6 Days Tibet Shoton Festival Tour

Welcome to the roof of the world! You will be picked up by local tour guide at the airport hall or train station, and then be escorted to your hotel in Lhasa city in a private vehicle.

After arrival at your hotel, the rest of the day is free for you to explore the local areas and acclimatize yourself to the air, temperature and high altitude of Lhasa.

High Altitude Acclimation Tips: 1) go for some leisure walking to acclimate the high altitude but avoid strenuous activity after arrival; 2) you’d better not have bath, in case of catching a cold; 3) drink more water, and have some fruit; 4) have a good rest.

Accommodation: Overnight in Lhasa

Start today’s Lhasa exploration with an exciting visit to the landmark - Potala Palace which is regarded as one of the most beautiful architectural building in the world. You will climb up the palace along the zigzag stone paths with white-and-red walls to the top of the palace where you can not only appreciate the exotic Tibetan-style architecture, but also get a great view of Lhasa’s urban areas, then walk into the inner space of Potala Palace to explore the stately chapels and learn about the history of the palace. 

Continuing your exploration, you will then get to Jokhang Temple which is considered as the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism. Each day, there are thousands of pilgrims coming from different places in Tibet to the temple to worship to the Buddha. This temple is also known as the “house of Buddha” because it keeps the precious Jowo Rinpoche, the life-sized (5 foot/1.5m) image of the Shakyamuni at the age of 12. The last site for today’s exploration is the famous Barkhor Street. It is a circular and wide street encircling the Jokhang Temple. The local people like to walk on the street for several circles usually in the late afternoon as a daily tradition of pilgrimage. The street also has many shops selling a wide variety of traditional Tibetan goods, religious items and handcrafts. 

Tips of Today: 1) there are 1,080 steps up to climb to the top of Potala Palace, so don’t walk in a rush, which may cause high altitude sickness; 2) taking photos is not allowed inside the palace; 3) today you will be mainly outside, please bring some water, a hat, sun cream, and sun glasses with you.

Accommodation: Overnight in Lhasa

This day you will enjoy the Shoton Festival in Lhasa. You have to get up before dawn to go to the Drepung Monastery, where you will be able to enjoy the beginning of the Shoton Festival, the exhibition of a massive Buddha thangka tapestry that covers the entire hillside. Visitors will be inspired by the tranquil religious atmosphere consisting of huge throngs of spectators, Senior Lamas and monks chanting sutras while deep piercing bellows from two giant horns combine to create a unique atmosphere. In the afternoon, you will go to Norbulingka Palace to enjoy watching several traditional Tibetan operas and dramas.

Accommodation: Overnight in Lhasa

Many travelers who had been to Tibet said that they have never, ever met people who is so willing and eager to laugh. Whether the men, women, children, lamas or the shopkeepers, they are always on the verge of a smile. They look so happy! You must be wondering what is the real daily living and real home of a local Tibetan family. Here comes the chance! Today, you will be welcomed to visit a real Tibetan family in Lhasa. Chat with the friendly and hospitable hosts, taste home-made buttered tea, enjoy a home lunch…there are many things to do! 

In the afternoon, you will be taken to another famous monastery in Lhasa - Sera Monastery. It is famous for the spectacular “Buddhism Debating”. As a daily routine, the monks gather in a courtyard, and debate on the Buddhist doctrines with supplemented gestures, which is thought to be helpful to facilitates better comprehension of the Buddhist philosophy to attain higher levels of study. After enjoying the "Buddhism Debating", you will be transferred back to the city. The rest time is your own free time to rest.

Accommodation: Overnight in Lhasa

Today, you’ll be driven to Namtso Lake, about 250km northwest from Lhasa (paved road), the second-largest saltwater lake in China. It is over 70km long and reaches a width of 30km. In clear weather the water is a stunning shade of turquoise and you will be surrounded by magnificent views of the nearby mountains. The wide open spaces, dotted with tents of local nomads, are breathtaking. You may also walk along the lake or climb up the hill near the lake to explore the area.

Tips of today: While we recommend that you stay in a hotel back in Lhasa in the interest of comfort, you do have the option to stay at a guest house near Namtso Lake. The guesthouses lack showers. There is only one public toilet in the area which has no light to offer at night. However, if you are able to put up with the discomfort, staying at the guesthouse will allow you to a great view of the sunset and sunrise, as well as a great view ofz the stars at night!

Accommodation: Overnight in Lhasa

Today is free for you until your tour guide transfer you to the airport in time for your flight or drop you off at Lhasa train station.

Tips of today: 1. Please pack your luggage carefully, especially for small things like camera charger, power adaptor, mobile phone, phone charger, wallet and towel. 2. If your flight is arranged in the afternoon, please make sure you check out the hotel before 12pm.

Accommodation: