10 days Yunnan to Tibet Overland Tour (Lijiang-Lhasa)

Drive from Lijiang to Zhongdian (Shangri-la), on the way stop to visit the First Bend on the Yangtze River with imposing gorge scenery and the deepest gorge in the world - Tiger Leaping Gorge(Middle part). In the afternoon explore Shangri-la old town. Overnight at Zhongdian.

Morning visit Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, the biggest Buddhism Gelugpa monastery in Yunnan, reputed as 'Little Potala Palace' which was built according to the complex of Potala Palace in Lhasa. Afterward driving to Deqin, it takes about 4-5 hours, along the way with beautiful landscapes including Baima Snow mountain and Benzilan the First Bend of the Jinsha River. Reach to Feilaisi in the early afternoon where you can enjoy the fabulous view of Mount Meili (Kawar Karpo in Tibetan)(6740m). If time is allowed, drive to see the beautiful Mingyong Glacier at the foot of Kawa Karpo - the main peak of Mt. Meili. Overnight at Feilaisi.

Depart Pomi and continue west along the G318. Stop at Tashigang Village, a traditional Tibetan settlement with stone houses, terraced fields, and grazing yaks set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Drive onward through the vast Lulang Forest, a highland meadow of spruce, pine, and rhododendron framed by jagged mountains. From the viewing platform, take in stunning views of alpine valleys, often compared to the landscapes of Switzerland. Cross the Sejila Pass (4,728 m), where colorful prayer flags mark the summit and, on clear days, you’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas of Mount Namche Barwa (7,782 m). By late afternoon, descend into the Nyang River Valley and arrive in Bayi (2,900 m) for overnight.

P.S. If you take this overland trip in late March or early of April, then add an extra day to visit Pomi Peach Blossom Valley, where the villages and valleys burst into pink and white blossoms framed by snow peaks.

In the morning, visit Bayi Giant Cypress Park, home to ancient cypress trees including the sacred “King Cypress,” believed to be over 2,500 years old. Then follow the scenic road along the Niyang River, making a detour to the stunning Draksum-tso (Basum-tso Lake, 3,500 m). Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense forests, this turquoise alpine lake is one of the most beautiful in eastern Tibet. Walk across the wooden floating bridge to Tsodzong Island, where the 1,500-year-old Tsodzong Monastery nestles among trees, the spiritual highlight of the lake.

Afterwards, continue the drive to Lhasa along the newly built Lhasa–Nyingchi Highway. Cross the Mila Pass (5,013 m), where colorful prayer flags flutter over sweeping mountain views. By late afternoon, arrive in Lhasa (3,658 m), the capital of Tibet. Overnight in Lhasa.

Today you will be arranged to visit Jokhang temple and Potala Palace. Jokhang temple is the most sacred shrine in Tibet which was built in the 7th century, the circuit around it called Barkhor street, which is a good place to purchase souvenirs. Potala Palace is the worldwide known cardinal landmark of Tibet. The massive structure itself contains a small world within it. Mostly it is renowned as residence of the Dalai Lama lineages (Avalokiteshvara). Both are the focal points of pilgrims from the entire Tibetan world, multitudinous pilgrims are circumambulating and prostrating in their strong faith. Overnight at Lhasa.

Today you will be arranged to visit Drepung, Sera monasteries and Summer Palace - Norbulingka palace. Both Drepung and Sera monasteries are Gelugpa (yellow hat) sect monastic colleges. Drepung monastery was the seat of the Government prior to Potala, it was once the world largest monastery in the history with 7,700 monks hailed from different monasteries all over Tibet. Sera monastery is famous for its Buddhism philosophical debate practice, the clapping sound and aggressive expression of the monks are well worth to see. Norbulingka is the summer palace of Dalai Lama, you can visit the residences of different lineages of the Dalai Lama. The park is crowded with picnickers and traditional activities during the Shoton (Yogurt festival) in August. Overnight at Lhasa.

Your guide and driver will see you off at the airport or train station, end of the trip.