Nyingchi, Lhasa & Shigatse Tour

Fly to Nyingchi, one of Tibet’s most scenic regions, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Tibet” for its breathtaking alpine landscapes. Known for its lush forests, clear rivers, and majestic mountains, Nyingchi offers a stunning contrast to the more arid regions of Tibet. The area is especially famous in spring when the peach blossoms bloom, blanketing the valley in a sea of pink and white. This vibrant display of nature attracts many visitors, particularly from late March to mid-April, during the peak peach blossom season.

Upon arrival at Nyingchi airport, your local Tibetan guide and driver will greet you and transfer you to Bayi town for check-in at your hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a visit to Biri Holy Mountain, renowned for its serene beauty and panoramic views. The rest of the day will be dedicated to resting and acclimatizing to the high altitude, allowing you to adjust and prepare for the days ahead. 

Driving Distance: 230 km, Approx. 5-6 hours

Begin with a visit to the Great Cypress Nature Reserve, 5 km southeast of Bayi, where ancient cypress trees over 2,500 years old still thrive. Revered in the Bön tradition, the oldest cypress is a sacred site for local pilgrimage.

Continue east to Serkhym-la Pass (4,728 m) for stunning views of Mt. Namcha Barwa (7,782 m) and Gyala Pelri (7,151 m) in a clear day. This is also a meaningful place to hang prayer flags for blessings.

Descending from the pass, arrive at the verdant Lulang Forest (3,700 m), a highland meadow belt of pines, spruce, and rhododendron framed by jagged peaks. From the viewing platform, admire alpine valleys and landscapes often compared to Switzerland.

Continue to Guxiang Lake, a hidden gem surrounded by mountains. The calm waters mirror the snowy peaks, creating a serene setting ideal for relaxation and reflection.
Finally, drive on through the scenic Rongchu Valley to reach Bomi for an overnight stay.

Start the day with a beautiful drive along the G318 Highway, one of the most scenic roads in Tibet. The route winds through mountains, forests, and rivers on the way to Ranwu Lake.

At Ranwu Lake, the largest in eastern Tibet, you’ll find calm turquoise waters reflecting snow-capped peaks and forests. Spring and autumn are especially stunning, when blossoms or golden colors frame the lake like a painting.

On the way back, stop at Midui Village to see the Midui Glacier, often called one of the most beautiful glaciers in China. With its towering icefalls and surrounding forests, it’s a striking sight.

Return to Bomi in the evening for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, leave Bomi and head toward Tashigang Village, a traditional Tibetan settlement nestled among beautiful mountain landscapes. With its terraced fields, stone houses, and grazing yaks, the village reflects the simple rhythm of rural life in eastern Tibet. Nearby the Alpine Pasture opens onto sweeping views of valleys and snow peaks, a great place for photography and leisurely hiking. 

Afterwards, continue the drive to Bayi for overnight. 

After breakfast, follow the Nyang River Valley, one of the most beautiful river valleys in Tibet and a major tributary of the Yarlung Tsangpo, as you begin the drive west toward Lhasa.

Make a detour to visit Basum-tso Lake (Draksum Tso, 3,500 m), a stunning alpine lake revered by the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and ancient forests, and its turquoise waters form a beautiful contrast with the greenery. On a small island stands Tsodzong Monastery, a 1,500-year-old temple reached by a wooden bridge. From the Daqiela Viewing Platform, you can admire panoramic views of the lake and its surroundings. In spring, peach blossoms along the shores add even more charm. An optional boat ride is available for those who wish to experience the lake from the water.

Continue driving through winding valleys and cross the Mila Pass (5,013 m), the final high pass before reaching Lhasa. The road then descends into a fertile valley leading to the capital.

Arrive in Lhasa by evening and check in for an overnight stay.

Start your exploration of Lhasa with a visit to the iconic Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important landmarks in Tibet. This stunning structure, once the winter residence of the Dalai Lama, offers breathtaking views and intricate Tibetan architecture. You’ll then head to Jokhang Temple, another UNESCO-listed site and the spiritual heart of Lhasa. This temple is revered by Tibetans as the holiest site in the region. Afterward, take a stroll through the Barkhor Street, a bustling pilgrimage route surrounding the Jokhang Temple. This vibrant market offers a glimpse into Tibetan culture, with street vendors selling traditional items, and locals performing their religious rituals.

Today, visit two of the most important monasteries in Lhasa: Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery. Drepung, once the largest monastery in the world, offers a fascinating insight into Tibetan Buddhism, with its grand halls and spiritual atmosphere. Then, head to Sera Monastery, known for its lively debates among monks (15:00 – 17:00, available from Monday to Saturday), who engage in intellectual discussions about Buddhist philosophy. Both monasteries showcase Tibetan religious traditions and beautiful Tibetan architecture.

Driving Distance: Approx. 360 km, 6-7 hours / Highlights: Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier, and Gyantse Kumbum.

Yamdrok Lake, one of the three holiest lakes in Tibet, is easily accessible from Lhasa. Upon reaching Gampala Pass (4790m), you will get your first glimpse of Yamdrok-tso (4400m). The lake is encircled by numerous snow-capped mountains and offers breathtaking views of Holy Mount Nyenchen Khangsar (7191m), the tallest mountain near Lhasa. You will drive along the lakeshore for about half an hour, during which time you can step out of the car to touch the lake’s blue waters and take photos. At the end of the lake, enjoy your lunch at a local Tibetan family.

Karo La Glacier, at an altitude of 5,100 meters, provides a stunning overlook of Mt. Nyenchen Kangsar glacier. A brief stop is scheduled here for an excellent photo opportunity.

In Gyantse city, visit the famous stupa – Gyantse Kumbum, one of the most stunning architectural wonders in Tibet. If time is allowed, wonder around in the Gyantse ancient city and take photos.

Afterward drive from Gyantse to Shigatse, the 2nd largest city in Tibet. Stay overnight at Shigatse.

Driving Distance: 270 km, Approx. 4–5 hours

After breakfast, visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama and home to the world’s largest statue of Maitreya Buddha. Built on a hillside, it remains the spiritual heart of Shigatse and an important pilgrimage site.

Then drive back to Lhasa along the northern Friendship Highway. On the way, stop in Nyemo County to see a local incense workshop, where villagers handcraft Tibetan incense from natural herbs and woods.

Continue the scenic drive beside the Yarlung Tsangpo River, passing changing landscapes of valleys and distant peaks. Arrive in Lhasa by late afternoon, with time to relax or wander Barkhor Street for last-minute shopping.

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Lhasa Gonggar Airport or the train station for your departure, bringing your unforgettable journey through Tibet to a close. Safe travels and a wealth of cherished memories from your time in Tibet!