20-Day Explore the Big Circuit of Wild Western Tibet

Tashi Delek! My old friend, welcome to Lhasa (3658m) again. As always, your hospitable local Tibetan guide and friendly driver are expecting you with infectiously welcoming smiles and auspicious Hada. Simply leave your luggage to them and hop on the comfy tour vehicle to your hotel in downtown Lhasa.

Free of annoying crowds, Romoche Monastery offers you a quieter and more intimate place for worship and exploration.

Walk past the prostrating pilgrims for the inner kora inside Ramoche; listen to the mantra chanting of the monks while admiring the vivid protectors of deities and opulent fresco. Most importantly, don’t miss out the 8-year-old life-size statue of Sakyamuni and go for the amazing vista of Potala Palace on the golden rooftop of the monastery.

Then, let’s delve into the backstreet of Barkhor Street. Tsamkhung Nunnery is just a haven of peace hidden in the busy Barkhor street. Quietly observe the life of Tibetan nuns living inside and sit the locals in Tsamkhung tea house for the delicious Tibetan noodles, momos, and sweet tea.

In the afternoon, follow your guide to explore the produce market - Tromsikhang where you will see a variety of local ingredients, like yak butter, barley, spices, yak meat,etc., for daily cooking; bargain with local vendors for the food needed for the cooking class coming next. Then, learn to make a typical Tibetan cuisine by following the cook’s demonstration at Tibetan Family Kitchen.

Drive eastwards to Datze County and follow around the 10km’s winding road up to the top of Wangbhuri mountain; the impressive Ganden Monastery (4300m) starts to reveal its massive size in full splendor, with iconic terraced complex sprawling the entire mountain ridge against the backdrop of spectacular Kyichu Valley.

Roam over the assembly hall and explore the debating courtyard and tomb of Tsongkhapa; you will be deeply impressed by the distinct Buddhist vibes and legends of Tsongkhapa. Then, follow the rugged trail for the famous Ganden Kora. You will encounter pilgrims burning juniper incense and giving offerings of Tsampa (roasted barley flour), the yaks occasionally grazing in the mountain, and vultures hovering overhead. the sense of holiness and an incredible vista of Kyichu Valley will leave you in awe.

Next, drive down to enchanting Tsubshi Village. You will be invited to a traditional village family to have a short stay here. Immersed yourself in rural life, and taste their silky hand-made sweet tea, and explore their simple house, smoky kitchen and their cattle shed; walk freely in the village and their village chapels and you may also have a chance to talk with villagers through our guide’s help. Finally, head back to Lhasa.

The journey from Lhasa to Shigatse (3900m) would be a feast to your eyes. After 2hrs’ drive, around the bend appears the glittering turquoise Yamdrok Lake; Following the winding road along the holy lake, we will reach Gampala pass (4790 m), where you can enjoy the stunning panorama of Yamdrok with the backdrop of snowy Mt. Nyenchen Khangsar (7191m). You may also pet the tamed Tibetan mastiff for a lovely shot.

After passing Nagarze, the massive Karola Glacier comes into sight. Stop briefly to view this incredible land glaciers cascading from the peak, right beside the highway. Then, the continuing journey will take us to Manla Reservoir where you can enjoy the turquoise lake and hang the auspicious prayer flags at Simila Pass (4200m). Soon, the awe-inspiring Gyantse looms ahead. Here we are. Gyantse, the third largest city connecting Lhasa with Shigatse.

Visit the famous Pelkor Monastery where multiple Tibetan Buddhism schools coexist in a single monastery; climb multi-story Gyantse Kumbum Stupa, the symbol of Gyantse County, for an amazing vista of Gyantse fortress. With more time to spend, you may take a leisurely stroll in the old street nearby. Shortly after one and a half hour drive, we will finally reach Shigatse(3900m), Tibet’s second largest city and the gateway to Mt. Everest.

Have an early start to visit the celebrated Tashilunpo Monastery, home to successive Panchen Lamas; roam over the alleys of this massive Buddhist academy and explore the tremendous golden statue of Future Buddha (26.2m high) and visit the golden stupas of Panchen Lamas and Amitabha Buddha; you may even join the monk’s chanting at assembly hall or quietly watch the monk debate at courtyard.

Then, we will leave Shigatse for EBC. The long yet exhilarating drive (350km) promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience to you. The idyllic farmland scene gradually gives way to the barren land and rolling Himalayan Range.

Feel the adrenaline rush as you follow the dozens of hairpin bends to awe-inspiring Gawu La Pass (5198m), where top 4 highest peaks along the Himalayas may take your breath away. Stay briefly here for an epic selfie with the giants of the world.

The final leg of the journey will take your past Rongbuk Monastery (5154m) to the tented camp of EBC (5200m) nearby. Enjoy your stay in a traditional yak tent; at night, if you dare to brave the cold, get out of the cozy tent to enjoy the stunning galaxy above the EBC which will make your jaw drop.

Have an early rise for the dramatic spectacle of sunrise over the summit of Mt. Everest; you will find that you are not alone for the long-awaited sunrise over the world’s highest peak, together with dozens of well-equipped photographers. Do bundle up for the biting wind outside.

Later, stroll to tour the legendary Rongbuk Monastery (5154m), the world’s highest Buddhist site where pious nuns and monks coexist. You will also be awarded a certificate for making it to EBC.

Say farewell to the lofty Mt. Everest through the rear mirror as the tour vehicle runs westward to Saga County. The route to Saga takes us right past the stunning Lake Peiku Tso, which lies at 4,591 meters above sea level, which is surrounded by the high mountains of the Himalayas. One of those high mountains is Mount Shishapangma (8,012m), the 14th highest peak in the world, and the only peak above 8,000 meters that is wholly inside Tibet. As we drive along the highway towards Saga, the mountain is clearly visible to the north.

Take a short time to explore the views of the Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley, the longest river in Tibet and the source of the mighty Brahmaputra River. Then we will head out on the road to drive the 493 kilometers to Lake Manasarovar and Darchen, at the foot of Mount Kailash.

The valley between the mountains of the Himalayas and the Gangdise ranges quickly changes from lush grasslands to a desolate desert valley, and the road to Darchen skirts along the edge of this as it passes through Zhongba County, the largest county in Shigatse Prefecture. The views of the massive peaks on either side of the valley are a stark contrast to the desolate landscape in the valley itself, and the scenery in this remote desert area is spectacular.

While the area may be remote, the road passes through several small Tibetan village communities, in both the grassland area and the desert area, and we will have the chance to stop briefly at some and get out to take a look.

Before reaching Darchen, we will pass through the small town of Hor Qu, on the northeastern shores of Lake Manasarovar. We will stop at the lakeshore for a while to enjoy the beauty of what is considered to be the most sacred lake in Tibet. Lying at an altitude of 4,590 meters, and is said to be the location where Maya Devi conceived Buddha.

Before it gets dark, we will make the last part of the journey to Darchen (4,575m), the small village community that lies at the foot of Mount Kailash.

Begin our first-day trek from the Darchen; for the initial 4km’s trek, try to find your own pace of walking, and follow the guide to reach prayer square. You will see fluttering prayer flags hanging around the two legs pagoda. Crossing the pagada, the trail leads to Lha-Chu Valley. From here on, the narrow Lha-chu River provides a steady supply of water all the way to Dira-puk Monastery.

After passing a series of ruined chörtens and a number of long mani (prayer) walls, the trail reaches a small bridge across the Lha-chu at 4710m. Just take your time between Chuku Monastery and Dira-puk Monastery as this stretch has some of the best scenery of the entire kora.

Head off to the east, crossing the Lha-chu again by bridge and climbing on to a moraine to meet the trail on the east bank. It is a long ascent to Drölma-la, so bring water to last a few hours.

Walking about two hours, you will reach a rocky expanse of Shiva-tsal (5330m). Pilgrims are supposed to undergo a symbolic death at this point, entering in the realm of the Lord of the Dead, until they reach the top of the Drölma-la and are reborn again.

About 30 minutes from Shiva-tsal the trail turns eastward for the completion of the ascent to the highest point of this train - 5630m Drölma-la. Weather permitting, most pilgrims and trekkers pause at the pass for a rest and refreshments before starting the steep descent. It takes approximately an hour to make the long and very steep 400m descent to the grassy banks of the Tuoji Lake.

About three hours on, grassy fields appear alongside the river affording those with tents endless spots to set up camp. An hour or so from the start of the camping fields is the Dzutul-puk Monastery (4790m).

From the monastery, the trail follows the river closely for an hour or so then climbs above the river and enters a narrow canyon. When the canyon narrows look for holes gouged into the cliff walls. These are not natural but made by pilgrims looking for holy stones. Also look for prayer flags festooned across the river, and in the far distance the blue waters of the lake Raksas Tal.

When the trail emerges onto the Barkha plain, it’s now an easy one-hour walk back to Darchen along a dirt road. And you will finish one of the most important pilgrimages in Asia.

After several hours of driving from Darchen, you will arrive at Tsada County. Roam over the Tholing Monastery, which is used to be the most important monastic complex in both Tsada and Ngari. The eroded stupas, mani walls, and murals bear a strong influence from Kashmir and Nepal. North of the monastery lies Sutlej Valley, with a spectacular sweeping view of Tsada clay forest afar not to be missed.

Then, our journey continues west to the magnificent Guge Kingdom. Eroded and barren, the otherworldly castle-like ruins of ancient Guge Kingdom is unlikely any attraction you’ve seen in Tibet. Follow your guide to explore the caves inside Guge and climb the stairs to its top for the epic vista of Sutlej River and Tseda Clay Forest; you can’t help but imagine the grand scene of Guge Kingdom during its heyday.

The day tour culminates as you enjoy and take fantastic shots of photogenic Guge Kingdom when the sun goes down. Finally, we drive back to Tseda county.

Today, we are expected to travel from Tsada to Shiquanhe town (also known as Gar). The 200km’s scenic drive would be your lifetime experience. You will be able to see the stunning Clay Forest formed by crustal movement in Xiangquan River Canyon. Shiquanhe town is the capital city of Ngari prefecture as well as the last big town during the big circuit tour of Ngari region. Later, Tourists can stroll the Shiquanhe town and buy some supplies for the following travel.

The focus of today’s tour will be the Pangong Tso Lake(4242m), or known as the “long-necked swan”. It is the world’s highest birds’ habitat. In the lake are over a dozen of islands and it is home to more than 20 kinds of wild birds, including Bar-headed goose, Brown-headed Gull, etc.

It is also possible to hire a boat to get out onto the lake for a closer view of the birds on Bird Island, though we will not be permitted to land anywhere on the islands to protect the breeding grounds.

On the way back to Shiquanhe Town, we will stop at Rutog County to visit the famous Rutog Rock Painting. The paintings involve the sun and moon, mountains, horses, cattle, antelopes, houses, and locals, vividly presenting the livelihood of ancient Tibetan nomads around Pangong Tso Lake. After that, we will head back to Shiquanhe Town. Tourists can buy some supplies for the following journey.

Starting from Shiquanhe Town, we will pass Gégyé and travel all the way to Gerze. Shortly after we venture into the Changthang grassland of Gégyé County, we will enjoy packs of wild Tibetan donkeys, Tibetan antelopes, and Tibetan gazelle, etc. Besides, a great number of nameless lakes, mountain passes, and snow-capped mountains make picturesque scenery. On the way, we can also see a big salt lake and trucks preparing to load supply from here. And finally finish the over 200km’s drive from the salt lake to Gerze.

As you enjoy the ride from Gerze to Wanpo South Village, you will have a rare chance to see a variety of rare wildlife that can only be seen in remote areas of western Tibet. Animals like Tibetan gazelle, marmot, and Black-necked crane, wild donkey, etc. will keep you company in Northern Ngari where there is little human presence.

After we pass Coqen County, tourists can see many colorful mountains, red, green, or yellow, largely due to the abundant mineral resources hidden inside these mountains. The road gets bumpier as we move from Coqen to Zhari Namco Lake. The lake is widely known as the largest saline lake with the highest altitude in Ngari region and its favorable environment produces Tibetan cashmere goats.

In the afternoon, we will be arriving at Tangra Yumco Lake, which is the holiest lake in Bon religion. Many believe that its holiness is equal to that of Mt. Kailash and Lake Manasarovar. It’s said that the color of the lake can change three times within a single day. Having finished visiting Tangra Yumco Lake, we would move to Wanpo South Village.

Facing Tangra Yumco Lake and Dagoer Snow Mountain, Wanpo South Village (4500m) is a secluded and picturesque place with a charming pastoral scene. The local villagers here are half-nomadic and half-farming. They cultivate barley, potatoes, Rapeseed and Bok Choy, etc. Such peaceful, harmonious and pastoral scene is extremely rare at such altitude. that’s why it’s called the “Wanpo Paradise”. Tourists can have a good rest in the village and explore this village. If you are interested, you may visit Dangchung Monastery in Wanpo North village.

After leaving Nima, you will find yourselves travel in the world of Tibetan gazelles and finally we will reach Serling Tso around noon after passing numerous small lakes. Serling Tso is the second largest saline lake in northern Tibet, only next to Namtso Lake. In Tibetan, it is believed to be a “Demon Lake”. Finally, you will reach Bangkog.

Have an early rise and pack your camera gears for the exhilarating ride to Namtso Lake(4718m), the world’s highest saline lake; as we approach Namtso Town, aim your camera for the packs of grazing Tibetan yaks and Tibetan yak tents scattered around the hillside and valley (in summer). Before we descend to the shore of Namtso Lake, you may take a glimpse of pristine Namtso from lofty Lagenla Pass(5190m).

At the Namtso Lake, stroll the heavenly lake, while hearing the cry of gulls (esp. in summer) and marveling at the picture-postcard Namtso Lake against snow-tipped Mt. Nyenchen Thanglha. It’s an utterly surreal experience.

Besides, never miss the photo opportunities with lovely white Yaks or follow your guide to explore Tashi Dor Island nearby, or quietly admire the devoted prostrating Tibetan pilgrims. Cherish the moments for the incredible sunset at Namsto; finally, we feel reluctant to say goodbye to Namtso Lake and head to Damxung.

The long drive must be tiring. To soothe your nerves, let’s stop by the most famous Yangpachen hot spring on the way back to Lhasa. Soak yourself in the refreshing and mineral-rich hot spring surrounded by lofty peaks. It feels like in heaven.

After the hot spring joy, our journey continues to Chimelong Nunnery (Phyirmil Lung Nunnery). Roam over the peaceful small nunnery and get an idea of different Buddhist studies in Tibet; you may also spot a sky burial site (Tibetan funeral site) in the distance.

Your guide will transfer you to the airport or train station for the next onward flight or journey.