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 9-day Trek from Tsurpu to Yangbachen

Embark on a 9-day journey blending sacred Tibetan culture and scenic high-altitude trekking. Explore Lhasa’s iconic sites before venturing into the wild landscapes of the Tsurpu to Yangpachen trail. This moderate trek passes through remote valleys, traditional villages, and monastic centers, ending with a rejuvenating visit to Yangpachen Hot Springs before returning to Lhasa.

 

Tour Highlights:

    •    Visit UNESCO sites: Potala Palace & Jokhang Temple

    •    Witness Buddhist debate at Sera Monastery

    •    Explore the ancient seat of the Karmapa lineage at Tsurpu Monastery

    •    Trek through pristine alpine landscapes, high passes, and nomadic herder areas

    •    Stay in remote camps surrounded by wildflowers, yaks, and dramatic vistas

    •    Discover Dorje Ling Nunnery & Yangpachen Monastery

    •    Relax in Yangpachen Hot Springs after the trek

Family Illustration Traveling

Arrival in Lhasa (3,650 m); Welcome to the Roof of the World! Upon arrival at Lhasa Gongkar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station, you’ll be warmly greeted by your local Tibetan guide and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. Today is all about rest and acclimatization. It’s important to take it easy as your body adjusts to the high altitude. If you’re feeling up to it, you can enjoy a gentle walk around the Barkhor Street area near your hotel to observe local life and the Tibetan devotion in full flow. Overnight: Lhasa

Lhasa Sightseeing – Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Market, Potala Palace; Today you begin your immersion into Tibetan culture and spirituality. Start with a visit to Jokhang Temple, the holiest shrine in Tibetan Buddhism. Pilgrims travel from all corners of Tibet to prostrate in front of this sacred site. Afterward, stroll around the Barkhor Market, a bustling pilgrimage circuit lined with traditional shops, incense, and prayer wheels. In the afternoon, visit the awe-inspiring Potala Palace, once the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. This UNESCO World Heritage Site rises dramatically above the city and is filled with intricate murals, sacred relics, and golden stupas. Overnight: Lhasa

Lhasa Sightseeing – Drepung and Sera Monasteries; Today you will explore two of Tibet’s most significant monastic universities. Begin at Drepung Monastery, once the largest in the world, housing over 10,000 monks in its prime. Nestled in the foothills west of Lhasa, Drepung is a serene and sprawling complex. In the afternoon, head to Sera Monastery, famous for its monk debates. In the courtyard, monks engage in dynamic discussions of Buddhist philosophy through expressive gestures and rhythmic claps—an experience that’s as educational as it is unique. Overnight: Lhasa

Lhasa to Tsurpu Monastery (4,300 m); Leave the city behind as you drive northwest into the Drowolung Valley to reach Tsurpu Monastery, the historical seat of the Karmapa lineage of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. Set in a rugged valley and flanked by cliffs and prayer flags, the monastery has a powerful presence. Explore its chapels, scriptures, and prayer halls before preparing for the trek ahead. Overnight: Tsurpu camping Distance: ~70 km | Driving time: 2–3 hrs

Trekking Day 1 – Tsurpu to Leten (4,500 m); Your trekking adventure begins! Depart from Tsurpu, following a trail that leads you into verdant valleys dotted with yaks, alpine flowers, and herders’ tents. The trail gradually ascends through high meadows to the campsite at Leten, a peaceful location offering views of snow-capped ridges and rolling pastures. Trekking Distance: ~11 km | Time: 4–5 hrs Altitude Gain: +200 m Overnight: Camping at Leten

Trekking Day 2 – Leten to Bartso via Lasar La Pass (5,300 m); Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. Hike steadily upward through rocky terrain to reach the Lasar La Pass (5,300 m). From the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Nyenchen Tanglha mountain range and vast grasslands below. Descend slowly to Bartso, a small village with stone houses and pastureland, where you’ll camp for the night. Trekking Distance: ~15 km | Time: 6–7 hrs Maximum Altitude: 5,300 m Overnight: Camping at Bartso

Trekking Day 3 – Bartso to Dorje Ling Nunnery (4,700 m); Continue your journey through a high-altitude valley filled with blooming wildflowers (in summer), grazing yaks, and distant snow peaks. After crossing a minor ridge, arrive at Dorje Ling Nunnery, a peaceful retreat nestled in the hills. The nuns maintain a simple but beautiful spiritual life here. You may have the opportunity to interact with the nuns or join them in evening prayers. Trekking Distance: ~12 km | Time: 5–6 hrs Overnight: Camping near the nunnery

Trekking Day 4 – Dorje Ling to Yangpachen Monastery & Hot Springs – Drive to Lhasa; Your final day on the trail leads you to Yangpachen Monastery, known for its connection to the Shamarpa reincarnation line. Soon after, you’ll reach Yangpachen Hot Springs, a geothermal oasis where you can soak your tired legs in naturally heated pools with views of distant snowy peaks. After lunch, drive back to Lhasa, arriving by late afternoon. Trekking Distance: ~8 km | Time: 3 hrs Drive Distance: ~90 km | Time: 2–3 hrs Overnight: Lhasa

Departure from Lhasa; Your Tibetan journey concludes today. Your guide will transfer you to Lhasa Gongkar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station depending on your onward travel. Take with you memories of sacred monasteries, high passes, warm encounters, and the quiet beauty of the Tibetan plateau.

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

1️⃣    What is the best time to visit Tibet?
The best seasons to visit Tibet are from April to June and September to November. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and excellent visibility for iconic sights like the Potala Palace, Everest Base Camp, and Namtso Lake. July and August are also popular due to warmer weather, but these months bring more rain and larger crowds

2️⃣   Will I need a visa for China and a permit for Tibet?    
Yes. To enter Tibet, international travelers need:  
🅰️ A Chinese Visa (obtained from a Chinese embassy or consulate). 
🅱️   A Tibet Travel Permit, which is arranged by your Tibetan tour operator Without both, you cannot

3️⃣  How long does it take to process the Tibet Travel Permit?
The Tibet Travel Permit takes about 10 to 15 working days to process. It’s best to book your tour at least 1 month in advance to allow time for the permit and travel arrangements.

4️⃣   What is the difference between a Group Chinese Visa and an Individual Chinese Visa?
  An Individual Chinese Visa is issued directly by Chinese embassies and is typically used for general travel across China.
  A Group Chinese Visa is usually arranged in conjunction with a Tibet tour from Nepal. It’s a single-entry visa issued to a group (5 people), all traveling together, with one shared visa document.
Note: If you’re entering Tibet from Nepal, you must use a Group Chinese Visa, even if you already have an individual visa—it will be invalid for this entry.

6️⃣.  What’s most important to prepare for a Tibet trip?
 
   Clothing: Layered clothes for changing weather, warm jacket, gloves, hat, and sunglasses.
   Health: Altitude meds, sunscreen, basic first aid kit.
   Electronics: Power bank, universal adapter, camera.
   Offline Maps & VPN: Internet restrictions apply; Google, Facebook, and WhatsApp may not work without a VPN.
   Cash & Payment Apps: See more below.

7️⃣.  What are the highest altitude areas visited by travelers in Tibet?
 
    •    Everest Base Camp (5,200 m / 17,060 ft): The highest accessible point for most tourists.
    •    Mount Kailash Trek (Up to 5,630 m / 18,471 ft): For pilgrims and trekkers.
    •    Namtso Lake (4,718 m / 15,479 ft): One of the highest saltwater lakes.
    •    Gyatso La Pass (5,248 m / 17,218 ft): En route to EBC.
    •    Tanggula Pass (5,072 m / 16,640 ft): Highest point on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.

8️⃣    How do I pay for things in Tibet during my tour?
 
    •    Cash (RMB/Yuan) is still widely used, especially in remote areas.
    •    WeChat Pay and Alipay are common in cities like Lhasa and Shigatse. International travelers can now link foreign cards to these apps.
    •    ATMs are available in major towns (Bank of China, ICBC), but not reliable in rural areas.
Tip: Always carry some cash for local markets, small restaurants, and rural stops.

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