15 Days Gama Valley Trekking in the Eastern Slope of Mt. Everest
Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Gama Valley Trek - Shigatse - Lhasa
Tour Code: TTT008
Tour Type: Join-in Small Group Tour (Min 1 to Around 12) i
- Guaranteed Departures: Our tour dates are fixed, ensuring each departure is guaranteed.
- Flexible Scheduling: If you can't find a date that suits your travel plans, no need to worry. Simply let us know your preferred travel time, and we'll create a custom schedule, inviting others to join you.
- Non-shopping Experience: Embrace a non-shopping adventure with us. We promise high-quality tours, ensuring an authentic and enriching experience in Tibet.
Tour Service: Tibetan Local Tour Guide & Driver
Time to Vist: April to October i
- The best time for the Gama Valley trek is from April to June and September to October. During these periods, favorable weather conditions provide excellent visibility, allowing tourists to fully appreciate the beauty of Mt. Everest and other mountain ranges. Additionally, the orchids are in full blossom from May to June, enhancing the overall scenic experience.
Trip Level: Moderate for Physically Fit i
- This Gama Valley trek is well-suited for individuals with an average level of fitness. As the trek spans 8 days on the eastern slope of Mount Everest, reaching an average altitude over 4500 meters, it is advisable to consult your doctor for guidance on your suitability for this high-altitude adventure.
Explore the unique natural wonders and extraordinary ethnic group in the eastern slope of Mount Everest in Tibet in one go.
------ Tibetan Travel Guru,Master Kungga Dundruk15 Days from USD2890
- This price is based on double occupancy;
- This price is based on 3-star accommodation level in low season;
- This price doesn’t include the international airfare.
Overview & Highlights of this Trip
This 15-day Lhasa to Gama Valley tour features an 8-day trek through the pristine Gama Valley nestled within the Mount Everest Nature Reserve. This unique adventure unfolds against a backdrop of breathtaking landscapes, allowing you to marvel at iconic peaks such as Mount Everest (the world's first), Mount Lhotse (the world's fourth), and Mount Makalu (the world's fifth). The Gama Valley itself is an unexplored haven on the eastern side of Mount Everest, which was praised as one of the Top Ten Landscapes in the world, encompassing vast virgin forests.
Experience the rapid transformation of natural scenery as you traverse from river valleys (over 2000 meters) to towering peaks (over 8000 meters) along the eastern side of the Himalayas within a mere few kilometers. Encounter diverse ecosystems, from broad-leaved and needle-leaved forests to brushwood, Alpine meadows, Alpine deserts, permanent snow zones, and the grandeur of majestic snow-capped mountains and glaciers.
Beyond the unparalleled trekking experience in what is praised as 'the most beautiful valley in the world,' you will also delve into the rich cultural and religious heritage of Lhasa and Shigatse. Gain a deeper understanding of Tibet, the enigmatic land on the northern side of Mount Everest.
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Highlight 1 of this Trip: Trek through the Gama Valley, recognized as one of the top ten classic trekking routes in the world.
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Highlight 2 of this Trip: Explore the natural beauty of the eastern slope of Mount Everest in Tibet.
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Highlight 3 of this Trip: Indulge in the combination of nature and the local Tibetan culture.
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Highlight 4 of this trip: Admire the Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the landmark of Lhasa.
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Highlight 5 of this Trip: Experience the daily life of local Tibetans in the traditional Tibetan Teahouse.
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Highlight 6 of this Trip: Visit the turquoise Yamdrok Lake and explore the local village life by the lakeside.
Itinerary Details
Trip at a Glance
Day 1: Lhasa Arrival
Day 2: Lhasa Day Tour
Day 3: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse
Day 4: Shigatse - Tingri - Chutang - Youpa Village
Day 5: Youpa - Showo-tso Pond Trek
Day 6: Showo-tso - Dolshang Trek
Day 7: Dolshang - Tangsung Viewing Platform Trek
Day 8: Tangsung Viewing Platform - Paltang Trek
Day 9: Paltang - Eastern Slope of Mt.Everest Base Camp - Paltang Trek
Day 10: Paltang - Tangsung Viewing Platform Trek
Day 11: Tangsung Viewing Platform - Tsosho-rim Trek
Day 12: Tsosho-rim - Lhundupling Village Trek
Day 13: Lhundupling Village - Zhaxizom - Shigatse
Day 14: Shigatse - Lhasa
Day 15: Lhasa Departure
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa
Welcome to Lhasa (3650m)!
When you arrive in Lhasa, whether by train or flight, our friendly Tibetan guide will greet you with a Hada (the traditional Tibetan ceremonial scarf) and warm blessings.
Then, the guide and the driver will take you to your hotel in downtown Lhasa. You may view the Yarlung Tsangpo River/Brahmaputra River (the Longest and largest river in Tibet) and Lhasa River.
After settling into your hotel, take some time to rest and adjust to the high altitude.
In the afternoon or evening, your guide will meet you with traditional Tibetan gifts, provide travel instructions, and introduce your group members.
If you need any help or specific needs, feel free to visit our service center at Lhasa Gang Gyan Hotel.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Day 2: 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.
Day 3: Lhasa to Shigatse via Gyantse 360 km (B,L)
In the morning, start the overland journey from Lhasa to Shigatse, which includes visits to Tibet's most beautiful lake, glacier, and a charming Tibetan village.
First, drive over the Gampala pass (4790 m) to catch a glimpse of Yamdrok-tso (4400m). The Yamdrok Lake is surrounded by many snow-capped mountains and in the distance you can have spectacular views of Holy Mount Nyenchen Khangsar (7191m), the highest mountain near Lhasa. Continue to explore the lakeshore from various viewpoints, and at the end of the lake, you could visit a local family in the village and have lunch with the locals.
Next, you will pass and enjoy the Korola Glacier on the roadside. It is the largest glacier in Tibet. As you see the ice tongue of the glacier climb the entire hillside, you will feel the magical power of nature.
Then, continue your journey to Gyantse. On the way, you will stop at Simila Mountain Pass, where you can hang prayer flags to pray for world peace and the health of your family.
After arriving in Gyantse, you can spend some time taking photos of the ancient city of Gyantse. From Gyantse to Shigatse, you will pass by green (in summer) and golden (in autumn) Tibetan barley fields and countless farms.
Finally, we arrive in Shigatse, the second largest city in Tibet. After checking in to the hotel, you can take a good rest and prepare for the next day’s trip to Mount Everest.
Stay overnight in Shigatse.
Day 4: Shigatse - Tingri - Chutang - Youpa Village
Today, you will reach the start point of the Gama Valley. Get ready for the lifetime trekking experience in the eastern slope of Mount Everest!
In the morning, we will take the tour vehicle and head to Tingri via Lhatse. On the way, you will stop by the famous Gawu La Pass (5198m). It is the best place to enjoy mind-blowing vistas of top 5 highest peaks (all above 8000m) along majestic Himalayas. Then we will follow the winding road to Youpa Village and acclimatize to the new altitude. You may get prepared for the trekking and yak registration.
Stay overnight in the guesthouse in Youpa Village
Day 5: Youpa - Showo-tso Pond (10km, 4677m)
Today is Trek Day 1 covering a distance of 10 kilometers.
After a tight sleep, we get up in the morning and put all the trekking gears and supply on the yak caravan. You can travel light and only pack things like water and food and other stuff. At around 11:00, our trek will begin from Youpa Village. With blinding sunshine and fluffy clouds above the head, we ascend gradually through steppes and rugged paths. The 10km’s trek will final lead you to the camping site around enchanting Showo-tso pond. There is a total of 900m ascent during the day trek.
Camping at the lakeside of Showo-tso
Day 6: Showo-tso - Showola Pass (4900m) - Dolshang (Orchid valley, 4030m, 14km)
Today is Trek Day 2 covering a distance of 14 kilometers.
At 10:00, we are about to leave camping site at Showotso. The following challenge is to climb over lofty Showo la pass and later descend to Dolshang valley via gushing brooks covered by vibrant unknown flowers and shrubs. Doshang forms the initial parts of Gama Valley and picturesque brooks surrounded by amazing snow-capped mountainshelp to breed massive colorful orchid flowers.Once getting down to the valley, you instantly find yourselfintoxicated by the alluring scent of orchid flowers. The stunning waterfalls,exuberant meadows, snowy peaks, etc make you wonder if you venture into a fairyland
Camping in Dolshang Valley
Day 7: Dolshang (Orchid valley) - Tsonang-tso - Xialong Pasture - Tangsung Viewing Platform (4510m,12km)
Today is Trek Day 3 covering a distance of 12 kilometers.
In the morning, we keep trekking upwards from Dolshangand pass through the pristine forest. While climbing through the ridge of the mountain, we can look back and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of Gama Valley. If we arrive at the right time, you can even capture the grandeur of Mt. Makalu (8,463m). We will reach Tsonang-tso lake at around noon. Cuddled by snow-tipped mountains, Tsonang-tsolake flows through Gama Valley via a underground outlet. The crystal-clear water face of Tsonang-tso reflects the spectacular symmetric image of surrounding snowy summits. After lunch, we need to pass another mountain pass to reach splendid Xialong Pasture, blanketed with colorful wild flowers. The final part of the trek will lead us to camping site of Tangsung Viewing Platform.
Camping around Tangsung Viewing Platform
Day 8: Tangsung Viewing Platform - Badang-Ega - Paltang (4950m, 11km)
Today is Trek Day 4 covering a distance of 11 kilometers.
Follow the zigzag trails we move down to the Badang, where the Ega prairie situated. During the descent, a looming gorge and glaciers start to take shape on your right side. The running water there makes up the source of of Gama Valley. We need to wade through rugged and gigantic rocks to make it to Paltang, the final camping site of the day trek. You can have a good rest and save energy for tomorrow’s challenging trek.
Camping in Paltang
Day 9: Paltang - Eastern Slope of Mt.Everest Base Camp(5310m) - Paltang (4950m,18km)
Today is Trek Day 5 covering a distance of 18 kilometers.
Today’s trek would be a tough one. Firstly, we trek to the base camp at the eastern slope of Mt. Everest. The initial part of the trek involves a difficult upward walk amid huge rocks with slope measuring 45 degree. From the slope you can gaze at the little-known Mt. Chomo Lonzo(7804m) and marvelous glaciers along eastern slope of Mt. Everest. After the trek is done, we will head back to Paltang. If you prefer having a good rest instead of trekking to Eastern Slope of Mt.Everest Base Camp, you can simply enjoy the picturesque view around the camping site in Paltang.
Camping in Paltang
Day 10: Paltang - Ega - Tangsung Viewing Platform ( 4510m, 14km)
Today is Trek Day 6 covering a distance of 14 kilometers.
Follow the same route and trek back to Tangsung Viewing Platform
Camping at Tangsung Viewing Platform
Day 11: Tangsung Viewing Platform - Tsosho - rim (5013m, 11km)
Today is Trek Day 7 covering a distance of 11 kilometers.
Treknorthward towards the camp site of Tsosho-rim below the majestic snow-feathered peaks; you can appreciate the epic vistas of
Mt. Everest(8844.43m), Mt. Lhotse (8516m), Mt. Makalu (8,463m) and a unclaimed peak(7000m).
Camping at Tsosho-rim
Day 12: Tsosho-rim - Nangma-la Pass (5344m) - Lhundupling Village (3990m, 21km)
Today is Trek Day 8 covering a distance of 21 kilometers.
Today, we will climb over two soaring mountain passes, one is the Nangma-la pass(5344m), the highest pass of entire trek, and the
other nameless one is above 5000m. Passing deep-blue Latsetso Lake, we will get to Lhundupling Village.
Stay overnight in the guesthouse of Lhundupling Village
Day 13: Lhundupling Village - Zhaxizom - Shigatse
Congratulations on completing the Gama Valley trek!
Pack all the stuff and enjoy the long ride back to Shigatse. On the way, you can enjoy again the lofty mountain peaks along Himalayan Range. After the arrival in Shigatse, have a dinner and shower and enjoy the last night in Shigatse.
Stay overnight in hotel in Shigatse
Day 14: Shigatse - Lhasa (B)
Say Goodbye to the central Tibet and back to Lhasa.
Today, we will drive back to Lhasa by following Yalong Valley. You can stand on the viewing platform and view the vast Yalong River bed. Finally the guide will transfer you back to your hotels in Lhasa.
Stay overnight in Lhasa
Day 15: 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.
Tour Cost & Schedule in 2024
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);
Local tour transfers, 5-29 seats 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 Tibetan local tour guide shared in your group (For prices of tour guides in other languages, please inquire);
Comfortable Hotel Accommodations;
Free shuttle between Lhasa Railway Station/Lhasa Gonggar 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 and 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;
Porters and Yaks for carrying luggage during Gama Valley trek;
Tips for the guide and 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.
Lhasa to Gama Valley Trip Notes
To ensure a smooth journey, it is recommended to book the tour at least 15-20 days before 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.
First, you need to get a Chinese Visa. With the scanned copy of your Chinese Visa and valid passport, you can proceed to apply for the Tibet Travel Permit.
Additionally, for this overland tour from eastern Tibet to the Everest Base Camp, you’ll need other local travel documents, such as the Alien’s Travel Permit for visiting areas outside Lhasa.
But don’t worry - We’ll handle the application for the Tibet Travel Permit and other necessary local travel documents as part of our tour package. Simply follow our guidance, and there’s no need to worry about the process.
Once you book this tour with us, simply provide scanned copies of your Chinese Visa and a valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity). If you traveling with a work visa, you will need proof of employment in China, and a study visa requires proof of your study in China.
Generally, it takes 7-14 working days to process the Tibet Travel Permit. Once the permit is successfully issued, we will mail it to your address in China 3-5 days before your Tibet trip, ensuring you can smoothly board the train or flight to Tibet.
Avoiding winter, the best times for trekking through the Gama Valley are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these seasons, visibility is optimal, offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. Moreover, there is less mist in the forested areas compared to the rainy season and early winter. The period from May to June is especially enchanting, as vibrant flowers bloom, turning the green forests into a kaleidoscope of colors and infusing the air with delightful scents, creating a truly invigorating experience for your senses.
The classic trek through the Gama Valley on the eastern slope of Mount Everest takes 8 days.
Day1: Youpa - Showo-tso Pond (10km, 4677m)
Day2: Showo-tso - Showola Pass (4900m) - Dolshang (Orchid valley, 4030m, 14km)
Day3: Dolshang (Orchid Valley) - Tsonang-tso - Xialong Pasture - Tangsung Viewing Platform (4510m,12km)
Day4: Tangsung Viewing Platform - Badang-Ega - Paltang (4950m, 11km)
Day5: Paltang - Eastern Slope of Mt.Everest Base Camp(5310m) - Paltang (4950m,18km)
Day6: Paltang - Ega - Tangsung Viewing Platform ( 4510m, 14km)
Day7: Tangsung Viewing Platform - Tsosho - rim (5013m, 11km)
Day8: Tsosho - rim - Nangma-la Pass (5344m) - Lhundupling Village (3990m, 21km)
Yes, it is possible to rent a porter along with a yak or a horse to carry your luggage during the trek. Typically, you can share the cost with fellow group members who also require a porter. Please inform your guide in advance if you need this service.
Warm clothes are essential, even in summer nights, so pack a warm jacket, sweater, and pants.
Layering is advisable for nighttime, but during the daytime, lighter clothing is preferable for strenuous trekking.
Avoid over-exertion by choosing lighter clothing suitable for the warmer climate from spring to fall.
Heavy-duty hiking boots are a necessity for the rough and treacherous trails in Tibet.
Ensure good grip with your hiking boots as the mountainous terrain can be challenging.
Wear thick socks to prevent blisters caused by boots rubbing against your feet.
Consider bringing or purchasing a sturdy hiking stick for the trek, especially on slippery or stony trails.
Essential accessories include a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, gloves, and a water bottle.
Protect your skin from the sun, which can easily burn at higher altitudes with thinner atmospheres.
Carry high-energy snacks to replenish energy quickly during the trek, as the body burns energy faster at high altitudes compared to sea level.
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