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15 Days Chengdu Lhasa Shigatse Overland Tour via G318 National Highway

Tour Route: Chengdu - Kangding - Xinduqiao Bridge - Litang - Markam - Zogang - Ranwu - Nyingchi - Lhasa - Shigatse - Lhasa

Trip Overview:

The G318 National Highway, renowned as China's most scenic route, is a captivating journey sought after by every adventurous traveler. Taking this 15-day overland tour via G318 Highway, you will start from Chengdu, and then traverse Zheduo Mountain, the idyllic Maoya Prairie, and the poetic landscapes of Daocheng Yading.

While in Nyingchi, wander through the enchanting forest, marvel at Mount Namcha Barwa, and behold the sacred Basum Lake. Then journey to Lhasa to explore the awe-inspiring Potala Palace and ancient Jokhang Temple. Before concluding, venture to Yamdrok Lake and Shigatse city.

Throughout this 15-day journey, you'll be guided into Tibet's mesmerizing realm. The landscapes along the way seem like a visual feast nature has laid out just for you. This marvelous adventure is destined to become a splendid memory etched in your life.

  • Tour Code: SG008A

  • Trip Level : Easy for All Agesi

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    Can I join this tour?

    • Though the Chengdu to Lhasa overland tour crosses several mountain passes over 4,000 meters in altitude, as long as you're in good health, you can confidently join our tour. However, to ensure your health and safety, we recommend consulting a professional doctor before your departure.
  • Tour Type: Small Group (Max 12) i

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    Our Small Group Tour Features

    • Guaranteed Departures: With our fixed tour dates, we guarantee every departure.
    • Flexible Scheduling: Should you not find a suitable travel date, worry not. Share your preferred timing, and we'll tailor a personalized itinerary, inviting fellow travelers to join.
    • Non-shopping Journey: Enjoy a commerce-free expedition with us. Our commitment to top-notch tours ensures an authentic and immersive exploration of Tibet.
  • Time to Visit : April to Octoberi

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    Time to Visit Guide:

    • The best times for Chengdu to Lhasa overland travel are April, May, September, and October, offering moderate weather and delightful scenery.
    • July and August mark the monsoon season, when landslides may occur on certain sections of the G318 Highway route.
    • Winter (November to March) along G318 Highway might experience travel disruptions due to snow, leading to slippery roads, making it less suitable for travel.

Highlights:

  • Drive from low Sichuan Basin to the Roof of the World via the world-class overland route.

  • Appreciate stunning mountains, gorges, snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers, villages, lakes, forests, flower seas along the G318 Highway.

  • Explore Tibetan tribal communities, understanding clothing culture of Khampas and U-Tsang people, witnessing their beautiful villages and folk houses.

  • Witness the architectural marvels in the mountainous canyons, like tunnels, bridges, and winding mountain roads that impress the world.

  • Tour grand monasteries in Lhasa and Shigatse, understanding Tibetan Buddhist culture and the lives of Tibetan monks.

  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple.

  • Exploring the largest monastery in Shigatse, the home of the Panchen Lama—Tashilhunpo Monastery.

Photos & Videos

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Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Chengdu (D)

Welcome to Chengdu!

Upon your arrival in Chengdu, our staff will greet you and escort you to your hotel in the city. If you have some free time, consider visiting the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to get up close with the adorable pandas. Alternatively, you can explore popular attractions such as Chunxi Road Pedestrian Street, Wide and Narrow Alley, Jin Li Ancient Street, etc.

In the evening, your guide will host a welcoming dinner at a carefully selected restaurant. During this time, the guide will introduce your travel companions and share important travel tips to ensure a pleasant and smooth journey.

Accmodation:

Overnight in Chengdu

Meal:

Welcoming dinner

Day 2: Chengdu - Mugecuo - Kangding (B)

Today, you will begin an exciting journey along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway! Departing from Chengdu, you'll head to Kangding, situated at an altitude of 2560 meters, enjoying the stunning landscapes from plains to plateaus.

After breakfast, begin the 300-kilometer road trip, a 3-hour journey that traverses through the Chengdu Plain, ultimately arriving at Kangding, located on the edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Surrounded by mountains and valleys, this city has historically thrived, serving as important town on Ancient Tea-Horse Road and the significant gateway for trade between Tibetan and Han Chinese merchants.

Upon arrival in Kangding, your guide will take you to the first stop of the journey - Mugecuo (Kangding Love Song Resort). The Mugecuo Scenic Area is characterized by highland lakes, pristine forests, hot springs, snow-capped peaks, unique rock formations, and the 8-kilometer-long Waterfall Canyon, crafting a splendid and colorful landscape.

After the visit, your guide will accompany you back to Kangding County.

Accmodation:

Overnight in Kangding

Meal:

Breakfast

Day 3: Kangding - Zheduo Mountain - Xinduqiao - Yajiang (B, D)

Today, you will cross the first high mountain on your journey to Tibet—the Zheduo Mountain, and pass through the picturesque photography haven of Xinduqiao.

In the morning, departing from Kangding County, you'll arrive at the first gateway to Kham, the Zheduo Mountain (4962 meters). Here, the scenery of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau unfolds before your eyes—Tibetan villages, grasslands, yaks, blue skies, white clouds, streams, and poplar trees—all breathtakingly beautiful.

After crossing Zheduo Mountain and continuing westward, you'll reach Xinduqiao (3460 meters). This tranquil village with its meandering streams, vibrant traditional Tibetan folk houses, fragrant alpine meadows, feels like a glimpse into an idyllic countryside, evoking a sense of being in a dreamy homeland. Xinduqiao is highly sought after by photographers, serving as a paradise for capturing serene rural landscapes. Especially in autumn, the alpine meadows and trees exhibit a rich spectrum of colors, turning Xinduqiao into a series of vivid paintings.

As night falls, you'll arrive at Yajiang County.

Accmodation:

Overnight in Yajiang

Meal:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 4: Yajiang - Litang - Daocheng - Shangri-La Town (B)

Today, you'll set off for what is acclaimed as the "Last Shangri-La on Earth" - Daocheng Yading.

After breakfast, your guide will lead you on a journey from Yajiang towards the town of Daocheng Yading. Along the way, you'll traverse the Kazila Mountain (4718 meters) and reach the world's highest city, Litang(4014 meters), also the hometown of the 7th Dalai Lama, Kelsang Gyatso.

In Litang County, you'll notice streetlights and portraits shaped like cranes scattered around. Arriving in Litang feels like being visited by cranes, bestowing blessings from the Buddha in the hometown of the 7th Dalai Lama.

After Litang, you'll arrive at Haizi Mountain(4500 meters). This location hosts the largest ancient glacial remains on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, consisting of 1145 lakes of varying sizes. At first glance, these lakes, big and small, appear like diamonds scattered by the hands of a careless deity across the plateau, prompting awe at nature's exquisite craftsmanship.

Subsequently, you'll journey through Chitu River Valley and tranquil Tibetan-style villages, finally reaching your destination for the day - Shangri-La Town.

Stay overnight in Shangri-La Town.

Accmodation:

Overnight in Shangri-La Town

Meal:

Breakfast

Day 5: Daocheng Yading Day Tour (B)

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Today, you'll immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of Daocheng Yading.

After breakfast, accompanied by a guide, you'll board the sightseeing bus to venture deep into the heart of Daocheng Yading - Chonggu Temple. Here, you'll gaze upon the 6032-meter-high Xiannairi Mountain. Below the snow-capped peaks, grasslands, forests, murmuring streams, colorful prayer flags, and mani stones form a dreamlike scene.

Later, aboard the scenic area's sightseeing bus again or optionally trekking for three hours, you'll reach Luorong Cattle Farm, encountering two other sacred mountains of Daocheng Yading - Xianuo Duoji Mountain (also known as Mt. Chenadorje) and Yangmaiyong Mountain.

Besides admiring these sacred mountains, your guide will lead you to two magnificent hidden lakes nestled in the forest of Daocheng Yading: Milk Lake and Five Color Lake.

Milk Lake is a high-altitude lake named for its milky-white water. Surrounded by verdant grasslands and distant snowy mountains, it creates a serene and mystical scene.

In contrast to Milk Lake, Five Color Lake displays a rich palette of colors - deep blue, light blue, green, red, and white - hence its name "Five Color Lake." When sunlight touches its surface, the lake appears like a massive gem, radiating captivating brilliance.

Stay overnight in Shangri-La Town.

Note:
For visits to Milk Lake and Five Color Lake, options include hiking or horseback riding at an additional cost.

Accmodation:

Overnight in Shangri-La Town

Meal:

Breakfast

Day 6: Shangri-La Town - Litang - Batang (B)

After enjoying the splendid scenery of Daocheng Yading, today you'll immerse yourself in the embrace of Maoya Prairie in Litang.

In the morning, you'll return from Daocheng Yading to Litang by car. During the return journey, you'll once again appreciate Haizi Mountain. Subsequently, you'll arrive at today's destination, Batang (2560 meters).

Upon reaching Batang, you'll head to Maoya Prairie. This vast grassland is surrounded by mountains, resembling an endless blue sea, adorned with tents emitting wisps of cooking smoke. Cattle and sheep leisurely roam across the lush grassland. If you're fortunate, you might catch sight of wild animals like antelopes, yellow ducks, and marmots. Here, you'll experience the vastness of the plateau and the vitality of life, immersing yourself in the beauty of nature.

Stay overnight in Batang.

Accmodation:

Overnight in Batang

Meal:

Breakfast

Day 7: Batang - Jinsha River Bridge - Markam - Dongda Mountain - Zogang (B)

Following a wide valley, you will move into Yarlung Tsangpo Canyon. The canyon and its surroundings form an earthly paradise, where you can see raging torrent, gushing waterfalls one after another. After that, heading to the lush Lulang Forest. Noted for Switzerland Scene of Tibet, Nyingchi Lulang Forest has typical alpine scenery depicting authentic rural scenery of snow-caped forest nature. Here, you can can visit the Zhaxigang Village, the iconic Tibetan village in Lulang, enjoy the local famous Lulang Stone Chicken and other local snacks.

Standing at the viewing platform of Lulang, You will enjoy the stunning panorama views of Mt. Namjagbarwa (7782m). We will have a short stay at the Sejila Mountain Pass (4728m), where you can view the colorful leaves on the mountain in autumn. After that, we will move westwards to Nyinchi, the biggest city in eastern Tibet.

Stay overnight in Nyingchi.

Accmodation:

Overnight in Zogang

Meal:

Breakfast

Day 8: Zogang - Bangda - Nu River 72 Turns - Baxoi - Ranwu Lake (B)

Today, get ready for an exhilarating, rapid descent challenge through one of the most spectacular and thrilling mountain roads—the Nu River 72 Turns.

After breakfast, you'll depart from Zogang, heading westward to reach another grassland wetland area—Bangda Grassland. Here, herds of cattle and sheep leisurely graze on the expansive grasslands, offering a picturesque pastoral scene.

Next, brace yourself for an exciting challenge: within just 12 kilometers, descend rapidly from the 4650-meter Yela Mountain Pass to the 2800-meter elevation at the banks of the Nu River. This stretch known as the "Nu River 72 Turns" is the most thrilling section along the G318 route. Standing atop the mountain, the winding road resembles a twisting dragon, with countless hairpin turns of 180 degrees before reaching the riverbank, seemingly endless as it stretches away.

Continuing westward, snow-capped mountains, forests, and Tibetan villages gradually come into view, guiding you through the pastoral landscapes of eastern Tibet.

Finally, you'll arrive at tonight's destination—the captivating Ranwu Lake, one of the most charming lakes in eastern Tibet, where you'll conclude today's journey.

Stay overnight by the lake.

Accmodation:

Overnight by Ranwu Lake

Meal:

Breakfast

Day 9: Ranwu - Midui Glacier - Bome (B)

Today, immerse yourself entirely in the poetic and picturesque landscapes of eastern Tibet, enjoying the snow-capped mountains along the lake shore, serene grasslands, and exploring the hidden glaciers within the forests of eastern Tibet.

In the morning, you'll visit Ranwu Lake (also known as Rakwa Tso), renowned as the most beautiful lake in eastern Tibet. The elongated blue waters and over 20 kilometers of shoreline gradually lead you through forests, snow-capped peaks, flower-filled meadows, serene Tibetan pastoral scenes, and villages. This place feels like a serene and peaceful haven amidst the bustle of city life.

Next, your guide will take you to another hidden gem in eastern Tibet—the Midui Glacier. Celebrated as China's most beautiful glacier, it's also the world's lowest-altitude glacier. Like an elusive elf in the mountains, the glacier flows down from an elevation of 6800 meters, reaching down to its tongue at about 2400 meters near the lake surface. Dense forests, the blue lake, and the pristine white glacier create a dreamlike, Edenic landscape.

Especially during deep autumn, the vibrant forest colors turn this secret haven into a fairy-tale world, utterly enchanting. If you wish, you can even choose to hike to the foot of the glacier, touching its colossal tongue.

Stay overnight in Bome.

Accmodation:

Overnight in Bome

Meal:

Breakfast

Day 10: Bome - Lulang Forest - Sejila Mountain (Namcha Barwa Peak) - Bayi Town (B)

Today, you'll venture into the lush forested areas of Tibet, navigating through vibrant green forests.

In the morning, you'll depart from Bome, continuing your journey eastward. The snow-capped mountains ahead become even more enchanting, and the forests denser. These snow peaks seem like diamonds embedded in the clear sky, an overwhelming sight. Below the snow-capped mountains lie vast forests, with wisps of white clouds floating between the mountains and forests.

Soon, you'll arrive at the secluded Guxiang Lake hidden within the forest, and ascend to the 4702-meter Sejila Mountain Pass, offering a distant view of the famous eastern Himalayan snow peak—the Namcha Barwa Peak. Towering into the sky, Namcha Barwa appears like a majestic spear, its snowy peak sparkling like diamonds against the blue sky.

Continuing, you'll reach the second viewpoint for admiring Namcha Barwa—the Lulang Forest Viewing Platform. Here, you'll once again witness the breathtaking sight of Namcha Barwa towering above the vast forest.

After experiencing the visual feast brought by the snow-capped mountains and forests, you'll arrive at the bustling Lulang International Tourism Town. Here, indulge in the local delicacies of Lulang Forest and stroll around the town, embracing its tranquil atmosphere.

In the evening, you'll reach the vibrant Bayi Town, the most prosperous town in eastern Tibet. Here, you'll have the chance to taste the renowned Stone Pot Chicken, a specialty of Nyingchi.

Stay overnight in Nyiching City (Bayi Town).

Accmodation:

Overnight in Bayi town

Meal:

Breakfast

Day 11: Nyingchi - Basum Lake - Lhasa (B)

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Today marks the final leg of your journey through eastern Tibet as you visit the stunning Basum Lake before continuing by car to the sacred city of Lhasa.

After breakfast, your guide will lead you to explore Basum Lake. Unlike other lakes in Tibet, Basum Lake holds sacred significance in the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Its central island resembles a tranquil water garden surrounded by azure waters, ancient trees shading temples—a unique sight distinct from other temples and landmarks along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway. Here, you'll visit the millennium-old Tsozong Gompa Temple on the island, experiencing its ancient and profound religious culture.

Next, you'll drive via the expressway linking Lhasa and Bayi toward the sacred city of Lhasa. Along the way, there's a segment crossing the Nyang River that might give you a surreal sensation of speeding over a blue ocean.

Spotting the majestic Potala Palace signifies the end of your adventurous journey through the Sichuan-Tibet Highway of over ten days. The sacred city of Lhasa welcomes your arrival!

Upon arrival, your guide and driver will escort you to your hotel for check-in, allowing you to rest and rejuvenate after this extensive journey.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Warm Tips:
On your first day in Lhasa, it's advisable to take it easy, allowing your body to acclimate slowly to the high altitude. Try to avoid bathing or washing your hair, add layers of clothing to prevent catching a cold, and conserve your energy for the upcoming travels.

Accmodation:

Overnight in Lhasa

Meal:

Breakfast

Day 12: Lhasa Day Tour: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street (B)

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.

Accmodation:

Overnight in Lhasa

Meal:

Breakfast

Day 13: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse (B)

After exploring Lhasa, you'll travel overland to Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest city. Along the way, immerse yourself in Tibet's splendid scenery and discover the leisurely lives of local villagers.

The first stop will be at Yamdrok Lake, one of the three holiest lakes in Tibet. This stunning lake unveils its beauty from the Gambala Mountain Pass (4790m), curving like a blue ribbon, while the towering Mt. Noijin Kangsang (7191m) can be seen in the distance. As you descend to the lakeshore, explore various viewpoints offering intimate encounters with the lake's shoreline. Towards the lake's end, you'll have the opportunity to visit a welcoming local family in the village and have lunch with them.

Next, you'll pass by the Karola Glacier (5100m). Positioned right by the roadside, it resembles a serene maiden grooming herself while gazing from afar at the majestic snow-capped mountains.

Continuing your journey towards Gyantse, you'll make a stop at Simila Mountain Pass. Here, you can hang prayer flags, offering prayers for global peace and the well-being of your loved ones.

Upon arrival in Gyantse, seize the opportunity to capture memorable photos of the ancient city. En route from Gyantse to Shigatse, you will witness vast stretches of lush green barley fields (in summer) and golden fields (in autumn), alongside numerous farms.

Finally, upon reaching Shigatse and checking into the hotel, take a moment to relax and prepare for the upcoming trip to Mount Everest the following day.

Stay overnight in Shigatse.

Accmodation:

Overnight in Shigatse

Meal:

Breakfast | Lunch

Day 14: Shigatse - Nyemo - Lhasa (B)

In the morning, you will explore the residence of the Panchen Lama, Tashilhunpo Monastery, which is also the largest monastery in Shigatse. This expansive monastery occupies the hillside, housing the world's largest statue of Maitreya Buddha, serving as the spiritual heart of Shigatse. You can see monks, wearing yellow hats and red robes, walking through the temple. If you are lucky, you will also see a Dharma ceremony held in the temple.

Then, you will journey back to Lhasa along the Yarlung Tsangpo River, revered as the Mother River of Tibetans.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Accmodation:

Overnight in Lhasa

Meal:

Breakfast

Day 15: Finish This Unforgettable Tour and Depart from Lhasa (B)

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.

Meal:

Breakfast

Tour Departures in 2024

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Price 2470 US$ 2470 US$ 2470 US$ 2770 US$ 2770 US$ 2770 US$ 2470 US$ 2470 US$
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Please Note:

If you couldn’t find a tour date suitable for your travel schedule in the above form, please contact our travel experts and they will help you plan a delightful vacation to Tibet at the BEST local price.

Discount:

1.) 5% off for those booking the tour together with other two travelers (3 or 3 above in total) at the same time;

2.) 5% off for those booking the tour 3 months in advance;

3.) Please kindly be aware that the two discounts mentioned above cannot be enjoyed simultaneously.

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. Standard tourist vehicles based on the number of group members, ensuring one seat one person. Experienced local drivers offer attentive service.

3. Star hotels throughout the itinerary (upgrades available for an additional fee; single room supplement required when not sharing).

4. Breakfasts and featured meals listed in the itinerary. (Meal fees are non-refundable if declined due to personal reasons).

5. Excellent local Tibetan English-speaking tour guide (Prices for guides speaking other languages may be subject to separate negotiation).

6. Admission tickets for all tourist attractions listed in Itinerary, fee for environmentally-friendly sightseeing bus.

7. Travel accident insurance.

8. Free shuttle service from the airport/train station to the hotel.

9. 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 Chengdu; Flight or train out of Lhasa. (If you need ticket booking service, please leave your requirements in the Online Inquiry form.)

4. Single Room Supplement: Hotels are based on double occupancy (twin-bedded rooms) by default. If you prefer a single room or if room sharing isn’t possible, a single room supplement is required (please consult the travel consultant for specific price differences).

5. Special activities like horse riding in the Daocheng Yading Scenic Area.

6. Some meals not included in the itinerary.

7. 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.

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

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

Chengdu to Lhasa G318 Highway Overland Trip Notes

  • 1. When is the deadline to book this 15-day Chengdu Lhasa Overland Small Group Tour?

    To ensure a seamless trip, it is recommended to book your Tibet tour at least 15-20 days before the departure date.

    Certainly, booking your tour 1-2 months or earlier in advance will assist us in arranging your Tibet Travel Permit and other necessary documents, as well as securing accommodations. Additionally, early bookings may qualify for early-bird discounts. This arrangement facilitates better preparation and a more relaxed journey.

  • 2. What travel documents are required for a Chengdu Lhasa Overland Tour?

    For taking this trip to Tibet, various tourists require specific travel documents:

    1) Foreign tourists: Passport, Chinese Visa, Tibet Travel Permit
    2) Tourists from Hong Kong and Macau: Home Return Permit
    3) Tourists from Taiwan: Mainland Travel Permit (MTP), Tibet Travel Permit, etc.

  • 3. How to apply for the Tibet Travel Permit? How long does It take, and when can I get the permit?

    For foreign tourists applying for the Tibet Travel Permit, photos or photocopies of a valid passport and Chinese Visa are needed. Holders of a working visa need to additionally provide a work certificate, while student visa holders require student certification.

    However, Taiwanese tourists only need to provide photos or photocopies of Mainland Travel Permit for the Tibet Travel Permit application.

    Generally, processing the Tibet Travel Permit takes 7-14 working days. Once the permit is successfully issued, we'll mail it to your address in mainland of China 3-5 days before your departure date, ensuring you have it in hand for entry to Tibet.

  • 4. What are the altitudes along G318 Highway? How can I prevent altitude sickness?

    The G318 Highway is a road that connects Sichuan and Tibet, traversing the Hengduan Mountains. The terrain is complex and diverse, with significant changes in altitude along the route, crossing several high mountains with altitudes exceeding 4,000 meters.

    Here are the altitudes of the main attractions along the route from Chengdu to Lhasa:

    AttractionsAltitude
    Chengdu 500 meters
    Kangding 2560 meters
    Zheduo Mountain 4962 meters
    Xinduqiao 3460 meters
    Litang 4014 meters
    Haizi Mountain 4500 meters
    Daocheng Yading 3764 meters
    Batang 2500 meters
    Lawu Mountain 4358 meters
    Dongda Mountain 5086 meters
    Zogang 3750 meters
    Ranwu Lake 3850 meters
    Bome 2720 meters
    Sejila Mountain 4702 meters
    Bayi Town 2994 meters
    Lhasa 3658 meters
    Yamdrok Lake 4441 meters
    Shigatse 3850 meters

    To prevent altitude sickness, it's crucial to plan your itinerary sensibly and allocate enough rest time. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and overexertion. Maintaining a positive and optimistic mindset is a remedy for preventing altitude sickness. Additionally, consider consulting a doctor to obtain some medication for altitude sickness, just in case.

    If severe altitude sickness symptoms arise during the journey such as intense headaches or difficulty breathing, promptly seek oxygen, inform your guide, and seek medical attention with their assistance.

  • 5. When is the best time to take a Chengdu to Lhasa Overland Tour?

    The best time to travel from Chengdu to Lhasa via G318 Highway is during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is relatively stable, pleasant, and the scenery is delightful.

    In spring, the ice and snow along the highway melt, vegetation regenerates, and flowers bloom in the mountains. In autumn, the weather is sunny, the sky is clear blue, offering great visibility of the mountains, making it an ideal time for viewing autumn foliage and snow-capped peaks. Most sections of the G318 Highway are accessible and convenient for travel during these periods.

    However, summer (July to August) is the rainy season along the this highway, leading to potential natural disasters like mudslides in some areas. Winter (November to March of the following year) might not be suitable for travel due to road closures caused by snow blocking the roads.

  • 6. How long is the G318 Highway from Chengdu to Lhasa? How is the road condition?

    The G318 Highway spans a total length of 2159 kilometers, linking Chengdu in Sichuan to Lhasa in Tibet. It's one of China's renowned highways. The route traverses the Hengduan Mountains and the Himalayas, passing through various terrains such as plains, hills, and high mountains, making the road conditions complex.

    Although there have been improvements in road conditions in recent years, some sections might still be affected by natural factors like weather, rainfall, or mudslides, resulting in less favorable road conditions. We recommend contacting us before your trip to obtain the latest information about the current road conditions along the G318 Highway.

  • 7. How about the accommodation along the G318 Highway?

    Although the G318 Highway is a well-established tourist route, towns along the way are scarce, and accommodation options are limited. Cities like Chengdu and Lhasa offer a wide variety of lodging choices. However, in smaller towns like Xinduqiao and Litang, accommodations mainly consist of guest houses or small inns, providing comfortable and clean lodging environments.

  • 8. What to pack for traveling from Chengdu to Lhasa via G318 Highway?

    1) Cold-weather clothing: Due to significant temperature differences in the highlands, bring items like down jackets, windbreakers, thermal underwear, and accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves for warmth.

    2) Personal care items: Skincare essentials such as facial cleansers, moisturizers, lotions, hydrating masks, lip balm, sunscreen, and a U-shaped pillow for comfortable travel during long car rides. Additionally, bring a thermal flask for access to hot water at any time.

    3) Medications: Carry essentials like adhesive bandages, motion sickness medication, cold and flu medicine, digestive aids, anti-inflammatory drugs, eye drops, and altitude sickness medication for emergency needs. (Use medication as directed by a healthcare professional and avoid unnecessary usage.)

    4) Electronics: Depending on personal preference, bring devices like smartphones, cameras, headphones, chargers, power banks, and charging cables.

    5) Cash and bank cards: While mobile payment methods are increasingly common, some remote areas along the G318 Highway may still require cash. It's advisable to carry a small amount of cash and at least one bank card.

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  • Our small group at Jokhang Temple

    Pioneers in Small Group Tours with Varied Itineraries

    We're the top Tibetan tour operator, focusing on small group tours—our specialty! Our trips offer classic experiences with lots of choices and often leave at great prices. No shopping pressure, just budget-friendly fun! Our groups stay small, maxing out at 12 people, and we get over 5,000 clients every year.

  • Guaranteed service by us

    Guaranteed Tibet Permit and Complimentary Service

    With 30+ years of experience, we provide you with a free Tibet Permit! Count on us to handle all your travel needs smoothly, ensuring your trip to explore stunning Tibet is stress-free. Your permit is our promise for an amazing adventure in the Himalayas!

  • Local Tibetan restaurant

    Supporting Local Communities through Tibetan-Owned Businesses

    We only pick Tibetan-owned restaurants and hotels to help our community. Your trip with us directly helps the Tibetan community by supporting local businesses. Come embrace real Tibet and make a positive impact while exploring with us!

  • Explore Mount Kailash

    Authentic Exploration of Tibet's Rich Culture

    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

    Unhurried Exploration of Every Destination

    We never hurry on our tours, so you can enjoy every spot fully. We promise a relaxed pace, letting you take in each place on our list. Journey with us for a truly satisfying experience!

  • Photo with Mount Everest

    24/7 Support & Daily Communication with Guide

    Feel safe with our 24/7 local support! Your safety and comfort matter most to us. We talk to our guides every day to keep your trip smooth. Count on us for ongoing help, making your journey hassle-free and fun. Relax knowing we're here for you throughout your adventure!

  • Pleasant trip in Tibet

    Constant Optimization for Superior Travel Experiences

    Join us for amazing travel adventures! We keep making our trips better every year, improving quality wherever we go. We're dedicated to giving you the best service possible. Come with us on unforgettable journeys where every detail shows how much we care about making you happy!

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What Our Customers Say

  • Once in a life time

    14 days from Beijing to Tibet and Nepal. The reality was beyond my expectations. A trip that I will remember for the rest of my life. The trip was arranged in an exceptional way! Laura Tang did an amazing job! She responded to all my questions immediately, she supported and solved any problems very quickly. The hotels she arranged for me were amazing!! ...More

    Jan 2023 nico k
  • Nice view in winter!

    The view was magnificent. got to see snow and snow capped mountains. Thanks to Gemma Wei for helping with all the planning. Also thanks to Kunchok and Tsering for going accomodating to my needs as i was not used to the altitude. They also helped alot with the trek up the hills! ...More

    Dec 2023 Benjamin X
  • Tibet is beautiful

    The tour was great! We visited amazing places and could feel the sacred atmosphere in all the temples. The nature is breathtaking with beautiful mountain and lake views. Our guide Jingme told us all about the history and showed us great places. All the hotels were much better than what I expected...More

    Nov 2023 Krisyna H
  • Unforgettable Experience

    The 8-day trip with Tibet Vista was remarkable, combining cultural depth with stunning Tibetan landscapes. Our guide Jig Me was really knowledgable, the journey well-organized, and each destination, especially Everest Base Camp, was a highlight. Great value; highly recommended...More

    Nov 2023 George J
  • FANTASTIC!

    Visiting Tibet with Tibet Visa agency is a once in a life time experience! They take care of everything and you just need to enjoy! Our tour guide was AMAZING...More

    Nov 2023 Alberto
  • Exploring Tibetan culture

    Tibet vista made the entry process into Tibet super easy. Jing mei our guide had a wealth of knowledge about all the locations we visited and happily answered questions we had. Also organising a birthday cake for one of the guests showed how thoughtful he was...More

    Nov 2023 Dylan P
  • Lhasa to Kathmandu

    Can't recommend this company enough. We did it very last minute and got our Chinese visas a few days before we flew to Chengdu and got the train to Lhasa. Lycoris our contact was patient and reassuring over the applications. The trip itself was something else...More

    Nov 2023 philgiles
  • Private tour with guide and driver… wow!

    After much research, my wife gave the desired itinerary to the agency rep that she was working with. It covered a huge area from Lhasa all the way West to the Ali area and back along a Northern route. Of course having a private driver and Land Cruiser along with a very experienced guide, the trip was just fantastic... More

    Oct 2023 howardxp1
  • Best trip I have ever had

    I just arrived home this morning after a one-month trip in India, Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan. I have travelled a lot in my life but this trip is the best trip I have ever had. It really stands out by its geographic particularity, historical and cultural knowledge and most of all, its emotional/spiritual impact...More

    Sep 2023 hptranle
  • Unforgetable Tibet

    The trip was great, the view was amazing. Our tour guide, Gijme, is very professional and very knowledgeable about the sites and the history...More

    Sep 2023 Deby Wahyuning H

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