Holy City Lhasa Tour is one of our most popular itineraries. See Tibetan Buddhism’s most revered religious sites and learn about classical Tibetan architecture while soaking in traditional Tibetan culture. Climb up the Potala Palace and get a great view of Lhasa city; witness the Buddhism Scriptures Debate between monks in Sera Monastery; stroll along the special circular pilgrimage route and follow the footsteps of pilgrims to witness their devotion; choose some unique Tibetan souvenirs for your families and friends in Barkhor Street.
Holy City Lhasa Tour
Recommended groups: First-time visitors or those who have limited time for traveling. Most popular for families with kids or seniors.
Conditions: The activities will be in and around Lhasa, thus the road condition is very good. As attractions are very close to each other, customers won’t need to spend much time in the car. A little walking or climbing is involved. As the altitude is about 3,650 meters above sea level, a reasonable level of fitness is needed.
Best time: Available all year round. If you have a tight budget come from December to February. Otherwise, try to avoid July and August.
Brief itinerary about Holy City Lhasa Tour
Day 1 Lhasa Arrival
Welcome to the roof of the world! You will be pick up at the airport or train station, then be escorted to your hotel in Lhasa city at the comfort of your own private vehicle. En route, enjoy the breathtaking view along the Yarlung Tsangpo River. Tibetan features can be seen along the way, including Big Buddha engravings on the hill near the road, colorful prayer flags, and friendly Tibetan people.
After arrival at your hotel, the rest of the day is free for you to explore the local area and acclimatize yourself to this high-altitude city at the top of the world.
Day 2 Lhasa Sightseeing
After breakfast, you will firstly visit Norbulingka Park, the former summer palace of Dalai Lama. Explore the beautiful gardens and experience one of the holiest sites in Tibetan Buddhism while soaking up the rich history. Next, come to Drepung Monastery, which was once the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery housing 10,000 monks in its heyday. Learn about the lives of Tibetan monks.
Your tour ends at Sera Monastery, where you will get the chance to experience “Buddhism Scriptures Debating”. These debates are unique to Sera and are quite famous. Enjoy the debates!
Day 3 Wondering Lhasa
The overwhelming Potala Palace is your first stop. As the symbol of Tibet, it was built in 641 AD and was the winter palace of Dalai Lama who is Tibet’s pope. Impressive Tibetan architecture, huge golden Buddha statues, red-robed lamas, and devoted pilgrims all make it a must-visit.
In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Jokhang Temple, the spiritual center of Tibet. Every day, pilgrims from every corner of Tibet trek here from long distances to worship. Finally, walk the special circular pilgrimage route as local followers always do at Barkhor Street.
Day 4 Departure from Lhasa
Today is free for you until your tour guide transfers you to the airport in time for your flight or drops you off at Lhasa train station.
