Tibet 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Tibet Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Lhasa Exploration

Places to Go

  1. Potala Palace: A symbol of Tibet and one of the most famous landmarks in the world, this palace was the residence of the Dalai Lama for centuries.
  2. Jokhang Temple: One of the oldest and most sacred temples in all of Tibet. It houses the Jowo Rinpoche, a 1,300-year-old statue of Buddha Sakyamuni.
  3. Barkhor Street: A lively pilgrimage circuit surrounding the Jokhang Temple where you can find traditional Tibetan artisans and shops.

Activities

  • Join the pilgrims circumambulating the Jokhang Temple.
  • Visit the roof of Potala Palace for panoramic views of Lhasa.
  • Attend a prayer service at one of the many monasteries around Lhasa.

Things to Know

  • Altitude sickness is common in Lhasa, drink plenty of water and take it easy during your first day.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Temples and monasteries have strict dress codes, ensure you are dressed appropriately.

Visa Requirements

  • A Tibet Travel Permit is required for foreigners to enter Tibet. This can be arranged through a local travel agency in China.
  • If you’re entering from Nepal or other border regions, additional permits may be required.

Transportation

  • Lhasa Gonggar Airport is the main gateway to Lhasa with flights available from major Chinese cities.
  • Highways connecting Lhasa with other parts of Tibet are well-maintained but travel can be slow due to the high altitude and road conditions.

Day 2: Norbulingka and Drepung Monastery

Places to Go

  1. Norbulingka Park: The summer palace of the Dalai Lama, it houses many beautiful Tibetan buildings and gardens.
  2. Drepung Monastery: One of the ‘great three’ Gelugpa monasteries of Tibet, it was once home to over 10,000 monks.

Activities

  • Learn about Buddhism at Drepung Monastery.
  • Enjoy a picnic in Norbulingka Park.
  • Visit the Nechung Monastery, the seat of the State Oracle of Tibet.

Day 3: Sera Monastery and Market Visit

Places to Go

  1. Sera Monastery: Known for its debating monks, it’s one of the best places to witness this unique Tibetan tradition.
  2. Local Market: Experience the vibrant local life by visiting a market like the Lhasa Central Market or the Barkhor Bazaar.

Activities

  • Watch the monk debates at Sera Monastery.
  • Bargain for souvenirs at the local market.
  • Visit the Tibetan Medical and Astrology Institute to learn about traditional Tibetan medicine and astrology.

Things to Know

  • Tipping is not customary in Tibet, so there’s no need to tip guides or drivers.
  • Bartering is common in markets, but prices are generally fixed elsewhere.
  • Respect the monks and nuns by maintaining a respectful distance during debates.