Your First 48 Hours in Lhasa: A Senior's Gentle Acclimatization Guide
It takes courage for senior travelers to choose Tibet—after all, the altitude here is far higher than anything on the plains. You may be wondering whether your body can handle it, or worrying about altitude sickness. However, your body is more adaptable than you think. Even young, healthy travelers can feel the effects of high altitude—it's not age-specific. The key is to take the first 48 hours seriously. With the right approach, you can acclimatize safely and comfortably. Here are some practical tips to help you do just that. Keep it in mind that only if you book a well-organized Tibet tour can you enjoy a rejuvenating sightseeing journey!

Day 1: Arrival—Your Only Job Is to Listen to Your Body
From the moment you land at the airport or train station in Tibet, our guide will greet you with a warm smile and—if needed—a supplemental oxygen canister. Our staff will drive you directly to your hotel, minimizing the risk to help you conserve energy. Remember, the key to a successful comfortable Tibet tour lies in following these golden rules:
No strenuous activity: Avoid brisk walking or carrying heavy luggage.
No immediate sightseeing: A short, gentle stroll near your hotel is enough.
No showers or hair washing: Hot water can increase circulation and elevate oxygen demand, potentially worsening altitude sickness.
Once you're settled, focus on rest:
Opt for semi-reclining instead of lying flat if you feel breathless.
Hydrate frequently with warm water or lightly salted glucose drinks. A humidifier in your room can also ease dryness.
Keep meals light: Try congee or noodles, and stop at 70% fullness.

Day 2: A Gentle Start—Stroll Through Flat Terrain
After a restful night, ease into exploration with a visit to Norbulingka Palace, the Summer Palace. Its flat paths, lush gardens, and tranquil atmosphere make it ideal for a senior-friendly Lhasa walk. Take it slow: pause on benches, watch locals enjoying their morning, and let the serene environment work its magic. This isn't just sightseeing—it's therapeutic acclimatization.
For your first cultural outing, we recommend Sera Monastery or Drepung Monastery. Both are located near Lhasa and easily accessible by our private tour vehicles, eliminating long walks or steep climbs. At Sera Monastery, you can witness lively monk debates in a courtyard setting, while Drepung Monastery offers sprawling vistas without strenuous hiking. These sites are perfect for a relaxed Lhasa itinerary that prioritizes your comfort.

Remember to:
Monitor your body: If you feel dizzy or short of breath, stop and rest immediately.
Wear supportive, non-slip shoes and consider using trekking poles to reduce knee strain.
Conclusion
Note that not all Tibet travel itineraries fit senior travelers with different health conditions. As an experienced travel agency, we provide personalized, professional altitude-health tips and exclusive slow-down itineraries that won't wear you out. More senior-friendly travel advice is available—simply contact us.


35 Comment ON "Your First 48 Hours in Lhasa: A Senior's Gentle Acclimatization Guide"
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash