Lhasa & Shigatse Holy City Explore

In the sacred city of Lhasa, visit the grand Potala Palace, the holy Jokhang Temple, and the colorful Barkhor Square. Watch monks debate at Sera Monastery and join pilgrims in exploring the temples and prayer halls at Drepung Monastery. From Lhasa, drive to the town of Gyantse, stopping at the stunning, turquoise Yamdrok Lake along the way. In Shigatse, visit Tashilunpo Monastery and see the giant Buddha. Next, pass by the misty Yangbachen hot springs and spend at night with nomads at Namtso, a pristine lake surrounded by snow mountains. Drive to a small nunnery nestled in an idyllic village in the mountains and bathe in the natural hot springs by the river.

Itinerary: 

Visit Drepung, one of the three most famous monasteries in Lhasa. Drepung is located just outside Lhasa on Gambo Utse Mountain. Once home to as many as 10,000 monks, the enormous monastic complex consist of many prayer halls, dormitories, and temples. Beneath the monastery lies the Nechung temple, which used to be the residence of the state oracle. Following that, you can explore Sera monastery, where you will have the opportunity to witness monks engaging in debates within the courtyard. If you are fond of hiking, you can also take a one-hour stroll along the circumambulation path surrounding the monastery complex.

Day 4: Lhasa – Yamdrok Lake – Gyantse – Shigatse [3836m], 350km, 7 hours

Beginning your adventure in the Himalayas, drive to Gyantse. Along the way cross over the Kamba la (4794m) and the Karo la passes (5010m).which boast spectacular views. After Kamba la, arrive at Yamdrok Lake, a holy turquoise-colored lake with stunning scenery. In Gyantse, visit Pelkor Monastery and Kumbum Stupa (100 Thousand Buddha Pagoda), both of which were built in the 15th century and are located on the northwestern edge of town. In the afternoon, drive 90km drive west to Shigatse,  this is the second largest city in Tibet.

Day 5: Shigatse – Yurlung Tsangpo River – Lhasa, 280km, 5 hours

Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery in the morning before heading back to Lhasa. Tashilhunpo is one of six great monasteries in Tibet and the seat of Panchen Lamas. Afterwards, drive back to Lhasa. Upon returning to Lhasa, take the opportunity to leisurely explore the Barkhor street at your own pace and select some gifts for your friends and family.

Day 6. Depart Lhasa 

Say goodbye to Tibet!

Tour Map