Lhasa 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Lhasa, Tibet

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa

  • Arrive at Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station. Due to the high altitude (3,650 meters), it’s essential to rest and acclimatize.
  • Check-in at your hotel. I recommend staying in the Barkhor Area, near Jokhang Temple, for easy access to major attractions.
  • Take a leisurely stroll around the Barkhor Street. This traditional Tibetan street is filled with vibrant shops and pilgrims circumambulating the Jokhang Temple.

Day 2: Explore Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Area

  • Visit Jokhang Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 7th century, is the spiritual center of Tibet.
  • Explore the surrounding Barkhor Area. Visit Sera Monastery, known for its debating monks, and Norbulingka Palace, the summer residence of the Dalai Lama.
  • Evening meal at a local restaurant. Try authentic Tibetan dishes like Tsampa (roasted barley flour), Yak Stew, and Momo (Tibetan dumplings).

Day 3: Potala Palace and Norbulingka Palace

  • Morning visit to the Potala Palace. This iconic palace was the winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Be prepared for a lot of walking!
  • Afternoon tour of Norbulingka Palace. Explore the lush gardens and ornate halls of this summer residence.
  • Dinner at Kunga’s Restaurant. Enjoy traditional Tibetan food in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Day 4: Visit Drepung Monastery and Ganden Monastery (Day trip)

  • Early morning departure to Drepung Monastery. This was once the largest monastery in the world, housing over 10,000 monks.
  • Afternoon visit to Ganden Monastery. Perched atop Wangbur Mountain, it offers stunning views of the valley below.
  • Return to Lhasa and rest.

Day 5: Explore Tibetan Culture and Shopping

  • Morning visit to a Traditional Tibetan Medicine Hospital. Learn about traditional Tibetan medicine practices.
  • Afternoon shopping at the Tibetan Handicraft Center. Purchase souvenirs such as Thangka paintings, traditional clothing, and local handicrafts.
  • Dinner at Shabu House. Enjoy a hot pot meal, a popular dish in Tibet.

Day 6: Visit Yamdrok Lake and Gyantse (Day trip)

  • Early morning departure to Yamdrok Lake. This stunning turquoise lake is one of the three holiest lakes in Tibet.
  • Continue to Gyantse. Explore the Pelkor Chode Monastery and the Gyantse Fortress.
  • Return to Lhasa and rest.

Day 7: Departure from Lhasa

  • Check-out from your hotel.
  • Transfer to Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station for your departure.

Tips:

  • Bring a good quality sunscreen and sunglasses as the sunlight in Lhasa can be strong.
  • Stay hydrated due to the high altitude.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Learn a few basic Tibetan phrases to help with communication.
  • Book your travel arrangements well in advance, as many tourists visit Lhasa every year.
  • Enjoy your trip to Lhasa!