10D9N Journey to the Roof of the World with Tibet Rail
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to the Roof of the World, where ancient Tibetan culture and awe-inspiring landscapes converge. From the majestic Potala Palace in Lhasa to the tranquil beauty of Namtso Lake, this 10-day adventure will immerse you in the heart of Tibet's spiritual and natural wonders. Travel aboard the iconic Qinghai Tibet Railway, experience sacred monasteries, and explore breathtaking glaciers, all while staying in luxurious accommodations that elevate every moment of your journey.
Tour Duration: 10 Days 9 Nights
Tour Price: Starting from SGD 2,180
Key Features:
- Qinghai Lake – A stunning high-altitude lake, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and serene waters.
- Qinghai Tibet Railway – A remarkable railway journey offering stunning views of the Tibetan Plateau.
- Potala Palace – An iconic Tibetan palace and monastery, a symbol of Tibetan culture and history.
- Jokhang Temple – A sacred temple in Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet, revered by Buddhists worldwide.
- Drepung Monastery – One of the largest monasteries in Tibet, offering a rich history and tranquil surroundings.
- Norbulingka Park – A beautiful park with the Dalai Lama’s summer palace, lush gardens, and Tibetan architecture.
- Kampala Pass – A scenic mountain pass with spectacular views of the Tibetan Plateau and surrounding landscapes.
- Karola Glacier – A striking glacier with incredible views, offering a true taste of the Tibetan wilderness.
- Gyantse Kumbum – A remarkable stupa in the town of Gyantse, showcasing Tibetan Buddhist art and architecture.
- Tashilunpo Monastery – A historic monastery in Shigatse, home to one of the largest Buddha statues in Tibet.
- Namtso Lake – A stunning sacred lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offering spiritual and natural beauty.
| Transportation: | Private air-conditioned vehicle, Qinghai Tibet Railway |
| Local Guide: | Chinese Speaking Guide |
| Meet & Greet: | At Xining Airport |
Itinerary at a Glance:
| Location | Suggested Hotel |
|---|---|
| 01 Night in Xining | Wanda Realm Xining or similar |
| 05 Nights in Lhasa | Shangri-La Hotel/Intercontinental or similar |
| 01 Night in Shigatse | Hilton Hotel or similar |
| 01 Night in Chengdu | Joyhub Air Hotel or similar |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Xining
Depart for your flight to Xining, which was formerly known as the “South Railway for the Silk Road.” Upon arrival, you will be met by a local guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Take the rest of the day to relax and acclimate to the local environment before an exciting journey ahead.
Activities & Services:
- Arrival and Transfer to Hotel
Day 2: Xining – Qinghai Lake – Qinghai Tibet Railway
Today, we will experience the contrast between the Loess Plateau and the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, as well as the cultural differences between Chinese and Tibetan heritage. Start with a long-distance view of the Ri Yue Mountain, Ri Pavilion, Yue Pavilion, and the DaoTang River.
Another highlight of the day is Qinghai Lake (Koko Nor), the largest inland saltwater lake in China. This surreal-looking saline lake, teeming with fish, is an unforgettable sight. After visiting Qinghai Lake, return to Xining and board the night train to Lhasa.
As you travel on the highest-altitude railway in the world, reaching up to 4,000 meters above sea level, you will pass stunning landscapes, including snow-capped Kunlun Mountains, grasslands dotted with black yaks, and golden-topped temples adorned with prayer flags. The Qinghai-Tibet Railway offers a unique glimpse into the remote beauty of Tibet, passing glaciers, peaks, shimmering salt lakes, and charming villages.
To help prevent altitude sickness, the train is equipped with an oxygen supply system, increasing oxygen levels in the cabin as it ascends. The temperature is regulated, and the windows are UV-coated for protection against high-altitude rays.
Note: To ensure the comfort of all passengers, we will do our utmost to arrange for everyone to stay in the same cabin. Rooming will be arranged according to the group size and age.
Activities & Services:
- Qinghai Lake Visit
- Boarding Qinghai-Tibet Railway
Included: Breakfast
Day 3: Qinghai Tibet Railway - Lhasa
Today, continue your spectacular journey towards Lhasa, passing through significant landmarks such as Xining, Ge’ermu, Tuotuo River, Anduo, Naqu, and Dangxiong, before finally reaching Lhasa. All meals onboard the train will be at your own expense.
En route, you'll witness the stunning landscapes of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, which include a diverse range of natural wonders. The land of snow will blend with desert vistas, grasslands, and ice-capped mountains, while lakes such as Qinghai Lake, Namtso Lake, and the Qarhan Salt Bridge will greet you along the way.
The journey offers an extraordinary tour of the elevated highlights of Qinghai and northern Tibet. Marvel at the expansive Qiangtang Prairie, the vast Gobi Desert, and the wildlife-rich Kekexili Nature Reserve, where you might spot Tibetan antelope and wild yak. Dramatic moments unfold as the train moves alongside the sparkling Qinghai Lake, skirts the legendary Namtso Lake, and passes the Tanggula Mountains, which are snow-covered all year round.
Arrive in Lhasa in the evening. Lhasa, the capital of the mystical Buddhist kingdom of Tibet, is regarded by millions of pilgrims as the world center of holiness.
After your arrival, enjoy dinner before transferring to your accommodation for the night. It’s essential to take ample rest to acclimatize to the high altitude.
Activities & Services:
- Train Journey through Tibet
Included: Breakfast
Day 4: Lhasa
After breakfast, meet your guide in the hotel lobby to begin your exciting day in Lhasa.
Your first stop will be the Potala Palace, an iconic symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and one of the highest palaces in the world. Built in the 7th century by the famous Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo, the Potala Palace stands at over 3,700 meters (12,000 feet) above sea level on Red Hill. It once served as the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas and remains a major pilgrimage site, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The palace is not only an architectural marvel but also an art treasure. Inside, you’ll find vivid murals that depict Buddhist stories and the rich culture of ancient Tibet, with the second-floor corridor showcasing the most magnificent 698 murals that feature Buddhist themes and the customs of Tibet.
After your visit, enjoy lunch before heading to the Jokhang Temple, located in the heart of the old section of Lhasa. This ancient temple, with a history spanning over 1,400 years, is the oldest and holiest religious site in Tibet. It remains the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.
Next, visit the bustling Barkhor Street, a round street surrounding the Jokhang Temple, where you can shop for local souvenirs such as handmade Tibetan crafts, prayer wheels, butter lamps, Thangkas, incense, and leather goods. The vibrant street offers a chance to experience the unique culture of Tibet.
Activities & Services:
- Potala Palace Visit
- Jokhang Temple Visit
- Barkhor Street Exploration
Included: Breakfast
Day 5: Lhasa
After breakfast, meet your guide in the hotel lobby to begin your exploration of Lhasa's iconic sights.
The first stop of the day is Drepung Monastery, one of the largest Tibetan monasteries in the world. Located at the foot of Gambo Utse Mountain, Drepung is one of the Great Three Gelug Monasteries in Tibet, alongside Sera and Ganden monasteries. The name “Drepung” in Tibetan means “the hill of rice,” and from a distance, the monastery’s white buildings look like a pile of rice. Covering an area of 150,000 square meters and housing over 7,700 monks, it once had the largest number of monks of any monastery in Tibet, making it the largest monastery in Asia. The monastery offers a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere, providing a glimpse into Tibetan monastic life.
Next, you will visit Norbulingka Park, a beautiful and historic site in Lhasa. The name "Norbulingka" means "Treasure Park" in Tibetan. The park showcases a unique blend of Tibetan and inland Chinese architecture. In 1752, the 7th Dalai Lama constructed the first palace here, which was used by successive Dalai Lamas as their summer residence, where they would conduct both political and religious activities. Today, Norbulingka has transformed into a public park where locals and visitors can enjoy picnics, relax, and engage in recreational activities, all while surrounded by serene gardens and the historic palaces of the Dalai Lamas.
Activities & Services:
- Drepung Monastery Visit
- Norbulingka Park Visit
Included: Breakfast
Day 6: Lhasa – Gyantse – Shigatse
After breakfast, meet your guide in the hotel lobby to embark on a scenic drive towards Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city.
The journey begins with a breathtaking ascent to the Kampala Pass (4,797m), where you will be rewarded with a spectacular bird’s-eye view of Yamdrok Lake, one of the three holy lakes of Tibet. The lake’s turquoise waters stretch across the vast plateau, creating a striking contrast against the surrounding snow-capped mountains. In the distance, admire the sacred Mount Nyenchen Khangsar, standing majestically at 7,191 meters.
Continuing the journey, stop at Karola Glacier, a stunning natural wonder located between Ngarzhag County of Shannan and Gyantse County of Shigatse. The glacier, with its cascading ice formations, is one of the most accessible glaciers in Tibet, offering a chance to witness the raw beauty of the region up close.
Next, travel along the southern Friendship Highway to reach Gyantse, a historic town known for its well-preserved Tibetan culture. Here, visit the remarkable Gyantse Kumbum, an extraordinary multi-tiered stupa that is considered one of Tibet’s most stunning architectural marvels. Adorned with 108 chapels, intricate murals, and sacred relics, it remains one of the most important Buddhist structures in Tibet.
Finally, continue your journey to Shigatse, the cultural and religious center of western Tibet. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and rest for the night.
Activities & Services:
- Kampa Pass Visit
- Karola Glacier Visit
- Gyantse Kumbum Visit
Included: Breakfast
Day 7: Shigatse – Lhasa
After breakfast, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and begin the day with a visit to Tashilunpo Monastery, one of the six major monasteries of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Founded in 1447 by the First Dalai Lama, it later became the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, the second most important spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism.
Within the monastery, marvel at the 28-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha statue, the largest gilded statue in Tibet, symbolizing the future Buddha. Explore the intricate Stupa-tomb of the Tenth Panchen Lama, adorned with gold and precious stones, reflecting the deep reverence Tibetans hold for their spiritual leaders. The monastery’s sprawling complex, with its golden rooftops, whitewashed walls, and red chapels, offers a glimpse into the rich religious traditions of Tibet.
Afterward, embark on a scenic drive back to Lhasa, retracing the breathtaking landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the art of Tibetan Thangka, a traditional Buddhist painting style that depicts deities, mandalas, and sacred symbols with exquisite detail and vibrant colors.
Conclude the day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Tibetan flavors before returning to your accommodation for the night.
Activities & Services:
- Tashilunpo Monastery Visit
Included: Breakfast
Day 8: Lhasa – Namtso Lake – Lhasa
Today, embark on a breathtaking journey to one of Tibet’s most stunning natural wonders, Namtso Lake, often referred to as the "Heavenly Lake." After an early breakfast, meet your guide and driver at the hotel and set out on a four-hour scenic drive across the vast Tibetan plateau. Along the way, marvel at the ever-changing landscapes of snow-capped mountains, expansive grasslands, and nomadic settlements. Feel free to request stops to capture the picturesque scenery and experience the tranquility of this sacred land.
Situated at 4,718 meters above sea level, Namtso Lake is the highest saltwater lake in the world and the second-largest in China after Qinghai Lake. It is considered one of Tibet’s three holy lakes, alongside Yamdrok Lake and Lake Manasarovar. Encircled by the Nyenchen Tanglha Mountain Range, the lake’s shimmering turquoise waters stretch endlessly into the horizon, creating a surreal and serene atmosphere. The lake is also home to over 1,500 smaller lakes and five sacred islands, which once served as meditation retreats for Tibetan monks.
Spend time exploring the lake’s pristine shores, taking in the crystal-clear reflections of the mountains, and witnessing local nomads herding yaks and sheep. The spiritual ambiance and unspoiled beauty of Namtso make it a dream destination for photographers and nature lovers alike.
In the afternoon, begin the return journey to Lhasa, taking in the spectacular high-altitude landscapes one last time. Upon arrival, check in to your accommodation and rest for the night, reflecting on the awe-inspiring natural wonders of Tibet.
Activities & Services:
- Namtso Lake Visit
Included: Breakfast
Day 9: Lhasa – Chengdu
After breakfast, your guide will meet you at the hotel lobby for your transfer to Lhasa Gonggar Airport. Along the way, take one last look at the breathtaking Tibetan landscapes and reflect on the incredible journey through this mystical land.
Upon arrival in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, you will be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax at leisure—unwind at the hotel, explore Chengdu’s vibrant city life, or enjoy a taste of the region’s renowned Sichuan cuisine.
Activities & Services:
- Arrival in Chengdu
Included: Breakfast
Day 10: Depart from Chengdu
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning before your scheduled departure. At the designated time, you will be transferred to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport for your flight back.
As you bid farewell to China, take with you the unforgettable memories of breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, rich Tibetan culture, and remarkable experiences along the journey.
Board your flight home, bringing back cherished moments and stories to share from your Himalaya Summit Tour.
Activities & Services:
- Airport Transfer
Included: Breakfast
Please note: This itinerary is designed to give you an idea of what to expect on the tour but is not set in stone. What we actually do on a given day is flexible and can be tailored based on the interests of the group.
TOUR PRICE INCLUDES:
- Meet & Greet by our representative upon arrival.
- Breakfast as defined in the itinerary.
- All transfers as indicated in the itinerary.
- Tours as described in the itinerary with a fully qualified Chinese-speaking local guide (unless otherwise stated).
- Accommodation in double/twin bedded rooms in hotels stated in the itinerary, or similar.
- Should the hotel/lodge quoted, not be available we will endeavour to book an alternative property based on the same/similar rate and grading as the quoted property.
- Entrance Fee where applicable in the itinerary, unless otherwise stated.
TOUR PRICE EXCLUDES:
- All Airfares (International / Domestic) & airport taxes.
- Costs associated with obtaining visas/entry requirements.
- Items of a personal nature, such as laundry, telephone calls, room service, alcoholic beverages, minibar charges, etc.
- Any tours not specified within the above itinerary.
- Early check-in / Late Check-out.
- Excess baggage.
- Gratuities for Tour Guide and Driver.
- Other items not mentioned in the Tour Price INCLUDES list.
This itinerary and its package inclusions might be changed later in time, subject to availability.