Lhasa & Holy Lake Namtso Tour

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 (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. As you have just made a sudden ascent to 3,670 meters you will be transferred straight to the hotel. There are no planned activities – rest, relax, drink plenty of water and adjust to the altitude.

Accommodation:
• Tangka Hotel or similar (4 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 will often 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:
• Thangka Hotel or similar (4 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.
Later join pilgrims on their kora circuit around the Barkhor Street and visit the Tangka Academy to appreciate this ancient and intricate form of sacred Buddhist art.

*Potala visit times are assigned when tickets booked so may visit Jokhang first, Potala later depending on ticket time.

Accommodation:
• Thangka Hotel or similar (4 nights)
Meals Included:
• Breakfast

Today is a long day, but well worth it for the scenery along the way and for the incredible beauty of today’s highlight – Namtso. This sacred lake is the highest saltwater lake in the world at 4718m and the second largest in China. Surrounded by white snow mountains the water is crystal blue. Yaks, sheep and local nomads spread across the surrounding grasslands. It is a place sacred for pilgrimage and a paradise for photographers.

Accommodation:
• Thangka Hotel or similar (4 nights)
Meals Included:
• Breakfast

Today is the end of your trip. A transfer to the airport for your departure flight is included.

Meals Included:
• Breakfast