The Tibetan Highlands

Lhasa · Nyingchi · 11 days · from $5980 USD

Heritage · Nature · Mountains · Adventure

Climb the red and white Potala Palace at first light, then join pilgrims on the kora.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa — Airport pickup and a slow transfer into the city to rest and acclimatize to the altitude.
Day 2: Potala Palace & Jokhang Temple — Climb the red and white palace at first light, then join pilgrims around the Jokhang Temple.
Day 3: Sera & Drepung Monasteries — Watch the debating monks of Sera and wander the vast halls of Drepung.
Day 4: Drive to Yamdrok Lake — Cross the mountain pass to the turquoise sacred lake, with prayer flags snapping in the wind.
Day 5: Gyantse & Shigatse — Visit the Gyantse Kumbum and the Pelkor Chode monastery, then continue to Shigatse.
Day 6: Drive Toward Nyingchi — A scenic day descending through valleys and forests toward the milder climate of Nyingchi.
Day 7: Nyingchi — Basum Tso — Explore the emerald lake of Basum Tso ringed by pine and snow peaks.
Day 8: Lulang Forest & Namcha Barwa — Hike the Lulang fir forest and, with luck, catch the peak of Namcha Barwa from the ridge.
Day 9: Return Toward Lhasa — Drive back across the plateau, stopping at river valleys and roadside villages.
Day 10: Barkhor Kora & Free Time — Walk the Barkhor circuit with pilgrims, then a free afternoon for shopping or rest.
Day 11: Departure — Private transfer to Lhasa airport for your onward journey.