13 Days Sichuan Yunnan Tibet: Epic Overland Group Tour (Slow Discovery)

Welcome to Chengdu, the Hometown of Giant Pandas! The rest of today is yours to relax in panda city on your own.

Arrival Ideas:

Chengdu is well connected by air and high-speed rail. There are two airports - Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport and Chengdu Tianfu International Airport operating many international and domestic airlines. Travelers can go to Chengdu by air from most cities in China, like Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xian, Guilin, Hangzhou, Kunming, Lhasa, Lanzhou, Wuhan, Xiamen, Guiyang, Chongqing… In addition, travelers can take high speed train to Chengdu from Xian (3-4 hours), Chongqing (1.5-2 hours), Guiyang (3.5-4.5 hours), Kunming (6-6.5 hours), etc.

Free Time Ideas:

On this day, you have the flexibility to arrange your schedule and make your way to Chengdu.

For those who arrive in Chengdu in the morning, you can visit the center of Chengdu, Chunxi Road, and the thousand-year-old ancient temple, Daci Temple. You can also check out the Chinese and Western architecture of Taikoo Li and the IFS Panda Climbing Wall.

For those who arrive in Chengdu in the afternoon, you can head to Jinli Old Street and Kuanzhai Alley to experience the most leisurely and comfortable slow life in Chengdu. Alternatively, you can visit Xiaojiuguan (小酒馆), the tavern mentioned in Zhao Lei's song "Chengdu", and have a memorable experience.

Important Notes:

• The gathering day is for independent explorationand is not part of the formal itinerary. Please pay attention to your personal and property safety during this time. Insurance is not included for the gathering day.
• Go to the gathering hotel and report your "name" to get the room. The room rate has been paid, and the deposit is paid by yourself. The check-in time is generally after 14:00 on the day of the gathering. If you arrive early and the hotel room is not cleaned up and cannot be checked in, you can temporarily store your luggage at the front desk and go for a free tour around the city center;
• The team leader or driver will notify the team members of the departure time the next day before 21:00 on the gathering day. If you have not received the notification from the team leader or driver by 21:00, please contact the customer service to confirm;
• We recommend that team members purchase travel supplies such as snacks, side dishes, and medicines in the city center after arriving in Chengdu on the gathering day.

Adorable black and white bears

Playing Mahjong at Chengdu's Renmin Park

Attractions

Have a good rest and explore on your own

Transportation

please head to the designated hotel in Chengdu by yourself

Dining

None

Accommodation

standard room in 4 star hotel in Chengdu (complimentary gift)

After breakfast, drive west from Chengdu towards Western Sichuan, passing through the world-famous "Rainy City," Ya'an. Take the Yakang Expressway, cross the Erlang Mountain Tunnel, and arrive in Kangding, the capital of the Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, which is famously mentioned in the "Kangding Love Song".

After that, you will pass through Zheduo Mountain Pass, which sits at an altitude of 4,298 meters. The name Zheduo Mountain derives from its steep terrain and the unique winding road that features "nine bends and eighteen turns." Known as the "first pass of Kham," crossing Zheduo Mountain marks the official entry into the Kham Tibetan region. Furthermore, the Zheduo Mountain Pass serves as the initial pass on the Sichuan-Tibet Highway to reach an altitude exceeding 4,000 meters, signifying the transition from the Sichuan Basin and the Dadu River Valley to the western plateau of Sichuan. On clear days, you can catch a glimpse of the magnificent Gongga Mountain, also referred to as the "King of Shu Mountains", towering at an elevation of 7,508 meters, from this vantage point.

Continuing your journey, you will drive to Xinduqiao, situated in the western part of Kangding City, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, at an altitude of approximately 3,460 meters. Although not officially designated as a scenic area, Xinduqiao is often called the "Photographer's Corridor." It is renowned for its enchanting lighting, vast grasslands, numerous streams, undulating mountain ranges, scattered Tibetan villages, and tranquil scenes of grazing cattle and sheep.

After enjoying the captivating views in Xinduqiao, you will proceed to Yajiang County for your accommodation.

Important Notes:

• We will choose one of the two roads, S434 Airport Road (Honghai Lake) or G318 (Zhedoshan), depending on the time available for sightseeing and the road conditions;
• It is recommended not to take a bath for 3 days before going to the plateau to avoid catching a cold and causing altitude sickness, which will affect the whole trip.
• The water and electricity supply in the Tibetan area is insufficient, and there may be occasional water and power outages. Please bring your own wet wipes and flashlights. The water temperature for bathing may be unstable, or there may be water outages during the bathing process. Therefore, you should bathe quickly. It is best to bathe after you have fully adapted to the Tibetan area.

Zheduo Mountain Pass, Sichuan

Xinduqiao, known as the "Photography Paradise"

Attractions

4 Places

Transportation

Coach

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

standard room in Yajiang County

After breakfast, your group will depart from Yajiang to Litang. Along the way, enjoy the steepness of the "Heavenly Road with Eighteen Bends," pass through the "Scissor Bend Tunnel," and then cross the "Kazi La Mountain" (with a pass altitude of 4,718 meters). Finally, arrive in Litang, the hometown of Ding Zhen. The scenery here is incredibly beautiful, and the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso, once expressed his longing for Litang in his poetry.

You will visit Letong Ancient Town, known as "Letong" in Tibetan, situated in the old town area of Litang County. It appeared in the promotional video of "Ding Zhen's World" in Litang. This is the largest traditional Tibetan village complex in the world, with over 13 Tibetan villages and more than 4,000 traditional Tibetan houses. It is the perfect choice for exploring Tibetan culture and experiencing the Khampa style. Here, we can follow the guidance of the tour guide and visit the following attractions in sequence: the "318 Memory Museum," the "Khampa People Museum," the "Renkang Ancient House (birthplace of thirteen esteemed living Buddhas)," and the "Tsangyang Gyatso Museum".

Later, be followed a visit to Litang Monastery, also known as Changqingchun Ke'er Monastery, founded in 1580 by the Third Dalai Lama, Sonam Gyatso. It is a significant Yellow Sect Tibetan Buddhist temple renowned as one of the most important temples in the Kham Tibetan region, holding great historical and cultural significance. The monastery serves as both a religious center and a repository of art and culture. Within its premises, you will discover a wealth of Buddhist scriptures, gilded Bodhisattva statues, precious artifacts, and renowned butter sculptures. Please note that there may be occasions when the temple is not accessible to all visitors or foreign tourists due to important religious ceremonies or other reasons. We kindly ask for your understanding in such cases.

After the visit, you will continue your journey, crossing the boundless Wu Liang River and ascending the "Rabbit-shaped Mountain" (with a pass altitude of 4,696 meters). You will pass by the largest ancient glacier site on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, the Daocheng Ancient Ice Cap, located in the Haizi Mountain Nature Reserve (at an altitude of 4,500 meters). It is classified as a wetland and wildlife protection area, specifically safeguarding high-altitude wetlands and musk deer species. Haizi Mountain features a unique landscape characterized by gravel rivers, stone seas, and variously shaped glacial lakes (known as "haizi"). There are 1,145 haizi of different sizes scattered throughout the mountains, sparkling like thousands of shining diamonds.

Afterwards, you will pass through the town of Sangdui, where during the golden autumn season, you can witness the enchanting beauty of the "Sangdui Red Grassland." When a beautiful "White Pagoda" comes into view, you will have arrived in Daocheng.

Daocheng White Pagoda, also known as the White Pagoda Temple, is the largest white pagoda in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The pure square layout forms the base of the Daocheng White Pagoda. The pagoda is divided into three parts: the spire, the body, and the pedestal. The pedestal is adorned with rows of prayer wheels for devout Tibetans to worship. The body of the pagoda is divided into three sections, with the top section housing a statue of a bodhisattva. The main structure of the white pagoda is a grand tower that reaches a height of 37 meters. The bottom three layers of the pagoda's pedestal are constructed in proportion to the base of the Qiniandian Hall in the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. These three layers of the pagoda feature a total of 512 brass prayer wheels and several stone relief decorations.

You will stay overnight in Daocheng County.

Important Notes:

• Today's itinerary will take us to high-altitude areas, where we will cross four mountains with altitudes of over 4,000 meters. To prevent altitude sickness, our company provides portable oxygen for emergency use.
• The Sangdui Red Grassland is seasonal and cannot be seen all year round. Its peak season lasts for only about two weeks from late September to late October each year.

Letong Ancient Town, Sichuan

Litang Monastery, Sichuan

Haizi Mountain Scenic Area, Daocheng

Daocheng White Pagoda

Attractions

4 Sites

Transportation

Coach

Dining

Breakfast,Lunch

Accommodation

standard room in Daocheng County

Today, you will embark on a journey from Daocheng County to Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve, a distance of 80km that will take approximately 2-2.5 hours. This reserve has been hailed as the "Last Pure Land on Earth," discovered by Joseph Rock in 1928, and widely regarded as the "Soul of Shangri-La", an enchanting wonderland.

You will explore the short route of Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve (Tourist Bus Terminus: Zhaguanbeng → Chonggu Monastery → Chonggu Grassland → Pearl Sea). The round trip for the short route is approximately 3 kilometers, taking around 2-3 hours.

Here is the detailed itinerary:

Visit Chonggu Monastery, following the same route as Day 4, by taking the sightseeing bus and hiking. Take some time to appreciate the sacred Gelug Buddhist temple architecture in white, red, yellow, and black, and learn the interesting story behind the temple and Joseph Rock's visit. Capture excellent photos of the magnificent temple and the three pure white holy snow mountains. After a short walk, experience the beauty of Chonggu Grassland(4,020m), which can be compared to a fairyland on earth. Walk on the vast grassland resembling a soft, thick carpet in yellow and green, regardless of the season. Enjoy the enchanting chanting river, with its transparent water revealing countless little stones resembling grains of gold at the bottom. Don't miss the best viewpoint to admire the majestic Xianuoduoji snow mountain. Continue hiking for 30 minutes to reach Pearl Lake(4,120m), a captivating spot to admire the picturesque landscape of surrounding snow peaks, dense green and orange forests, shimmering prayer flags, and their reflection on the clear lake. It's also an ideal location to appreciate the sacred Xiannairi snow mountain.

After the sightseeing, you will return back to Yading Village for accommodation. If the weather is clear, you can enjoy the magnificent "Plateau Starry Sky" in the evening.

Important Notes:

(1) Today, we will transfer to a sightseeing vehicle to travel to the Yading Scenic Area. The vehicle and driver cannot enter the scenic area with the team members. We will stay overnight in Yading Village, where the weather can be unpredictable. It is recommended that team members keep their suitcases in the vehicle and bring a small backpack (containing necessary toiletries, warm clothing, valuable items, rain gear, etc.) into the scenic area.

(2) Accommodation in Yading Village is relatively basic and the facilities are quite primitive. The lodging facilities are converted from local houses and serve as tourist reception points. Please be mentally prepared for this and appreciate the simplicity and originality of the place. Seasonal water and power outages may occur, which are unavoidable. Please prepare a flashlight in advance.

(3) There are limited restaurants specifically operated within the Yading Scenic Area. Team members can dine at the accommodation or at the Luorong Cattle Farm Restaurant within the scenic area. However, since all supplies need to be transported from outside the area, it is advisable to make sufficient preparations in advance. During the National Day and autumn season, there may be traffic congestion or long waiting times within the scenic area. Arriving at the dining point may be delayed, so it is recommended to bring some snacks and chocolates to satisfy hunger.

(4) On the way to trek to Zhoma La Tso (Pearl Lake), there are many small animals. Please do not tease or play with them, as these animals can be harmful. There are no vaccines available, so please prioritize your safety.

(5) The itinerary for the day is as follows: Visitor Center ~ Scenic Area Sightseeing Vehicle ~ Yading Village ~ Scenic Area Shuttle/ Sightseeing Vehicle 3.4km ~ Zhaguanbeng ~ 0.5km trek ~ Chonggu Temple ~ 1.5km trek ~ Zhoma La Tso (Pearl Lake) ~ Xianairi Shen Mountain ~ Return to Yading Village along the same route.

(6) Travel photography is a complimentary service. If it cannot be provided due to weather conditions or personal reasons, no refund will be given. We appreciate your understanding.

Three Holy Mountains of Yading

Luorong Pasture, Daocheng Yading

Attractions

1 Site

Transportation

Coach

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

standard room at the hostel in Yading Village

After breakfast, you will first reach the tourist center from Yading Village. Then, board a sightseeing bus that will transport you to Zhaguanbeng in about 1-1.5 hours. From there, indulge in a 2-2.5 hours' hike to Luorong Pasture (4,150m), passing through Chonggu Monastery (3,900m). Alternatively, you can choose to walk for 20 minutes to Chonggu Monastery and then take a 0.5-hour battery car ride to Luorong Pasture if you prefer to conserve energy. At Luorong Pasture, take pleasure in leisurely strolling amidst the serene landscape, surrounded by carefree grazing cattle and goats, vibrant layers of alpine forest, and a crystal-clear winding stream. The scene is enhanced by the awe-inspiring presence of three sacred snow-capped mountains: Xiannairi (Mount Chianrezig), Yangmaiyong (Mount Jambeyang), and Xianuoduoji (Mount Chanadorje). Pay close attention to the majestic appearance of Xianuoduoji snow mountain, resembling a mighty figure.

Next, prepare yourself for a challenging 5km hike that will take approximately 3-3.5 hours to reach the magnificent Milk Lake (4,600m). If desired, horse riding is available to Milk Lake for an additional fee. Marvel at the enchanting allure of this sacred lake, akin to a precious blue gem capable of evoking tears. Then, continue your journey by walking for another 0.5 hour to visit the Five Color Lake (4,500m), located just 0.3 km away. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery, featuring majestic snow-capped mountains adorned in shades of white, grey, silver, and chocolate, alongside the mesmerizing blue and green waters, diverse alpine plant life, and a backdrop of clear skies. This sight is reminiscent of a world-class oil painting.

After the sightseeing, you will take a sightseeing vehicle out of the scenic area and gather at around 16:00 at the Yading Visitor Center. Leave Daocheng and proceed to Xiangcheng for accommodation.

Important Travel Tips:

1. On that day, please return to the Yading Visitor Center and gather at the agreed time with the team leader or driver, no later than 16:00 in the afternoon. If you are late due to your own reasons, please take a taxi to Xiangcheng on your own. We appreciate your understanding.
2. Chonggu Temple to Luorong Cattle Farm: There are five stations in total: starting point (Chonggu Temple Station), Station 1 (Qianfo Mountain Station), Station 2 (Shengshui Lake Station), Station 3 (Yangmai Yong Station), and end point (Luorong Cattle Farm Station). The round-trip ticket for the shuttle bus is 70 yuan, and the one-way ticket is 40 yuan. The interval ticket for each station is 10 yuan (hiking is optional, and guests can choose to do it at their own expense).
3. Disclaimer: The attractions of Wuse Hai (Five-color Lake) and Nai Nai Hai (Milk Lake) are not included in the regular itinerary of the travel agency. If you want to visit these two attractions, the expenses and safety will be your own responsibility, and you assume the risks.
4. There are two ways to get from Luorong Cattle Farm to Nai Nai Hai and Wuse Hai. One way is to hike on the horse path, which takes about 5-6 hours round trip and covers a distance of 10 kilometers. The other way is to ride a horse, which takes about 3 hours uphill (horse riding fee is self-funded, 300 yuan per person for one way, the horse caravan operates for a total of 3.5 kilometers from Luorong Cattle Farm to the destination). When riding a horse, please pay attention to safety and ensure that the horse is led by the horseman. From the horse caravan's destination to Nai Nai Hai (4,600 meters) and Wuse Hai (4,700 meters), there is a 1.8-kilometer trekking section that is quite rugged. It requires a higher level of physical fitness from visitors. Additionally, the altitude is high, temperatures are lower, and there are strong mountain winds, so bring sufficient clothing.
5. The itinerary for the day is as follows: Yading Village ~ Scenic Area Shuttle/ Sightseeing Vehicle 3.4km ~ Zhaguanbeng ~ 0.5km trek ~ Chonggu Temple ~ 6.7km by shuttle bus ~ Luorong Cattle Farm (Sanhu Main Snow Mountain) ~ Horse riding/ trekking 3.5km ~ Horse caravan's destination ~ Trek to Nai Nai Hai and Wuse Hai ~ Return to Yading Village to collect luggage ~ Take a sightseeing vehicle out of the scenic area.
6. Regarding visitor flow control in the Daocheng Yading Scenic Area:**To avoid excessive crowds, the maximum capacity of the Daocheng Yading Scenic Area is 16,850 people, with a visitor capacity of 3,900 people in the Nai Nai Hai and Wuse Hai areas. We will make advance reservations for your entrance tickets. If there are too many reservations during peak seasons and you are unable to visit Nai Nai Hai and Wuse Hai, we will adjust the itinerary accordingly based on the actual situation.

Chonggu Monastery of Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve

Lake View of Daocheng Yading

Attractions

3 Places

Transportation

Coach

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

standard room at the hotel in Xiangcheng County

In the morning, your group will depart from Xiangcheng County and drive to Deqin in Yunnan Province, visiting some stunning attractions along the way.

Your first stop will be Zhongde Village. Located east of Daocheng, bordering Litang to the north, and connected to Shangri-La in the south, Zhongde Village is a small town adorned with scattered white Tibetan houses. It has also served as a filming location for the movie "I Belonged to You."

The second stop will be Benzilan Town, which in Tibetan means "beautiful sandbar." Benzilan Town is situated in Deqin County, part of the Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province. It is nestled at the base of majestic snow-capped mountains, on the western bank of the Jinsha River, and intersected by National Highway 214. This village lies along an important transportation route known as the ancient road from Gutao to Duzi, a crucial segment of the historic Tea Horse Ancient Road. The location is truly unique, as the Jinsha River roars and rushes with great turbulence in the upper Benzilan section, while the lower section of the river widens, and its waters become calm and serene. We accessed Zhongde Village by taking the S217 provincial highway and continuing onto National Highway G214 (North Dian-Zang Highway).

Next, you will visit the Great Bend of the Jinsha River, located approximately 15 kilometers from Benzilan Town in Deqin, at the border of Sichuan and Yunnan Province. The Jinsha River, flowing through mountains and valleys, carries mighty currents. As it reaches this point, the gorge gradually opens up. It seems to pause and slow down, as if wanting to ease the fatigue of its long journey. Gracefully tracing a large bend in the shape of the Greek letter "Ω" around the pyramid-like Ricon Peak, this winding path extends for several dozen kilometers, creating a remarkable natural spectacle.

Afterward, you will drive to the Feilai Temple Scenic Area in Meili Snow Mountain and check into your hotel for some rest. Meili Snow Mountain, also known as Prince Snow Mountain, is one of the most sacred mountains in Tibetan Buddhism. It boasts 13 magnificent peaks standing over 6,000 meters in altitude, earning the name "Prince's 13 Peaks." The highest peak, Kawagebo, rises approximately 6,740 meters, making Meili Snow Mountain the highest mountain in Yunnan.

Feilai Temple, located along the Dian-Zang Highway, is renowned for its exceptional position as a prime viewpoint for admiring Kawa Garbo Peak. Visitors can gaze upon the snow-capped mountains from Feilai Temple. If the weather is clear, one can witness the golden sunrise and capture images of the thirteen peaks of the Meili Mountain Range. Please note that photography is subject to weather conditions, and it is normal if one is unable to capture the desired shots. Your understanding is appreciated.

Important Travel Tips:

(1) The First Bend of the Jinsha River is right by the road. There is an entrance fee of 30 yuan per person if you want to visit the observation deck. It is optional, and the cost is self-funded.

(2) As for photographing the sunrise on the Meili Snow Mountain and the thirteen peaks of Meili, it depends on the time of arrival, weather conditions, and climate. It is indeed very fortunate if you are able to capture them. However, it is also normal if you are unable to do so.

First Bend of the Jinsha River, Yunnan

Feilai Temple Scenic Area, best spot to view Meili Snow Mountain

Attractions

4 Places

Transportation

Coach

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

standard room at the hotel of Feilai Temple

This morning, try to wake up early and capture the incredible scene of the golden sunrise shining upon the dramatic snow-capped peaks from the Feilaisi Observation Deck (3,470 meters). (For reference, sunrise times are approximately 06:40-07:40 in spring, 06:25-06:45 in summer, 07:00-07:30 in autumn, and 07:55-08:10 in winter.)

After enjoying the beautiful time in Deqin, drive to the Yanjing Scenic Area while en route to Mangkang County. The ancient salt fields of Mangkang Salt Wells have a history of 1,300 years and are the only place in China that maintains the original traditional method of handcrafted salt drying. They are located over 120 kilometers away from Mangkang County, at an altitude of around 2,300 meters. Salt production is the livelihood of the people in the salt wells. There are a total of 3,454 salt fields, and the method of salt production here is the only one of its kind in the world, the oldest and most primitive. Pipes are used to bring brine up and pour it onto the salt fields. After intense exposure to sunlight, the water gradually evaporates, leaving behind salt crystals. The salt wells are also a place of geomantic significance, nestled in the embrace of the mountain gods. Throughout history, they have served as important transportation hubs. In the past, they were vital relay stations along the ancient Tea Horse Road, and now they are a must-pass route for National Highway 214, serving as a hub for various goods throughout the ages.

Later, drive through Hongla Mountain and the Yunnan Golden Monkey Nature Reserve to reach Mangkang. Mangkang is located in the easternmost part of Chamdo City in Tibet and sits at the junction of Sichuan, Yunnan, and Tibet provinces. Entering Mangkang today signifies entering the territory of Tibet officially. Additionally, our itinerary transitions from the G214 National Highway (North Dian-Zang Highway) to the G318 National Highway (South Sichuan-Tibet Highway).

Upon arrival in Mangkang, you will check in for the night.

Important Reminder:

1. Photography enthusiasts can wake up early for morning shots of the snow-capped mountains. It is advisable to set up tripods in advance. If the weather and luck are favorable, it is possible to see the thirteen peaks lined up as dawn breaks.
2. If the Day 6 itinerary does not include an overnight stay at Feilai Temple due to scheduling reasons, the morning photography session can be adjusted to the morning. Specific accommodation arrangements will depend on the circumstances.
3. Lunch will include a complimentary serving of Yanjing Jiajia noodles. The Jiajia noodles are part of a fixed meal, so if team members order additional beverages, dishes, etc., please willingly cover the extra costs.
4. Entering Mangkang means officially entering the territory of Tibet. The guide needs to carry the necessary documentation for entry into Tibet and complete the registration process in Mangkang County.

Kawagebo Peak, Meili Snow Mountain

Yanjing Scenic Area, Mangkang, Tibet

Attractions

3 Places

Transportation

Coach

Dining

Breakfast,Lunch

Accommodation

Standard hotel in Markam County

After breakfast, you will depart from Mangkang and pass through Chagyab County to reach Chamdo, known as the "Pearl of Eastern Tibet". You will continue driving along G317 for about one and a half hours, and then take a right turn onto the Y507, a scenic road with fewer people. Just one fork in the road separates the Sichuan-Tibet Highway and this rural road into two completely different worlds - one bustling with traffic, the other seldom visited by people.

You will follow the emerald green Zhaqu River, enjoying the beautiful canyon scenery. Along the way, you will pass by a mountain peak resembling a palm, known locally as "Palm Mountain." Interested team members can pause and take a photo with it. We will continue our journey, exploring and playing along the road until we reach Gamagou Valley around dinner time. A delicious Tibetan meal will be served for dinner, and afterwards, we will gather around a bonfire under the starry sky to dance and celebrate. Surely, a night like this will be unforgettable for a lifetime!

Important Reminder:

(1) Due to special reasons such as rain or other factors, if we are unable to experience horseback riding or hold a bonfire party, we will cancel this activity. We apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding!

(2) The accommodations in Gama Gou are all tourist reception points converted from residential houses. Please be prepared for this arrangement.

Sichuan-Tibet overland tour passes through Mangkang County

Chamdo Gamagou, Tibet

Attractions

1 Site

Transportation

Coach

Dining

Breakfast,Dinner

Accommodation

Hostel or Camping of Gamagou

Chamdo Gama Gou, this lesser-known hidden gem in eastern Tibet, has been visited by only 0.1% of tourists. Due to historical circumstances, Gama Gou is home to a large number of artisans and descendants of craftsmen from Nepal, India, Sikkim, Lhasa, and mainland China. Therefore, it is renowned as the "Land of Artisans" and the "Land of Thangkas." We have specially invited experienced thangka painters to teach everyone how to create their own thangkas, preserving the essence of Tibetan culture.

Afterward, in the picturesque pasture, you can experience activities such as horseback riding and playing "Urdou," which are beloved by the Tibetan people. Leaving Gama Gou at the appropriate time, crossing the Zhujiao La Mountain, we will visit the "Enda Battle Site" in Enda Village, Bindang Township. After exploring the site, we will continue our journey and cross the Shegala Mountain Pass (at an altitude of 4,652 meters) to reach the "Colorful Sacred Place," Nechammani Tui. Nechammani Tui is said to be one of the oldest and largest mani piles on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Tibetan people passing through this place offer stone blocks engraved with Buddhist scriptures and images, which have been passed down through generations, resulting in the formation of enormous mani stone piles.

After the visiting, head to Dingqing (Dengqen) County for accommodation.

Chamdo, Tibet

Zizhu Temple sits on Zizhu Mountain, Tibet

Attractions

2 sites

Transportation

Coach

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

Standard room of the hotel in Dengqen County

After breakfast, we will proceed to Zizhu Temple, located on the Zizhu Mountain in Jue'en Township, Dingqing County, Chamdo, Tibet. It is approximately 37 kilometers away from the county town. The temple is surrounded by towering peaks, steep cliffs, and peculiar rocks. Numerous Zen temples are stacked together, resembling a tranquil city in the sky that has stood here for thousands of years. It is an important site for studying the ancient Bon religion of the Tibetan people.

After exploring and capturing photographs, we will leave Dingqing and pass through the Xie La Mountain Tunnel. On clear weather days, you can enjoy a distant view of the Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains. Continuing our journey, we will arrive at Baqen County for accommodation.

Zizhu Temple, at an altitude of about 4,800 meters

Zizhu Temple, an important temple of the Yongzhong Bon religion

Attractions

3 Places

Transportation

Coach

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

Standard room of the hotel in Baqen County

After breakfast, we will continue driving for about 30 kilometers and cross a vast grassland to reach Suoxian County. The renowned Zandan Temple, also known as the "Little Potala Palace", is located here and can be seen on the roadside, approximately 1 kilometer from Suoxian. The entire Zandan Temple is built against the mountainside and is divided into two architectural complexes, the red and white buildings. From a distance, it bears a striking resemblance to the Potala Palace. It is the oldest Gelugpa monastery in northern Tibet and the largest Buddhist ancient architectural complex in the region. The temple houses a large collection of murals and Tibetan scriptures, possessing significant historical and artistic value.

Continuing our journey, we will enjoy the scenery of the northern Tibetan grasslands along the way - endless blue skies, herds of cattle and sheep, swaying wildflowers, colorful prayer flags - the beauty is beyond words. We will spend the night in Damxung.

Northern Tibetan grasslands scenery in Tibet

Beautiful northern grassland scene in Tibet

Attractions

1 site

Transportation

Coach

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

Standard room of the hotel in Damxung County

After breakfast, you will depart from Damxung with 8km drive to Namsto Lake. With the backdrop of the scenic area entrance, take a tourist photo to prove that you have been here. After passing through the entrance gate, the ascent of Nagenla Mountain begins. It is still 60 kilometers away from Namtso Lake. Once you cross Nagenla Mountain, you will catch a glimpse of the enchanting Namtso Lake. The lake's water is clear and transparent, presenting a sky-blue color. In the Tibetan language, Namtso means "Heavenly Lake", and it is one of the "Three Holy Lakes" of Tibet.

After exploring Namtso Lake, we will head to Lhasa. Upon checking into the hotel, the beautiful journey through Sichuan and Tibet comes to an end. You will have free time to wander the streets of Lhasa, amidst numerous Chinese and foreign tourists, pilgrims, travelers, people of different skin tones, experiencing the unique atmosphere that Lhasa offers. For photography enthusiasts, you can capture images of the Potala Palace, with the palace square and the Yaowang Mountain viewpoint being the best spots to photograph the palace at night.

Important Reminder:

(1) The estimated arrival time in Lhasa is between 17:00-18:00 in the afternoon. It is recommended to book your onward transportation for the following day. If you must depart on the same day, please make sure to book transportation after 21:00 to avoid any disruption to your itinerary.

(2) The accommodation in Lhasa for tonight is complimentary, and there will be no refund if you choose not to stay. Once you have received your room, the entire itinerary will be successfully completed. Wishing all friends a prosperous journey. After completing the tour, please prioritize your safety, and we look forward to seeing you again next time!

[Ticket Discount Information]: If you hold special documents such as a senior citizen card, military officer card, soldier card, disability card, student card, national journalist card, etc., please present them to the team leader before purchasing tickets. According to local policies, relevant fees may be reduced or waived, and any applicable discounts will be refunded on-site. For all departing groups, it is necessary to purchase tickets online in advance. Please inform the customer service representative during registration if you have any valid documents for ticket discounts, so that they can assist with online ticket purchases.

Our Guests Took a Photo with a Yak

Our Guests Visited Namtso Lake in Tibet

Namtso Lake, Tranquil Holy Lake in Tibet

Riding a Horse along Namtso Lake

Attractions

1 site

Transportation

Coach

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

Standard hotel in downtown Lhasa

It is time to end your 13-day Sichuan Yunnan Tibet Tour, and your guide will escort you to the airport/train station for your flight or train to your next destination.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China tour, and we are always here, working for you, and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Have a safe journey!

Lhasa Potala Palace Autumn View

Viewing beautiful Tibet Scenery from the Airplane

Attractions

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Transportation

Coach

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

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