Tibet Kharta Valley Trek

Today, we will embark on an escorted tour of Lhasa. In the morning, our guide will meet you at the hotel and take you to visit Jokhang Temple in the center of the Old Lhasa city. Jokhang Temple is the most sacred temple in Tibet and is always bustling with devoted local pilgrims. After exploring the temple, you will have time to walk around Bakhor Street, a vibrant market in Lhasa. In the afternoon, we will visit the famous Potala Palace, a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture and the cardinal landmark of Tibet. It has a rich history and was once the residence of the Dalai Lama and his government. Rest of the day is for acclimatization and relaxation. Overnight in Lhasa.

Today, we will visit Drepung Monastery in the morning. It was once the world’s largest monastery, housing over 10,000 monks. Although it has suffered destruction over time, there is still much to see. Walking through the narrow lanes and monks’ apartments gives a glimpse of a typical village. In the afternoon, we will visit Sera Monastery, built in the fifteenth century. It is home to several hundred monks from different parts of Tibet, and you can witness the famous Buddhist philosophical debates among the monks. Rest of the day is for acclimatization and relaxation. Overnight in Lhasa.

Today, we will drive to Gyantse from Lhasa. Along the way, we will pass by the beautiful Yamdrok Lake and the majestic Nyechen Kangsar glacier. After crossing the Khamba pass and stopping for lunch at Nakartse town, we continue our journey via Karo pass. We will have the opportunity to see the Nyenchenkhangsar glacier before reaching Gyantse, also known as the Hero’s Town. In Gyantse, we will visit the Kumbum monastery and the impressive Palchoe stupa. Overnight in Gyantse.

We will drive from Gyantse to Shigatse, with a visit to Shalu Monastery along the way. Shalu Monastery, established in the 11th century, is known for its unique Tibetan and Chinese architectural style. After a brief visit to Shalu, we continue our drive to Shigatse. In Shigatse, we will explore the Tashilhunpo Monastery, one of the largest functioning monasteries in western Tibet. The monastery houses the treasury tombs of successive Panchen Lamas. You can also take a hike and circumambulate the monastery to experience the footsteps of pilgrims. Overnight in Shigatse.

Today, we will drive from Shigatse to Shegar, with a visit to Sakya monastery along the way. We will cross the Tsola pass (4500m) and reach Sakya monastery (4280m), known for its unique ash grey color with white and red vertical stripes. The monastery represents the Rigsum Gonpo, the trinity of bodhisattvas. Divided by the Zong chu or Trum chu river, it offers a fascinating sight. After lunch, we continue driving to Old Tingri, crossing the Gyatso pass (5147m), and finally reach Shegar. Along the way, we will encounter picturesque villages, nomadic tents, and even a hot spring. Overnight in Shegar.

Today, we will drive to the high Phangla pass (5100m), where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the five majestic peaks, including Mount Everest. Marveling at the magnificent mountain scenery, we will proceed to Tashi Zom village, a traditional village nestled amidst towering peaks. After a short break, we continue our journey to the Kharta valley, following the road along the Dzakar Chu river. This scenic route leads us to the campsite. Overnight camping.

Our trekking adventure begins today. Crossing rocky terrains and snowy landscapes, we will witness pristine rivers and encounter wild goats and asses along the way. Be prepared to capture some incredible shots of these wild animals. During the trek, we will also have the privilege of admiring the majestic east face of Mount Everest. Our camping spot for the night is Lhundrubling, a renowned location where many hikers spend their second night in the Kharta Yulbaa area. Overnight camping.

As we depart from Lhundrubling and head towards the Shao pass, we are treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and Mount Everest. The grandeur of the Himalayas unfolds before our eyes as we make our way closer. The trek also takes us through enchanting yak pastures, meandering valleys, and impressive groves filled with dwarf bushes. Our campsite for the night is Joksam, nestled amidst pine and fir forests, offering a truly captivating view. Overnight camping.

Today, we will ascend through a magnificent ridgeline of conifer forests as we leave the valley. If weather permits, we will be treated to awe-inspiring views of Mount Makalu (8463m) and other towering peaks. Along the way, we will pass by herder’s camps and beautiful lakes. It will be a challenging day as we make our way to the cave located in the Khangshung valley, where we will spend the night. Overnight camping.

Today is a more relaxed day with less trekking, allowing you to fully appreciate and immerse yourself in the surrounding beauty. As you explore the area, you will encounter sacred shelters and prayer rooms found in caves, experiencing the ancient spirituality that permeates this place. The profound silence of the area is truly remarkable, and you will also have the opportunity to visit sacred lakes nearby. Overnight camping.

We will embark on the shepherd trail, which offers stunning meadows and challenging steep slopes for an adventurous hike. Following this trail will lead us to breathtaking views of Mount Everest and Qomo Lhunzo glacier. We will set up camp amidst picturesque yak pastures. Overnight camping.

Today, we will be treated to the mesmerizing sight of the Khangshung face and the awe-inspiring gigantic peaks in the vicinity. As we wander around these peaks, including the North East ridge, we will make our way back to the campsite at Hoppo. Overnight camping.

We will venture into another valley today, taking a trail that leads us to the north of the Langma pass. Throughout the trek, we will have the privilege of witnessing the majestic presence of Makalu, and we will set up camp at the base of this impressive pass. Overnight camping.

Today, we will challenge ourselves by climbing up the high pass and relish the rewarding descent. Along the way, we will be treated to breathtaking views of three 8000m peaks – Makalu, Everest, and Lhotse. As we pass herder’s camps and encounter friendly nomads, we will continue our trek to Lhundrubling. Overnight camping

On our last day of trekking, we will enjoy a relatively relaxed journey as we make our way to Kharta, savoring the sights and sounds of the local area. Take pleasure in each step you take at this altitude. Overnight camping.

Today, we begin our return journey to Lhasa, driving back through Shegar. We have the opportunity to stop for photos if there are any missed opportunities on the way to Kharta. Overnight in Lhatse.

After breakfast, we drive back to Lhasa via Shigatse, the second largest city in Tibet, known for its heroic history. We will also pass by the turquoise Yamdrok Lake. Today will be a long day of driving. Overnight in Lhasa.

On your second-to-last day, you will visit Norbulingka and have the opportunity to buy gifts for your loved ones. There will be no guide or driver accompanying you today. Overnight in Lhasa.

Today marks your departure from Tibet, and our staff will see you off at the train station or Lhasa Airport.