Tashilhunpo Monastery

Arrive in Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet, either by flight or by road from Lhasa. Check into your accommodation in Shigatse and take some time to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude. In the afternoon, explore the local area around your hotel, perhaps visiting a nearby market or park. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring some authentic Tibetan cuisine.

After breakfast, visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, one of the largest and most important monasteries in Tibet. Explore the monastery complex, which includes various chapels, prayer halls, and living quarters for monks. Admire the stunning architecture and intricate artwork of the monastery, including the giant statue of the Future Buddha, which is the largest of its kind in the world. Take a guided tour of the monastery to learn about its history, religious significance, and daily life of the monks. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the monastery. In the afternoon, you can explore the surrounding area, perhaps taking a walk around the nearby market or visiting other cultural attractions. Return to your accommodation in the evening and have dinner at a local restaurant.

Spend the day exploring the city of Shigatse and its cultural attractions. Visit the Shigatse Dzong, a historic fortress located on a hill overlooking the city, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Explore the local markets and bazaars, where you can find a variety of handicrafts, Tibetan artifacts, and souvenirs. Visit the Shigatse Museum to learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the region. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant serving Tibetan specialties. In the afternoon, you can visit other attractions in Shigatse, such as the Tibetan Medicine and Astrology Institute or the local temples and monasteries. Return to your accommodation in the evening and have dinner at a local restaurant.

Take a day trip to Gyantse, a historic town located about 90 kilometers from Shigatse. Visit the Gyantse Kumbum, a stunning multi-story stupa adorned with thousands of Buddhist images and murals. Explore the Gyantse Dzong, an ancient fortress perched on a hill overlooking the town. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Gyantse. In the afternoon, you can visit other attractions in the area, such as the Pelkor Chode Monastery or the local market. Return to Shigatse in the evening and have dinner at a local restaurant.

Return to Tashilhunpo Monastery for further exploration and spiritual reflection. Participate in a meditation session or attend a prayer ceremony led by the monks. Explore the monastery grounds at your own pace, taking in the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, you can engage in other local activities such as visiting a Tibetan carpet workshop, trying your hand at traditional Tibetan crafts, or taking a scenic hike in the nearby hills. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Shigatse.

After breakfast, check out of your accommodation and transfer to the airport or train station for your onward journey. Depart from Shigatse, concluding your trip to Tashilhunpo Monastery.