Lhasa 4 Day Itinerary

Lhasa 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Acclimatization

Places to Go

  • Potala Palace: The iconic symbol of Lhasa and Tibet, this palace was the winter residence of the Dalai Lama. (Ticket Price: ~CNY 95)
  • Jokhang Temple: One of the oldest and most sacred temples in Tibet, built in the 7th century. (Entrance Fee: ~CNY 80)

Activities

  • Explore Barkhor Street: A bustling market area surrounding Jokhang Temple where you can shop for souvenirs or try local food.
  • Visit Drepung Monastery (Afternoon): The largest monastery in the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism, located on a hill south of Lhasa. (Entrance Fee: ~CNY 80)

Where to Eat

  • Kung Fu Kitchen: Try authentic Tibetan dishes like Thukpa and Momo. Address: No.76 Yonghe East Road, Chengguan District, Lhasa.
  • Songtsam CafĂ©: Offers a variety of Tibetan and Western food. Address: 35 Zhongyang South Road, Chengguan District, Lhasa.

Where to Stay

  • Lhasa Paradise Hotel*: A popular choice with comfortable rooms, good service, and convenient location. Address: No.6 Zhongyang South Road, Chengguan District, Lhasa.
  • Songtsam Hotel*: Luxury hotel located in the heart of Lhasa offering stunning views of Potala Palace. Address: 35 Zhongyang South Road, Chengguan District, Lhasa.

Things to Know

  • Altitude sickness is common in Lhasa due to its high elevation (~3650m). Drink plenty of water and rest if needed.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting monasteries and temples. Dress modestly and remove your shoes when entering sacred sites.

Day 2: Norbulingka & Sera Monastery

Places to Go

  • Norbulingka Park: The summer palace of the Dalai Lama, featuring traditional Tibetan architecture and gardens. (Entrance Fee: ~CNY 65)
  • Sera Monastery (Afternoon): Known for its monk debates which take place daily at around 3 pm. (Entrance Fee: ~CNY 80)

Where to Eat

  • Lhasa Restaurant: Offers a range of Tibetan and Chinese dishes, with good service. Address: No.18 Qingnian Road, Chengguan District, Lhasa.
  • Tibet Kitchen: A local favorite with delicious food and a cozy atmosphere. Address: No.32 Yonghe East Road, Chengguan District, Lhasa.

Day 3: Yamdrok Lake & Gyantse

Transportation

  • Rent a car or join a group tour to visit Yamdrok Lake and Gyantse. The journey takes about 2 hours each way.

Places to Go

  • Yamdrok Lake: One of the three holy lakes in Tibet, offering stunning views of the turquoise waters and surrounding mountains.
  • Pelkor Chode Monastery & Gyantse Kumbum Stupa: Visit these historic sites in the town of Gyantse. (Entrance Fees: ~CNY 80 for both)

Where to Eat

  • Tashi’s Restaurant: A popular spot with good food and beautiful views of Yamdrok Lake. Address: Next to the Police Station, near Yamdrok Lake.

Day 4: Departure

Things to Know

  • Check out from your hotel and spend the morning at leisure, exploring any remaining sights or shopping for souvenirs.
  • Make sure to leave plenty of time to get to Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA) for your flight. The drive takes approximately 1-1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
  • It’s a good idea to have some small denominations of Chinese Yuan for tips and small purchases.