Tibet Itinerary

Tibet Extension with Mani Lama

Lhasa to Lhasa: A photographic taste of Tibet

Important Note: Much of this tour will be at altitudes over 12,000 feet above sea level, therefore before booking this trip please make sure you are in a good physical health and can be comfortable at these heights. If necessary, please check with your physician. Although this trip visit remote areas all accommodations will be in four start hotels to ensure personal comfort.  

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Day 01

Arrive Lhasa – Tsedang

(By flight and by surface 90 Km/01 plus Hrs)

This morning you will fly for about an hour over the breathtaking Himalayan Ranges to Lhasa the capital of Tibet. Upon arrival you will be met by your guide and driver and driven to Tsedang (altitude 12,000 feet).

Tsedang sits on the south bank of the YarlungTsangbo River and is the birthplace of the earliest Tibetans who in Tibetan mythology are said to be the offspring of a monkey and a demoness. Tsedang literally means “monkey’s playground”. Tsedang is an important place in origin of Tibet’s tribal culture. You will find opportunities to capture extraordinary landscape, architectural and people images just about everywhere you turn in Tsedang and on the trip to and from there.

You will have time in the afternoon to rest and acclimate, process photos or explore

Dinner is at a local restaurant.

Overnight in the Hotel

Day 02

Tsedang – Lhasa

(By surface approx. 90 Kms/01 plus Hrs)

Today you will explore the Yarlung valley which is also known as the Valley of Tombs.

Ancient Tibetan history boasts that Tibetan civilization originated in theYarlung valley. You will see the massive burial mounds of Tibetan Kings. Today’s sights include Tandruk Monastery, a 7th century monastery, which delivers fantastic chances for photos including a wood carved altar, interesting relics and murals. Yambulakang, the castle perched dramatically on a pinnacle above the valley, is the oldest known dwelling in Tibet, reputedly the home of the Yarlung Kings. The view from the castle is awesome and provides yet more amazing photos. The tour continues to the west of Tsedang, crossing the Tsangpo River on a boat to Samye Monastery, founded in 779 AD. It’s in a green valley among barren mountains surrounded by a village that will yield people shots. Samya Monastery is one of the most imposing sights of Tibet and a very good place to capture images. Built in the eigth century AD, it is modeled on the University of Otantapuri in India and planned as a representation of the universe. It has an extraordinary collection of pagodas and temples.

After the tour, drive back to Lhasa (11,500 feet).

Dinner is at a local restaurant.

Overnight in the Hotel

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Day 03

Lhasa 

Our photo shoot today brings us to three of Tibet’s most important and visually interesting monasteries: Drepung, Pabonka, and Sera. Drepung once housed 10,000 monks, and Sera almost as many. If we are lucky, we’ll hear the monk’s lilting chanting of sutras as we explore Drepung. At Pabonka Monastery, enjoy a picnic lunch and photograph the hermitage buildings and the beautiful views just outside Lhasa. Then visit Sera Monastery to experience the monk’s theatrical debate through your viewfinder. On our return, we stop at the Chupsang Nunnery for a chance to capture images of the nuns and their daily rituals.

Dinner is at a local restaurant.

Overnight in the Hotel

Day 04

Lhasa

Rise early to photograph the iconic Potala Palace in the golden hues of daybreak. Explore the grandest of its myriad of rooms, and see the jeweled burial chortens of past Dalai Lamas as well as statuary, frescoes, and paintings. Continue with a visit to the Jokhang, the holiest temple in Tibetan Buddhism. From the rooftop, marvel at the spectacular views of the surrounding Barkhor, Lhasa’s medieval bazaar, and capture images of prostrating worshipers and pilgrims lining up to enter the temple.

In the afternoon, we venture into the Barkhor to document the timeless atmosphere of old Tibet. Bargain for thangkas, Tibetan hats and boots, and turquoise jewelry; and interact with the proud, red-tasseled Khampas from eastern Tibet, and the monks, mendicants, and pilgrims who circumambulate the Jokhang.

Dinner is at the local restaurant.

Overnight in the Hotel

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Day 05

Depart Lhasa

On time transfer to the International airport to connect with flight to International destinations.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Location

Accommodations

Meals

Tsedang
Hotel Tsedang
D
Lhasa
Sheraton Four Points
B, D

Prices depend on dates, travel season and number of travelers.

Let’s talk soon about a photo tour customized for you and fellow travelers: 415-331-3791 or 800-403-7190 (USA/Canada)

Email us directly: A Different Perspective

FOR DEPOSIT ONLY Reserve Your Space Today

A deposit of $625.00 per person is required along with the Booking Form and the below signed Terms/Conditions Agreement Form to confirm a space on this tour. If there are two travelers on one form, the person signing assumes full financial responsibility.

Deposit Per Person: $625.00

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