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15 Days Eastern Tibet Loop

Tour Route: Lhasa-Nyingchi-Rawok-tso-Chamdo-Nagqu-Namtso-Lhasa

Trip Overview:

Equally remote are the stunningly scenic routes through eastern Tibet. This land cruiser loop takes you through dramatic scenery to some rarely-visited corners of Tibet. Starting from Lhasa, the southern route heads east over a high pass to the forested Draksum-tso, then proceeds to the fascinating Kongpo region and the lovingly restored Lamaling Temple. From here, the road climbs to offer views of the 7756m Namche Barwa before descending into the dramatic misty gorges north of the Yarlung Tsangpo. Allow some time at Rawok-tso before swinging north over high passes and descending into the deep parallel gorges of the Salween and Mekong Rivers.

After a visit to Jampaling Monastery in Chamdo, the northern route continues westwards to Nagqu, passing the very impressive and remote Riwoche Temple and several other smaller but absolutely charming Buddhist and Bön monasteries. This tour finishes with a visit to the magnificent Nam-tso, which casts the valley floor in a miraculous shade of turquoise, while the stunning 7000 m peaks encapsulate you in a lost world.

  • Tour Code: TTO-NP-LL-15

  • Trip Level:

  • Tour Type: Private tour with private guide and vehicle

  • Time to Visit:

Highlights:

  • Fully explore the sunlight city Lhasa with its well-known palace of Potala and holy monasteries of Jokhang, Sera and Drepung.
  • Follow monks, mendicants and fellow pilgrims around the Barkhor, Lhasa’s fascinating medieval pilgrim circuit.
  • Take a prefect photo of Draksum-tso, a sublime alpine lake with a fairy-tale island monastery.
  • View the magnificent scenery from Nyingchi to Pomi, climbing from lush subtropical forest to alpine valleys and snowy passes.
  • Picnic by the stunning turquoise waters of Rawok-tso, a mirror lake fringed with snow-capped peaks.
  • Peer up in awe at the towering statues of the remote Riwoche Tsuglhakhang.
  • Follow the pilgrims around the charming Lamaling Temple, shaped like Guru Ringpoche’s celestial paradise.
  • Join the monks in a debate at Chamdo’s Galden Jampaling Monastery, one of the largest monastic communities in Tibet.
  • Get a taste of the northern Changtang at the turquoise waters, snowy peaks and nomads’ tents of stunning high-altitude Lake Namtso.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa, Get the First Impression of Tibet

Welcome to Tibet! Upon arrival, our Tibetan guide will greet you at the airport or train station and present you with a Hada (the traditional Tibetan ceremonial scarf) to wish you good luck!

You'll then be transferred to your hotel in downtown Lhasa by the guide and driver. Along the way, you can enjoy the spectacular scenery of Yarlung Tsangpo River, Lhasa River, and the typical Tibetan villages.

After arriving at the hotel, take some time to rest and acclimate to the high altitude. It's helpful to take it easy for the first few days and remember to stay hydrated by drinking water.

Later in the afternoon or evening, your guide will welcome you with traditional Tibetan gifts, provide travel guidance, and introduce you to the other members of your group.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Warm Tips:
If you require any assistance or have specific needs, please don't hesitate to visit our service center located at Gangjian Hotel.

Day 2: Lhasa Tour - Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery

Today, you will first visit the Drepung Monastery, the largest monastery in Tibet that once housed over ten thousand monks. Here, you'll explore the Coqen Hall, where your guide will provide a detailed explanation of the Tibetan Buddhist worldview and narrate the stories of renowned figures in Tibetan Buddhist history.

Additionally, you'll tour the Loseling College (or an equivalent) within Drepung Monastery to understand monks' practices and studies. Exploring their dormitories will offer insight into their daily routines and living conditions.

In the afternoon, the tour proceeds to Sera Monastery, established in 1419 and long regarded as a significant Buddhist seminary. Here, you'll observe the renowned monk debates, a highlight of Sera Monastery. Your guide will provide a comprehensive explanation of how these debates aid monks in acquiring knowledge and advancing through academic degrees.

After today's sightseeing, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow members.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Day 3: Lhasa Day Tour: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street

After breakfast, your guide will accompany you to visit the magnificent Potala Palace, where you'll stand atop its heights and gaze down upon the city of Lhasa. Your guide will narrate the life and tales of the successive Dalai Lamas within the Potala Palace and meticulously introduce the various halls and treasures housed within its walls.

Once you've explored the grandeur of the Potala Palace, your next stop will be Longwangtan Park nestled at its base. This tranquil spot offers a unique vantage point to admire the majestic Potala Palace and partake in traditional Tibetan cultural experiences.

In the afternoon, you'll head to the sacred Jokhang Temple—the heart of Tibetan faith and life. Within the temple resides the rare and revered 12-year-old statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, an image so lifelike that it resembles seeing the Buddha in person. Around the temple is Barkhor Street, where you can take a clockwise kora, witnessing how local Tibetans practice their Buddhist beliefs.

Following this, your guide will take you to the liveliest indoor Tibetan tea house in Lhasa, where you can enjoy Tibetan sweet tea with locals. Your guide will join everyone, sharing insights into the social relations and daily leisure life of Tibetans.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Day 4: Lhasa - Draksum Tso - Bayi (490Km, 7-8hours)

After breakfast, drive from Lhasa to Nyingchi. On the way, you will cross over Mila Pass and enjoy the scenery along the Niyang River.

In the afternoon, drive to visit Draksum Tso, also known as Basum-Tso. The lake and its surrounding views are beautiful, and the site is also connected to the semi-mythical ruler of the Kham region and Guru Rinpoche.

Take a ferry ride from the southern shore of the lake to visit Tsodzong Monastery, most likely the highest attraction of this site.

Day 5: Bayi Highlights - Lamaling Monastery and Cypresses Park

Drive to visit an ancient Gelug Monastery, Buchu, which lies only 18 miles south of Bayi. If the heavy rain has not damaged the road, visit the nearby Lamaling Monastery.

In the afternoon, visit the nature reserve with 2500-year-old cypresses in Bayi.

Day 6: Bayi - Lunang Forest - Bomi (240Km, 6-7hours)

Drive from Bayi to Bomi. On the way, you will pass the Serkhym-la, which is over 4500m high, and enjoy good views of Namche Barwa and Gyala Pelri.

After crossing the Serkhym-la, the road descends past gorgeous alpine valleys lined with rhododendron bushes into the Rong-chu valley, also known as the Lunang forest.

Day 7: Pomi - Rawok-tso - Pasho (219Km, 6-7hours)

The way from Pomi to Pasho, you will visit the beautiful lake Rawok-tso, see glaciers, snow-capped mountains, forests, local villages.

Day 8: Pasho - Pomda grasslands - Chamdo (270KM, 6hours)

From Pasho the road east passes picturesque villages and chortens, crosses the Ngul-chu and then starts a series of 72 switchbacks up to Zar Gama-la ( 4618m), marking the highest single altitude gain of any motorable pass in Tibet.

After the pass a while, cross Pomda glorious grassy plain, arrives at Chamdo.

Day 9: Chamdo - Jampaling Monastery - Riwoche (105km, 5-6hours)

Chamdo is the major transport, administrative and trade centre of the Kham region. In the morning visit Jampaling Monastery on the hilltop, do pilgrimage circumambulation.

Then drive to Riwoche, cross over the Zholpel La pass (4688m).

Day 10: Riwoche - Riwoche Monastery - Tengchen (150KM,6-7hours)

Morning visit Riwoche Monastery Tsuglhakhang, then drive on a rough road to Dengchen.

Dengchen is the center of the Boen-Religion, which is a primitive religion based on ancient witchcraft and the worship to god and ghost, and spread through the whole Tibet before the Buddhism was introduced into Tibetan area. Visit Tengchen and Ritro Lhakhang.

Day 11: Tengchen - Sok (306km)Highlights: Tsuri La Pass, Shel La Pass

After master Tsuri La Pass (4,200m) and Shel La Pass (4750m) we get to Bachen, and continue about 30km you will reach Sok. Sok means Mongolia in Tibetan. 

Day 12: Sok - Nagchu (238km)Highlights: Sok Tsanden Gompa

Morning drive to Sok Tsanden Zhol village, visit Nyimpa sect monastery Sok Tsanden Gompa (sometimes it is impossible to visit this monastery).

After that cross over two passes and reach the city of Shakchuka. Then another 100km with two passes, you will reach Nagqu.

Day 13: Drive to Lake Namtso

Today, you'll visit Namtso Lake, one of the 'Three Holy Lakes in Tibet,' to admire the serene lake and the stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

Following breakfast, your journey will take you northward through the vast and expansive Damxung Grassland, a pastoral region bustling with herds of cattle and sheep and located closest to Lhasa.

During the journey, as you ascend the 5,190-meter-high Laken La Pass, a panoramic view of Namtso Lake will unfold, resembling an emerald jewel set amidst the northern Tibetan landscape. Descending from the pass, you'll reach Namtso Lake, covering an area of 1,920 square kilometers and considered one of Tibet's three sacred lakes.

Following your guide, you'll reach the lakeshore and trek to Tashi Dor Island for a closer panoramic view of the lake. Standing here, the vista mirrors an expansive blue ocean. Under the warm sun, cattle and sheep leisurely graze, while the Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains peacefully overlook the vast expanse of the northern Tibetan grasslands. Occasional passing trains stir the air, lending the pure plateau a radiant brilliance.

Subsequently, your guide will lead you on a lakeside hike to marvel at mystical stone columns, peaks, meditation caves, and Buddhist sacred sites. If you wish, linger at Namtso Lake, savor warm sweet tea at a lakeside teahouse, or witness the magnificent sunset.

Later, your guide will transfer you to spend the night at Damxung.

Day 14: Damxung - Chimelong Nunnery - Tsurphu Monastery - Lhasa

Today you will return to Lhasa from Damxung. After breakfast, you will first visit Chimelong Monastery, the largest nunnery near Lhasa, where you'll encounter a community of devoted female practitioners. Roam over the peaceful small nunnery and get an idea of different Buddhist studies in Tibet, you may also spot a sky burial site (Tibet funeral site) in the distance.

Then you will go to Tsurphu Monastery, the seat of the Karmapa branch of the Kagyupa order of Tibetan Buddhism. Situated in a beautiful valley, Tsurphu Monastery holds historical significance as the foundation site of Tibet's reincarnation system for living Buddhas. It's here that the first Karmapa, a revered figure in Tibetan history, was born. The monastery houses numerous precious artifacts, including the unique relics of the 16th Karmapa, a revered figure in Tibetan Buddhism.

In the summertime, local Tibetans gather for a ‘Linka outing’(Tibetan-style picnic) in the valley of Tsurphu Monastery. If time allows, you may join them for a a pleasant lunchtime, or dine at the monastery's restaurant.

After lunch, you will begin your return journey to Lhasa.

Warm Tips:
Sky burial is a funeral practice commonly seen in Tibet. The corpse will be disposed of and later devoured by vultures. In Tibetan Buddhism, sky burial is believed to represent their wishes to go to heaven. Only family members of the dead can attend the funeral.

Day 15: Finish This Unforgettable Tour and Depart from Lhasa

Today your guide will transfer you to the airport or train station and help you get on board. Please confirm your departure flight or train details in advance with your guide. The tour ends.

What’s Included?

1.Tibet travel documents such as Tibet Travel Permit (excluding expedited processing fees), and delivery of the permit to your hotel in mainland of China.

2. Comfortable, clean and safe tourist vehicles with experienced local drivers offering attentive service.

3. Accommodations depend on your preference. Please tell us your preferred accommodation class when submitting the enquiry, and we will arrange the best-value hotels for you.

4. All meals listed in the itinerary.

5. Excellent local Tibetan English-speaking tour guide.

6.Admission tickets for all tourist attractions listed in Itinerary.

7.Travel accident insurance.

8. Other services: exquisite Tibetan souvenirs, tourist map, portable oxygen, medical oxygen in the vehicle, bottled mineral water, and more.

What's Excluded?

1. Chinese Visa (for any visa assistance services, please contact us for details)

2. International flights to and out of China.

3. Domestic flight or train to and out of Lhasa (If you need ticket booking service, please leave your requirements in the Online Inquiry form.)

4.Some meals not included in the itinerary.

5.Tips to the guide and driver based on your satisfaction with their services. We recommend paying a total of $7 per person per day for both the guide and driver.

6.Additional expenses resulting from force majeure events (such as natural disasters, traffic controls, loss of valuables, visa delays, flight delays or cancellations, etc.).

7. Personal expenses and any other expenses not mentioned in the inclusion list.

Trip Notes

  • 1. How to Get the Tibet Travel Permit?

    The Tibet Travel Permit is essential for any Tibet tour. We help to obtain this permit free of charge when you book your Tibet tour through us. Simply send us copies of your passport and China visa at least 20 days in advance. Once we receive your documents, we will promptly process the permit application with the Tibet Tourism Bureau. After obtaining your permit, we will notify you and send it to your hotel in mainland China.

    In exceptional cases, our staff can personally deliver the permit to you at the airport or railway station. With years of experience in handling Tibet Travel Permit, we assure you a smooth visit to Tibet by ensuring the acquisition of your permit.

  • 2. Where to Stay in Tibet?

    Accommodation facilities and services in Tibet might not match those found in the coastal and central parts of China. However, there's a diverse range of hotel options available. However, you can choose from a wide range of hotel options. In big cities like Lhasa and Shigatse, from cheap and clean youth hostels to distinct Tibetan-style 3-star and international 5-star luxury hotels, you will find one that suits your interests and budget.

    As you travel to remote areas of Tibet, such as EBC and the Mount Kailash region, the accommodations tend to be more basic. Some may have air-conditioning in the hotel, while others may only offer electric blankets in the guesthouses. Nonetheless, we always handpick cozy and safe accommodations for you along your itinerary in Tibet, ensuring a pleasant night's stay for your Tibet tour.

  • 3. How about the Guiding and Tipping in Tibet?

    Our English-speaking guides are natives of Tibet with good knowledge of Tibetan culture, history, and Buddhism. Most are trained to offer Western-standard service. Throughout your stay in Tibet, we will monitor your health and provide prompt assistance to you. If you encounter any trouble, please do not hesitate to contact them or our customer service manager.

    Travelers' tipping to Tibetan guides and drivers is seen as extra gratitude for their excellent service, much like what you do in the West. Normally, a tipping amount of 7 USD per day is acceptable. The basic principle is rewarding good service with fair pay.

  • 4. How are the Toilets in Tibet?

    Undoubtedly, for many Western tourists, using toilets in Tibet can be a challenging experience. Therefore, it's advisable to moderate your expectations. If you travel to Lhasa by Tibet train, both western-style and squat toilets are available onboard. Staying in hotels rated above 3 stars in cities like Lhasa and Shigatse ensures access to standard Western flush toilets, eliminating any discomfort.

    However, when visiting attractions like Yamdrok or Namtso or outdoor sites like EBC, you're likely to encounter smelly and unclean pit toilets. It's recommended to carry sufficient toilet paper for such occasions.

  • 5. How is the Weather in Tibet? What to Pack for Visiting Tibet?

    One of the notable weather features on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is the significant temperature fluctuation between day and night. In Lhasa, the annual temperatures range from -2℃ to 12℃ (spring), 9℃ to 22℃ (summer), 7℃ to 19℃ (fall), and -7℃ to 9℃ (winter). Ensure proper clothing, such as thermal tops, a fleece jacket, breathable underwear, a down jacket, jeans, a beanie, and other essentials.

    Moreover, essentials like sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses are crucial to shield yourself from the intense, blinding sunlight of the plateau. Staying hydrated by drinking more water and including vegetables in your diet is advisable to prevent dehydration during your travels in Tibet.

  • 6. How to Prevent from Altitude Sickness in Tibet?

    For first-time visitors to Tibet, whether arriving by flight or train, allowing ample rest is crucial for quick acclimation to the high altitude in Lhasa. Avoid rushing to explore the streets or attractions independently. Walk at a slower pace and refrain from exerting yourself by running or jumping. Spending at least two days in Lhasa before venturing to places like Shigatse or Namtso allows for better acclimatization. If you experience any discomfort, inform your guide, and they will assist you.

  • 7. Are There some Dos and Don'ts while Touring Tibet?

    Photography is generally prohibited in monasteries. If you wish to capture images of Tibetan pilgrims, kindly seek their permission or maintain a considerable distance while taking photos. Swimming and fishing are prohibited in the sacred lakes of Tibet. Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics. According to policy, international tourists are not permitted to travel alone in Tibet.

    While navigating Barkhor Street, adhere to the custom of walking clockwise. Refrain from exploring unfamiliar trails. Take proactive steps to preserve Tibet's delicate ecosystem.

    Given that Tibetan Buddhism profoundly influences the lives of Tibetans, always show reverence and respect for their unique customs. If uncertain about any practice, it's advisable to seek guidance from your tour guide before proceeding.

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    Discover the real Tibet with us! We're dedicated to showing its true spirit and exploring its lively culture. Our aim is to give you an authentic experience, sharing the beauty and richness of Tibetan traditions. Come along for a journey deep into the heart of Tibet!

  • Leisurely explore Lake Yamdrok

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What Our Customers Say

  • Unforgettable Tibet experience

    When I decided that this was the right year for Tibet, I started doing some research and the obvious name that came up was Tibet Vista.I reached out and in a very short time I got a reply from Kristin.I had multiple email exchanges with her to organise all aspects of my trip and she always gave me timely and precise responses leaving me with the idea that I would get the kind of support and assistance I required even during the trip...More reviews

    Oct 2024 ECJUNE
  • A tour to remember

    I am super happy that I had the opportunity to go on this tour. For the first time in my life I got to see Mt Everest and explore Tibet, the views are just breath taking and beautiful. The team at Tibet Vista have done an amazing job organising our schedule with lots of activities where we get to learn about Tibetan culture and it’s history...More reviews

    Sep 2024 William F
  • Beautiful experience! Friendly service!

    It was very beautiful experience to visit Tibet and EBC. Since the first day we had really good service and our tour guide Kunchok always took care of us. Amazing location and interesting stories everyday all of us were to visit this places. Thanks again...More reviews

    Sep 2024 Lesya
  • A must do

    I did the hiking tour from Lhasa via Old Tingri to Base Camp with Lhakpa Tenzin. It is a moderate to strenous hike where diamox is a must. The staff has been wonderful and we were supported along the way. They will shift your evening/camping gear to the next camping spot and have a cook to give you meals as well!...More reviews

    Sep 2024 Anh Huynh
  • Wonderful Trip

    It was a wonderful trip for both of us. Special thanks to our tour guide Gelek and Driver Ngawang. Gelek shared lots of history and culture of Tibet, make sure we all good before heading to base camp. We really enjoyed the whole trip with them! Hope to visit this beautiful place soon!...More reviews

    Sep 2024 We J
  • Thanks Keldor!!!

    We had the best guide ever: thanks Keldor for the effort and for helping us throughout the tour! We could see Everest, Kailash and he also put extra effort to show us best spots and providing amazing pictures. I believe that guides make 90% of the journey and I am glad that we had the chance to visit Tibet with the best people! ...More reviews

    Aug 2024 Maria Elena S
  • Solo trip with Gonpo and Tsering.

    My 10 day solo trip with Gonpo(guide) and Tsering(driver) was wonderful. Gonpo was veru accommodating of my medical needs and went the extra mile when it came to showing me spots not on the itinerary, from walks through backstreets and maekets/bazaars...More reviews

    Aug 2024 UADM99
  • Wonderful experience of kailash Manasarovar tour

    Amazing experience touring Tibet starting from Lhasa visiting many monasteries. We did kailash parikrama and an extra day to get close to mount kailash as possible. Being in the presence of Kailash is an experience difficult to explain in words....More reviews

    Aug 2024 Alex Cai
  • Amazing Journey with Tibet Vista

    My friends and I participated in the Mount Kailash tour on July 2 this year. This trip went very smoothly, and I was very lucky to see the full view of Mount Everest and its unparalleled beauty in the setting sun for only one minute...More reviews

    Aug 2024 rajashekar a
  • The most amazing experience with Mr. Tenzin Lhasa!

    My trip to Mt. Kailas with Mr. Tenzin Lhasa as our guide was an unforgettable experience. Mr. Tenzin's Lhasa expertise and deep knowledge of the region greatly enriched our journey. His support throughout the trip was exceptional, ensuring that every aspect of our adventure was seamless and enjoyable...More reviews

    July 2024 Alena F

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