Shangri La to Lhasa Overland Tour

Attractions: Yangtze River, Majestic view of Mt. Karwa Karpo

Today, we embark on a scenic drive along the Jinsha Jiang River, also known as the Yangtze River. The road winds through fertile valleys, and we make a stop at Feilaisi, the viewpoint for Mt. Karwa Karpo. With an impressive altitude of 6,740m, this majestic peak holds great significance in Tibetan Buddhism. It is considered one of the holiest mountains, drawing hundreds of pilgrims who circumambulate it each year. Continuing on, we reach our destination for the day, Dechen, where you can also enjoy views of the sacred Mt. Karwa Karpo. Overnight stay in Dechen.

Attractions: Barren sandstones and Mekong River

Our journey today takes us across high passes, including the Dungala Pass (5,008m), offering breathtaking views of Mt. Dungri Karpo (6,090m) to the south. We then cross the Joba la pass (3,908m) and descend through a barren sandstone landscape until we reach the Druk Bridge, spanning the mighty Mekong River. As we gradually ascend on the east bank, we enter the alpine meadows of Markham and meet the southern Sichuan-Tibet highway. Overnight stay in Markham.

Attractions: Charming Tibetan villages, breathtaking mountain vistas, and the Mekong River

Today, we cross the highest point of our entire journey, the Dongdo-la pass, standing at an altitude of 5,108m. Following the road along the Yachu River, a tributary of the Salween River, we reach Pamda, where a spur road leads to Chamdo. Continuing on, the unpaved road takes us over the Nujiang Mountain (4,658m), descending through a valley with 72 bends, which can be challenging but rewarding. Along the way, we pass through numerous villages nestled by the stream until we reach the small town of Basho, an ideal place to spend the night. Overnight stay in Basho.

Attractions: Verdant valleys, snow-capped mountains, Ranwu Lake

Our route today leads us to Pomi, passing through the picturesque Ranwu Lake. As we descend in altitude, the climate transitions from dry to moist, resulting in thicker forests along the road. Upon reaching Ranwu, we pause to admire the breathtaking lake, capturing stunning shots with the snow-capped mountains reflecting in its waters. We then continue driving along the lake for a few kilometers before heading further to Pomi. Overnight stay in Pomi.

Today, we embark on a picturesque drive through the green valleys of Tibet. As we traverse the Parlung River and Rongchu River, snow-capped mountains emerge in the distance, creating a stunning backdrop against the forested mountains and vibrant wildflowers. This region is often referred to as the “Tibetan Switzerland” due to its alpine beauty. Along the way, we will cross the Yigong Tsangpo on a photogenic suspension bridge and continue towards Rongchu Valley. The virgin forests and unique subtropical climate of this area make it a remarkable part of the Tibetan plateau. We will then ascend through switchbacks, offering breathtaking views of the Rongchu Valley, Mt. Namcha Barwa, and Mt. Gyala Palri in the background, from the Serkym la scenic spot. From there, it’s only a short drive of about 60km to reach Nyintri town, where we will spend the night. Overnight in Nyintri.

Our journey today takes us along the Nyanchu River, where we will pass through charming villages nestled within green valleys. As we drive, we will have the opportunity to visit the beautiful Basum Lake, which is a 50km detour from the main road. Apart from its sheer beauty, Basum Lake holds cultural and historical significance, with connections to the semi-mythical King Gesar and Guru Rinpoche. The surrounding snow-capped peaks and the Nyinmapa monastery on an island in the lake add to the allure of this area. Afterward, we will continue our drive westward, crossing over the Mila Pass at an altitude of 5000m. Here, the landscape transitions to the characteristic dry plateau climate, with bare mountains dominating the central and western parts of Tibet. Along the Lhasa River, we catch a glimpse of the iconic Potala Palace perched above the city before finally arriving in Lhasa, where we will spend the night. Overnight in Lhasa.

Today, we will embark on a guided tour of Lhasa, beginning with a visit to the revered Jokhang Temple. Located in the heart of the old city, this temple is a significant pilgrimage site for devoted locals and has a bustling atmosphere. After exploring the temple, you will have time to stroll along Bakhor Street, which serves as a devotional circuit and a vibrant central market. While it was once a famous local market, it has now transformed into a bustling tourist shopping center. In the afternoon, we will visit the Sera Monastery, founded in the 15th century by the disciple of Tsongkhapa. Sera Monastery is known for its monastic colleges and hosts several hundred monks from different parts of Tibet. Witnessing the famous Buddhist philosophical debates among the monks is a highlight of the visit. Spend the rest of the day acclimatizing and alleviating jet lag. Overnight in Lhasa.

Today, we will explore two iconic sites in Lhasa. The first stop is the majestic Potala Palace, which stands as a symbol of Tibet. Built in the 7th century and later expanded by the 5th Dalai Lama in the 17th century, this architectural masterpiece served as the residence of the Dalai Lama and his government. While the climb up the long steps can be challenging, the spiritual and historical significance of the palace makes it a worthwhile experience. In the afternoon, we will visit the Drepung Monastery, once the world’s largest monastery and the previous residence of the Dalai Lama before the Potala Palace. Despite experiencing several periods of destruction, the monastery still offers fascinating insights as you navigate through its narrow and winding lanes. Spend the rest of the day acclimatizing and alleviating jet lag. Overnight in Lhasa.

Today, we venture to the northwest of Lhasa along the Qinghai-Tibet Highway. Following the Tibet train track until Damshong, we continue our journey westward, crossing the Lagen La Pass. As we drive through the vast grasslands of the northern nomads’ land known as Jiangthang, we’ll be greeted with stunning views of Namtso Lake from the ridge of Lagen La (5190m). The road winds through nomadic grasslands where you can catch glimpses of black tents and nomad families during the summer season. Our destination is Tashi Peninsula, where you’ll have ample time to explore the peninsula and its surroundings. Namtso Lake, one of Tibet’s three most sacred lakes, stretches over 70km in length and 30km in breadth. It is the world’s highest saltwater lake and the second largest in China. On our return journey to Lhasa, we will visit a nomad family, allowing you to experience their yak wool tent firsthand and gain insight into their unique lifestyle. Overnight in Lhasa.

Today, our guide and driver will accompany you to the airport or train station, bidding you farewell as you depart for your next destination. We officially conclude the trip here.