Lhasa, Tibet-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa and Acclimatization

Morning

  • Arrive at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA) or take an overnight bus from Shigatse
  • Transfer to your hotel and rest for a few hours to acclimate to the high altitude (3,650 meters)
  • Visit the nearby Norbulingka Palace, the former summer residence of the Dalai Lama

Afternoon

  • Explore the Barkhor Street, a sacred circuit around the Jokhang Temple lined with shops, restaurants, and street vendors
  • Visit the Jokhang Temple, one of the most sacred temples in Tibet and a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Evening

  • Dine at Tashi Delek Restaurant, serving traditional Tibetan cuisine
  • Stay at House of Shambhala Hotel or similar, located in the heart of Lhasa

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for altitude sickness; drink plenty of water and take it easy on the first day
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples and monasteries

Transportation

  • Take a taxi or hire a private car with a driver for the day (approx. ¥200-300)

Day 2: Lhasa’s Iconic Landmarks

Morning

  • Visit Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama and a UNESCO World Heritage Site (open from 10 am to 4 pm)
  • Explore the palace’s many chapels, halls, and gardens

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Tibet Museum, showcasing Tibetan history, culture, and art
  • Visit the Sera Monastery, one of the three largest monasteries in Lhasa (open from 9 am to 4 pm)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Lhasa Kitchen, serving a mix of Tibetan and Chinese cuisine
  • Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening

Tips

  • Apply for a permit to visit Potala Palace in advance, as the number of visitors is limited
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions

Day 3: Monasteries and Nunneries

Morning

  • Visit Drepung Monastery, one of the three largest monasteries in Lhasa (open from 9 am to 4 pm)
  • Explore the monastery’s many chapels, halls, and gardens

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Ani Tsankhung Nunnery, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Lhasa
  • Visit the Tibetan Opera House, showcasing traditional Tibetan music and dance performances (optional)

Evening

  • Dine at Snowland Restaurant, serving a mix of Tibetan, Chinese, and Western cuisine
  • Enjoy a relaxing evening stroll around Barkhor Street

Transportation

  • Take a taxi or hire a private car with a driver for the day (approx. ¥200-300)

Day 4: Day Trip to Namtso Lake

Morning

  • Drive to Namtso Lake, one of the highest saltwater lakes in the world ( approx. 250 km, 4 hours)
  • Take in the breathtaking scenery and enjoy a picnic lunch

Afternoon

  • Explore the lake’s shores and surrounding hills
  • Return to Lhasa in the evening

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Gyantse Restaurant, serving traditional Tibetan cuisine
  • Stay overnight at House of Shambhala Hotel or similar

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for a long drive on rough roads; bring snacks, water, and sunscreen
  • Respect local customs and avoid taking pictures of people or monasteries without permission

Day 5: Departure from Lhasa

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Visit the Lhasa Old Town, with its narrow alleys and traditional Tibetan architecture

Afternoon

  • Transfer to Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA) for your departure flight
  • Alternatively, take an overnight bus to Shigatse or other destinations in Tibet

Tips

  • Double-check your flight itinerary and airport transfer arrangements
  • Bring a copy of your travel permit and hotel reservation when departing Lhasa