Meditate with monks in Tibet

Welcome to Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet and a modern utopia. Your friendly Tibetan guide and drivers shall eagerly wait to greet you at Lhasa Gonggar Airport. Upon arrival, you'll receive a traditional white Khada and a refreshing drink during a brief welcome ceremony. Relax and let our team handle your luggage as you enjoy the scenic ride to your hotel in Lhasa city. Your guide will assist with check-in and share the next day's travel plans. Enjoy a comfortable stay at one of Lhasa's luxury hotels, preparing for an exciting tour tomorrow.

Begin your journey at the majestic Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Climb the grand steps for breathtaking views of the city and explore the White Palace and the religious chambers in the Red Palace, including the gilded burial stupas of past Dalai Lamas.

After lunch, visit Jokhang Temple, Lhasa’s holiest Buddhist site. In its dimly-lit rooms, you'll hear the hum of Buddhist chants and see locals adding butter oil to lamps. Don’t miss the life-size statue of the 12-year-old Buddha Sakyamuni. Outside, join Tibetan pilgrims in the famous Barkhor kora. Shop for unique souvenirs along Barkhor Street, then relax in a local teahouse with sweet tea and local delicacies. End your day with a lively welcome banquet featuring traditional Tibetan dancing, singing, and delicious Tibetan dishes, making your night in Lhasa unforgettable.

Get up early to enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Afterwards, we'll embark on a scenic journey to Pabonka, a Tibetan palace just 15km from Lhasa. Our first stop will be the holy cave where Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd Tibetan king, once meditated. Following a brief visit, we'll take a 30-minute hike behind Pabonka to reach Pabongka Rizhui, serene Buddhist temple offering breathtaking views of Lhasa. Here, you can relish the tranquility, perfect for meditation.

Returning to Lhasa around noon, we'll have lunch before heading to the renowned Sera Monastery. As the second largest Gelugpa monastery in Lhasa, Sera Monastery is famous for its lively monk debates. Join the crowd in the debate courtyard to witness this unique tradition, characterized by hand clapping, spirited debating, and monks using their mala beads. Additionally, explore the monastery's sand mandala, Buddhist scripture printing press, and grand assembly hall, gaining insights into Buddhist academic life.

Today we will take a breathtaking 32km journey from downtown Lhasa to the renowned Drak Yerpa hermitage, an exquisite gem for Buddhist exploration off the usual path. Take a leisurely hike up to the monastery, where ancient meditation caves once used by Guru Rinpoche and King Songtsen Gampo await your discovery. Spend approximately 2 hours immersed in meditation within these serene caves.

After a satisfying lunch, our next destination is Tsedang, the historic capital of Shanan prefecture, known as the cradle of Tibetan civilization. The scenic drive, about 3 hours long, will include a brief stop for you to admire the majestic Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra River). Rest in Tsedang tonight, preparing for tomorrow’s visits to the esteemed Samye Monastery and Chim-puk hermitage.

Discover the wonders of Samye Monastery, Tibet's first Buddhist academy, where every corner reflects profound Buddhist beliefs. Marvel at its unique architecture, explore its three distinct sections, and immerse yourself in centuries-old artifacts, statues, and sacred ornaments. The monastery holds a precious collection of Buddhist mantras that will captivate your senses.

After a delicious lunch, we journey to the mystical Chim-puk Hermitage, a mere 10-minute drive from Samye. Embark on a picturesque hike amidst colorful Tibetan prayer flags adorning the hills. Visit Guru Rinpoche's meditation retreat, where the tranquil hills exude an aura of sanctity perfect for deep meditation.

After breakfast we will drive back to Lhasa. The remainder of your day is open for your leisure. Whether you choose to relax and rejuvenate or explore Barkhor Street for unique souvenirs, the choice is yours to make the most of your time.

Your guide will escort you to the airport or train station for your onward journey, marking the conclusion of your luxurious Lhasa tour.