Overview
The Derge Trek takes you deep into the heart of the historic Kham region of Eastern Tibet. Derge, once the capital of one of the five major kingdoms in Kham, remains a cultural treasure of Tibetan heritage. This off-the-beaten-path journey starts in the secluded village of Dzongsar, hidden in a tranquil valley near the Jinsha River, and ends in the rugged frontier town of Manigango—believed to be the legendary battlefield where King Gesar vanquished evil forces. Trek through remote valleys, experience ancient monasteries, and witness some of the most breathtaking alpine landscapes on the Tibetan Plateau.
Important Notes
- A good level of fitness is required; training with light hiking prior to departure is recommended.
- Pack layers and waterproof gear, as weather in the mountains can change quickly.
- Respect local customs and religious sites; always ask before taking photos.
- Due to the remote location, mobile signal and internet access are limited during the trek.
- This itinerary may be subject to minor changes due to weather or logistical reasons.
Tour Facts
- Duration: 12 Days
- Price: USD $1,999 – $2,199
- Activity: Trekking, Cultural Exploration in Eastern Tibet (Kham)
- Group Size: Minimum 5, Maximum 16
- Single Supplement: $326 (for private room accommodation)
- Trip Start & End: Chengdu, China
What’s Included
- ✔️ English-speaking licensed Tibetan guide
- ✔️ All accommodation (double occupancy)
- ✔️ Airport transfers in Chengdu
- ✔️ All listed entrance fees
- ✔️ All meals as specified in the itinerary
- ✔️ Private transportation during the tour
- ✔️ Camping equipment: toilet tent, kitchen tent, dining tent
- ✔️ Yaks and local Tibetan staff for baggage support (up to 20kg per person)
- ✔️ 5–6 participants: 6 yaks, 2 yak men
- ✔️ 7–8 participants: 8 yaks, 2 yak men
- ✔️ 9–10 participants: 10 yaks, 3 yak men
- ✔️ 11–12 participants: 12 yaks, 3 yak men
- ✔️ 13–16 participants: 14 yaks, 4 yak men
Note: Yaks are used to carry camping equipment, food, and staff belongings. Each guest may bring up to 20kg. Additional yak rental is available at an extra cost.
What’s Not Included
- ❌ International and domestic flights
- ❌ China visa fees
- ❌ Personal trekking gear (e.g. sleeping bag, mattress)
- ❌ Meals not specified in the itinerary
- ❌ Personal expenses (snacks, laundry, drinks, tips)
- ❌ Travel insurance (mandatory)
Itinerary
Click each day to view detailed program
Day 1: Arrival in Chengdu
Meet your guide at Chengdu Airport or train station and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing visit to a traditional Chinese teahouse in People’s Park.
Overnight: Minshan Lhasa Grand Hotel
Meals: None
Day 2: Chengdu – Kangding – Xinduqiao (Altitude: 3,300m)
A long but scenic drive (8–9 hours) via Kangding, gateway to Tibet. After a brief stop and lunch in Kangding, cross Dzeto Pass (4,323m) and descend to the picturesque Tibetan town of Xinduqiao.
Overnight: Jin Qiu Mu Ma Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Xinduqiao – Lhagang – Garze (Altitude: 3,400m)
After enjoying the sunrise, drive westward to visit Lhagang Monastery (Nyingma tradition), then continue across valleys and mountains to Garze County, stopping at scenic spots along the way.
Overnight: Tang Gu La Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Garze – Pelyul (Altitude: 3,000m–3,600m)
Cross the Kawalingring Range (4,320m) and descend into the valley of Pelyul. Enjoy views of glacial lakes, grasslands, and wildflowers like gentians and edelweiss.
Overnight: Cha Qing Song Duo Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Pelyul – Dzongsar Valley (Trek Prep)
Drive to Dzongsar Valley and visit Dzongsar Monastery, a historic Sakyapa center of non-sectarian Buddhist learning. Meet the local crew, prepare trekking gear, and organize yaks and staff.
Overnight: Local guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Trek Day 1 – Dzongsar to Valley Junction (6.5 hrs)
Begin the trek along the Mesho-chu River, crossing a wooden bridge, and ascending the first pass. Descend into a lush valley and continue to the camp at the valley junction.
Overnight: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Trek Day 2 – Valley Junction to Nenang Monastery (6–7 hrs)
Ascend to Redakla Pass and traverse through highland pastures and three small passes before descending to the isolated Nenang Monastery.
Overnight: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Trek Day 3 – Nenang Gonpa to Meadow Camp (5 hrs)
Enjoy an easier day with a mostly flat trail crossing several rivers. Wildlife sightings may include deer. Camp near a stream below the highest pass of the trek (Dzen).
Overnight: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Trek Day 4 – Over Den-La Pass, Drive to Garze
Ascend from 4,100m to Den-La Pass at 5,000m. Enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Tro La, Rongme Peza, and Gongri Neto. Descend via a pristine alpine lake to the valley, where a vehicle awaits. Drive to Garze.
Overnight: Tang Gu La Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Garze – Kangding
Visit Garze Monastery for a final spiritual highlight. Continue driving east to Kangding, the historic “Gateway to Tibet,” known for its bustling street markets and riverside charm.
Overnight: Liu Liu City Gesanghua Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 11: Kangding – Chengdu
En route to Chengdu, stop to visit the famous Luding Iron Bridge. Continue along the expressway back to the city.
Overnight: Minshan Lhasa Grand Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 12: Departure from Chengdu
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Meals: Breakfast
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need previous trekking experience for this trip?
No prior experience is required, but participants should be in good physical health and able to hike for 6–7 hours per day on varied terrain and at altitude.
What’s the altitude range and how do you handle altitude sickness?
The trek ranges from 3,000m to 5,000m. We acclimatize gradually and our guides are trained in altitude sickness prevention and response. Oxygen and basic medication are carried during the trek.
Can I rent a sleeping bag and mattress locally?
Yes, we can assist with gear rental in Chengdu or recommend reliable providers. However, we recommend bringing your own sleeping bag for hygiene and comfort.
How are meals managed during the trek?
Our support team includes a cook who prepares nutritious Tibetan and Chinese meals using local ingredients. Vegetarian options are available upon request.
Is the trip suitable for solo travelers?
Yes! Solo travelers are welcome and will be matched with other group members. A single supplement applies if private accommodation is preferred.
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