Tibet-7-day-itinerary
Tibet Travel Itinerary (7 Days)
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa
Places to Go:
- Potala Palace: The former residence of the Dalai Lama. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Activities:
- Acclimatize to high altitude (3,650 meters)
- Explore Jokhang Temple and surrounding areas
Things to Know:
- Start taking Diamox tablets (altitude sickness prevention) if prescribed by your doctor
- Be prepared for crowds at Potala Palace; book tickets in advance if possible
Day 2: Lhasa Exploration
Places to Go:
- Jokhang Temple: The most revered temple in Tibet. Home of the statue of Jowo Sakyamuni.
- Namtso Lake (optional, a day trip from Lhasa): A sacred lake with stunning scenery.
Activities:
- Visit Namtso Lake for its serene beauty and spiritual significance
- Explore Barkhor Street, a pilgrimage path around Jokhang Temple
Things to Know:
- Respect local customs at Jokhang Temple; dress modestly and remove shoes when required
- Be prepared for long walks on rough paths if visiting Namtso Lake
Day 3: Shigatse and Tashilhunpo Monastery
Places to Go:
- Tashilhunpo Monastery: The largest functioning monastery in Tibet.
Activities:
- Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery for its rich history and religious significance
- Explore the town of Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet
Things to Know:
- Be respectful at the monastery; dress modestly and avoid flash photography
- Bargain when shopping in local markets for souvenirs
Day 4: Gyantse and Norbulingka Palace
Places to Go:
- Norbulingka Palace: The former summer palace of the Dalai Lama. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Activities:
- Visit Norbulingka Palace for its historical significance and beautiful architecture
- Explore the town of Gyantse, known for its fort (Dzong)
Things to Know:
- Be prepared for a long drive from Shigatse to Gyantse
- Respect local customs at the palace; dress modestly
Day 5: Namtso Lake (if not visited on Day 2) or Yamdrok Lake
Places to Go:
- Yamdrok Lake: A scenic lake known for its beauty and spiritual significance.
Activities:
- Visit either Namtso or Yamdrok Lake for their serene natural beauty
- Enjoy a picnic lunch with breathtaking views
Things to Know:
- Be prepared for long drives on rough roads if visiting lakes as day trips
- Respect local customs; dress modestly
Day 6: Explore Lhasa
Places to Go:
- Pabonka Monastery: A monastery famous for its murals depicting the history of Tibet.
Activities:
- Visit Pabonka Monastery for its unique paintings and spiritual significance
- Continue exploring Lhasa, possibly visiting markets or other attractions not yet seen
Things to Know:
- Be prepared for crowds; dress modestly as a sign of respect
- Try local Tibetan cuisine at one of the many restaurants in Lhasa
Day 7: Departure from Lhasa
Activities:
- Last-minute shopping: Pick up any last-minute souvenirs or gifts.
Things to Know:
- Make sure to have all necessary documents (passport, visa, tickets) ready for departure
- Be prepared to say goodbye to the breathtaking landscapes of Tibet.
Visa Requirements:
- For citizens of certain countries, a pre-arranged visa is required. Check with your local Chinese embassy or consulate.
- Consider hiring a guide who can assist with paperwork and logistics.
Transportation:
- Flying: Domestic flights from Lhasa to other parts of Tibet are an option but may not be available daily.
- Driving/Riding: Use of private cars, taxis, and motorbikes is common. Be prepared for long drives on rough roads.
- Walking/Trekking: Many tourists prefer trekking or walking as a way to experience the natural beauty of Tibet.
Additional Tips:
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
- Try to learn some basic Tibetan phrases as a sign of respect for the culture.
- Be prepared for altitude sickness; take necessary precautions if advised by your doctor.