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Lhasa Short Tour is an awe-inspiring 4-day itinerary that provides an excellent opportunity to explore the culturally rich, mysterious Lhasa city. This ancient religious city has developed by modernization but still kept its cultural and historical sites well-preserved and well to visit. It is the easy and shortest possible tour of Lhasa that helps you learn about Tibetan culture in a short time.
A classic four-day Lhasa tour begins and ends in the spiritual heart of Tibet, Lhasa. You’ll get an opportunity to tour around major holy Tibetan Buddhist sites like the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street in Lhasa city. Further, this trip will take you to the ancient Tibetan monasteries in Lhasa like Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery. Both of these monasteries are stunning and hold their history and religious significance.
Lhasa, Tibet tour is doable all year round. However, the best time to visit Lhasa city is from April to November. This cultural Lhasa Short Tour commences with a sightseeing tour around the most stunning Potala Palace, one of the most prominent landmarks of Lhasa. It is the winter palace that was built in the 17th century by the 5th Dalai Lama. You’ll also explore a sacred temple of Tibet, Jokhang. In the 7th century, King Songtsen Gampo built this temple. The temple consists of the ancient statue of the Shakyamuni Buddha. After visiting the temple, you can stroll around Barkhor Street. It is one of the most popular shopping streets in Lhasa.
The next day you’ll visit Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery, two of three great monasteries of Gelugpa School. It is the largest monastery in Tibet and now serves as one of the prominent universities for Buddhist monks. In the 15th century, it was home to ten thousand monks. You’ll get an opportunity to admire the magnificent statue of Maitreya Buddha, which is truly breathtaking.
After Drepung, you’ll head towards the north of Lhasa to visit Sera Monastery. It mainly consists of Great Assembly Hall, three Zhacangs (colleges), and 32 Kamcuns (dormitory). Besides, inside the monastery complex, there are many other attractions worth seeing, such as rock paintings, murals, Buddha statues, thangkas, sand mandalas, etc. Also, attending the famous religious debate session of the monks in the Sera monastery is another major highlight of this short Lhasa cultural tour.
After visiting all the spectacular sights of the holy city in Lhasa, you’ll fly back to your next destination and end this memorable 4 days- Lhasa Short Tour.
Trip Highlights:
– Enjoy a full-day excursion to Lhasa, the heart and soul of the capital city of Tibet.
– Explore the historic Potala Palace, once the residence of Dalai Lamas.
– Visit the revered Jokhang Temple, a central pilgrimage site in Tibetan Buddhism.
– Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the Barkhor circuit.
– Admire the impressive architectural and artistic marvels of Drepung Monastery.
– Witness the magnificent statues of Maitreya and Chenresig inside the Sera Monastery.
– Behold the precious Kangyur, a collection of Buddha’s teachings, printed in 1410.
– Attend the famous philosophical debates, a fundamental practice of Buddhism at Sera Monastery.
– Immerse yourself in the mystical world of Tibetan Buddhism through visits to various holy sites in Lhasa.
– Gain insights into the enigmatic Tibetan culture and history.
– A short and accessible cultural tour suitable for all individuals.
Brief Itinerary:
Welcome to the beginning of your Lhasa Short Tour! Upon arrival in Lhasa, our Tibetan guide will be there to welcome you. They will assist you with your transfer to your designated accommodation in downtown Lhasa. As you settle in, take some time to rest and acclimate to the high-altitude environment.
Lhasa is nestled in the Himalayan valley, situated at an elevation of over 3,500 meters above sea level. It’s important to be mindful of the altitude, so remember to stay hydrated and enjoy a traditional Tibetan meal to kick off your adventure.
Overnight stay in Lhasa.
After a hearty breakfast, get ready for a day filled with captivating sightseeing in Lhasa city. Your first stop will be the awe-inspiring Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and once the residence of the Dalai Lama. With over 1,000 rooms, 10,000 shrines, and about 200,000 statues, it stands as a testament to Tibetan architectural and artistic excellence. Perched atop Marpo Ri, or the “Red Hill,” it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the valley. The palace is divided into the Red Palace, primarily used for religious practices, and the White Palace, which housed the Tibetan government offices.
Next, visit the holiest of Tibetan temples, Jokhang Temple. Legend has it that Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, subdued the earth demons and built this temple over their heart. Lhasa is often referred to as the religious heart of Tibet, and Jokhang Temple is at its core. Surrounding the temple is the bustling Barkhor Street, where you can join Tibetan locals and pilgrims in the kora, a sacred circumambulation. Explore the vibrant market, where you may find local handicrafts, handmade silver jewelry, and various religious items like prayer flags and beads.
Conclude your historical tour at Barkhor Street and then return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Overnight stay in Lhasa.
Today, you’ll embark on a fascinating tour to explore two significant monasteries in Lhasa.
Your first destination is Drepung Monastery, the largest Tibetan monastery nestled on the Gambo Utse mountain. As one of Tibet’s “great three” Gelug university gompas, Drepung embodies the rich tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, emphasizing wisdom and compassion. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter monks who have dedicated themselves to the pursuit of inner peace and kindness. Built in the 14th century, Drepung once housed a thriving community of 10,000 monks.
Next, journey 2 kilometers north of Lhasa to the serene Sera Monastery, located at the foothills of Pubuchok mountain. Like Drepung, Sera is one of the “great three” Gelugpa monasteries. Its complex includes a printing house and three important colleges – Sera Me, Sera Je, and Sera Ngagpa. The centerpiece of the monastery is the main Assembly hall, an impressive building with five chapels and a magnificent thangka hanging from the ceiling. You’ll also encounter a statue of Jamchen Choje, the founder of Sera. Don’t miss the iconic debating courtyard lined with trees, where you can witness the renowned monk’s debate session.
After an enlightening day of exploration, return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Overnight stay in Lhasa.
Today marks the conclusion of your memorable journey in the sacred city of Lhasa. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, take some time for any last-minute shopping or exploration, depending on your flight schedule.
Our Tibetan guide will accompany you to the international airport, providing you with the opportunity to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had in this spiritual city. As you journey back to Lhasa airport, take in the sights and memories of your time in this remarkable place.
If you’re eager for further adventures, consider extending your trip to other regions of Tibet or exploring neighboring countries like Nepal, India, or Bhutan for enriching cultural sightseeing tours. Let us know your preferences, and we’ll be delighted to craft an exciting and adventurous itinerary for you.
Safe travels and may your journey ahead be filled with extraordinary experiences!
