Shalu to Nartang Trek - 8 Days

Day 1 Arrival in Lhasa

Your journey begins with your arrival in Lhasa at an altitude of 3,650 meters, where a friendly Tibetan guide will warmly welcome you with a traditional white Hada scarf. After meeting your guide, you will be transferred to your hotel in the city. During the drive, you may catch glimpses of the surrounding Tibetan landscapes and learn about the upcoming itinerary. Once checked in, the rest of the day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization to the high altitude, allowing your body to gradually adjust to the thin mountain air before the adventure begins.

Day 2 Lhasa Tour - Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery (B)

Today you will explore two of Tibet’s most significant monasteries. The morning begins with a visit to Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in Tibet and home to thousands of monks. As you walk through the halls and temples, your guide will explain the rich history and philosophy of Tibetan Buddhism. In the afternoon, you will visit Sera Monastery, famous for its lively monk debates that take place in the courtyard. Watching monks debate Buddhist philosophy is a fascinating cultural experience and offers a unique insight into the intellectual traditions of Tibetan monastic life.

Day 3 Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street (B)

After breakfast, you will visit the iconic Potala Palace, the historic residence of the Dalai Lamas and one of the most recognizable landmarks in Tibet. While exploring its magnificent halls and sacred rooms, you will learn about the spiritual and political history of Tibet. Later, you will visit Jokhang Temple, the most sacred temple in Tibetan Buddhism, where pilgrims from across Tibet come to pray. Surrounding the temple is Barkhor Street, a vibrant marketplace filled with traditional shops, prayer items, and local crafts, offering a wonderful opportunity to experience Tibetan culture and daily life.

Day 4 Lhasa - Gyantse - Shalu Monastery (B)

Today marks the start of an incredible overland journey from Lhasa through the dramatic landscapes of Tibet. Crossing the high Gampala Pass, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the stunning turquoise Yamdrok Lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Along the route you will also pass the impressive Karola Glacier and stop at scenic viewpoints. Later, you will explore the historic Pelkor Monastery and Gyantse Kumbum before continuing to Shalu Monastery, an ancient monastery known for its unique architecture and spiritual significance. The day ends with camping near the monastery.

Day 5 Shalu - Upper Lungsang (Trek 5-6 hrs., 12km)

Today your trekking adventure begins as you hike through the peaceful Tibetan countryside toward Upper Lungsang. The trail passes through traditional villages, farming fields, hermitages, and high mountain passes, providing a wonderful glimpse into rural Tibetan life. Along the way, you will witness how local communities practice Buddhism in their everyday lives. After trekking for about five to six hours across scenic landscapes and mountain trails, you will arrive at the campsite in Upper Lungsang where you will spend the night.

Day 6 Upper Lungsang - Ngor Monastery - Nartang Monastery - Shigatse (Trek 5 - 6 hrs., 14km)

After breakfast, the trek continues through beautiful farmland and remote Tibetan villages. The trail leads you to Ngor Village where you can visit the historic Ngor Monastery, famous for its ancient murals and Sanskrit library. Continuing the trek, you will cross the Char-la Pass at around 4,450 meters and walk through rugged mountain terrain that was once part of an old trading route. Eventually, the trek ends near Nartang where your vehicle will take you to Shigatse, the second largest city in Tibet, for an overnight stay.

Day 7 Shigatse to Lhasa (B)

In the morning, you will visit Tashilunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama and one of the most important monasteries in Tibet. The monastery complex stretches across the hillside and houses magnificent halls, statues, and sacred chapels including a massive statue of Maitreya Buddha. After exploring the monastery, you will drive back to Lhasa along the scenic Yarlung Tsangpo River, enjoying the beautiful Tibetan landscapes along the way before arriving in Lhasa for your final overnight stay.

Day 8 Depart from Lhasa (B)

After breakfast, your Tibet adventure comes to an end. Depending on your travel arrangements, your guide will transfer you to the airport or train station and assist with your departure procedures. As you leave Lhasa, you will take with you unforgettable memories of Tibet’s spiritual heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and unique cultural experiences.