14 Days Ultimate Tibet Group Tour: Mount Kailash, Guge Kingdom & Hidden North

Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region! Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar International Airport or Lhasa Railway Station, our friendly Tibetan guide will greet you with a Hada (a traditional white silk scarf) and warm blessings. (Tip: Please let us know your mode of transportation and arrival time in advance.)

After that, our guide and driver will escort you to your hotel in downtown Lhasa. (Tip: The airport is located about 60 km southeast of the city, 1-1.5 hours’ drive.)

After check-in, take the rest of the day to relax and acclimatize to Lhasa’s high altitude (3,650 m). It’s important to allow your body to adjust before beginning your exciting journey through Tibet.

Helpful Reminders for Your First Day in Lhasa

• Take a good rest and stay calm.This is the best way to prevent altitude sickness.
• Avoid strenuous activity and you’d betternot take a shower on the first night to prevent catching a cold.
• Do not drink alcohol. Instead, drink plenty of water, eat fruits, and avoid heavy meals.
• If you wish, you can prepare herbal or oxygen supplements such as Rhodiola, American ginseng lozenges, or Gaoyuan’anto help with adaptation.
• Always follow the advice of your local guide. If you feel unwell, inform your guide and seek medical attention promptly.

Lhasa Gonggar International Airport

Welcome Our Dear Guests at Lhasa Airport

Qinghai Tibet Railway

Welcome Our Dear Guests with Hada at Lhasa Train Station

Attractions

Have a good rest, get used to the altitude

Transportation

Arrive in Lhasa by yourself; pick-up service while in Lhasa

Dining

None

Accommodation

Standard Hotel in downtown 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.

This morning, you’ll first explore Potala Palace. This is the most iconic landmark of Tibet and the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas (1649-1959).

After climbing 365 stone steps from the palace gate to the Red Palace, you’ll reach the highest ancient palace in the world - standing proudly at 3,700 meters above sea level - and enjoy stunning panoramic view of Lhasa city.

As you wander through the halls, chapels, and sacred shrines that honor past Dalai Lamas, you’ll be captivated by the intricate murals, exquisite carvings, dazzling jeweled decorations, and the deep spiritual atmosphere that fills the air. Inside the Potala Palace, countless Tibetan pilgrims can be seen bowing and praying devoutly - for many, visiting this sacred site is the journey of a lifetime.

Your guide will also share fascinating stories about King Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd ruler of Tibet, who originally built the Potala Palace in the 7th century to honor his marriage to Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty.

Potala Palace Visiting Tips:

• All visitors must enter as part of a guided group and can stay inside for a maximum of one hour.
• Tickets are issued under a real-name reservation system. A valid ID or passport is required, and once reserved, rebooking is not allowed within 7 days.
• Entry times are assigned randomly by the Potala Palace Administration, and it’s not possible to choose your visiting hour.
• During peak season, your travel group may be split into smaller sub-groupswith different visiting times or guides.
• Photography is strictly prohibited inside the palace.

We will take you to fully immerse yourself in experiencing traditional Tibetan handcraft Center, including making Tibetan incense, woodblock printing and learning about the Tibetan language. While learning about how the refreshing Tibetan incense is made, you can also participate in making it with your own hands, which is of quite different significance from the purchased Tibetan incense. Knowledgeable teachers will introduce to you the origin of the Tibetan language and help you write Tibetan blessings or your own Tibetan name. Meanwhile, you can also experience the traditional woodblock printing. The incense, printed words and Tibetan calligraphy can all be taken home as souvenirs.

After the visit, step outside to Barkhor Street, once the traditional kora (pilgrimage circuit) around the temple. Today, it’s a lively place filled with the scent of incense and the sounds of chanting pilgrims. You can sip yak butter tea at a teahouse, dress in Tibetan attire for photos, or shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs from Tibet, Nepal, and India.

After the tour, be escorted back to your hotel in Lhasa.

Our Guests at Potala Palace

Travel to Potala Palace with AOT

Make Tibetan Incense

Tibetan Calligraphy & Block Printing, Lhasa

Attractions

3 Iconic Sites

Transportation

Tourist Vehicle

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

Standard Hotel in downtown Lhasa

Today, you’ll embark on a scenic drive from Lhasa to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. The journey covers around 370 kilometers and takes 7 hours’ drive, with stops to admire two of Tibet’s most spectacular natural wonders - Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier.

In the morning, after about 2-3 hours of driving (110 km), get your camera ready as you approach Kampala Pass (4,797 m). Here, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Yamdrok Lake, a turquoise ribbon shimmering among snow-capped mountains. Known as one of Tibet’s four sacred lakes (along with Lhamo Latso, Manasarovar, and Namtso), Yamdrok is believed to hold spiritual power - helping Tibetans locate the reincarnated soul of the Dalai Lama. You’ll also see locals offering photo opportunities with Tibetan mastiffs, yaks, or goats dressed in traditional ornaments.

In the afternoon, continue driving for about 1.5 hours (87 km) to reach the stunning Karola Glacier (5,012 m) - one of Tibet’s three major continental glaciers and a filming site of the movie Red Valley (Hong He Gu). Backed by Naiqin Kangsang Peak (7,191 m), the glacier gleams like a frozen waterfall cascading right beside the highway. You can enjoy the view from your vehicle or take a short, easy walk to the glacier’s base. Across the road, admire the majestic snow-capped Mount Kalurong - another highlight of this alpine wonderland.

Tips for visiting Karola Glacier:

• The alitude here is about 5,012 meters, so move slowly and avoid overexertion.
• The public toilets are very basic -be prepared.
• Some locals may charge a small fee for taking photos with them or their animals -always confirm before photographing.

Afterward, drive about 3.5 hours (170 km) through Gyantse, aalong the wide Nianchu River Valley, passing through scenic Tibetan villages, vast barley fields, and golden rapeseed flower fields (in summer). Upon arrival in Shigatse (altitude: 3845 meters), check into your hotel and rest well.

Warm Reminder:

For foreign and Taiwan travelers, registration at the Shigatse Entry & Exit Administration Office is required. Your guide will assist with the process and may adjust the schedule accordingly - please follow their instructions and cooperate as needed.

A Large Group of Our Guests Visited Yamdrok Lake

Yamdrok Lake Summer View

Amazing Glacier at Karora

Our Guests Visited Karora Glacier

Attractions

2 Sites

Transportation

Tourist Vehicle

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

Standard Hotel in Shigatse city

After breakfast, your group will leave Shigatse - the cultural heart of western Tibet - and set out on a long but scenic drive westward to Saga Town (about 450 km, about 8 hours).

As you leave the bustling city behind, your journey heads west along the Nyanchu River Valley, historically known as the Breadbasket of Tibet. Along the way, you’ll pass through vast farmlands where barley and rapeseed flowers sway gently in the breeze, reflecting Shigatse’s long-standing reputation as the region’s granary.

Gradually, the fertile valley opens into the wide, wild beauty of the western plateau. On the way, make a stop in Sangsang Town to visit the stunning Sangsang Grassland (altitude: 4,567 meters). Here, you will encounter a vast green sea in summer. The fields bloom with purple pedicularis and yellow Galsang flowers, while herds of yaks and Tibetan sheep graze freely like stars scattered across a green carpet. Overhead, eagles circle gracefully, and the wind carries the scent of wild grass. This pure, untamed life of the Tibetan plateau will simply amaze you.

After the visit, your group will continue the drive, heading westward to Saga Town. Out of your window, you will see the distinctive landscape of alpine meadows and arid grasslands. You will also have the opportunity to gaze upon the northern peaks of the Himalayan mountain range in the distance.

You will arrive in Saga Town (altitude: 4640 meters) in the late afternoon and check into your hotel.

Sangsang Grassland, Tibet

Sangsang Grassland, Tibet

Attractions

1 site

Transportation

Coach

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

Saga town or Zhongba

After breakfast, your group will set out along the G219 Highway. Enjoy the drivie from Saga Town toward Darchen, the gateway to Mount Kailash. It is never boring on road, changing landscapes, Tibetan villages and farmlands, holy mountains and lakes.

As you leave Saga behind, the road gradually ascends along the northern foothills of the Himalayas, where the landscape unfolds in layers of color and texture. In Zhongba, small Tibetan villages appear like splashes of color against the edge of the desert, fluttering prayer flags dancing in the wind. You’ll pass through a vast dune belt (Zhongba Colorful Desert) - its sands tinted red, yellow, and white by rich minerals. Under the bright plateau sun, the dunes shimmer like silk against the distant backdrop of snowcapped mountains and winding rivers - a true visual feast.

Continuing westward, you’ll cross the shores of Lake Gongzhucuo, whose deep sapphire waters mirror the majestic Gangdise Mountains beyond. The scene feels both tranquil and otherworldly.

Soon after, you’ll reach one of the most sacred and breathtaking moments of your Tibetan journey: the sudden appearance of Lake Manasarovar and the legendary Mount Kailash. Rising high above the surrounding peaks, Mount Kailash’s perfectly symmetrical snow-covered cone forms a divine tableau with the shimmering lake below. Revered by Buddhism, Hinduism, Bon, and Jainism, Lake Manasarovar is believed to be the source of four of Asia’s great rivers - the Yarlung Tsangpo, Indus, Sutlej, and Karnali. Along the lakeshore, you may see pilgrims walking clockwise around the holy lake, spinning prayer wheels and chanting softly as they etch their devotion into every Mani stone along the way.

By late afternoon, arrive at Darchen Town (altitude: 4670 meters). This is the base and starting point for the Mount Kailash Kora (pilgrimage circuit). Check into your hotel and rest well in preparation for the next spirtual circuit.

Zhongba Colorful Desert

Gongzhucuo Lake, Tibet

A Holy Pilgrimage Site

Stand by Lake Manasarovar in the Late Afternoon

Attractions

3 Sites

Transportation

Tourist Vehicle

Dining

None

Accommodation

Darchen town

Mount Kailash, is a towering peak that rises to 6,638 meters and dominates the landscape of Western Tibet. Revered by four major religions - Tibetan Buddhism, Hinduism, Bon, and Jainism, this holy mountain is considered the spiritual center of the world. In Tibetan Buddhism, it is believed to be the abode of Demchok, the deity symbolizing supreme bliss. Each year, countless pilgrims make the arduous journey here to walk the 52-kilometer kora (circumambulation) around the sacred mountain, a deeply spiritual act believed to cleanse one’s sins and bring enlightenment.

Day One Trek: Darchen - Tarboche - Dira-puk Monastery

This morning, your group will take a short sightseeing bus ride from Darchen Town to Tarboche (Prayer Flag Square, 6km from the town). This is the official starting point of the kora and one of the most sacred ritual sites in Tibet. Every year during the Saga Dawa Festival ("Fourth Month" in the Tibetan calendar), hundreds of pilgrims gather here to raise the towering flagpole adorned with prayer flags, celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha Sakyamuni.

Now, begin your first day of trekking, following the Lha Chu River valley westward. The route is graced by blue skies, snow-capped peaks, and slopes dotted with mani stones engraved with sacred mantras. Along the way, you’ll see Tibetan pilgrims performing prostrations as they slowly make their way around the mountain - a moving testament to faith and devotion. This section is both physically demanding and spiritually rewarding, offering magnificent views of Mount Kailash’s western and northern faces.

As you venture deeper into the valley, the north face of Mount Kailash gradually reveals itself in full grandeur, an awe-inspiring sight that few places on Earth can rival. After trekking about 14 kilometers, you’ll arrive at Dira-puk Monastery, your destination for the day. This monastery, belonging to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism, sits directly opposite the north face of Mount Kailash, providing an unparalleled view of the sacred mountain.

You will spend the night in a local guesthouse near Dira-puk Monastery.

Travel Notes:

1. Local Tibetans around Mount Kailash offer optional services such as horse or yak rides, and luggage transportby yaks or porters (not included in the tour price).
2. During the kora, accommodation is very basic, typically in shared guesthouses or tents at Dira-pukand Dzultripuk, with limited facilities (multi-bed rooms, shared toilets, one bed per traveler).

Sacred Mountain Mount Kailash

Saga Dawa Festival at Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash Trekking

Pay a Spiritual Pilgrimage to Mount Kailash

Attractions

2 sites

Transportation

Trekking

Dining

None

Accommodation

Driapuk Monastery Guesthouse

Start your trekking early in this morning. Today marks the most challenging and spiritually significant day of your Mount Kailash Kora. The trail leads you on a strenuous ascent of more than 550 meters to the sacred Drolma-la Pass (5,650m) - the highest point of the entire circuit.

This demanding section tests both body and spirit. According to Tibetan Buddhist belief, successfully crossing the Drolma-la Pass symbolizes the purification of one’s sins from a lifetime. Despite the thin air and rugged terrain, pilgrims consider this moment a deep act of faith and renewal.

At the summit, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking sight - thousands of colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, blanketing the pass in a sea of sacred colors. Many pilgrims pause here to rest, pray, and add their own mani stones to the growing piles of devotion.

The descent that follows is steep and rocky, leading into the Lhachu Valley. Along the way lies the shimmering Gauri Kund, a glacial lake revered in Hinduism as the bathing place of Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. Its jade-like waters glisten serenely beneath the towering peaks.

After a short rest, continue your trek for another four hours along the riverbank until you reach Dzultripuk Monastery (4,810m), known as the “Miracle Cave of Milarepa.” This sacred monastery, belonging to the Sakya sect, holds ancient murals, scriptures, and legends of the great yogi Milarepa.

Spend the evening resting at the guesthouse near Zutul-Puk. Have a good rest and prepare for the final leg of the Kora tomorrow.

Memorable Mount Kailash Trekking Experience

Mount Kailash Trek, Tibet

Mount Kailash Trekking on Stone Path

Mount Kailash Trek on Stone Path

Attractions

3 sites

Transportation

trekking

Dining

None

Accommodation

Zutul-Puk Monastery guest house

Today marks the final leg of your Mount Kailash Kora - a day of completion and quiet reflection. After breakfast, you will leave Dzultripuk Monastery, and begin a gentle descent as the altitude gradually lowers. The stark white of the high mountain snows slowly gives way to vibrant greens of grass and shrubs, signaling your return to the realm of life and movement.

Along the trail, you may spot small animals (like groundhogs) darting among the bushes, while countless mani stones - prayer-carved rocks stacked in colorful mounds - line your path like silent guardians, echoing the devotion of generations of pilgrims. The air feels lighter, and each step brings a sense of relief and fulfillment.

After walking the final 6.6 kilometers, you’ll reach Zongdui, where your Mount Kailash circuit officially comes to an end. Here, you can board the eco-sightseeing bus that will take you back to Darchen Town.

By midday, you’ll arrive in Darchen - tired yet deeply content - having completed one of the world’s most sacred pilgrimages. Yes, you did it! Great job!

In the afternoon, your journey continues toward Zanda, located in the heart of Ngari Prefecture. 230 kilometers, roughly 4.5 hours. As you leave Darchen behind, the rugged landscapes unfold into a mesmerizing panorama of eroded canyons, barren cliffs, and river valleys - a stark yet captivating portrait of Tibet’s remote western frontier.

Upon arrival in Zanda County (altitude: 4500 meters), you’ll find yourself surrounded by an otherworldly terrain carved by wind and water over centuries. This region is not only a geological wonder but also a cultural treasure, home to the legendary Guge Kingdom ruins and the ancient Tholing Monastery, both offering deep insight into Tibet’s forgotten civilizations.

Stay overnight in Zanda.

Trek Mount Kailash in Tibet

Mount Kailash, Tibet

Attractions

1 site

Transportation

trekking, tourist vehicle

Dining

None

Accommodation

Zanda

Today, your group will first enjoy Zanda County, delving into both its ancient history and dramatic landscapes. Begin with a fascinating visit to the Ruins of the Guge Kingdom, one of Tibet’s most mysterious archaeological sites. Flourishing between the 10th and 17th centuries, Guge was once a powerful kingdom that played a vital role in spreading Buddhism across western Tibet. The site features remarkable frescoes, sculptures, and carvings that vividly depict Buddhist teachings, royal life, and historical events. As you explore, you’ll visit the Red Palace, once a major religious center with temples and monks’ quarters, and the White Palace, the royal residence of the Guge kings. The blend of Tibetan, Indian, and Chinese architectural influences is evident in the intricate murals and carvings that still adorn the walls. From the top of the ruins, enjoy a sweeping panoramic view of the entire valley - a breathtaking reminder of the kingdom’s former glory.

Afterward, continue about 20 kilometers to the awe-inspiring Zanda Earth Forest, a geological masterpiece formed by centuries of wind and water erosion. Stretching for over five kilometers along the Elephant Spring River, this surreal landscape of natural sculptures resembles warriors, galloping horses, and meditating monks. The play of light and shadow across the ridges creates endless photo opportunities.

Later, drive another 77 kilometers to the Xiayigou Earth Forest, where layers of soft red and ochre rock glow under the deep blue sky. Take a short hike down into the valley to observe the unique formations up close and capture stunning photos.

After the tour, you will be transferred to your next destination - Shiquanhe Town (altitude 4,255m). This is the capital of Ngari Prefecture, where you’ll check in and rest for the night.

Ruins of the Ancient Guge Kingdom

Marvel at the Magnificent Zanda Earth Forest

the Magnificent Zanda Earth Forest

Xiayigou Earth Forest

Attractions

3 Sites

Transportation

Tourist Vehicle

Dining

None

Accommodation

Shiquanhe Town

After breakfast, bid farewell to Shiquanhe Town as your journey continues east toward Geji Town, tracing one of the most scenic routes in Northern Tibet. The day’s drive is not just a transfer - it’s a visual symphony of shifting landscapes and timeless tranquility.

Leaving the Shiquanhe Basin, the road winds through lush red willow wetlands and scattered oases, where flashes of green bring life to the plateau. Gradually, the scenery transforms into the stark grandeur of the expansive Tibetan high plains, where sky and earth seem to merge in endless silence.

En route, pause at the shimmering Nyer Tso Lake, a saltwater lake edged with brilliant white salt crystals that sparkle like snow under the sun. Here, you’ll feel the quiet majesty of the Tibetan wilderness - its air so pure and its solitude so vast that it feels almost sacred.

Continuing the drive, you’ll reach Yanhu Town, a place where the rhythm of traditional Tibetan life still beats strong. Look out for nomadic tents dotting the horizon, with yaks and sheep grazing freely across the open grasslands. Once a thriving hub of the ancient salt trade, Yanhu’s legacy dates back over a thousand years. Traders once loaded salt onto sheep and yaks along the famous “Salt Sheep Trail,” journeying across the Himalayas to barter for goods in Shigatse, Nepal, and India.

Further along, stop at the Pero Tsetso Viewpoint, where the lake below shifts from turquoise to emerald depending on the light. From this vantage point, you can often spot Tibetan wild asses and antelopes grazing along the lakeshore - a perfect chance for wildlife observation and photography.

Before reaching your destination, you’ll pass by the serene Wuma Tso Lake, its calm waters alive with graceful waterbirds gliding across the surface.

By late afternoon, arrive in Gaize Town (altitude: 4425 meters). Have a good rest tonight.

Nyer Tso Lake, Tibet

Pero Tsetso Viewpoint

Pero Tsetso Viewpoint

Wuma Cuo, Tibet

Attractions

5 Sites

Transportation

Tourist Vehicle

Dining

None

Accommodation

Gaize Town

Today, after breakfast, your journey continues across the boundless expanse of Northern Tibet, a land where nature unfolds in its purest and most awe-inspiring form. As you travel deeper into this remote region, the scenery shifts dramatically - the vast Qiangtang Grassland stretches endlessly before you, merging with the rugged Gobi landscape. Herds of yaks and sheep graze freely under the open sky, while distant snow-capped peaks shimmer like silver ribbons along the horizon.

Your first stop today is Tong Tso Lake, whose name in Tibetan means “Desolate Lake.” Despite its name, the lake’s stillness exudes a unique charm - its tranquil waters mirroring the solitude and serenity of the high plateau.

As you continue your drive, the mountain ranges rise higher and more majestic, forming a breathtaking panorama of snow and sky. The road toward Tangra Yumco (Dangra Yongcuo) is one of the most spectacular in Northern Tibet. In this remote land, it’s not uncommon to encounter herds of Tibetan antelopes and wild donkeys galloping alongside the road - a truly unforgettable sight that brings the wilderness to life.

Gradually, the magnificent Tangra Yumco Lake unfolds before your eyes. Known as the most sacred lake of the Bon religion, Tangra Yumco is often described as the “soul of this route.” The lake stretches more than 70 kilometers from north to south, like a blue silk ribbon laid across the heart of Ngari. Depending on the sunlight, its waters shift through shades of deep and light blue, reflecting the snow-capped peaks of the Dargo Mountains in serene perfection. Take your time to breathe in the quiet beauty and take good photos.

After the sightseeing, be transferred to the nearby Wenbu Nancun Village (altitude: 4700 meters) for your overnight stay. The village is nestled between the mountains and the lakeshore, where earth-toned houses blend harmoniously with the azure lake and red-hued cliffs. Enjoy a quiet night by the lake and have a good sleep.

Tong Tso Lake

Tangra Yumco Lake

Tangra Yumco Lake

Tangra Yumco Lake

Attractions

3 Sites

Transportation

Tourist Vehicle

Dining

None

Accommodation

Wenbu Nancun Village

After breakfast, begin your day in Wenbu Nancun Village, where the serene beauty of the plateau unfolds before you once more. Just north of the village lies Tangqung Co Lake, known as the “sister lake” of Tangra Yumco. Here, you’ll witness a rare natural wonder - the Two-Colored Lake Phenomenon - where the water shifts magically between shades of emerald green and sapphire blue, depending on the angle of the sunlight. Along the lakeshore, herds of yaks graze peacefully, while Tibetan houses and fluttering prayer flags create a picture of harmony between humans and nature.

Continue your drive to one of Northern Tibet’s geological marvels, the “Tree of the Earth.” At first glance, the ground may appear ordinary. But from an aerial view, ancient erosion patterns form the stunning image of a colossal tree, complete with roots, trunk, and branching limbs. This extraordinary sight is a masterpiece sculpted by time, wind, and flowing water, perfectly representing the raw, desolate beauty of the Ngari highlands.

Following the route eastward, you’ll arrive at Selin Co Lake (Serling Tso) - the second-largest lake in Tibet and one of its most mystical. Often called the “Demon Lake”, local legend tells that a fierce spirit once dwelled here until subdued by the great Guru Padmasambhava. Today, the lake lies within the Qiangtang National Nature Reserve, a vast sanctuary of wildlife. Its immense surface stretches like an inland sea, glimmering under the highland sun, while black-necked cranes, Tibetan antelopes, and gazelles can often be seen along its shores.

Your journey continues to Bangkog Co Lake, part of the same lake system as Selin Co. Sitting at an elevation of around 4,693 meters, this saltwater lake mirrors the sky in soft hues of light blue and pale green, blending seamlessly with the surrounding grasslands to create an ethereal landscape.

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Baingoin Town (altitude: 4700 meters). Enjoy a warm and comfortable stay here.

Tangqung Co Lake, Tibet

Tree of the Earth, Tibet

Selin Co Lake, Tibet

Landscape around Lake Selin Co

Attractions

4 Sites

Transportation

Tourist Vehicle

Dining

None

Accommodation

Baingoin County

After breakfast, your whole group will continue your trip across the vast and windswept grasslands of Northern Tibet. The road keep remain around 4700 meters. The along scenery shows the essence of Tibet’s nomadic life. Endless meadows stretching toward the horizon, herds of black-and-white yaks grazing freely, and the occasional eagle gliding across the brilliant sky, all set against a backdrop of distant snow-capped peaks.

The drive from Baingoin county to Namtso Lake covers about 200 km (3 to 3.5 hours). As you enter the Namtso National Scenic Area, the deep-blue waters of this sacred lake unfold before you, reflecting the majestic Nyenchen Tanglha Mountain Range. Colorful prayer flags flutter in the crisp wind, and traditional Tibetan houses dot the lakeshore, very impressive.

At an elevation of 4,718 meters, Namtso Lake - meaning “Heavenly Lake” in Tibetan - is one of the three great sacred lakes of Tibet and the highest saltwater lake in China. It is revered in Tibetan Buddhism as the spiritual dwelling of a goddess. Pilgrims often visit to pray, meditate, and walk the kora around its shores. The lake’s ever-changing hues, shifting from turquoise to deep sapphire under the sunlight, make it a paradise for photography and contemplation alike.

You’ll explore the scenic Tashi Dor Peninsula, the heart of the Namtso area. This limestone peninsula features unique karst formations, with stone pillars and natural arches rising above the water. The famous “Welcoming Rock” (or Couple Stone) stands with open “arms” as if greeting travelers, while the Lotus Cave and its natural stupa add a mystical touch. On the peninsula stands Tashi Dor Monastery, shrouded in incense smoke and surrounded by colorful prayer flags that dance in the wind, creating a vivid living thangka of devotion and nature.

After your visit, begin the drive to Lhasa. Crossing the Nagenla Pass at 5,190 meters, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of Namtso Lake shimmering beneath you - where the lake and sky merge into one boundless expanse.

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive back in Lhasa. This marks the end of your circle tour.

Wildlife of Northern Tibet

Wildlife of Northern Tibet

Namtso Lake, Holy Lake in Tibet

Our Guests Took a Photo with a Yak

Attractions

1 Site

Transportation

Tourist Vehicle

Dining

None

Accommodation

Lhasa

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to the holy city of Lhasa. Your guide and driver will escort you to Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station. Take your flight or train to next destination or go home.

Travel Tips:

1. The drive from downtown Lhasa to the airport takes about 1 hour, so we recommend booking flights departing after 10:00 AM.
2. Please share your flight or train schedulewith us in advance to ensure a smooth transfer.
3. Kindly provide accurate flight or train booking detailsso that we can arrange the group’s complimentary shared transfer efficiently.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for Tibet Group Tour. We hope to see you on your next journey!

Fly away from Lhasa

Viewing beautiful Tibet Scenery from the Airplane

Attractions

Transfer to the airport or train station for departure

Transportation

Tourist Vehicle

Dining

Breakfast

Accommodation

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