Day 1 – Along Yamdrok Lake from Lhasa to Gyantse
After breakfast, you’ll begin your journey to Gyantse. The first stop will be Yamdrok Lake, which is one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes. Here, you’ll find waters that shimmer in every shade of turquoise, with reflections from the surrounding snow-covered mountains. Soak up the tranquil atmosphere and take a stroll along the shore and breathe in that fresh mountain air. Next, you’ll wind your way through the mountains until a huge wall of ice appears beside you. Looking up at the Karola Glacier, take some time to admire the striking contrast of the bright white icy mass against the deep blue sky and watch the strings of prayer flags dance in the wind. As you get closer to Gyantse, the landscape shifts to rolling hills dotted with Tibetan villages, and soon you’ll arrive at your local hotel, where you can continue acclimatising to the high altitude.
Day 2 – Visit Pelkor Monastery and continue to Shigatse
Today, you’ll start with a visit to Pelkor Monastery, known for its unique blend of architectural styles. Built in the 15th century, the monastery is home to the striking Kumbum Stupa, a 35-metre-high structure with 108 chapels, each decorated with detailed murals depicting Buddhist stories. Wander through the quiet courtyards, where the scent of incense fills the air, and watch monks go about their daily rituals, beneath a wave of ancient prayer flags. Next, you’ll visit Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, and home to Tashilhunpo Monastery, which is the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. Admire the 26-metre-high Maitreya Buddha statue covered in gold leaf and precious stones, and take a look at the extensive collection of religious scroll paintings (thangkas) and ancient manuscripts. Tonight you will spend the night in a small-scale hotel in Shigatse.
Day 3 – Along the Yarlung River to Samye
After breakfast, you will begin your journey towards Samya, along a winding road following the Yarlung (Brahmaputra) River. The scenery will change from fertile valleys and local farmers working in barley fields, to rocky mountain passes with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and the vast Tibetan plateau in the distance. On arrival in Samye, you will visit the monastery that is considered to be the first Buddhist monastery ever built in Tibet. Founded in the 8th century, this is a very symbolic place for pilgrims, where colourful murals tell Buddhist stories and immerse you in Tibet’s spiritual history. You’ll spend the night in Samye, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Day 4 – Visit to Yumbu Lakhang Palace & Traduk Monastery in Tsetang
Today, you’ll travel to Tsetang, often referred to as the cradle of Tibetan civilisation, where you’ll start with a visit to Yumbulagang Palace. Perched on a hill overlooking the valley, this palace is believed to be Tibet’s oldest building, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Inside, you’ll wander through rooms filled with ancient artefacts and murals that tell stories of Tibet’s early days. Next, you’ll head to Traduk Monastery, one of Tibet’s first Buddhist monasteries, founded in the 7th century. The main hall houses a statue of the Sakayamuni Buddha, and the walls are decorated with well-preserved ancient paintings. Tonight, you’ll stay in Tsetang, a town that feels like a living museum, with traditional Tibetan houses and lively markets that give you a glimpse into everyday life here.
Day 5 – Departure
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Lhasa’s Gonggar Airport in about half an hour, giving you the final chance to take in Tibet’s breathtaking landscapes on the journey. Passing through rolling grasslands with grazing yaks, you’ll catch your final glimpses of the snow-capped mountains that have framed your journey through this incredible region.
Accommodation
