Chengdu—Yaan—Luding County—Hailuogou Glacier Park
Transportation: tour bus Altitude:3000m
Departing around 8:30 AM, the journey takes us through the 147-kilometer Chengdu-Ya'an Expressway, reaching the city of Ya'an. Ya'an, once the capital of Western Kang District, is renowned as the "Rain City" and has historically been a crucial gateway in the Sichuan-Tibet region, serving as an essential route for the ancient Southern Silk Road and the Tea Horse Ancient Trail. The drive takes approximately 4 hours. After lunch in Shimian, we continue along the Dadu River, making stops to appreciate the scenery. Eventually, we arrive at Moxi Town (entrance to the Hailuogou Glacier Park). Opting to stay outside the scenic area, we can leisurely stroll through Moxi Old Street, visit the Catholic Church, Moxi Meeting Site, and consider enjoying a hot spring in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast: Not Included Lunch: Not included Dinner: Not included
Accommodation: Haiuogou Chang Zheng Hotel
Haiuogou—Kangting—Xinduqiao town
Transportation: tour bus Altitude:2700-3350m
【Kindly Reminder】Please be mindful of the departure time, and after visiting the glacier, the driver will wait in Moxi Town (follow specific instructions from the driver). Moxi Town, surrounding a picturesque landscape, is a charming little town. If there is sunlight on the arrival day, you can capture the sunset; if the lighting is unfavorable, consider taking sunrise photos early the next day.
After having breakfast in the morning, take the scenic area's sightseeing vehicle to Hailuogou, where you can admire the lowest-altitude marine-type glacier in Asia—the sacred Mount Gongga. After lunch in Moxi, head to the filming location of the movie "The Wall" at the Red Stone Beach. The red stones cascade down from the mountain top, resembling a spectacular red waterfall. At an altitude of 3820 meters, Yajia Geng offers breathtaking views on clear days, with blue skies, white clouds, and snow-capped mountains creating a beautiful canvas.
Kangting serves as the capital of the Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, featuring traditional Tibetan dwellings. The Zheduo Mountain lives up to its name with numerous winding roads; its summit stands at 4298 meters. Here, it's advisable to walk slowly and avoid excessive excitement. The distance from Zheduo Mountain to Xinduqiao is 35 kilometers. Along the way, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of yak herds, flowing streams beneath small bridges, and local dwellings—a paradise for photographers.
Meals: Breakfast: Included Lunch: Not included Dinner: Not included
Accommodation: Tiequan Shengdi Hotel/Xingchen Theme Hotel
Xinduqiao town—Yajiang County—Litang county—Yading Nature Reserve/Daocheng
Transportation: tour bus Altitude:3300m
【Kindly Reminder】On this journey, the road conditions are relatively poor and prone to traffic jams, so be mentally prepared. Additionally, the altitude is mostly above 3000 meters, and halfway through, there is a pass at an altitude of over 4000 meters, where many people may experience noticeable altitude sickness. It is essential to take preventive measures in advance.
Yajiang is renowned as the "First Crossing of the Ancient Tea Horse Road. Starting from here, we gradually break free from the constraints of urban concrete and immerse ourselves in the vastness of nature.
If you depart early, you may catch the sunrise when crossing the Mountain Gaerli. Litang, known as the "World's Highest City," sits at an altitude of 4014.187 meters and is the only county town where Tibetan culture is relatively well-preserved. The Changqingchun Ke’er Monastery, founded by the 3rd Dalai Lama Sonam Gyatso, is located here.
In Daocheng, the vibrant flowers, lush green grass, and babbling streams create a picturesque grassland. Everything is so beautiful, with an unadorned charm that invites you to savor the moment slowly!
Meals: Breakfast: Included Lunch: Not included Dinner: Not included
Accommodation: Ramada Encore Hotel
Daocheng —Yading Nature Reserve— Daocheng/Yading - Daocheng
Transportation: tour bus Altitude:3900m
【Kindly Reminder】In high-altitude areas, please engage in moderate physical and prioritize personal safety.
After breakfast, board a sightseeing vehicle to enter the enchanting Yading Nature Reserve. The core of this area is formed by three snow-capped mountains, creating a distinctive '品' character and serving as a sacred pilgrimage site for all beings. Traverse the Niu Lang Shan (altitude 4760 meters), gaze at the Xianuorishan Mountain from the viewing platform, pass through Yading Village, and reach Chonggu Monastery after descending from Zhaguanbeng. From there, hike to Chonggu Monastery at an altitude of 3900 meters. This natural meadow, composed of grasslands, forests, streams, and mani piles, allows you to truly feel the grandeur, beauty, magic, and charm of nature. Visitors can choose to hike or take a scenic area battery car (one-way 50 yuan, round-trip 80 yuan) to Luorong Cattle Ranch.
As you ascend, you can admire the distant views of Shenoduoji Mountain (meaning Vajrapani, altitude 5958 meters) and Yangmaiyong Mountain (meaning Manjushri, altitude 5958 meters). In the afternoon, head to the sacred lake, Pearl Sea, beneath the Xianuorishan Mountain. Pearl Sea, at an altitude of 3950 meters, is a lake formed by the melting snow of Xianuorishan. Within the dense forest, Pearl Sea resembles a green gemstone embedded in a lotus throne, radiating an infinite and unadorned beauty in the shimmering waves. Finally, return to Daocheng by car.
Meals: Breakfast: Included Lunch: Not included Dinner: Not included
Accommodation: Ramada Encore Hotel
Daocheng—Litang County—Batang—Markan County
Transportation: tour bus Altitude:4010m
【Kindly Reminder】Leaving Batang, you enter a gorge, cross the Jinsha River, and Zhu Balong marks the boundary between Sichuan and Tibet on the southern route of the Sichuan-Tibet highway, officially entering the Tibet Autonomous Region. When passing through the checkpoint, please cooperate with the inspection, and photography is prohibited.
Hongcaodi, located 28 kilometers north of Daocheng County, is initially an inconspicuous small pond. However, it has become one of the iconic landscapes of Daocheng because it is covered with red grass every autumn.
The legendary Hongcaodi in Daocheng is actually only a small area, but that doesn't diminish photographers' passionate pursuit of it. After Daocheng, return to the central town on the 318 line—Litang. Take a break in Litang, and in the afternoon, set off for Markom to welcome the next challenge.
Meals: Breakfast: Included Lunch: Not included Dinner: Not included
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Batang, an IHG hotel
Markom—Zuogong County—Bonda—Basu
Transportation: tour bus Altitude:3800m
【Kindly Reminder】Markom is the first county town to enter Tibet on this journey, with an altitude of 3780 meters. It is characterized by numerous gorges and complex terrain, where the southern route of the Sichuan-Tibet highway and the Yunnan-Tibet highway converge.
Departing from Mangkang, the journey begins by crossing the winding Lancang River and ascending one of the highest mountain passes on the Sichuan-Tibet highway—the Dongda Mountain Pass, reaching an altitude exceeding 5008 meters. From this high-altitude vantage point, with snow-capped peaks and sky-reaching clouds, the distant view unfolds. The Sichuan-Tibet highway and the Lancang River appear like two shimmering ribbons, intermittently visible amid the vast mountains and valleys.
Meals: Breakfast: Included Lunch: Not included Dinner: Not included
Accommodation: Nujiangyun Hotel
Basu—Ranwu Lake—Midui Glacier—Bome
Transportation: tour bus Altitude:3850m
【Main Highlights】The journey features pristine snow-capped mountains, original forests, picturesque countryside scenery, Ranwu Lake, the "Little Switzerland of Tibet" in Bome Zhamu Town, the world-class glacier wonder - Midui Glacier, and the most beautiful stretch of the Sichuan-Tibet Highway. Along the way, the landscape unfolds with stunning views of forests, snow-covered peaks, lakes, farmlands, villages, creating a series of captivating scenes that are truly enchanting.
【Kindly Reminder】The itinerary includes visits to two glaciers, Lagen Glacier and Midui Glacier (known as the most beautiful glacier in China), with an admission fee of 50 yuan for the Midui Glacier.
Meals: Breakfast: Included Lunch: Not included Dinner: Not included
Accommodation: Gela Dongdan Hotel or quivalent
Bome—Lulang town—Bayi town/Nyingchi
Transportation: tour bus Altitude:3290m
【Kindly Reminder】Setting out from Zhamu town in Bome County, the adventure kicks off, winding through untouched forests towards the hair-raising Tongmai pass, the ultimate challenge on the Sichuan-Tibet Highway. Pailongmenba Ethnic Township is your ticket to the breathtaking Yarlung Tsangpo Canyon. Following the trail along the Parlung Tsangpo River southward, you hit a curve in the canyon – the most thrilling and unique part of the journey. Beyond Pailong, the road conditions gradually improve, taking you through the sea-like dense forest of Lulang, ascending the snow-covered Sejila Mountain enveloped in mist and clouds.
Standing tall at 4702 meters, Segrila Pass is famed for its blooming azaleas in spring and summer, doubling as a prime spot to catch a glimpse of the grandeur of Mount Namcha Barwa. Descending from Segrila, the path leads you downhill to the Nyang River's lower valley, where you'll find the county seat of Nyingchi. Just 19 kilometers away from Nyingchi's county seat lies Bayi Town, the capital of the Nyingchi region, perched at an elevation of 2400 meters. The journey unfolds on asphalt roads bordered by rows of cypress trees, treating you to scenic wonders, including the acclaimed "World King of Cypress Trees" in Bajie Township, just 4 kilometers from Bayi Town.
Meals: Breakfast: Included Lunch: Not included Dinner: Not included
Accommodation: Hongtian Hotel or equivalent
Nyingchi—Basomtso Lake—Mila Pass—Lhasa
Transportation: tour bus Altitude:3538m
【Kindly Reminder】Embark on a full-day journey covering over 400 kilometers, immersing yourself in the picturesque landscapes along the Nyang River. This stretch of the 318 National Highway boasts excellent road conditions, showcasing the best scenery with a delightful and temperate climate. The route leads you to the enchanting Basomtso Lake scenic area, where the lake is embraced by mountains on all sides. Sitting at an average altitude of 4000 meters, the lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks above and lush vegetation below. The crystal-clear waters of Basomtso Lake reveal a vibrant underwater world, with the surrounding snow-covered mountains reflecting in its serene surface, creating a mesmerizing scene teeming with aquatic life.
Continuing your journey, you'll drive to Lhasa, known in Tibetan as the "Throne of the Sun," concluding your day amidst the cultural and historical richness of this remarkable city.
Meals: Breakfast: Included Lunch: Not included Dinner: Not included
Accommodation:The Tibet Gang-gyan Lhasa Hotel
Lhasa city center (Potala Palace+Jokhang Temple+Bharkor Street)
Transportation: on foot Altitude:3538m
In the morning, we'll visit the Potala Palace, the world's highest ancient palace-style complex, which served as the residence of Dalai Lamas and the epicenter of political and religious authority in Tibet. Before reaching the Potala Palace, you'll need to ascend over 1080 steps. While the climb might be a bit taxing, the breathtaking views overlooking the entire city of Lhasa will make you forget any fatigue!
In the afternoon, we'll explore the sacred Jokhang Temple, revered by Tibetan Buddhists. This architectural masterpiece blends Tibetan, Tang, Nepalese, and Indian styles, standing as a timeless symbol of Tibetan religious architecture.
After our visit to the Jokhang Temple, you can leisurely stroll around it in a clockwise direction, browse the handicraft market on Barkhor Street, or simply wander the streets, basking in the warmth of the Sunlight City. Alternatively, you can find a charming tea house and immerse yourself in the leisurely lifestyle of Tibetan friends.
【Kindly Reminder】When entering Tibetan monasteries, it's essential to observe local customs and show respect. Remember to remove your hat and sunglasses, refrain from smoking, and avoid touching Buddha statues, turning over scripture books, or playing with prayer wheels and drums. Similarly, be cautious with other Buddhist artifacts such as prayer beads and protective talismans—avoid handling them casually. Additionally, some monasteries may have restrictions on photography; it's crucial to adhere to these guidelines and refrain from taking pictures where it's prohibited.
Meals: Breakfast: Included Lunch: Not included Dinner: Not included
Accommodation: The Tibet Gang-gyan Lhasa Hotel
Lhasa—Yamdrok Lake—Lhasa
Transportation: tour bus Altitude:3538m
After breakfast, embark on a westward journey along the 318 National Highway. Ascend the serpentine mountain road, crossing the 4900-meter-high Gangbala Snow Mountain. Arrive at Yangzhuoyong Lake, meaning "Swan Lake" in Tibetan, which stands shoulder to shoulder with Namtso in the north and Mapam Yumco in Ali, collectively known as the Three Sacred Lakes of Tibet. This lake is the largest freshwater lake in Tibet, adorned with several small islands. The lake's azure, crystalline waters and picturesque surroundings make it a breathtaking sight.
Yamdrok Lake resembles an irregular blue gem nestled among the surrounding peaks, akin to a delicate azure silk ribbon draped around the foothills, shimmering with a subtle play of blue hues. Following this, return to Lhasa by car, concluding your day filled with awe-inspiring natural beauty.
Meals: Breakfast: Included Lunch: Not included Dinner: Not included
Accommodation: The Tibet Gang-gyan Lhasa Hotel
Lhasa—Train station or airport—End of journey
Transportation: Train station 30km/airport 60km
After breakfast, check out of the hotel. The driver will pick up guests from the hotel and transfer them to Lhasa Airport or the train station, concluding a delightful journey!
Meals: Breakfast: Included Lunch: Not included Dinner: Not included
Accommodation: Self-arranged