Learning From Locals in Tibet
Visit a local family home in a traditional Tibetan village located on the fringes of Lhasa, and get a glimpse into the life and style of the resident people there. Take a look at the simple design and ingenious architecture of Tibetan homes that stand strong through extreme weather conditions. Browsing the vibrant interiors, notice intricately carved furniture, bold motifs, spiritual symbols, and distinctive designs, mostly with red accents. After exchanging local greetings, sit down to chat with your hosts over rounds of butter tea and an assortment of traditional Tibetan snacks. Learn about their daily lives, local traditions, entertainment, and festivals, as your expert guide shares interesting information. Understand the farming practices in the region, as you drop by their backyard replete with horses, yaks, cows and more. (Duration: 1 hr; Private Activity & Transfer; Pick-up and Drop-off at hotel in Lhasa; Fitness level: Easy).
Highlights of Lhasa
Soak yourself in the mysticism that defines Lhasa! Marvel at the impressive Potala Palace set atop Marpo Ri hill which was built by the fifth Dalai Lama in the 17th century. Surrounded by 7th century architectural marvels that form a part of the complex today, this World Heritage site is at the very heart of Tibetan cultural heritage. Visit the ancient Jokhang Temple right in the center of Old Lhasa, an exquisite amalgam of ancient Indian, Tibetan and Nepalese design and architectural elements. Direct your steps towards the more than 200 year old UNESCO World Heritage site of Norbulingka or ‘jeweled garden’ – an ideal example of Tibetan palace architecture. Set amid lush gardens, this summer palace of the Dalai Lama also served as a religious and administrative center. Spend your evening ambling around the streets of the bustling Barkhor Bazaar as locals go about their daily lives amid shops laden with jewelry, artifacts, masks and other souvenirs. (Full Day, Time of Day: Morning; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy; Please bring comfortable walking shoes. Please note that climbing the steps of the Potala Palace can be tiring due to the thin level of oxygen.)
Learn About Tibetan Calligraphy
Visit a local family home in a traditional Tibetan village located on the fringes of Lhasa, and get a glimpse into the life and style of its residents. After exchanging local greetings, sit down to chat with your hosts over rounds of butter tea and an assortment of traditional Tibetan snacks. Gain an insight into their daily lives, local traditions and festivals from your expert guide. After learning about Tibetan alphabets, enjoy a brief lesson in Tibetan calligraphy – a sacred art and meditative practice that features freeform brushwork and may include words from Buddhist scriptures and religious figurines. (Duration: 1 hr; Private Activity & Transfer; Pick-up and Drop-off at hotel in Lhasa; Fitness level: Easy).
