7 Day-Lhasa & Shigatse Cultural Exploration

  • Shigatse
  • 0 booked
  • Duration: 7 days
  • Language: English

Overview

Immerse yourself in the heart of Tibet with this 7-day cultural journey through Lhasa, Gyantse, and Shigatse. Begin your adventure in Lhasa, where you’ll explore the iconic Potala Palace, the sacred Jokhang Temple, and the historic Barkhor Square. Witness the vibrant monastic debates at Sera Monastery and visit Drepung Monastery, once the world’s largest.

Travel through Tibet’s breathtaking landscapes, stopping at the turquoise Yamdrok Lake, the stunning Karola Glacier, and the ancient Pelkor Chöde Monastery in Gyantse. In Shigatse, experience authentic Tibetan culture and visit the renowned Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama.

Return to Lhasa via the scenic Yarlung Tsangpo River, passing through traditional Tibetan villages. End your journey with a visit to the Drak Yerpa Meditation Caves, a sacred retreat once home to Tibet’s greatest spiritual masters.

This tour offers an unforgettable blend of history, spirituality, and stunning natural beauty, perfect for travelers seeking a deeper connection to Tibet’s culture and traditions.

 


 

Highlights

  • Historical sights in Lhasa
  • Yamdrok lake and Karola glacier
  • Sights in Gyangtse, the cultural town
  • Wangden Tibetan Handicraft Center
  • Panchen Lama’s Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Shigatse
  • Drak Yerpa meditation caves

 


What is Included

  • Tibet travel permits
  • Accommodation with breakfasts
  • Transportation (Tourist vehicle)
  • Entrance fee
  • Pick-up & drop-off
  • Guide gratuity
  • A welcome dinner
  • bottles of mineral water/day (1liter)
  • Oxygen cylinders
  • First aid & kit


 

What is Excluded

  • Meal (lunch and dinner)
  • Travel insurance
  • Any domestic & international train/flight fare
  • Personal expenses
  • Guide gratuity

What To Expect

1

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa – Acclimatization

  • Arrive in Lhasa via flight from Kathmandu. Your driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Lhasa (60km).
  • Today is an important acclimatization day—rest, stay hydrated, and take it easy to adjust to the altitude.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa
2

Day 2: Discover Lhasa’s Spiritual and Cultural Icons

  • Visit Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet, located in the vibrant Barkhor Square.
  • Explore the magnificent Potala Palace, the winter residence of the Dalai Lama and an architectural wonder.
  • Stop by Ramoche Monastery, a significant temple known for its ancient Buddhist relics.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa
3

Day 3: Monastic Traditions – Drepung & Sera Monasteries

  • Tour Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world, and the former seat of the Tibetan government.
  • Visit Sera Monastery, famous for its lively monastic debates, where monks engage in spirited philosophical discussions.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa
4

Day 4: Scenic Journey to Shigatse via Yamdrok Lake & Gyantse (375km)

  • Drive to Shigatse, stopping at breathtaking sites along the way:
    • Yamdrok Lake – a stunning turquoise lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes.
    • Karola Glacier – an awe-inspiring high-altitude glacier.
    • Gyantse – visit the iconic Pelkor Chöde Monastery and the Gyantse Kumbum, a spectacular multi-tiered stupa.
  • Continue to Wangden Tibetan Handicraft Centre, where traditional Tibetan rugs, carpets, and handicrafts are made.
  • Arrive in Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Shigatse
5

Day 5: Return to Lhasa via the Northern Route (280km)

  • Spend some time in Shigatse, then begin the scenic drive back to Lhasa along the Yarlung Tsangpo River, passing through picturesque Tibetan villages and deep gorges.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa
6

Day 6: Explore Drak Yerpa Meditation Caves (35km from Lhasa)

  • Visit Drak Yerpa, an ancient meditation retreat nestled in the mountains, featuring over 80 caves once used by monks and hermits for deep meditation.
  • Discover the spiritual heritage of Songtsen Gampo, Padmasambhava, Yeshe Tsogyal, and Atisha, who all meditated here.
  • Return to Lhasa for free time to explore at your own pace.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa
7

Day 7: Departure – Transfer to Airport or Train Station

  • Your driver will transfer you to Gongkar Airport or the Lhasa train station for your onward journey.
  • End of the tour – We hope you enjoyed your Lhasa & Shigatse Cultural Experience!

Map

Frequently Asked Questions
  • The best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is pleasant, and roads are accessible. Winter can be very cold, but it offers fewer crowds and clear views.

  • It’s important to rest on arrival, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activities on the first day. If needed, your guide can assist with oxygen and altitude sickness remedies.

  • You will stay in 4-star hotels: Banak Shol in Lhasa and Shiga Yangcha Hotel in Shigatse, offering comfortable amenities and a convenient location for sightseeing.

  • Yes, all foreign travelers need a Tibet Travel Permit, which we will arrange for you in advance. Please send us your passport and Chinese visa details at least 15 days before departure.

  • You will travel in a comfortable, private tourist vehicle with an experienced driver. The road conditions are generally good, but some routes may be winding and at high altitudes.

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