Offering a rare insight into Tibet, this itinerary is based in the capital, Lhasa, with daily guided touring included to the area’s most outstanding places of interest.
DAY 1 | On arrival at Lhasa Airport, you will be greeted by your Tibetan guide and driven to atmospheric Lhasa, capital of Tibet. Accommodation for four nights is on a bed and breakfast basis at the Four Points By Sheraton hotel. By way of introduction to the city, this afternoon includes a leisurely visit to the Bharkhor District, one of Lhasa’s last three pilgrim circuits. DAY 2 | Today you will explore two of Tibet’s major Gelugpa Sect (Yellow Hat) monasteries. As lively Drepung Monastery is visited in the morning, you will observe the pilgrims making their rounds of the local pilgrim circuit. After returning to the city for lunch, which is included, an afternoon visit is planned to Pabonka Monastery, chosen for its remote location. You will later experience the great Debating Ceremony at Sera Monastery. DAY 3 | This morning allows for exploration of the famed Potala Palace, former residence of the Dalai Lama. After lunch, a visit is included to the Tibetan Traditional Medicine Hospital where fascinating medical beliefs and cures are introduced. The day ends following a visit to Tibet’s holiest temple, Jokhang, where pilgrims gather in the late afternoon. DAY 4 | One of the highlights of this itinerary is this morning’s drive out of the city to Ganden Monastery, spiritual home of the Gelugpa Sect and set high in the mountains. On the return journey, a stop is made at a more traditional village to explore how Tibetans live, with time to observe their traditions and customs. Lunch is included, with the remainder of the afternoon at leisure. DAY 5 | Transfer to Lhasa Airport for your onward flight. To allow for acclimatisation to the altitude, we recommend combining Tibet with a visit to Banyan Tree Lijiang and Banyan Tree Ringha in China.
4 nights from £860 per person. Prices are based on two people sharing a room and include transfers, accommodation, private touring and meals as specified. Flights are not included. Single supplement and flight prices are available on request. This itinerary is only a suggestion – our experienced sales team will be happy to put together alternative, tailormade routes.