I still remember the dizzy feeling when I set foot in Lhasa, my heart racing not just because of the 3,650m altitude but because of the scenery before me. A week later, I stood on the Great Wall, wind whipping, wondering why I hadn't done this sooner. This is a realistic, no-frills 7-day self-guided itinerary for anyone wanting to conquer these seemingly far-off destinations.
Quick Facts
- Best time: May-October, avoid winter in Tibet (very cold, many routes closed).
- Suggested days: 7 days (4 Tibet, 3 Beijing + Great Wall).
- Budget reference: About 15-20 million VND/person (includes domestic flights, accommodation, entrance fees, excludes visa).
- Transport: Flight from Beijing to Lhasa (about 4-5 million VND round trip), taxis and buses locally.
- Connectivity: China eSIM from SimNha (install before departure, stable even on the plateau).
Lhasa – City of Gods
On the first day, I spent time acclimatizing to the altitude. Advice: don't rush, drink plenty of ginger water, avoid alcohol.
Potala Palace
⚠️ Note: Must book tickets at least 1 week in advance via official website or ask your hotel. Peak season tickets sell out quickly.
Potala stands towering on the hill, with its red and white walls. It took me 2 hours to climb up, but inside is a labyrinth of gold, Buddha statues, and thangkas. Ticket 200 CNY (about 700k VND) – expensive but worth it. Tip: go early at 8am to avoid crowds.
Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Area
Jokhang Temple is the spiritual heart of Lhasa. I joined the stream of pilgrims turning prayer wheels, hearing whispered prayers. Entrance 85 CNY. Around it is Barkhor – the old quarter for shopping, but souvenirs are a bit pricey. I only bought a few khata scarves as gifts.
💡 Tip: Walk around Barkhor clockwise, like the locals.
Lake Namtso – Unreal Blue
On the second day, I booked a day tour to Lake Namtso (about 300 CNY, includes car and entrance fee). 4 hours from Lhasa, winding mountain roads, but when I saw the turquoise lake under the clouds, I forgot all fatigue. Altitude 4,718m, remember to bring a small oxygen canister (buy at Lhasa pharmacy, 30 CNY).
Beijing – Modern Ancient Capital
On the third day, fly from Lhasa to Beijing. I stayed in Dongcheng district, near the subway, renting a hostel room for 200 CNY/night.
Forbidden City
💡 Tip: Buy tickets online 10 days in advance, entrance 60 CNY in low season. Go early, avoid weekends.
I spent 3 hours wandering the Forbidden City, from Meridian Gate to the Imperial Garden. Vast, but quite crowded. Rent an audio guide (40 CNY) to learn more.
Great Wall – Mutianyu
On the last day, I chose Mutianyu – 1.5 hours from Beijing by bus (route 916 from Dongzhimen, 12 CNY). Less crowded than Badaling, beautiful scenery. Ticket 40 CNY. Climbing up to the watchtower, wind blowing, I sat for hours gazing at the layered mountains.
⚠️ Note: Wear sports shoes, bring water and snacks. Tiring climb but the feeling of standing on the Great Wall is indescribable.
Street Food – Dos and Don'ts
- Tibet: Try tsampa (roasted barley flour) and butter tea – unusual but nourishing. Avoid dried beef if you're not used to the spices.
- Beijing: Eight treasure porridge, steamed buns, and grilled skewers at Wangfujing street. Price 10-30 CNY per dish.
💡 Tip: In Tibet, eat light to avoid altitude sickness; drink warm ginger tea.
Stay Connected – eSIM for Your Trip
After the trip, I realized: traveling Tibet and China self-guided, the most important thing is staying in touch and using maps. SimNha's eSIM kept me online right after landing, no need to find a physical SIM. Set up before, stable both on the plateau and in the capital. Your trip will be much smoother if you don't have to worry about connectivity. Just go, the world is wide open, and a small SIM card will help you connect with it!
