Overview
Embark on a spiritual and cultural journey through the sacred heartland of Eastern Tibet — the Kham region. This immersive tour explores key monastic centers across multiple Tibetan Buddhist traditions, including Gelugpa, Kagyupa, Sakyapa, and Nyingmapa.
Kham has long been a cornerstone of Tibetan Buddhism, gaining prominence in the 11th century and later becoming a spiritual stronghold during the Yuan and Qing dynasties. On this route — primarily along the northern section of the Sichuan-Tibet Highway — we’ll visit culturally rich towns like Kangding, Xinduqiao, Garze (Kanze), Pelyul, and Derge. These locations played historical roles in supporting the journey of Princess Wencheng during her royal marriage to Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century.
This expedition offers not only a deep dive into religious traditions but also breathtaking views of the Tibetan Plateau’s valleys, lakes, and mountain passes.
Important Notes
- Altitude sickness may affect some travelers. Acclimatize properly and stay hydrated.
- Weather in the Tibetan Plateau can be unpredictable — pack layered clothing and rain gear.
- Be respectful in monasteries: no photos unless permitted, and dress modestly.
- Electricity outages may occur in rural areas — bring a flashlight or headlamp.
- Cash is preferred in rural towns; carry enough Chinese Yuan as ATMs may be scarce.
Tour Facts
- Price: $1,299 – $1,499
- Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
- Trip Start: Chengdu
- Trip End: Chengdu
- Group Size: Minimum 3 – Maximum 12
- Single Supplement: $367 (for single occupancy)
What’s Included
- ✔ Licensed English-speaking Tibetan guide
- ✔ All listed accommodations (twin-share basis)
- ✔ Private ground transportation throughout the tour
- ✔ All listed entrance fees
- ✔ Meals as specified in the itinerary
- ✔ Airport/train station pick-up and drop-off
What’s Not Included
- ✘ Medical and travel insurance
- ✘ China visa fees
- ✘ Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- ✘ Personal expenses
- ✘ Sleeping bags or personal trekking gear (if needed)
- ✘ Single supplement fee (unless selected)
Itinerary
Click each day to view detailed program
Day 1 – Arrival in Chengdu
Arrive in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. After airport pick-up, enjoy a welcome walk through People’s Park and visit a traditional Chinese tea house — a window into local daily life.
Overnight: Minshan Lhasa Grand Hotel
Meals: Breakfast included; Lunch and Dinner not included
Day 2 – Chengdu to Xinduqiao (via Kangding)
Depart early for Xinduqiao (8–9 hrs drive). On the way, we stop at Kangding (2,650 m), the gateway to the Tibetan Plateau. Walk through this charming valley town and interact with locals. Then cross Mt. Dzeto Pass (4,323 m) before descending to Xinduqiao (3,300 m), a Tibetan town known for its iconic landscapes.
Overnight: Jin Qiu Mu Ma Hotel
Meals: Breakfast included; Lunch and Dinner not included
Day 3 – Xinduqiao to Garze (Kanze)
Travel through Bamei, Dawu, and Luhuo. Visit Lhagang Monastery and Lhagang Pasture. In Dawu, explore Nyingtro Gonpa, a Gelugpa monastery famed for its architecture. From Luhuo, ascend through Haizi Mountain and enjoy panoramic views of Kasa Lake before arriving in Garze.
Overnight: Tang Gu La Hotel
Meals: Breakfast included; Lunch and Dinner not included
Day 4 – Garze to Pelyul (Baiyu)
Drive 230 km toward Pelyul through the glacial Kawalingring Range, which separates the Yangtze and Yarlung River basins. Detour to visit Yarchen Gar Nunnery (subject to local restrictions). Arrive in Pelyul, nestled along the Jinshajiang River near the Sichuan-Tibet border.
Overnight: Cha Qing Song Duo Hotel
Meals: Breakfast included; Lunch and Dinner not included
Day 5 – Pelyul to Derge, with Visits to Dzongsar & Palpung Monasteries
Explore Dzongsar Monastery (Sakyapa) and Palpung Monastery (Kagyupa), both located in adjacent scenic valleys. A short hike connects the two. These monasteries are architectural and spiritual gems surrounded by lush forests — offering a unique perspective of Tibetan culture. Proceed to Derge for the night.
Overnight: Ying Jin Yuan Hotel
Meals: Breakfast included; Lunch and Dinner not included
Day 6 – Derge to Garze (via Xinlu Lake)
Begin the day visiting Derge Printing House, one of the most important Tibetan cultural institutions, still printing scriptures with traditional woodblocks. If accessible, visit Targyel Lhakhang, a shrine dedicated to Padmasambhava. Travel past Mt. Trola through a modern tunnel, then stop at stunning Xinlu Lake before reaching Garze.
Overnight: Tang Gu La Hotel
Meals: Breakfast included; Lunch and Dinner not included
Day 7 – Garze to Danba (via Huiyuan Monastery)
Drive to Danba with a detour to Huiyuan Temple (Gatar Shangbalin), where the 7th Dalai Lama meditated. The birthplace of the 11th Panchen Lama is also visible here. En route, enjoy views of Mt. Yarla Yartso. Arrive in Danba — home of the ancient stone watchtowers — and stay in a local Tibetan homestay.
Overnight: Tibetan Homestay
Meals: Breakfast included; Lunch and Dinner not included
Day 8 – Danba to Chengdu (via Panda Base)
Return to Chengdu via scenic mountain roads. On arrival, visit the Chengdu Panda Breeding Center — an unforgettable chance to see China’s most beloved animal.
Overnight: Minshan Lhasa Grand Hotel
Meals: Breakfast included; Lunch and Dinner not included
Day 9 – Departure from Chengdu
Transfer to Chengdu airport or train station. Your spiritual journey through the sacred sites of Kham concludes here.
Overnight: Not included
Meals: Breakfast included; Lunch and Dinner not included
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any special permits to visit Kham?
Currently, no special permits are required for foreigners to travel in most parts of Kham within Sichuan Province. Your guide will assist with any required registration or documentation during the trip.
What level of physical fitness is required?
This tour includes long drives and moderate walking or light hiking at high altitudes (up to 4,300 meters). While no technical trekking is involved, participants should be in good health and comfortable with altitude.
Can vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, most dietary preferences can be accommodated with advance notice. Please let us know in advance so we can communicate with hotels and restaurants along the route.
What kind of accommodation should I expect?
The tour includes a mix of 3-star hotels and local Tibetan homestays. Accommodations are comfortable but may be basic in remote areas. All rooms are based on twin-sharing.
Will there be internet or mobile signal during the tour?
Wi-Fi and mobile signal are available in most towns, but expect limited or no connectivity in remote areas.
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