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12 Days Chengdu to Lhasa Self Drive Road Trip via G318

Once-in-a-lifetime G318 Highway Self Drive

12 Days Chengdu to Lhasa Self Drive Road Trip via the Most Scenic G318 National Highway

Tour Route: Chengdu - Danba - Xinduqiao - Litang - Daocheng Yading - Mangkang - Zogong - Baxoi - Rawu Lake - Bomi - Nyingchi - Lhasa

drive-car
  • Tour Type

    Private Tour Service

  • Tour Service

    Vehicle Rental & Local Guide

  • Best Time

    April to October

  • Price From

    USD 1680 p.p

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Our Tibet Self-Drive Tour Service Includes:

  • Tibet Travel Permit & China Temporary Driving License;

  • Comfortable hotel accommodation;

  • Comfortable/luxury rental car with navigation system;

  • Unlimited driving Kms based on the itinerary;

  • All fuel, parking costs, and toll fees during the trip;

  • English-speaking Tibetan local tour guide with Co-pilot driving service;

  • 24/7 emergency telephone support.

What Makes this Trip Different?
Master Kungga Dundruk
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Driving the most scenic route from Chengdu to Lhasa via G318 will be a lifelong memories to cherish forever! icon

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

Overview & Highlights of this Trip

Nothing compares to this Sichuan to Tibet self-driving journey! Starting from Chengdu, the ‘Land of Abundance’, you’ll travel westward along the G318 National Highway, crossing towering mountains and surging rivers until you reach the holy city of Lhasa.

The Sichuan Tibet Highway (G318), known as the most beautiful overland route to Tibet, will take you through mountains and grasslands, offering breathtaking scenery along the way. You'll marvel at the majesty of Mount Siguniang, admire the beauty of Xinduqiao, and linger in the Daocheng Yading Scenic Area, the ‘Last Shangri-la on Earth’. Continuing to Nyingchi, you'll drive through dense forests and pass by crystal lakes and snow-capped mountains in eastern Tibet.

Of course, this Chengdu to Lhasa self-drive road trip is not only about admiring the landscapes but also about challenges. You’ll cross numerous high-altitude mountain passes and conquer the thrilling 72 turns of the Nujiang River. But don’t worry, our accompanying guide will provide a co-pilot driving service to ensure your safe journey to Tibet.

Finally, upon arrival in Lhasa and facing the majestic Potala Palace, reflecting on the past few days of travel, you’ll feel a great sense of excitement and accomplishment.

  • G318 Highway

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

  • Local Tibetans Living in the Villages along the way

    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.

  • Explore Daocheng Yading

    Highlight 3 of this Trip: Spend a whole day in Daocheng Yading to explore the beauty of the Last Shangri-la on Earth.

  • Visiting Nyingchi in the eastern Tibet

    Highlight 4 of this Trip: Visit Nyingchi and explore the essence of Eastern Tibet.

  • Visit Potala Palace in Lhasa

    Highlight 5 of this Trip: Admire the Potala Palace, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the landmark of Lhasa.

Itinerary Details

Trip at a Glance

Day 1: Arrive in Chengdu

Day 2: Chengdu - Mt.Siguniang - Danba

Day 3: Danba - Tagong - Xinduqiao

Day 4: Xinduqiao - Daocheng - Shangri-la Town

Day 5: Daocheng Yading Scenic Area Day Tour

Day 6: Yading - Mangkang

Day 7: Mangkang - Zogang - Baxoi

Day 8: Baxoi - Ranwu Lake - Midui Glacier - Bomi

Day 9: Bomi - Nyingchi

Day 10: Nyingchi - Basum Tso Lake - Lhasa

Day 11: Lhasa Day Tour

Day 12: Depart from Lhasa

Day 1: Arrive in Chengdu

Welcome to Chengdu, the Land of Abundance!

After arriving in Chengdu, you can explore the city freely as you like.

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.

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.

Overnight in Chengdu
  • Sichuan opera

    One of the highlights of Sichuan opera is the face changing performance

  • Jinli Street

    You can appreciate breathtaking night view of Jinli Street in Chengdu

Day 2: Chengdu - Mt.Siguniang - Danba | 360KM Driving

Today, start the exciting road trip along the famous Sichuan-Tibet Highway (G318)!

After breakfast, you will start the road trip from Chengdu to Mount Siguniang for a 220-kilometers’ drive. Mount Siguniang, also known as the Four Sisters Mountain, is one of the most famous snow-capped mountain of the western Sichuan Plateau. You will visit the Shuangqiao Valley of Mount Siguniang, strolling through dense forests and being amazed by the magnificent scenery of snow-capped mountains.

Then, you will drive another 104 kilometers to Danba County, which is known as the Valley of Beauties and famous for the Jiaju Tibetan Village. Stolling through the village, you will be attracted by the charming scenery of the ancient Tibetan villages, and enjoy stunning views of terraced fields and snow-capped mountains around.

Stay overnight in Danba.

Overnight in Danba
  • Mount Siguniang

    Mount Siguniang

  • Shuangqiao Valley of Mount Siguniang

    Shuangqiao Valley of Mount Siguniang

Day 3: Danba - Tagong - Xinduqiao | 160KM Driving

Drive your way to Moshi Park Scenic Area, pass through Tagong Grassland, and finally arrive at Xinduqiao, renowned as a photography paradise along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway.

After breakfast, you will drive around 90 kilometers to Moshi Park Scenic Area. You’ll be amazed by the breathtaking views of the mountains and unique rock formations here.

Then, continue your drive to Tagong Grassland, a vast grassland surrounded by snow-capped mountains. You can wander through the grassland and visit nomadic families who have lived here for generations. Experience their harmonious way of life amidst the stunning natural surroundings.

In the afternoon, you will arrive at Yuzixi, the popular scenic platform along the G318 Sichuan-Tibet highway. Standing on the platform, you will get a panoramic view of the majestic snow-capped mountains, undulating grasslands and winding valleys.

Finally, you will finish the last 34 km drive and arrive at Xinduqiao, 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. 

Stay overnight in Xinduqiao.

Overnight in Xinduqiao
  • Tagong Grassland

    Tagong Grassland

  • Xinduqiao

    Spectacular view of xinduqiao

Day 4: Xinduqiao - Litang - Daocheng - Shangri-la Town | 450KM Driving

Today is the journey to Daocheng Yading, the ‘Last Shangri-La on Earth’!

In the morning, start today’s drive to Daocheng Yading. En route, you will cross the Kazila Mountain (4718m) and reach Litang, the highest city in the world at 4014 meters above sea level. When you walk through the streets lined with traditional Tibetan houses, you'll immerse yourself in the strong Tibetan atmosphere. The busling local market is the highlight of this town, where you can taste local snacks and witness the vibrant energy of the Tibetan community.

After passing through Litang, you’ll reach Haizi Mountain (4500m). Here is the largest site of the ancient glacier on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, consisting of 1145 lakes of various sizes, which seem like diamonds dropped by God on the plateau. You will marvel at the miraculous craftsmanship of nature.

Then, you will drive through Tibetan villages at Chitu River Valley and finally reach today’s destination - the Shangri-La Town in Daocheng County.

Stay overnight in Shangri-La Town (Daocheng County).

Overnight in Daocheng County
  • Views of Haizishan Mountain

    Views of Haizishan Mountain

  • daocheng county

    Daocheng is a good place for recharging yourself before heading towards Yading

Day 5: Daocheng Yading Scenic Area Day Tour

Today, you’ll be enchanted by the breathtaking beauty of Daocheng Yading!for a 220-kilometers’ drive. Mount Siguniang, also known as the Four Sisters Mountain, 

After breakfast, hop on the sightseeing bus to Chonggu Temple, the heart of Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve. Here, you will get a close-up view of the Xiannairi Snow Mountain with an altitude of 6,032 meters, as well as the grasslands, forests, and streams beneath the snow-capped peaks. These natural scenery together with colorful prayer flags and Mani stones form a dream-like scene.

Then, you will board the sightseeing bus again to Luorong Cattle Farm. Or, you can choose to trek for three hours (optional) to reach the farm. Here, you will appreciate another two sacred mountains of Daocheng Yading - Xianuo Duoji Mountain (also known as Mt. Chenadorje) and Yangmaiyong Mountain.

Beyond the sacred peaks, discover two hidden forest lakes in Daocheng Yading: Milk Lake, named for its milk-white waters, and the Five-Color Lake. The latter displays a rich palette of dark blue, light blue, green, red, and white under the sunlight, resembling a magnificent gem.

After the tour, get back to your hotel in Shangri-La Town.

Stay overnight in Shangri-La Town (Daocheng County).

Overnight in Daocheng County
  • daocheng

    Spectacular view of daocheng in autumn

  • Daocheng Yading Milk Lake

    Daocheng Yading Milk Lake

Day 6: Yading - Mangkang | 450KM Driving

Continue the scenic drive from Yading to Mangkang via Zimei Lake!for a 220-kilometers’ drive. Mount Siguniang, also known as the Four Sisters Mountain, is one of 

In the morning, you will start a scenic drive to Mangkang. On the way, you will drive through Maoya Prairie, a highland grassland where you can feel the vastness of the plateau and the lively energy of life.

Then, you will visit Zimei Lake, an alpine lake nestled snow-capped peaks. You can enjoy a tranquil boat ride, feeling the breeze on your face and listening to the soothing sounds of the lake.

After that, you will drive the last 184 kilometers southwest to Mangkang County.

Stay overnight in Mangkang.

Overnight in Mangkang
  • Haizi Mountain Zimei Lake

    Haizi Mountain Zimei Lake

  • Zimei Lakeside

    Zimei Lakeside

Day 7: Mangkang - Zogang - Baxoi | 360KM Driving

Today is an adventure through the steep mountains and canyons along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway and enjoy the spectacular sight of the turbulent Jinsha River, Lancang River and Nu River rushing down.

After breakfast, your overland journey continues to Zogong. First, you will pass through the most spectacular canyon area on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Three major rivers, the Jinsha River, the Lancang River, and the Nu River, run side by side within a 300-kilometer area, rushing out like wild beasts from the deep mountains and canyons of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. These three rivers meander through the canyons and eventually rush down to become the Yangtze River, the mother river that nourishes Chinese civilization.

After passing through the steep canyon, you will continue to drive westward and climb over 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 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.

Finally, you will arrive in Baxoi county. After checking in at the hotel, take some time to rest and relax.

Stay overnight in Baxoi. 

Overnight in Baxoi
  • The first bend of Jinsha River

    The first bend of Jinsha River

  • Nu River 72 Turns

    Nu River 72 Turns

Day 8: Baxoi - Ranwu Lake - Midui Glacier - Bomi | 220KM Driving

Indulge yourself in the picturesque landscapes of Eastern Tibet!

After breakfast, you will depart from Baxoi and drive to Ranwu Lake, the most beautiful 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.

Finally, you will reach today’s final destination, Bomi county in Nyingchi.

Stay overnight in Bomi.

Overnight in Bomi
  • Ranwu Lake

    Stunning view of Ranwu Lake

  • Midui Glacier, the most beautiful glacier in China

    Midui Glacier, the most beautiful glacier in China

Day 9: Bomi - Nyingchi | 240KM Driving

Continue your road journey to Nyingchi, the secret land of Eastern Tibet!

In the morning, you will first drive through Tongmai Bridge, which spans the river in Bom1 County. From the Tongmai Bridge, you can feel the rush of the river and the stunning scenery of the river valley and surrounding areas.

Then, you will drive 66 kilometers to Lulang International Tourism Town. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll to experience the perfect blend of Tibetan architecture and natural beauty.

Stay overnight in Lulang.

Overnight in Lulang
  • Tongmai Bridge

    Tongmai Bridge

  • 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 10: Nyingchi - Basum Tso Lake - Lhasa | 400KM Driving

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.

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.

Upon arrival in Lhasa, check in at your hotel and take a good rest. You've just completed the legendary overland journey from Sichuan to Tibet, so take some time to rest up.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Overnight in Lhasa
  • Basum Tso Lake

    Basum Tso Lake

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

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

Day 11: Lhasa Day Tour (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.

In the morning, you will collect your rental vehicle and start your first visit to the Potala Palace at the center of Lhasa city. Here, you can see extraordinary cultural and religious treasures and relics of Tibet. The most valuable collections of the 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 the Longwangtan Park at the foot of the Potala Palace. You’ll appreciate the majestic Potala Palace from a different perspective and engage in local Tibetan folk activities.

In the afternoon, you will head to the Jokhang Temple, the heart of Tibetan religion. 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 12: 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.

 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

Group SizeUS$/personBook Now
April, May, and November
2 Cars/8 Guests US$ 2,566 Book
3 Cars/12 Guests US$ 2,244 Book
4 Cars/16 Guests US$ 2,122 Book
5 Cars/20 Guests US$ 2,049 Book
6 Cars/24 Guests US$ 2,000 Book
7 Cars/28 Guests US$ 1,965 Book
September & October
2 Cars/8 Guests US$ 2,644 Book
3 Cars/12 Guests US$ 2,322 Book
4 Cars/16 Guests US$ 2,200 Book
5 Cars/20 Guests US$ 2,126 Book
6 Cars/24 Guests US$ 2,077 Book
7 Cars/28 Guests US$ 2,042 Book
  • iocn

    clients have booked this trip with us in 2025.

    Welcome you to join in us together.

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.

Price Inclusions:

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

China Temporary Driving License;

Comfortable/Luxury Rental Car with navigation system;

Unlimited Driving Kms based on per Itinerary;

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

All meals listed in the itinerary;

Local English-speaking tour guide service with Co-pilot driving service;

Comfortable local accommodation. Upgrades are available for an additional fee. (Single room supplement required when not sharing the room);

Airport pick up/drop off Service Charge;

Car’s Insurance: Collision Damage Waiver;

Child Seat if needed;

Medical Oxygen Supply although the trip;

Driver’s physical condition monitoring service;

All fuel, parking costs, and toll fees;

Unlimited drinking water supply during the trip;

Outdoor tables and chairs, outdoor cooking stove, and you can stop and make coffee at any time;

Personal insurance covers high altitude sickness;

24/7 emergency telephone support.

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 transfer to Lijiang and flight/train out of Tibet;

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 driver;

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.

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