central tibet 6 Days

Introduction
With an average altitude of more than 3,500m, Tibet can truly be described as the roof of the world and its capital Lhasa is the heart and soul of this fascinating place. Despite the Chinese influence, it remains a city of wonders, from the splendours of the Potala Palace, which dominates the skyline, to the bustle of the local markets. Then of course there are the temples and monasteries such as the Jokhang and the Drepung Monasteries where one can soak up the atmosphere of the rich Buddhist culture.

We stay in the best traditional Tibetan hotel in Lhasa, centre of the city, close to the major attractions. With so much to see and explore in Lhasa, this will truly be an unforgettable experience.

Leaving Lhasa in our comfortable Toyota Landcruiser 4 wheel-drive, we’ll set off to our adventure tour through this amazing country, staying in the best traditional hotels Tibet has to offer. In the towns of Gyantse and Shigatse we will explore further monasteries and fully immerse ourselves in the Buddhist culture.

Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Lhasa (3660m)
You will be met at Gonggar Airport by your Tibetan guide. After immigration formalities take a 1.5-hour drive along 93 km road leading to Lhasa lying at an altitude of 3650 meters. It’s advisable to rest and take it easy for the remainder of the day due to Lhasa’s altitude.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Lhasa
Once you relinquish your delicious breakfast, you straightaway make arrangements for your sightseeing tour. Your experienced guide accompanies you to the famous monasteries of Tibet. On your awe-inspiring visit to SERA MONASTERY, you are introduced to the important aspects of Buddhism. After lunch, you once again continue exploring Tibetan ancient cultures and civilizations as you pay a visit to NORBULINGKA, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama. Jokhang temple provides yet another exciting and educative tour. Wandering around BARKHOR MARKETS is another major highlight of the day. Finally, you head back to your hotel for relaxation and refreshments.

Day 3: Sightseeing in Lhasa
On this day you get more acquainted with the mystiques of Lhasa. In the morning after breakfast, you will set off to view majestic POTALA PALACE towering above city of Lhasa. You get to witness unique, pristine and overwhelming array of intricate Tibetan murals, temples, stupas, and tombs of eight past Dalai Lamas from a perfect vantage point. Ancient Tibetan cultures come alive with your every exploration. Later in the noon after lunch, you will visit beautifully landscaped DREPUNG MONASTERY. You can observe nuns and monks chanting and performing religious discourses. After this religious journey, you eventually return to your hotel for delicious dinner and well-eared peaceful sleep.

Day 4: Drive to Tsedang (or Tsetang) (3550m) 183 km
After spending some time in Lhasa take a 2-hour drive along Yarlung Tsangpo river through barley and wheat fields to the third largest city in Tibet.
En route TSEDANG (or Tsetang) you stop at NYETHANG (NETANG DROMALA LAKHANG), a temple built in 10th century by Atisa, an India Buddhist. The temple contains interesting artifacts and hold significant importance in Tibetan Buddhism. Another stop before you reach Tsedang is MINDROLING, 10th century monastery, rebuilt in 1676 and highly reputed for its contribution towards astronomy, astrology, medicine and calligraphy. The Murals on the wall have very special significances and shows the typical Tantric arts.

Day 5: Yarlung Valley tour
Today will be spent exploring the Yarlug valley which is also known as the Valley of Tombs. Ancient Tibetan history boasts that Tibetan civilization was originated from Yarlung valley. You can spot massive burial mounds of Tibetan Kings.

Today’s sights include TANDRUK (TRANDRUK) MONASTERY, a 7th century monastery, which holds fantastic wood carved altar, interesting relics and murals. YAMBULAKANG, the castle perched dramatically on a pinnacle above the valley is the oldest known dwelling in Tibet, reputedly the home of the Yarlung Kings. The view from the castle is awesome.
The tour continues to the west of Tsedang, crossing the TSANGPO RIVER on a boat to SAMYE MONASTERY, founded in 779 AD, is in a green valley among barren mountains surrounded by a village. Samya Monastery is one of the most imposing sights of Tibet. Built between 763 and 75 AD modeled on the University of Otantapuri in India and planned as a representation of the universe it has a collection of pagodas and temples.

Day 6: Depart Tsedang
It is 2 hrs drive to the airport, your guide will escort you to the airport in time to catch your flight home.

For further enquiry please feel free to mail us at: enquiry@tibet-adventures.com