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4 days Lhasa and Surroundings Winter Birding Tour

Tour Route: Lhasa-Lhünzhub County-Lhasa

Trip Overview:

If you are going to visit Tibet in winter and wish to see something different, then this 4-day birdwatching tour will be you perfect chance. Mainly travelling in and around the winter-warm city of Lhasa, you will visit its iconic landmarks, like Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, as you enjoy birdwatching in nearby amazing sites. The famous Zongjiao Lukang Park, Lhasa River and Shugsheb Nunnery are all popular attractions where you can enjoy a pleasant birdwatching experience with different sights in each place. Wonderful trip worthy your try!

  • Tour Code: TTO-TT-TWT04

  • Trip Level:

  • Tour Type: Private tour with private guide and vehicle

  • Time to Visit:

Highlights:

  • Enjoy birdwatching in popular sites around Lhasa and discover the unique birds on Tibetan Plateau.
  • Go down into the bowels of the Potala, the impressive but spiritless citadel of the Dalai Lamas.
  • Join the shuffling, murmuring pilgrims around the shrines of the Jokhang, the spiritual heart of Tibet.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Lhasa, Get the first impression of Tibet

Welcome to Tibet! Upon arrival, be greeted by our local guide at airport or train station and be presented with traditional Tibetan White Scarf to wish you good luck!

After group photo at airport, you will board on the coach and transfer to your hotel. You will enjoy the spectacular scenery and the typical Tibetan villages on the way.

Stay at the hotel after arrival for adapting to the high attitude. It is helpful to take things easy for the first few days, and try to drink some water just and now.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Day 2: Lhasa Tour: Potala Palace, Zongjiao Lukang Park, Norbulingka Palace

Start the morning from the Potala Palace, a golden feather upon the roof of the world, which Tibetans proudly claim to be the prime miracle since the creation of this world. It was put into use since the 7th Century by the 33rd great king of Tibet. The most valuable collections of Potala Palace are the gilded burial stupas of former Dalai Lamas and meditation Cave of the 33rd great king of Tibet.

Then it is on to the Zongjiao Lukang Park for the first bird watching session of the trip. It’s also a favorite place for locals to get their daily exercise, the park becomes the home of thousands of black-headed gulls and plenty of Ruddy Shelducks, Bar Headed Geese, etc. from November to around the middle of March every year, and the scene of the gulls hunting for food or just lazing on the waters of the small lakes with the Potala behind is an amazing shot.

After that, you will head to Norbulingka, where you can have your photo taken in traditional Tibetan clothes. Local photographers with a wide range of Tibetan outfits can take your picture in front of the palace or in the park, with the Potala Palace in the background as a momentous souvenir of your trip. You may also take a leisurely stroll and find lively birds in the woods inside the Norbulingka.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Day 3: Lhasa Tour: Jokhang Temple and Birding at Lhünzhub County, Lhasa River and Shugsheb Nunnery

After breakfast, we will enjoy the kora around Jokhang Temple. It is the center of the Tibetan Buddhism and the sacred land of Buddhist followers, where innumerable pilgrims come for worship every day. Inside, you can see the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni at the age of twelve, which is the most venerated object in Tibetan Buddhism.

Then, we will head out of the city to Lhünzhub County, to the northeast of the city on the banks of the Lhasa River. The river is a great place to witness and study migratory black-necked cranes, a rare and endangered species of crane that winters on the marshes and rivers of the area. You can also enjoy the Lhasa valley scenery and take photos of the birds nearby while driving along the River.

After that, we will head to Shugsheb Nunnery, which is another great place for birdwatching. It is also the largest nunnery in Tibet. A 45-minute hike from the road up to the nunnery, with its cave and shrine, this unique nunnery has amazing views down over the valley and is home to a huge number of indigenous birds, such as beautiful Tibetan Eared Pheasants, Tibetan snow cocks and pink Himalayan Rosefinches, etc.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Day 4: Finish This Unforgettable Tour and Depart from Lhasa

Our guide will transfer you to the airport or train station and help you get on board.

What’s included?

1. Free shuttle between airport/train station and Lhasa City (3 times a day)

2. Excellent local Tibetan English-speaking tour guide

3. AC tourist vehicle all through the trip in Tibet

4. All permits application service, and delivery the permit to your hotel in China before getting into Tibet

5. Drinking water provided daily

6. Welcome dinner at local Tibetan restaurant

7. Admission fee of all tourist attractions listed in Itinerary, including Potala Palace ticket booking service

8. Tibet tourist map & eco-friendly drinking bottle

9. Special dedicated authentic local custom experience: visit local teahouse, stone caving market. etc

10. Charge of handing all services in your tour, government tax

What’s excluded?

1. International flight to and out of China

2. Domestic flight / train to and out of Lhasa (If you need ticket booking service, please leave your requirements in the Online Inquiry form.)

3. Meals (Tour guide will organize the dinning for you but please pay on site for around 3-5 USD per meal.)

4. Accommodation in Lhasa (You are high recommended to book your favorite hotel in Lhasa online, or choose our hotel package from only 8 USD a night)

5. Tips and gratitude to the guide and driver. If you are satisfied with their service, you may consider tipping them at an amount you find it suitable

Trip Notes

  • 1. How to Get the Tibet Travel Permit?

    The Tibet Travel Permit is essential for any Tibet tour. We help to obtain this permit free of charge when you book your Tibet tour through us. Simply send us copies of your passport and China visa at least 20 days in advance. Once we receive your documents, we will promptly process the permit application with the Tibet Tourism Bureau. After obtaining your permit, we will notify you and send it to your hotel in mainland China.

    In exceptional cases, our staff can personally deliver the permit to you at the airport or railway station. With years of experience in handling Tibet Travel Permit, we assure you a smooth visit to Tibet by ensuring the acquisition of your permit.

  • 2. Where to Stay in Tibet?

    Accommodation facilities and services in Tibet might not match those found in the coastal and central parts of China. However, there's a diverse range of hotel options available. However, you can choose from a wide range of hotel options. In big cities like Lhasa and Shigatse, from cheap and clean youth hostels to distinct Tibetan-style 3-star and international 5-star luxury hotels, you will find one that suits your interests and budget.

    As you travel to remote areas of Tibet, such as EBC and the Mount Kailash region, the accommodations tend to be more basic. Some may have air-conditioning in the hotel, while others may only offer electric blankets in the guesthouses. Nonetheless, we always handpick cozy and safe accommodations for you along your itinerary in Tibet, ensuring a pleasant night's stay for your Tibet tour.

  • 3. How about the Guiding and Tipping in Tibet?

    Our English-speaking guides are natives of Tibet with good knowledge of Tibetan culture, history, and Buddhism. Most are trained to offer Western-standard service. Throughout your stay in Tibet, we will monitor your health and provide prompt assistance to you. If you encounter any trouble, please do not hesitate to contact them or our customer service manager.

    Travelers' tipping to Tibetan guides and drivers is seen as extra gratitude for their excellent service, much like what you do in the West. Normally, a tipping amount of 7 USD per day is acceptable. The basic principle is rewarding good service with fair pay.

  • 4. How are the Toilets in Tibet?

    Undoubtedly, for many Western tourists, using toilets in Tibet can be a challenging experience. Therefore, it's advisable to moderate your expectations. If you travel to Lhasa by Tibet train, both western-style and squat toilets are available onboard. Staying in hotels rated above 3 stars in cities like Lhasa and Shigatse ensures access to standard Western flush toilets, eliminating any discomfort.

    However, when visiting attractions like Yamdrok or Namtso or outdoor sites like EBC, you're likely to encounter smelly and unclean pit toilets. It's recommended to carry sufficient toilet paper for such occasions.

  • 5. How is the Weather in Tibet? What to Pack for Visiting Tibet?

    One of the notable weather features on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is the significant temperature fluctuation between day and night. In Lhasa, the annual temperatures range from -2℃ to 12℃ (spring), 9℃ to 22℃ (summer), 7℃ to 19℃ (fall), and -7℃ to 9℃ (winter). Ensure proper clothing, such as thermal tops, a fleece jacket, breathable underwear, a down jacket, jeans, a beanie, and other essentials.

    Moreover, essentials like sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses are crucial to shield yourself from the intense, blinding sunlight of the plateau. Staying hydrated by drinking more water and including vegetables in your diet is advisable to prevent dehydration during your travels in Tibet.

  • 6. How to Prevent from Altitude Sickness in Tibet?

    For first-time visitors to Tibet, whether arriving by flight or train, allowing ample rest is crucial for quick acclimation to the high altitude in Lhasa. Avoid rushing to explore the streets or attractions independently. Walk at a slower pace and refrain from exerting yourself by running or jumping. Spending at least two days in Lhasa before venturing to places like Shigatse or Namtso allows for better acclimatization. If you experience any discomfort, inform your guide, and they will assist you.

  • 7. Are There some Dos and Don'ts while Touring Tibet?

    Photography is generally prohibited in monasteries. If you wish to capture images of Tibetan pilgrims, kindly seek their permission or maintain a considerable distance while taking photos. Swimming and fishing are prohibited in the sacred lakes of Tibet. Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics. According to policy, international tourists are not permitted to travel alone in Tibet.

    While navigating Barkhor Street, adhere to the custom of walking clockwise. Refrain from exploring unfamiliar trails. Take proactive steps to preserve Tibet's delicate ecosystem.

    Given that Tibetan Buddhism profoundly influences the lives of Tibetans, always show reverence and respect for their unique customs. If uncertain about any practice, it's advisable to seek guidance from your tour guide before proceeding.

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  • Explore Mount Kailash

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What Our Customers Say

  • Once in a life time

    14 days from Beijing to Tibet and Nepal. The reality was beyond my expectations. A trip that I will remember for the rest of my life. The trip was arranged in an exceptional way! Laura Tang did an amazing job! She responded to all my questions immediately, she supported and solved any problems very quickly. The hotels she arranged for me were amazing!! ...More reviews

    Jan 2023 nico k
  • Nice view in winter!

    The view was magnificent. got to see snow and snow capped mountains. Thanks to Gemma Wei for helping with all the planning. Also thanks to Kunchok and Tsering for going accomodating to my needs as i was not used to the altitude. They also helped alot with the trek up the hills! ...More reviews

    Dec 2023 Benjamin X
  • Tibet is beautiful

    The tour was great! We visited amazing places and could feel the sacred atmosphere in all the temples. The nature is breathtaking with beautiful mountain and lake views. Our guide Jingme told us all about the history and showed us great places. All the hotels were much better than what I expected...More reviews

    Nov 2023 Krisyna H
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    The 8-day trip with Tibet Vista was remarkable, combining cultural depth with stunning Tibetan landscapes. Our guide Jig Me was really knowledgable, the journey well-organized, and each destination, especially Everest Base Camp, was a highlight. Great value; highly recommended...More reviews

    Nov 2023 George J
  • FANTASTIC!

    Visiting Tibet with Tibet Visa agency is a once in a life time experience! They take care of everything and you just need to enjoy! Our tour guide was AMAZING...More reviews

    Nov 2023 Alberto
  • Exploring Tibetan culture

    Tibet vista made the entry process into Tibet super easy. Jing mei our guide had a wealth of knowledge about all the locations we visited and happily answered questions we had. Also organising a birthday cake for one of the guests showed how thoughtful he was...More reviews

    Nov 2023 Dylan P
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    Nov 2023 philgiles
  • Private tour with guide and driver… wow!

    After much research, my wife gave the desired itinerary to the agency rep that she was working with. It covered a huge area from Lhasa all the way West to the Ali area and back along a Northern route. Of course having a private driver and Land Cruiser along with a very experienced guide, the trip was just fantastic... More reviews

    Oct 2023 howardxp1
  • Best trip I have ever had

    I just arrived home this morning after a one-month trip in India, Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan. I have travelled a lot in my life but this trip is the best trip I have ever had. It really stands out by its geographic particularity, historical and cultural knowledge and most of all, its emotional/spiritual impact...More reviews

    Sep 2023 hptranle
  • Unforgetable Tibet

    The trip was great, the view was amazing. Our tour guide, Gijme, is very professional and very knowledgeable about the sites and the history...More reviews

    Sep 2023 Deby Wahyuning H

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