Experience the Saga Dawa Festival: 4-Day Lhasa Tour Overview
As the star of Saga illuminates the sky in the fourth month of the Tibetan lunar calendar, the air fills with celebration for one of the grandest and holiest festivals. The Saga Dawa festival, spanning a month, commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and nirvana of Buddha Sakyamuni, all occurring within this auspicious period.
This vibrant festival paints a vivid picture of Buddha’s life, drawing pilgrims from across the globe to partake in the sacred Kora around the Jokhang Temple. Altitude Adventures (A2) presents an exclusive opportunity to witness this magnificent celebration firsthand. The Kora around Mount Kailash also holds deep significance for Buddhist pilgrims during this time, marked by acts of forgiveness, alms-giving to the needy, and the liberation of animals into their natural habitats.
Embark on a 4-day journey through Lhasa during this joyous occasion, immersing yourself in the festivities by visiting the revered Jokhang Temple, Drepung Monastery, and Sera Monastery.
Meals
Breakfast is typically provided as part of your B&B accommodation at no additional cost. However, for other meals in the city, you will need to pay separately. Fortunately, cities offer a diverse range of cuisines and dining options to suit various tastes. Our team is readily available to assist you in finding the perfect dining spot to satisfy your preferences.
In addition to regular meals, Himalayan Trekkers arranges Welcome and Farewell Dinners as a gesture of warm hospitality.
For further details, please refer to the comprehensive itinerary. Rest assured, we are committed to ensuring your journey is filled with memorable culinary experiences tailored to your desires.
Exploring Lhasa: A Journey through Culture and History
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa (3600m) 🕑 30 min private drive
Upon your arrival in Lhasa, a warm welcome awaits you from a representative of Altitude Adventurs (A2), who will escort you to your hotel. Take this opportunity to relax or venture out for a leisurely exploration, allowing yourself to acclimate after your long flight.
Meals: Bed and Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 2: Lhasa Sightseeing: Potala Palace & Jokhang Temple 🕑 1 Hour
Begin your day with a visit to the majestic Potala Palace, a symbol of Tibetan architecture and spirituality. Built in the 7th century, it has served as the winter residence of the Dalai Lama for centuries. Explore its ancient halls and discover the sacred burial stupas and meditation caves.
After a fulfilling lunch, proceed to the revered Jokhang Temple, founded in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. Marvel at the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni as a youth and join pilgrims on the holy kora around the temple. Conclude your day with Tibetan tea and a delightful dinner.
Meals: Bed and Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 3: Sightseeing Day 2: Sera & Drepung Monasteries with Barkhor Street 🕑 1 Hour
Wake up to another day of exploration, starting with visits to two of Tibet’s great Gelug monasteries. First, explore Drepung Monastery, established in 1416, known for its colossal kitchen and workshops on Buddhist sculpture carving.
Later, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Sera Monastery, renowned for its lively monk debates held daily from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along Barkhor Street, where you can shop for souvenirs and savor local delicacies.
Meals: Bed and Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 4: Departure 🕑 1 Hour
After three enriching days in Lhasa, it’s time to bid farewell to this enchanting city. Whether you continue your journey through Tibet or return to Nepal, Altitude Adventures (A2) ensures that your travel aspirations are boundless.
Meals: Bed and Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotels
INCLUDES:
- Permits and Visa Applications for Tibet.
- Hotel accommodation with breakfast included.
- English-speaking Tibetan guide as per the itinerary.
- Entrance fees to attractions.
- Guide fees.
- Land cruiser for transportation.
EXCLUDES:
- Drinks, tips, insurance, and any extra costs arising from unfavorable circumstances such as weather, road blockades, flight cancellations, etc.
- All personal nature expenses such as tips, donations, bar bills, etc.
- Meals.
- Travel insurance.
- Airfare to Lhasa and return journey.
