6 Days Lhasa & Namtso Lake Group Tour (G02)

Our staff will greet you at Lhasa Airport/Railway to transfer you to hotel. From Lhasa Airport to downtown Lhasa, usually takes abt 1.5hrs; from Lhasa Railway Station, abt 20mins. After transferred to hotel, the rest of the day you will be free to wander around the city on your own but try not to overtax yourself. The first day’s well-rest is crucial to acclimatize high altitude. Remember to drink lots of water, eat light, and not to shower if you can help it.

Overnight in Lhasa, 3★/4★

Highlights: Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery

In the morning, we will head to Drepung Monastery, which means “Monastery of Rice Heap” in Tibetan. The entire complex is large in scale, with white buildings clustering and covering the mountainside. Drepung Monastery is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery and housed over 10,000 monks at its peak. From the First to the Fifth Dalai Lama, all held their enthronement ceremonies here, and every Dalai Lama has regarded Drepung as their “mother monastery,” making it also the highest-ranking monastery within the Gelug School.

In the afternoon, we will visit Sera Monastery, famous for its unique Buddhist debating sessions. Debating is a traditional practice in Tibetan Buddhism, where monks engage in lively and intense dialogues to discuss Buddhist doctrines through questions and answers. You will have the opportunity to witness this dynamic and intellectual religious practice, experiencing the profound scholarly atmosphere and distinctive monastic culture of Tibetan Buddhism.

Attractions: Potola Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street

Highlights: Potola Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street

Today, you will visit the most famous Potala Palace, which is the cardinal landmark of Tibet and the masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. Potala Palace was the winter palace of successive Dalai lamas. In possession of rich cultural heritage, Potala Palace is known as the "pearl on the roof of the world."

At the top the palace called golden roofs, you can have a bird-eye view of the whole of Lhasa. In the distance there are undulating mountain ranges, the beautiful Lhasa River, tracts of fields, tree-shaded villages and the glistening Jokhang Temple.

At noon, the tour guide will bring you to a good restaurant to have lunch and have a rest. In the afternoon, we will go to visit Jokhang Temple in the center of the Lhasa old town. Jokhang Temple is the most sacred temple in Tibet and it is always bustling with earnest local pilgrims since the early days. After that, you will take a walk around the Barkhor Street - one of the most devotional circuits as well as a crowded central market of Lhasa. Barkhor Street is a very ancient round street surrounding the Jokhang Temple and the locals are always proud of it. As a symbol of Lhasa, it‘s also a must-see place for visitors.

Overnight in Lhasa, 3★/4★

Attractions: Namtso Lake

Highlights: Namtso Lake

Today, you will visit the sacred Namtso Lake, one of Tibet's three holiest lakes and the highest saltwater lake in the world at 4,718 meters. Known as the "Heavenly Lake" in Tibetan, Namtso's breathtaking turquoise waters stretch endlessly against a backdrop of the snow-capped Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains, creating one of Tibet's most awe-inspiring natural wonders. This spiritual site has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries, with devout Buddhists circumambulating its shores and meditating in nearby caves.

You'll walk along the pristine northern shore where the lake meets spectacular limestone formations called the "Stone Forest." Watch for migratory birds and the occasional herd of wild antelope as you breathe in the crisp mountain air. At Tashi Dor peninsula, you'll see colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind against the lake's mesmerizing blue hues - a perfect photo opportunity. The panoramic views from the shoreline encompass sweeping vistas of the Himalayas, with the water's surface perfectly mirroring the sky and clouds.

Highlights: Reting Monastery; Reting National Forest Park

Today, we depart from the shores of Lake Namtso and begin the scenic drive back towards Lhasa. En route, we will make special stops at two significant cultural and natural sites nestled in a beautiful river valley.

Our first stop is the historic Reting Monastery. Founded in 1057 AD, this monastery holds profound importance as the original seat of the Kadampa tradition, which later evolved into the dominant Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. Surrounded by the Reting Forest, the monastery is a place where its ancient chapels and peaceful atmosphere offer a deep sense of spiritual heritage and tranquility.

Then, we will take a gentle walk in the Reting Forest National Park . This protected area features a unique ecosystem of lush ancient trees, meadows, and a meandering river, creating a refreshing contrast to the high-altitude plains. The peaceful forest walk provides an excellent opportunity to stretch your legs, breathe the fresh air, and connect with nature before continuing the journey. In the afternoon, we will complete the drive back to Lhasa for your overnight stay.

Your 6-day Lhasa & Namtso Lake Group Tour ends today. After breakfasts, you will be free for the morning. Our staff will collect you at your hotel around noon to transfer to Lhasa Airport. For Lhasa Railway, we will arrange free individual transport.

End of tour!