As saying goes You are what you eat, Tibetans have very unique food habit that is a part of traditional Tibetan food from many decades. Coming to Tibet for its attraction such as monasteries, temples and palaces , it is sure worth to try some of the local Tibetan food from which you could learn something about Tibetans. Because of the high elevation and dryness of the land, Tibet is not a land of vegetation, although barley is the major crop in Tibet.
Tibetan’s staple food Tsampa is a flour milled from roasted barley. Tsampa could take a while to get use to how to eat it out of a bowl. The most basic way is to make a dough out of Tsampa by adding a bit of butter tea. Pour a little butter tea at the bottom of bowl, then put a dollop of tsampa on it before stir it with your forefinger and knead it with your hand. To enhance the taste of it, children mostly love to add a bit of butter and sugar along with hot butter tea, while the butter melts and sugar dissolves in hot tea, or by adding some dry crushed cheese made of dri’s (female yak) milk, then put a dollop of tsampa, stir it gently with your forefinger until it becomes easy enough to knead it with your hand and make a dough which can be eat with butter tea for breakfast most of the time. However , Tsampa is the most convenient food for the pilgrims from countryside and nomads who would go on a day long with their herd. They would carry a Thang kuk (a small bag made of animal skin) with tsampa in it, it is easier to make tsampa in thang kuk rather than in a bowl, and most importantly it is easier to carry around since they are always on road outside their home.
Tsampa is great ingredient for making porridge with small pieces of Yak meat and butter in it, it is the most delicious porridge specially during cold winter in Tibet. Tibetan likes to eat stinging nettle porridge that is made with Tsampa, pieces of yak meat and butter. It is famously known as Milarepa’s prominent diet when on solitary meditation in caves and mountain retreats.
Butter tea and sweet teas are yet another important beverage in the life of Tibetans. Families will start their day with Butter tea at home and others with sweet tea at local tea shops. Butter tea is made with butter and strong concentration of tea which comes in a shape of bricks. It taste rather salt than sweet, like tsampa it could take some time to get use to it. Due to strong butterly taste of it, it is common that foreigner could feel little headache or stomach upset after few cups of it. In Lhasa, many family would use mixer machines to make butter nowadays which is more convenient than wooden butter churner. However in countryside or in villages, families would use wooden butter churner to make butter tea which is believed to be more delicious. Sweet tea is very common in almost every local Tibetan restaurant , it is served in different size of thermos flask rather in a glass or cup.
Tibetan Yak jerky is perhaps the most delicious of what Tibetan has to offer so far. Like Tsampa , it is convenient for the pilgrims and nomads , you will often see them chewing it along with a bowl of Tsampa and butter tea. Family members at villages and countryside would send a bag full of Yak jerky to their relatives in Lhasa besides dry yak cheese and butter , it is considered that homemade jerky is more delicious and healthier which don’t have any added preservatives, msg and flavours. Most of the Tibetan families will have a basin full of jerkies make of Yak and sheep on their table for the guest at their home, specially during Losar Tibetan new year. It is best to serve jerkies with hot chili sauces.
Momo is one of the most favourite Tibetan dishes, it is said that Tibetan momo is the origin of all sorts of dumplings across Indian sub continent and Himalayan regions. Momo is mostly serve at family gatherings or at parties at home. It takes fair amount of work to prepare momo and more easy to serve at gathering along with bone soup and hot chili sauce. Momo can be made in few different shapes however it is bit tricky and takes some time to know how to make it. It start with a dough made from white wheat, by making a small flat round shape dough with the help of round cup or seal of the flask, properly minced meat along with onions, some salts and bit of edible oil hence the juice of meat in momo.
Embark on an Epic Trekking or Hiking Adventure in Tibet
Introduction: Tibet, the roof of the world, is a land of unparalleled beauty and serenity. With its majestic peaks, pristine glaciers, and rolling meadows, it is a dream destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Trekking and hiking in Tibet offers a unique opportunity to explore this mystic land and experience its rich culture and history. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there is a trail in Tibet that will suit your skill level and interest.
“Trekking in Tibet: Exploring the Beauty and Mystery of the Roof of the World” Tibet offers a diverse range of trekking options, from easy hikes to challenging high altitude climbs. Here are some of the most popular trekking routes in Tibet:
-Lhasa to Everest Base Camp: This classic trek takes you from the heart of Tibet’s capital to the base of the world’s highest peak. The journey offers stunning views of the Himalayas and a glimpse into the daily lives of the Tibetan people.
-Kailash Manasarovar: This sacred pilgrimage takes you to the Mount Kailash, a revered site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The trek is a demanding one but the reward is a stunning view of the mountain and a dip in the holy Manasarovar Lake.
-Mount Everest North Face Trek: This trek offers a unique perspective of Mount Everest and is a great option for experienced hikers. It takes you to the northern base camp of Everest and provides stunning views of the mountain’s north face.
“Discover the Rich Culture and History of Tibet through Hiking” Tibet is not just a land of natural beauty, but also a rich cultural and historical destination. Hiking in Tibet offers a unique opportunity to explore the Tibetan way of life and discover its ancient history. Some popular cultural and historical hikes in Tibet include:
-Yamdrok Tso: This easy hike takes you around the beautiful Yamdrok Tso, a sacred lake in Tibet. The trail offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, as well as a glimpse into the daily life of the Tibetan people.
-Samye Monastery Trek: This trek takes you to the historic Samye Monastery, the first Buddhist monastery in Tibet. The trail offers stunning views of the valley and the monastery, as well as a chance to learn about the rich cultural and religious heritage of Tibet.
“Frequently Asked Questions about Tibet Trekking & Hiking”
Q: What is the best time to go trekking in Tibet? A: The best time to go trekking in Tibet is from April to October when the weather is clear and warm.
Q: Do I need to be in good physical shape to go trekking in Tibet? A: Yes, it is recommended to be in good physical shape as some of the trails can be challenging and high altitude.
Q: What kind of equipment do I need for trekking in Tibet? A: You will need sturdy hiking boots, a warm and waterproof jacket, a good backpack, and a comfortable sleeping bag. You can also bring trekking poles, a hat, and gloves if you prefer.
Q: What kind of food and water can I expect on the trail? A: You will be provided with basic food and water during the trek. The food is usually simple and nutritious, such as rice, noodles, and vegetables
Tibet, known as the roof of the world, is a place of breathtaking beauty and spiritual significance. With its towering peaks, lush valleys, and rich cultural heritage, Tibet offers a unique travel experience unlike any other. If you’re planning a trip to this mystical land, there are a few things you should know. In this ultimate travel guide, we’ll explore all the essential information you need to make your trip to Tibet a success.
Planning Your Trip to Tibet
Before you begin your journey to Tibet, there are a few key things you need to plan and consider. Firstly, you’ll need to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit, which is required for all visitors to the region. This can be obtained through a travel agency or your tour operator. You’ll also need to consider the best time to visit Tibet, as the weather and conditions can greatly impact your travel experience. The best time to visit Tibet is from April to October, when the weather is warm and dry.
Getting to Tibet
There are several ways to get to Tibet, including by air, train, and road. The quickest and most convenient way to get to Tibet is by air, with several flights departing daily from major cities in China. The train journey to Tibet is also a popular option, offering stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains along the way. If you’re planning a road trip to Tibet, you’ll need to be prepared for a long and challenging journey, as the roads are often rough and winding.
Exploring Tibet
Tibet is a place of incredible beauty, with breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries, and a rich cultural heritage. Some of the must-visit sights in Tibet include the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Mount Everest. If you’re interested in experiencing Tibetan culture, you can visit local villages, attend traditional festivals, and try some of the region’s delicious food.
Staying in Tibet
There are a variety of accommodation options available in Tibet, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. When choosing your accommodation, consider your budget, travel style, and the location of the hotel. If you’re planning a spiritual pilgrimage, you may want to stay at a monastery or nunnery, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and learn more about Tibetan Buddhism.
Conclusion
Tibet is a place of incredible beauty and spiritual significance, offering a unique travel experience unlike any other. Whether you’re looking to explore its stunning landscapes, learn about its rich cultural heritage, or immerse yourself in the local culture, Tibet is a must-visit destination for any traveler. With its towering peaks, lush valleys, and fascinating history, Tibet is truly a place like no other.
The Tibet Travel Permit which is also known as TTP, is an entry license for the foreigners to visit Tibet. It is issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau which is also known as TTB. Travel permit and China visa are two different things, there are not exactly the same thing. Travel permit can be applied once your china visa is obtained.
Any travellers are not allowed to visit Tibet Autonomous Region only with visa. Travel permit is needed which can be obtained by booking your tours with travel agencies beforehand. However, getting travel permit is not difficult as it sounds, with the right agencies preferably local agencies based in Lhasa which can take up to one week to two weeks to complete the process of Travel Permit.
To apply for Travel Permit, we only need your passport copy and china visa copies. Once your tour is booked with us with confirmed itinerary in Tibet, we can take care of this complicated process.
What does a Tibet Travel Permit look like?
Tibet travel permit is a copy of two pages. First one includes the details of your travel destination and dates along with approved stamps from different offices of tourism bureau.
Important note is that you are allowed to travel within the dates mentions in the permit and to the places which are listed in the permit. So, these details should be correct and according to your travel schedule.
Second pages include personal details such as your name, date of birth, gender, nationality, your profession and passport number.
Very Important note is that these details should be filled with right information especially your name and passport number. Some common mistakes that could happened are the Letter O and Number 0 in your names and passport number.
Other than travel permit, you will need Military area travel permit when you need to visit places such as Mount Kailash. This can be done along with travel permit process, there is no hassles in it.
Some simple steps to apply for TTP
Step1: You can book your tour with us whether it is a private tour or a group tour.
Step2: You can send copies of your passport and China visa via emails.
Step3: In case of covid-19 issues,
Screenshot of current residence in your city’s green health code.
Negative covid test result of within 48 hours
Proof of employment clear photo
Upon getting your travel permit, you can send it to your hotels in china on time.
Note : These requirements are only needed if the covid restrict follows.
We have created this particular tour for travelers who has enough time to tour around with their family, especially for kids. This 10 days itinerary has a really good feedback from our customers. It is not a difficult tour however with lots of items on the plate.
Unlike any other designed tour, this 10 days central Tibet group tour allows to visit Samye monastery which is the first Buddhist and Nyingma monastery in Tibet founded by Guru Padmasambhava in the year of 779.
Tsedang which has the first ever built palace in Tibet for the first king of Tibet during the turn of 7th and 8th century.
Other popular sights are Yamdrok, Kumbum monastery at Gyantse, Namtso lake which is also called Sky lake.
Songtsan team is solely based in Lhasa. Our Tibetan guides and drivers are also based in Lhasa. From last more than 10 years, our only goal is to provide authentic Tibetan tour service, that means every word we say and steps we take has the touch of local Tibetan essence. It is to consider the very expectation of your visit to a place rich in culture and history. Our reviews will justify that all our guides, drivers and sale’s team have hospitality at their heart. We are 24 hours day in and out at your service.
Kumbum chorten, Tashi lunpu monastery, local free market
Tashi Choedar
Day7
Shigatse to Namtso lake 380km 5hrs approx.
Nyenchen Thangla pass,Tashi dor monastery
Local guesthouse
Day8
Namtso to Lhasa
Yangpachen hotspring (fees own your own)
Shangbala
Day9
Free day in Lhasa
Home dinner
Shangbala
Day10
Departure
Drive to airport/train station
Itinerary Detail:
Day1: Arrival in Lhasa: Acclimatization
Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar airport, our guide and driver will be waiting for you at the exit gate, with your name board. Tashi Delek is probably the first Tibetan word you will hear upon arrival, it is an endearing gesture of welcoming our guest followed by offering a white scarf which is called Khata in Tibetan.
It is about 70kms from the airport to the old city Lhasa which will take 45 minutes to 1hrs depending on the traffic. This short trip in your car will allow you to have a short glimpse at the Yarlung river/ Brahmaputra river and close view at the majestic Potala palace.
Check into your hotel, first day is crucial for the travelers to have a good rest at their hotel, acclimatize the environment.
Day2: Lhasa highlights: Jokhang temple, Barkhor street, Sera monastery
Breakfast will be served at your hotel from 7:30am to 10.30am.
Your guide will pick you up at the hotel to visit Jokhang temple which is not more than 5 minutes’ walk from your hotel. Jokhang temple is located at the center of old city Lhasa and has been very important location for both and religious and business
Center of Tibet in early years.
Barkhor street is approximately 15-20 minutes’ walk around the Jokhang temple. Local pilgrimage will be walking along with their prayer wheels in their hand in a clockwise. The street is filled many shops and now has become a shopping center.
Walking around Barkhor street will be a pleasant experience to see many Tibetan local devotees on their prostration and colorful culture of people from different part of Tibet. After lunch, there is debate session of Sera monks which will start around 3pm in the Sera courtyard. The last sight of the day is Sera monastery which was built in 15th Century by The Jamchen Choji Sakya Yeshi who was a disciple of Tsongkapa the founder of Gelukpa sect, one of four schools in Tibetan Buddhism.
Morning visit to the palace is as refreshing as jogging alongside the lake with cool breeze and breathe. After checking in at the gate, stairs and steps will take you higher towards the Potala place which has white palace and red palace. White palace was built to attend official matters and red palace was built to attend for religious matter.
Potala palace was initially laid its foundation by 33rd King of Tibet Songtsan Gampo in 7th Century and later rebuilt by 5th Dalai Lama in 17th Century.
Make sure to rest once a while during the visit, every stair is worth the effort for the beautiful bird eye view of Lhasa and its every rooms and chambers inside the palace.
Day4: Lhasa-Samye-Tsedang
Its takes not more than 3 hrs from Lhasa to Samye monastery, stopping by Dorji drak monastery en route to Samye monastery. The monastery is located adjacent to the rocky hill and gives beautiful of lake on the otherside of the hill.
It will be a quick pleasant visit and about one-hour drive from there to Samye monastery. You can have lunch at the monastery restaurant or restaurant nearby for Samye monastery is a very big monastery with a vast campus filled with beautiful flowers. Samye monastery was founded by Guru Padmasambhava in 779 during the King Trisong Detsen. It is the first Buddhist and Nyingma monastery in Tibet. Monastery is located in the Chimpu valley next to Hepori hill in Yarlung river. Monastery is laid out on the shape of giant Madala, in its center lies the main temple representing the legendary Mount Meru. In corners, there are 4 stupa/chortens- white, red, green and black.
Yumbu lakhang at Tsedang is the first palace built in Tibet for the first king of Tibet Nyetri Tsenpo. This old palace was recently renovated. Upon reaching there, it has the beautiful view of Tsedang ground.
Day5: Tsedang to Gyangtse
It is about 5 to 6 hrs drive. First stop is at Yamdrok lake, Yamdrok is about 2:30-3 hrs drive of about 110km from Lhasa via Gambala pass (4790m).
This holy lake is also called Yamdrok Yumtso in Tibetan. The color of the lake is turquoise, and it has the most beautiful view of the mountains and lake enclosed by an ever-blue sky. The length of the river is 72km, which goes side by side with the main road to Karola glacier which is close to 1hr drive further down.
Second stop is at Karola glacier which is one of Tibet three major continental glaciers located at the boundary of Nangarze county.
If time permits, walking around Gyangtse fort or kora in the evening is quiet and peaceful, whole kora will take more or less than an hour.
Day6: Gyangtse to Shigatse
Morning visit to Gyangtse Kumbum Pelkor chorten monastery. Kum-bum means one hundred thousand holy images. It was built by Gyangtse prince in the year 1427 with nine levels and 77 chapels.
This stupa is unique three-dimensional mandala meant to portray the Buddhist cosmos. Upon reaching Shigatse, you can stop by for a lunch at Shigatse before heading to the monastery. Tashi lunpu monastery was founded by 1st Dalai Lama in 1447, it is traditional monastic seat of successive Panchen Lama. Kora around the monastery will take around one hour and will have beautiful bird eye view of old and new city of Shigatse.
Day7: Shigatse to Namtso lake
Namtso lake is also known as Sky lake. It lies at an elevation of 4718m. It is the largest Salt Lake in Tibet Autonomous Region located between the border of Damxiong county of Lhasa prefecture and Baingoin county of Nagqu prefecture.
Day8: Namtso to Lhasa
It is about 4hrs drive of about 250km from Namtso to Lhasa via Lagenla pass (5190m). This holy lake is one of the four holy lakes in Tibet and also the highest saline lake in the world. This road trip of 4 hrs offers the spectacular view of the snowcapped Nyenchen Thangla mountain ranges where in the valley and on the grassland, Tibetan nomads living their simple life in tent with their yak and sheep grazing nearby.
After visiting Tashi Dor monastery at Namtso and walking around the lakeshore, we will drive back to Lhasa and give you enough time to rest and prepare yourself for the evening home dinner.
Day9: Free day in Lhasa
Today you can walk around for shopping or to take pictures.
We will arrange home dinner at home with our team in the evening. We have a special cook in our team who will prepare local Tibetan dishes, not too greasy not too spicy. We will also teach you how to make Yak momo. For this delightful evening, conversations are mainly on how we work as a team, your experience in Tibet and feedback on how to improve our service.
Day10: Departure
As per your flight or train schedule, your guide and driver will pick you up from the hotel and see you off on time. This is the time we always hope in our heart that you had a wonderful time during your visit and our service are up to your satisfaction.
We appreciate for the feedbacks on TripAdvisor which will allow us to continue what we do and what we always try to achieve, which is to provide a real authentic Tibetan tour service in Tibet for all the oversea travelers who has dreamt of coming to Tibet.
The service Includes:
– All necessary travel permits to Tibet;
– Entrance ticket fees for all the sight spots listed in the program
– Private transportation in Tibet: 8 to 15 seated minivan with experienced local Tibetan driver.
-Vehicle and guide entrance for the Everest Nature Reserve
– Private guide: English speaking local Tibetan guide;
– Lodging: Comfortable Four-star hotel in Lhasa and Shigtse
– Oxygen cylinder for the group;
– Lodging and meals for guide and drivers;
– Two bottles of mineral water per person everyday.
– Liability travel insurance
The service excludes:
– Travel insurance covers trip cancellation and emergency evacuation(recommended);
– Expenses of a personal nature (alcoholic beverages, laundry, phone call, etc.);
– International and domestic flight/train. (Note: we accept flights and train tickets bookings in advance,
– Meals – lunches and dinners, breakfasts at the guesthouses (Averagely a meal in Tibet cost USD7 per person);
6 Days of cultural tour will start from Lhasa by visiting major sites in Lhasa, moving towards Shigatse though beautiful Yamdrok lake which is also called turquoise lake for the color resemblance of the lake which is 72km in length. Stopping by Karola glacier, Kumbum stupa at Gyantse. Visiting Tashi lunpu, local free markets in Shigtse and kora around Tashi lunpu monastery which is an easy walk with the local pilgrims, rest stop with the eye of old and new city of Shigatse.
Returning back to Lhasa, we will arrange home dinner at home with our team in the evening.
Songtsan team is solely based in Lhasa. Our Tibetan guides and drivers are also based in Lhasa. From last more than 10 years, our only goal is to provide authentic Tibetan tour service, that means every word we say and steps we take has the touch of local Tibetan essence. It is to consider the very expectation of your visit to a place rich in culture and history. Our reviews will justify that all our guides, drivers and sale’s team have hospitality at their heart. We are 24 hours day in and out at your service.
Days
Trip Outline
Activity
Accommodation
Day1
Pick up and transfer to hotel.
Rest well to acclimatize
Shangbala
Day2
Lhasa sightseeing
Jokhang temple, Barkhor street, Potala palace
Shangbala
Day3
Lhasa sightseeing
Sera monastery, Drepung monastery, Home dinner
Shangbala
Day4
Lhasa to Shigatse (3900m) 350km 7hrs approx.
Yamdrok lake, Karola glacier, Kumbum stupa
Tashi Choedar
Day5
Shigatse to Lhasa (3680m) 270km 6hrs
Tashi lunpu monastery, Kora around monastery, Home dinner
Shangbala
Day6
Departure
Drive to airport/train station
Itinerary Detail:
Day1: Arrival in Lhasa: Acclimatization
Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar airport, our guide and driver will be waiting for you at the exit gate, with your name board. Tashi Delek is probably the first Tibetan word you will hear upon arrival, it is an endearing gesture of welcoming our guest followed by offering a white scarf which is called Khata in Tibetan.
It is about 70kms from the airport to the old city Lhasa which will take 45 minutes to 1hrs depending on the traffic. This short trip in your car will allow you to have a short glimpse at the Yarlung river/ Brahmaputra river and close view at the majestic Potala palace.
Check into your hotel, first day is crucial for the travelers to have a good rest at their hotel, acclimatize the environment.
Day2: Lhasa highlights: Jokhang temple, Barkhor street, Sera monastery
Breakfast will be served at your hotel from 7:30am to 10.30am.
Your guide will pick you up at the hotel to visit Jokhang temple which is not more than 5 minutes’ walk from your hotel. Jokhang temple is located at the center of old city Lhasa and has been very important location for both and religious and business
Center of Tibet in early years.
Barkhor street is approximately 15-20 minutes’ walk around the Jokhang temple. Local pilgrimage will be walking along with their prayer wheels in their hand in a clockwise. The street is filled many shops and now has become a shopping center.
Walking around Barkhor street will be a pleasant experience to see many Tibetan local devotees on their prostration and colorful culture of people from different part of Tibet. After lunch, there is debate session of Sera monks which will start around 3pm in the Sera courtyard. The last sight of the day is Sera monastery which was built in 15th Century by The Jamchen Choji Sakya Yeshi who was a disciple of Tsongkapa the founder of Gelukpa sect, one of four schools in Tibetan Buddhism.
Morning visit to the palace is as refreshing as jogging alongside the lake with cool breeze and breathe. After checking in at the gate, stairs and steps will take you higher towards the Potala place which has white palace and red palace. White palace was built to attend official matters and red palace was built to attend for religious matter.
Potala palace was initially laid its foundation by 33rd King of Tibet Songtsan Gampo in 7th Century and later rebuilt by 5th Dalai Lama in 17th Century.
Make sure to rest once a while during the visit, every stair is worth the effort for the beautiful bird eye view of Lhasa and its every rooms and chambers inside the palace.
Day4: Lhasa to Shigatse
Leaving Lhasa in the morning has its charm of starting your day along with the rising sun brightening the beautiful day on your way out.
First stop is at Yamdrok lake, Yamdrok is about 2:30-3 hrs drive of about 110km from Lhasa via Gambala pass (4790m).
This holy lake is also called Yamdrok Yumtso in Tibetan. The color of the lake is turquoise, and it has the most beautiful view of the mountains and lake enclosed by an ever-blue sky. The length of the river is 72km, which goes side by side with the main road to Karola glacier which is close to 1hr drive further down.
Second stop is at Karola glacier which is one of Tibet three major continental glaciers located at the boundary of Nangarze county.
Third stop is at Gyantse town’s Kumbum Pelkor chorten monastery. Kum-bum means one hundred thousand holy images. It was built by Gyangtse prince in the year 1427 with nine levels and 77 chapels.
This stupa is unique three-dimensional mandala meant to portray the Buddhist cosmos.
Day5: Shigatse to Lhasa
Morning visit to Tashi lunpu monastery. Tashi lunpu monastery was founded by 1st Dalai Lama in 1447, it is tradition monastic seat of successive Panchen Lama. Short hike around the monastery with local pilgrims will be a pleasant walk to see the view of old and new city of Shigatse.
In the evening, we will arrange home dinner at home with our team. We have a special cook in our team who will prepare local Tibetan dishes, not too greasy not too spicy. We will also teach you how to make Yak momo. For this delightful evening, conversations are mainly on how we work as a team, your experience in Tibet and feedback on how to improve our service.
Day6: Departure:
As per your flight or train schedule, your guide and driver will pick you up from the hotel and see you off on time. This is the time we always hope in our heart that you had a wonderful time during your visit and our service are up to your satisfaction.
We appreciate for the feedbacks on TripAdvisor which will allow us to continue what we do and what we always try to achieve, which is to provide a real authentic Tibetan tour service in Tibet for all the oversea travelers who has dreamt of coming to Tibet.
The service Includes:
– All necessary travel permits to Tibet;
– Entrance ticket fees for all the sight spots listed in the program
– Private transportation in Tibet: 8 to 15 seated minivan with experienced local Tibetan driver.
– Private guide: English speaking local Tibetan guide;
– Lodging: Comfortable Four-star hotel in Lhasa and Shigatse
– Oxygen cylinder for the group;
– Lodging and meals for guide and drivers;
– Two bottles of mineral water per person every day.
– Liability travel insurance
The service excludes:
– Travel insurance covers trip cancellation and emergency evacuation(recommended);
– Expenses of a personal nature (alcoholic beverages, laundry, phone call, etc.);
– International and domestic flight/train. (Note: we accept flights and train tickets bookings in advance,
– Meals – lunches and dinners, breakfasts at the guesthouses (Averagely a meal in Tibet cost USD7 per person);
This timeframe of 5 days tour will allow you to visit some magnificent sights in Lhasa and a daytrip to beautiful Namtso lake and Tashi Dor monastery.
Songtsan team is solely based in Lhasa. Our Tibetan guides and drivers are also based in Lhasa. From last more than 10 years, our only goal is to provide authentic Tibetan tour service, that means every word we say and steps we take has the touch of local Tibetan essence. It is to consider the very expectation of your visit to a place rich in culture and history. Our reviews will justify that all our guides, drivers and sale’s team have hospitality at their heart. We are 24 hours day in and out at your service.
Days
Trip Outline
Activity
Accommodation
Day1
Pick up and transfer to hotel..
Rest well to acclimatize
Shangbala
Day2
Lhasa sightseeing
Jokhang temple, Barkhor street, Potala palace
Shangbala
Day3
Lhasa sightseeing
Sera monastery, Drepung monastery, Home dinner
Shangbala
Day4
Daytrip
Namtso lake, Tashi Dor monastery, Home dinner
Shangbala
Day5
Departure
Drive to airport/train station
Itinerary Detail:
Day1: Arrival in Lhasa: Acclimatization
Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar airport, our guide and driver will be waiting for you at the exit gate, with your name board. Tashi Delek is probably the first Tibetan word you will hear upon arrival, it is an endearing gesture of welcoming our guest followed by offering a white scarf which is called Khata in Tibetan.
It is about 70kms from the airport to the old city Lhasa which will take 45 minutes to 1hrs depending on the traffic. This short trip in your car will allow you to have a short glimpse at the Yarlung river/ Brahmaputra river and close view at the majestic Potala palace.
Check into your hotel, first day is crucial for the travelers to have a good rest at their hotel, acclimatize the environment.
Day2: Lhasa highlights: Jokhang temple, Barkhor street, Sera monastery
Breakfast will be served at your hotel from 7:30am to 10.30am.
Your guide will pick you up at the hotel to visit Jokhang temple which is not more than 5 minutes’ walk from your hotel. Jokhang temple is located at the center of old city Lhasa and has been very important location for both and religious and business
Center of Tibet in early years.
Barkhor street is approximately 15-20 minutes’ walk around the Jokhang temple. Local pilgrimage will be walking along with their prayer wheels in their hand in a clockwise. The street is filled many shops and now has become a shopping center.
Walking around Barkhor street will be a pleasant experience to see many Tibetan local devotees on their prostration and colorful culture of people from different part of Tibet. After lunch, there is debate session of Sera monks which will start around 3pm in the Sera courtyard. The last sight of the day is Sera monastery which was built in 15th Century by The Jamchen Choji Sakya Yeshi who was a disciple of Tsongkapa the founder of Gelukpa sect, one of four schools in Tibetan Buddhism.
Morning visit to the palace is as refreshing as jogging alongside the lake with cool breeze and breathe. After checking in at the gate, stairs and steps will take you higher towards the Potala place which has white palace and red palace. White palace was built to attend official matters and red palace was built to attend for religious matter.
Potala palace was initially laid its foundation by 33rd King of Tibet Songtsan Gampo in 7th Century and later rebuilt by 5th Dalai Lama in 17th Century.
Make sure to rest once a while during the visit, every stair is worth the effort for the beautiful bird eye view of Lhasa and its every rooms and chambers inside the palace.
Day4: Daytrip to Namtso lake
Leaving Lhasa in the morning has its charm of starting your day along with the rising sun brightening the beautiful day on your way out. Namtso lake is about 4hrs drive of about 250km from Lhasa via Lagenla pass (5190m). This holy lake is one of the four holy lakes in Tibet and also the highest saline lake in the world. This road trip of 4 hrs offers the spectacular view of the snowcapped Nyenchen Thangla mountain ranges where in the valley and on the grassland, Tibetan nomads living their simple life in tent with their yak and sheep grazing nearby.
After visiting Tashi Dor monastery at Namtso and walking around the lakeshore, we will drive back to Lhasa and give you enough time to rest and prepare yourself for the evening home dinner.
We will arrange home dinner at home with our team in the evening. We have a special cook in our team who will prepare local Tibetan dishes, not too greasy not too spicy. We will also teach you how to make Yak momo. For this delightful evening, conversations are mainly on how we work as a team, your experience in Tibet and feedback on how to improve our service.
Day5: Departure:
As per your flight or train schedule, your guide and driver will pick you up from the hotel and see you off on time. This is the time we always hope in our heart that you had a wonderful time during your visit and our service are up to your satisfaction.
We appreciate for the feedbacks on Tripadvisor which will allow us to continue what we do and what we always try to achieve, which is to provide a real authentic Tibetan tour service in Tibet for all the oversea travelers who has dreamt of coming to Tibet.
The service Includes:
– All necessary travel permits to Tibet;
– Entrance ticket fees for all the sight spots listed in the program
– Private transportation in Tibet: 8 to 15 seated mini van with experienced local Tibetan driver.
– Private guide: English speaking local Tibetan guide;
– Lodging: Comfortable Four star hotel in Lhasa
– Oxygen cylinder for the group;
– Lodging and meals for guide and drivers;
– Two bottles of mineral water per person everyday.
– Liability travel insurance
The service excludes:
– Travel insurance covers trip cancellation and emergency evacuation(recommended);
– Expenses of a personal nature (alcoholic beverages, laundry, phone call, etc.);
– International and domestic flight/train. (Note: we accept flights and train tickets bookings in advance,
– Meals – lunches and dinners, breakfasts at the guesthouses (Averagely a meal in Tibet cost USD7 per person);
This time frame of 4 days Lhasa hightlights, walking around in Lhasa with our Tibetan guide who is friendly and well experienced guide will leave you astounded with some of the most beautiful sights and it’s enriched history in Lhasa. This is the perfect small group tour for someone who is looking forward to a quick pleasant visit in Lhasa.
Songtsan team is solely based in Lhasa. Our Tibetan guides and drivers are also based in Lhasa. From last more than 10 years, our only goal is to provide authentic Tibetan tour service, that means every word we say and steps we take has the touch of local Tibetan essence. It is to consider the very expectation of your visit to a place rich in culture and history. Our reviews will justify that all our guides, drivers and sale’s team have hospitality at their heart. We are 24 hours day in and out at your service.
Days
Trip Outline
Activity
Accommodation
Day1
Pick up and transfer to hotel.
Rest well to acclimatize
Shangbala
Day2
Lhasa sightseeing
Jokhang temple, Barkhor street, Potala palace
Shangbala
Day3
Lhasa sightseeing
Sera monastery, Drepung monastery, Home dinner
Shangbala
Day4
Departure
Drive to airport/train station
Itinerary Detail:
Day1: Arrival in Lhasa: Acclimatization
Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar airport, our guide and driver will be waiting for you at the exit gate, with your name board. Tashi Delek is probably the first Tibetan word you will hear upon arrival, it is an endearing gesture of welcoming our guest followed by offering a white scarf which is called Khata in Tibetan.
It is about 70kms from the airport to the old city Lhasa which will take 45 minutes to 1hrs depending on the traffic. This short trip in your car will allow you to have a short glimpse at the Yarlung river/ Brahmaputra river and close view at the majestic Potala palace.
Check into your hotel, first day is crucial for the travelers to have a good rest at their hotel, acclimatize the environment.
Day2: Lhasa highlights: Jokhang temple, Barkhor street, Sera monastery
Breakfast will be served at your hotel from 7:30am to 10.30am.
Your guide will pick you up at the hotel to visit Jokhang temple which is not more than 5 minutes’ walk from your hotel. Jokhang temple is located at the center of old city Lhasa and has been very important location for both and religious and business.
Barkhor street is approximately 15-20 minutes’ walk around the Jokhang temple. Local pilgrimage will be walking along with their prayer wheels in their hand in a clockwise. The street is filled many shops and now has become a shopping center.
Walking around Barkhor street will be a pleasant experience to see many Tibetan local devotees on their prostration and colorful culture of people from different part of Tibet. After lunch, there is debate session of Sera monks which will start around 3pm in the Sera courtyard. The last sight of the day is Sera monastery which was built in 15th Century by The Jamchen Choji Sakya Yeshi who was a disciple of Tsongkapa the founder of Gelukpa sect, one of four schools in Tibetan Buddhism.
Day3: Lhasa highlights: Potala palace, Drepung monastery, Home dinner with our team.
Morning visit to the palace is as refreshing as jogging alongside the lake with cool breeze and breathe. After checking in at the gate, stairs and steps will take you higher towards the Potala place which has white palace and red palace. White palace was built to attend official matters and red palace was built to attend for religious matter.
Potala palace was initially laid its foundation by 33rd King of Tibet Songtsan Gampo in 7th Century and later rebuilt by 5th Dalai Lama in 17th Century.
Make sure to rest once a while during the visit, every stair is worth the effort for the beautiful bird eye view of Lhasa and its every rooms and chambers inside the palace.
We will arrange home dinner at home with our team in the evening. We have a special cook in our team who will prepare local Tibetan dishes, not too greasy not too spicy. We will also teach you how to make Yak momo. For this delightful evening, conversations are mainly on how we work as a team, your experience in Tibet and feedback on how to improve our service.
Day4: Departure:
As per your flight or train schedule, your guide and driver will pick you up from the hotel and see you off on time. This is the time we always hope in our heart that you had a wonderful time during your visit and our service are up to your satisfaction.
We appreciate for the feedbacks on Tripadvisor which will allow us to continue what we do and what we always try to achieve, which is to provide a real authentic Tibetan tour service in Tibet for all the oversea travelers who has dreamt of coming to Tibet.
The service Includes:
– All necessary travel permits to Tibet;
– Entrance ticket fees for all the sight spots listed in the program
– Private transportation in Tibet: 8 to 15 seated mini van with experienced local Tibetan driver.
– Private guide: English speaking local Tibetan guide;
– Lodging: Comfortable Four star hotel in Lhasa
– Oxygen cylinder for the group;
– Lodging and meals for guide and drivers;
– Two bottles of mineral water per person everyday.
– Liability travel insurance
The service excludes:
– Travel insurance covers trip cancellation and emergency evacuation(recommended);
– Expenses of a personal nature (alcoholic beverages, laundry, phone call, etc.);
– International and domestic flight/train.(Note: we accept flights and train tickets bookings in advance,
– Meals – lunches and dinners, breakfasts at the guesthouses (Averagely a meal in Tibet cost USD7 per person);
The best time to travel to Tibet depends on what you want to see and do, as different seasons offer different experiences and weather conditions. In general, the best time to visit Tibet is between April and October, as the weather is relatively mild and dry, making it more comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
April and May are considered some of the best months to visit Tibet, as the temperature starts to warm up, and the wildflowers are in bloom. This is also a good time to visit Mount Everest, as the visibility is usually excellent.
June to September is the summer season in Tibet, and the temperature is warmer and comfortable, making it a good time for trekking, hiking and other outdoor activities.
The October is also a good time to visit, as the weather is still mild and the skies are clear. This is also the time for harvesting and it offers a glimpse of the traditional Tibetan culture.
It’s important to note that temperatures in Tibet can drop significantly at night, especially at high altitudes, so be prepared with warm clothing and gear, regardless of the season. It’s also a good idea to check the local weather forecast and road conditions before your trip, as they can change rapidly in Tibet.
Also, the rainy season starts from July till the end of September which can affect the road condition and flight schedule, and sometimes might cause blockage of the road, it’s better to check before planning a trip.
The cost of traveling to Tibet can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, such as the time of year, the duration of the trip, and the type of accommodation and transportation used. Some estimates for a budget trip to Tibet, including airfare, accommodation, and meals, start around $50-60 per day. However, if you want to stay in nicer accommodations, or take a guided tour, the cost can be significantly higher, sometimes upward of $200-300 per day. Additionally, a Tibet Travel Permit is required for all tourists visiting Tibet. The cost for the permit is about $30-50 depending on the service and agency. Traveling to Tibet might also subject to additional costs, such as Train fare, transportations and guide service and so on. Overall, it’s always better to have a planned budget before going and be ready to be flexible according to the situations.
