Classic Lhasa & Yamdrok Lake Tour

Tour Overview

This 5-6 day classic Tibet tour is perfect for travelers with limited time who want to experience Tibet's cultural heart. You'll explore Lhasa's UNESCO World Heritage sites — the majestic Potala Palace, sacred Jokhang Temple, and vibrant Barkhor Street — then journey to the breathtaking turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet's three holy lakes.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa (3,650m)

Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station, your English-speaking guide and driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day acclimatizing to the altitude. Light dinner and rest recommended.

Overnight: Lhasa 4-star hotel

Meals: Welcome Dinner

Day 2: Lhasa City Tour — Potala Palace & Jokhang Temple

Morning visit to the iconic Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb the white and red palaces while your guide explains Tibetan Buddhist history. Afternoon visit to Jokhang Temple, Tibet's most sacred temple, followed by a kora (circumambulation) along Barkhor Street, the bustling pilgrimage circuit lined with shops selling Tibetan crafts.

Overnight: Lhasa 4-star hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3: Drepung Monastery & Sera Monastery

Morning visit to Drepung Monastery, once the world's largest monastery housing over 10,000 monks. Explore the intricate chapels and enjoy panoramic views of Lhasa valley. Afternoon visit to Sera Monastery to witness the famous monk debating ceremony — a lively Buddhist philosophical tradition unique to Tibetan Buddhism.

Overnight: Lhasa 4-star hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4: Lhasa → Yamdrok Lake → Lhasa (Day Trip, 220km round trip)

Depart Lhasa after breakfast, driving southwest along the Lhasa River valley. Cross the Kambala Pass (4,990m) for your first breathtaking view of Yamdrok Lake — a stunning turquoise lake shaped like a scorpion, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Descend to the lakeshore for photos and a peaceful walk. Visit a local Tibetan village before returning to Lhasa.

Overnight: Lhasa 4-star hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: Norbulingka & Tibetan Culture Experience (Optional Day 6 Extension)

Morning visit to Norbulingka Palace, the summer residence of the Dalai Lamas and a beautiful garden palace. Afternoon free time for shopping at Barkhor Street or visiting the Tibet Museum. Evening farewell dinner with traditional Tibetan song and dance performance.

Overnight: Lhasa 4-star hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Dinner

Day 6 (or Day 5): Departure

Transfer to Lhasa Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey.

Meals: Breakfast

What's Included

• Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) processing
• All listed accommodations (twin-share, 4-star)
• English-speaking licensed Tibetan guide
• Private vehicle with experienced driver
• All entrance fees to listed attractions
• Meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
• Airport/railway station transfers
• Oxygen bottles and first-aid kit in vehicle

What's Not Included

• Flights or train tickets to/from Lhasa
• Chinese visa fees
• Travel insurance (required)
• Personal expenses (laundry, phone, drinks, tips)
• Single room supplement

Pricing (Per Person in USD)

* Prices subject to seasonal adjustment. Contact us for the latest quote.