With China Tourist Visa Resumed,
Tibet Tours for All around the Globle are Available Right Now!

It is the best time to join our Tibet small group tour in 2024 at the best local price.
+ 86-28-81754631
TOP
listicon

6 Days Central Tibet Culture Small Group Tour: Explore Tibet's religion, cultural gems, and captivating landscapes.

Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse- Lhasa

icon
Shigatse Tashilhunpo Moanstery Panoramic view of Shigatse City from Tashilhunpo Moanstery Turquoise Yamdrok Lake Shigatse Dzong Explore the architecture of Tashilhunpo Moanstery Majestic Potala Palace Tibetan Doing Kora Monks of Tashilhunpo Moanstery Take a photo with Potala Palace
Shigatse Tashilhunpo Moanstery Panoramic view of Shigatse City from Tashilhunpo Moanstery Turquoise Yamdrok Lake Shigatse Dzong Explore the architecture of Tashilhunpo Moanstery Majestic Potala Palace Tibetan Doing Kora Monks of Tashilhunpo Moanstery Take a photo with Potala Palace

Tour Code: SG003A

Tour Type: Join-in Small Group Tour (Min 1 - Max 12) i

Tour Service: Tibetan Local Tour Guide & Driver

  Time to Vist: Available All Year Around i

Trip Level: Easy Trip for All Ages i

What Makes Our Lhasa Shigatse Trip Different?
Master Kungga Dundruk

Central Tibet offers not only great Monasteries, but also the stunning scenery of Lakes and glaciers on the way.icon

------ Tibetan Travel Guru,Master Kungga Dundruk icon

6 days from USD799

All-Included Price ?

Overview & Highlights of this Trip

This classic 6-day tour offers to a chance to explore the central Tibet tour, taking you to the two biggest old cities: Lhasa and Shigatse. By visiting these places, you will get a complete impression of Tibet's religion, cultural treasures, and dreamlike landscape.

From the greatest Tibetan architecture Potala Palace, the bustling markets of the Barkor Street, you can watch Tibetans as they prostrate around the most sacred Jokhang Temple and monks debate in Sera monastery. A visit to Drepung Monastery, Tibet's largest, offers insights into the daily life of Tibetan monks. Following the bustling scenes of Lhasa, immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Holy Yamdrok Lake and Karo Glacier, visit a local village family and have a lunch with them.

In Shigatse, delve into the cultural richness at Tashilhunpo Monastery, the residence of the Panchen Lama in Tibet. Marvel at the splendid Buddhist architecture and delve into the captivating stories surrounding the Panchen Lama.

For culture enthusiasts, this tour is an unparalleled choice, promising an enriching exploration of Tibet's profound heritage.

  • Lhasa Tibetan Teahouse

    Highlight 1 of this Trip: Experience the daily life of local Tibetans in the traditional Tibetan Teahouse.

  • Potala Palace in Lhasa

    Highlight 2 of this Trip: Admire the Potala Palace, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the landmark of Lhasa.

  • Appreciate Yamdrok Lake

    Highlight 3 of this Trip: Appreciate the turquoise Yamdrok Lake at different platforms.

  • Tibetan Prayer flags

    Highlight 4 of this Trip: Colorful Prayer flags and stunning scenery will lead you to Shigatse.

  • Visit Drepung Monastery

    Highlight 5 of this Trip: Explore the lives of Tibetan monks and their practice in Drepung Monastery, the largest Monastery in Tibet.

  • Visit Tibetan Monastery with Tibetan Guide

    Highlight 6 of this Trip: Explore the lives of Tibetan monks and their practices by visiting monasteries with our Tibetan guide.

  • Hang prayer flags at Simila Mountain Pass

    Highlight 7 of this Trip: Hang prayer flags at Simila Mountain Pass to invoke blessings for the well-being of your loved ones.

  • Explore Shigatse Dzong

    Highlight 8 of this Trip: Spend some time to explore the ancient Shigatse Dzong and know more about Tibetan culture.

  • Visit Jokhang Temple in Lhasa

    Highlight 9 of this Trip: Explore the Jokhang Temple, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the spiritual center of Tibetans.

Itinerary Details

Trip at a Glance

Day 1: Lhasa Arrival

Day 2: Lhasa Day Tour

Day 3: Lhasa Day Tour

Day 4: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse

Day 5: Shigatse - Nyemo - Lhasa

Day 6: Lhasa Departure

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa (3650m)

Welcome to Lhasa !

When you arrive in Lhasa, whether by train or flight, our friendly Tibetan guide will greet you with a Hada (the traditional Tibetan ceremonial scarf) and warm blessings.

Then, the guide and the driver will take you to your hotel in downtown Lhasa. You may view the Yarlung Tsangpo River/Brahmaputra River (the Longest and largest river in Tibet) and Lhasa River.

After settling into your hotel, take some time to rest and adjust to the high altitude.

In the afternoon or evening, your guide will meet you with traditional Tibetan gifts, provide travel instructions, and introduce your group members.

If you need any help or specific needs, feel free to visit our service center at Lhasa Gang-Gyan Hotel.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Overnight in Lhasa
  • Tibetan tour guide greets you at Lhasa Airport.

    Tibetan tour guide greets you at Lhasa Airport.

  • Lhasa River

    Lhasa River

Day 2: Lhasa Tour - Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery (B, D)

Today is Tibetan Monastery Day! You’ll have a full day to explore the largest monastery in Tibet, delve into the knowledge of Tibetan Buddhism, and immerse yourself in the daily life of Tibetan monks.

In the morning, you’ll explore the largest monastery in Tibet - Drepung Monastery, which was once the home to over 10,000 monks. As you walk through the Coqen Hall, your guide will provide detailed explanations of the worldview of Tibetan Buddhism and introduce notable figures in Tibetan Buddhist history.

Next, you’ll visit the renowned Loseling College (or an equivalent), offering a glimpse into the study and life of Tibetan monks. Explore their dormitories to gain insights into the Tibetan monks' daily routines and living conditions.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to Sera Monastery, another of the ‘great three’ Gelug monasteries of Tibet, to witness the famous Tibetan Monks Debate (15:00 - 17:00, from Monday to Saturday). Your guide will intricately explain how Tibetan monks engage in these debates to acquire knowledge and advance in their academic degrees.

After today’s tour, enjoy a welcome dinner with your group members.

Overnight in Lhasa
Breakfast | Welcome Dinner
  • Drepung Monastery, one of the Great Three Gelug monasteries of Tibet

    Drepung Monastery, one of the Great Three Gelug monasteries of Tibet

  • Monk Debate is a highlight of Sera Monastery

    Monk Debate is a highlight of Sera Monastery

Day 3: Lhasa Tour - Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street (B)

Today’s Highlight is a visit to UNESCO World Heritage Sites Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, providing a glimpse into the daily beliefs and lives of the people of Lhasa.

After breakfast, your first stop is the Potala Palace, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Lhasa Old Town. Discover the lives and stories of the Dalai Lamas through history within the palace, and the extraordinary treasures it holds. The most valuable collections of Potala Palace are the gilded burial stupas of former Dalai Lamas and the meditation cave of the 33rd great king of Tibet.

After touring the Potala Palace, you will visit Longwangtan Park at the foot of the Potala Palace. Here, you can appreciate the majestic Potala Palace from a different perspective and engage in local Tibetan folk activities.

In the afternoon, you will head to the heart of Tibetan religion - the Jokhang Temple. Inside you can see the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni at the age of twelve. Outside, you can see pilgrims making prostrating in front of Jokhang Temple. Around the temple is Barkhor Street, where you can do kora (a religious circle of a building or mountain) with pilgrims and locals, and explore the old market.

Next, follow your guide to one of the liveliest indoor Tibetan tea houses in Lhasa. Sip traditional Tibetan sweet tea alongside local Tibetans as your guide shares insights into Tibetan social dynamics and daily life.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Overnight in Lhasa
Breakfast
  • Potala Palace is always the No.1 attraction for travelers visiting Tibet.

    Potala Palace is always the No.1 attraction for travelers visiting Tibet.

  • A Tibetan pilgrim is worshipping  Jokhang Temple

    A Tibetan pilgrim is worshipping Jokhang Temple

Day 4: Lhasa to Shigatse via Gyantse 360 km (B, L)

In the morning, start the overland journey from Lhasa to Shigatse, which includes visits to Tibet's most beautiful lake, glacier, and a charming Tibetan village.

First, drive over the Gampala pass (4900m) to catch a glimpse of Yamdrok-tso (4400m). The Yamdrok Lake is surrounded by many snow-capped mountains and in the distance you can have spectacular views of Holy Mount Nyenchen Khangsar (7191m), the highest mountain near Lhasa. Continue to explore the lakeshore from various viewpoints, and at the end of the lake, you could visit a local family in the village and have lunch with the locals.

Next, you will pass and enjoy the Korola Glacier on the roadside. It is the largest glacier in Tibet. As you see the ice tongue of the glacier climb the entire hillside, you will feel the magical power of nature.

Then, continue your journey to Gyantse. On the way, you will stop at Simila Mountain Pass, where you can hang prayer flags to pray for world peace and the health of your family.

After arriving in Gyantse, you can spend some time taking photos of the ancient city of Gyantse. From Gyantse to Shigatse, you will pass by green (in summer) and golden (in autumn) Tibetan barley fields and countless farms.

Finally, we arrive in Shigatse (3900m), the second largest city in Tibet. After checking in to the hotel, you can take a good rest and prepare for the next day’s trip to Mount Everest.

Stay overnight in Shigatse.

Overnight in Shigatse
Breakfast | Lunch
  • Yamdrok Lake at Gampala Pass, where you can get a marvelous bird's-eye view of the lake.

    Yamdrok Lake at Gampala Pass, where you can get a marvelous bird's-eye view of the lake.

  • The Karola Glacier is so close that you will appreciate a spectacular view of the white glacier contrasted with blue sky.

    The Karola Glacier is so close that you will appreciate a spectacular view of the white glacier contrasted with blue sky.

Day 5: Shigatse to Lhasa via Nyemo (B)

Today's main attraction is a visit to Shigatse's largest monastery, the Tashilhunpo Monastery. Later, you'll return to Lhasa along the Yarlung Tsangpo River.

In the morning, you will explore the home of Panchen Lama - Tashilhunpo Monastery. The grand and magnificent halls of the largest local monastery occupy the entire hillside. This is the spiritual home of the Tibetan people in Shigatse, housing the world's largest statue of Maitreya Buddha. Inside, you will see monks adorned with yellow hats and red robes, moving about the temple.

After lunch, you’ll visit the most distinctive Samzhubze Old Market, where you can experience the daily activities of the local residents.

Then, you will return to Lhasa along the Yarlung Tsangpo River, the mother river of the Tibetan people.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Option: You also have the option to take a train from Shigatse to Lhasa instead of driving. If you choose this option, please inform your travel consultant. The cost of train tickets requires an additional payment.

Overnight in Lhasa
Breakfast
  • Tashilhunpo Monastery, the home of Panchan Lama

    Tashilhunpo Monastery, the home of Panchan Lama

  • Yarlung Tsangpo River in autumn

    Yarlung Tsangpo River in autumn

Day 6: Depart from Lhasa (B)

Today marks the end of your Tibet tour.

Please make sure to verify your departure flight/train details with our guide in advance. And your guide will take you to the airport or train station.

Thank you for choosing Tibet Vista, and we extend a warm welcome for your return to Tibet in the future.

Breakfast
  • Bid farewell to Lhasa, and may you have a safe and pleasant journey back home!

    Bid farewell to Lhasa, and may you have a safe and pleasant journey back home!

  • Your guide will escort you to Lhasa Railway Station if you depart Tibet by train.

    Your guide will escort you to Lhasa Railway Station if you depart Tibet by train.

Tour Cost & Schedule in 2024

Class/Price for P.PNov.1 to
Next Feb.28
Mar.1 to
May.31
Jun.1 to
Jul.9
Jul.10 to
Aug.20
Aug.21 to
Sept.19
Sept.20 to
Oct.10
Oct.11 to
Oct.31
Economic Class (3-Star Hotels) 799 US$ 829 US$ 879 US$ 929 US$ 879 US$ 929 US$ 829 US$
  • iocn

    clients have booked this trip with us in 2024.

    Welcome you to join in us together.

  • Calendar List

Please Note:

If you couldn’t find a tour date suitable for your travel schedule in the above form, please contact our travel experts and they will help you plan a delightful vacation to Tibet at the BEST local price.

Discount:

1.) 5% off for those booking the tour together with other two travelers (3 or 3 above in total) at the same time;

2.) 5% off for those booking the tour 3 months in advance;

3.) Please kindly be aware that the two discounts mentioned above cannot be enjoyed simultaneously.

Price Inclusions:

Tibet Travel Permit and all required local travel documents for this tour (excluding expedited processing fees);

Local tour transfers, 5-29 seats comfortable tourist vehicle according to the group size;

All entrance ticket fees for all tourist sites listed in the itinerary;

All meals listed in the itinerary;

Knowledgeable English-speaking Tibetan local tour guide shared in your group (For prices of tour guides in other languages, please inquire);

All hotels listed in the itinerary or equivalent three-star hotels. Upgrades are available for an additional fee. (Single room supplement required when not sharing the room);

Free shuttle between Lhasa Railway Station/Lhasa Gonggar Airport and the downtown hotel;

Service Charge & Government Taxes;

Arrangements including planning, handling, operational, and communication charges;

Tourist accident/casualty insurance;

Additional services include fine Tibetan souvenirs, a tourist map, portable oxygen, medical oxygen in the vehicle, bottled mineral water, and more.

Price Exclusion:

China Visa (If you need visa assistance services, especially for Chinese Group Visa from Nepal to Tibet, feel free to contact us for more details.);

International flight to and out of China;

Domestic flight/train to and out of Lhasa (If you need us to book the domestic flight/train tickets, please contact us for the details.);

Single Room Supplement: Hotels default to double occupancy with twin-bedded rooms. If you prefer a single room or room sharing isn't possible, a single room supplement is necessary. Please consult the travel consultant for specific pricing details.

Meals not listed in the itinerary;

Tips for the guide and driver. If you are satisfied with their service, it is suggested to tip $7 (50 RMB) per day per person to be shared between the driver and the guide;

Other expenses caused by force majeure events (such as natural disasters, traffic control, loss of valuables, visa delays, flight delays or cancellations, etc.);

Personal expenses, like laundry, phone calls, snacks, soft drinks (please do your best to avoid alcoholic beverages during your Tibet trip), optional tour activities, etc.

Lhasa & Shigatse Travel Notes

1. How far in advance should I book the Lhasa to Shigatse small group tour?

To ensure a smooth journey, it is recommended to book the tour at least 15-20 days before departure.

Of course, booking 1 or 2 months or even earlier will help us apply for necessary travel documents on your behalf and make advance reservations for accommodations.

Additionally, early booking provides the opportunity to enjoy early bird discounts.

The earlier you book, the better prepared you'll be, and you won't be troubled in a rush.

2. What are the necessary travel documents for visiting Lhasa and Shigatse?

Before you leave, make sure to get your Chinese Visa and Tibet Travel Permit in advance so you can enter the Tibet Autonomous Region.

We’ll take care of Tibet Travel Permit, as well as other local travel documents as part of our tour package. Simply follow our guidance, and there’s no need to worry about the process.

3. How to apply for the Tibet Travel Permit and how long can I get my Tibet Permit?

Once you book your Lhasa and Shigatse small group tour with us, simply provide scanned copies of your Chinese Visa and a valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity).

If you traveling with a work visa, you will need proof of employment in China, and a study visa requires proof of your study in China.

Generally, it takes 7-14 working days to process the Tibet Travel Permit. Once the permit is successfully issued, we will mail it to your address in China 3-5 days before your Tibet trip, ensuring you can smoothly board the train or flight to Tibet.

4. What is the altitude of Lhasa and Shigatse? And how to deal with high altitude sickness?

While Lhasa sits at an altitude of 3650 meters above sea level, Shigatse is slightly higher, reaching an elevation of 3845 meters. The highest point during this journey may be the Gampala Pass at 4900 meters when reaching Yamdrok Lake at 4400 meters above sea level.

For first-time visitors to such high-altitude regions, mild symptoms of altitude sickness, such as dizziness and headaches may occur.

However, there is no need to worry. Our specially designed 6-day trip from Lhasa to Shigatse ensures a gradual acclimatization. You’ll spend 2-3 days exploring Lhasa at an altitude of 3650 meters before moving on to higher altitudes like Shigatse (3845 meters).

Based on our experience, most tourists can adapt well to the increase in altitude through such an itinerary, and severe altitude reactions are rare.

If you experience severe symptoms during the journey, such as intense headaches or difficulty breathing, use oxygen immediately, inform your guide, and seek medical attention promptly.

5. When is the best time to visit Lhasa and Shigatse?

This journey is suitable for exploration throughout the year, as both Lhasa and Shigatse offer inviting experiences, regardless of the weather.

For the most favorable conditions, consider traveling between April and October, with particularly delightful weather in April, May, September, and October. During these months, the climate is pleasant, ideal for outdoor sightseeing. In Autumn, the scenic route from Lhasa to Shigatse showcases vast fields of Tibetan barley turning golden.

Summer marks the peak season for Tibetan tourism, with attractions potentially crowded and costs at their highest. However, it's also the prime time to relish the lush green fields on the journey from Lhasa to Shigatse and to witness the stunning views of Yamdrok Lake.

Winter emerges as the optimal season for budget-conscious tours in Tibet, as many hotels and flights offer low-season discounts, and numerous attractions provide free admission. It's also an ideal time for a quieter Tibet experience with fewer tourists during the low season.

Regardless of when you embark on this trip from Lhasa to Shigatse, anticipate a unique travel experience enriched by our exceptional local travel services.

6. What is the distance from Lhasa to Shigatse? And What is the road condition?

The straight-line distance from Lhasa to Shigatse is about 230 kilometers, but because of the winding mountain roads, the actual driving distance is around 260 kilometers. It usually takes about 4 to 5 hours to drive to Everest Base Camp.

For a comfortable and safe journey, we usually arrange the drive from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp with stops at Yamdrok Lake and Gyantse. This not only helps you get used to the high-altitude environment but also lets you enjoy the scenery along the way, making your travel experience better.

The road from Lhasa to Shigatse boasts one of the finest in the region, mainly following the famous Sino-Nepal Friendships Highway which is fully asphalted.

Even the final stretch of 90 kilometers to Everest Base Camp is now covered with smooth pavement. You don’t need to worry about the bumpy road anymore.

7. How about the living conditions and food options in Lhasa and Shigatse?

In Lhasa, you'll find a variety of places to stay, from fancy five-star hotels to more affordable options. These hotels come with modern amenities and good services for a comfy stay. When it comes to food, you can try local Tibetan dishes or go for Sichuan, Nepalese, Indian, or Western cuisines.

Shigatse, Tibet's second-biggest city, also has a bunch of choices for staying and eating. There are nice hotels and cozy guesthouses for a comfortable stay. You can enjoy local food and also pick from options like Sichuan dishes and Indian cuisine.

We've carefully picked hotels for your trip that people have really liked for their service and facilities. If you have specific preferences for where you stay or food options, just let us know. We'll tailor the arrangements to ensure they meet your needs perfectly.

8. What to pack for the Lhasa to Shigatse tour?

Clothes: No matter when you visit Lhasa and Shigatse, you need to prepare warm clothing for the cold night at the Tibetan Plateau. To ensure comfort, opt for warm, windproof outerwear, and consider layering to adapt to temperature fluctuations. In summer, lightweight clothing is suitable, while during spring and autumn, it's advisable to wear at least three layers (undershirt, sweater, outerwear). In winter, prioritize warmer clothing with wind protection. Additionally, due to strong ultraviolet rays, don't forget to wear sunglasses and a hat.

Personal Care: Pack your essentials such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, facial cleanser, towels, and other personal toiletries. Since there are no shower facilities at Everest Base Camp, consider bringing wet wipes for convenience.

Skincare: Due to the dry climate in Tibet, pack lip balm, moisturizing cream, and hydrating masks to prevent skin dryness and cracking.

Sun Protection: Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and sunglasses for effective sun protection against the strong UV rays in Tibet.

Additional Necessities: Considering the long distances between attractions in Tibet, bring a U-shaped pillow for a comfortable journey. Also, having a thermal flask ensures you have hot water whenever needed.

Common Medications: Take essential medications like motion sickness pills, gastrointestinal medicine, anti-inflammatory drugs, cold medicine, and other medications for emergencies. Include adhesive bandages and eye drops. (Consult your doctor and carefully follow medical advice when taking medication.)

Electronic Devices: Bring your phone, camera, power bank, and any other necessary electronic devices. If you plan to bring a drone, check with our travel consultant in advance. Tibet operates on a 220V voltage.

Cash and Cards: Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in major cities like Lhasa and Shigatse. Credit cards can be used in some large hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls in Lhasa. However, in remote areas, cash may still be necessary. It's advisable to carry a small amount of Chinese yuan and at least one bank card with you.

9. Can I return to Lhasa from Shigatse by train instead of by land?

Yes, you can. To condense this into a 5-day itinerary, you can take a train to Lhasa on the day after visiting Tashilhunpo Monastery.

Two train options are available from Shigatse to Lhasa, one at midday and one in the evening, with the entire journey lasting about 2.5 hours. Should you prefer to taking the train to Lhasa, please inform your travel consultant in advance to confirm the exact train schedule. If you need us to book the train ticket on your behalf, also let your travel consultant know during the tour arrangement process.

+ More Travel Notes

Contact us for your dream trip now !

Enquire Now

You May Also Like:

Question Summary*

Details*

SUBMIT

Please fill in your contact information, we will send you the answer by email

SUBMITCancel

Check All Tibet Travel FAQs Here

×
icon
icon
Shigatse Tashilhunpo Moanstery Panoramic view of Shigatse City from Tashilhunpo Moanstery Turquoise Yamdrok Lake Shigatse Dzong Explore the architecture of Tashilhunpo Moanstery Majestic Potala Palace Tibetan Doing Kora Monks of Tashilhunpo Moanstery Take a photo with Potala Palace
Shigatse Tashilhunpo Moanstery Panoramic view of Shigatse City from Tashilhunpo Moanstery Turquoise Yamdrok Lake Shigatse Dzong Explore the architecture of Tashilhunpo Moanstery Majestic Potala Palace Tibetan Doing Kora Monks of Tashilhunpo Moanstery Take a photo with Potala Palace

Get Started - 6 Days Central Tibet Culture Small Group Tour: Explore Tibet's religion, cultural gems, and captivating landscapes.

You’re getting closer to your dream Tibet vacation! Fill out this form so our travel designers can start helping you plan a trip.

Privacy Policy: Your information is kept strictly confidential. Tibet Vista will never sell, trade, or give away your contact information to a third party.
2
---
Wechat WhatsApp Phone call Video appointment

Ask a Quick Question & Free Enquiry

  • *
  • *
  • Submit
erweiam

If you have a wechat, please feel free to scan our wechat code.