Central Lhasa Tour 3 Nights/4 Days

Overview

"Exploring the Mystical Lhasa"

Discover the enchanting city of Lhasa, rich in history and culture, with visits to sacred temples, majestic palaces, and picturesque villages. This itinerary provides an immersive experience of Tibetan heritage and breathtaking landscapes.

Tour Highlights

Jokhang Temple: Experience the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism.
Sera Monastery: Witness the lively debates among monks in a beautiful setting.
Barkhor Market: Shop for unique Tibetan handicrafts and immerse in local culture.
Potala Palace: Explore the stunning architecture and rich Tibetan art.
Shal Village: Enjoy hiking, stunning landscapes, and cultural interactions with locals.

Best Season:

Spring (April to June)

Weather: Mild temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C) during the day make it comfortable for outdoor activities. Nights can be chilly, so layering is advised.
Scenery: The landscape comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery, making it an excellent time for photography and natural beauty.
Fewer Tourists: The tourist crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer season, allowing for a more peaceful experience at key sites.

Autumn (September to October)

Weather: Comfortable temperatures, typically between 50°F and 65°F (10°C to 18°C), similar to spring. It is also generally drier during these months.
Scenic Views: Autumn offers clear skies and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, along with vibrant fall colors, especially in October.
Cultural Activities: Early October may coincide with important local festivals, providing a unique opportunity to experience Tibetan culture.

Considerations:

Summer (July to August): This is the peak tourist season in Lhasa, with warm temperatures (60°F to 80°F / 15°C to 27°C) but also the most rainfall. Expect larger crowds at popular sites.

Price Starting From

$ 1215

Best Time to Travel

April to June

September to October

July to August

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Lhasa to Gongkar Airport

You'll be met by your Tibetan guide upon arrival. After completing immigration formalities, you'll drive 65 km approximately 1 hour) to Lhasa, situated at 3660 meters (12,000 ft).
Check-in at Hotel: Rest and acclimatize to the high altitude. Stay hydrated and take a light walk in the afternoon for sightseeing.
Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa (Breakfast included).

Day 02: Drepung and Sera Monasteries

After breakfast and a briefing, head out with your guide to Drepung Monastery.
Drepung Monastery: Located 8 km west of Lhasa, it was founded in 1416 and historically served as a center for learning and monastic training, housing thousands of monks.
Afternoon: Visit Sera Monastery, about 5 km from Lhasa.
Sera Monastery: Founded in 1419, it once housed up to 6,000 monks and features beautiful structures. Witness the famous monk debates that occur daily.
Return to Hotel: After a full day of exploration return to Hotel.
Overnight stay Hotel in Lhasa (Breakfast included).

Day 03: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Market

After breakfast, your guide will take you to Potala Palace. Potala Palace: Known as the winter palace, it’s a stunning thirteen-story structure filled with Tibetan artistic treasures. You’ll have an hour for guided exploration.
Visit Jokhang Temple: This seventh-century temple, considered Tibet's most sacred, eatures various chapels and a significant historical background.
Stroll through Barkhor Market: Experience the lively atmosphere, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy local specialties.
Return to Hotel: After your visits.
Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa (Breakfast included).

Day 04: Departure from Lhasa

Review your unforgettable experiences as you prepare to depart for Gongkar Airport. Your guide will assist you based on your flight schedule for the 65 km drive (approximately 1 hour) to the airport.

Excludes and Includes

Price Inclusions

Twin sharing accommodation as per the itinerary on bed & breakfast (BB) basis.
English speaking Tibetan Guide.
Transportation as per the itinerary by necessary vehicle.
Monastery entrance fee.
Tibet Travel permits.
Emergency mineral water in the vehicle.
Emergency portable oxygen cylinder in the vehicle.
Trip briefing by Tibet expert & entertain question.
Trip Information pack.
Gift pack (prayer flag or string of flag & paper prayer Lungtha).

Note: Offer Prayer flag or Lungtha (string of prayer flag) in high passes, temple for good fortune & long life.

Price Exclusions

Tibet Visa Fee (Acceptable in US$ cash only).
Airfare: Kathmandu – Lhasa– Kathmandu (Fare as per availability).
Travel insurance.
Expenses during any rescue operation.
Nepal re-entry visa fee.
Lunch and Dinner
Alcoholic beverages & bar bills.
All expenses of personal nature, phone calls, laundry etc.
Gratuity to staff.
Services of Porterage and other vehicles in between in case of landslides and other natural calamities beyond our control and expenses incurred during rescue services.
Services not mentioned here in.

Visa Information

Entering Tibet via Mainland China:

Chinese Visa Application: Obtain a tourist visa (L type) from your home country. Documents needed for Tibet will be supplied by your travel agency.
Visa Processing Time: Typically takes 3 days to 1 week.
Required Documents for Tibet Travel Permit:
- Color scan of passport (submit 30 days prior to travel).
- Copy of the Chinese visa (submit 20 days prior to travel).
Permit Delivery: The Tibet Travel Permit will be delivered to any city in China before travel to Lhasa. It is required at immigration.
Gateway City Recommendation: It's advisable to stay for at least one night in a gateway city in China before flying to Lhasa.

Entering Tibet via Kathmandu, Nepal:

Tibet Group Visa: Apply for this visa; the processing takes 4 working days (Monday to Friday).
Required Documents for Group Visa:
- Color scan of passport (submit 30 days prior).
- 1 color MRP-size photo as per Chinese Embassy guidelines.
Arrival Planning: Guests must arrive in Kathmandu according to the embassy's working days and flight schedules.

New Rules:

Group Requirement: A minimum of 4 travelers is generally required for the group visa; however, a minimum of 2 is sometimes accepted if the other 2 cancel with a fee.

General Information:

Passport Requirements: Passports must be valid for more than 6 months and should be ordinary passports.
Using the Same Passport: The same passport used to apply for the Tibet permit must be used during travel. Notify in case of passport changes immediately to avoid trip cancellations.
Connecting Travels: Careful planning is required if you're traveling to and from China and Tibet to avoid complications with visas.
Embassy Holidays: Chinese embassies are closed during certain holidays but may accept early applications.
Cultural Sensitivity Briefing: Important for safety and awareness during travel in Tibet.

Notes

Child Policy

Up to 5 years: Free (sharing bed with parents).
5-10 years: 90% of adult cost (sharing bed with parents).
With extra bed: 100% of adult cost.

Cancellation Policy

35-21 days before arrival: 30% of the tour cost.
21-14 days before arrival: 60% of the tour cost.
Less than 14 days or no-show: 100% of the tour cost.

Important Notes:

Check-in/Check-out: Hotel check-in is at 1400 hrs, and check-out is at 1200 hrs.
Currency Fluctuations: Rates are subject to change in case of currency fluctuations or changes in local government taxes.
Road Conditions: Please note that road conditions in Nepal may vary, and delays can occur due to traffic, road repairs, or weather conditions.
Dress Code: Modest clothing is recommended when visiting religious sites.
Travel Insurance: We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances.

Why Choose us?

Expert Local Guides: Our guides are knowledgeable and passionate about sharing Tibet’s culture and history.
Customizable Itineraries: Tailor your tour to suit your preferences.
Sustainable Tourism: We support local communities and eco-friendly practices.
24/7 Support: Our team is available round-the-clock to assist you during your trip.