6-Day Trip to Tibet: Temples, Monasteries & Majestic Scenery

Summary

Day1 Lhasa Arrival
Day2 Lhasa: Drepung Monastery, Norbulingka Park, Sera Monastery
Day3 Lhasa: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Nunnery
Day4 Lhasa-Gyangtse-Shigatse by Car: Yamdrok Yumtso Lake, Karola Glacier, Gyangtse Old Street, Palcho Monastery, Kumbum Stupa
Day5 Shigatse-Lhasa by Car: Pala Manor, Tashilhunpo Monastery
Day6 Lhasa Departure

Day1 Lhasa Arrival

Upon your arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport, our local Lhasa tour guide will greet you at the exit with a welcome sign "Your Way Holiday" and escort you to your hotel directly. Our guide will assist you with the check-in process. Please note that Lhasa is at a high altitude, and we recommend taking it easy on your first day to allow your body time to acclimate. Avoid strenuous activities and stay hydrated for a smoother adjustment to the altitude.

Day2 Lhasa

As the sun rises over the majestic Tibetan Plateau, your day of exploration in Lhasa begins. After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, our knowledgeable local guide will meet you in the lobby and accompany you on a journey through Tibetan Buddhism and history. The first stop of the day is Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in Tibet and a vital center of Buddhist learning. Nestled against the rugged mountainside, the monastery’s whitewashed buildings gleam under the crisp morning light. As you step through its ancient gates, your guide will share fascinating stories about its founding in 1416 and its role in training generations of Dalai Lamas. Strolling through the prayer halls, you’ll witness monks engaged in their daily rituals, chanting sutras that echo through the corridors. Your guide will point out intricate thangkas, golden statues, and sacred relics, explaining their significance in Tibetan Buddhism. As you ascend the monastery's stone steps, a breathtaking panoramic view of Lhasa unfolds, offering a perfect moment for reflection and photography.

Leaving Drepung Monastery, you’ll head to Norbulingka Park, a serene retreat that once served as the summer palace of the Dalai Lamas. Unlike the imposing monasteries, Norbulingka is a lush, green oasis, adorned with vibrant flowers, willow trees, and tranquil ponds. Your guide will lead you through its beautifully preserved pavilions and halls, narrating the stories of past Dalai Lamas who once resided here. As you walk through intricately painted corridors, you’ll gain insight into the fusion of Tibetan and Chinese architectural styles that make this UNESCO-listed site so unique. Taking a moment to relax by the lotus-filled ponds, you’ll feel the peaceful contrast between the bustling city and this hidden paradise. The scent of fresh greenery and blooming flowers fills the air, adding to the tranquil atmosphere of this sacred retreat. Your guide will also introduce you to the symbolic meanings behind the murals and furnishings, making history come alive through vivid storytelling.

At midday, you’ll take a break to enjoy a traditional Tibetan lunch at a local restaurant. Your guide will help you navigate the menu, offering recommendations for authentic dishes such as tsampa (roasted barley flour), thenthuk (hand-pulled noodle soup), and the famous yak butter tea, a staple of Tibetan hospitality. As you dine, your guide will explain the cultural significance of these dishes and how they sustain locals in the high-altitude environment. This meal provides a perfect opportunity to discuss your experiences so far and ask any questions about Tibetan customs, traditions, and daily life. The warm and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant, combined with your guide’s insights, will make for a memorable cultural immersion.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the renowned Sera Monastery, one of Tibet’s great monastic institutions, famous for its lively monk debates. As you step through the monastery’s entrance, the air is thick with the scent of burning butter lamps, and the rhythmic sounds of chanting monks fill the halls. Your guide will lead you through its grand assembly halls, where towering Buddha statues and ancient scriptures line the walls. One of the highlights of your visit will be witnessing the Monastic Debates, held in the monastery’s courtyard. Here, young monks engage in animated philosophical discussions, clapping their hands and gesturing passionately as they challenge each other's interpretations of Buddhist teachings. Your guide will provide context on the debate structure and its role in shaping a monk’s education. Watching this centuries-old tradition unfold will be an unforgettable experience, offering a deeper appreciation for Tibetan monastic life.

As the day comes to an end, your guide will accompany you back to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable return. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to reflect on the day’s experiences, from the spiritual grandeur of Drepung Monastery to the tranquil beauty of Norbulingka and the intellectual rigor of Sera’s debating monks. If you have any lingering questions about Tibetan culture, history, or customs, your guide will be more than happy to share insights. Once at your hotel, you can unwind and acclimate further to the high-altitude environment, perhaps enjoying a warm cup of butter tea as you review the incredible photos and memories made throughout the day.

Day3 Lhasa

As the first rays of sunlight illuminate the towering Potala Palace, your day of exploration begins. After breakfast, our expert local guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you on this cultural journey through the heart of Lhasa. Your first destination is Potala Palace, Tibet’s most iconic landmark, standing majestically at 3,750 meters above sea level. As you ascend the winding stone steps, your guide will introduce you to the history of this UNESCO-listed site, once the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. Inside, you’ll marvel at grand halls adorned with intricate murals, golden stupas enshrining past Dalai Lamas, and chambers filled with ancient scriptures. Your guide will share insights into the palace’s construction, explaining how it was built to symbolize the spiritual and political power of Tibetan Buddhism. From the palace’s upper levels, a breathtaking view of Lhasa unfolds, offering a perfect opportunity for reflection and photography before heading to the next stop.

Descending from Potala Palace, you will continue to the revered Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet. Located in the bustling old town, this 7th-century temple houses the most sacred statue of Jowo Rinpoche, a life-sized depiction of Buddha at age twelve, believed to have been blessed by the Buddha himself. Your guide will explain the deep religious significance of this temple, where pilgrims from across Tibet prostrate themselves in devotion, some having traveled thousands of kilometers on foot. As you step inside, the air is thick with the scent of burning yak butter lamps, and the sound of low chanting resonates through the dimly lit corridors. Your guide will point out the exquisite wood carvings and centuries-old murals that depict scenes from Buddhist scriptures. Watching the faithful circumambulate the temple clockwise, spinning prayer wheels and whispering mantras, you will feel the profound spirituality that defines this sacred space.

After a morning immersed in history and devotion, it’s time to enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local Tibetan restaurant. Your guide will help you navigate the menu, recommending traditional dishes such as shou zhua yak meat (hand-grabbed yak meat) and tudou baozi (potato-stuffed steamed buns). The tender, slow-cooked yak meat is served in large chunks, meant to be eaten by hand, offering a rich, savory taste that embodies the essence of Tibetan cuisine. Complementing this is the soft, flavorful potato-stuffed baozi, a local specialty that combines the heartiness of Tibetan potatoes with a delicate, fluffy bun. As you savor these authentic flavors, your guide will share fascinating insights into Tibetan food traditions, explaining how these dishes sustain locals in the high-altitude environment. Accompanied by a warm cup of yak butter tea, this immersive dining experience provides not just a delicious break but also a deeper understanding of daily life on the plateau.

With renewed energy, your journey continues to Barkhor Street, the vibrant marketplace that encircles Jokhang Temple. This ancient pilgrimage route is lined with shops selling prayer beads, thangkas (Tibetan paintings), incense, and handcrafted jewelry. As you walk through the bustling crowds, your guide will highlight the cultural and religious significance of this area, where locals and pilgrims alike perform the sacred kora (circumambulation) around Jokhang Temple. The rhythmic murmurs of prayer, the fluttering of colorful prayer flags, and the rich aroma of incense create an immersive atmosphere. Along the way, you will witness devoted pilgrims prostrating themselves in full-body bows, performing the traditional "long kowtow" as they make their way around the temple, a powerful display of faith and perseverance. Your guide will assist you in bargaining for souvenirs, explaining the meanings behind various artifacts and their roles in Tibetan Buddhist rituals. This is also the perfect place to capture the essence of Lhasa’s daily life, from monks deep in conversation to nomads selling rare herbs and traditional Tibetan textiles.

In the late afternoon, you will visit a Tibetan Nunnery, a place of tranquility and devotion often overlooked by tourists. Unlike the grand monasteries, the nunnery offers a more intimate glimpse into the lives of Tibetan Buddhist nuns. As you enter the peaceful courtyard, the gentle hum of chanting fills the air, and you may witness nuns engaged in prayer, scripture study, or making traditional Tibetan incense. Your guide will share stories of how these women dedicate their lives to spiritual practice, explaining the differences between monastic life for monks and nuns. You may even have the chance to observe a debate session, where the nuns engage in lively philosophical discussions, much like their male counterparts in the monasteries. This visit provides a rare opportunity to appreciate the resilience and devotion of Tibetan Buddhist practitioners in a serene and contemplative setting.

As the sun begins to set over the rooftops of Lhasa, your guide will accompany you back to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable return. Along the way, you’ll have time to reflect on the day’s journey, from the awe-inspiring heights of Potala Palace to the spiritual heart of Jokhang Temple, the bustling Barkhor Street, and the serene atmosphere of the nunnery. If you have any final questions about Tibetan culture or customs, your guide will be happy to share additional insights. Once at your hotel, you can unwind, perhaps sipping on a warm cup of butter tea, as you reminisce about the unforgettable experiences of the day.

Day4 Lhasa-Gyangtse-Shigatse by Car

As the morning sun casts a golden glow over Lhasa, your day of exploration begins. After breakfast, your experienced guide and driver will meet you at your hotel for an unforgettable journey across Tibet’s stunning landscapes. Your first destination is the breathtaking Yamdrok Yumtso Lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes. As you ascend the winding mountain roads, your guide will share the legends surrounding this turquoise gem, believed to be the lifeblood of Tibet. Upon reaching the viewing platform, the lake’s surreal blue waters stretch endlessly beneath snow-capped peaks, creating a scene of pure tranquility. Your guide will help you find the best vantage points for photography while explaining the spiritual significance of the lake to Tibetan pilgrims. As you breathe in the crisp mountain air, watching yaks graze along the shore, you’ll feel the profound serenity that makes Yamdrok Yumtso such a revered place.

Continuing the journey, you will drive toward the Karola Glacier, a magnificent sight along the Sino-Nepal highway. The towering glacier, with its jagged ice formations and shimmering white expanse, is one of Tibet’s most accessible glaciers. As you step out of the vehicle, the sheer scale of Karola Glacier becomes apparent, with ice cascading down from over 5,000 meters above sea level. Your guide will explain the science behind the glacier’s formation, its gradual retreat due to climate change, and its significance to local Tibetan nomads. The contrast between the icy blue glacier and the rugged brown mountains surrounding it creates a striking visual spectacle. Take your time to absorb the awe-inspiring landscape, and let your guide assist in capturing stunning photographs that preserve this unforgettable moment.

After a morning of breathtaking scenery, it's time to stop for a hearty Tibetan-style lunch at a local restaurant. Your guide will assist in ordering a selection of flavorful stir-fried dishes, a contrast to the usual high-altitude cuisine. Enjoy sizzling plates of stir-fried yak meat with vegetables, fragrant Tibetan-style eggplant, and spicy potato stir-fry, all paired with steamed rice. As you savor the bold flavors, your guide will introduce you to Tibetan culinary traditions and how local ingredients are adapted to the harsh plateau environment. This meal offers a perfect opportunity to rest and discuss the cultural experiences of the day, preparing you for the afternoon’s adventures.

Refreshed from lunch, you’ll continue your journey toward Gyangtse County, where your first stop will be Gyangtse Old Street, a charming town that reflects Tibet’s history and resilience. Walking through its narrow alleyways, lined with traditional Tibetan houses and prayer wheels, you’ll feel transported to an earlier era. Your guide will explain how Gyangtse was once an important trade hub along the ancient route connecting Tibet with India and Nepal. The well-preserved architecture, from stone-paved streets to elaborately decorated window frames, tells a story of cultural fusion. As you stroll through the marketplace, you’ll see vendors selling Tibetan handicrafts, prayer beads, and traditional woolen robes, offering a perfect opportunity to pick up a unique souvenir. As you wander, you may encounter artisans crafting prayer flags or locals spinning prayer wheels, deep in meditation. The slow, unhurried pace of life here contrasts with bustling Lhasa, offering a rare glimpse into an authentic Tibetan town.

The journey then takes you to the Palcho Monastery, a unique site blending three major sects of Tibetan Buddhism. Unlike most monasteries, which belong to a single sect, Palcho Monastery harmoniously houses the Gelug, Sakya, and Kagyu traditions under one roof. Your guide will lead you through its grand assembly hall, where monks sit in deep prayer amid the scent of burning butter lamps. The monastery’s architectural beauty, with intricate murals and towering golden roofs, is a testament to Tibet’s rich artistic heritage. Within Palcho Monastery stands the magnificent Kumbum Stupa, the largest and most well-preserved stupa in Tibet. Climbing its nine tiers, you’ll explore dozens of chapels filled with exquisite Buddhist statues and ancient frescoes. Your guide will explain the symbolic meaning behind each level of the stupa, representing the stages of enlightenment in Buddhist philosophy. From the top, a stunning panoramic view of Gyangtse and its surrounding valleys awaits.

As the day comes to a close, you’ll continue your journey to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. Your guide will ensure a smooth check-in at your hotel, providing recommendations for evening leisure activities or local specialties to try for dinner. The drive offers a final chance to soak in the breathtaking plateau landscapes, with golden fields, meandering rivers, and distant mountain ranges stretching into the horizon. Upon arrival, you can unwind, reflecting on a day filled with spiritual wonders, cultural discoveries, and awe-inspiring scenery. With the guidance of your expert local companion, every moment of this journey has been enriched with deeper meaning, making for an unforgettable Tibetan experience.

Day5 Shigatse-Lhasa by Car

As the morning sun rises over Shigatse, your journey into Tibet’s rich history and spiritual heritage begins. After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at the hotel and take you to Pala Manor, a well-preserved aristocratic estate offering a glimpse into Tibet’s feudal past. The manor’s traditional Tibetan-style architecture, with whitewashed walls and intricately painted window frames, reflects the power of noble families in old Tibet. Walking through its many rooms, your guide will explain how the Pala family, one of Tibet’s wealthiest aristocrats, once lived in luxury while their serfs toiled on the land. From opulent living quarters adorned with fine furniture and silk to the stark contrast of simple, dimly lit servant rooms, the manor tells a compelling story of Tibet’s past. Your guide will share fascinating insights, helping you connect the grandeur of history with Tibet’s modern transformation.

After a morning of historical and spiritual exploration, it’s time to enjoy a traditional Tibetan hot pot in Shigatse. Your guide will take you to a local restaurant, where a steaming pot of rich, flavorful broth is set at the center of the table, surrounded by fresh ingredients. You’ll savor tender yak meat, a staple of Tibetan cuisine, along with mushrooms, locally grown vegetables, and handmade tofu, all cooked to perfection in the bubbling broth. As you dip each ingredient into the fragrant soup, your guide will explain the cultural significance of Tibetan hot pot, a warming and communal dish perfect for the plateau’s cold climate. Accompanied by sweet Tibetan milk tea, this hearty meal provides both warmth and energy, making it the perfect way to recharge before the afternoon’s journey. Over lunch, your guide will share stories about Tibetan culinary traditions, adding a layer of cultural depth to this delicious experience.

Next, you will visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the most important monastery in Shigatse and the seat of the Panchen Lama, Tibet’s second-highest religious figure. The moment you step inside, the towering golden rooftops and crimson walls exude an aura of sacredness and grandeur. Your guide will lead you through the grand courtyards and intricate prayer halls, explaining the monastery’s history since its founding in 1447 by the first Dalai Lama. The highlight of the visit is the Maitreya Buddha Hall, where the world’s largest gilded statue of Maitreya Buddha sits at an astounding 26 meters high. As you gaze upon the magnificent craftsmanship, your guide will explain the spiritual significance of this future Buddha in Tibetan Buddhism. Walking through the monastery’s dimly lit corridors, where the scent of yak butter lamps lingers in the air, you’ll witness monks engaged in prayer and debate. Your guide will help you understand the monastery’s role in preserving Tibetan Buddhist teachings and traditions, making your visit a deeply enriching experience.

In the afternoon, you will embark on the return journey to Lhasa, a scenic drive that takes you through the vast landscapes of the Tibetan plateau. Along the way, your guide will point out nomadic herders tending to their yaks, prayer flags fluttering on mountain passes, and the occasional roadside shrine where pilgrims stop to pay their respects. As you gaze out at the rolling hills and distant snow-capped peaks, your guide will share insights into the deep spiritual connection Tibetans have with their land. This long but visually stunning drive offers a final chance to take in Tibet’s breathtaking scenery before arriving in Lhasa in the evening. Once you reach your hotel, your guide will ensure a smooth check-in and offer recommendations for a relaxing evening, bringing your memorable journey through Shigatse to a perfect close.

Day6 Lhasa Departure

As your unforgettable journey through Tibet comes to an end, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel for a smooth transfer to Lhasa Gonggar Airport or the train station, ensuring a hassle-free departure. Along the way, take one last look at the breathtaking landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau, from rolling hills to distant snow-capped peaks, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past days. From exploring the grand Potala Palace and the spiritual heart of Jokhang Temple to witnessing the serenity of Yamdrok Yumtso Lake and the cultural richness of Shigatse, this journey has offered a deep insight into Tibet’s history, spirituality, and stunning natural beauty. If you have any final questions or need assistance, your guide will be happy to help. Upon arrival at the airport or train station, your guide will assist with check-in and bid you farewell, wishing you a pleasant journey home and hoping to welcome you back to Tibet in the future. Safe travels!

Price Per Person in US Dollars