Take China Group Tours in 2025 to enjoy 30% discount compared to a private tour. Same Experience & Lowest Price!9 Days Nyingchi Peach Blossom Festival Group Tour: Ranwu Shigatse Lhasa
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Tour Code: AOT-TGT-X
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Travel Route: Nyingchi - Lulang - Bome- Ranwu - Nyingchi - Basumtso - Lhasa - Shigatse - Lhasa
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Features: Peach Blossom Festival, Lakes, Glaciers, World Heritages, Nature, Snow Mountains, Architectures, Religious Sites, Monasteries, Culture
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Tour Type: Small Group of maximum 15 travelers, guaranteed departures;
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Guide & Driver: English-speaking guide, experienced driver with an air-conditioned coach
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Accommodation: 8 nights at good 3-star hotels
- Itinerary
- Dates & Price
- Accommodation
- Trip Notes
- Reviews
Welcome to your exclusive Nyingchi Peach Blossom Festival Tour on April 1st!
Nyingchi, the birthplace of the Tibet Peach Blossom Festival, is the heart of this vibrant spectacle, with vast fields of peach blossoms transforming the landscape into a pink paradise. We'll take you to the finest viewing spots, including China's largest peach grove at Bomi Peach Blossom Valley and two picturesque villages. Yet this journey encompasses far more than flowers.
Your adventure includes Tibet's most breathtaking landscapes: tranquil highland waters of Ranwu Lake, Yamdrok Lake, Basomtso Lake, and Guxiang Lake; the enchanting Lulang Forest; and magnificent ice formations at Laigu Glacier and Karola Glacier - all pristine examples of Tibet's natural splendor.
Discover Tibet's rich culture through visits to the iconic Potala Palace, sacred Jokhang Temple, bustling Barkhor Street, and the grand Tashilunpo Monastery in Shigatse - places where Tibet's ancient traditions and spiritual heritage continue to flourish.
Itinerary Day by Day
Tashi Delek! Welcome to Nyingchi, Switzerland of Tibet! Upon your arrival, our guide and driver will greet you at Nyingchi Mainling Airport. Complimentary Airport Transfer Service: Free pick-up for flights between 08:30 AM and 10:00 AM
In the afternoon, you will head to the best Peach Blossom Village in Nyingchi – the Gala Peach Blossom Village. With over 1,200 wild peach trees spanning more than 270 acres, Gala Village is a "paradise on earth." When spring arrives, the peach blossoms bloom in sequence, painting the mountainsides in pink, creating a breathtakingly beautiful and radiant landscape.
Next, travel from Nyingchi City to Segrila Pass, which is 48 kilometers away. Segrila Pass is renowned as one of the highest road passes in Nyingchi, standing at an impressive elevation of 4,768 meters. Positioned on the southeastern edge of the Nyainqentanglha Range, it provides awe-inspiring panoramic vistas of the snow-capped peaks that envelop it. Amongst these majestic peaks, you will be treated to the remarkable sight of Mount Namche Barwa, the highest mountain in the eastern Himalayas. Mount Namche Barwa, towering at a staggering elevation of 7,782 meters, is celebrated for its breathtaking beauty and is widely considered one of the most awe-inspiring peaks in the entire region. Its surroundings are adorned with stunning landscapes, featuring deep gorges and dense forests that only enhance its majestic allure. The slopes of the mountain are embellished with glaciers, further enhancing its grand appearance. You will have ample time to spend at Segrila Pass, where you can admire the breathtaking panoramic views and capture stunning photographs.
As you journey along National Highway 318, winding down the mountain road from Segrila Mountain Pass to Lulang Town, a remarkable transformation takes place. The majestic snow-capped peaks gradually fade from view, replaced by a lush expanse of tall trees. Welcome to Lulang Forest, a place of captivating natural beauty. The name "Lulang" originates from the Tibetan language, meaning "Loong King Valley" or "a place that will make you forget your home." This enchanting destination has earned the nickname "Switzerland of Tibet" for its resemblance to the scenic landscapes of the Swiss Alps. Travel enthusiasts often refer to it as "Snowy Switzerland" due to its vast, year-round greenery, untouched forests, abundant azaleas adorning the mountains, and the meandering rivers that flow through the region. Lulang Forest is characterized by its dense vegetation, boasting a rich variety of trees such as cypress, spruce, and birch. The forest floor is adorned with a colorful carpet of wildflowers, enhancing its charm and vibrancy. Have a panoramic view at Lulang Observation Deck.
In Lulang, you will be treated to the featured Lulang Stone Pot Chicken for dinner.
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Attractions
3 sites
Transportation
Coach
Dining
Dinner
Accommodation
Standard hotel in Lulang
After breakfast, we will proceed to Guxiang Lake, which is situated 33 kilometers from Bomi County. This freshwater barrier lake is 5 kilometers long, 2 kilometers wide, and over 20 meters deep. It is surrounded by primeval forests, with ancient trees standing tall, creating a picturesque scene. The crystal-clear water allows visitors to see the beautiful scenery at the bottom of the lake. Take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside, soaking in the serenity of the natural surroundings and feeling at peace with the world.
Next, continue to Bomi Peach Blossom Valley, stretching across 30 kilometers. Every spring, the valley is transformed into a breathtaking spectacle as the peach blossoms reach full bloom, earning it the title of "The Largest Peach Blossom Valley in China." Against the backdrop of towering glacier-capped mountains, the valley comes alive with vibrant peach blossoms, their delicate pink hues contrasting beautifully with the traditional Tibetan-style houses nestled within the landscape. Walking through the orchards, with petals gently falling beneath your feet and the air filled with the sweet fragrance of flowers, you will feel as though you've entered a dreamlike world.
After leaving Bomi, we head towards Ranwu Lake, located at an altitude of 3,850 meters. This beautiful plateau lake is known for its crystal-clear blue waters, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The primary water source for the lake comes from the melting snow on the surrounding peaks, and it is also the source of the Pailong Zangbu River. The lakeside meadows are lush with vibrant green grass, and the fertile farmland is rich and thriving. Forests and shrubs complement one another, creating a breathtaking landscape that is nothing short of spectacular.
Attractions
3 sites
Transportation
Coach
Dining
Breakfast
Accommodation
Standard hotel in Ranwu
After breakfast, we will drive to Laigu Glacier, located 20 kilometers from Ranwu Town, where we will explore the extraordinary blue ice caves of the glacier.
The Himalayas, where Laigu Glacier is situated, is one of the highest mountain ranges in the world, home to numerous glaciers. Laigu Glacier was formed around 100,000 years ago and is one of the oldest glaciers in Tibet. Over the millennia, Laigu Glacier has undergone multiple phases of expansion and retreat, leaving behind numerous beautiful glacial relics.
Laigu Glacier refers to a group of glaciers, including Meixi, Yalong, Ruoqiao, Dongga, Xionga, and Niuma glaciers, with different glaciers open to visitors depending on the season. From April to October, the Dongga Glacier is most likely to be open, with the Blue Ice Cave being the most famous spot along the Dongga line. Inside the glacier, massive ice caves have formed, and the blue ice layers within the caves are as crystal-clear as water. Standing inside the cave, it feels as if you are in an ice palace, surrounded by pure blue light.
Visitors can take the scenic area’s shuttle bus to the Summer Pasture (round trip about 40 km). Upon reaching the Summer Pasture, you can choose to hike (free, round trip about 4 km, altitude 4100-4400 meters) or ride a horse (additional cost, approximately 300 yuan per person, payable at the riding point - actual price may vary and is subject to local signage).
The total time for exploration is about 3.5 to 4 hours. You will have ample time to explore the dazzling blue glaciers and ice lakes, as well as the ice caves. Along the way, you can closely appreciate the pastoral meadows, the azure alpine lakes, and towering snow-capped peaks.
Finally, we will drive to Bome for accommodation.
Attractions
1 Site
Transportation
Coach
Dining
Breakfast
Accommodation
Standard hotel in Bome
After breakfast, we will depart from Bome and drive to visit Tashi Gang Village, located near Lulang Town. This quaint village sits at the base of a high-altitude mountain meadow, surrounded by lush green mountains that create an endless sea of forests, rising from low to high. The forests consist of shrubs, dense spruces, pines, and other trees. Nestled between the mountains lies a well-kept meadow, where streams gather, and flowers bloom. Wooden fences and houses adorn the area, with distant snow-capped peaks and nearby forests adding to the natural beauty. It creates a peaceful and stunning "mountain scene."
In spring and summer, a variety of flowers bloom in the green meadows and forests, competing for beauty. In the autumn and winter, Tashi Gang Village greets the season with thick mist. The mist wraps around the mountains, with towering snow peaks faintly visible through the clouds.
AfterTashi Gang Village, we head to Nyingchi for Accommodation. Along the way, we will pass through the Segrila Pass again.
Attractions
1 Site
Transportation
Coach
Dining
Breakfast
Accommodation
Standard hotel in Nyingchi
After breakfast, we'll depart Nyingchi and drive (about 2 hours) to Basumtso Lake (altitude: 3,538 meters), also known as Basong Tso Lake or Dragsum Tso Lake. Nestled in the heart of Gongbo'gyamda County, Nyingchi Prefecture, this ethereal gem beckons with its celestial allure. Basumtso Lake, aptly named "Green Water Lake" in Tibetan, unveils its splendor through pristine turquoise waters that mirror the majestic snow-capped peaks encircling its shores. As a national forest park and a distinguished 5A scenic area, it unveils a kaleidoscope of ever-changing landscapes throughout the day, each more enchanting than the last. Basumtso Lake holds profound spiritual significance for followers of Tibetan Buddhism, particularly those who embrace the Nyingma sect. It is revered as the dwelling place of the sacred spirits of Guru Rinpoche and Gesar King, revered figures woven into the tapestry of Tibetan mythology. The path leading to the lake winds through idyllic valleys and alongside majestic mountains, an awe-inspiring passage that prepares the soul for the breathtaking beauty that awaits.
Upon arrival, surrender to the captivating serenity that envelops the lake, immersing yourself in its tranquil ambiance and celestial charm. A visit to Tashi Island, a small islet nestled within Basumtso Lake, is an absolute must. This sacred haven holds deep significance for Tibetan Buddhists and is home to Tsozong Monastery, a humble yet profoundly meaningful Buddhist sanctuary. With origins dating back to the 17th century, this spiritual haven preserves invaluable relics of the faith. Take a leisurely hike around the island, a path that meanders through spellbinding vistas of the lake and its majestic mountain guardians. As you traverse the island in harmonious synchrony, you will encounter the legendary Peach Embracing Pine, remnants of the ancient water burial platform, and the awe-inspiring "Letter Tree" adorned with naturally formed Tibetan letters on its delicate leaves. Don't forget to pay reverence to the sacred well, an oasis where timeless traditions and spiritual connection intertwine. After this captivating experience, venture towards the enchanting embrace of Jieba Village - a realm straight out of a fairytale. This idyllic hamlet offers an unparalleled vantage point to behold the magnificence of Basumtso Lake and the regal snow-crowned peaks affectionately known as the "King's Throne" and "Burning Flame." The village, gracefully inhabited by a close-knit community of traditional Tibetan families, provides a gateway to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Tibetan culture.
After visiting Basumtso Lake, it is time to return to Lhasa. The journey back will take approximately 4-5 hours.
Attractions
1 site
Transportation
Coach
Dining
Breakfast
Accommodation
Standard hotel in Lhasa
Today, it is the time to explore Lhasa by visiting the world-famous Potala Palace, a World Heritage site and the picture behind the 50 RMB. And then, you will explore Lhasa by visiting Jokhang Temple, a world cultural heritage site renowned for its brilliant architecture, culture, art, and history. Finally, you can stroll through the famous Barkhor Street with locals and learn more about the daily kora life of Tibetans.
In the morning, you can walk up to the Potala Palace to explore. Not only is it the landmark of Tibet, but it is also the traditional residence and winter palace of the Dalai Lama (1649-1959). After climbing 365 steps from the gate of the Potala Palace to reach the Red Palace, you will arrive at the highest palace in the world at an altitude of 3,700m, where you can enjoy an excellent panoramic view of Lhasa city. As you explore the principal halls, chapels, and shrines of past Dalai Lamas in the Red Palace, you will be amazed and moved by its remarkable paintings, gorgeous jeweled works, skilled carving, colorful ornamentation, and the mystery stories behind the treasures. Inside the Potala Palace, you will meet many Tibetan pilgrims who come from afar to pray at this sacred site, making it a lifetime destination for them. You can also ask your guide to provide more stories about Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd king of Tibet, who first built the Potala Palace in the 7th century for his marriage to Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty. (Please note that the visit order may be adjusted based on the visiting time specified on your Potala Palace ticket. All visitors are required to visit the palace with a tour group and remain inside for one hour. Please be advised that photography is prohibited inside the palace.)
Located in the heart of Lhasa for over 1300 years, the Jokhang Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over the world. Famed as the spiritual center of Tibet, it is said that the Jokhang Monastery was built for King Songtsen Gampo's two brides: Chinese Princess Wencheng and Nepalese Princess Bhrikuti. "Jokhang" means "House of Buddha", and it houses a life-size statue of the 12-year-old Sakyamuni, which is considered a treasure of the Buddhist world. This is why Buddhist pilgrims consider it the holiest destination. The Jakhong temple is also renowned for its beautiful architecture. You can admire the intricate carvings, colorful murals, ornate decorations, and details of the building, which is a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. Time seems to stand still as you watch people pray in front of the temple during the day and night. (Please note that the visit order may be adjusted based on the reservation of your Jokhang Temple Ticket Reservation.)
Then drive approximately 7km (about 20 minutes) to visit Sera Monastery, which is one of the three great Gelug university monasteries of Tibet. It offers the opportunity to experience Tibetan Buddhism up close. The highlight of Sera Monastery is watching the monks' debate, which takes place around 15:00-17:00 (except on Sundays). The debate is an interesting form of exchange, where one monk acts as the questioner, standing while the answerer or group of answerers sit. The standing monk asks questions and slaps his palms and stomps, each action having a special meaning, such as activating wisdom, and are not meant to be aggressive. You will also have the chance to attend prayer ceremonies, visit meditation halls, and learn about the monastic way of life. It is a must-visit destination to gain insight into the beliefs and practices of Tibetan Buddhism.
In the evening, enjoy a group dinner featuring delicious Tibetan cuisine, specially offered by AOT team.
Attractions
3 Sites
Transportation
Coach
Dining
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Standard hotel in downtown Lhasa
On this day, drive about 8 to 9 hours (340km) from Lhasa to Shigatse, with a visit to two amazing natural landscapes - Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier - on the way.
In the morning, after about 3 to 4 hours of driving (200km), make sure to have your camera ready. When you reach Kampala Pass (4,797 meters), you'll have a breathtaking view of Yamdrok Lake, a freshwater lake down below, as well as spectacular views of the holy Mt. Nyenchen Khangsar in the distance. It is one of the four largest sacred lakes in Tibet, along with Lhamo Latso Lake, Manasarovar Lake, and Namtso Lake. Yamdrok Lake offers stunning views of the Tibetan plateau and is said to be able to help Tibetans find the reincarnated soul of the Dalai Lama. Moreover, you may see dressed-up Tibetan mastiffs, dogs, goats, and yaks there. It is optional for you to pay 5-10 yuan to pose with and take photos of them; for local Tibetans, it's a way to earn extra income for their families.
In the afternoon, drive about 1.5 hours (70km) to visit one of the most beautiful glaciers in Tibet - Karola Glacier, the filming location of the movie "Red Valley" (Hong He Gu). As one of Tibet's three major continental glaciers, backed by the southern slope of Naiqin Kangsang Peak (7,191 meters), one of the four highest peaks in Tibet, this white glacier is also the source of the eastern part of the Nianchu River. The Karola Glacier (5,012m) is only 300 meters away from the highway connecting Lhasa to Gyantse town, and you can view it right from your vehicle. You can also easily walk to the foot of the charming glacier, which has a shape like a frozen waterfall right above the road and you. Besides the fantastic hike to the Karola Glacier, on the opposite side of the road, you can appreciate the beautiful snow-capped mountain of Mt Kalurong.
Notes for visiting Karola Glacier:
1. The altitude at the glacier scenic spot is about 5,012m, so be sure to slow down to avoid altitude sickness.
2. The public toilet at the glacier is very basic.
3. Local people may ask you to take photos with them for a fee. Be sure to ask before taking photos to avoid potential issues.
After that, drive about 3.5 hours (170km) to your hotel in Shigatse, the nearest town on the Friendship Highway between Tibet and Nepal. Have a good rest and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to EBC the next day.
Attractions
2 Sites
Transportation
Coach
Dining
Breakfast
Accommodation
Standard hotel in Shigatse
This morning, you will pay a visit to Tashilunpo Monastery. After that, take a train (about 2.5 hours) or take a vehicle (about 7 hours, 340km) back to Lhasa.
Founded by His Holiness the 1st Dalai Lama, Gyalwa Gedun Drup in 1447, Tashilunpo Monastery is the largest monastery in Tsang Area of Tibet. In Tashilunpo Monastery, you can visit the traditional seat of successive Panchen Lamas, Tibet's second-highest incarnation. Pay a visit to the ancient tombs of the fourth and tenth Panchen Lama, as well as the chortens, which hold the bones and remains of the sacred Tibetan lamas. Learn more from your guide about Panchen Lamas and Dalai Lamas while appreciating the brilliant religious painting on Tibetan architecture, listening to the Tibetan Buddhism chanting by local monks, and even participating in the kora like locals. Don’t forget to hike up to the top of the monastery for a stunning bird’s eye view of the monastery itself and Shigatse City.
Afterward, head back to your hotel in downtown Lhasa for a good rest.
Travel Tip: Please be aware that the mode of transportation for your return journey from Shigatse to Lhasa will be arranged by us, either by train or tourist vehicle, based on the prevailing conditions. We kindly request your understanding that specific preferences for transportation cannot be accommodated.
Attractions
2 Iconic Sites
Transportation
Coach
Dining
Breakfast
Accommodation
Standard hotel in downtown Lhasa
It is time to end your 9-Day Nyingchi Peach Blossom Festival Group Tour. And your guide will escorts you to the airport/train station for your flight or train to your next destination.
Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Tibet tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Safe journey!
Attractions
Hotel check-out and airport transfers
Transportation
Coach
Dining
Breakfast
Accommodation
None
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Hotel Selections for Tibet Group Tour
In a Tibet group tour, there are two main types of accommodation choices on a Tibet group tour: basic standard and comfortable. In major cities like Lhasa, there are a variety of accommodation options available, ranging from 3 star to 4 star hotels. In more remote areas, such as near Mount Everest or Mount Kailash, the accommodations may be more basic, with simple guesthouses or tented camps. We will email you the detailed hotel arrangement after your booking.
If there is a single room due to gender reasons, we will arrange a triple room (or double standard room with and extra bed) or pay the single room supplement by the yourself.
Important Trip Notes for Booking a Tibet Group Tour
All foreign travelers are advised to make their bookings at least one week in advance and send the necessary documents to us for obtaining the permits. However, if you plan to visit Mount Kailash, it is recommended to book at least two weeks in advance, as it may take longer to obtain the necessary permits.
29-15 days before departure: 20% cancellation fee of the total tour cost
14-7 days before departure: 50% cancellation fee of the total tour cost
7 days or less before departure: No refunds
Latest Tibet Group Tours Reviews from Our Customers
Ilwad
Australia
Tour name: Line B2, 8 days Lhasa-Yamdroktso-Shigaste-Mt.Everest tour.
Key people: Bob (local Tibetan tour guide), Catherine Wang (travel consultant), Mr. Yu. Jian (driver).
This tour was sublime, a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! From the very start, I was met with grace and incredible kindness. The driver assigned to me by the company was Susan and greeted me with a smile on her face, as well as the traditional Tibetan scarf she delicately placed around my neck. She then kindly offered to take some photos of me outside of the airport and offered me some water as we drove to the first accommodation in Lhasa. She then sent me a few locations within the city to explore, for shopping and food and shared her experience of living in the region for over a decade.
The following day we met our tour guide Bob, who to date has been my favourite tour guide. He was nothing short of incredible. Not only did he translate everything from Tibetan to Mandarin and English, making the tour accessible to all of us, but went above and beyond for all of us. Whether it was taking extra photos from awkward angles as the photographer to answering our follow-up questions or even giving us his own recommendations i.e. where to rent the traditional Tibetan clothes or shop for souvenirs. He was incredibly knowledgeable and humble- a true mix of wisdom and personal insight. I found his personal experiences and insight made the tour feel more authentic, especially as he had been doing this since 2009. His great anecdotes and true appreciation of the Tibetan culture, as well as his uplifting attitude and great sense of humour made the trip that much more special. Especially on the days when we were on the road for up to 7 hours, as we began the travel towards Everest Base Camp (EBC).
In terms of the people I met on the tour, it was truly a mixed bag in the best way possible! As I was a 22-year-old solo solo-female traveler you might expect that I would want to be around a similar company. In contrast, I had the best time ever with a wildly different demographic！ From middle-aged interracial married couples to retired solo travelers and other solo travelers, my group was made up of people from different neighbouring countries each with their own experiences of travel. As someone who is learning Chinese this was perfect for improving my linguistic skills however most could also speak English so there were no language barriers either.
The people in my group were lovely, kind and interesting characters. Each with open-minds and curiousity about the Tibetan culture. Having people from different walks of life and experiences in my group turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Even with our different backgrounds, we shared laughter, food and stories. I am grateful to have been in the same group as them for those 8 days- it was a true pleasure. Also, the nature of the tour meant that we overlapped with different groups based on both of our itineraries, meaning that we mixed with others for the first few days of the tour. This was a great way to also meet others as some were also staying at the same hotel as us.
The driver Mr. Yu Jian was also incredible. He so kindly brought our luggage in and out of the vehicles and always waited for us patiently in the mornings. Even when we (I) were running late, losing track of the timings and rushing outside with a hastily prepared buffet breakfast to go.
In terms of the tour, my personal highlights were of course seeing EBC and Everest in person, however, the in-betweens were just as remarkable. The 108 zig-zags we had to endure on the way to EBC, the petrol station stops where we’d stretch our legs and interact with the locals (often trying to sell us things) and growing closer and closer to the enchanting Everest. Being able to see the surreal landscape views of Tibet, both in Lhasa and outside, was awe-inducing. As I flew in on 25/03, I was met with the mountainscape being submerged with snow. By the time we made it to EBC, the snow had mostly melted but the rugged mountain view perfectly complemented the seemingly endless holy Yamdrok Lake. It was a nature lover’s paradise through and through, especially with the domesticated and wild animals across the area.
I also thoroughly enjoyed interacting with the locals. They met me with such curiosity, warmth and open-mindedness. I was touched to be perhaps the first black European person they met, and hope that they left our interactions with a new perspective. The first meal I had in Tibet was also sublime (I will put a picture below of the dish and a screenshot of the location I went to, recommended to me by my first driver). There was also a traditional Tibetan musical performance shortly after I had finished my meal, also recommended to me by Susan which began around 8pm!
My favourite monastery we visited was also the Tashi Lhunpo monastery in Shigatse, which we visited on our penultimate day in Tibet. We went on a Sunday which meant that not many tourists, if any, were there. Especially the tour took place during the off-season (End of March/Early April). As such it was an immersive experience being able to calmly walk through the monastery. With a history dating back to 1447, I felt like I connected to this the most, with there being living trees on the site that had been first planted over 400 years ago! Even seeing locals re-paint some of the religious paintings and the monks ready to enter for their evening classes gave a sense of serenity. It was a wonderful way to end the trip. Also, I would like to highlight seeing the Yamdrok Lake’s deep shades of turquoise from many angles (extraordinary), trying yak meat for the first time (different and at times tasty), seeing the Karola glacier (even when the rest of the landscape was snowless), seeing monks’ daily debates at Sera Monastery, of course climbing and seeing Polata Palace (tip: bring a 50 RMB note with you to take the famed picture outside Polata Palace- a fellow tour member loaned me his, thanks Yuki!), as well as Jokhang Temple and the Tibetan incense making where the activity leader wrote us, upon our request, a sign in the Tibetan language with anything i.e. our name or quotes. Seeing the stars on the first day of the new moon in the village just outside of Everest was also phenomenal (tip: walk 5-10 minutes in the opposite direction of heading into town to escape the light pollution for a better view, we only stayed out for 15 minutes just around midnight due to fatigue but if you really commit to it and maybe even venture further out and perhaps later on in the night around the new moon phase you will be stunned out what will find in the starry night sky.. hopefully the milky way!).
I would also like to give a warm mention to the hotel workers in the first hotel we stayed in Lhasa as they were incredibly kind to me. They were curious to know what my story was and where I had travelled as well as catering to my needs in the mornings (i.e. morning coffee etc.). Though they won’t see this, the woman working at the Tibetan clothes’ rental who helped me take pictures on my phone and conversed with me was also very kind! Even the shopkeeper who gave me a freebie after I bought some goods from his store was patient with me as I perused through the shops looking for instant noodles. Overall, I was met with such kindness from the very start of the trip until the very end!
Regarding altitude sickness, if you are worried about the high altitude, I bought Diamox , also known as Acetazolamide, (250mg per tablet) and got a prescription from a pharmacist. I took 1 tablet the day before I flew into Lhasa (during my layover in Kunming, Yunnan) and took another tablet for the next two days, waiting 24 hours between each 250mg dose. I adjusted well to the altitude and only took another one when we were heading to higher altitudes (particularly the mountain pass that is higher than EBC and the day of EBC). In total, I took 4 tablets on 4 days (the day before landing in Lhasa, days 1 and 2 of the tour as well as day 4 of the tour). I stopped taking it after EBC day and was fine throughout the trip. The tour will provide you with one free bottle of oxygen, as well as an emergency tank of oxygen in the shuttle bus. For reference I didn’t finish the bottle of oxygen throughout the trip but bought a spare one from the supermarket down the road from the hotel in Lhasa and the quality was great for only a few more RMB (lasted the entire trip). With a lot of water for hydration and taking it easy, alongside deep breaths, I think this tour is accessible to anyone without any underlying health conditions.
Finally, I would like to thank my tour agent Catherine Wang who has supported me throughout this trip! From when I first sent an email back in December 2024 to inquire about this tour until present she has supported me and provided me with updates throughout this process. Although I sent persistent emails (regarding the Shigatse earthquake and permit process/progress update) she always kept me in the loop. Even during the trip she had sent me an email to ask how it was going. Thank you very much for your patience and hard work, this trip has been the trip of a lifetime!
TLDR: I would 1000% recommend this trip and tour. All the little moments and cherished memories I have made will last a lifetime. Thank you to Bob, Mr. Yu Jian, Catherine, Susan, my tour group members and all the others who have made this trip so special. I am beyond grateful.
GalleryDestination(s): Tibet
Date of Experience: Oct 07, 2024
Tour Customized by: Catherine
You May be Interested in This Tour: 8 Days Lhasa Yamdrok Shigatse Group Tour with Everest Base Camp
Jia Yin
Malaysia
Right from the start, Betty, our travel agent has helped us to create an unforgettable Tibet travel experience for my husband and I. She is attentive to our needs and has helped us to obtain the necessary documents to travel to Tibet. Our Tibetan guide, Lobsang, too is very friendly and eager to share Tibetan culture and history.
Destination(s): Tibet
Date of Experience: Jul 08, 2024
Tour Customized by: Betty
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Lynn
USA
We recently took a 6 day tour to Tibet , booking through Asia Odyssey Travel through agent Thalia.
Our itinerary including:
1, flying from Peking to Xining (with one day private tour in Xining)
2, taking overnight train from Xining to Lhasa.
3, Staying in Lhasa for 4 nights visiting several monasteries, palaces and Yamdrok Lake.
4, flying from Lhasa to Chengdu with one day private tour in Chengdu.
The highlights of the tour is the overnight train ride ( around 19 hours) passing snow capped mountains with breath taking scenery. Although we were told by several tours that it was extremely difficult to obtain train tickets, Thalia was able to secure train tickets and Tibet permits for us as promised ( soft sleeper cabin for four) Thalia is the best travel agent I have dealt with so far. We communicated by WhatsApp and paid by PayPal or WeChat. Thalia sent us itinerary first and followed us throughout the whole trip with updated detailed instructions of flight information, airport pick up and tour guide contact information, scenic points on the train ride , and precautions for high altitude sickness. ( there are oxygen and humidifier in Lagani hotel in Lhasa)
When our flight from Lhasa to Chengdu was delayed, Thalia made her best efforts to rebook different flights.
We also had fantastic tours in Chengdu lead by Tina Chen and in Xining by Sally
Thalia is reliable, always replying texts promptly and available even when she was on vacation. Her English is excellent. She is professional , pleasant , optimistic and reassuring.
We definitely will contact her for any future trips to China.
Thalia email Thalia@aisiaodysseytravel.com
Destination(s): Tibet, Chengdu/Sichuan, Qinghai
Date of Experience: Nov 09, 2024
Tour Customized by: Thalia
You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour
