Lhasa China 4 Day Itinerary

Lhasa, Tibet: 4-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Acclimatization

  • Arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport: Welcome to the roof of the world! After clearing customs and immigration, you can arrange a taxi or book a private car service to your hotel.
  • Hotel Check-in (Lhasa Hotel or similar): Prepare for the high altitude (3,650 meters/12,000 feet). Rest and acclimatize to prevent altitude sickness.
  • Dinner at Kung Fu Kafe (Tibetan & Western cuisine): A popular restaurant located in Barkhor Street, offering a variety of delicious dishes.
  • Evening Walk around Barkhor Street: Explore this traditional Tibetan street, filled with local shops and monasteries, such as Jokhang Temple.

Day 2: Lhasa City Sightseeing

  • Breakfast at your Hotel: Most hotels offer breakfast buffets with both Western and Tibetan options.
  • Visit Potala Palace: A symbol of Tibet, this ancient palace was once the residence of Dalai Lamas. Allow around 2 hours for a guided tour.
  • Lunch at Tashi’s Restaurant (Tibetan cuisine): Enjoy authentic dishes like momos and thenthuk in a cozy atmosphere.
  • Afternoon Visit to Sera Monastery: Witness the monks’ debating session, which is a unique Tibetan tradition.
  • Dinner at Yue Fu Tibetan Restaurant (Tibetan cuisine): Try traditional dishes like yak meat and tsampa in this popular restaurant.

Day 3: Norbulingka & Drepung Monastery

  • Breakfast at your Hotel
  • Morning Visit to Norbulingka: The Summer Palace of the Dalai Lamas, featuring beautiful gardens and traditional Tibetan architecture.
  • Lunch at House of Shambhala (Tibetan & International cuisine): This restaurant offers a great view of the Potala Palace while you dine.
  • Afternoon Visit to Drepung Monastery: One of the ‘great three’ Gelug monasteries, with stunning views of Lhasa.
  • Dinner at Tibet Kitchen (Tibetan cuisine): A local restaurant offering a wide variety of traditional dishes in a warm and welcoming environment.

Day 4: Jokhang Temple & Departure

  • Breakfast at your Hotel
  • Morning Visit to Jokhang Temple: This sacred temple, dating back over 1300 years, is a must-see in Lhasa. Spend some time exploring the interior and circumambulating the building.
  • Lunch at Kushok Tsogyal Restaurant (Tibetan & Chinese cuisine): Enjoy a final Tibetan meal before departing.
  • Afternoon Free for Last-Minute Shopping or Sightseeing
  • Departure from Lhasa Gonggar Airport: Say farewell to Lhasa as you head home with unforgettable memories of this amazing city.

Tips & Other Information:

  • Always respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting monasteries.
  • Tibet operates on Chinese Yuan (CNY). Exchange your currency at banks or authorized exchange centers.
  • Mobile data coverage is limited in Lhasa. Consider purchasing a SIM card or using free WiFi in hotels.
  • Taxis and car services are widely available, but negotiate prices before starting your journey.
  • Stay hydrated due to the high altitude and drink plenty of water.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and dress modestly when visiting monasteries.