We've thoughtfully published three in-depth articles, each filled with heartfelt 5-star reviews from travelers around the globe. These articles include wonderful Tibet travel reviews from nearly 15 different traveler groups, detailed Tibet tour reviews from 3 groups, and inspiring Tibet tour testimonials from 4 groups.

This expedition combines extensive hiking, immersion in nature, and the opportunity to cultivate inner peace, making it an ideal choice for a spiritual meditation journey. Should you possess positive merit, you may encounter yogis during this experience, as such merit significantly influences the progression of a soul-seeking journey.

Since 2006, Tibet Travelers and its founder, Tenzin Dhondup, have been featured in the Lonely Planet Guidebook. Tibet Travelers is a locally owned, Tibetan-operated travel agency specializing in Tibet tours and Tibet travel adventures to Lhasa City Tours, Spiritual and Nature Tours, Namtso Lake Tour, Everest Base Camp, and Mount Kailash Tours.

Throughout your Tibet travel journey, our knowledgeable local Tibet Travel guides, fluent in English, will accompany you and provide valuable insights into sightseeing in Lhasa. Google Maps and TripAdvisor have awarded us 5-star ratings. Join us for an unforgettable Tibet Travel adventure today!

Our Tibet tour adventure begins with a warm welcome from a friendly and knowledgeable local Tibetan tour guide! Whether you arrive at the Lhasa City airport or the train station, your guide will greet you and ensure a smooth transfer to your cozy hotel conveniently nestled in the heart of Lhasa at an elevation of 3,600 meters, it takes time to acclimate and settle in comfortably.

Once you're rested and ready, the enchanting Old Town of Lhasa eagerly awaits your exploration! This area is a delightful treasure trove of cultural experiences, inviting you to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Barkhor Square. Here, you’ll discover bustling markets brimming with local crafts and unique souvenirs, offering an extraordinary glimpse into everyday life. It’s the perfect setting for Tibet's tour heritage and warm hospitality. Enjoy every moment of your incredible Tibet Travel journey!

In Lhasa City, travelers can choose from three hotel options: the Gold Star Shambhala Palace, known for its Tibetan home ambiance; the 3-star Kyichu Hotel, featuring a garden restaurant; and the 4-star Shambhala Hotel, which offers an oxygen room. All accommodations include breakfast.

The second day of our Tibet tour begins with a warm welcome from the Tibetan tour guide at our hotel. We shall proceed on foot to Barkhor Street, where we will visit the Jokhang Temple. Here, one can observe the profound devotion of thousands of pilgrims who traverse considerable distances—occasionally exceeding one thousand kilometers on foot—to pay their respects at this hallowed site. The temple, with its illustrious history dating back 1,400 years to the 7th century, houses the revered statue of Buddha Shakyamuni at age 12, thereby enhancing its spiritual and historical significance.

Upon immersing oneself in the spiritual ambiance of Jokhang and enjoying a midday repast, one will proceed to the magnificent monastery complex of Sera. Esteemed for its architectural grandeur, Sera has existed for six centuries and is particularly noted for the vibrant, intellectually stimulating philosophical debates conducted by the resident monks. Observing these dialogues offers a dynamic insight into Buddhist teachings and practices, highlighting the monks’ profound understanding and lively intellect. Following our exploration of Sera, we shall return to the hotel for repose. Guests are encouraged to explore the streets and markets of Lhasa at their convenience. 

In Lhasa City, travelers can choose from three hotel options: the Gold Star Shambhala Palace, known for its Tibetan home ambiance; the 3-star Kyichu Hotel, featuring a garden restaurant; and the 4-star Shambhala Hotel, which offers an oxygen room. All accommodations include breakfast.

On Day 3 of our Tibet tour adventure, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our friendly Tibetan tour guide at the hotel! After that, we’ll set off to explore the magnificent Potala Palace. This stunning tower boasts remarkable architecture with over a thousand rooms and is proudly recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll deeply appreciate culture as you climb the palace steps and discover its essential chambers.

Following a pleasant morning visit to the Potala Palace and subsequent lunch, we shall visit the Drepung Monastery in the afternoon. Drepung is recognized as one of the largest colleges in Tibetan Buddhism; during our visit, we will see the grand statue of the Future Buddha, the monastery's main shrine. After exploring Drepung, we will return to the hotel for respite. You are welcome to explore the streets and markets of Lhasa at your convenience. 

In Lhasa City, travelers can choose from three hotel options: the Gold Star Shambhala Palace, known for its Tibetan home ambiance; the 3-star Kyichu Hotel, featuring a garden restaurant; and the 4-star Shambhala Hotel, which offers an oxygen room. All accommodations include breakfast.

Today, we began our journey to Ganden Monastery, the most significant monastery within the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. The main highlight will be a 1-2-hour hike from the back of the mountain, allowing us to take in the entire Ganden Valley. Unlike most Tibet tours that are purely vehicle-based, Tibet Travelers specializes in organizing hiking tours. This hiking path is also known as the pilgrim kora route among local Tibetans, and it offers a rare experience, as very few travelers are seen along the way. Additionally, we will visit the tomb of Je Tsongkapa, the Throne of Ganden, the Great Hall of Ganden Monastery, and Ganden Tsogchen, where monks conduct prayers. 

In the afternoon, we will explore the 7th-century meditation caves associated with the revered master in DrakYerpa. Notable masters who have meditated at DrakYerpa include Jowoje Atisha Dipamkara, Padmasambhava, and King Srongtsen Gampo. We will also meditate within the great master's caves. Additionally, we will embark on a 1-2-hour hike to the meditation cave, enjoying stunning views of the Yerpa Valley. Later, we will travel to Lhasa, passing through the high Nachen La Pass near the city. 

In Lhasa City, travelers can choose from three hotel options: the Gold Star Shambhala Palace, known for its Tibetan home ambiance; the 3-star Kyichu Hotel, featuring a garden restaurant; and the 4-star Shambhala Hotel, which offers an oxygen room. All accommodations include breakfast.

Today, we're setting off on an enthralling adventure to delve deep into the fascinating origins of 8th-century Buddhism in Tibet. Our Tibet tour will begin at the renowned Nyingma school monasteries in Lhoka, Tsetang, and Shannan, including the historically significant first monastery in Tibet, Samye Monastery. This journey is approximately 250 km and is expected to take around 3 to 4 hours as we ascend to a breathtaking elevation of 4,300 meters.

During our adventure, we will be granted the unique opportunity to hike to the enchanting 8th-century meditation caves at Chimpuk. These sacred caves hold rich historical significance, as they were once the practice grounds for the 25 revered disciples of Guru Rinpoche, including the inspiring and enlightened Kandro Yeshe Tsogyal.

A vehicle will take us up the mountain. From there, you can hike, connect personally with the terrain, and reach the meditation caves. Here, we may receive blissful blessings, especially with open hearts and minds ready for the tranquility around us. We will return to Tseteng and visit the first palace, Yumbulakang Palace.

Stay at the 4-star Tseteng Hotel (B: Breakfast)

Today, we will leave early from Tseteng to visit Rutok Monastery, a cozy place on a hill by Yamdrok Lake that resembles a small island. The beauty of today's Tibet tour lies in the authenticity of the Rutok monastery. We will drive near Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s four holy lakes, celebrated for its beauty amid the majestic Himalayas.

After a few hours of driving from Yamdrok Lake, we arrive near the stunning Karo La Glacier! Here, we’ll embark on a delightful hike that takes us to an altitude of nearly 5,000 meters, leading to a charming small lake and glacier.

This adventure will be a true highlight of the day—let’s enjoy the picture below! You’ll start your ascent to the breathtaking Karo La Glacier, where you can enjoy a fantastic close-up view of Mt. Nojin Kangtsang and its spectacular glaciers.

Then, we’ll visit Ralung Monastery, once the most renowned Buddhist yogi college a few centuries ago, and a cherished home to many great Tibetan Yogis from the Drukpa Kagyu sect, such as Jetsun Ling Repa, Jetsun Tsangpa Gyare, Jetsun Tsang Nyon, Jetsun U Nyon, and Jetsun Drukpa Kunley.

This special place is often quiet and peaceful, making it a fantastic spot to soak in the beauty of the landscape away from the hustle and bustle of tourists. After our time at Ralung, we’ll take a leisurely drive through a picturesque valley, admiring charming villages as we make our way to our next stop, the delightful town of Gyantse.

Overnight at the 4-star Nyangchu Manor Hotel in Gyantse town. (B)=breakfast

In the morning, we will embark on an exciting Tibet tour journey to visit the Gyantse Palkor Chode Monastery, a significant spiritual site known for its rich history and stunning architecture. We will also explore the iconic Kumbum Stupa, renowned for its intricate design and cultural importance.

In addition, we will make our way to the majestic Dzong perched on a hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Following these enriching visits, we will travel to Shigatse, a journey of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. After we arrive, we will enjoy a delicious lunch in Shigatse, replenishing our energy for the next leg of our adventure. 

Post-lunch, we will set off towards Sakya town, where we will explore the fascinating Sakya Monastery, the main monastery of the Sakyapa school of Tibetan Buddhism. This monastery is particularly striking for its unique color scheme, featuring dark blue, white, and red that distinguish it from other monasteries in Tibet.

After spending ample time soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, we will return to Shigatse, settling in for the night and reflecting on the day’s journey and experiences. We will explore Tashilhunpo Monastery and have the option of taking a short hike to appreciate the city's stunning beauty.

Overnight at the 4-star Gesar Hotel Deluxe Room in Shigatse City. (B)=breakfast

Today is a special highlight of our Tibet tour adventure. We embark on a picturesque drive through the stunning Shug La Pass, reaching a remarkable elevation of 5,411 meters—the pinnacle of our Tibet adventure!

As we travel, we’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of Mount Jomo Gangkar, standing tall at 7,048 meters in this beautiful region celebrated for its magnificent landscapes. You can genuinely feel the vibrant presence of the nomadic communities and devoted farmers who have lived in harmony with nature for generations.

Shug La Pass offers a unique and genuine experience of breathtaking high-altitude landscapes. It showcases beautiful white snow-capped mountains, lush rivers, and the peaceful lives of farmers and nomads amidst expansive grasslands. This makes it an extraordinary part of our day!

Following our adventure here, we’ll travel to Damxung town for a cozy overnight stay, just 60km from the stunning Namtso Lake. Today, we’ll cover about 360 kilometers, which will take roughly seven hours. We plan to leave Shigatse after the Tashilhunpo monastery visits between 11 a.m. and 12 p.m., and we expect to arrive at our hotel in Damxung around 6 to 7 p.m.

Overnight at the Holy Goat Manor Hotel in Damxung town. (B)=breakfast

Today marks an extended day as we endeavor to appreciate the concealed splendors of Namtso Lake, and we must return to Lhasa for improved accommodation at a lower altitude to facilitate rest. It is recommended to depart early from the hotel around 6-7 am with coffee and to bring our lunch box, since dining options near Namtso Lake at Elephant Holy Gate are limited. It’s going to be quite the adventure, and we'll also go over some bumpy roads!

The typical tourist visits the eastern side of Namtso Lake at Tashidor, whereas we journey to the northern side. Although this route is lengthy, it is worthwhile as fewer travelers visit this area, allowing us to enjoy a more exclusive and scenic view of Namtso Lake. After spending a memorable time at the lake and capturing photographs, we proceed to Damxung to enjoy lunch or dinner. Subsequently, we return to Lhasa for the night.

We will embark on a 60km scenic drive from Damxung town through expansive, breathtaking grasslands toward Namtso Lake, often called the “Heavenly Lake” for its stunning beauty and tranquil atmosphere.

Before we arrive at the lake, our journey will take us through the majestic Largen La Pass, which stands at an impressive altitude of 5,200 meters. This pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of Namtso Lake from a distance, allowing us to appreciate its vastness and ethereal charm before we get closer. Along the way, we will also pass wild animals called Na, or blue sheep.

From the hill near the Elephant Holy Gate, we can see a different view of Namtso Lake. The name comes from a stone that resembles an elephant, and there's a small square gate or hole called the gateway to heaven, which is considered sacred. This spot is perfect for connecting with nature and feeling part of everything around us, a reminder that we all originated from the stars. Let's embrace the natural world, become part of its beauty, and cherish the moment!

This day will be lengthy. We will travel 200 km from Damxung to the northern edge of Namtso Lake, then continue to Lhasa, for a total of 562km at an altitude of approximately 4,700 meters above sea level.

In Lhasa City, travelers can choose from three hotel options: the Gold Star Shambhala Palace, known for its Tibetan home ambiance; the 3-star Kyichu Hotel, featuring a garden restaurant; and the 4-star Shambhala Hotel, which offers an oxygen room. All accommodations include breakfast.

As your Tibet Tour journey ends, it’s time to bid farewell. We highly recommend booking late-afternoon flights or train tickets from Lhasa to other destinations in China or to Kathmandu, Nepal. This allows you to enjoy a leisurely morning in Lhasa, where you can visit the bustling local market or take a scenic walk along historic Baker Street. Dedicating time to experience the city’s vibrant culture will significantly enhance your travel adventure. 

As you prepare for your return trip, plan to arrive at the airport or train station at least two hours before departure. This ensures you have a comfortable buffer for check-in and any unforeseen delays. Thank you for traveling with us. We sincerely hope your journey in Tibet has been fantastic, and we wish you a safe and pleasant trip home!