7-Day Trek from Ganden to Yamato Nomadic Trail
This 7-day adventure combines Tibet’s spiritual heart with a scenic highland trek through the lesser-known Ganden to Yamato Nomadic Trail. Explore Lhasa’s iconic sites like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple before heading into the wild, trekking past monasteries, alpine valleys, and remote nomadic villages. Ideal for travelers seeking both culture and nature, this route offers a rewarding introduction to Tibetan landscapes and local life.
Why This Is a Very Good Trek for You
This route is perfect for travelers seeking authentic Tibetan experiences without extreme high-altitude demands. Unlike crowded treks near Everest, this trail gives you direct interaction with nomadic families, passes through serene landscapes, and connects deeply with Tibetan spiritual heritage at Ganden. It’s a low-tourist, high-reward trek with cultural depth, natural beauty, and spiritual charm.
Tour Highlights
• Discover the cultural treasures of Lhasa, including Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Sera Monastery
• Visit the majestic Ganden Monastery, one of the great Gelugpa seats
• Trek across stunning alpine valleys, ridges, and nomadic pastures
• Camp under the stars near remote villages like Lhapu and Yamato
• Experience authentic nomadic Tibetan life far from tourist crowds
• Ideal balance of cultural immersion and outdoor adventure

Arrival in Lhasa: Upon arrival at Lhasa’s airport or train station, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Lhasa, Tibet’s spiritual and cultural capital. Today is dedicated to acclimatization as you adjust to the high altitude. Take the day to rest and relax to avoid any altitude sickness, allowing your body to adjust. You can explore the city at your leisure or simply enjoy the serene Tibetan surroundings. •Overnight: Lhasa •Altitude: 3,650 m
Explore Potala Palace & Jokhang Temple: Today, you’ll delve into the heart of Tibetan Buddhism and culture with visits to two of Lhasa’s most iconic landmarks: Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. •In the morning, visit the majestic Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Explore its intricate architecture, sacred chambers, and breathtaking views of the city. The palace is a symbol of Tibetan history and a UNESCO World Heritage site. •In the afternoon, visit Jokhang Temple, considered the holiest temple in Tibet. Inside, you’ll find pilgrims from all over Tibet, prostrating and offering prayers at the temple’s main shrine. Walk through Barkhor Street, the traditional circumambulation route around the temple, bustling with monks, locals, and pilgrims. •Overnight: Lhasa •Altitude: 3,650 m •Driving: Minimal (within the city)
Norbulingka or Drepung Monastery & Sera Monastery: This morning, choose to visit either Norbulingka, the former summer palace of the Dalai Lama, or Drepung Monastery, once one of the largest and most influential monasteries in Tibet. •At Norbulingka, you’ll walk through the beautiful gardens and learn about its significance in Tibetan culture and history. Alternatively, Drepung Monastery offers a fascinating experience, with its many prayer halls and rooms filled with monks, where you can observe daily religious activities. •In the afternoon, head to Sera Monastery, known for its lively debates among monks. Watch as monks engage in theological discussions on various topics, using a distinctive hand-clapping technique to emphasize points. This is one of the most unique aspects of Tibetan monastic life. •Overnight: Lhasa •Altitude: 3,650 m •Driving: Minimal
Drive to Ganden Monastery & Trek to Lhapu Village: After breakfast, we’ll drive towards Ganden Monastery, located on the eastern side of the Lhasa River Valley, around 60 kilometers from Lhasa. Ganden is one of Tibet’s most sacred and oldest monasteries, established by the founder of the Gelugpa tradition, Je Tsongkhapa. •Once at Ganden, enjoy the tranquil surroundings and breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below. Then, begin your trek, following a path that winds through the beautiful Tibetan highlands and offers vistas of rugged peaks, grasslands, and scattered nomadic settlements. •The trek will take you to Lhapu village, where you’ll camp for the night, surrounded by nature and Tibetan nomads. This is a perfect spot for stargazing and enjoying the serenity of the Tibetan plateau. •Trek Distance: ~8 km •Overnight: Camping in Lhapu Village •Altitude: 4,300 m (Ganden), 4,200 m (Lhapu) •Driving: ~1.5 hours (60 km)
Trek to Yamato Nomadic Trail: After breakfast, embark on a trek through the stunning Tibetan landscape as you head towards Yamato, a remote nomadic village. You’ll trek across vast grasslands, passing by herders with their yaks and sheep, and enjoy the untouched natural beauty of the region. Along the way, you’ll cross several ridges that offer spectacular views of the distant mountain ranges and valleys. •This part of the trek will take you to Yamato, a peaceful nomadic village where life has remained unchanged for centuries. Here, you’ll camp for the night, experiencing authentic nomadic Tibetan life and culture. •Trek Distance: ~8–10km •Overnight: Camping in Yamato •Altitude: 4,500 m
Trek to Drupshi Village & Return to Lhasa: On the final day of the trek, enjoy a short morning trek from Yamato to Drupshi village, where you’ll witness the fascinating rural Tibetan lifestyle. After the trek, we’ll drive back to Lhasa. •The drive back to Lhasa takes approximately 2 hours, where you’ll have time to rest and reflect on your journey. Spend the last evening in Lhasa, soaking in the city’s spiritual ambiance before your departure. •Trek Distance: ~10 km •Overnight: Lhasa •Altitude: 3,650 m •Driving: ~2 hours
Departure from Lhasa: After breakfast, your guide will transfer you to the airport or train station for your onward journey, completing your 6-day spiritual and trekking adventure in Tibet. •Altitude: 3,650 m •Driving: Minimal (transfer to the airport)
Inclusive Tour Services (Includes) 1.Tibet Travel Permit – All necessary documentation arranged for your entry into Tibet. 2.Private Transportation – Safe, clean, and comfortable vehicle suited to your group size, with a dependable local driver. 3.Entrance Fees – Admission tickets to all tourist attractions listed in the itinerary. 4.Expert Local Guide – Professional English-speaking tour guide throughout the trip. 5.Accommodation – Based on your preferences. Let us know your desired hotel category when you inquire, and we’ll select the best-value options accordingly. 6.Meals – All meals specified in the itinerary are included. 7.Travel Insurance – Coverage for accidents and casualties during the tour. 8.Bottled Water – Two bottles of mineral water per person per day for your comfort.
Exclusive Tour Services (Not Included) 1.Chinese Visa – Not included. If you require assistance with the visa application process, feel free to contact us for guidance. 2.International Flights – Airfare to and from China or Nepal is not covered. 3.Travel to/from Tibet – Flight or train tickets into or out of Tibet are excluded. If you need help with booking, we’re happy to assist upon request. 4.Single Room Supplement – Tour pricing is based on double occupancy (twin-sharing rooms). If you prefer a private room or room-sharing is unavailable, an additional supplement applies. Please consult your travel advisor for exact rates. 5.Meals Outside Itinerary – Lunch and dinner while in cities, as well as all meals outside of Lhasa and Shigatse, are at your own expense. 6.Tips & Gratuities – Tips for the guide and driver are not included. We suggest budgeting around $7 USD per person per day for both, based on the quality of service received. 7.Force Majeure & Emergencies – Any extra costs due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g. natural disasters, traffic restrictions, lost items, visa or flight delays/cancellations, travel insurance, medical treatment, etc.) are not covered. 8.Personal Expenses – Items of a personal nature such as laundry, souvenirs, phone usage, and similar are not included.
Tour FAQ
Tour Gallery











