Overview
Imagine waking to the soft echo of prayer chants drifting over snow-capped peaks, sharing butter tea with monks in ancient monasteries, and capturing the beauty of untouched grasslands where yaks roam freely.
Welcome to the Kham Amdo Connection — a 9-day overland journey through the captivating eastern Tibetan cultural regions of Kham and Amdo, stretching across parts of northwestern Sichuan, Qinghai, and southern Gansu.
This immersive route takes you beyond the typical tourist trail. You’ll travel through a land shaped by dramatic mountain ridges, deep gorges, and sweeping high-altitude grasslands. Along the way, explore sacred yet lesser-known monasteries, visit vibrant cultural towns, and witness traditions that have remained unchanged for centuries.
The Kham Amdo Connection isn’t just a trip — it’s a rare opportunity to connect deeply with Tibetan culture and landscapes few travelers ever get to experience.
Tour Facts
- Starting Point: Chengdu
- Ending Point: Xining
- Activities: Overland sightseeing, Tibetan culture, monastery visits, nature photography
- Group Size: Minimum 3 people, Maximum 12 people
- Single Supplement: $328 (for guests requesting a single room)
What’s Included
- ✔ Licensed English-speaking Tibetan guide
- ✔ Accommodation (based on double occupancy)
- ✔ Private transportation throughout the trip
- ✔ Airport/train station transfers on arrival and departure
- ✔ All entrance fees for listed sites
- ✔ Meals as indicated in the itinerary
What’s Not Included
- ✘ Flights to Chengdu
- ✘ China visa fees
- ✘ Medical or travel insurance
- ✘ Personal expenses
- ✘ Meals not listed in the itinerary
- ✘ Single supplement fee (if applicable)
Itinerary
Click each day to view detailed program
Day 1: Arrive in Chengdu
Arrive in Chengdu and meet your guide at the airport. Visit People’s Park to experience local life and enjoy a cup of tea at a traditional tea house.
Overnight: Minshan Lhasa Grand Hotel
Meals: Breakfast – Not included | Lunch – Not included | Dinner – Not included
Day 2: Chengdu – Xinduqiao (via Kangding)
Today we begin our journey west. After a long but scenic drive (8–9 hours), we’ll stop in Kangding, the gateway to Tibetan culture. Explore this small mountain town before crossing the Dzeto Pass (4,323m) and descending into Xinduqiao, known for its stunning photography spots.
Overnight: Jin Qiu Mu Ma Hotel
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch – Not included | Dinner – Not included
Day 3: Xinduqiao – Barkham (via Bamei & Danba)
Today we’ll visit Lhagang Monastery and the Tagong Grasslands, followed by a visit to Huiyuan Temple in Bamei. Continue to Danba, famous for its Tibetan fortress towers and traditional villages, before heading to Barkham for the night.
Overnight: Jiarong Grand Hotel
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch – Not included | Dinner – Not included
Day 4: Barkham – Langmusi
En route to Langmusi, we visit Choktse Village, known for its historic Tibetan stone architecture. The drive (approx. 7 hours) crosses wide grasslands dotted with yaks and passes through Hongyuan, where we visit Moon Bay and the scenic Yellow River Bend.
Overnight: Langmusi Hotel
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch – Not included | Dinner – Not included
Day 5: Explore Langmusi
Hike to the Sky Burial Site above town (approx. 3.5 km). Visit Kirti Monastery (Gerda Monastery), founded in 1413, and Sertri Monastery, a branch of Lhasa’s Drepung Monastery, which includes the Protector Temple (Gonkhang) and the residence of Alak Chetsang.
Overnight: Langmusi Hotel
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch – Not included | Dinner – Not included
Day 6: Langmusi – Xiahe (via Hezuo)
Drive to Hezuo to visit the Milarepa Nine-Story Tower, then continue to Xiahe. Upon arrival, explore Labrang Monastery, one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, set in an auspicious valley framed by mountains and rivers.
Overnight: Civil Aviation Hotel
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch – Not included | Dinner – Not included
Day 7: Xiahe – Tongren
Travel from Xiahe to Tongren, where we’ll visit Wutun Monastery and Longwu Monastery, both known for their exquisite Tibetan Buddhist art and thangka paintings.
Overnight: Shengyu Tianlun Hotel
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch – Not included | Dinner – Not included
Day 8: Tongren – Xining (via Kumbum Monastery)
Head to Kumbum Monastery (Ta’er Si), a major center of Tibetan Buddhism and birthplace of Tsongkhapa, founder of the Gelug tradition. After the visit, continue to Xining, capital of Qinghai.
Overnight: Enraton Hotel
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch – Not included | Dinner – Not included
Day 9: Xining Departure
Your journey ends today. You will be transferred to the airport or train station for your departure.
Overnight: Not included
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch – Not included | Dinner – Not included
Important Note
- This itinerary covers high-altitude regions; guests are advised to consult your doctor regarding altitude sickness prevention prior to departure.
- The route includes long driving days; comfort breaks and scenic stops are provided, but road conditions may vary.
- Some remote areas may have basic accommodation and limited meal options—travelers should come prepared with flexibility and an open mind.
- Weather in Tibetan areas can change rapidly—please pack layers, rain gear, and sun protection.
- Respect local customs and monastic regulations when visiting religious sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need prior experience traveling in high altitudes?
No prior experience is required, but guests should be in good health and discuss altitude-related concerns with their doctor. The itinerary gradually acclimates travelers to higher elevations.
What kind of vehicle is used for transportation?
Private, air-conditioned vehicles suitable for the terrain and group size are used throughout the journey.
Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers are welcome. If you prefer a single room, the single supplement fee applies. Otherwise, we will pair you with another traveler of the same gender if possible.
Are vegetarian or special dietary needs accommodated?
Basic dietary needs like vegetarian meals can be accommodated in most places, but options may be limited in remote areas. Please Inform Us in advance.
What is the best time to take this tour?
Late spring to early autumn (May–October) is ideal for clear skies, accessible roads, and optimal scenery across the Tibetan plateau.
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