Private Tour: Lhasa, Gyantse and Shigaste

Welcome to Lhasa! Upon your arrival at Lhasa airport or train station you will be greeted by your guide and warmly welcomed with a pure white katak scarf (prayer scarf).
The station is on the outskirts of the city whilst the airport is 100km away in the next valley. On the way enjoy the highland views along the Lhasa River and stop occasionally for pictures of local villages. There are no planned activities – rest, relax, drink plenty of water and adjust to the altitude.

Accommodation:
• Tangka Hotel or similar (1 night)
Meals Included:
• There are no meals included today

It's 5 hours journey from Lhasa to Gyantse by Road. 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 explore the small town and take a walk 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

This morning we'll visit Pelkor Choede Monastery, 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. Along the way stop to visit a local Tibetan family to experience the daily Tibetan life.
In the late afternoon join the pilgrims making a kora around Tashilumpo or explore the market.

Accommodation:
• Tashi Choe Ta Hotel or similar (1 night)
Meals Included:
• Breakfast

Start the day with a visit to the Tashilumpo Monastery, home to the Panchen Lamas. Tour the buildings, each with their own intricate decorations, legends and religious imagery.
Then it’s time to drive back to Lhasa, following the Yarlung Tsangpo River.

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

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

Meals Included:
• Breakfast