How to Spend 5 Days in Lhasa - Lhasa 5 Days Itinerary Plans 2025/2026

Where to go if you have 5 days in Lhasa? As the gateway of Tibet, Lhasa is usually the first station for a Tibet journey. In addition to the classic 2-day itinerary in Lhasa city, most travelers will extend their trip to the surrounding cities, such as Nyingchi and Shigatse for in-depth natural and cultural experience of Tibet, which requires arriving in Lhasa at least one day in advance. Here are some suggestions to help you make most of your 5-day Lhasa trip. With decades of experience in Tibet, we have extensive exploration knowledge and a comprehensive service system in Lhasa and the surrounding cities, allowing us to offer you a uniquely customized travel experience.

Plan A: Lhasa City Highlights with Nyingchi Landscape Discovery Tour

If you are passionate about natural landscapes and wish to visit cities beyond Lhasa, it is recommended that you spend 2~3 days going to Nyingchi, a nearby city often called the Tibetan Switzerland with lush forests, snow-capped mountains, rivers, and flowers (arriving in Lhasa at least one day in advance).

Day 1 Lhasa: Tibet Museum - Norbulingka - Sera Monastery

Visit Tibet Museum, appreciate beautiful Norbulingka and take a visit to Sera Monastery on day 1. Tibet Museum, as the first modern museum in Tibet, has rich collections of statues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas in various genres and shapes, colorful Thangka paintings, distinctive ethnic handicrafts, etc., where is your comprehensive window to understand the history and culture of Lhasa and Tibet. Norbulingka, means "Park of Treasure" in Tibetan and is a charming garden reputed as the summer palace of Lhasa with traditional Tibetan-style architecture. As one part of the historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace, it was added to World Heritage Sites in 2001. Sera Monastery one of the three main temples in Lhasa, along with Drepung Monastery and Ganden Monastery, is a representative of Gelug temples, featuring its famous Buddhism Debating, which is a spectacular way to discuss the Buddhist knowledge. If there is extra time, it is highly recommended to watch the outdoor live performance of Princess Wencheng during your Lhasa journey. Princess Wencheng Show, performed during 21:30~23:00 (late April to Early October), presents the Chinese and Tibetan history and culture through the story that Princess Wencheng of Tang Dynasty married Songtsen Gambo 1,300 year ago.

Day 2 Lhasa: Potala Palace - Jokhang Temple - Barkhor Street

On day 2, climb to the Potala Palace, visit Jokhang Temple and walk along with Barkhor Street. Since the Potala Palace is at a higher elevation (3700m) than other attractions in the city (3650m) and requires climbing a large number of steps, it is recommended to visit the Potala Palace on the second day. Potala Palace, regarded as landmark and the symbol of Tibet, is a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture with many precious cultural heritages. It is the dream destination for both pilgrims and travelers from all over the world and even a short glimpse will leave tourists a long-lasting impression. Jokhang Temple is spiritual center of Lhasa surrounded by the devoted pilgrims. It was also listed in the World Cultural Heritages with Potala Palace and Norbulingka. Most travelers visit Jokhang Temple to witness the life-sized statue of the Shakyamuni at the age of 12. Barkhor Street, as a public square around Jokhang Temple, is a popular circumambulation for pilgrims and commercial center. You can find many pilgrims turning their prayer wheels and many interesting souvenirs shopping stores here.

Day 3 Lhasa - Nyingchi: Basum-tso Lake - Kadinggou Valley

Today, depart from Lhasa to the Switzerland of Tibet - Nyingchi. Along the way, you will enjoy picturesque natural scenery, such as lush green rivers, dense forests, traditional Tibetan homes, etc. The beautiful Basum-tso Lake should be your first stop on the route. Situated 3,500 meters above sea level, this pristine lake mirrors the snow-capped peaks and glaciers of the Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains. A short hike leads to a viewing platform, where you can take in a stunning panoramic view of the turquoise waters. On clear days, the lake's surface shifts between brilliant emerald and deep sapphire hues as clouds drift overhead-creating a scene like scattered jewels. After immersing yourself in the beauty of the lake, take a side trip to Kadinggou Valley, a scenic park renowned for its primeval forest and the Heavenly Buddha Waterfall, which plunges over 200 meters down a steep cliff. Within the mist, a naturally formed Buddha image appears and disappears, flanked by two guardian figures-adding a sense of mystery and sacredness to the scene. A short hike is required, but the refreshing air, birdsong, and the thunderous sound of falling water make it a truly delightful experience. Then head to Nyingchi city for accommodation. Finding comfortable accommodation in Nyingchi is now easier than ever, with a range of newly built hotels offering modern amenities tailored to traveler needs.

Read more: Nyingchi Hotels and Accommodation

Day 4 Nyingchi: Sejila Pass - Lulang Forest - Lulang Town

Begin today's journey from Nyingchi to discover why it is known as the Tibetan Switzerland. First, go to the Sejila Pass. On clear days, you may catch sight of the majestic Mount Namjagbarwa (7782m), soaring above the clouds with extraordinary grace. Known as one of China’s most beautiful peaks, it stands at the eastern end of the Himalayas, often shrouded in mist and mystery. Continue westward, and soon the dense forest gives way to the vast greenery of Lulang Forest, one of Nyingchi’s most iconic natural wonders. Stop at the best viewing platform to take in a sweeping panorama of alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks, and rolling woodlands. The scenery here changes with the seasons, lush and vibrant in summer, golden and serene in autumn, each offering its own charm. Then head to Lulang Town, a small but picturesque settlement nestled at the foot of the forest and surrounded by flower-filled meadows. Take a leisurely walk along the wooden boardwalk by Lulang Lake, where the tranquil water mirrors the mountains and clouds above. You can enjoy the calm atmosphere, the gentle sound of the wind, and the sight of a white pagoda standing gracefully in the distance, a perfect spot for quiet reflection and photography.

Day 5 Nyingchi - Lhasa/Departure: Free Exploration

Return to Lhasa or go to the next destination from Nyingchi on day 5. You can travel from Nyingchi to other cities in China by non-stop flights, such as Chengdu (2 hours), Chongqing (2 hours), Xi'an (2.5 hours), and Beijing (3.5 hours). Since most flights departing from Nyingchi leave in the morning to noon, your time in Nyingchi today will be limited. If you plan to return to Lhasa, where there are more transportation options, you will have some time to freely explore Nyingchi city and its surrounding areas. Gongbu Park, located in the urban area of Nyingchi, is the largest and most tree-rich central city park in Tibet with four functional areas: the Children's Park, City Park, Ecological Park, and Gongbu Street. Gala Village, located half an hour's drive from Nyingchi city, is famous for its blooming peach blossoms. The peach groves here with an area of over 500 acres, and in spring, all mountains are covered with blooming peach trees, creating a beautiful sea of blossoms. With the Lhasa-Nyingchi Railway officially put into operation in 2021, you can also choose to take a 4-5 hour express train from Nyingchi back to Lhasa city.

Read more: Top 10 Nyingchi Attractions - Things to Do in Nyingchi

Plan B: Lhasa Gyantse Shigatse Golden Triangle Cultural Exploration Tour

Visiting Tibet always means getting a great savory of its brilliant culture. Lhasa and Shigatse are the two top cities offering you an opportunity to see Tibet’s most important cultural sites along with the golden triangle destinations route: Lhasa, Gyantse and Shigatse (arriving in Lhasa at least one day in advance).

Day 1 Lhasa: Tibet Museum - Norbulingka - Sera Monastery

Visit Tibet Museum, appreciate beautiful Norbulingka and take a visit to Sera Monastery on day 1. Tibet Museum, as the first modern museum in Tibet, has rich collections of statues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas in various genres and shapes, colorful Thangka paintings, distinctive ethnic handicrafts, etc., where is your comprehensive window to understand the history and culture of Lhasa and Tibet. Norbulingka, means "Park of Treasure" in Tibetan and is a charming garden reputed as the summer palace of Lhasa with traditional Tibetan-style architecture. As one part of the historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace, it was added to World Heritage Sites in 2001. Sera Monastery one of the three main temples in Lhasa, along with Drepung Monastery and Ganden Monastery, is a representative of Gelug temples, featuring its famous Buddhism Debating, which is a spectacular way to discuss the Buddhist knowledge. If there is extra time, it is highly recommended to watch the outdoor live performance of Princess Wencheng during your Lhasa journey. Princess Wencheng Show, performed during 21:30~23:00 (late April to Early October), presents the Chinese and Tibetan history and culture through the story that Princess Wencheng of Tang Dynasty married Songtsen Gambo 1,300 year ago.

Day 2 Lhasa: Potala Palace - Jokhang Temple - Barkhor Street

On day 2, climb to the Potala Palace, visit Jokhang Temple and walk along with Barkhor Street. Since the Potala Palace is at a higher elevation (3700m) than other attractions in the city (3650m) and requires climbing a large number of steps, it is recommended to visit the Potala Palace on the second day. Potala Palace, regarded as landmark and the symbol of Tibet, is a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture with many precious cultural heritages. It is the dream destination for both pilgrims and travelers from all over the world and even a short glimpse will leave tourists a long-lasting impression. Jokhang Temple is spiritual center of Lhasa surrounded by the devoted pilgrims. It was also listed in the World Cultural Heritages with Potala Palace and Norbulingka. Most travelers visit Jokhang Temple to witness the life-sized statue of the Shakyamuni at the age of 12. Barkhor Street, as a public square around Jokhang Temple, is a popular circumambulation for pilgrims and commercial center. You can find many pilgrims turning their prayer wheels and many interesting souvenirs shopping stores here.

Day 3 Lhasa - Shannan - Gyantse: Yamdrok Lake - Karola Glacier - Palcho Monastery - Gyantse Dzong

Today, leave Lhasa to Gyantse county, Shigatse. Along the way, it will first pass through Shannan city and reach your first highlight - Yamdrok Lake. As the largest fresh lake in the northern of the Himalaya Mountains, it spreads about 675 square meters from south to north, like an eardrop lying in the arms of snow-capped giant mountains. Viewing from a distance, you can see fertile pastures full of yaks and sheep, and some small Tibetan villages along the lakeshore. Not so far from Yamdrok Lake, you will get to the imposing Karola Glacier towering aloft on the right side of the road. Keep going forward to get to the historical city - Gyantse to visit the mysterious Palcho Monastery. The monks and tradition of three important sects of Tibetan Buddhism - Sakyapa, Zhalupa and Gelukpa, peacefully coexist in this monastery. Its Kumbum, which is 35 meters high and has 76 small chapels with hundreds images of Kriyatantras , is believed to be the largest such structure in Tibet. Finishing your visit in Palcho Monastery, go to take some photos of the Gyantse Dzong Fortress. It is a very impressive fortress with typical Tibetan palace architecture style which is inherited from Yumbulagang Palace - The First Palace of Tibet. Staying in Gyantse county tonight with comfortable lodging, often in newer properties designed with tourists in mind.

Read more: Gyantse Accommodation - Recommended Hotels in Gyantse

Day 4 Gyantse - Shigatse: Pala Manor - Tashilhunpo Monastery

Set off from Gyantse county to Shigatse, the second largest city in Tibet. Firstly, take a very special site where you can learn about the living condition and tradition of old Tibet - Pala Manor. Located in a Tibetan village about 4km southwest from Gyantse county, Pala Manor is the only aristocratic manor preserved well in Tibet, and used to be the private manor of Pala families since 17th century. So far, the house, relics in the rooms are still remain the same as used to be. Upon arriving in Shigatse, head straight to the magnificent Tashilhunpo Monastery, located in the Shigatse city area, which is also the largest and most influential Gelug Monastery in Shigatse prefecture. Here you will see a giant statue of Future Buddha, the largest one of its kind on earth (26.2 meters high and 11.5 meters wide), decorated with precious pearls, turquoises, corals and ambers. After visiting Tashilhunpo Monastery, stay in Shigatse city, which offers a variety of star-rated accommodations equipped with modern facilities. Many are equipped with washing machines (including drying functions), oxygen machines for altitude acclimatization, and automatic toilets.

Read more: Shigatse Hotels - Top Accommodation in Shigatse

Day 5 Shigatse - Lhasa/Departure: Nyemo Tunba/Free Exploration

Back to Lhasa or go to the next destination from Shigatse on day 5. You can take non-stop flights from Shigatse to other cities in China, such as Chengdu (2 hours), Xi'an (3 hours), Chongqing (2.5 hours), Xining (2 hours). Before that, you will have some time to freely explore Shigatse city and its surrounding areas to immerse yourself in the local culture and Tibetan traditions. Or you can return to Lhasa along the legendary Yaluzangbu River, the mother river of Tibet. On the halfway, take a visit to Nyemo Tunba, which was the home of Tunmi Sangbuzha who invented the Tibetan character as well as the famous Tibetan Incense. Here in Tunba, you also have chance to witness the process of making Tibetan Incense with water mill. At the same time, the scenery here is fabulous - ancient cypress trees, green willows, murmuring river... Leave Nyemo Tunba and keep going on your way to Lhasa. You can also take the high-speed C-trains for about 2 hours from Shigatse back to Lhasa city. Honored as “The Closest Railway to Sky”, Lhasa-Shigatse Railway, completed in 2014, is the extension line of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway - the world’s highest railway. Arriving in Lhasa, end the day with a warm Yak Hotpot dinner in a typical Tibetan restaurant, with traditional Tibetan songs and dances for your 5-day memorable Tibet journey.

Read more: What to See in Shigatse - Top Attractions in Shigatse

Tour Lhasa in More Days - Extend Your Trip from Lhasa

How to Plan a Lhasa Tour

Top Recommended Lhasa Private Tours 2026

Lhasa, as the gateway to Tibet, is the starting point and transit hub of a Tibet tour. Travelers usually spend 3~4 days on traveling in and around Lhasa, including the arrival and departure days, and take more 1~2 days to surrounding Namtso or Yamdrok Lake. Most tourists also set Mount Everest, located in Shigatse, the second largest city in Tibet, as their trip goal, extending their journey to 8~10 days. Here we have selected the 3 best Lhasa tours below for your reference, and you can also contact us to create a Lhasa trip that tailored to your personal interests and needs.

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  Lhasa / Gyantse / Shigatse / Everest / Lhasa

  8 Days Lhasa to Mount Everest Private Tour

  Highlights: Potala Palace, Yamdrok Lake, Tashilhunpo Monastery, Mt. Everest

  $1,599 / Details

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  Lhasa / Shigatse / Mount Everest / Namtso Lake / Lhasa

  9 Days Tibet Discovery Tour plus Everest and Namtso Expedition

  Highlights: Potala Palace, Yamdrok Lake, Mt. Everest, Namtso Lake

  $1,809 / Details

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  Nyingchi / Lhasa / Shigatse / Everest / Lhasa

  10 Days Awe-inspiring Nyingchi Lhasa Everest Adventure Tour

  Highlights: Mount Everest, Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Yamdrok Lake, Tashilhunpo Mounastery, Basum-tso Lake, Lulang Forest

  Request / Details