Tibet Express

Welcome to Lhasa where your guide will warmly welcome you with a pure white katak (prayer) scarf. The station is on the outskirts of the city whilst the airport is 100km away in the next valley. There are no planned activities – rest, relax, drink plenty of water and adjust to the altitude, 3685m.

Accommodation:
• Shang Bala Hotel or similar (3 nights)
Meals Included:
• There are no meals included today

Today visit the two largest university monasteries in Tibet – Drepung and Sera, both built on the lower slopes of the hills north of Lhasa. Drepung was founded by one of Tsongkhapa’s disciples in 1416 and once had up to 10,000 monks. The main assembly hall is incredible and you may have the chance to hear monks chanting here. Nearby is Nechung, temple of the Oracle, adviser to the Dalai Lamas and powerful controller of Tibet’s destiny. In the afternoon visit Sera where the monks practice lively philosophical debating in the afternoons (except Sundays).

Accommodation:
• Shang Bala Hotel or similar (3 nights)
Meals Included:
• Breakfast

One of the most iconic structures ever built; the Potala Palace was the seat of the Tibetan government and winter residence of the successive Dalai Lamas. A visit is an awe-inspiring experience. Perched 130meters above the city, it is divided into two parts, the White Palace (secular) and the Red Palace (religious - home to chapels, shrines, and tombs of Dalai Lamas). Although you must stick with your guide whilst exploring, this in no way lessens the impact of seeing what is a true architectural wonder.
Later, visit the Jokhang; the spiritual heart and most sacred temple of Tibet which always attracts steady waves of pilgrims. Spend some time exploring this large World-Heritage listed site and learn of its rich history. According to legend, the temple was built over a lake after many failed attempts to build monasteries in other nearby locations. Feast your eyes on the golden Buddha which stands in the center. After the visit join the pilgrims walking around the Barkhor Street (in a clockwise direction) considered a sacred kora by Tibetans.
*Potala visit times are assigned when tickets booked so may visit Jokhang first, Potala later depending on ticket time.

Accommodation:
• Shang Bala Hotel or similar (3 nights)
Meals Included:
• Breakfast

Today we will drive to Gyantse and there will be many photo stops as this is a spectacular route. From the top of the Khamba-la (4750m) the views of the beautiful turquoise lake, Yamdrok Tso, are superb. Descent to skirt the lake before climbing again to the Karo-la (5045m) for a close-up view of NojinGangzang glacier.
Arriving in Gyantse take a walk around to explore the town and hike up to the Dzong (fort) from where you will have fantastic views of the town and surrounding countryside.

Accommodation:
• Gyantse Hotel or similar (1 night)
Meals Included:
• Breakfast

Pelkhor Choede Monastery was founded by the King of Gyantse in the C15th. It does not belong to a specific tradition of Tibetan Buddhism and whilst much reduced from its original size it remains a very active center. Within the complex stands Gyantse Kumbum (meaning 100,000 images), it is an eight-story structure containing a seemingly endless series of tiny chapels full of Buddhist images – Buddhas, demons, protectors, and saints.
A short drive through small villages to Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest city. Upon arrival, we will first visit the Tashilumpo Monastery, home to the Panchen Lamas. Tour the buildings, each with their own intricate decorations, legends and religious imagery. After that, you can opt to do a “kora” around the monastery or visit the local market.

Accommodation:
• Tangka hotel Shigatse or similar (1 night)
Meals Included:
• Breakfast

It is approximately 6 hours drive back to Lhasa, following the Yarlung Tsangpo River. The rest of the day is free for you for some shopping, join the locals in a teahouse or follow pilgrims circuiting around the Barkhor.

Accommodation:
• Shang Bala Hotel or similar (1 night)
Meals Included:
• Breakfast

Today is free and includes a transfer to the airport for your departure.

Meals Included:
• Breakfast