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8 Days Central Tibet and Namtso Small Group Tour

Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Lhasa - Namtso Lake - Damxung - Lhasa

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Shigatse Tashilhunpo Moanstery and Monk Shigatse Dzong Panoramic view of Shigatse City from Tashilhunpo Moanstery Namtso Lake and Yak Majestic Potala Palace Jokhang Temple Namtso Lake and Bird Namtso Lake and Prayer Flags
Shigatse Tashilhunpo Moanstery and Monk Shigatse Dzong Panoramic view of Shigatse City from Tashilhunpo Moanstery Namtso Lake and Yak Majestic Potala Palace Jokhang Temple Namtso Lake and Bird Namtso Lake and Prayer Flags

Tour Code: SG006A

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

Tour Service: Tibetan Local Tour Guide & Driver

  Time to Vist: April to October i

Trip Level: Easy Trip for All Ages i

What Makes Our Lhasa Shigatse Namtso Trip Different?
Master Kungga Dundruk

We combine the essence Tibetan cultural tour in Lhasa and Shigatse with a visit to two sacred lakes during which you can make close contact with local villagers.icon

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

8 Days from USD959

All-Included Price ?

Overview & Highlights of this Trip

This 8-day trip is an exhilarating journey to Lhasa and Shigatse, two of the largest cities in Tibet, with a scenic road trip via Tibetan nomad-inhabited region to sacred Namtso Lake, the world’s highest saline lake at 4718 meters above sea level.

Starting from Lhasa, you will explore the landmarks of this holy city, and get a first impression of Tibet and Tibetans. Then, travel west to the holy Lake Yamdrok, visit a local village family, and appreciate the stunning view of this turquoise lake before reaching Shigatse. After arriving in Shigatse, you will explore the largest monastery in central Tibet, the Tashilhunpo Monastery, which is also the home of the Panchen Lama.

End the tour with a 2-day excursion to Lake Namtso, the most popular holy Lake in Tibet. Be amazed by the endless lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Also, you will take an off-the-beaten-path visit to ancient Tsurphu Monastery and Chimelong Nunnery, where you can get a better understanding of Tibetan Buddhism.

This trip will feast your eyes with the best alpine view of central Tibet and leave you awful lots of chances to sample distinct local cultures and customs in various regions of Tibet.

  • Potala Palace in Lhasa

    Highlight 1 of this Trip: Admire the Potala Palace, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the landmark of Lhasa.

  • Hang prayer flags at Simila Mountain Pass

    Highlight 2 of this Trip: Hang prayer flags at Simila Mountain Pass to invoke blessings for the well-being of your loved ones.

  • Appreciate Yamdrok Lake

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

  • Visit Tibetan Monastery with Tibetan Guide

    Highlight 4 of this Trip: Explore the lives of Tibetan monks and their practices by visiting monasteries with our Tibetan guide.

  • Tsurphu Monastery

    Highlight 5 of this Trip: Visit Tsurphu Monastery, the birthplace of the renowned reincarnation system for living Buddhas in Tibetan Buddhism.

  • Lhasa Tibetan Teahouse

    Highlight 6 of this Trip: Experience the daily life of local Tibetans in the traditional Tibetan Teahouse.

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 – Namtso Lake - Damxung

Day 7: Damxung - Lhasa

Day 8: Lhasa Departure

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa

Welcome to Lhasa (3650m)!

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: Lhasa - Namtso Lake - Damxung (B)

In the morning, drive from Lhasa to Lake Namtso, one of the four holy lakes of Tibet and also the highest saline lake in the world. On the way, you can see snow-capped Nyenchen Thanglha Mountain Ranges and lots of nomads and their tent with grazing yak and sheep densely-populated on the flourishing grassland (in summer). Besides, you can enjoy the view of the Sky-Road Railway with snow mountain background; while standing at the famous Lagenla Pass(5190m), you can view the stunning vista of holy Namtso Lake.

Then we can enjoy our time doing a leisurely trek around Tashi Dor Island and along the lakeshore. Drive back to Damxung. (For environment protection, the Lakeshore guesthouses were close by the government.)

Stay overnight in Damxung.

  • Meditate at the shore of Lake Namtso

    Meditate at the shore of Lake Namtso

  • Take photo with Tibetan Yak at holy Namtso Lake

    Take photo with Tibetan Yak at holy Namtso Lake

Day 7: Damxung to Lhasa via Chimelong Nunnery and Tsurphu Monastery (B, L)

Today, you’ll have a cultural excursion to the off-the-beaten sites on the way back to Lhasa!

After breakfast, you will first visit Chimelong Nunnery (Phyirmil Lung Nunnery), the largest nunnery near Lhasa. Roam over the peaceful nunnery and get an idea of different Buddhist studies in Tibet, you may also spot a sky burial site (Tibet funeral site) in the distance.

Then, head to Tsurphu Monastery, the oldest monastery in Tibet. It is the seat of the Karmapa branch of the Kagyupa order of Tibetan Buddhism and is also the birthplace of the system of reincarnated living Buddhas in Tibet. Here, you can learn more about the ‘Black Hats', the Karma Kagyupa school of Tibetan Buddhism.

During the summertime (June to September), you have the option of enjoying a 'Linka outing' (Tibetan-style picnic) for lunch in the small village at the foot of the hill of Tsurphu Monastery. Alternatively, you can have lunch at the restaurant of Tsurphu Monastery.

At the end of the day, return to Lhasa.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Overnight in Lhasa
Breakfast | Lunch
  • Enjoy the landscape of the northern Tibetan grassland along the way.

    Enjoy the landscape of the northern Tibetan grassland along the way.

  • Visit Tsurphu Monastery, the oldest monastery in Tibet

    Visit Tsurphu Monastery, the oldest monastery in Tibet

Day 8: 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) 959 US$ 1049 US$ 1099 US$ 1179 US$ 1099 US$ 1179 US$ 1049 US$
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    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, 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 and Lake Namtso Trip Notes

1. How far in advance should I book the Lhasa to Lake Shigatse and Namtso 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, Shigatse, and Lake Namtso?

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 Lake Namtso 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 this trip? And how to deal with high altitude sickness?

While both Lhasa and Shigatse sits below 4000 meters above sea level, Lake Namtso is at an elevation of 4718 meters. The highest points during this journey is the Gampala Pass at 4900 meters near Yamdrok Lake and the Lagenla Pass at 5190 meters before reaching Lake Namtso.

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 Lake Namtso ensures a gradual acclimatization. You’ll spend 2-3 days exploring Lhasa at an altitude of 3650 meters before moving on to Lake Namtso at a higher altitude.

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, Shigatse, and Lake Namtso?

The best time to visit Lhasa, Shigatse, and Lake Namtso is from April to October, during which the climate is pleasant, ideal for outdoor sightseeing.

Summer marks the peak season for Tibetan tourism, with attractions potentially crowded, and costs at their highest. However, it's the best time to appreciate the vast northern Tibetan grasslands, characterized by lush greenery and herds of yaks and sheep along the way to Namtso Lake.

6. Can I visit Lake Namtso in winter?

Given its elevation at 5190 meters above sea level, Lake Namtso experiences extremely low temperatures during winter. Between November and March, the region often encounters snowfall, leading to the possible closure of roads due to heavy snow. Therefore, whether you can visit Namtso Lake or not depends on the weather conditions.

While Namtso Lake boasts a unique charm amidst a winter landscape blanketed in snow, certain activities may be limited due to the cold weather and substantial snowfall.

If you choose to explore Namtso in winter, it is advisable to proactively check weather forecasts and road conditions, ensuring thorough preparation. Contacting us for the latest updates before planning your Namtso Lake tour is highly recommended, guaranteeing a safe and seamless journey.

7. Is it possible to camp by Namtso Lake?

In order to protect the environment around Lake Namtso, it is not available to camp at the lake. Therefore, we usually arrange for you to stay in Damxung County, about 10 kilometers away from Namtso Lake.

This arrangement not only ensures your comfort but also allows for a restful night's stay after a day trip to Namtso Lake.

8. What to pack for this tour?

Clothes: No matter when you visit Lhasa, Shigatse, and Lake Namtso, 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.

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Shigatse Tashilhunpo Moanstery and Monk Shigatse Dzong Panoramic view of Shigatse City from Tashilhunpo Moanstery Namtso Lake and Yak Majestic Potala Palace Jokhang Temple Namtso Lake and Bird Namtso Lake and Prayer Flags
Shigatse Tashilhunpo Moanstery and Monk Shigatse Dzong Panoramic view of Shigatse City from Tashilhunpo Moanstery Namtso Lake and Yak Majestic Potala Palace Jokhang Temple Namtso Lake and Bird Namtso Lake and Prayer Flags

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