15 Days Chengdu Lhasa EBC Overland Tour via 318 National Highway

Welcome to Chengdu!

Upon your arrival in Chengdu, our airport staff will warmly greet you and escort you to your hotel in the downtown area. If you have some free time, you might consider visiting the Panda Base for a close encounter with the adorable pandas, or explore popular attractions such as Chunxi Road, Kuanzhai Alley, and Jinli.

In the evening, your guide will host a welcome dinner at a carefully selected restaurant. During this time, the guide will introduce fellow travelers, share travel tips, and ensure that you have a pleasant and smooth journey.

Today, you're all set for an exciting journey along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway! Starting from Chengdu, the road unfolds, taking you to the 2560-meter-high Kangding. Along the way, you'll witness the picturesque shift from plains to plateau landscapes.

After a hearty breakfast, you'll kick off a 300-kilometer road adventure, a 3-hour drive that winds through the Chengdu plain and eventually arrives at Kangding, nestled on the edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Surrounded by mountains and valleys, Kangding has been a hub of economic activity, historically serving as a crucial center for trade between the Tibetan and Han Chinese cultures, and a significant gateway for trade between Tibet and Han Chinese regions.

Upon reaching Kangding, your guide will take you to the initial stop of this journey - Mugecuo (Kangding Love Song Scenic Area). The scenic area features a blend of highland lakes, pristine forests, hot springs, snow-capped peaks, unique mountains, and an 8-kilometer-long Thousand Falls Canyon. The well-designed attractions collectively paint a picturesque and vibrant landscape.

After exploring Mugecuo, your guide will accompany you back to Kangding county.

Stay overnight in Kangding.

Today, you'll traverse a mountainous pass, Zheduo Mountain, on your journey into Tibet, passing through the picturesque photography haven of Xinduqiao.

In the morning, after breakfast, departing from Kangding county, you'll reach the first gateway to Kham, Zheduo Mountain (4962 meters). Here, the distinctive landscape of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau unfolds before your eyes – Tibetan villages, grasslands, yaks, blue skies, white clouds, meandering streams, and poplar trees create a breathtaking scene.

Crossing Zheduo Mountain, you'll continue westward to the tranquil village of Xinduqiao at an altitude of 3460 meters. The serene village, babbling streams, vibrant traditional Tibetan houses, and fragrant alpine meadows will transport you into an idyllic pastoral landscape, a dreamlike depiction of a hometown. Xinduqiao is particularly beloved by photographers, serving as a paradise for capturing the serene countryside scenery. In autumn, the highland meadows and trees burst with vibrant colors, turning Xinduqiao into a canvas of vivid hues.

In the evening, you will arrive in Yajiang County.

Stay overnight in Yajiang.

Today, you'll set off for the renowned "Last Shangri-La on Earth" – Daocheng Yading.

After breakfast, your guide will lead you on a journey from Yajiang towards Daocheng Yading Town. Along the way, you'll traverse the 4718-meter-high Kazi La Mountain, arriving at the world's highest city, Litang (4014 meters), also the birthplace of the 7th Dalai Lama, Kelzang Gyatso.

In Litang county, you'll notice street lamps shaped like cranes and images of cranes everywhere. Arriving in Litang feels like cranes flying to the hometown of the 7th Dalai Lama, a place blessed by the Buddha.

After Litang, you'll reach Haizi Mountain at an elevation of 4500 meters. This area hosts the largest ancient glacial relic on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, consisting of 1145 lakes of various sizes. The lakes, scattered like diamonds accidentally dropped by the gods onto the plateau, showcase the incredible craftsmanship of nature.

Subsequently, journey through the vibrant red earth valleys and serene Tibetan villages, finally reaching your destination for the day – Shangri-La in Dacheng County.

Stay overnight in Dacheng County.

Today, immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Daocheng Yading, a paradise on Earth.

After breakfast, accompanied by your guide, you'll board the scenic area's sightseeing bus to venture deep into the heart of Daocheng Yading – Chonggu Monastery. Here, you'll gaze up at the 6032-meter-high Xiannairi Snow Mountain. The meadows, forests, babbling streams, colorful prayer flags, and mani stones beneath the snow mountain create a dreamlike panorama.

Next, board the scenic area's bus again, arriving at Luorong Cattle Farm (or you can choose a three-hour hike to Luorong Cattle Farm if you prefer). Here, you'll encounter two more sacred mountains of Yading – Xianuoduoji and Yangmaiyong.

In addition to admiring the sacred mountains, your guide will lead you to two stunning lakes hidden in the forest in Yading: Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake.

Milk Lake is a high-altitude alpine lake. Its water, resembling milky white, gives the lake its name. The lush grasslands surrounding the lake and distant snow-capped mountains create a serene and mysterious scene.

In contrast, Five-Color Lake boasts vibrant colors, displaying shades of deep blue, light blue, green, red, and white. Under the sunlight, the surface of Five-Color Lake resembles a giant gem, radiating captivating brilliance.

Stay overnight in Shangri-La Town.

After enjoying the splendid scenery of Daocheng Yading, today, you'll immerse yourself in the embrace of the Maoke Grassland in Litang.

In the morning, after breakfast, you'll return to Litang from Daocheng Yading by car. During the journey back, you'll once again appreciate the breathtaking Huzishan, where it seems as if diamonds are scattered by the hands of the gods. Later, you'll arrive at today's destination, the plateau city of Batang, situated at an elevation of 2560 meters.

Upon reaching Batang, your next stop will be the expansive Maoya Grassland. Surrounded by mountains, this vast grassland resembles a blue sea, dotted with tents emitting light smoke. Cattle and sheep leisurely stroll across the lush pasture. If you're fortunate, you might even encounter wild animals like gazelles, yellow ducks, and marmots in this vast natural paradise. Here, you'll experience the vastness of the plateau and the vitality of life, immersing yourself in the beauty of nature.

Stay overnight in Batang.

Today's journey will take you deep into the rugged mountain valleys along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway, offering breathtaking views of the turbulent Jinsha River, Lancang River, and Nu River cascading down in spectacular fashion.

As the new day unfolds, after breakfast, accompanied by your guide and driver, you'll travel towards Zuogong. Along the way, you'll traverse the most spectacular gorge region of the Three Parallel Rivers in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The majestic canyons are profound and vast, where the Jinsha River, Lancang River, and Nu River flow side by side within a 300-kilometer stretch, breaking free from the constraints of the deep mountain valleys like fierce beasts. These three great rivers meander through the canyons, eventually converging to become the mother river nourishing Chinese civilization—the Yangtze River.

After navigating the treacherous gorge, you'll head west, crossing the 4,358-meter La Wu Mountain and the towering 5,086-meter Dongda Mountain. Standing at the mountain pass, you'll gaze into the distance, marveling at the flaming red, arid valleys you've traversed. The G318 National Highway, resembling two bright ribbons, weaves its way through the myriad mountains and valleys.

Finally, you will arrive in Zogang.

Stay overnight in Zogang.

Today, you'll embrace an exhilarating challenge as you descend rapidly through the most spectacular and thrilling mountain road, the legendary Nujiang 72 Turns.

After breakfast, your journey begins from Zuogong, heading west to reach another vast grassland wetland, the Bangda Grassland. Here, herds of cattle and sheep graze leisurely on the expansive grassland, offering picturesque pastoral scenery.

Next, prepare for an exciting challenge. Within just 12 kilometers, you'll descend rapidly from the 4,650-meter Yela Mountain Pass to the Nujiang River at an altitude of 2,800 meters. This stretch, known as the "Nujiang 72 Turns," is the most thrilling section on the G318 route. Standing atop the mountain, the winding road resembles a sinuous dragon with countless 180-degree hairpin turns before reaching the riverside, seemingly endless at first glance.

Continuing westward, snow-capped mountains, forests, and Tibetan villages gradually come into view, immersing you in the idyllic landscapes of eastern Tibet.

Finally, you'll arrive at tonight's destination, the enchanting Ranwu Lake, one of the most captivating lakes in eastern Tibet. Here, your day's journey concludes against the backdrop of this picturesque lake.

Stay overnight by the lake.

Today, immerse yourself entirely in the picturesque landscapes of eastern Tibet, as you admire the snow-capped mountains along the lakeshore and explore the hidden glaciers within the forests of eastern Tibet.

In the morning, after breakfast, you'll arrive at Ranwu Lake, acclaimed as the most beautiful lake in eastern Tibet. The narrow, azure lake and over 20 kilometers of lakeshore gently guide you through forests, snow-capped mountains, flower-strewn meadows, tranquil Tibetan pastoral scenes, and villages. Here, it feels like discovering a serene and peaceful sanctuary amidst the hustle and bustle of city life.

Next, your guide will take you to another hidden gem in eastern Tibet—the Midui Glacier. Revered as China's most beautiful glacier and the world's lowest-altitude glacier, Midui Glacier descends from an elevation of 6,800 meters down to its tongue near the lake at 2,400 meters. Nestled within the dense forest, the glacier, the blue lake, and the lush forest create a dreamlike and enchanting Eden. Especially during deep autumn, the vibrant forest turns this secret haven into a fairy-tale world. If you wish, you can choose to hike to the foot of the glacier and touch its massive tongue.

Stay overnight in Bome.

Today, you will venture into the lush forested areas of Tibet, traversing through vibrant green woodlands.

In the morning, after breakfast, depart from Bomi and continue your journey to the east. The snowy peaks before you become even more enchanting, and the forests denser. Snow-capped mountains seem like diamonds embedded in the clear sky, a breathtaking sight. Below the snow-capped peaks lies an expansive forest, with wisps of white clouds floating between the mountains and the forest.

Soon, you'll arrive at the Guxiang lake hidden within the forest and ascend to the Sejila Mountain pass at an altitude of 4,702 meters. From this vantage point, you'll gaze upon the renowned snow-covered peak—Namcha Barwa, situated at the eastern end of the Himalayas. The towering Namcha Barwa resembles a majestic spear, with its snow-covered summit sparkling like diamonds against the blue sky.

Continuing your journey, you'll reach the second viewpoint for observing Namcha Barwa—the Lulang Forest Scenic Area. Here, you'll once again witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Namcha Barwa rising above the vast forest.

After savoring the visual feast brought by the snow-capped peaks and dense forests, you'll arrive at the Lulang International Tourism Town. Here, you can indulge in the local delicacies of Lulang Forest and stroll through the town, experiencing its tranquil and leisurely atmosphere.

In the evening, you'll reach Bayi Town, the most prosperous in eastern Tibet. Here, you'll have the opportunity to taste the renowned stone-pot chicken of Nyingchi.

Note:
The visibility of Namcha Barwa depends on the prevailing weather conditions.

Stay overnight in Nyiching City (Bayi Town).

Today marks the final leg of your journey through eastern Tibet as you explore the picturesque Basumtso Lake before embarking on a drive to the sacred city of Lhasa.

After breakfast, your guide will accompany you to Basumtso Lake for sightseeing. Unlike other lakes in Tibet, Basumtso Lake holds special significance in the Tibetan Bon religion. The central island of the lake resembles a serene water garden, surrounded by azure waters and ancient trees concealing temples. It stands out from other temples and landmarks along the G318 route. Here, you will visit the millennium-old temple on the central island, the Tsodzong Gompa, immersing yourself in the ancient and profound religious culture.

Subsequently, you will drive along the expressway connecting Lhasa and Bayi, passing a section along the Nyang River that provides a surreal sensation of cruising over a blue ocean.

The magnificent view of the towering Potala Palace signals the end of your remarkable journey along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway. Welcome to the sacred city of Lhasa!

Upon arrival, your guide and driver will escort you to your hotel, allowing you to wash away the dust of the road and relax in this revered city.

Travel Tip:
On the first day in Lhasa, it is recommended to take it easy, slow down your pace, and allow your body to acclimatize to the high altitude. Avoid bathing and washing your hair if possible, add extra layers of clothing to prevent cold, and prepare yourself for the upcoming journey.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Today, after breakfast, immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Lhasa as you explore the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street, gaining insights into the daily lives and beliefs of the people of Lhasa.

Your first destination is the majestic Potala Palace, offering a breathtaking view of Lhasa. Your guide will provide detailed insights into the lives and legends of the Dalai Lamas throughout history, delving into the architecture and treasures housed within the palace.

After lunch, delve into the heart of Tibetan faith and life at the Jokhang Temple. Housing the rare 12-year-old statue of Sakyamuni, the temple provides an awe-inspiring encounter with the Buddha. In the Jokhang Square, witness devoted pilgrims offering prayers before the temple.

Explore the lively Barkhor Street surrounding the Jokhang Temple, where you can join locals in the clockwise kora (circumambulation) and observe their religious practices.

Next, follow your guide to one of Lhasa's vibrant teahouses. Share a cup of sweet tea with locals and engage in casual conversations to gain insights into their daily lives.

Conclude your day by stepping into the oldest existing residential courtyard in Lhasa, the Ping’an Courtyard, immersing yourself in the living environment of Lhasa residents. Visit the ancient monastery, Muru Temple, located at the heart of the residential area.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Today, after breakfast, you’ll begin your road journey from Lhasa to the hidden gem of Shigatse in the rear part of Tibet. During the trip, you'll explore the sacred lake Yamdrok, enjoying delightful moments in a Tibetan village along its shores.

Traversing the 4,900-meter-high Gamba La Pass, you'll encounter the enchanting Yamdrok Lake. The azure waters resemble a sparkling gem. Standing at Gamba La Pass, you'll be treated to views of the lake's ribbon-like blue surface and the distant snow-capped Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains (7,191 meters). Several viewpoints along the lakeshore provide ample opportunities to appreciate the beauty of Yamdrok Lake.

After departing from Yamdrok Lake, your journey continues to the picturesque Karola Glacier. Be awe-struck by the glacier's ice tongue, which blankets the entire mountainside, seemingly within arm's reach.

En route to Gyantse, stop at the Simila Pass. Here, you can follow the local tradition of hanging prayer flags, offering your wishes. Upon reaching Gyantse, take some time to capture the ancient charm of Gyantse Old Town.

Resume your journey to today's destination, Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest city. Along the way, pass through lush barley fields, vibrant green in summer and golden in autumn. On this day, immerse yourself completely in the natural landscapes, enjoying the rich colors and awe-inspiring scenery crafted by Mother Nature.

Stay overnight in Shigatse.

Today's main activity is a visit to the largest monastery in Shigatse, the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery. Afterwards, you will return to the sacred city of Lhasa.

After breakfast, your guide will take you to explore the TashiLhunpo Monastery, the residence of the Panchen Lama and the largest monastery in Shigatse. The monastery is grand and magnificent, with golden halls covering the entire hillside. It serves as a spiritual home for the locals, housing the world's largest bronze statue of Maitreya Buddha. As you enter the monastery, you'll witness monks in red robes and yellow hats moving about the premises. If you're fortunate, you might even witness a religious ceremony.

Following your visit to the monastery, bid farewell to Shigatse and make your way back to Lhasa.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Today, your guide will take you to the airport or train station and assist you with boarding. Remember to share your departure flight or train information with your guide beforehand. This marks the end of your tour.