- Trek towards Tampa, seeing nomadic villages, untouched mountain landscape, and beautiful valleys along the journey

   - Visit the Pabongka Monastery, said to be perched atop a divine plot of land, stopping to take in the views of Lhasa

   With its rich heritage, captivating display of spirituality, and stark evocative landscapes, the diverse attractions of Tibet are constantly vying for a travelers' attention. On this journey, we create a memorable highlights-filled tour designed specifically for travelers with only one week in Tibet. With our experienced guides and local experts, we help you get the most out of your visit, with an itinerary that combines the best and most historically important attractions of Lhasa, together with an thrilling 3 day outdoor excursion through a stunning section of the Tibetan countryside (the Dorjeling trek). This is a journey that is equal parts cultural sightseeing and moderately challenging hike, designed for those who want the best of both and within a relatively short span of time.

   We begin our journey in Lhasa, where we spend a few days acclimatizing in preparation for our hike ahead. We also take advantage of this time to visit the holy capital's landmark attractions of the Potala Palace, Drepung Monastery, Jokhang temple and Barkhor street, as well as a drive out to the nearby countryside to explore the college complex of Sera Monastery and the seldom visited Pabongka monastery (see "Feeling the Pulse" and "Soul of Tibet" packages for further details). On Day 5, we head out to Tsurphu Monastery and what will be the start of our 3 day trek. Setting off, we immediately lose ourselves in the vast and beautiful countryside of bare mountains and rocky valleys. We reach the Lading La pass on our first night, and set camp in the open sky and under Tibetan starlight. The next day, we continue to trek along the path, passing by groups of nomads and yaks, crossing streams and rivers, and catching views of spectacular snow-capped mountain ranges in the distance. After another day of moderate hiking through this wonderfully scenic  landscape, we reach our final destination of Dorjeling Nunnery, where we spend the rest of the afternoon exploring its simple but elegant confines and meeting with residents before taking our transport back to Lhasa for the end of our journey.

   Featured Trip Plan:

   Day 1: Arrive Lhasa, orientation & acclimatization; optional Barkhor streets and bazaars

   Day 2: Potala Palace; Drepung monastery, master lama private meeting; handicrafts & carpet workshop

   Day 3: Jokhang temple; local hospital visit, medicine workshop; visit to furniture artisan

   Day 4: Drive to Pabongka monastery, hike and views of Lhasa valley; Sera monastery, printing workshop, monk debate courtyard; local family visit; return to Lhasa

   Day 5: Drive to Tsurphu monastery; start of hike to Lading; overnight camping

   Day 6: Trek to Tampa; summit Lasala Pass (5,300m); overnight camping

   Day 7: Trek & arrive at Dorjeling nunnery; drive & overnight in Lhasa.

   Day 8: Depart for airport, end of journey