Lhasa Namtso Lake Tour | Tibet Travel Permit

Lhasa Namtso Lake Tour 7 days 6 nights

Nepal

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Price on request

Duration

7.0 days

Best Season

May-Oct,

Transportation

private vehicle

Accommodation

Difficulty

easy

Max-Altitude

4718.0m

Meal

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The Lhasa Namtso Lake Tour commences, with a flight over the Himalayas. Following the Lhasa Tour we make our way to Namtso Lake also known as the lake situated approximately 60km northwest of Damxiong County. Extending 70km from east to west and 30km from south to north covering an area of 1,920 sq km at an elevation of 4748m above sea level it stands as Tibets lake and Chinas second largest saltwater body while being the worlds highest lake. Namtso Lake holds importance as one of Tibets three sacred lakes and attracts numerous pilgrims who journey from afar to pay their respects during the annual Trekking Namtso Lake Festival in the Tibetan calendar year of sheep.

During our time exploring Lhasa we eagerly anticipate the awe inspiring moment when we come across the Tibet lake. Yet lets not overlook the enchanting experiences of visiting the Potala Palace, Barkhor Bazaar and Jokhang Temple, in Lhasa. Every instance spent in Tibet is worth cherishing and etching into our memories deeply that its splendor stays with us long after we bid farewell to the marvels of Tibet. The entire journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu and back is a drive filled with adventure and enjoyment. Opting for a holiday at Namtso Lake is a choice, for any thrill seeker looking to discover divine beauty within a limited timeframe.

Lhasa Namtso Lake Tour Highlights

Witness glaciers, historic monasteries, sacred lakes, exotic wildlife, majestic mountain ranges and charming villages, on your journey to Lhasa.

Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the north face of Mount Everest.

Discover. Tour the revered Potala Palace once the residence of the Dalai Lama.

Immerse yourself in Tibets heritage.

Savor the tranquil beauty of Namtso Lake.

Stroll, through the Barkhor Bazaar and soak in its atmosphere.

Main attractions of this tour

Namtso Lake

Namtso Lake is situated on the border, between Damxung County of Lhasa and Baingiin County of Nagqu in Tibet known as a body of water alongside Lake Manasoravar and Yamdrok Lake. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty it is a destination for photography enthusiasts during the summer months. This serene location offers not a setting but also serves as a captivating spot for tourists seeking spiritual rejuvenation and engaging in adventurous activities, like hiking in Tibets scenic landscapes.

Potala Palace

The grand Potala Palace proudly stands on the Red Hill symbolizing the essence of Lhasa. With a view of the city this magnificent palace has observed the changes, in this region over time. Originally constructed in 1649 as a winter retreat for the Dalai Lama it holds a position as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A trip to Lhasa would be incomplete without immersing oneself in the wonders of the Potala Palace. Beyond its captivating frescoes and Buddha sculptures that narrate Tibets history it offers a vista of Lhasa from its elevated position, atop the mountain at the core of this sacred city.

Jokhang Temple

The Jokhang Temple, known as the monastery, in Tibet has greatly shaped the design of the city of Lhasa. It's safe to say that the very essence of Lhasa city is deeply intertwined with the presence and significance of the Jokhang Temple.The homes of people, in Lhasa were organized in a pattern centered around the Jokhang Temple. For pilgrims from areas coming to Lhasa paying respects to the 12 year golden statue of Shakyamuni at the Jokhang Temple is a dream they cherish throughout their lives. Princess Wencheng presented this statue as a gift as part of her marriage, to Tubo King Songtsen Gampo.

Barkhor Street

The homes of Tibetans, in Lhasa were positioned around the Jokhang Temple serving as its point. For individuals from outside Lhasa visiting the Jokhang Temple to honor the 12 year bronze statue of Shakyamuni is a lifelong dream. This revered statue was presented by Princess Wencheng as part of her dowry when she married Tubo King Songtsen Gampo. Barkhor Street, which spans 1000 meters forms a pathway encircling the Jokhang Temple. Comprises Barkhor East Street, Barkhor West Street, Barkhor South Street Barkhor North Street along with 35 additional narrow lanes and alleys that showcase the essence of Lhasas city life and the distinctive Tibetan culture. While tourists can explore cuisine and buy souvenirs on Barkhor Street for Tibetans it holds spiritual significance as a sacred route. Walking alongside locals during the Barkhor Kora allows you to experience this revered path firsthand. The Barkhor Kora serves as a pilgrimage route for Tibetans who circumambulate the Jokhang Temple via Barkhor Street in a clockwise direction. Some pilgrims even perform prostration rituals while chanting prayers during their journey, on this path.

Sera Monastery

In Sera Monastery, one of the three monasteries, in Tibet you can observe monks engaging in debates in the afternoons. These discussions provide a platform for monks to explore topics of knowledge. During these debates both sides use gestures to emphasize their arguments. May enthusiastically prod their opponents for responses. They also symbolically incorporate prayer beads to invoke the blessings of Buddha during their discussions. These monk debates occur every afternoon from Monday to Saturday at the debate courtyard, within Sera Monastery.

Drepung Monastery

Drepung Monastery, situated in Tibet is one of the three monasteries belonging to the Gelugpa sect. It is renowned for its temples and the remarkable Buddha exhibition held during the Shoton Festival. During the Shoton Festival, the unveiling of the Buddha, at Drepung Monastery marks the start of the celebrations. A large Thangka portraying Buddha is displayed on a hillside behind the monastery attracting locals and tourists from around to witness this event. Located on Gambo Utse Mountain Drepung Monastery provides views of Lhasa River and valley offering visitors a glimpse of Lhasa city from a perspective. Explore its ambiance, from this vantage point.

Shigatse

Shigatse, also known as Xigatse is a junction, on the road network linking Lhasa, Nepal and western Tibet. The attractions in Shigatse include landscapes and impressive monasteries such, as Mt. Everest, Rongbuk Monastery, Mount Cho Oyu, Tashilhunpo Monastery, Shalu Monastery, Nartang Monastery, Peikutso Lake, Palkor Chode Monastery, Sakya Monastery, Phuntsoling Monastery & Jonang Kumbum Stupa, Yungdrungling Monastery, Pala Manor and more. These places have welcomed visitors over the years.

Itinerary

Our journey begins with our departure, from Kathmandu on the day. We are scheduled to take a morning Trans flight to Lhasa, where we will have the opportunity to soar over majestic Mt. Everest. Upon arrival a team member will accompany you to your accommodations, in Lhasa, where we will spend the night.

Begin your day of discovery, in Lhasa by visiting the Potala Palace, an architectural marvel renowned for its beauty. Ascend the palace through winding stone pathways lined with striking and red walls until you reach the pinnacle, where you can admire the Tibetan style architecture and enjoy panoramic views of Lhasas bustling urban landscape. Venture inside the Potala Palace to explore its chapels and delve into the history encapsulated within its walls.

Next on your itinerary is a visit to Jokhang Temple, revered as the nucleus of Tibetan Buddhism. Witness throngs of pilgrims from corners of Tibet flocking to this sacred site daily to pay homage to the Buddha. Often referred to as the "abode of Buddha " this temple houses the revered Jowo Rinpoche, a life statue of Shakyamuni at 12 years old. Conclude your day with a stroll, along Barkhor Street, a thoroughfare encircling Jokhang Temple where locals partake in leisurely walks during late afternoons as part of their customary pilgrimage ritual. The street is filled with stores offering a range of authentic Tibetan products, religious artifacts and handmade crafts.

In the morning start your day with a visit, to Drepung Monastery, the monastery housing over 10,000 monks where lively Buddhist debates take place. The grand white architecture of the monastery resembles a pile of rice from a distance earning it the name "Monastery of Collecting Rice" in Tibetan. Explore the lives of monks during your visit.

In the afternoon venture to Sera Monastery for a hike amidst picturesque valley views. Enjoy a relaxing picnic. Established in 1419 Sera Monastery serves as a Buddhist learning center. Known for its rose gardens it is often referred to as "the court of wild rose." Today around 200 lamas reside within its walls. Witness a debate session, among the monks before heading to Lhasa.

Once you've thoroughly explored Lhasa you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the scenery as you embark on adrive, along the emerald waters of Lake Yamdrok, one of Tibets sacred lakes. The lake sits hundred meters below the road resembling a coiled scorpion. In the distance looms the imposing massif of Mt. Nojin Kangtsang (7191m).

Continuing on you'll pass by the Karo la Glaciers at an altitude of 5,010 meters. Then journey onward, to Gyantse (at 3,950m) via Simi La. Discover the beauty of Pelkor Monastery and the impressive Kumbum Stupa both constructed in the century and located on the outskirts of Gyantse. Later, in the day take a 90 kilometer drive to Shigatse (3880m) Tibets largest city, with a population of 40,000 and the historical capital of Tsang.

Upon reaching your destination delve into the charm of Tashilumpo Monastery, the residence of the Panchen Lama. This serene haven resembles a quaint walled town with cobblestone pathways meandering around a monastery.

Today we will embark on a drive, to Namtso Lake, a journey that typically takes 4 hours. This stunning lake is nestled in the Damshung county. Is renowned for its breathtaking beauty. Being one of the saltwater lakes Namtso boasts crystal clear blue waters that reflect the clear skies above creating a mesmerizing panorama. Visiting Namtso Lake is an experience for any traveler exploring Tibet as it symbolizes purity and tranquility in the Qinghai Tibet Plateau. In culture Namtso translates to 'Heavenly Lake'. Holds significant spiritual importance as one of Tibets three sacred lakes. With its altitude of 4720 meters area spanning 1961 square kilometers and exquisite natural vistas Namtso is truly a sight to behold. After a day filled with awe inspiring views we will rest at a guesthouse, by Namtso Lake for the night.

Early, in the morning wake up. Witness the sunrise while capturing the beauty of the morning light with your camera. The Yingbin Stone, Gassho Stone and Good and Evil Hole offer spots to admire the sunrise and capture the lake views. Additionally the Hilltop on Tashi Peninsula provides a vantage point to photograph the sunrise, over Namtso Lake and Nyainqentanglha Range.

Our tour is over as we prepare to leave Lhasa for Kathmandu on the day. We will start our journey with an early morning arrival, at the airport followed by a flight, to Kathmandu that promises views of majestic mountains and beautiful landscapes.

Included & Excluded Items in the Trip Package

Included

Private transportation
All Monastery entry fees
English-speaking Tibetan Guide
3 star accommodation in a sharing room
Daily breakfast
Tibet travel permit

Excluded

Flight transportation between Kathmandu and lhasa
Insurance
Personal expenses such as drinks, tips, porter charge, etc

Things to Do at Namtso Lake

When you explore Namtso Lake not can you admire the scenery but there are also numerous activities to engage in. This region is a habitat, for bird species, with a number of them residing here all year round rather than just passing through during migration. Some of the birds you can spot around Namtso Lake include Brown headed Gulls, Bar headed Geese, Ruddy Shelducks and Common Terns. Additionally the majestic Black necked Crane can be found in the wetlands surrounding Namtso Lake.

Namtso Lake serves as a location for conducting studies and monitoring changes in the overall ecosystem of the Qinghai Tibetan Plateau. It acts as a natural research center due, to its diversity of ecosystems, including glaciers, tundra, seasonal snow cover, lakes, meadows, wetlands and more.

Best time to Visit Lhasa Namtso Lake

Namtso Lake, situated at an altitude of 4,718 meters experiences temperatures compared to Lhasa (3,750 meters). The area is known for snowfall, which can create road conditions and limited visibility sometimes causing the closure of roads, to Namtso. Snowfall becomes more frequent in October leading to freezing of the lake surface that typically persists until May.

We recommend that travelers plan their trips, to Namtso Lake during the least snowfall season, which typically runs from May to September. Late April is also an option. Its not considered the time to visit. These months offer weather and favorable road conditions. While July and August see rainfall in the region with an average of 108mm precipitation its not considered weather at Namtso Lake.

Avoid visiting from November to April as these months have temperatures with January being the coldest. During this time the Namtso Lake Scenic Spots may be closed to tourists.

May is a time to explore Namtso Lake as the ice, on the lake surface starts melting by then marking the beginning of a trip.

During the months of June, to September the temperature typically increases by around 5 degrees Celsius marking a change in the weather. This period extends through July, August and September bringing about greenery in the grasslands near the lake wildflowers, in full bloom and a variety of water birds gracefully nesting on the islets.

You can still go on the hike in October. Just make sure to check the weather especially if you're thinking of visiting the lake in October.

Tibet Festival Dates

If a traveler manages to plan their trip, to Tibet during one of these festivals it will truly be an experience. Lhasa is filled with pilgrims during these periods adding colors and lively energy to the city. As Tibetans adhere to their calendar its recommended to double check the festival dates based on the Tibetan calendar. Here are some notable festivals that take place in Tibet.

Tibetan New Year (March 3)

Yalong Cultural Festival (July 25)

Saga Dawa Festival (June 14)

Horse Racing Festival, Gyantse (20-27 July)

Shoton Festivals (August27, September 3)

Altitude Sickness Concern

Namtso Lake is located at an elevation of, around 4718 meters. Acute mountain sickness (AMS) may occur above altitudes of 3000 meters. In case you happen to catch a cold before your planned trip to Namtso it's advisable to postpone your visit until you have fully recovered or consider canceling it. Visiting Namtso Lake while feeling unwell could worsen your condition due to the altitude. May even lead to potentially life threatening pulmonary edema. Its recommended to walk at a pace and avoid activities like running or jumping. Spending at two days in Lhasa prior to heading out to destinations such, as Shigatse or Namtso allows for acclimatization. If you experience any discomfort make sure to inform your guide so they can provide assistance. Should you develop symptoms of altitude sickness while already at Namtso Lake here are some steps you can take;

If you find yourself in need of help it's important to reach out to your tour guide or travel companion first. They can assist you. Arrange for help if necessary.

The closest hospital, Damxung Peoples Hospital is 100 kilometers away, from the entrance of the area. While it offers care its facilities are quite basic. Since Damxung lies on the route from Namtso Lake to Lhasa in cases of emergencies it's advisable to transport the patient to a hospital, in Lhasa for medical attention.

Tips for proper acclimatization

Descend to a lower altitude before bedtime

Try not to overexert yourself unnecessarily

Make sure to climb and take your time

Remember to drink water during the trip

Steer clear of alcohol and smoking

Ensure you eat enough carbohydrates

Keep your body warm at all times

Consider bringing medications like diamox with you on the journey.

Accommodation:

In areas lodging usually consists of rooms but a single supplement can be added for an extra cost. In regions, during periods securing single or twin rooms can be challenging, so our accommodations typically feature dormitory-style options. Our main focus is on ensuring our guests have access, to secure rooms.

Meals:

In Bhutan our packages come with meals throughout the day covering breakfast, lunch and dinner. During treks all meals are taken care of; however you'll have to pay for beverages and snacks.

Following are main food items available

Tsampa

Momo

Thukpa

Yak Meat

Butter Tea

Sha Balep

Tingmo

Shapaley

Dre-si

Laping

Drinking water during the Lhasa Namtso Lake Tour

You have the option to buy water or boiled water from shops and restaurants, for drinking. Alternatively you can also get water from sources, like rivers and taps. Its recommended to use water purification tablets if you're drinking water from these sources.

Flight and Ground Transportation

The cost of the flight, from Kathmandu to Lhasa International Airport is not included in our package. However transportation within Tibet is included in the 4 night 5 day tour package. You will have access to vehicles for your stay, in Tibet, including airport transfers, hotel transport and sightseeing excursions.

Lhasa Namtso Lake Tour Guide

When you make a reservation, with BoldHimalaya you can trust that we provide guides for our clients. Our welcoming and English speaking Tibetan guides not lead the tour. Also share interesting facts and historical insights about the area help you when necessary and ensure your journey is memorable. Having our guide, with you makes exploring the city interacting with locals and immersing yourself in their cultures accessible and rewarding.

Communication and Network

In Kathmandu Wi Fi will be available. Once we head towards the areas of Nepal internet access may be limited. To ensure emergency communication the tour guide will have a satellite phone, on hand. Wi Fi connectivity is more reliable in Tibet compared to Mansarovar and during the Parikrama. E sims are commonly offered for data use on devices but popular social media platforms, like WhatsApp and Facebook are banned in China.Although you can use these apps by using VPN.

Lhasa Namtso Lake Tour Packing List

Head:

Sun hat

Sunglasses with UV protection

warm fleece hat

Lower Body:

Fleece or wool pants

Waterproof shell pants

Lightweight cotton long pants

Lightweight thermal bottoms

Feet:

Lightweight inner socks

Thick wool hiking socks

Hiking boots

Upper Body:

T-shirts

Down vest or jacket

Lightweight thermal tops

Fleece jacket

Waterproof shell jacket

Tibet Group Visa (TGV):

Travelers, from any country planning to travel to Tibet from Nepal must secure a Tibet Group Visa (TGV) in Kathmandu through a tour operator. To ensure a TGV application process it is recommended to arrive in Kathmandu 3 4 business days to your planned departure. If you are arriving from China you will not require a TGV; instead you will need a Chinese Visa and Permit. For information on entering Tibet please explore the Tibet entry procedure.

The necessary documents, for applying for a group visa include;

Application Form

A passport-sized photo

a passport that is valid for at least six months

copies of your passports

How to Get the Tibet Travel Permit?

To embark on a Tibet tour securing the Tibet Travel Permit is crucial. When you book your Tibet tour, with us we assist in obtaining this permit at no cost to you. Simply gather your travel documents, including your passport, personal photos and a detailed itinerary complete with hotel and flight confirmations. Send us scanned copies of the information page of your passport and Chinese Visa page via email. We will take care of submitting the Tibet Permit application to the Tibet Tourism Bureau on your behalf. Once we secure your permit we will inform you promptly. Send it directly to your hotel, in mainland China.

Insurance

We highly advise all individuals intending to journey through the Himalayas to acquire Travel Insurance. This insurance plan offers protection, for emergencies, evacuations, theft, loss of items as well, as sudden tour or ticket cancellations. Securing this coverage is essential to guarantee a pleasant travel experience.

Tipping

In Tibet, it's practice for travelers to tip their guides and drivers as a way to show appreciation, for their service, similar to how its done in Western countries. Typically giving around 7 USD per day as a tip is considered appropriate. The main idea is to acknowledge and reward service, with compensation.

Tibet Currency

In Tibet they use the Chinese Yuan (CNY) as their currency, also known as the Renminbi (RMB). They don't accept currencies for transactions; you need to convert them to Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB) before making any purchases.