Tibet-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa

Places to Visit:

  • Potala Palace: The former residence of the Dalai Lama and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (~8am - 10am)
  • Jokhang Temple: One of Tibet’s holiest sites, built over 1300 years ago and famous for its golden roof.
  • Barkhor Street: A bustling market street with shops selling traditional Tibetan goods.

Activities:

  • Acclimatize to the high altitude (3600m) by taking a short walk around Potala Palace or exploring Jokhang Temple’s surroundings.
  • Practice your negotiation skills while shopping at Barkhor Street for local handicrafts and snacks.

Things to Know:

  • Altitude Sickness: Take necessary precautions, such as drinking plenty of water and avoiding strenuous activities during the first day.
  • Dress Code: Respect local customs by wearing modest clothing (no shorts or tank tops) when visiting temples.
  • Language Barrier: While many Tibetans speak basic Mandarin, English is not widely spoken. Carry a phrasebook or use a translation app.

Visa Requirements:

  • Obtain a Chinese visa before arriving in Tibet. Recommended to have a “T” tourist visa specifically designed for travel to the Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR).
  • Some travel agencies and tour operators can help facilitate the visa application process.

Transportation:

  • Airport Pickup: Arrange with your hotel or tour operator for a pick-up from Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA).
  • Local Transportation: Use taxis, buses, or walk to get around Lhasa. Be aware that traffic in the city can be unpredictable due to the high altitude.

Other Tips:

  • Bring a portable oxygen tank if you’re particularly concerned about altitude sickness.
  • Respect local regulations and rules when taking photographs of sensitive areas (such as military installations).

Day 2: Exploring Lhasa

Places to Visit:

  • Norbu Linka Palace: A palace built for the Dalai Lama’s family, showcasing traditional Tibetan architecture. (~9am - 11am)
  • Sera Monastery: One of Tibet’s largest monasteries and a hub for Buddhist studies.
  • Ganden Sumtseling Monastery: Famous for its stunning views of Lhasa and a collection of ancient scriptures.

Activities:

  • Participate in a traditional Tibetan tea ceremony at Norbu Linka Palace.
  • Attend a prayer session or monk debate at Sera Monastery (weather permitting).

Things to Know:

  • Time-Table: Be prepared for early starts as most monasteries open between 8am and 9am.
  • Respect Local Customs: Wear suitable clothing, remove shoes when entering temples, and avoid disturbing monks during prayer sessions.

Visa Requirements:

(No changes from Day 1)

Transportation:

(No changes from Day 1)

Day 3: Day Trip to Namtso Lake (optional)

Places to Visit:

  • Namtso Lake: A stunning high-altitude lake (4718m), often referred to as the “Heavenly Lake.” (~9am - 6pm)
  • Tashi Dor Monastery: Located near Namtso Lake, this small monastery offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Activities:

  • Take a guided tour around Namtso Lake and Tashi Dor Monastery.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch with panoramic views of the lake.

Things to Know:

  • Altitude: Be prepared for even higher altitudes at Namtso Lake (4718m).
  • Weather Conditions: Check weather forecasts before visiting, as high winds or storms may occur unexpectedly.

Visa Requirements:

(No changes from Day 1)

Transportation:

  • Hire a car and driver from Lhasa to Namtso Lake (~5 hours each way) or join a guided tour that includes transportation.
  • Be aware of possible road closures due to weather conditions.

Other Tips:

  • Bring warm clothing, sunscreen, and a camera with you on this day trip.
  • Practice your Tibetan dialect by ordering local snacks or drinks during the journey!