5 Days Lhasa and Ganden Monastery Small Group Tour

Trip Overview:

Visit the Three Great Monasteries—the Drepung Monastery, the Sera Monastery, and the Ganden Monastery—all in one visit!

Monasteries held significant importance as social institutions in historical Tibet, serving as schools, vocational training centers, libraries, and pilgrimage sites. This 5-day Lhasa Monasteries group tour offers exploration of the most significant monasteries in Lhasa. Experience ancient monastery buildings, delve into Buddhist culture, and witness traditional monk debates to fully immerse yourself in the culture and religion of this sacred land. Embarking on a trek around Ganden Monastery stands out as a highlight, providing an opportunity to experience the culture up close and witness authentic Tibetan life in the local village. Besides, you will also not miss the meditation experience at Drak Yerpa Monastery.

Highlights:

Photos & Videos

Daily Itinerary

Tour Departures in 2025

Travel Time	Nov.1 to Next Feb.28	Mar.1 to May 31	Jun.1 to Jul.9	Jul.10 to Aug.20	Aug.21 to Sep.19	Sep.20 to Oct.10	Oct.11 to Oct.31
Price	599 US$	639 US$	699 US$	749 US$	699 US$	749 US$	639 US$

Lhasa and Ganden Monastery Trip Notes

• 1. When is the deadline to book this 5-day Lhasa and Ganden Monastery Small Group Tour?

  To ensure a seamless trip, it is recommended to book your Tibet tour at least 15-20 days before the departure date.

  Certainly, booking your tour 1-2 months or earlier in advance will assist us in arranging your Tibet Travel Permit and other necessary documents, as well as securing accommodations. Additionally, early bookings may qualify for early-bird discounts. This arrangement facilitates better preparation and a more relaxed journey.

• 2. What travel documents are required for a trip to Lhasa and Ganden Monastery?

  For traveling to Lhasa in Tibet, various tourists require specific travel documents:

  1) Foreign tourists: Passport, Chinese Visa, Tibet Travel Permit
  2) Tourists from Hong Kong and Macau: Home Return Permit
  3) Tourists from Taiwan: Mainland Travel Permit (MTP), Tibet Travel Permit, etc.

• 3. How to apply for the Tibet Travel Permit? How long does it take, and when can I get the permit?

  For foreign tourists applying for the Tibet Travel Permit, photos or photocopies of a valid passport and Chinese Visa are needed. Holders of a working visa need to additionally provide a work certificate, while student visa holders require student certification.

  However, Taiwanese tourists only need to provide photos or photocopies of Mainland Travel Permit for the Tibet Travel Permit application.

  Generally, processing the Tibet Travel Permit takes 7-14 working days. Once the permit is successfully issued, we'll mail it to your address in mainland of China 3-5 days before your departure date, ensuring you have it in hand for your train or flight to Tibet.

• 4. How to prevent from altitude sickness when taking this Lhasa and Ganden Monastery tour?

  The altitude in Lhasa sits at 3650 meters above sea level, while Ganden Monastery stands slightly higher at 3800 meters.

  For first-time visitors to Tibet, there's a potential risk of experiencing altitude sickness. However, there's no cause for concern. During the initial 3 days in Lhasa, you'll have ample time to acclimate to the high altitude of the Tibet Plateau. By the time you visit Ganden Monastery on the 4th day, your body will have adjusted to the elevation.

  It's wise to avoid strenuous exercise upon arriving in Lhasa. Instead, take the opportunity to rest in your hotel on the first day. Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and minimizing alcohol and smoking. This gradual adjustment and proper hydration will help mitigate the effects of high altitude during your visit to Ganden Monastery.

• 5. When is the best time to visit Lhasa and Ganden Monastery?

  The best time to visit Lhasa and Ganden Monastery is from April to October. During this period, the weather is pleasant, with moderate temperatures and high oxygen content, making it the most suitable season for travel.

  Even though July to August is the rainy season, it's also the peak tourist season. Rainfall typically occurs in the late evening or at night and generally doesn't affect daytime activities.

  Moreover, if you seek an economical trip to Lhasa, consider visiting during winter (November to March of the following year). Despite lower temperatures during winter, the days are mostly sunny, with temperatures staying above 10℃, while nights may drop below freezing, but you'll be back in the hotel's warm room by then.

• 6. What to pack for a Lhasa and Ganden Monastery small group tour?

  1) Clothing: Lhasa enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, yet has a significant temperature difference between day and night. So it's advisable to bring a warm jacket or coat regardless of when you visit to stay protected from the cold. Generally, light clothing suffices in summer, while in spring and autumn, at least three layers are recommended (base layer, sweater, outerwear). In winter, windproof outerwear is necessary. Layering allows for adjusting clothing according to temperature changes. Additionally, due to strong UV rays in Tibet, sunglasses and hats are essential.

  2) Personal Care Products: Skincare essentials such as facial cleanser, moisturizer, lotion, hydrating face masks, body lotion, lip balm, and sunscreen. Also, carry a thermos to ensure access to hot water anytime.

  3) Common Medications: Band-Aids, motion sickness medicine, cold medicine, gastrointestinal medication, anti-inflammatory drugs, eye drops, high-altitude sickness medication, and other necessary medications should be carried for emergencies. (Please adhere to medical advice and avoid excessive medication use.)

  4) Electronic Devices: Bring necessary electronic devices such as phone, camera, earphones, and chargers, including power banks and charging cables.

  5) Minimal Cash and Bank Cards: Though mobile payment is widespread in Lhasa, some places might still require cash payments. It's advisable to carry a small amount of cash and at least one bank card for your travel needs.