Tibet Tours – Lhasa & Surrounds
Duration
What you will See & Do
As well as spending a couple of days exploring all the great sights of Lhasa take an overnight trip into the valleys east of Lhasa to the remote, but religiously important Drigung Gompa and the nearby nunnery of Tidrom with its medicinal hot springs.
The valleys east of Lhasa are some of the most beautiful and spiritually significant regions in all of Tibet, and are home to a wealth of incredible landmarks and cultural sites. One such site is the remote but renowned Drigung Gompa, a beautiful monastery that has been an important center of Tibetan Buddhism for centuries.
While you're in the area, be sure to visit the nearby nunnery of Tidrom as well. This serene and tranquil site is famous for its natural hot springs, which are said to have healing properties and are a popular destination for pilgrims from all over the region.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Lhasa - transfer to hotel
Your journey to Lhasa concludes as you arrive and are transferred to your hotel to begin your exploration of the city. Your arrival in Lhasa marks the start of an unforgettable adventure , the beautiful sights of Lhasa welcomes you.
Day 2: Lhasa sightseeing: Drepung Sera monasteries (option to add Norbulinka summer palace or the temple of the Nechung State Oracle)
The Lhasa sightseeing itinerary on Day 2 typically includes a visit to two historic Buddhist monasteries, Drepung and Sera. At Drepung, visitors can explore the impressive architecture, chapels, and courtyards of this Gelug university monastery, while at Sera, they can witness the famous daily debates among the monks. There may also be an option to add other attractions to the itinerary, such as the Norbulinka summer palace, which was once the summer residence of the Dalai Lama, or the temple of the Nechung State Oracle, a spiritual center and home to the Nechung Monastery. This itinerary offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and culture of Tibet, and is a must-do for anyone visiting Lhasa.
Day 3: Lhasa sightseeing: Potala, Jokhang, Barkhor Pilgrim Circuit (option to add Ramoche Temple)
Lhasa sightseeing typically includes a guided tour of some of the city's most iconic landmarks, such as the Potala Palace and the Jokhang Temple. The Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to India during the 1959 Tibetan uprising. Visitors can explore the palace's many chapels, halls, and courtyards, and enjoy panoramic views of Lhasa from the top.
The Jokhang Temple is considered one of the most sacred temples in Tibet and was built in the 7th century. It is located in the heart of Lhasa's old town and is surrounded by the Barkhor Pilgrim Circuit, a popular destination for pilgrims and visitors alike. The Barkhor Circuit is a bustling market area where visitors can browse local shops and enjoy a taste of Tibetan culture.
Visitors may also have the option to add the Ramoche Temple to their itinerary. This historic temple is located in the northwest of Lhasa and is considered one of the most important temples in Tibet. Overall, this sightseeing tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and culture of Tibet, and is a must-do for anyone visiting Lhasa.
Day 4: Via Ganden to Tidrum hot springs visit Tidrum Gompa (nunnery)
A scenic drive from Lhasa to the Tidrum hot springs, with a stop at the Ganden Monastery along the way. Ganden is a historic Gelugpa monastery that was founded in 1409 and offers stunning views of the surrounding valley.
After visiting Ganden, the journey continues to the Tidrum hot springs, which are known for their healing properties and are a popular destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can soak in the hot springs and enjoy the natural surroundings, which include picturesque waterfalls and lush forests.
As part of the itinerary, visitors also have the opportunity to visit the Tidrum Gompa, a nunnery that is located nearby. The nunnery is home to a community of Buddhist nuns and features impressive architecture and artwork.
Overall, this itinerary offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and relaxation, and is a great way to experience the diverse attractions that Tibet has to offer.
Day 5: Return to Lhasa, via Drigung Til
Drigung Til is a historic monastery located in the Drigung Valley, about 150 kilometers northeast of Lhasa. The valley is known for its stunning natural beauty, with rugged mountains, deep gorges, and alpine lakes.
Visitors on this itinerary may spend some time exploring Drigung Til monastery, which was founded in the 12th century and is one of the most important monasteries in the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is perched on a cliffside overlooking the valley, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
After exploring Drigung Til, visitors will make the journey back to Lhasa, either by car or by another mode of transportation. Along the way, they may be able to enjoy more views of the stunning Tibetan landscape and make stops at other scenic spots. Overall, this itinerary offers a chance to explore both Tibetan culture and natural beauty.
Day 6: Transfer to airport or station depart.
After all the trips you will be transferred to airport for your departure.