China's Cultural Tapestry: Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu & Shanghai
Experience Tibet's Spiritual & Natural Wonders
Day 1: Arrival in the Roof of the World
Arrive in Lhasa • Acclimatize to High Altitude
Upon your arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport or train station, our English-speaking guide will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Lhasa, with its breathtaking scenery, distinctive folk customs, and profound religious atmosphere, awaits your exploration. Today is dedicated to acclimatizing to the high altitude of 3,650 meters (11,975 feet).
Accommodation: Gang-Gyan Hotel Lhasa (4 stars) or similar
Day 2: Lhasa's Great Monasteries
Drepung Monastery • Sera Monastery Monks' Debate • Welcome Dinner
Begin your Tibetan exploration at Drepung Monastery, one of Lhasa's "Three Great Monasteries." Marvel at the Ganden Potrang's unique Tibetan architecture with its distinctive Bemar grass decoration. Explore the magnificent Coqen Hall supported by 183 colorful columns, filled with exquisite Thangkas, murals, and Buddha statues.
In the afternoon, visit the romantic Sera Monastery, famous for its wild rose legends. Witness the captivating Buddhist doctrine debates where lamas passionately discuss philosophical concepts through dramatic gestures and responses. The day concludes with a specially prepared welcome dinner featuring authentic Tibetan cuisine.
Meals: Western buffet breakfast, Welcome dinner
Accommodation: Gang-Gyan Hotel Lhasa (4 stars) or similar
Day 3: Lhasa's Spiritual Heart
Potala Palace • Jokhang Temple • Barkhor Street • Traditional Tea House
Today unveils Tibet's most iconic landmarks starting with the majestic Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the Red Palace, symbolizing solemnity and power, and the peaceful White Palace while learning about Tibetan history and architecture.
Visit the 1,300-year-old Jokhang Temple, Tibet's spiritual center, featuring a unique blend of Tibetan, Chinese, Nepalese, and Indian architectural styles. Witness the golden roofs and intricate woodcarvings while paying homage to the sacred life-sized statue of 12-year-old Sakyamuni.
Complete your day strolling around Barkhor Street, the circular pilgrimage path surrounding Jokhang Temple. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of traditional markets before relaxing at a local sweet tea house to experience daily Tibetan social culture.
Meals: Western buffet breakfast, Tea break
Accommodation: Gang-Gyan Hotel Lhasa (4 stars) or similar
Day 4: Sacred Lakes & Glacial Wonders
Yamdrok Yumtso Lake • Local Family Visit • Karola Glacier • Barley Farmlands
Journey westward from Lhasa to Shigatse, stopping at the sacred Yamdrok Yumtso Lake, one of Tibet's Great Three Holy Lakes. Witness the lake's mesmerizing color changes from deep azure to light blue, creating breathtaking photographic opportunities from the Gampala Pass viewing platform.
Experience authentic Tibetan hospitality with a visit to a local family's home by the lake. Listen to fascinating legends about the sacred waters while enjoying a homemade farm lunch.
Continue to the spectacular Karola Glacier, where you can admire its brilliant blue ice tongue stretching dramatically toward the highway. Marvel at the stunning contrast between the glacier and the vibrant barley farmlands at its base before arriving in Shigatse for overnight stay.
Meals: Western buffet breakfast, Farm house lunch
Accommodation: Shiga-Yangcha Hotel Shigatse (3 stars) or similar
Day 5: Shigatse's Spiritual & Cultural Treasures
Tashilhunpo Monastery • Samdruptse Old Market • Return to Lhasa
Explore Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of successive Panchen Lamas and Tibet's second-largest monastery. Marvel at the world's largest gilded copper statue of Maitreya Buddha standing 26 meters tall and admire the magnificent Stupa-tomb of the Tenth Panchen Lama adorned with gold and precious jewels.
Immerse yourself in local culture at Samdruptse Old Market, where the aromas of butter tea, barley wine, and traditional handicrafts create an unforgettable sensory experience. In the afternoon, return to Lhasa while enjoying spectacular views of the Yarlung Tsangpo River canyon and Himalayan foothills.
Meals: Western buffet breakfast
Accommodation: Gang-Gyan Hotel Lhasa (4 stars) or similar
Day 6: Departure from Lhasa
Farewell to Tibet
Our guide will escort you to the airport or train station for your departure, concluding your 6-day journey through Tibet's spiritual and natural wonders. We wish you a pleasant onward journey and welcome future opportunities to explore more of Tibet's incredible landscapes and culture.
Meals: Western buffet breakfast