10-Day Trek from Tsepo Gang to Samye Monaster
This journey combines the spiritual treasures of Lhasa with a rare highland trek through ancient hermit trails. After visiting iconic sites like Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, embark on a 5-day wilderness trek from Tsepo Gang to Samye Monastery—Tibet’s first and most sacred monastery. Pass through hidden valleys, meditation caves, and silent ridgelines once walked by mystics and yogis. Ideal for travelers seeking spiritual depth, solitude, and a truly authentic Tibetan adventure.
Tour Highlights
• Walk an ancient meditation path used by hermits and yogis from Tsepo Gang to Samye.
• Visit Tibet’s most iconic sites: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Drepung, and Sera Monasteries.
• Meditate in the ancient caves of Drak Yerpa and Yemalong, where the great masters sought enlightenment.
• Camp under the stars beside river valleys, forests, and hidden mountain passes far from tourist crowds.
• Conclude your pilgrimage at Samye Monastery, the first and oldest monastery in Tibet.
• Experience a rare blend of urban sacred sites, secluded wilderness, and village life.

Arrival in Lhasa (3,650m): Arrive at Lhasa airport or train station. Warm Tibetan welcome from your guide and transfer to hotel. Rest and acclimatize. Overnight: Lhasa Travel: Pickup only Altitude: 3,650m
Potala Palace & Jokhang Temple: Begin your journey with a guided tour of Potala Palace, the spiritual fortress of the Dalai Lamas. In the afternoon, visit Jokhang Temple, the heart of Tibetan pilgrimage, followed by a walk along Barkhor Street. Overnight: Lhasa Altitude: 3,650m
Drepung & Sera Monasteries: Explore Drepung Monastery: once the largest in the world, nestled on a hillside with panoramic views. In the afternoon, witness monks debate Buddhist philosophy at Sera Monastery. Overnight: Lhasa Altitude: 3,650m
Drak Yerpa Caves, Drive to Natol, Trek to Tsepo Gang: Start the day at Drak Yerpa, a serene hillside filled with meditation caves. After a short drive to Natol village, begin your trek. Hike through a gentle valley and forested trail to Tsepo Gang, a traditional yogi retreat site. Overnight: Camping at Tsepo Gang Trek: ~6 km | 3 hrs Altitude: Start 3,900m – Camp ~4,100m
Trek from Tsepo Gang to Tabding: Follow the hidden trail along rocky ridges and green pastures. Small shrines dot the landscape as you gradually descend into the broad valley of Tabding. Overnight: Camping at Tabding Trek: ~10 km | 5–6 hrs Altitude: ~4,200m
Trek from Tabding to Ow Tsang: Climb gently through meadows and juniper trees toward Ow Tsang, a peaceful campsite surrounded by high peaks. Yaks and wildflowers line the trail. Overnight: Camping at Ow Tsang Trek: ~12 km | 6 hrs Altitude: ~4,400m
Trek from Ow Tsang to Qatang: A scenic high trail winds over a shoulder pass and descends into the hidden valley of Qatang. This is a secluded world where only nomads and pilgrims walk. Overnight: Camping at Qatang Trek: ~10 km | 5 hrs Altitude: ~4,300m
Trek from Qatang to Yemalong, Visit Cave: The final leg of your pilgrimage leads to Yemalong, a site sacred to Yeshe Tsogyal. After reaching the village, hike uphill to the Yemalong Cave, filled with prayer flags and blessed rocks. Overnight: Basic guesthouse or camping near cave Trek: ~8 km | 4 hrs Altitude: ~4,100m
Drive to Samye Monastery & Return to Lhasa: Conclude your spiritual journey with a visit to Samye Monastery, the first Buddhist monastery built in Tibet in the 8th century. Explore its unique mandala layout before driving back to Lhasa. Overnight: Lhasa Drive: ~3.5 hrs Altitude: 3,650m
Day 10 – Departure from Lhasa: Transfer to the airport or train station for your onward journey. Farewell to the Land of Snows.
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.
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