6 Day Lhasa – Gyangtse – Shigatse Tour

Set out early for the highlight of Lhasa, the imposing Potala Palace, the sacred, mysterious palace dating back to 7th century and the spiritual center of Tibetan people thereafter. Take your time to learn more about the former residence of Dalai Lama. Then, move to the Jokhang Temple, the most divine and respected Buddhist temple among locals and pilgrims, with a history of over 1,300 years. Encircling the temple is the Barkhor Circuit, a bustling commercial area and popular bazaar into which hundreds of pilgrims are drawn daily to perform rituals and explore shops and stalls offering traditional handcrafts and cuisine.

Following is by the final stop, the Ani Tsankhung Nunnery built for meditation by the 7th century Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. See the resident nuns' skill and artistry as they attend to producing goods for sale, to support themselves.

Note: Taking photos and video, wearing skirts, short pants, sunglasses and hat are all prohibited inside the Potala Palace.

Meals included: Breakfast

Start today by taking in the beauty of the buildings, treasures and location of Norbulingka, the summer resort of Dalai Lama for several generations. Visitors also have an opportunity to learn how to produce Thangka, a unique Tibetan scroll painting with silk embroidery.

Drepung Monastery enjoys the highest position among Gelugpa monasteries. The large complex houses many collectibles including porcelains, Thangka, scriptures, bronze articles and Buddha statues, armor and weapons. It is a major center of learning about the civilization of Tibet and is a source of information and inspiration for locals.

On a visit to the notable Sera Monastery in the afternoon, debating amongst the monks is on the schedule. Debates provide an opportunity for monks to demonstrate their scholarship and rise through the ranks. Visitors usually are struck by the physicality of the debates, with clapping their hands and pushing their partners for an answer.

Meals included: Breakfast

Have your camera ready to capture some spectacular scenery as you set out early in the morning for a 2.5 hour drive along the old Mountain Road to Shigatse. Along the way, there are many viewing platforms from which to see Yamdrok Lake, one of the three sacred lakes in Tibet, situated on an altitude of 4,440 meters and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The massive expanse of slow moving Karola Glacier is a natural wonder as it spills into two overhanging glaciers feeding into the Nianchu River.

Continuing on to Gyangtse, a stop will be made at Palcho Monastery, an exquisite structure built back in the early 15th century. Typical of Tibetan Buddhist monastic architecture the building combines pagoda and temple. Palcho Monastery is famous for its long history, complete construction, special religious value and well-preserved beautiful paintings and statues. Lastly, pass along Gyangtse Old Street to see the lifestyle of the locals in their houses, shops and wares.
At about 5 pm, arrive in Shigatse and check in to the pre-booked hotel.

Meals included: Breakfast

Travelling aboard a comfortable vehicle with the tour guide, you will be driven to the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, the largest temple in the Shigatse area, dating back to the year of 1447. It is the residence of the fifth Panchen Lama, leader of Tibetan Buddhists, and an eminent seat of learning. History of the center, religious and cultural importance, cultural relics and beautiful gardens appeal, as does the splendid new Palace of Panchen on the east side of the monastery, the summer palace of the Panchen Lama. The day’s tour ends as you are driven back to the hotel in Lhasa.

Meals included: Breakfast

Be met by your guide at hotel and transferred to the airport or the train station for your next destination. Your tour concludes today.

Meals included: Breakfast