6 days Lhasa Shigatse group tour

Your Tibetan guide will greet you at the Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa railway station upon your arrival, and then transfer you to your hotel in the city. From the airport to Lhasa is 68 km (42 mi), roughly an hour drive to your hotel. The drive from the train station is only 15 km (9 mi) and takes 20 minutes. During the course of the ride, you will not only be amazed by the spectacular scenery of the Tibetan plateau, the scattered Tibetan villages, but certainly by the hospitality of your guide and driver, as well! After checking into the hotel, you will have the remainder of the day to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude.

Today, you'll explore two prominent Gelupa monasteries in the Lhasa area: Drepung Monastery in the morning and Sera Monastery in the afternoon.

Drepung monastery was the seat of the Government prior to Potala, it was once the world largest monastery in the history with 10,000 monks hailed from different monasteries all over Tibet.

Sera monastery, another of the ‘great three’ Gelug monasteries in Tibet, it's famous debating monks go back and forth in their debates every day between 3 pm to 5 pm (except on Sunday), performance is well worth seeing.

End the day with a welcome dinner with your group.

In the morning, you will visit Potala Palace. It is most renowned as the residence of the lineage of Dalai Lamas (Avalokiteshvara), though the massive structure contains a small world within itself. It was first built by 33rd ruler of his dynasty, King Songtsen Gangpo in the 7th century, but still is in surprisingly good repair because of continual rejuvenation projects.

Then proceed to visit Jokhang temple, it is the most scared building in Tibetan Buddhism, located in the heart of Lhasa old town. It is the most sought after pilgrimage destination for all Tibetans.
The Barkhor Street, a renowned Kora (holy walking path) encircling the Jokhang Temple, is constantly bustling with Tibetan faithful. Visitors will discover the unique experience of mingling with local pilgrims along Barkhor Street. It also serves as a vibrant shopping district, offering the perfect opportunity to purchase gifts for your loved ones.

Following your sightseeing adventures, join your guide at one of Lhasa's most vibrant Tibetan sweet tea houses. Here, you can enjoy sipping traditional Tibetan sweet tea while sitting among local Tibetans. Your guide will provide valuable insights into Tibetan social dynamics and daily life, offering a deeper understanding of the culture.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive towards Shigatse along the Friendship southern highway. Your first stop will be at Yamdrok Tso, one of Tibet's three sacred lakes, known for its stunning dark blue color resembling jasper. Enjoy a leisurely half-hour drive along the lakeshore before reaching the nearest town for an early lunch.

As you continue your journey towards Gyantse at an altitude of 3,980 meters (13,058 feet), you'll have the opportunity to pass by and admire the Karola Glacier, one of Tibet's three major continental glaciers.

Gyantse is a charming Tibetan town that has retained its distinctive character. Take some time to explore Gyantse ancient city, capturing photographs of its unique features. Afterward, resume your travel to Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind, allowing yourself to rest and recharge.

In the morning, you will visit Tashilunpo Monastery, it is one of the six prominent yellow hat sect monasteries and renowned as the seat of the Panchen Lama. Tashilunpo Monastery houses the world's largest statue of Maitreya Buddha. The monastery's impressive halls and intricate artwork provide a glimpse into Tibetan spirituality and culture. Visitors can explore the vibrant religious life within its walls and admire the stunning architecture.
You will also visit the Samzhubze Old Market in Shigatse, where you can explore the lively market, interact with friendly residents, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere that defines this authentic Tibetan market.

Afterward, drive back to Lhasa along the Northern Friendship Highway, with marvelous landscapes and scenery along the Brahmaputra River continuing all the way back to Lhasa. 

P.S. You also have the option to take a train from Shigatse to Lhasa instead of driving. Please note that train tickets for this option require an additional payment.

Your Tibet tour will end today, but if you would like to extend your stay in Lhasa or Tibet, just please let one of our Travel Advisor know. We are ready to help answer any of your questions.

If you do decide to depart your guide and driver will see you off at the airport or train station.