Trekking the Tibetan Dream

Upon your arrival at the high-altitude region, it’s essential to slow down and relax. Your guide will escort you to your hotel, allowing your body to acclimatize to the altitude. Welcome to Tibet!

Helpful Tip: From the moment you step onto Tibetan soil, remember to walk and talk slowly. Mild symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or nausea are common and usually improve by the next day. If symptoms become severe, please contact your travel concierge.

In the morning, you will visit the Potala Palace, the highest ancient palace in the world and the historical residence of the Dalai Lamas. To reach the palace, you must climb 1,080 steps. Although the climb may be tiring, the breathtaking view of Lhasa will make it worthwhile!

In the afternoon, you will explore the Jokhang Temple, a sacred site for Tibetan Buddhists. "A trip to Lhasa is not complete without visiting Jokhang Temple." The temple's architecture reflects a fusion of Tibetan, Tang, Nepalese, and Indian styles, representing a timeless example of Tibetan religious architecture.

Afterward, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll around Jokhang Temple, visiting the handicraft market on Barkhor Street or relaxing in a tea house, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of Tibetan life.

After breakfast, you will depart from Lhasa to Shigatse. En route, you will cross the Gambala Pass at an altitude of 4,900 meters, followed by a visit to the stunning Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet's three sacred lakes, renowned for its breathtaking beauty. The azure waters of the lake contrasting with distant snow-capped mountains create a picturesque landscape.

Continuing along the shores of Yamdrok Lake, you will pass by the Karola Glacier, visible from the roadside, before reaching Gyantse, a historic town over 600 years old. Here, you will visit the Kumbum Stupa, famous for its exquisite murals and carvings. Afterward, you will head to Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest city.

After breakfast, ensure you have all necessary gear and transfer your excess luggage to yaks for transport. You only need to carry your meals and drinking water for the day.

Around 11 AM, you will start trekking from Yupa Village, ascending a gentle slope through a misty landscape that feels like a fairyland. Your destination is the beautiful Xiaowucuo, a high-altitude lake under the Xiaowula Pass, known for its stunning reflections of Makalu and the golden sunlight on the mountains. Camp overnight by the lake.

Departing from Xiaowucuo, you will trek towards the Zhuoxiang Camp, ascending to the Xiaowula Pass at 4,900 meters before descending to Zhuoxiang (4,030 meters). Zhuoxiang is a picturesque valley surrounded by lush vegetation, with snow-capped mountains in the distance and streams flowing through the valley, creating a beautiful landscape. Camp overnight in Zhuoxiang.

From Zhuoxiang, you will ascend through forests before reaching the ridge, offering a panoramic view of the entire Gama Valley. By noon, you will arrive at the Cuolang Lake Camp, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. After a short rest, you will continue trekking, crossing another pass to reach the enchanting Xianong Pasture, where you may encounter nomadic herders and yaks grazing on lush grass. Finally, you will arrive at the Tangxiang Viewing Platform (4,510 meters), where, on a clear day, you can see a stunning panorama of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Shishapangma, and Cho Oyu, making it one of the best spots for photographing these majestic peaks.

Today, you will begin your trek at the Tangxiang Viewing Platform, enjoying the breathtaking views of the golden sunlight illuminating the mountains. Afterward, you will descend steeply into the Gama Valley, arriving at the Baidang Camp (4,950 meters) after navigating through rocky terrain.

Your trek today takes you to the Everest East Base Camp, followed by a return to Baidang. The ascent involves a steep rocky path, with a gradient of about 45 degrees, so it’s important to watch your footing and proceed carefully. As you ascend, you will have the opportunity for close-up views of Mount Everest and the spectacular glaciers on its northern face.

Upon reaching the Everest East Base Camp, you will feel a sense of accomplishment as you take in the majestic beauty of the world’s highest peak. After enjoying the stunning mountain scenery, you will need to return to Baidang before nightfall to camp for the night.

Today, you will retrace your steps back to the Tangxiang Viewing Platform, accompanied by breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Shishapangma, and Makalu on either side of your path. The journey back offers another chance to appreciate the stunning landscapes and serene environment of the region.

Leaving the Tangxiang Viewing Platform, you will ascend along the mountain trail to Cuoxue Renma(5,013 meters). This area features two beautiful lakes, which are perfect spots for capturing panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains, their reflections, and the golden sunlight illuminating the peaks.

Today, you will tackle the highest point of your trek, the Langmala Pass (5,344 meters), as well as another pass over 5,000 meters. Along the way, you will pass by the beautiful high-altitude Lazecuo Lake, eventually arriving at Lanjulu Village.

After breakfast, you will depart from Lanjulu Village and return to Gaula Pass by vehicle. You will enjoy lunch in Baiba Township in Dingri County before continuing back to Shigatse, where you will check into your hotel and have time to relax and recover from the trekking.

You will drive back to Lhasa today, with a stop in the Yarlung Tsangpo Valley for a moment of relaxation, allowing you to soak in the unique beauty of the highland river valley.

Spend your day at leisure in Lhasa. You can revisit any favorite sites, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax at a local tea house, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the city as you prepare for your departure.

After breakfast, your guide will arrange for your transfer to the airport or train station according to your flight or train schedule. Bid farewell to the enchanting land of Tibet, taking with you unforgettable memories of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and spiritual experiences.