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10 Days Ultimate Chengdu to Lhasa Overland Tour via Litang, Ranwu Lake, and Basum Tso Lake

Tour Route: Chengdu - Yajiang - Litang - Mangkang - Baxoi - Bome - Nyingchi - Lhasa

10 Travelers Joined This Trip in 2024| 2 Tourists’ve Booked for 2025| 5.0 ( reviews)
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Visit Nyingchi on the Way from Chengdu to Lhasa Cuopu Monastery Cuopo Lake Zhangde Grassland  Mt. Namcha Barwa Ranwu Lake Local Village on Sichuan-Tibet Highway Potala Palace
Visit Nyingchi on the Way from Chengdu to Lhasa Cuopu Monastery Cuopo Lake Zhangde Grassland  Mt. Namcha Barwa Ranwu Lake Local Village on Sichuan-Tibet Highway Potala Palace

icon Tour Code: SG012A

Tour Type: Join-in Small Group Tour (Min 1 to Around 12) i

Tour Type: Join-in Small Group Tour (Min 4 to Around 12) i

Tour Service: Tibetan Local Tour Guide & Driver

  Time to Vist: April to October i

Trip Level: Easy Trip for All Ages i

What Makes This Chengdu to Lhasa Overland Tour Different?

Master Kungga Dundruk

Driving along the scenic G318 highway from Chengdu to Lhasa with a perfect blend of cultural immersion and breathtaking natural beauty.icon

------ Tibetan Travel Guru,Master Kungga Dundruk icon

10 Days from USD1990

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Overview & Highlights of this Trip

This 10-day Sichuan Tibet overland trip from Chengdu to Lhasa covers the most beautiful sceneries along the G318 Highway, also known as the southern route of the Sichuan-Tibet highway.

Starting from Chengdu, you’ll embark on the picturesque G318 Highway, following the scenic southern route of the Sichuan-Tibet Highway to Xinduqiao and Kangding before arriving at the breathtaking Cuopugou Scenic Area. Spend a day exploring the national park, renowned for its stunning natural beauty in western Sichuan.

Continuing westernward, you will enter the Tibetan Autonumous Region from Nyingchi, visit the amazing Ranwu Lake and Basum Tso Lake in eastern Tibet. Finally, conclude your overland journey in Lhasa, the dreamy destination nestled on the Tibetan Plateau.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime overland adventure to explore the vast eastern Tibetan valleys, offering breathtaking natural landscapes and cultural treasures. Don't miss the unique blend of human culture and mountain grandeur, providing both solitude and vibrant colors.

  • picturesque highway to Tibet from Chengdu

    Highlight 1 of this Trip: Traverse the renowned G318, hailed as China's most picturesque highway, also known as the Sichuan-Tibet Highway.

  • Hengduan Mountains Landscape

    Highlight 2 of this Trip: Go deep into the villages along the route and experience different customs in different Tibetan-inhabited areas along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway.

  • Visit Tibetan Monastery with Tibetan Guide

    Highlight 3 of this Trip: Visit Nyingchi and explore the essence of Eastern Tibet.

  • Lhasa Nyingchi Expressway

    Highlight 4 of this Trip: Follow the new Lhasa-Nyingchi Expressway to the Holy City of Lhasa.

Itinerary Details

Trip at a Glance

Day 1: Chengdu Arrival

Day 2: Chengdu - Xinduqiao - Yajiang

Day 3: Yajiang - Litang - Cuopugou Scenic Area

Day 4: Cuopugou Scenic Area - Mangkang

Day 5: Mangkang - Zogong - Baxoi

Day 6: Baxoi - Ranwu Lake - Bome

Day 7: Bome - Nyingchi

Day 8: Nyingchi - Basum Tso - Lhasa

Day 9: Lhasa Day Tour

Day 10: Lhasa Departure

Day 1: Arrive in Chengdu

Welcome to Chengdu, the Land of Abundance!

After landing at Chengdu Airport, if you have not arranged for an arrival pick-up with us, you can take a taxi, subway or the Airport Express Train to downtown Chengdu and reach your hotel by yourself. We have arranged your hotel in the bustling city center, allowing you to experience the vibrant city life just a few steps away.

The rest of the day is free for you to be on your own. You can immerse yourself in Jinli for half a day, experiencing the captivating Sichuan Opera Face-Changing performance and indulging in a delicious hot pot meal. If it is not your first time to Chengdu, you can further explore the city's hidden literary and artistic attractions, such as Dongjiao Memory and Taikoo Li.

Later in the evening, you will meet your guide, who will share with you the sights, activities, and safety measures of the upcoming 12-day journey.

Stay overnight in Chengdu.

Insider Tips:
1. Chengdu has two international airports: Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport and Chengdu Tianfu International Airport. Please make sure to check which airport you're arriving at.

2. Chengdu Tianfu International Airport is about 67 kilometers from the city center, while Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is only 16 kilometers away.

3. If you need a pick-up service upon arrival, please let your travel consultant know beforehand.

Overnight in Chengdu
  • Come and have close contact with adorable giant pandas

  • Jinli Street

    You can appreciate breathtaking night view of Jinli Street in Chengdu

Day 2: Chengdu - Kangding - Xinduqiao - Yajiang (B)

Start the thrilling Sichuan-Tibet Highway journey via G318!

After breakfast, you will enjoy a scenic drive through the Chengdu Plain via the G318, which is the southern route of Sichuan-Tibet Highway. As you ascend from Chengdu at 500 meters above sea level to Kangding, the gateway of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, at 2560 meters above sea level, you'll witness a gradual transition in landscape and altitude.

Once you pass through Kangding, your journey will continue towards Zheduo Mountain (4962m), marking the initial gateway to the Kham region. Here, you'll be entranced by the awe-inspiring scenery of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, characterized by Tibetan villages, vast grasslands, grazing yaks, set against a backdrop of clear blue skies, fluffy white clouds, flowing streams, and picturesque poplar trees.

Then, continuing westward after crossing Zheduo Mountain, you will arrive at Xinduqiao (3460m), known as a paradise for photography. The tranquil villages, meandering rivers, vibrant traditional Tibetan homes, and fragrant alpine meadows create an enchanting scene, seemingly transporting you to the idyllic landscapes of your dream hometown, leaving you captivated. Particularly in autumn, the vibrant hues of the alpine meadows and trees transform Xinduqiao into a vivid and colorful living canvas.

In the evening, you will finally reach Yajiang County.

Stay overnight in Yajiang.

Insider Tips:
1. According to travel time and road conditions, we will choose one of the two route: the S434 Kangding Airport Road (via Honghaizi) or the G318 highway (via Zheduozhan)
2. It is suggested not to take a bath 3 days before going to the plateau to avoid high altitude sickness.
3. Water and electricity supply is insufficient in the Tibetan-inhabited areas in western Sichuan Province, and there are occasional water or power outages. You can bring wet wipes and flashlights with you.
4. It is better to take a bath after fully adapt to the high altitude. Be aware that the temperature of the bath watr may be unstable or the water will be stopped suddenly. So you need to take a quick shower and avoid getting cold.

Overnight in Yajiang
Breakfast
  • Night view of Kangding city

    Night view of Kangding city

  • Xinduqiao

    Spectacular view of xinduqiao

Day 3: Yajiang - Litang - Maoya Grassland - Cuopugou Scenic Area in Batang (B)

Continue your G318 overland journey!

After breakfast, you will leave Yajiang and continue your overland journey to Litang, the hometown of the 7th Dalai Lama, Kelsang Gyatso. En route, you will enjoy the breathtaking views of The Sky Road of Eighteen Bends, pass through the Jianziwan Tunnel, and then cross the Kazila Mountain with a pass elevation of 4,718 meters above sea level.

When you arrive in Litang, you will visit the Letong Ancient Town of Thousand Tibetan Households and several mini museums in the town to learn the culture and history of this little Tibetan town.

After that, you’ll visit Litang Chode Monastery, the oldest and largest Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the Kham Tibetan area.

Then, you will continue heading west. You will cross the Tu’er Mountain Pass at an elevation of 4,696 meters, pass through the Haizi Mountain Nature Reserve, the largest ancient glacier site on the Tibetan Plateau (altitude: 4,500 meters), and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Maoya Grassland. (Notice: the best time to visit Maoya Grassland is from May to August, when the wildflowers bloom across the vast grasslands with herds of cattle and sheep scattered throughout.)

Next, you will pass by the Sister Lakes on Haizi Mountain (also known as Zimei Lake). The two turquoise lakes are nestled together, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. 

Finally, you will arrive at the Cuopugou Scenic Area in north of Batang County.

Stay overnight in Batang.

Overnight in Batang
Breakfast
  • Litang County

    Popular Litang County

  • Views of Haizishan Mountain

    Views of Haizishan Mountain

Day 4: Cuopugou Scenic Area - Mangkang (B)

Explore Cuopugou Valley, one of the most beautiful spots along the G318 highway to Tibet!

In the morning, you will head to the Cuopugou Valley, which showcase the stunning landscapes of the plateau with snow-capped mountains, grasslands, forests, lakes, and monasteries.

Upon arrival at the scenic area, you’ll transfer to a sighstseeing bus at the visitor center. Your first stop will be Yasuo Monastery, a red building of the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Next, you'll visit the Rehe Hot Spring area, featuring over 150 hot springs with temperatures exceeding 85°C. You can enjoy delicious hot spring-boiled eggs in about 10 minutes.

The next stop for you today is Zhangde Grassland, hailed by China National Geography as the most beautiful high-altitude grassland in western Sichuan, with the majestic sacred mountain towering in the distance.

After that, you’ll arrive at Cuopo Lake, the most sacred lake of Kham, shimmering with waves and surrounded by colorful wildflowers in summer.

Then, you will visit Cuopu Monastery, Kangzhulatso Lake, and Zhimayongtso Lake in the scenic area. If you’re lucky, you can may meet adorable marmots and experience the harmony between humans and nature.

After finishing the tour in the scenic area, you’ll drive across the Jinsha River Bridge and enter the Tibet Autonomous Region, and finally arrive at Mangkang, the final destination of today’s journey.

Stay overnight in Mangkang.

Overnight in Mangkang
Breakfast
  • Zhangde Grassland and Rehe Hot Spring area

    Zhangde Grassland and Rehe Hot Spring area

  • Cuopugou Valley Cuopo Lake

    Cuopugou Valley Cuopo Lake

Day 5: Mangkang - Zogong - Baxoi (B)

Today is an adventure through the steep mountains and canyons along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway and cross the most spectacular and exciting winding mountain road in the whole journey - Nu River 72 Turns.

After breakfast, you will continue your overland journey westward and climb over Mount Lawu with an altitude o 4358 meters, and Mount Dongda with an altitude of over 5130 meters. Standing at the mountain pass, looking far into the distance, the brown-red valley passing by is like a burning flame, while the Sichuan-Tibet Highway is like two bright ribbons shuttling between thousands of mountains and valleys.

Then, you will arrive in Bangda Grassland in Baxoi county, the most important pasture in eastern Tibet. Here, herds of yaks and sheep roam leisurely on the vast grassland, and the pastoral scenery of the grassland will be displayed again.

Then, you will face an exciting challenge, descending from the Yela Mountain Pass at 4650 meters to the Nu River at an altitude of 2800 meters in just 12 kilometers. This section known as the "Nu River 72 Turns" is the most exciting section of the G318 National Highway to Tibet. Standing on the top of the mountain and looking down, the winding road is like a winding dragon. After countless 180-degree turns, it reaches the riverside. There is no end as far as the eye can see.

After the tour, you will drive to Baxoi and stay overnight in the town.

Insider Tips:
1. Once you enter the Tibet Automonous Region, there will be speed limits along the way, so please cooperate with the driver to keep on schedule.
2. Today’s journey will be quite long and challenging, so be ready and prepare some snacks and drinking water in advance.

Overnight in Baxoi.
Breakfast
  • Mount Dongda Pass

    Mount Dongda Pass

  • Nu River 72 Turns

    Nu River 72 Turns

Day 6: Baxoi - Ranwu Lake - Midui Glacier - Bome (B)

Today, embark on a picturesque journey to Eastern Tibet. Marvel at snow-capped mountains, serene lakeshores, and uncovered hidden glaciers.

In the morning, you will first travel to Ranwu Lake, the most charming lake in eastern Tibet. The long and narrow blue lake and more than 20 kilometers of shoreline slowly lead you into forests, snow-capped mountains, flower-filled meadows, quiet and warm Tibetan countryside, and villages. It seems like a tranquil and peaceful place that people in the noisy city have found.

Then, your guide will take you to Midui Glacier, the most beautiful glacier in China and the lowest glacier in the world. Just like the elves in the snow-capped mountains hiding in the depths of the forest, the glacier rushes down from the main peak at an altitude of 6,800 meters to the ice tongue at an altitude of 2,400 meters close to the lake. Dense forests, blue lakes, and white glaciers complement each other, forming a dreamlike and dense Eden.

Especially in late autumn, the colorful forest makes this secret land as intoxicating as a fairy tale world. If you like, you can also choose to hike to the foot of the glacier to touch the huge ice tongue (optional).

After the trip, you will reach today’s final destination, Bome.

Stay overnight in Bome.

Overnight in Bome
Breakfast
  • Ranwu Lake

    Well-known Ranwu Lake

  • Midui Glacier, the most beautiful glacier in China

    Midui Glacier, the most beautiful glacier in China

Day 7: Bome - Lulang Forest - Sejila Mountain (Mt. Namcha Barwa) - Nyingchi (B)

Today, you will step into the dense forest area and walk through the lush green forest.

In the morning, you'll leave Bome and continue driving east. You will find that the snow-capped mountains in front of you become more enchanting and the forest becomes denser. The snow-capped mountains are like diamonds set in the clear sky, which makes people dizzy. Under the snow-capped mountains is a vast forest, with white clouds floating between the snow-capped mountains and the forest.

After a while, you will come to Guxiang Lake hidden in the forest, climb to the pass of Sejila Mountain with an altitude of 4702 meters, and overlook the famous snow mountain at the eastern end of the Himalayas - Mt. Namcha Barwa. The towering Namcha Barwa Peak looks like a majestic spear, and the snow on the top of the mountain shines like diamonds in the blue sky.

Continuing forward, you will come to the second observation deck for viewing the Namcha Barwa Peak - Lulang Forest Platform. Here, you will once again appreciate the stunning beauty of Namcha Barwa Peak standing above the vast forest sea and cutting through the sky.

After appreciating the visual feast brought by the snow-capped mountains and forests, you will arrive at Lulang International Tourism Town. After arriving, you can enjoy the delicious food of Lulang Forest, stroll through the town, and feel the peaceful and leisurely atmosphere.

That night, you will arrive at Bayi Town in Nyingchi City, the most prosperous area in eastern Tibet. Here, you have the opportunity to taste the famous Stone Pot Chicken in Nyingchi (optional).

Stay overnight in Nyiching City (Bayi Town).

Overnight in Nyingchi
Breakfast
  • You can enjoy a great view of Mt. Namjia Bawa when it's fine.

    You can enjoy a great view of Mt. Namjia Bawa when it's fine.

  • While visiting Lunang Forest, you will see a typical highland meadow landscape.

    While visiting Lunang Forest, you will see a typical highland meadow landscape.

Day 8: Nyingchi - Basum Tso Lake - Lhasa (B)

Today, you will complete the last leg of your trip to eastern Tibet, visit the beautiful Basongtso, and then drive to the holy city of Lhasa.

After breakfast, the tour guide will lead you to Basum Tso Lake for a tour. Compared with other lakes in Tibet, Basum Tso Lake is the holy lake of the Tibetan Red Sect. The island in the middle of the lake is like a quiet water garden, with blue waves surrounding the island and ancient trees covering the temple. It is completely different from other temples and attractions on the Sichuan-Tibet highway. Here, you will board the Tsozong Gompa Temple, a thousand-year-old temple on a small island in the middle of the lake, and experience the ancient and profound religious culture.

Then, you will drive to the holy city of Lhasa via the highway connecting Lhasa and Nyingchi. On the way, there is a section passing through the Nyang River, which will give you a wonderful feeling of flying above the blue ocean.

When you see the majestic Potala Palace, it means that the long and exciting journey of more than ten days on the Sichuan-Tibet Highway is coming to an end. The holy city of Lhasa welcomes you!

Upon arrival, the tour guide and driver will take you to the hotel to check in, where you can wash away the travel dust.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Overnight in Lhasa
Breakfast
  • Surrounded by green mountains, Basom Tso, which means 'green water' in Tibetan language, is a wonderland for you to refresh yourself.

    Surrounded by green mountains, Basom Tso, which means 'green water' in Tibetan language, is a wonderland for you to refresh yourself.

  • You will drive to Lhasa via the beautiful Lhasa Nyingchi highway.

    You will drive to Lhasa via the beautiful Lhasa Nyingchi highway.

Day 9: Lhasa Tour - Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street (B)

Today’s Highlight is a visit to UNESCO World Heritage Sites Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, providing a glimpse into the daily beliefs and lives of the people of Lhasa.

After breakfast, your first stop is the Potala Palace, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Lhasa Old Town. Discover the lives and stories of the Dalai Lamas through history within the palace, and the extraordinary treasures it holds. The most valuable collections of Potala Palace are the gilded burial stupas of former Dalai Lamas and the meditation cave of the 33rd great king of Tibet.

After touring the Potala Palace, you will visit Longwangtan Park at the foot of the Potala Palace. Here, you can appreciate the majestic Potala Palace from a different perspective and engage in local Tibetan folk activities.

In the afternoon, you will head to the heart of Tibetan religion - the Jokhang Temple. Inside you can see the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni at the age of twelve. Outside, you can see pilgrims making prostrating in front of Jokhang Temple. Around the temple is Barkhor Street, where you can do kora (a religious circle of a building or mountain) with pilgrims and locals, and explore the old market.

Next, follow your guide to one of the liveliest indoor Tibetan tea houses in Lhasa. Sip traditional Tibetan sweet tea alongside local Tibetans as your guide shares insights into Tibetan social dynamics and daily life.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Overnight in Lhasa
Breakfast
  • Potala Palace is always the No.1 attraction for travelers visiting Tibet.

    Potala Palace is always the No.1 attraction for travelers visiting Tibet.

  • A Tibetan pilgrim is worshipping  Jokhang Temple

    A Tibetan pilgrim is worshipping Jokhang Temple

Day 10: Depart from Lhasa (B)

Today marks the end of your Tibet tour.

Please make sure to verify your departure flight/train details with our guide in advance. And your guide will take you to the airport or train station.

Thank you for choosing Tibet Vista, and we extend a warm welcome for your return to Tibet in the future.

Insider Tips:
We also offer Tibet group tours to the west of Lhasa, featuring iconic destinations such as the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, followed by the sacred Mount Kailash, the pristine Lake Manasarovar, and so on. If you interested to extend your journey in Tibet, please feel free to tell your travel consultant.

Breakfast
  • Big farewell to Lhasa, and may you have a safe and pleasant journey back home!

    Big farewell to Lhasa, and may you have a safe and pleasant journey back home!

  • Your guide will escort you to Lhasa Railway Station if you depart Tibet by train.

    Your guide will escort you to Lhasa Railway Station if you depart Tibet by train.

Tour Cost & Schedule in 2025

Class/Price for P.PMay 1 to Jun.20Jun.21 to Aug.28Aug.29 to Oct.31
Economic Class 1990 US$ 2190 US$ 1990 US$
  • iocn

    2 clients have booked this trip with us in 2025.

    Welcome you to join in us together.

  • Calendar List

Please Note:

If you couldn’t find a tour date suitable for your travel schedule in the above form, please contact our travel experts and they will help you plan a delightful vacation to Tibet at the BEST local price.

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From Tibet travel permits to local accommodations and transportation, we've got you covered. While train and flight tickets to Tibet are not included, we ensure seamless and 100% guaranteed booking for your convenience.

Your Tibet tour experience starts with us!

Price Inclusions:

Tibet Travel Permit and all required local travel documents for this tour (excluding expedited processing fees);

Comfortable tourist vehicle according to the group size;

All entrance ticket fees for all tourist sites listed in the itinerary;

All meals listed in the itinerary;

Knowledgeable English-speaking local tour guide shared in your group (For prices of tour guides in other languages, please inquire);

Economic hotels. Upgrades are available for an additional fee. (Single room supplement required when not sharing the room);

Free shuttle between railway station / airport and the downtown hotel.

Service Charge & Government Taxes;

Arrangements including planning, handling, operational, and communication charges;

Tourist accident/casualty insurance;

Additional services include fine Tibetan souvenirs, a tourist map, portable oxygen, medical oxygen in the vehicle, bottled mineral water, and more.

Price Exclusion:

China Visa (If you need visa assistance services, feel free to contact us for more details.);

International flight to and out of China;

Domestic flight/train to Chengdu and flight/train out of Lhasa (If you need us to book the domestic flight/train tickets, please contact us for the details.);

Single Room Supplement: Hotels default to double occupancy with twin-bedded rooms. If you prefer a single room or room sharing isn't possible, a single room supplement is necessary. Please consult the travel consultant for specific pricing details.

Meals not listed in the itinerary;

Tips for the guide and driver. If you are satisfied with their service, it is suggested to provide a combined tip of around 7 USD/50 RMB per guest per day;

Other expenses caused by force majeure events (such as natural disasters, traffic control, loss of valuables, visa delays, flight delays or cancellations, etc.);

Personal expenses, like laundry, phone calls, snacks, soft drinks (please do your best to avoid alcoholic beverages during your Tibet trip), optional tour activities, etc.

Chengdu to Lhasa Overland Trip Notes

1. What are the necessary travel documents for the overland tour from Chengdu to Lhasa via G318?

First, you need to apply for a Chinese Group Visa from the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. Make sure you don’t have a Chinese Visa, or your former visa will be canceled once the group visa is issued.

Then, you also need the Tibet Travel Permit to enter the Tibet Autonomous Region.

We’ll take care of Tibet Travel Permit, as well as other local travel documents as part of our tour package. Simply follow our guidance, and there’s no need to worry about the process.

2. How to apply for the Tibet Travel Permit and how long can I get my Tibet Permit?

Once you book your Chengdu to Lhasa tour with us, simply provide the scanned copy of your valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity) and your Chinese Visa.

Generally, it takes 7-14 working days to process the Tibet Travel Permit. Our local travel guide will take the permit to you while meet you at Chengdu.

3. How far in advance should I book the Chengdu to Lhasa overland tour ?

To ensure a smooth journey, it is recommended to book the tour at least 15-20 daysbefore departure.

Of course, booking 1 or 2 months or even earlier will help us apply for necessary travel documents on your behalf and make advance reservations for accommodations.

Additionally, early booking provides the opportunity to enjoy early bird discounts. The earlier you book, the better prepared you'll be, and you won't be troubled in a rush.

4. When is the best time to take this Chengdu to Lhasa overland tour?

The best time to travel from Chengdu to Lhasa by land is in Spring (April to early June) and Autumn (September to October).In both spring and autumn, the weather remains consistently stable, warm, and delightful. In spring, you will enjoy the blooming mountain flowers on the way, while in autumn, you will appreciate autumn foliage and snow-capped peaks.

Summer (July to August) is the rainy seasonof the areas along the Sichuan-Tibet highway, and natural disasters such as mudslides may occur on some sections of the road.

Winter (November to March) may not to be ideal for travel due to snowy roads and potential road closures.

5. What is the elevation along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway? And how to prevent high altitude sickness during the Chengdu to Lhasa overland tour?

The Sichuan-Tibet highway connecting Chengdu and Lhasa passes through the Hengduan Mountains. The altitude changes a lot during the drive, and you’ll go up many mountains over 4000 meters above sea level.

Check the altitude of major attractions along the way as below:

AttractionsAltitude
Chengdu 500m
Kangding 2560m
Zheduo Mountain 4962m
Xinduqiao 3460m
Litang 4014m
Haizi Mountain 4500m
Daocheng Yading 3764m
Batang 2500m
Mount Lawu 4358m
Mount Dongda 5086m
Zogang 3750m
Ranwu Lake 3850m
Bome 2720m
Sejila Mountain 4702m
Bayi (Nyingchi) 2994m
Lhasa 3658m
Yamdrok Lake 4441m
Shigatse 3850m

To avoid altitude sickness, plan your itinerary wisely and include enough rest time. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoid alcohol and excessive exertion. Maintaining a positive attitude helps prevent discomfort.

It's advisable to consult a doctor for altitude sickness medication as a precaution.

If you experience severe symptoms like hypersensitivity, intense headaches, or difficulty breathing during the trip, promptly use oxygen, inform the tour guide, and seek immediate medical attention with their assistance.

6. How long is the highway from Chengdu to Lhasa? What is the road condition?

The Sichuan-Tibet highway is 2159 kilometers long, connecting Chengdu and Lhasa. Renowned as the most beautiful highway to Tibet, it traverses the Hengduan Mountains and the Himalayas, navigating through diverse terrains such as plains, hills, and mountains.

The road conditions along the way are complex. Although road conditions have improved this year, some road sections may still be affected by natural disasters caused by bad weather, resulting in poor road conditions. It is recommended to contact us before traveling to obtain the latest traffic information on the Sichuan-Tibet Line.

7. Where to stay during the overland journey from Chengdu to Lhasa?

While the Sichuan-Tibet Highway is a well-established tourist route, the towns along the way are scarce, and accommodation options are limited. Cities like Chengdu and Nyingchi offer a diverse range of lodging choices. However, in smaller towns such as Xinduqiao and Litang, accommodations are mostly in the form of hotels or small inns, providing a comfortable and clean stay.

8. What to pack for the overland trip from Chengdu to Lhasa?

Clothes: No matter when you visit Lhasa and Shigatse, you need to prepare warm clothing for the cold night at the Tibetan Plateau. To ensure comfort, opt for warm, windproof outerwear, and consider layering to adapt to temperature fluctuations. In summer, lightweight clothing is suitable, while during spring and autumn, it's advisable to wear at least three layers (undershirt, sweater, outerwear). In winter, prioritize warmer clothing with wind protection. Additionally, due to strong ultraviolet rays, don't forget to wear sunglasses and a hat.

Personal Care: Pack your essentials such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, facial cleanser, towels, and other personal toiletries. Since there are no shower facilities at Everest Base Camp, consider bringing wet wipes for convenience.

Skincare: Due to the dry climate in Tibet, pack lip balm, moisturizing cream, and hydrating masks to prevent skin dryness and cracking.

Sun Protection: Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and sunglasses for effective sun protection against the strong UV rays in Tibet.

Additional Necessities: Considering the long distances between attractions in Tibet, bring a U-shaped pillow for a comfortable journey. Also, having a thermal flask ensures you have hot water whenever needed.

Common Medications: Take essential medications like motion sickness pills, gastrointestinal medicine, anti-inflammatory drugs, cold medicine, and other medications for emergencies. Include adhesive bandages and eye drops. (Consult your doctor and carefully follow medical advice when taking medication.)

Electronic Devices: Bring your phone, camera, power bank, and any other necessary electronic devices. If you plan to bring a drone, check with our travel consultant in advance. Tibet operates on a 220V voltage.

Cash and Cards: Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly accepted in major cities such as Chengdu, Nyingchi, and Lhasa. While credit cards are usable in some large hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls in big cities, it's important to note that in some small towns along the way, cash might be essential. To ensure convenience, it's recommended to carry a small amount of Chinese yuan and at least one bank card with you.

+ More Travel Notes

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Visit Nyingchi on the Way from Chengdu to Lhasa Cuopu Monastery Cuopo Lake Zhangde Grassland  Mt. Namcha Barwa Ranwu Lake Local Village on Sichuan-Tibet Highway Potala Palace
Visit Nyingchi on the Way from Chengdu to Lhasa Cuopu Monastery Cuopo Lake Zhangde Grassland  Mt. Namcha Barwa Ranwu Lake Local Village on Sichuan-Tibet Highway Potala Palace

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