Xinjiang and Tibet, the most remote regions of China in far west, both have exotic ethnic culture and mysterious religions for that pround for thousands of years.
Connecting Xinjiang and Tibet, the Xinjiang-Tibet Highway (G219 National Highway) is the world’s highest road, with an average altitude of over 4,500 meters above sea level. Traveling this route, whether from Xinjiang to Tibet or vice versa, is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Over 80% of tourists choose to visit Xinjiang and Tibet via the G219 National Highway. Let’s explore what makes the journey along the Xinjiang-Tibet Highway so impressive!
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Kashgar, a vital transfer hub of the ancient Silk Road, serves as the starting point for an unforgettable Xinjiang-Tibet tour.
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Karakoram Mountains in Yecheng County is a stunning range famous for its breathtaking peaks and diverse landscapes.
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Jieshan Daban, the highest mountain pass on the route at 5,347 meters above sea level, signifies the world’s highest road section, which has an average altitude of 4,663 meters.
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Shiquanhe, the gateway to Tibet on the Xinjiang-Tibet Highway, offers stunning landscapes in this wild and beautiful region.
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Mount Kailash, a sacred peak revered in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon, stands at 6,638 meters and is considered one of the most spiritually significant mountains in the world.
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Lake Manasarovar, nestled near Mount Kailash, is a revered sacred lake known for its crystal-clear waters and deep spiritual importance in Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
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Saga is a crucial stop on the way to Tibet, offering a glimpse into local culture and breathtaking mountain views.
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Everest Base Camp, located on the northern side of Mt. Everest, is the best place to experience the world’s highest peak up close.
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Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet, is renowned for its rich history and the impressive Tashilhunpo Monastery.
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Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet's sacred lakes, captivates with its striking turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain scenery.
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Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet, is home to iconic landmarks like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage.
Recommended Xinjiang Tibet Overland Tours
There is no better way to visit Xinjiang and Tibet than by taking an overland trip along the G219 National Highway. Although the journey is almost 3,000 kilometers in total and the most challenging way to reach Tibet, the adventure offers unparalleled landscapes through Xinjiang and Tibet, providing great travel experiences and lifetime memories.
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11 Days Lhasa to Kashgar Overland Adventure with Everest Base Camp Tour
Travel Route: Lhasa - Gyangtse - Shigatse - Everest Base Camp - Saga - Darchen - Zanda - Shiquanhe - Rutog - Duoma - Sanshili Yingfang - Yechen - Kashgar
“This 11-day Lhasa to Kashgar overland tour will take you travel along the G217 National Highway from Tibet to Xinjiang with one night stay at Everest Base Camp to explore the majestic Himalayas in the Tibetan Plateau.”
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14 Days Lhasa to Kashgar Overland Tour with Mount Kailash Kora
Travel Route: Lhasa - Gyangtse - Shigatse - Everest Base Camp - Saga - Darchen - Kailash Trek - Darchen - Zanda - Shiquanhe - Rutog - Duoma - Sanshili Yingfang - Yecheng - Kashgar
“This 14-day Lhasa to Kashgar overland tour includes a day trip to Everest Base Camp in Tibet and a scared 3-day Kailash kora with stunning landscapes along the Xinjiang Tibet Highway.”
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18 Days Classic Kashgar to Lhasa Overland Tour
Travel Route: Kashgar - Yecheng - Dahong Liutan - Duoma - Rutog - Shiquanhe - Zanda - Darchen - Kailash Trek - Darchen - Saga - Gyirong - Tingri - Everest Base Camp - Tingri - Shigatse - Gyantse - Lhasa
“This 18-day Kashgar to Lhasa overland tour takes you to travel along the world’s highest Xinjiang Tibet Highway, featuring a sacred Kailash Kora and a visit to Everest Base Camp in one go.”
More Xinjiang Tibet Tour Packages
It is also available to discover the beauty of Xinjiang and Tibet by flying with a convenient transfer in cities such as Xi'an or Xining, since there are no direct flights from Urumqi to Lhasa. Explore more tour options that include Tibet and Xinjiang, complete with hassle-free flight transfers!
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13 Days Tibet and Silk Road Tour from Xian
Travel Route: Lhasa - Xian - Dunhuang - Turpan - Urumqi - Kashgar - Urumqi
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24 Days Tibet and Southern Xinjiang Adventure
Travel Route: Lhasa - Tsedang - Shigatse - Sakya - Mt. Everest - Xian - Dunhuang - Turpan - Korla - Mingfeng - Hetian - Kashgar - Urumqi
Why Choose Our Xinjiang Tibet Tour?
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Tibet Local Travel Agent
Based in Lhasa, we know Tibet better than others and provide first-hand travel services with good cooperators in Xinjiang.
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Hassle-free Xinjiang Tibet Travel
We take care of everything from tour planning to the end of your trip, so you can just relax and enjoy your journey to Tibet.
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Guaranteed Tibet Travel Permit
Once you book your Tibet tour with us, we’ll take care of the travel document applications to ensure a smooth journey for you.
Let’s Plan Your Xinjiang Tibet Tour Now!

If you are planning to enjoy a Xinjiang Tibet tour, yet have no ideas of how to sort it out the details, no worries! We would like to hear your tour plan and offer free professional consultancy and viable solutions. Please feel free to contact us.
Xinjiang Tibet Tour FAQs & Travel Tips
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What travel documents are required for a Xinjiang Tibet tour?
First of all, you need to obtain a Chinese Visa in advance. No other travel documents are required for visiting Xinjing. But you need to apply for the Tibet Travel Permit before entering the Tibetan Autonumous Region. Some more local travel documents are required for visiting remote areas like Ngari and Mount Everest region in Tibet.
But don’t worry. Our Xinjiang Tibet tour packages cover all necessery travel docuements for your trip. Once you book your tour with us, simply provide the scanned copies of your passport and Chinese Visa, and we will do the rest for you.
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When is the best time to visit Xinjiang and Tibet?
The best time to visit Xinjiang and Tibet is from June to September. During these months, the weather is warm, and the scenery is at its most beautiful. In Xinjiang, the grasslands are lush and the lakes are full as spring transitions into summer, making it perfect for enjoying nature. Meanwhile, the Tibetan plateau enjoys sunny days and mild temperatures, ideal for visiting attractions in the holy city of Lhasa.
If you’re interested in a trip to Mount Everest, it is recommended to visit in autumn as the weather in Tibet is pleasant with less rainfall, so you can enjoy a clear view of Mount Everest as well as the Himalayas.
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Is it safe to travel to Xinjiang and Tibet?
It is very safe to visit Xinjiang and Tibet. Both regions have numerous tourist attractions and solid security measures, so you can feel secure about your safety and belongings. The locals are friendly and eager to welcome visitors from around the world.
Choosing a reliable local travel agency is a good way to enhance your safety during your trip. Additionally, be aware of the risk of altitude sickness in the high-altitude areas of Tibet.
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Should I travel from Xinjiang to Tibet or vice versa?
If you plan to visit both Xinjiang and Tibet, it's best to go to Tibet first and then Xinjiang.
Tibet features breathtaking plateau scenery and a rich Buddhist culture, offering a peaceful atmosphere that can truly uplift your spirit. While driving along the highway from Lhasa to Kashgar, you'll discover some of Tibet's highlights, from the Potala Palace in Lhasa and Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse to the sacred Yamdrok Lake and the magnificent Everest Base Camp. You’ll also pass by Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, which are considered sacred by four different religions.
After experiencing Tibet, you can head to Xinjiang to enjoy its breathtaking landscapes and delicious food, giving you a true feast for the eyes and taste buds. This order will enhance your travel experience and leave you enriched both mentally and visually.
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What to pack for a Xinjiang Tibet tour?
Both Xinjiang and Tibet experience significant temperature changes between day and night, so it’s important to be well-preared and bring warm clothing for your Xinjiang Tibet tour. It’s wise to pack a thick coat whenever you take a trip to Xinjiang and Tibet.
Sun protection is also essential for visiting Xinjiang and Tibet because of the strong ultraviolet rays at high-altitude areas. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats to shield your skin from sunburn.
Since you’ll have a lot of walking during your daytime sightseeing, it’s essential to wear comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes.
For electronic devices, bring your mobile phone, camera, and headphones as needed. Additionally, consider carrying spare batteries or a power bank to keep your devices charged throughout your journey.
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What cultural taboos should I be aware of when travling in Xinjiang and Tibet?
In Xinjiang, many areas are home to ethnic groups like the Uyghurs, who have different eating habits and religious beliefs. When interacting with locals, be respectful of their customs, such as refraining from entering mosques without permission. You should also dress modestly, especially in religious sites.
In Tibet, respecting the local Tibetan culture and religion is also important. When visiting Tibetan monasteries, follow local etiquette, such as turning prayer wheels clockwise and avoiding touching holy objects. Additionally, be mindful not to take photos of Tibetan monks or locals without permission.
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