Lhasa-4-day-itinerary

Lhasa 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

Morning

  • Arrive at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA) or take a train from Qinghai Province
  • Take a taxi or shuttle bus to your hotel in the city center (around ¥20-50)
  • Check-in at House of Shambhala or similar hotel

Afternoon

  • Visit Jokhang Temple (¥60), one of the most sacred temples in Tibet
  • Explore the surrounding streets and alleys, known as Barkhor Circuit (free)
  • Try some traditional Tibetan tea and snacks at a local café

Evening

  • Dine at Tashi Delek Restaurant for delicious Tibetan cuisine
  • Take a stroll around the city center to acclimate to the high altitude

Day 2: Lhasa’s Spiritual Heart

Morning

  • Visit Potala Palace (¥200), the former residence of the Dalai Lama and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Explore the palace’s many chapels, shrines, and gardens

Afternoon

  • Stop by Norbulingka Park (free), a beautiful garden and palace complex
  • Visit the nearby Tibet Museum (¥50) to learn about Tibetan history and culture

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Dunya Restaurant, serving international cuisine with a Tibetan twist
  • Watch a traditional Tibetan dance performance at Lhasa Cultural Palace (¥50-100)

Day 3: Monasteries and Markets

Morning

  • Visit Sera Monastery (¥55), one of the three largest monasteries in Lhasa
  • Witness the debating session among monks, a unique Tibetan tradition

Afternoon

  • Explore Lhasa’s Old Town (free) and its many markets, including the famous Barkhor Street
  • Browse through stalls selling traditional Tibetan items, such as handicrafts, jewelry, and incense

Evening

  • Dine at Snowland Restaurant, offering a mix of Tibetan and Chinese cuisine
  • Take a leisurely walk around the city to enjoy the evening atmosphere

Day 4: Namtso Lake and Yangbajain Hot Springs

Morning

  • Drive to Namtso Lake (¥150, including transportation and entrance fee), one of Tibet’s most beautiful lakes
  • Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and take a short hike around the lake

Afternoon

  • Visit Yangbajain Hot Springs (¥50), a popular spot for locals and tourists alike
  • Relax in the natural hot springs and enjoy the surrounding landscape

Evening

  • Return to Lhasa and celebrate your last evening with dinner at Lhasa Kitchen, serving international cuisine
  • Reflect on your incredible experiences in Lhasa and prepare for departure

Transportation

  • Taxi: ¥20-50 within the city center
  • Shuttle bus: ¥10-20 from the airport to the city center
  • Private car and driver: ¥500-800 per day, book through a local tour agency or hotel

Tips and Essentials

  • Altitude Sickness: Take it easy for the first few days, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activities.
  • Permits: Ensure you have all necessary permits and documents before traveling to Tibet.
  • Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly, remove your shoes when entering temples or monasteries, and avoid public displays of affection.
  • Language: Mandarin Chinese and Tibetan are the main languages spoken in Lhasa; some locals may speak English.
  • Currency: Chinese yuan (¥) is the local currency; credit cards are not widely accepted.

Other Things of Interest

  • Lhasa River: Take a stroll along the riverbank for scenic views and a glimpse into local life.
  • Tibetan Opera: Catch a performance at Lhasa Cultural Palace or other venues.
  • Local Markets: Visit the various markets, such as the Beijing Road Market, for a taste of local commerce.

Remember to plan your trip according to your physical condition and the altitude of Lhasa. Enjoy your time in this incredible city!