DESTINATION
Tibet
GRADE
Medium
START/END POINT
Lhasa / Lhasa
ACCOMODATION
3 Star Hotel
BEST SEASON
Throughout the year
MAX ALTITUDE
3,650 m at Lhasa
Trip Overview
This 5-day trip to Lhasa and its surroundings covers iconic historical sites like the Potala Palace, the Jokhang Temple, and the Barkhor Street in Lhasa city, as well as the greatest three monasteries of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, including Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery, and Ganden Monastery. Situated at an elevation of 3,800m above sea level, Ganden Monastery offers a great view of Lhasa Valley. You can also take a leisure hike around Ganden Monastery and explore the Great Tsongkapa’s meditation cave. Moreover, you will travel to the nearby Drak Yerpa Monastery to experience meditation in one of the ancient caves. If you are looking for an in-depth cultural and spiritual travel experience within a short trip in Tibet, don’t miss out on this trip.
Short Itinerary
| Day 1 |
Arrival in Lhasa |
| Day 2 |
Lhasa Tour - Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery (B, D) |
| Day 3 |
Lhasa Tour - Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street (B) |
| Day 4 |
Lhasa to Ganden Monastery & Drak Yerpa Monastery and back to Lhasa (B, L) |
| Day 5 |
Depart from Lhasa (B) |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Lhasa
Your journey begins with your arrival in Lhasa, the spiritual and cultural heart of Tibet, located at an altitude of 3,650 meters. Upon arrival by flight or train, you will be warmly welcomed by your Tibetan guide with a traditional Hada (ceremonial scarf), symbolizing good wishes and blessings. You will then be transferred to your hotel in downtown Lhasa while enjoying scenic views of the majestic Yarlung Tsangpo River and the Lhasa River. After checking in, the rest of the day is free to relax and acclimatize to the high altitude. Overnight stay in Lhasa.
Day 2 Lhasa Tour - Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery (B, D)
After breakfast, begin your exploration of Tibetan Buddhism with a visit to the famous Drepung Monastery, once home to more than 10,000 monks and one of the most important monasteries in Tibet. Here, you will learn about the teachings, philosophy, and daily life of Tibetan monks while exploring its grand halls and monastic colleges. In the afternoon, visit the renowned Sera Monastery, where you can witness the unique and fascinating Tibetan monks’ debate sessions, a traditional way monks study and discuss Buddhist philosophy. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with traditional Tibetan hospitality and cultural insights. Overnight stay in Lhasa.
Day 3 Lhasa Tour - Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street (B)
Today’s tour highlights the most iconic landmarks of Lhasa. Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas and one of Tibet’s most sacred architectural wonders. Inside the palace, you will see priceless Buddhist relics, sacred stupas, and ancient murals that tell the story of Tibetan history and religion. Afterward, visit Jokhang Temple, the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism where pilgrims from across Tibet gather to pray. You will also explore the vibrant Barkhor Street, a bustling marketplace where pilgrims perform the sacred kora around the temple while visitors can experience Tibetan culture, handicrafts, and local life. Overnight stay in Lhasa.
Day 4 Lhasa to Ganden Monastery & Drak Yerpa Monastery and back to Lhasa (B, L)
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from Lhasa to explore two remarkable monasteries. First visit Drak Yerpa Monastery, known for its sacred meditation caves once used by great spiritual masters such as Guru Padmasambhava and King Songtsen Gampo. Here, you may also enjoy a peaceful meditation experience while overlooking stunning mountain landscapes. Later, continue to Ganden Monastery, one of the “Great Three” monasteries of the Gelug school and founded by Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug tradition. Located atop a mountain ridge, the monastery offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. After completing a peaceful kora walk around the monastery, return to Lhasa for an overnight stay.
Day 5 Depart from Lhasa (B)
After breakfast, your Tibet journey comes to an end. Depending on your travel schedule, your guide will transfer you to the airport or railway station for your onward journey. As you depart from Lhasa, you will carry unforgettable memories of Tibet’s rich spiritual heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and the unique traditions of Tibetan culture.
Included in this trek package?
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Tibet Travel Permit and all required local travel documents for this tour (excluding expedited processing fees)
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Local tour transfers, 5-29 seats comfortable tourist vehicle according to the group size
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All entrance ticket fees for all tourist sites listed in the itinerary
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All meals listed in the itinerary
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Knowledgeable English-speaking Tibetan local tour guide shared in your group (For prices of tour guides in other languages, please inquire)
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All hotels listed in the itinerary or equivalent three-star hotels. Upgrades are available for an additional fee. (Single room supplement required when not sharing the room)
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Free shuttle between Lhasa Railway Station/Lhasa Gonggar Airport and the downtown hotel
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Service Charge & Government Taxes
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Arrangements including planning, handling, operational, and communication charges
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Tourist accident/casualty insurance
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Additional services include fine Tibetan souvenirs, a tourist map, portable oxygen, medical oxygen in the vehicle, bottled mineral water, and more.
Excluded in this trek package?
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China Visa (If you need visa assistance services, feel free to contact us for more details.)
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International flight to and out of China
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Domestic flight/train to and out of Lhasa (If you need us to book the domestic flight/train tickets, please contact us for the details.)
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Single Room Supplement: Hotels default to double occupancy with twin-bedded rooms. If you prefer a single room or room sharing isn't possible, a single room supplement is necessary. Please consult the travel consultant for specific pricing details.
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Meals not listed in the itinerary
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Tips for the guide and driver. If you are satisfied with their service, it is suggested to tip $7 (50 RMB) per day per person to be shared between the driver and the guide
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Other expenses caused by force majeure events (such as natural disasters, traffic control, loss of valuables, visa delays, flight delays or cancellations, etc.)
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Personal expenses, like laundry, phone calls, snacks, soft drinks (please do your best to avoid alcoholic beverages during your Tibet trip), optional tour activities, etc.
Official Map
14 Days US$ 1800
US$ 1350 PP
Group Discount Available
**Discounts are solely based on your group size. We do not add anyone to your group.
| No. of Persons | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| 2 - 3 Pax | US$ 1350 |
| 4 - 7 Pax | US$ 1300 |
| 8 - 13 Pax | US$ 1250 |
| 14 - 21 Pax | US$ 1200 |
| 22 - 30 Pax | US$ 1160 |