Tibet Family Tours with Child-Friendly Altitude Itineraries

A Tibet family tour with children can be exciting, but it should be thought carefully due to the high altitudes and potential health risks. I generally do not recommend bringing children under the age of 6 to Tibet, as they may be more susceptible to altitude sickness and other health issues. For children aged 6 to 12, it is important to carefully assess their physical condition and consult with a doctor before making the decision to travel. Older children and teenagers, typically over the age of 12, can usually handle altitudes up to 3,000 meters, similar to adults, but they should still follow gradual acclimatization guidelines. This includes spending a few days in Lhasa to acclimate to the high altitude and low oxygen content.

Lhasa and Shigatse Are the Most Child-Friendly Cities in Tibet

For your Tibet family trip, I highly recommend exploring Lhasa and Shigatse, the two largest cities in Tibet, along with their surrounding areas. Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet, is a cultural and historical wonder. It has an altitude of about 3,650 meters. Here, you can visit the world-famous Potala Palace, a magnificent symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and architecture. The Jokhang Temple, rich in Tibetan Buddhism significance, is filled with pilgrims and offering a deep sense of Tibetan religious culture. Lake Yamdrok, not far from Lhasa, has a rich variety of wildlife, such as migratory birds, and unique alpine plants, which might attract the kids deeply. Shigatse, at an altitude of around 3,840 meters, is also rich in attractions. Tashilhunpo Monastery, one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, is a must-visit. The tourist resources in both cities are abundant and concentrated. The attractions are not far from each other, and the traffic conditions between them are excellent. This means less time spent on long, tiring journeys for the kids. Moreover, Lhasa and Shigatse, along with their surrounding areas, have well-developed facilities. There are plenty of family-friendly accommodations that offer comfortable rooms and various services. Restaurants serve a wide range of cuisines, including both local Tibetan delicacies and international cuisine, ensuring that even the pickiest children eaters can find something to their taste. In case of any health concerns, there are also reliable medical facilities.

Recommended Child-Friendly Altitude Itineraries

6 Days Lhasa and Shigatse Tour

Throughout the tour, you'll explore the cultural gems of Lhasa. Visit Drepung Monastery, the largest monastery in Lhasa, and Sera Monastery to watch the vivid Buddhist debates. Take a group photo in front of the majestic Potala Palace, the world's highest palace, and engage in local Tibetan folk activities at Longwangtan Park. Visit Jokhang Temple to appreciate the sacred rituals. Furthermore, wander around Barkhor Street and experience Tibetan social culture in a sweet tea house. The journey then takes you from Lhasa to Shigatse via Gyantse. En route, marvel at the crystal-like Lake Yamdrok, enjoying panoramic views from the viewing platform and having a homestay visit with a farmhouse lunch. In Shigatse, you will visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the largest monastery in rear Tibet. Walk around the monastery with local believers for a kora and soak in the panoramic views. Explore the unique Samdruptse Old Market to do some shopping for your souvenirs before returning to Lhasa.

8 Days Lhasa Shigatse and Namtso Tour

The itinerary is a typical example of a child-friendly altitude itinerary designed for family tours in Tibet. Starting at an altitude of 3650 meters in Lhasa, the itinerary allows for a gradual acclimatization period, which is crucial for children to adjust to the high altitude safely. Each day, the itinerary includes visits to culturally significant sites such as the Potala Palace, Drepung Monastery, and Sera Monastery, providing educational and engaging experiences for children. In addition to the Tibetan Buddhism immersion, this trip will take you to Barkhor Street where your children can shop around, taste delicious Tibetan snacks, and witness Tibetan artisans making exquisite handicrafts. The itinerary also includes scenic drives and stops at picturesque locations like Lake Yamdrok, Karola Glacier, Lake Namtso, and Damxung Grassland which offer breathtaking views and opportunities for short, manageable hikes suitable for children. The inclusion of activities like visiting local villages by the lake and interacting with the Tibetan family adds a cultural richness to the tour, making it both informative and enjoyable for the whole family.

Conclusion

With well-chosen accommodations and a focus on family-friendly activities, these Tibet tour itineraries are sure to satisfy you. If you have something that wants to be involved in your Tibet trip, inform our travel consultants of your ideas and you'll get a wonderful customized Tibet trip!