Uncover Tibet’s profound spirituality and living heritage with this 6-day cultural journey. Delve into the rhythms of daily life in majestic monasteries, witness the making of thangka paintings and Tibetan crafts, and absorb Himalayan serenity in sacred courtyards and artisan neighborhoods.

Highlights

  • Visit Lhasa’s Jokhang Temple, Potala Palace, and bustling Barkhor Street.
  • Explore Drepung, Sera, and Ganden—monasteries renowned for ancient rituals and monastic debates.
  • Join interactive thangka painting or mandala sand art workshops led by master artisans.
  • Experience dawn and dusk prayers with monks, and try local butter tea in monastery tearooms.
  • Meet weavers, silversmiths, and mask-makers preserving Tibet’s unique artistic traditions.

6-Day Monastery & Artisan Journey

  • Day 1: Arrive in Lhasa, acclimatize, stroll Barkhor Street and Jokhang Temple at sunset.
  • Day 2: Guided visit to Potala Palace, lunch in Tibetan family kitchen, explore city markets.
  • Day 3: Morning at Drepung Monastery, afternoon in thangka or woodblock printing workshop.
  • Day 4: Excursion to Ganden Monastery outside Lhasa; walk kora pilgrimage path.
  • Day 5: Sera Monastery’s monk debates; visit artisan studios for mask and silverwork demos.
  • Day 6: Last strolls, tea ceremonies, and souvenir shopping before departure or onward travel.

Travel Tips

  • Dress modestly and bring socks for temple visits where shoes are removed.
  • Acclimatize for at least one day; drink extra water and avoid strenuous activity at first.
  • Ask before photographing people, especially inside monasteries and workshops.
  • Book workshops and cultural sessions in advance for personal guidance.
  • Sample yak butter tea, sweet pastries, and join monks for meditation if invited!