5 Days Lhasa Small Group Tour with Three Major Monasteries
Tour Route: Lhasa - Drak Yerpa - Ganden - Lhasa
Tour Code: SG005B
Tour Type: Join-in Small Group Tour (Min 1 to Around 12) i
- Guaranteed Departures: Our tour dates are fixed, ensuring each departure is guaranteed.
- Flexible Scheduling: If you can't find a date that suits your travel plans, no need to worry. Simply let us know your preferred travel time, and we'll create a custom schedule, inviting others to join you.
- Non-shopping Experience: Embrace a non-shopping adventure with us. We promise high-quality tours, ensuring an authentic and enriching experience in Tibet.
Tour Type: i
Tour Service: Tibetan Local Tour Guide & Driver
Time to Vist: Available All Year Around i
- Lhasa is a top destination for year-round travel in Tibet.and the best time to visit is from April to October.
- The busiest times/peak season are July, August, and October 1-8, coinciding with peak holiday seasons.
- Winter, from November to February, is the off-season, making it the best time to visit Lhasa on a budget. Flights and hotels offer great discounts, and some top attractions in Lhasa, like the Potala Palace, are free of charge according to the local promotion policy.
Trip Level: Easy Trip for All Ages i
- This Lhasa city tour is suitable for all fitness levels, including families with kids and seniors. At 3650 meters, Lhasa may cause slight altitude symptoms upon arrival. Following our itinerary and adopting a gradual pace usually helps you acclimate to the altitude.
What Makes Our Ganden Monastery Trip Different?
Explore the three biggest monasteries of Gelug Sect in Tibet in one go and see how Tibetan monks live in these monasteries.
------ Tibetan Travel Guru,Master Kungga Dundruk5 Days from USD599
- This price is based on double occupancy;
- This price is based on 3-star accommodation level in low season;
- This price doesn’t include the international airfare.
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Overview & Highlights of this Trip
This 5-day trip to Lhasa and its surroundings covers iconic historical sites like the Potala Palace, the Jokhang Temple, and the Barkhor Street in Lhasa city, as well as the greatest three monasteries of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, including Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery, and Ganden Monastery. Situated at an elevation of 3,800m above sea level, Ganden Monastery offers a great view of Lhasa Valley. You can also take a leisure hike around Ganden Monastery and explore the Great Tsongkapa’s meditation cave. Moreover, you will travel to the nearby Drak Yerpa Monastery to experience meditation in one of the ancient caves. If you are looking for an in-depth cultural and spiritual travel experience within a short trip in Tibet, don’t miss out on this trip.
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Highlight 1 of this Trip: Visit Ganden Monastery and enjoy a leisure kora through the valley around Ganden Monastery.
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Highlight 2 of this Trip: Admire the Potala Palace, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the landmark of Lhasa.
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Highlight 3 of this Trip: Visit Drepung Monastery to explore the largest Monastery in Tibet.
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Highlight 4 of this Trip: Experience the daily life of local Tibetans in the traditional Tibetan Teahouse.
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Highlight 5 of this Trip: Explore the lives of Tibetan monks and their practices by visiting monasteries with our Tibetan guide.
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Highlight 6 of this Trip: Follow the ancient Barhkor Kora route around the Jokhang Temple.
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Highlight 7 of this Trip: Meditate in the caves of Drak Yerpa, where Tibetan sages once pursued their spiritual practices.
Itinerary Details
Trip at a Glance
Day 1: Lhasa Arrival
Day 2: Lhasa Day Tour
Day 3: Lhasa Day Tour
Day 4: Lhasa - Drak Yerpa - Ganden - Lhasa
Day 5: 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.
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.
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.
Day 4: Lhasa to Ganden Monastery & Drak Yerpa Monastery and back to Lhasa (B, L)
Today, you will experience meditation in the cave of Drak Yerpa Monastery and explore Ganden Monastery, one of the “Great Three” Gelugpa monasteries of Tibet.
In the morning, you'll first take a short drive (about 30 kilometers) to Drak Yerpa Monastery, once the sacred practice site for Master Padmasambhava, Master Tsongkhapa, as well as King Songtsen Gampo. You can explore the ancient monastery and enjoy a breathtaking view of the whole valley and the snow-capped mountains in the distance.
After visiting the monastery, you can take a meditation in one of the meditation caves as you like. Allow your thoughts to wander back to ancient times, breathing and meditating with the ancient sages.
For lunch, you will get simple meals prepared by us during your practice.
After lunch, your journey continues to Ganden Monastery, where Master Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, taught his teachings. The Ganden Monastery is the oldest Yellow Sect monastery in Tibet. The architecture of Ganden Monastery covers the entire top of the mountain, which provides a spectacular view. After visiting the monster, you can follow the pilgrims on a leisurely kora around Ganden Monastery, which takes about 40 minutes.
After visiting the Ganden Monastery, you'll get back to Lhasa after today's trip.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Day 5: 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.
Tour Cost & Schedule in 2024/2025
Class/Price for P.P | Nov.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 |
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Economic Class (3-Star Hotels) | 599 US$ | 639 US$ | 699 US$ | 749 US$ | 699 US$ | 749 US$ | 639 US$ |
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9 clients have booked this trip with us in 2024/2025.
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.
From Tibet travel permits to local accommodations and transportation, we've got you covered. While train and flight tickets to Tibet are not included, we ensure seamless and 100% guaranteed booking for your convenience.
Your Tibet tour experience starts with us!
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.
Ganden Monastery Trip Notes
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.
To visit Lhasa and Ganden Monastery, you need to have both Chinese Visa and Tibet Travel Permit in advance.
We’ll take care of Tibet Travel Permit as part of our tour package. Simply follow our guidance, and there’s no need to worry about the process.
Once you book your Lhasa to Ganden Monastery 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.
While Lhasa is situated at an altitude of 3650 meters above sea level, Ganden Monastery is slightly higher, at an elevation of 3800 meters.
If you are visiting Tibet for the first time, there is a potential risk of experiencing altitude sickness.
However, there's no need to worry. During the initial 3 days in Lhasa, you will have ample time to acclimate to the high altitude of the Tibet Plateau. Then, when you visit Ganden Monastery on the 4th day, you will quickly adjust to the elevation.
Additionally, it's advisable to avoid strenuous exercise upon your arrival in Lhasa. Instead, take the opportunity to rest in the hotel on the first day.
Remember to stay hydrated by drinking more water and minimizing alcohol and smoking.
The best time to explore Lhasa and Ganden Monastery is from April to October, offering pleasant weather and comfortable temperatures for outdoor sightseeing.
During the summer months, from July to August, which mark the rainy season in Tibet, daytime tours in Lhasa and Drak Yerpa are not affected as the rain typically falls at night.
For budget-friendly travel, consider visiting from November to February, taking advantage of winter tourism policies that include free admission to attractions and discounts on hotels and flights to Tibet. Despite lower temperatures, daytime temperatures in winter, from November to February, can be above 10°C. Sunny days are common, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful walk with fewer crowds.
No matter when you visit Lhasa and nearby Ganden Monastery, you need to prepare warm clothing for the cold night at 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.
Besides the clothes to take, here are some more things to prepare for your trip to Ganden Monastery.
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 Lhasa. Credit cards can be used in some large hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls in Lhasa. However, in some small restaurants and shops, 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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"5 Days Lhasa Small Group Tour with Three Major Monasteries"