5 Days Lhasa Winter Tour: Bird Watching & Gandan Monastery

In the morning, drive about 35min (12km) to visit Drepung Monastery which was the largest Tibetan monastery (Gelug Sect, Yellow Hat) in Lhasa. It used to be Dalai Lama’s palace before he moved to the Potala Palace in the 17th century. Now it is famous for Drepung Shoton Festival held each August, people come to offer yogurt to the monks who finished the 100 days’ meditation while enjoying the grandest Buddha (thangka) unfolding ceremony. Besides the unique architecture and amazing buildings, you can watch monks debating in Tibetan Buddhism vibrant and active with expansive gestures, clapping, and stamping. After Drepung Temple, you will have about a 2-hour Tibetan culture tour, which includes an introduction, Tibetan incense making, and block printing.

In the afternoon, drive another 40min (14km) to visit Sera Monastery. Step on one of the most beautiful monastery compounds, and its white stone roads and walkways makes you feel almost Mediterranean. The highlight of Sera Monastery is watch the monks’ debate at around 15:00 – 17:00 (except Sundays). It is an interesting form of debate, you can see one monk, the questioner, standing while the answerer or group of answerers, sitting. The standing monk will ask question and slap his palms and stomp, each action has its special meaning, such as activating wisdom, and are not meant to be aggressive.

Then, you will visit a local Tibetan family to get an intimate look at their traditional home, learn about their authentic way of life, and try traditional Tibetan cuisine (such as zaba, butter tea, and other snacks).

After that, be escorted back to your hotel in Lhasa.

Start your day with an early transfer to Linzhou County (林周县), located about 65 km north of Lhasa (a scenic 1 to 1.5-hour drive). Sitting at an average altitude of 4,200 meters, Linzhou is a renowned winter bird-watching paradise, offering breathtaking landscapes of mountains, grasslands, wetlands, rivers, and lakes. This diverse ecosystem creates the perfect habitat for a wide variety of bird species, with the iconic black-necked cranes – an endangered species and a cherished symbol of Tibet – being the highlight. You’ll also have the chance to spot other fascinating species such as the bar-headed goose, ruddy shelduck, Himalayan griffon, and brown-headed gull.

The Linzhou Black-Necked Crane Nature Reserve, established in 1993 and upgraded to a national-level reserve in 2003, is home to some of the best bird-watching spots. The vast valleys surrounding the county seat, particularly Qiangga Village and Karzi Township, form the heart of the reserve. Upon arrival, you’ll be captivated by flocks of birds gracefully wandering the farmlands – either in groups or family pairs.

Your bird-watching adventure will focus primarily on Hutoushan Reservoir (虎头山水库), the prime location to witness large flocks of black-necked cranes. The sight of these magnificent birds soaring against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains creates a truly harmonious and picturesque experience. If time allows, a visit to Karze Reservoir (卡孜水库) will provide another fantastic opportunity to observe the cranes and other migratory birds in a serene setting, ideal for bird photography.

Bird Watching & Photography Tips:

• Try to arrive before 9 a.m. when the cranes are most active.
• Maintain a respectful distance and avoid feeding or disturbing the birds.
• Avoid using a flash to prevent startling them.
• Opt for neutral or earth-toned clothing, as bright colors can easily alert and disturb the birds.

In the afternoon, take another scenic drive to Ganden Monastery (甘丹寺), located about 70 km from Linzhou (1.5 to 2 hours by car). Founded in 1409 by Tsongkhapa, the revered founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, Ganden Monastery holds the distinction of being the first and most significant monastery of the Gelug tradition.

As you ascend the winding mountain road, the majestic white complex of Ganden Monastery gradually comes into view – an awe-inspiring sight that is sure to leave you breathless. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the serenity of the Main Prayer Hall, where thousands of Buddha statues, intricate murals, and sacred religious artifacts await your discovery. Witness the monks engaged in prayer and rituals, offering a glimpse into their daily spiritual practices. A highlight of your visit is the renowned statue of Tsongkhapa, including a cherished depiction of him as an 8-year-old child.

After the tour, be escorted back to your hotel in Lhasa.