Tibet 6 Day Itinerary

Tibet Itinerary: 6 Days of High-Altitude Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa (3,650m)

  • Morning: Arrive at Gonggar Airport or take an overnight bus from Chengdu/Shangri-La
  • Afternoon: Acclimatize to the high altitude by exploring Lhasa’s old town, visiting the Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Tibetan cuisine and tea at a local restaurant

Day 2: Lhasa City Tour

  • Morning: Visit the Potala Palace, former residence of the Dalai Lama
  • Afternoon: Explore the Sera Monastery, famous for its debating monks
  • Evening: Take a stroll around the Norbulingka Park, a beautiful royal garden

Day 3: Lhasa to Namtso Lake (4,718m)

  • Morning: Drive to Namtso Lake, one of Tibet’s most sacred lakes
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a scenic hike around the lake or take a boat ride (optional)
  • Evening: Camp overnight near the lake and enjoy stargazing

Day 4: Namtso Lake to Shigatse (3,900m)

  • Morning: Drive back to Lhasa and continue to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city
  • Afternoon: Visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery, home of the Panchen Lama
  • Evening: Explore Shigatse’s old town and try some local street food

Day 5: Shigatse to Gyantse (3,950m)

  • Morning: Drive to Gyantse, a charming town known for its stunning valley views
  • Afternoon: Visit the Pelkor Chode Monastery and explore the old town
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Tibetan music and dance at a local cultural show

Day 6: Departure from Lhasa

  • Morning: Drive back to Lhasa ( approx. 3 hours) for your departure flight or bus ride

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: Tibet Travel Permit, Chinese visa, and other permits required
  • Altitude Sickness: Take necessary precautions and consult a doctor before traveling
  • Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly, remove shoes when entering monasteries, and avoid sensitive topics like politics

Transportation

  • Flights: Book in advance to ensure availability
  • Buses: Overnight buses available from Chengdu/Shangri-La
  • Private Cars: Hire a car with a driver for flexibility and convenience

Other Tips

  • Currency: Chinese yuan (RMB) widely accepted; Tibetan currency not commonly used
  • Language: Mandarin Chinese, Tibetan languages; many locals speak some English
  • Weather: Pack layers for cold mornings and evenings; sun protection essential during the day
  • Accommodation: Book hotels or guesthouses in advance, especially during peak season

Responsible Travel

  • Environmental Impact: Respect Tibet’s fragile ecosystem and minimize waste
  • Support Local Communities: Engage with local guides, eat at family-run restaurants, and purchase handicrafts directly from artisans