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Before deciding to do the trekking, ask yourselves why you wish to trek in Tibet. As you traverse the route from Ganden Monastery to Samye Monastery, you will venture off the beaten path into the heart of the Tibetan highlands. This 9-day tour is a journey of adventure that reveals the wonders of Tibetan Buddhism and the lives of those who reside in this lofty, storied land.

You will have 4 days’ trek and cross two high passes in the Tsotup Chu Valley: Shug La (5,250m) and Chitu La (5,210m). You will also get to explore various monasteries along the trekking trail. The main highlight of this trek is the trail connecting two important monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism: Ganden and Samye.

Ganden Monastery, founded by Tsongkhapa, is the first monastery of the Gelug school. It is also known as one of the 'Great Three' Gelug monasteries. Samye Monastery, founded in 779 AD, is Tibet's first Buddhist monastery. With a unique circular design symbolizing the Buddhist mandala, it incorporates Indian, Tibetan, and Chinese artistic styles. Also, you won’t miss the highlights of Lhasa, like Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery. I believe this is the Tibet you expect to see and explore.

You Can Experience “Must-see & Must-do” with This Tour
Highlight 1: Come to the Sunlight City to marvel at the world famous holy center - Potala Palace comprising the White and Red Palaces built on the Red Mountain;
Potala Palace
Highlight 2:Give yourself some quiet moments to view in front of the “spiritual heart of the city” and see the numerous local Tibetan Buddhists and pilgrimages worshiping devoutly in front of Jokhang Temple;
Jokhang Temple
Highlight 3: Travel outside of Lhasa city to one of the “great three” Gelug university monasteries of Tibet - Sera Monastery to explore exceptional Buddhist religious complex and see the famous debate among monks on the Buddhist doctrines;
Sera Monastery
Highlight 4: Have a nice exploration in the first Gelugpa Monastery - Ganden Monastery founded by Tsongkhapa, with stupendous views of the surrounding Kyi-Chu Valley and fascinating kora;
Ganden Monastery
Highlight 5: Challenge both your body and mind and complete the 4-day trekking from Ganden Monastery to Samye Monastery which is composed of 80 kilometers’ journey;
Trek to Samye Monastery
Highlight 6: Get amazed by the first Tibetan Buddhist Nyingma monastery built in Tibet - Samye Monastery in the Yarlung Valley and be enthralled by the exquisite layout symbolizing the Buddhist mandala.
Samye Monastery
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Itinerary at a Glance

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Lhasa (3 Days)

Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Dadong Village, Sera Monastery

Ganden Monastery Trekking (4 Days)

Yama Do, Shuga-La Pass, Chitu-La Pass

Shannan (2 Days)

Samye Monastery

Itinerary Day by Day

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Day 1 Lhasa Arrival | Pick-up Service & Hotel Check-in

Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region! Upon your arrival at the airport in Lhasa, the tour guide and driver will meet you at the exit, and then escort you to the hotel in downtown Lhasa (100km, about 1.5 hours’ drive) . You can have a good rest to get used to the altitude (3,650m) in your hotel and get ready to explore Lhasa with your guide the next day.

Arrival Ideas:
Lhasa is located in the southern part of the Tibetan Plateau and southwestern China. Traveling to Tibet is convenient by air, railway, or road. There are five airports in Tibet, with Lhasa Gonggar Airport being the most popular for flights from Chengdu (which is also popular), Chongqing, Xian, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Kunming, Xining, Shangri-La, and other cities. One international airline even connects Lhasa and Kathmandu. Moreover, travelers can take the train to Lhasa from Xining (21 hours, the starting point of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway), Lanzhou (24.5 hours), Chongqing (35.5 hours), Chengdu (36.5 hours), Xian (31 hours), Beijing (40.5 hours), Shanghai (47 hours), Guangzhou (52.5 hours), Shigatse (2.5 hours), Nyingzhi (4 hours), and other cities.

Kind Reminds:
1.It is good to avoid altitude sickness by slowing down, keeping warm, drinking water frequently, avoiding showers for the first one or two days, taking it easy, and sleeping well.
2.You should always follow your doctor's advice regarding altitude based on your health condition.
3.Be sure to let your guide or the hotel staff know whenever you feel unwell or need help. The people there are always willing to help and are good at dealing with altitude sickness.

Notes for Trekking:
During your initial days in Lhasa of Tibet, it is important to take it easy and dedicate ample time to acclimate to the elevated altitude. This is a crucial step in preparing yourself for the trek ahead.

DiningDining:
None
AccommodationAccommodation:
Lhasa
Day 2 Lhasa City Tour | Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery, Barkhor Street, Tibetan-style Featured Dinner

Today, you and your group will explore Lhasa by visiting Jokhang Temple, a world cultural heritage site renowned for its brilliant architecture, culture, art, and history. After that, you will experience Tibetan Buddhism by witnessing the Monks' Debating in Sera Monastery. Finally, you can stroll through the famous Barkhor Street with locals and learn more about the daily kora life of Tibetans.

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.)

In the afternoon, drive approximately 30km (50 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.

Afterward, head back to downtown Lhasa for a walk on busy Barkhor Street near the Jokhang Monastery, which was a place for Buddhists to do a kora (pilgrim circuit) in ancient times. Nowadays, it has become a thriving local market where you can drink a pot of yak butter tea, dress in Tibetan clothes for photos, and pick up some local Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian handicrafts and souvenirs.

DiningDining:
Breakfast, Dinner
AccommodationAccommodation:
Lhasa
Day 3 Lhasa City Tour | Potala Palace, Drepung Monastery

Today you will explore the world’s highest palace for its brilliant architectures, culture, and history, then visits to one of the "great three" Gelug university monasteries in Tibet - the Drepung Monastery.

In the morning, you can walk into Potala Palace (World Heritage), the traditional residence and winter palace of the Dalai Lama (1649-1959). It takes 365 steps from potala gate to reach the Red Palace which is the highest palace in the world at an altitude of 3,700m. Through the principal halls, chapels, and shrines of past Dalai Lamas in the Red Palace, you will be astonished and touched 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 lots of Tibetan pilgrims who come all the way from afar to this sacred site to pray as their life time destination. You can also ask your guide to share more information about Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd king of Tibet, who first build the Potala Palace in the 7th century for his marriage to Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty. (Note: We may adjust the visit order due to the visiting time of your Potala Palace Ticket. All visitors must visit the Potala Palace with a tour group while staying inside for an hour. No photo inside.)

Then, drive about 35 minutes (12km) to visit the Drepung Monastery, which was the largest Tibetan monastery (of the Gelug Sect) in Lhasa. It used to be the palace of the Dalai Lama before he moved to the Potala Palace in the 17th century. Today, it is famous for the Drepung Shoton Festival held each August, where people come to offer yogurt to the monks who have finished their 100 days of meditation. You can also witness the grandest Buddha/Thangka Unfolding Ceremony. Besides the unique architecture and amazing buildings, you can watch monks debating in Tibetan Buddhism, which is vibrant and active with expansive gestures, clapping, and stamping. After visiting the Drepung Temple, you will have about a 2-hour Tibetan culture tour, which includes an introduction, Tibetan incense making, and block printing.

DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
Lhasa
Day 4 Lhasa - Ganden - Tsubshi - Yama-do | Ganden Monastery, Tsubshi Village, Yama Do

Altitude: 3800 meters | Distance: 7km | Duration: 2-3 hours

In this morning, you will be driven about 55km to the Ganden Monastery. Founded in 1409 by Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, Ganden Monastery was the first monastery of the Gelug tradition. As your car zigzags up the road, the grand white architectural complex of Ganden Monastery first comes into view. Walk leisurely and fully explore the Main Prayer Hall, which contains thousands of Buddha statues, murals, and religious artifacts. Observe the monks praying, chanting, and performing rituals. Then, marvel at the statues of Tsongkhapa, including a famous statue of him at age 8.

After the exploration, you will be transferred to Tsubshi Village to begin your trek. The trek winds through scenic countryside, passing quiet villages like Hepu and Ani Pagong. As you trek, enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Kyichu Valley and Lhasa River basin. After 3 hours of trekking, you will arrive at Yama Do, which offers extensive campsites to accommodate you for the night. Gaze at the stars as you rest from the day's trek and prepare for the continuation of your journey tomorrow.

DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
Yama-do
Day 5 Yama-do - Tsotup-chu Valley | Shuga-La pass, Tsotup-Chu river

Altitude: 5250 meters | Distance: 10km | Duration: 5-7 hours

This morning, wake up refreshed and enjoy a simple breakfast. It is time to continue your trek through pristine mountain landscapes from Yama Do to the scenic Tsotup-chu Valley. The route descends into the valley and follows the valley bottom. Within 45 minutes, you enter a wet alpine basin filled with tussock grass. You then arrive at the Shuga-La pass. The climb up the rocky trail to this pass is challenging due to strong winds. Descend carefully from the pass, then gradually descend to the valley floor. Cross the large Tsotup-Chu river, which flows through the valley. Be on the lookout for the herders' dogs in the area.

After that, set up a comfortable camp in one of the local herder's fields and stay overnight.

DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
Tsotup-chu Valley
Day 6 Tsotup-chu Valley - Herders’ Camps | Chitu La Pass

Altitude: 5210 meters | Distance: 14km | Duration: 5 hours

On this day, you will continue your trek from Tsotup-chu Valley to the herders' camps. Follow the Tsotup-chu River down through its tributary streams and head toward the Chitu La Pass (altitude: 5210m). The ascent up this rocky pass challenges you with stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. After reaching the pass, quickly descend down the other side and wander through idyllic alpine meadows. Later, in 20 more minutes, you will come upon a flat seasonal herders' camp on the east side of the valley, which is suitable for camping. Continue trekking through the scenic landscape to search for a campsite, as there are numerous options in the area.

DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
Herders’ Camps
Day 7 Trek to Yamalung | Samye Monastery, Yamalung Hermitage

Altitude: 5210 meters | Distance: 14km | Duration: 5 hours

This is the final day of your trek, bringing you to the sacred Samye Monastery. The journey encompasses 39 kilometers of natural wonder. Trek 15 kilometers through thick forest and alpine streams, soaking in the beauty of the Kyichu Valley. Then, enjoy a scenic 24 kilometer ride to Samye.

The trail winds east through scrub forest. Within an hour, you arrive at a stream tumbling from the valley slopes. Cross the stream and continue beneath thinning forest canopy. Soon, the first village appears - Changtang. Trek at a leisurely pace, immersed in the valley scenery. In one hour, you reach Yamalung Hermitage, your journey's end. Your driver awaits to escort you to Samye.

Stay overnight in Samye Town.

DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
Yamalung
Day 8 Samye Monastery

This morning, you will have a wonderful visit to Samye Monastery. Founded in 775 AD, Samye Monastery is Tibet's first Buddhist monastery and has a history of over 1200 years. Surrounded by barren mountains and rolling sand dunes, Samye Monastery has a unique circular design, symbolizing the Buddhist mandala. The design was chosen by guru Padmasambhava and incorporates Indian, Tibetan and Chinese styles.

Entering the monastery, you will be surprised by its exquisite layout, which is designed according to the structure of the 'Great Thousand World' in Buddhist scriptures. It is constructed as a mandala of Esoteric Buddhism: The Utse Great Hall represents Mount Sumeru, the center of the world; the four halls surrounding the main hall represent the four continents and eight subcontinents in the four oceans; the Sun and Moon Halls symbolize the Sun and Moon halls in the universe; the monastery walls symbolize the Iron Encircling Mountains at the outer edge of the world. Four red, white, green and black pagodas are built around the main hall to suppress evil spirits and prevent natural and man-made disasters.

After visiting Samye, you can have a leisure trek around. Stay overnight in Samye Town.

DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
Samye Town
Day 9 Samye - Lhasa Departure | Hotel Check-out and Airport See-off

On this day, you will be transferred to Lhasa Airport (about 1.5 hours’ driving) for departure. Your 9-day Tibet trip ends.

Extension Ideas: If you prefer to travel longer in Tibet, you can extend your trip to other highlighted parts of Tibet, including Shigatse, Gyantse, Everest Base Camp and Mount Kailash. Tell us your ideas.

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!

DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
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Price: What’s Included & What’s Excluded

Price: Request
The above price is based on a private tour for 2 people. Price varies depending on travel date, group size, hotel class, program in your itinerary and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate.

What’s Included?

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Professional licensed English-speaking local guide
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Private Vehicle: Experienced drivers & air-conditioned vehicles
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Hotel accommodation with breakfasts (3-star standard)
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Meals: Breakfasts plus featured meals - Tibetan welcome banquet in Lhasa & The world’s highest altitude hot pot experience at EBC (if you take the tour to EBC).
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Admission tickets, activities listed in the itinerary
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Tibet Permits: Tibet Entry Permit, Alien Travel Permit, Border Pass, etc.
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Pick up and Drop off Service: The pick up and drop off service are free from 7:00am to 22:00pm on the pick up and drop off date.
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Oxygen and Water: A container of Oxygen per person for emergency use; 2 bottles of drinking water per person per day (300ml); 4L Medical oxygen cylinder with car
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Our service from tour planning, handling, operational and finishing your trip

What’s Excluded?

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International airfares
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Entry visa fees
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Personal expenses
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Single room supplement
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Recommended optional activities
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Arrival/departure flights or train on the first and last day
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Tips or gratuities for guides and drivers

Important Trip Notes for Booking a Private Tibet Tour

Do I need to get a Tibet permit to visit Tibet? How long does it take to obtain?
All foreign travelers are required to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit to visit Tibet. The permit can only be applied for through a registered travel agency in Tibet (we are local based Tibet travel agency with office setting in Lhasa) and is required to purchase flight or train tickets to Tibet. The permit is necessary to enter Tibet and visit certain areas within the region, including Lhasa and Mount Everest Base Camp. Travelers should plan ahead and allow sufficient time for the permit application process, as it can take one to two weeks to obtain the necessary permits.
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.
How do I book a private Tibet tour?
It is very simple to book a private Tibet tour. Select the tour you are interested, and click “Make an Enquiry for Free”. Tell us your demands and likes while submitting the form. During this process, you don’t need to pay immediately. After sending us your requirements, one of our professional travel experts will get back to you within 0.5 to 24 hours. When all the information have confirmed, then you make the deposit. Please feel free to contact the travel expert directly if you have any questions prior to booking.
Combine Your Tibet Tour with Other Destinations in China
The above itinerary is the sample one that most travelers would go like that. The tour can be customized based on your likes, interests and budget. At the same time, if you want to extend this tour, just tell us your favored destinations and things to do. Our professional travel experts will redesign the trip totally for you at the best price. Tell us your ideas now >>
Transportation
In a private tour, it means you will transfer to the tourist attractions in one city by private vehicle. The private car we selected is spacious, comfortable and air-conditioned. And the driver we use are very experienced. As for traveling between two destinations, we use domestic flights (economy seat) or high speed trains (second class seat, usually less than 6 hours). The local guides and drivers will pick you up at the airport/train stations, and escort you to the hotel.
Meals
“B” stands for breakfast. You will have it at your hotel in the morning.
“L” stands for lunch. The restaurants we will arrange for you are all designated tourist restaurants approved by local tourist administration bureau. All are in good sanitary conditions. Your guide will assist you with ordering the dishes.
“D” means dinner. All dinners are excluded in the itinerary. You have the chance to taste some authentic Chinese food and local snacks.
If you have special dietary requirements (vegetarian, halal, kosher, Indian, or gluten-free), please let us know before your booking. We will try our best to take care of you.

Accommodation & Hotel Condition for Your Tibet Tour

Lhasa Recommended 3 Star Hotel
Shigatse Recommended 3 Star Hotel
EBC Accommodation
Have a good sleep everyday is very important during your China tour. In a private tour, you can decide on your own which hotel class you want - luxury 5 star, comfortable 4-star or economic 3-star.
All the hotels in each destination we selected are at good location, close to commercial street or tourist attractions. And, all the hotels we use have a business relationship for many years and they have windows, air-conditioners, hot water, showers, wifi... (except for basic accommodation condition when travel to Mount Everest) to ensure you luxury and comfortable sleep experience. The staff can speak English and they will provide you the high quality service. If you have any requirements, you can ask them to help.

View Photo Gallery for This Itinerary

  • Lhasa Potala Palace
  • Lhasa Barhkor Street
  • Lhasa Jokhang Temple
  • Lhasa Jokhang Temple
  • Lhasa Sera Monastery
  • Lhasa Sera Monastery
  • Lhasa Potala Palace
  • Lhasa Potala Palace
  • Lhasa Drepung Monastery
  • Lhasa Drepung Monastery
  • Ganden Monastery, Tibet
  • Ganden Monastery, Tibet
  • Ganden Monastery, Tibet
  • Ganden Monastery, Tibet
  • Lhasa Barhkor Street

Latest Tibet Tours Reviews from Our Customers

Discover what our customers are saying about the latest Tibet Tours. Browse through their recent reviews and feedback on tour arrangements, guides, transportation, attractions, dining, hotels, and detailed itineraries to plan your own unforgettable China tour. View All Customers Reviews >>
Ilwad
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Trip of a lifetime: before, during and after

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.

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Ilwad
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Tour name: Line B2, 8 days Lhasa-Yamdroktso-Shigaste-Mt.Everest tour. Key people: Bob (local Tibetan tour guide), Catherine Wang (travel consultant)...
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Destination(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
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Great Experience to Tibet

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.

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Jia Yin
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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 ...
GalleryGallery

Destination(s): Tibet

Date of Experience: Jul 08, 2024

Tour Customized by: Betty

You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour

Lynn
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A memorable trip

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

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Lynn
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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 Xi...
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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

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Destinations
  • Lhasa
Tour Information
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Flexible Dates
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Trusted Route
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Guaranteed Experience
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Trip Style: Private Tour (flexible travel dates & numbers of travelers)
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Tour Code: AOT-TTB-004
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Travel Route: Lhasa - Ganden Monastery - Samye Monastery - Lhasa
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Features: Trekking, History, Culture, Pandas, Religious Sites, Holy Mountains

Price: Request

(Based on a private tour for two people. Price varies depending on program, travel date, number of people.)

Free Enquiry! You don’t need to pay for the reservation.

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