Lhasa to Shigatse Tour

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its grand halls, richly decorated chapels, and enjoy panoramic views of Lhasa city from the hilltop.

After lunch, visit the sacred Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet, where pilgrims from across the region come to offer prayers. Stroll along the Barkhor Street circuit surrounding the temple, experiencing local life, traditional shops, and Tibetan culture up close.

Today, immerse yourself in Tibetan Buddhist culture with visits to two of Lhasa’s most important monasteries.

Morning: Drepung Monastery

Explore Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world, home to thousands of monks. Visit its prayer halls, chapels, and the Ganden Palace, and enjoy panoramic views of the Lhasa valley.

Afternoon: Sera Monastery

After lunch, head to Sera Monastery, famous for its lively monk debating sessions held in the courtyard. Observe this fascinating tradition, where monks practice logic and Buddhist philosophy in animated debates.

After breakfast, depart Lhasa and begin your scenic drive toward Gyantse, crossing high mountain passes and passing through traditional Tibetan villages.

Stop at Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes, renowned for its turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Enjoy photography and the serene landscape, appreciating the spiritual and natural beauty of this landmark.

Continue your journey through valleys and pastures until reaching Gyantse, a historical town famous for the Gyantse Kumbum and the Dzong fortress. Explore the town briefly before settling in for your overnight stay.

After breakfast, explore Gyantse, starting with the Palcho Monastery and its iconic Kumbum Stupa, famous for its multi-tiered structure and intricate murals depicting Buddhist teachings. Stroll through the old Dzong (fortress) area for panoramic views of the town and surrounding valley.

Afterward, drive to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city and an important cultural and religious center. Upon arrival, visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, to admire its massive bronze statues, colorful murals, and grand courtyards.

After breakfast, begin your scenic drive back to Lhasa, passing through valleys, Tibetan villages, and picturesque landscapes along the Yarlung Tsangpo River. Enjoy the last views of the high plateau, snow-capped peaks, and traditional Tibetan settlements on the way.

Upon arrival in Lhasa, check in to your hotel and spend the evening at leisure. You can relax, explore nearby streets, or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs such as prayer flags, thangka paintings, or Tibetan handicrafts.

Today is reserved for leisure or optional sightseeing in Lhasa, allowing you to explore at a relaxed pace or revisit favorite spots.

Options include:

• Norbulingka Palace – The former summer palace of the Dalai Lama, with beautiful gardens and palace halls.

• Tibet Museum – Learn about Tibetan history, culture, and art.

• Strolling through Barkhor Street for souvenir shopping, local snacks, and cultural interactions.

Evening at leisure in your hotel, preparing for your departure the following day.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Lhasa Gonggar Airport for your departure flight. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have a short opportunity for last-minute shopping or a gentle walk around the hotel area.

This marks the end of your Lhasa to Shigatse Tour, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Tibetan culture, sacred monasteries, and breathtaking highland landscapes.