Nyingchi, Lhasa and Yamdrok lake 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. 

After breakfast, drive east from Bayi up to Serkhym-la Pass (4,582 m), one of the most scenic viewpoints in eastern Tibet. In June, the hillsides are blanketed with blooming azaleas. From the pass, enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Namche Barwa (7,756 m), Gyala Pelri (7,151 m), and the valley below.

Descend into the Lulang Forest (3,700 m), a vast alpine meadow framed by spruce, pine, and rhododendron, with snow peaks in the distance. Stop at the viewing platform for stunning panoramas of this “Little Switzerland of Tibet.”

Continue to Tashigang Village, a traditional Tibetan settlement with stone houses, terraced fields, and grazing yaks. The village offers a glimpse into rural Tibetan life and is a wonderful place for photography.

Afterward head to visit the Alpine Pasture nearby, where wide-open meadows stretch toward the mountains. Here you can stroll through grasslands dotted with wildflowers, watch yaks and sheep grazing, and capture photos of snow-capped peaks and valleys. Depending on the season, you may also see local herders at work and experience the slower pace of traditional Tibetan pasture life.

On the way back to Bayi, if time permits, visit the Giant Cypress Nature Reserve, home to ancient cypress trees, including the sacred “King Cypress,” believed to be over 2,500 years old.

Overnight in Bayi Town.

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 Tibet’s most celebrated landmarks. Once the winter residence of the Dalai Lama, this magnificent structure offers panoramic views of the city and showcases exquisite Tibetan architecture and sacred relics. Afterwards head to Jag Pori (Yaowang Shan) Viewing Platform, the best vantage point for the classic postcard photograph of the Potala Palace.

Then, head to visit the Jokhang Temple, another UNESCO-listed site and the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism. Revered as the holiest temple in Tibet, it draws pilgrims from across the plateau who prostrate and walk the kora around the temple.

Stroll along Barkhor Street, the bustling pilgrimage circuit encircling the Jokhang, where you can witness devotion in motion, spin prayer wheels, and browse stalls filled with Tibetan crafts, incense, and traditional items.

In the afternoon, head to Sera Monastery, one of the three great Gelugpa monasteries of Lhasa. Famous for its monastic debates held in the courtyard, Sera offers a lively window into Tibetan Buddhist learning and tradition.

Overnight in Lhasa.

After breakfast, meet your guide and driver at the hotel and set out on a day trip to the turquoise Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes.

After about two hours, arrive at the Lu Ri La viewpoint, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Yamdrok’s shimmering waters, scattered islands, and snow-capped peaks on the horizon.

Continue along the lakeshore road for different perspectives of the lake, stopping at Rituo Monastery, a small and secluded temple that sits on a peninsula jutting into the water. Its peaceful setting and resident monks make it one of the most atmospheric sites around Yamdrok.

Around midday, visit a local Tibetan family by the lakeshore. You’ll be welcomed into their home, learn about daily life, and share a simple lunch together.

In the afternoon, return to Lhasa via the Gampala Pass (4,900 m). From here, enjoy a final sweeping view of Yamdrok Lake, with Noijin Kangsang Peak (7,191 m) rising in the distance, before descending back to the city.

Overnight in Lhasa.

Your guide and driver will see you off at Lhasa airport or train station, end this short Lhasa Nyingchi tour with WindhorseTour.