The Cradle of Tibetan Civilization
Want to trace the origination of Tibetan civilization? You must go to Tsetang which is reputed as “the cradle of Tibetan Civilization” because of its several magnificent "Firsts of Tibet" - the first Tibetan tribe of ancient time, the first slavery regime, the first monastery of Tibetan Buddhism... This tour start from Tsetang, and finish at Lhasa after explore the best highlights of Lhasa city.
Highlights of this tour
Welcome to Tibet, the holy land of Tibetan Buddhism! Your tour guide is ready to pick you up at the arrival hall, and escort you to your hotel in Tsetang Town. Enjoy the stunning views along the Yarlong Tsangpo River.
After check in, the rest of today is for you to acclimate to the high altitude and weather of Tibet. Avoid strenuous physical activities which may cause high altitude sickness.
Orientation Tips: 1) aoid vigorous activites but can take some leisure walking in the city to acclimatize the air and high altitude; 2) do not drink liquor in the arrival day, water and fruits are recommended.
Tsedang, located by Yarlung Valley as the capital of Shannan Prefecture, is reputed as “the cradle of Tibetan Civilization” because of its several magnificent "Firsts of Tibet" - the first Tibetan tribe of ancient time, the first slavery regime, the first monastery of Tibetan Buddhism... It has been the political center of Tibet for more than 800 years until the famous king of Tubo Srongtsen Gampo moved the capital to Lhasa in 7th century.
After breakfast, you are going to to visit the famous Yumbulakang Palace which is believed to be the first palace in Tibet. It was built in the second century B.C as the palace of royal families of Yalong Regime. There are many ancient sculptures and painting preserved in the palace. The second site to see is the Trundruk monastery where you will see a stunning Tangkha of Pearls decorated with a total of 29,026 pearls.
In the afternoon, take a visit to "the first Buddhist monastery of Tibetan Buddhism" - Samye Monastery which has stood on the Tibet land for more than 1,200 years. The monastery was totally built according to the structure of universe described in Buddhism theory, and combines the architectural features of Tibet, China and India.
Accommodate at Tsetang Town.
Today, you will leave Tsetang for Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet Autonomous Region. Driving along the Yarlung Zangbo River, you will take a sidetrip to the beautiful Yamdrok Lake on route.
With an altitude of 4,441 meters, Yamdrok Lake is known as one of the "Three Holiest Lakes", also one of the most beautiful lakes in Tibet. The turquoise pure lake overlies among snow-capped mountains. Surrounding the lakeshores are some peaceful Tibetan villages situating in the flat valleys. Looking to instance, you can still see clearly dotted yaks and sheep grazing on the grassland.
After enjoying the stunning landscape of Yamdrok Lake, drive to Lhasa city for accommodation.
After breakfast, start an incredible day of exploration in Lhasa city. The grandiose Potala Palace will be the first site to discover. After more than 1300 years of historical changes, this colossal palace still dominates the skyline of Lhasa city. The Palace is the political and religious center of Tibet and has served as the governance and preaching site for the Dalai Lama. Climbing up the sacred steps to the Red Palace and White Palace you will explore their marvelous interiors full of exquisite Thangkas, numerous Buddha statues, vivid wall paintings, and other works of Buddhist art.
In the afternoon, first visit the holiest Buddhist temple in Tibet, Jokhang Temple, where the 12-year-old-like Shakyamuni statue is consecrated. With a history stretching over 1,300 years, this temple combines the architectural styles of Tibet, China, Nepal and India. As a spiritual center of Tibet, Jokhang Temple attracts hundreds of devoted pilgrims to worship there every day. Outside the door of Jokhang Temple is the famous pilgrimage circle, Barkhor Street, where you can join faithful Tibetans in colorful attires walking the circle around Jokhang Temple.
Tips for today: 1) wear suitable headgear and glasses to protect you from strong sunlight, but do not wear any hat while visiting inside the Tibetan monasteries; 2) photography is not allowed inside the chapels of monasteries; 3) have your passport with you all the time.
After breakfast, we start our day with a visit to the summer palace of the Dalai Lamas and also the largest Tibetan garden - Norbulingka Park. The luxuriant trees and flowers, cool ponds and comfortable palaces make Norbulingka the best place for a summer retreat. Then drive about 5 km westward to Drepung Monastery. This monastery has played a crucial role in Tibet Buddhism as the school of the Dalai Lamas. As you walk along, immense temples and chapels leap to your eyes one after another. In its heyday, more than 10,000 monks lived and studied in the monastery. Various Buddhist rituals are performed in the monastery during festivals, most famous being the ceremony of Buddha Display in the annual Shoton Festival.
We will then visit the featured six hundred year-old Sera Monastery, famous for its grand ceremony of Buddhist debating and its beautiful temples with sensational icons, murals and history.
Tips for today: 1) please follow the Buddhist manners - talk in a low voice, always be respectful of others, reflect on the Buddha's teachings in these holy sites, and remain quiet and respectful when visiting temples 2) be sure to carry some water with you.
Today is free for you until your driver transfer you to catch your flight (or train) leaving Tibet. Please check your luggage and make sure everything is packed, and then check out from your hotel before 12pm.
Lhasa City & Suburb
Lhasa / Namtso
Lhasa / Gyantse / Shigatse/ Everest
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