7-Day Tibet Travel Itinerary (Markdown Format)

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa

• Location: Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet Autonomous Region.
• Activities: Rest and acclimatize to the high altitude. Visit the local market (Barkhor Street) for some shopping.

Tips: Remember, Lhasa is at an elevation of over 3,600 meters. Acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness.

Day 2: Explore Lhasa - Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple

• Activities: Visit the iconic Potala Palace, former winter palace of the Dalai Lama. Also, explore Jokhang Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Tibet.

Things to Know: Both sites are sacred places, so dress modestly and remove your shoes when entering.

Day 3: More of Lhasa - Sera Monastery and Drepung Monastery

• Activities: Visit the debating monasteries of Sera and Drepung. Witness the monks’ debate, a daily tradition in these monasteries.

Transportation: Taxis or tourist buses are readily available for travel around Lhasa.

Day 4: Journey to Gyantse via Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier

• Activities: Drive to the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake and marvel at the majestic Karola Glacier en route to Gyantse. In Gyantse, visit the Pelkor Chode Monastery and Kumbum Stupa.

Transportation: Private cars or tourist buses are commonly used for inter-city travel in Tibet. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition due to the challenging road conditions.

Day 5: Gyantse to Shigatse - Tashilhunpo Monastery

• Activities: Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama. Explore the local market and enjoy Tibetan cuisine.

Things to Know: The monastery is an active Buddhist training center with over 800 monks.

Day 6: Return to Lhasa via Yamdrok Lake (Optional) or Visit Everest Base Camp

• Activities: If time allows, return to Lhasa via Yamdrok Lake (Day 4 route). Alternatively, take a detour to Everest Base Camp for breathtaking views of Mount Everest.

Transportation: Private cars or tourist buses are used for these journeys. Ensure you have enough fuel and warm clothing.

Day 7: Departure

• Activities: Pack your bags, bid farewell to Tibet, and depart from Lhasa Gonggar Airport.

Visa Requirements: Tourists need a Chinese visa and a Tibet Travel Permit to visit Tibet. The Tibet Travel Permit can be arranged by a local travel agency.