Nyingchi Tour: The “Switzerland of Tibet”

Altitude: 3,650m

Welcome to Lhasa! Upon your arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport, your guide will greet you and escort you to your hotel. The drive from the airport to Lhasa takes approximately one hour, following the Lhasa River through scenic valleys.

The remainder of the day is dedicated to rest and acclimatisation to the high altitude. At 3,650 meters, Lhasa demands respect—it is essential to take things easy, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and allow your body to adjust. Your guide will advise on gentle activities and monitor your well-being.

In the evening, you may take a short stroll in the neighbourhood to get your first feel of the Tibetan capital. Overnight in Lhasa.

Altitude: 3,650m

This morning, we explore Tibet's most iconic landmark: the magnificent Potala Palace. Perched atop Marpo Ri hill, this UNESCO World Heritage site was originally constructed in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo and later expanded to serve as the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. With its thousand rooms, chapels, and stunning views over Lhasa, the Potala offers a fascinating glimpse into Tibet's religious and political history.

In the afternoon, we visit the Jokhang Temple, the holiest shrine in Tibet. Built in 647, it houses the revered Jowo Shakyamuni Buddha statue. Thousands of pilgrims come daily to worship, prostrating themselves in devotion.

We then step outside to join the pilgrims on the sacred kora around Barkhor Street, the bustling pilgrim circuit surrounding the Jokhang. This vibrant market teems with religious artefacts and local crafts—a perfect place to observe Tibetan life and perhaps purchase souvenirs.

Overnight in Lhasa.

Altitude: 3,650m–2,900m | Driving: 400km, 5-6 hours

After breakfast, we depart Lhasa and begin our journey east toward Nyingchi. The Lhasa–Nyingchi Highway (part of G318) offers one of the most scenic drives in Tibet, winding through mountain passes and river valleys .

Along the way, we pass through the Mira Pass Tunnel and descend into the lush Nyang River Valley, where the landscape transforms dramatically—barren highlands give way to verdant forests, rushing rivers, and traditional Tibetan villages .

We arrive in Bayi District, Nyingchi's main urban centre, in the late afternoon. At just 2,900 meters, the air feels noticeably thicker and more oxygen-rich than in Lhasa. This lower altitude makes Nyingchi an ideal destination for travellers concerned about altitude sickness.

After checking into our hotel, you'll have time to explore the town or simply rest. Overnight in Nyingchi (Bayi District).

Altitude: 2,900m–4,720m | Driving: 150km round trip

Today, we explore the highlights of the Nyingchi region.

Morning: Sejila Pass & Mount Namcha Barwa

We drive to Sejila Mountain Pass (4,720m), the best vantage point to view Mount Namcha Barwa (7,782m) , considered one of China's most beautiful snow mountains. On clear days, the mountain's sharp peak rises dramatically above the clouds. From October to February, you might witness the breathtaking "Sunlit Golden Mountain" spectacle at sunrise or sunset, when the snow-covered summit gradually glows gold and then soft pink.

The pass itself is adorned with fluttering prayer flags, adding to the sacred atmosphere. In spring (May–June), the hillsides are covered in blooming rhododendrons.

Afternoon: Lulang Forest

We continue to Lulang Forest, an alpine meadow known in Tibetan as "a place that makes you forget to go home" . This lush valley is filled with meadows, wildflowers, grazing yaks, and traditional Tibetan houses, all set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.

Lulang is famous for its stone pot chicken, a local delicacy cooked with spring water, herbal ingredients, and chicken in a traditional stone pot . We'll stop here for lunch to savour this Nyingchi specialty.

The Lulang Forest Observation Platform offers panoramic views of the entire valley. In autumn (September–November), the trees turn golden, creating a warm contrast with the white mountains beyond. We return to Nyingchi in the late afternoon. Overnight in Nyingchi.

Altitude: 2,900m–3,700m | Driving: 350km, 6-7 hours

Morning: Basum Tso Lake (Draksum-tso)

After breakfast, we depart Nyingchi and drive to Basum Tso (also known as Draksum-tso or Basongcuo), one of Tibet's most beautiful alpine lakes and a national 5A scenic area. At 3,700 meters, this turquoise lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense forests.

On Tashi Island in the centre of the lake stands Tsogong Monastery, a 1,500-year-old temple of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. The island can be reached by boat or footbridge, and the reflection of the ancient temple in the crystal-clear water creates one of Tibet's most photographed scenes.

With a private vehicle, you can venture deeper into the valley to Xincuo, a quieter area where few visitors go. Here, you can walk along the lakeshore, surrounded by untouched nature, and watch herds of yaks move slowly across the stony beach.

Afternoon: Return to Lhasa

After lunch, we continue our journey back to Lhasa, following the scenic highway through mountain passes and river valleys. We arrive in Lhasa in the late evening. Overnight in Lhasa.

Altitude: 3,650m–4,794m | Driving: 200km round trip

Today, we venture south of Lhasa to visit one of Tibet's three holy lakes.

We cross the dramatic Kampa La Pass (4,794m), where the turquoise expanse of Yamdrok Lake suddenly unfolds below—a sight that never fails to inspire awe. The lake's pincer-shaped waters stretch for miles, reflecting the massive massif of Mount Nojin Kangtsang (7,191m).

We continue along the lakeshore and visit the stunning Karola Glacier, which cascades down the mountain right beside the road—a rare opportunity to stand close to an active glacier.

We return to Lhasa in the late afternoon. In the evening, you may wish to see the Potala Palace at night, illuminated against the dark sky—a magical sight. Overnight in Lhasa.

Altitude: 3,650m

After breakfast, your guide will transfer you to Lhasa Gonggar Airport for your onward journey, taking with you the memories of Tibet's diverse landscapes—from the sacred temples of Lhasa to the lush forests and turquoise lakes of Nyingchi. End of services.