Trip Overview
Discover the cultural treasures of Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. Glimpse of Tibet Tour takes you to ancient Buddhist monasteries, palaces of the Dalai Lama, and Barkhor Square. Sitting under the shadow of Red Mountain, the city of Lhasa has a rich cultural heritage. It was the chosen capital of Tibetan Emperor Songsten Gampo and the Dalai Lamas in the later centuries.
Known to the world as the forbidden city at the ‘Roof of the world’, this mystical city stirred the imaginations of many explorers from the western lands. Now in the twenty-first century, Lhasa continues to inspire travelers. Our guess is you are probably one among them. So please do get on board and join this exciting tour!
There are three ways of getting into Lhasa – by flight, train, or overland drive. You can use any mode of transport to get into the city. Your trip begins once you arrive in Lhasa. Our knowledgeable local guide will take you on a tour of discovery to the city’s heritage sites, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
You will get to explore the palatial Potala Palace, the winter residence of the Dalai Lama. This impressive palace built in the traditional style dominates the skyline of Lhasa. Showcased inside the palace are Buddhist relics, ancient scroll paintings, mausoleums, and artifacts of the former Dalai Lamas.
Take a walk through the busy Barkhor Square and step inside the sacred Jokhang Temple, one of the holiest and oldest Buddhist temples in Tibet. Observe the pilgrims prostrating and praying in front of the temple.
Norbulingka, the summer retreat of the Dalai Lama has beautiful gardens and ponds. It is the favorite picnic spot of local Tibetans and you can see families enjoying their day out.
At Sera and Drepung Monasteries you can meet the monks and watch their debates. These monasteries are important centers of learning for Tibetan monks. If permitted, you can enter the large assembly halls and observe the Buddhist rituals and prayers offered by the lamas.
A visit to Ganden Monastery, one of the three chief monasteries of the Gelugpa Sect, is also included in this five-day Glimpse of Tibet Tour. The monastery is located about an hour and a half drive from the main city.
Perched on top of the Wangbur Mountain, this monastery was built by the founder of the Gelugpa Sect Je Tsongkhapa in the fifteenth century. His mortal remains are buried inside the monastery’s grounds. The monastic area houses many chapels and assembly halls. Not many tourists visit Ganden Monastery because of its location. Therefore you can enjoy your exploration in peace.
Although Glimpse of Tibet Tour can be done throughout the year, weather conditions in winter can be a bit extreme. It snows in winter and the temperatures dip below freezing point. The best seasons for this tour is spring, autumn, and summer.
As Lhasa lies at an elevation of 3,656 meters above sea level, there is less oxygen in the air. It’s normal to feel a bit out of sorts on your arrival. We advise you to take a rest on the first day, keeping physical activity to a minimum. Drink lots of water and keep yourself hydrated throughout your stay. This will help keep altitude sickness at bay.
You need to be reasonably healthy and fit to complete this tour. The trip involves easy walking on flat surfaces and stair climbing. If suffering from respiratory or cardiac illness, do consult your doctor before booking this trip.
The short duration of this tour (five days) makes it a perfect trip to be enjoyed on a short vacation with family and friends.