Devout Buddhist Appreciation

This morning, we will start with the visit to Drepung Monastery. It is the largest temple of Tibetan Buddhism with a history of over 600 years. Row upon row of white and red halls line the hill which look even more sacred under the blue sky and white clouds. Inside the monastery, we can appreciate many Tibetan-style buildings with painted beams and girders.

Then we will head for Sera Monastery, one of three most important Tibetan monasteries which is famous for its debate among monks about Buddhist scriptures. Then we will take a leisurely stroll in Norbulingka Park, a typical Tibetan garden with beautiful scenery and precious cultural relics.

Meals: Western buffet breakfast, Lunch

Spend the morning exploring the sacred Potala Palace. Built along the mountain, it is the largest castle-like Tibetan palace complex of its kind in the world. It was built over 1,300 years ago and is a precious treasure house of Tibetan religion, politics, history and art. After that, we will set off to the Tibet Museum where we can learn about the origin, history, culture and folk customs of Tibet.

After lunch, we will continue our visit to Jokhang Temple, the spiritual center for Tibetans. There are many faithful pilgrims coming from faraway places to kowtow on all fours and say their prayers. Then we will stroll around the Barkhor Street. Developed along with the Jokhang Temple, it is the most prosperous street in Tibet and famous circling site for pilgrims. After it, we will visit a Nunnery to observe the spiritual life of nuns there.

Meals: Western buffet breakfast, Lunch

Today we will drive to Gyangtse and visit Yamdrok Yumtso Lake as well as Karola Glacier on the way. Yamdrok Yumtso Lake is one of Tibet’s three holy lakes and the largest lake on the north slope of the Himalayas. The lake looks jewel-like in the bright sunlight studded with numerous grassy islands each alive with wild birds. Many streams wind their way to the lake from permanently snow-caped mountains. One can feel the charm and grandeur of nature through the Karola Glacier which is as high as the blue sky.

Upon arrival at Gyangtse, we have the opportunity for a short rest at the hotel. Then we will go to Gyangtse Old Street where we could see lots of traditional Tibetan dwellings and witness the harmonious lifestyle of the hospitable residents.

Meals: Western buffet breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, we will pay a visit to Palchor Monastery, a famous temple with three sects of Tibetan Buddhism coexisting harmoniously with each other. There are unique structured towers adorned with delicate murals as well as Buddha statues made of clay, copper and gold.

After that, we will take a one-hour drive to Shigatse and later check into the hotel for a short rest. Then we will go to visit Tashihunpo Monastery, a magnificent temple that is comparable to Potala Palace. We could see the large statue of Maitreya Buddha decorated with many treasures and the tombs of the Panchen Lamas. At the end of the day, we will go to New Palace of Panchen to learn about the daily life of a Panchen Lama and appreciate the cultural relics as well as art treasures over there.

Meals: Western buffet breakfast, Lunch

Today we will drive back to Lhasa. Tibet is huge and there is usually a long ride between two regions, but we are able to immerse ourselves in the amazing natural scenery along the way. On our arrival at Lhasa, we will check into a cozy hotel and relax for the rest of the day.

Meals: Western buffet breakfast, Lunch

At the end of the trip, our guide will accompany you to the airport and see you off there before you board the homebound flight. We hope you will have had a wonderful time with us and wish you a safe journey home.

Meals: Western buffet breakfast