8 days Shalu to Nartang Monastery Trekking Tour
This 8-day Shalu to Nartang Monastery Trek combines Tibetan culture and easy trekking. Walk through quiet villages, barley fields, and dry valleys between two historic monasteries near Shigatse, offering a glimpse into authentic Tibetan life and scenery.
Itinerary
The Shalu to Nartang Monastery Trek is one of Tibet’s most accessible and rewarding short treks, offering both cultural discovery and gentle hiking. Starting from the 14th-century Shalu Monastery near Gyantse, the trail heads west over two low passes—Showa-La (≈4,100 m) and Char-La (≈4,300 m)—before reaching Ngor and Nartang Monasteries near Shigatse.
Along the way, the route winds through traditional farming villages, barley fields, and quiet, dry valleys dotted with yak pastures and stone walls. The total trekking time is about 17 hours, usually spread over two or three days. With moderate altitude, easy logistics, and rich cultural encounters, this short trek is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic taste of rural Tibet. The best season is from April to October, when the weather is clear and trails are dry.
Upon arrival at Lhasa airport or train station, to be met and transferred to your hotel in Lhasa. Then have a good rest to acclimatize the high altitude. Overnight at Lhasa.
After breakfast, visit Jokhang Temple, it's the most sacred shrine in Tibet which was built in the 7th century and located at the heart of old town in Lhasa, the circuit around it called Barkhor street, which is a good place to purchase souvenirs. Then visit Potala Palace, 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 of them are the focal points of pilgrims from the 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. Both 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 10,000 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.
Head to Kambala pass which is 4794m high, you will have a glimpse of Yamdrok-Tso there. It is one of the three holy lakes in Tibet. Then drive to Chushul along Nepal friendship way to Gyantse, visit the famous stupa - Gyantse Kumpum, the most stunning architectural wonder in Tibet. Overnight at Gyantse.
Drive to Shalu Monastery from Gyantse, only 49km away. Visit Shalu Monastery the seat of Buton Rinchendrub (1290-1346) who was the great codifier of the Tibetan translations of the Indian Buddhist canon. Then start trekking in the afternoon to Upper Lungsang. Camping.
Today trek through the fields to the day's destination Ngor village, the Ngor monastery is renowned for its Sanskrit library and Newar-style murals. There were once five assembly halls, 18 colleges and 400 monks, but presently there are only 25 monks. Our driver will pick you up there and drive to Shigatse, stop to visit Nartang Monastery. Overnight at Shigatse.
Visit Tashilunpo Monastery and its spectacular tombs of Panchen Lamas in the morning, afternoon drive back to Lhasa via northern friendship highway, following along the Brahmaputra river. Overnight at Lhasa.
Your guide and driver will see you off at the airport or train station, end of the trip. Wish to see you again in the future.
Inclusions
Tour notes:
General inclusions:
General exclusions:
You may also like
Tibet Nagchu Horse Racing Festival is one of the main summer festivals in Tibet. Join this festival tour and see with your own eyes the local brave Tibetan herdsmen's skilled riding techniques while experiencing authentic Tibetan culture.
Trek from Ganden Monastery to Samye, Tibet’s most famous trekking route. Cross alpine valleys, high passes, and nomadic camps while exploring ancient monasteries and Tibetan culture along the way.
Discover Tibet’s spiritual and rural heart on this 8-day journey from Lhasa. Travel beyond the capital to visit ancient monasteries, soak in Tidrum Hot Springs, meet nomads on the Central Plateau, and admire the turquoise Namtso Lake amid vast highland scenery.
Join a 7-day Tibet culture tour from Lhasa to Gyantse and Shigatse. Explore Potala Palace, Jokhang, Gyantse Dzong, and Tashilhunpo Monastery. Enjoy Yamdrok Lake views, visit local families, and travel at a relaxed pace, ideal for families or seniors.
Reply