Tibet Cultural Tour-Lhasa-Shigatse-Yangpachen-Namtso Tour Details
Tibet Cultural Tour Lhasa-Shigatse-Yangpachen-Namtso begins in the holy city of Lhasa, where you will have the chance to visit significant historical and religious sites such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery, and Drepung Monastery.
Upon your arrival in the holy city, you will be greeted by the beautiful blue sky and an impressive view of the magnificent Potala Palace situated on the red hill. During the first couple of days, we will provide you with time to adjust to the altitude and overcome any jet lag. You will be truly amazed as you explore the mystical Potala Palace, the sacred Jokhang Temple, the expansive Drepung and Sera Monasteries, and the vibrant Bakhor Street, where devoted pilgrims from all over Tibet come together.
In addition to visiting these religious sites, our well-planned itinerary will take you to Gyantse and Shigatse, providing you with an opportunity to experience the unique Tibetan culture in western Tibet (Tsang). As you drive along the stunning turquoise Yamdrok Lake and witness the breathtaking Nyenchen Kangsar glacier under the sunny plateau climate, each moment will be filled with new discoveries and wonders. Following this, we will venture into the Changthang, a rarely traveled region of the northern nomadic plain. We will cross the Shogula Pass to reach Yangpache, and then conclude with a short Namtso Tour.
The highlight of the Tibet Culture Tour is the opportunity it presents to experience both city life in Tibet and the lives of remote villages. From visiting farming families in Nimo to exploring the culture of northern nomad families, you will have a chance to immerse yourself in the rich cultural experiences that Tibet has to offer.
We hope you find this tour to be a delightful and enriching experience, combining the wonders of Tibet’s cities with the charm of its remote villages.
Tour Itinerary Tibet Cultural Tour Lhasa-Shigatse-Yangpachen-Namtso
DAY 01 – 03
Upon your arrival at the airport/train station, our representatives will warmly greet you. It will be a short drive to the holy city of Lhasa, along the Lhasa River, surrounded by barren mountains. Even before reaching the city, you will catch a glimpse of the magnificent Potala Palace, perched on the red hill, standing out from the rest of the city. Once you arrive, you will check in at a hotel located in the old part of town, known as the Tibetan area. This area is centered around the mystical Jokhang Temple and the bustling Bakhor Street.
Over the next couple of days, we have carefully planned visits to several world heritage sites and important Tibetan Buddhist locations. These visits will be interspersed with time for acclimation and adjusting to any jet lag. You will have ample opportunity to walk alongside devoted local pilgrims in the lively Bakhor Street. Exploring the vibrant cobbled lanes surrounding the ancient buildings of the awe-inspiring Drepung and Sera Monasteries will be a true pleasure. Our knowledgeable guides will provide you with in-depth explanations of the historical and cultural significance of these places. These days are flexible, allowing you to explore the town and spend leisure time strolling around Bakhor Street. Additionally, we can arrange special experiences such as short visits to typical Tibetan village families or rare sacred blessings from high lamas, based on your interests.
DAY 04 – 05
After a few days of acclimation, you will embark on a daring drive over the Gampa La Pass and Karo La Pass to reach Gyantse and Shigatse in the western Tibetan plateau. Driving along the Brahmaputra River, we will ascend the Gampa La Pass (4900m) through a series of switchbacks. From the pass, you will be amazed by the breathtaking view of the sacred Yamdrok Lake and the snow-capped Mt. Nyenchen Kangsar in the background. Continuing on, we will reach Gyantse and Shigatse, passing through picturesque glaciers and scattered villages. Both Gyantse and Shigatse are renowned for their historical and religious significance, and they offer slightly different cultural traditions compared to Lhasa and its surroundings.
DAY 06-07
Driving through peaceful villages and farmlands in the Oyuk Valley, we will traverse the high peak of the Shogula Pass (5400m) to reach Yangpachen and the northern nomadic grasslands. This remote and lesser-known region, known as Jiangthang Drogpa in Tibetan, is sparsely populated by nomads who reside in vast pastures. The region is home to hundreds of beautiful lakes teeming with wildlife, including the awe-inspiring Namtso Lake, one of the holiest and most stunning lakes in Tibet. Namtso Lake is also the highest saltwater lake in the world. We will spend a night on the Tashi Do Peninsula, enjoying the cool breeze from the mystical lake and the breathtaking view of snow-capped mountain ranges. The next day, we will drive back to Lhasa, completing a clockwise circumambulation. On this day, we will visit a nomad family’s tent along the way. These giant black tents, made of yak wool, are well-adapted to the ever-changing plateau climate. Each tent serves as a complete living complex, including a kitchen, bedroom, seating area, and storeroom for the family. Spending a few minutes with the nomad family will provide you with a unique experience of the nomadic lifestyle on the plateau. You may notice piles of yak dung outside the tents, which serve as the primary fuel for cooking and heating during the chilly winter season.
DAY 08
Today marks your last day on the Tibetan plateau. We would greatly appreciate it if you could spare a few minutes to evaluate our services, as your feedback will help us improve in the future. You can either leave the feedback form with your guide or send us an email. Upon your departure, your guide and driver will meet you at the hotel lobby and transfer you to the airport/train station according to your schedule. At this point, the trip officially concludes.
Tour Services of Tibet Cultural Tour Lhasa-Shigatse-Yangpachen-Namtso
Included
- All necessary Tibet travel permits.
- Entrance ticket for all the attractions listed in the itinerary.
- Entrance for your Vehicle and guide for the Everest Natural Reserve.
- Private transportation in Tibet with experienced local Tibetan driver: Ranging from Business van to minibus depending on the group size.
- English speaking Proffesional Tour guide (Local Tibetan).
- Lodging in three star rating hotels: Hotel rooms are based on double occupancy ( with Breakfast).
- Free shuttle Pick-up and send-off services at the beginning/end of the tour.
- A mobile with local SIM card during the tour with your tour guide (it can receive international calls and text messages).
- An Oxygen tank and First Aid box in Car (Size of Oxygen Tank base on group member).
- Two water bottle each day/person.
- Lodging and meals for guide and drivers.
Excluded
- Travel insurance which covers tour cancellation and emergency evacuation (highly recommended to buy from your home country).
- Chinese Visa or Tibet Group Visa ( If coming from Nepal).
- International and domestic flight/train tickets.
- Lunches and Dinners averagely a meal in Tibet (Around USD5 per person).
- Gratuities (Tips) for the guide and driver. ( Highly recommend to give at end of tour).
Tour Map
Conclusion of Tibet Cultural Tour Lhasa-Shigatse-Yangpachen-Namtso
In conclusion, our Tibet Cultural Tour offers a remarkable journey filled with historical, religious, and cultural wonders. From the moment you arrive in the holy city of Lhasa, you are greeted by the majestic Potala Palace and immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of the Tibetan area surrounding the Jokhang Temple and Bakhor Street.
Throughout the tour, we have thoughtfully arranged visits to significant sites, allowing for acclimation and the alleviation of jet lag. You will have the opportunity to explore the bustling Bakhor Street alongside devoted local pilgrims and delve into the rich history and spirituality of the Drepung and Sera Monasteries.
The itinerary also takes you beyond Lhasa, allowing you to experience the unique Tibetan culture in Gyantse and Shigatse. The breathtaking views of Yamdrok Lake and the snow-capped Mt. Nyenchen Kangsar will leave you in awe as you traverse the Gampa La Pass. These regions hold their own distinct traditions and offer a deeper understanding of Tibetan heritage.
Continuing our journey, we venture into the remote northern nomadic grasslands and visit the mesmerizing Namtso Lake. This lesser-known region provides an opportunity to connect with the nomadic lifestyle and witness the untouched beauty of the Tibetan plateau.
As your time in Tibet comes to an end, we value your feedback to help us improve our services. Our guides and drivers will ensure your smooth departure, leaving you with lasting memories of this extraordinary cultural tour.
We extend our sincere gratitude for choosing our tour, and we hope it has been a rewarding and fulfilling experience for you. Should you have any further inquiries or future travel plans, please do not hesitate to reach out. It has been our pleasure to introduce you to the wonders of Tibet.
FAQs of Tibet Cultural Tour Lhasa-Shigatse-Yangpachen-Namtso
Q: Is altitude sickness a concern during the tour?
A: We understand the potential challenges of altitude sickness. That is why we have incorporated acclimation and rest days in Lhasa at the beginning of the tour. This allows you to gradually adjust to the high altitude and alleviate any symptoms of altitude sickness.
Q: What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
A: We provide comfortable and well-located hotels throughout the tour. In Lhasa, you will stay in a hotel situated in the old part of town, offering easy access to the Jokhang Temple and Bakhor Street. In other locations, we select accommodations that meet our quality standards while ensuring you have a pleasant and relaxing stay.
Q: Will there be opportunities to interact with the local people?
A: Yes, the tour offers various opportunities to interact with the local people. You can walk alongside devoted local pilgrims in Bakhor Street and visit typical Tibetan village families to experience their lifestyle. Additionally, if you are interested, we can arrange for you to receive rare sacred blessings from high lamas, providing you with a deeper understanding of Tibetan traditions.
Q: How can I provide feedback about the tour?
A: We greatly value your feedback. You can either leave the feedback form with your guide or send us an email with your thoughts and suggestions. Your feedback helps us enhance our services for future travelers.
Q: How do I make arrangements for my departure from Tibet?
A: On the last day of the tour, your guide and driver will meet you at the hotel lobby and transfer you to the airport or train station according to your schedule. They will ensure a smooth departure, making sure you reach your next destination in a timely manner.
Q: Can I extend my stay in Tibet after the tour?
A: Yes, you can extend your stay in Tibet if you wish. Please inform us in advance, and we will assist you in making the necessary arrangements to ensure a seamless transition and continuation of your journey in Tibet.
Q: Is altitude sickness a concern during the tour?
A: We understand the potential challenges of altitude sickness. That is why we have incorporated acclimation and rest days in Lhasa at the beginning of the tour. This allows you to gradually adjust to the high altitude and alleviate any symptoms of altitude sickness.
Q: What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
A: We provide comfortable and well-located hotels throughout the tour. In Lhasa, you will stay in a hotel situated in the old part of town, offering easy access to the Jokhang Temple and Bakhor Street. In other locations, we select accommodations that meet our quality standards while ensuring you have a pleasant and relaxing stay.
Q: Will there be opportunities to interact with the local people?
A: Yes, the tour offers various opportunities to interact with the local people. You can walk alongside devoted local pilgrims in Bakhor Street and visit typical Tibetan village families to experience their lifestyle. Additionally, if you are interested, we can arrange for you to receive rare sacred blessings from high lamas, providing you with a deeper understanding of Tibetan traditions.
Q: How can I provide feedback about the tour?
A: We greatly value your feedback. You can either leave the feedback form with your guide or send us an email with your thoughts and suggestions. Your feedback helps us enhance our services for future travelers.
Q: How do I make arrangements for my departure from Tibet?
A: On the last day of the tour, your guide and driver will meet you at the hotel lobby and transfer you to the airport or train station according to your schedule. They will ensure a smooth departure, making sure you reach your next destination in a timely manner.
Q: Can I extend my stay in Tibet after the tour?
A: Yes, you can extend your stay in Tibet if you wish. Please inform us in advance, and we will assist you in making the necessary arrangements to ensure a seamless transition and continuation of your journey in Tibet.
Q: Are there any additional costs or fees that I should be aware of?
A: The tour package generally includes all the costs and fees for the specified activities and accommodations as outlined in the itinerary. However, personal expenses, such as meals, souvenirs, and optional activities outside the itinerary, are not included and should be budgeted accordingly.
Q: Is the tour suitable for all age groups?
A: The tour is designed to accommodate various age groups. However, due to the high altitude and physical activities involved, individuals with certain health conditions or physical limitations should consult with their healthcare provider before undertaking the tour. We prioritize the safety and well-being of all our travelers.
Q: Is the tour suitable for all age groups?
A: The tour is designed to accommodate various age groups. However, due to the high altitude and physical activities involved, individuals with certain health conditions or physical limitations should consult with their healthcare provider before undertaking the tour. We prioritize the safety and well-being of all our travelers.
