13 Days Chongqing Nyingchi Lhasa to Kathmandu Tour

Board the international flight to Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport. After you land in Chongqing, our local travel expert will be expecting you at the exit gate of the Chongqing Airport and whisk you off to the hotel in downtown Chongqing.

The rest of the day is at leisure. Here are some of the recommended places for sightseeing and dining:
a. Visit Jiefangbei Square, the “Times Square” in Chongqing.

b. Taste a well-renowned hot pot in Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street.

c. Enjoy the stunning night view of the Yangzi and Jialing rivers from E’ling Park.

Stay overnight in Chongqing.

• Jiefangbei Square
• hot pot

After breakfast, we will visit the Three Gorge Museum, where tourists can learn the historical facts of Chongqing before Three Gorge Dam is built. You can also enjoy the statues, ceramics, Buddhist art and bronze relics rescued from the rising waters of the dammed Yangtze River. Besides, you can see many historical photographs which give you an interesting insight into the small minorities inhabited in and around Chongqing in the past, etc.

After Lunch, the whole tour group is about to tour one of the must-see attractions in Chongqing, i.e. Ciqi Kou. The ancient town gives you a glimpse of the traditional cobbled streets and the distinct courtyard and lifestyle in hilly Chongqing. Some of the well-preserved shrines and temples are worth a visit. Though being a bit touristy, Ciqi Kou is packed with intriguing souvenir shops and tasty food stalls and home-run hostels. Do walk to the end and enjoy the river bank and ferry boats there.

In the evening, we will stop by Hongya Cave. With gorgeous neon lights sparkling around the Hongya Cave and Qiansimen Jialing River Bridge, you can taste hot pot and local snacks while enjoy the stunning night view of Jialing River Bridge and the commercial boats below, which is why Chongqing is named as “Small Hongkong”. You may also join the crowds to watch the live performance of street artists.

Stay overnight in Chongqing

• Ciqi Kou
• Hongya Cave

Have an early rise for breakfast and get transferred to Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport for the morning flight to Nyingchi. The non-stop flight takes around 2h30min.

When you arrive in Nyingchi, our friendly local Tibetan guide will be expecting you at Nyingchi Mainling Airport with a Hada (the traditional Tibetan ceremonial scarf) and warm blessings.

Then, the guide and the driver will take you to your hotel in Bayi Town of Nyingchi. After settling into your hotel, take some time to rest and adjust to the altitude.

Stay overnight in Nyingchi.

• Tibetan tour guide greets you at Nyingchi Mainling Airport.
• Transfer to Bayi Town of Nyingchi via the enchanting Niyang River.

After breakfast, our journey begins at Gala Peach Blossom Village, where ancient peach trees bloom amidst peaceful villages. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and winding streams, this idyllic spot on the banks of the Yarlung Tsangpo River offers a feast to your eyes.

Next, we’ll drive towards Sejila Mountain. From its Serkhym-la pass (4,728m), you may marvel at the imposing Mt. Namcha Barwa (7,782m), credited as the most beautiful snow-capped peak in China (best viewed from late October to April).

Our adventure continues to the Lulang Forest, nestling in a vast lush valley. Here, we’ll visit a traditional Gongbu Tibetan family. Experience the thrill of archery, an ancient Tibetan sport, guided by friendly local Tibetans. Then, step into their warm home to enjoy homemade Tibetan sweet tea, make pancakes with an elder Tibetan mother, and chat with them through the help of our local experts by the fire.

At the dinner table, you will savor authentic Gongbu Tibetan dishes, including the famous Nyingchi delicacy - free-range Tibetan pigs. You’ll also have the chance to dress in traditional Gongbu Tibetan costumes for memorable photos. As the day winds down, take a peaceful stroll to watch the golden sunset over the snow-capped mountains.

Stay overnight in a cozy homestay in the picturesque Tashigang Village.

• Experience the thrill of archery with our expert local Tibetan guides.
• Enjoy the authentic Tibetan food in the homestay with locals

After a hearty breakfast in Lulang, with the soft morning light and mist hanging over the hills, we say goodbye to the tranquil Lulang Forest and step into another hidden peach blossom paradise - Gangyun Forest. Wander through the lush, fresh air of the ancient forest, where wild peach trees bloom in vibrant pink, creating a picturesque escape surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dense forests.

After a delightful visit in Gangyun Forest, we drive to Bomi Peach Blossom Valley. If Gala Peach Blossom Village is the appetizer, Bomi is the grand feast. This valley is home to the world’s largest wild peach orchard, stretching for miles with blooming peach trees that blanket entire valleys to the foot of the snow-capped mountains. We’ll roam over this pink paradise, discovering traditional Tibetan homes hidden among the blossoms and enjoying the gentle breeze with the scent of peach blossoms.

Leaving Bomi, we head towards the enchanting Ranwu Lake. The narrow, shimmering lake, surrounded by snowy peaks and verdant forests, offers a breathtaking view at every turn. We’ve selected the best lakeside accommodations for you, where you can enjoy epic sunset or sunrise over the picturesque Ranwu Lake and surrounding majestic peaks from your room or the hotel’s corridors.

Stay overnight at the self-drive camping site of Ranwu Lake or Nanhu Hotel.

• Nyingchi Peach Blossom in Spring
• Ranwu Lake

After breakfast, we’ll discover the extraordinary blue ice wonder of Laigu Glacier together. The area is home to six glaciers, and depending on the season, different sections of the Blue Ice Caves open up. The blue ice caves are most available in the frozen lake area in winter, where the vast, glittering blue ice shimmers under the winter sun.

The towering blue ice walls will make you feel like you're standing amidst Antarctica's icy landscape. Step into each cave, and witness the mesmerizing light refraction creating hues of violet, turquoise, and sea green - like being in an ancient underwater world.

Beyond the ice lake area, the farther blue ice caves require off-road vehicles, driven by local villagers to reach. We’ll plan your blue Ice journey based on the open sections, with visits ranging from 2 to 6 hours depending on the location. You’ll have ample time to explore the glacier and ice caves to your heart’s content in the dazzling blue glaciers and ice lakes.

Along the way, you can enjoy close-up views of pastoral meadows, blue alpine lakes, and towering snow-capped mountains that seem within easy reach. This may be the most impressive display of snow peaks you’ll ever witness, stretching endlessly in all directions, and magnificent in scale.

After visiting Laigu Glacier, we’ll descend along the shores of Ranwu Lake in afternoon sunlight. As the sun softens, the lake’s vibrant green waters reflect the snow-capped peaks, meadows, and pastures, creating a poetic landscape. After leaving the lake, we’ll drive back to the Lulang Forest for the lodging. It may be a late return, but the stunning scenery you’ve experienced will be etched in your memory forever.

Stay overnight in the homestay of TashiGang, Lulang Town.

• The stunning ice cave of Laigu glacier
• Tourists can get up close to appreciate the stunning glacier.

Start your day with breakfast amidst the morning mist of Lulang Forest before venturing to another hidden gem of Eastern Tibet - Basum Tso Lake. This sacred lake, cradled by snow-capped peaks and lush forests, offers a tranquil escape. Stroll through the bustling island off the shore of Basum Tso Lake, then board a motorboat to cross its emerald-green waters.

On the far, secluded shore, discover the mystical "Fertility Cave," hidden within the forest. From there, embark on an 8km (or 2.5 hours) lakeside trek, immersing yourself in the serenity of untouched nature.

This journey offers more than just natural beauty - it’s a soulful retreat. Walk amidst ancient trees adorned with colorful prayer flags, their reflections blending seamlessly with the lake’s sparkling surface. Let the serenity envelop you as you connect with nature, feeling the life force in every tree and blade of grass.

After this unforgettable trek, we’ll drive back to Lhasa, likely arriving late, but with hearts full from experiencing the very best of Eastern Tibet. It is well worth the long drive.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

• Basumtso lake, cradled by snow-capped peaks and lush forests
• Enjoy an 8km leisurely trek along Basumtso's tranquil shores

In the morning, you’ll explore the largest monastery in Tibet - Drepung Monastery, which was once the home to over 10,000 monks. As you walk through the Coqen Hall, your guide will provide detailed explanations of the worldview of Tibetan Buddhism and introduce notable figures in Tibetan Buddhist history.

Next, you’ll visit the renowned Loseling College (or an equivalent), offering a glimpse into the study and life of Tibetan monks. Explore their dormitories to gain insights into the Tibetan monks' daily routines and living conditions.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to Sera Monastery, another of the  ‘great three’ Gelug monasteries of Tibet, to witness the famous Tibetan Monks Debate (15:00 - 17:00, from Monday to Saturday). Your guide will intricately explain how Tibetan monks engage in these debates to acquire knowledge and advance in their academic degrees.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

• Monks chat happily before the assembly hall of Drepung monastery.
• Dramatic monk debate in Sera Monastery

After breakfast, your first stop is the Potala Palace, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Lhasa Old Town. Discover the lives and stories of the Dalai Lamas through history within the palace, and the extraordinary treasures it holds. The most valuable collections of Potala Palace are the gilded burial stupas of former Dalai Lamas and the meditation cave of the 33rd great king of Tibet.

After touring the Potala Palace, you will visit Longwangtan Park at the foot of the Potala Palace. Here, you can appreciate the majestic Potala Palace from a different perspective and engage in local Tibetan folk activities.

In the afternoon, you will head to the heart of Tibetan religion - the Jokhang Temple. Inside you can see the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni at the age of twelve. Outside, you can see pilgrims making prostrating in front of Jokhang Temple. Around the temple is Barkhor Street, where you can do kora (a religious circle of a building or mountain) with pilgrims and locals, and explore the old market.

Next, follow your guide to one of the liveliest indoor Tibetan tea houses in Lhasa. Sip traditional Tibetan sweet tea alongside local Tibetans as your guide shares insights into Tibetan social dynamics and daily life.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

• Potala Palace is always the No.1 attraction for travelers visiting Tibet.
• A Tibetan pilgrim is worshipping Jokhang Temple

After breakfast, we will drive over the Gampala Pass (4790 m) to catch a glimpse of Yamdrok-tso (4400m). The Yamdrok Lake is surrounded by many snow-capped mountains and in the distance you can have spectacular views of Holy Mount Nyenchen Khangsar (7191m), the highest mountain near Lhasa. Continue to explore the lakeshore from various viewpoints, and at the end of the lake, you could visit a local family in the village and have lunch with the locals.

Next, you will pass and enjoy the Korola Glacier on the roadside. It is the largest glacier in Tibet. As you see the ice tongue of the glacier climb the entire hillside, you will feel the magical power of nature.

Then, continue your journey to Gyantse. On the way, you will stop at Simila Mountain Pass, where you can hang prayer flags to pray for world peace and the health of your family.

After arriving in Gyantse, you can spend some time taking photos of the ancient city of Gyantse. From Gyantse to Shigatse, you will pass by green (in summer) and golden (in autumn) Tibetan barley fields and countless farms.

Finally, we will arrive in Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. After checking in to the hotel, you can take a good rest and prepare for the next day’s trip to Mount Everest.

Stay overnight in Shigatse.

• Yamdrok Lake at Gampala Pass, where you can get a marvelous bird's-eye view of the lake.
• The Karola Glacier is so close that you will appreciate a spectacular view of the white glacier contrasted with blue sky.

After breakfast, you will head directly to Mount Everest.

First, you will pass Gyatsola Pass (5280m). At Gyatsola Pass viewpoint, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest. Hidden behind the mountain range, the Everest resembles a budding lotus flower, a captivating sight along the roadside.

Shortly after we enter Mount Everest National Nature Reserve, you will enjoy the panoramic view of the Himalayas at Gawula Pass (5198m). At this viewpoint, you will marvel at the majestic lineup of the five highest peaks in the Himalayas, including Everest at the forefront.

Then, continue driving along the new zigzag road to Everest Base Camp (5200m). As you get close to the base camp, the majestic Everest gradually unfolds before you, drawing nearer with each winding turn.

Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, the colossal white pyramid peak of Mount Everest stands towering before you. As the day transitions to dusk, witness the golden hues of the sun casting a warm glow on Everest's northern face.

Stay overnight at Everest Base Camp or in the local village near EBC if the EBC tent hotels are closed during the winter season.

Insider Tips:
1. The visibility of Everest is subject to weather conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
2. During the winter season, typically from November to March, the tent hotels at Everest Base Camp close. Therefore, if you’re traveling in winter, your accommodation options are limited to the village near EBC.

• Drive along the zigzag road to Everest Base Camp
• Enjoy your group tour to Everest Base Camp

Today, you will reach Gyirong Border, witnessing the breathtaking landscapes changing from 5200 meters to 2800 meters above sea level.

In the morning, before departing from the base camp, you will visit Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest monastery, where nuns and monks live together at 5154 meters above sea level.

Then, you will cross the Himalayas and take a drive to Gyirong at the Sino-Nepal border. Across the 380-kilometer journey, marvel at the evolving scenery - from snow-capped peaks towering over 5000 meters to the lush forests and canyon vistas at around 2800 meters above sea level.

As you pass by Mt. Shishabangma (8027 meters), one of the world’s highest mountains over 8000 meters, you can enjoy a close view of the three main peaks of Shigabangma, as well as the golden glow of Pelku Tso Lake beneath the peaks.

Afterward, the altitude drops dramatically. You’ll be mesmerized by forests, waterfalls, and bottomless canyons as you enter the edge of the Himalayas.

When you arrive in Gyirong Valley, what you will see is the dense forest and the snowy peaks above the forests. In Gyirong town, you can breathe in the abundant oxygen.

We will say goodbye to Tibet here.

Stay overnight in Gyirong.

• Rongphu monastery
• Immersed in the local way of life here in Gyirong Valley.

After breakfast, you will say goodbye to your Tibetan tour guide and driver. Our Nepali staff at the Nepal border port will warmly welcome you, assist you in applying for a Nepal visa, and be responsible for carrying large luggage (at your own expense). We ensure a safe transfer for you to your hotel in Kathmandu with Tibet Vista’s vehicle. Tour service ends.