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Please stay tuned for future departure updates. Contact us directly for private or customized options.
Overview
Embark on a transformative journey to Larung Gar, home to one of the world’s largest Buddhist academies—Larung Gar Five Sciences Buddhist Academy, located in the remote highlands of Kham, Eastern Tibet.
Founded in 1980 by Jigme Phuntsok Rinpoche, the academy has become one of the most significant centers for the study of Tibetan Buddhism in both the Kham and Amdo regions. Named by the 10th Panchen Lama and officially inscribed in Chinese by Mr. Zhao Puchu, the former Chairman of the Buddhist Association of China, Larung Gar has grown into a vibrant monastic city, housing thousands of monks and nuns.
This overland pilgrimage begins in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, and follows a culturally rich route through Tibetan towns, sacred monasteries, and high-altitude mountain passes. Optional departures are available during major local religious festivals or pujas—please refer to our Larung Gar Festival & Puja Departures for special dates.
- Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
- Trip Start/End: Chengdu, China
- Activity: Overland Cultural Exploration | Kham Region Tour
- Group Size: Custom / Private Departure Available
- Status: Currently Suspended
Important Notes
- Physical Requirements: Moderate. Some high-altitude travel involved.
- Weather: Cold nights, especially in Sertar and Larung Gar; pack warm layers.
Tour Facts
- Explore Larung Gar Monastery and witness its sprawling red-roofed monastic dwellings
- Visit sacred sites like Lhagang Monastery, Mt. Yarla Jartso, and Mani Pile
- Discover the unique architecture of Choktse Village and the history of Tibetan officialdom
- Travel deep into the Kham Tibetan region with a licensed English-speaking guide
What’s Included
- ✔ Licensed English-speaking guide throughout
- ✔ All private ground transportation including airport transfers
- ✔ All accommodations (double occupancy basis)
- ✔ Entry fees to all listed attractions and monasteries
- ✔ Meals as indicated in the itinerary
What’s Not Included
- ✘ China visa fees
- ✘ International and domestic airfare
- ✘ Personal expenses (snacks, laundry, etc.)
- ✘ Travel insurance and medical costs
- ✘ Single-room supplement
- ✘ Personal gear and optional tips
Itinerary
Click each day to view detailed program
Day 1: Arrival in Chengdu
Upon arrival in Chengdu, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a cultural visit to a traditional teahouse at People’s Park—an ideal introduction to local life in Sichuan.
Overnight: Minshan Lhasa Grand Hotel
Meals: –
Day 2: Chengdu → Kangding → Xinduqiao
Depart early for a scenic drive into the Tibetan highlands. Stop in Kangding (2,650m), the first Tibetan town en route. Enjoy a short walk through the valley town and interact with locals. Continue to Mt. Dzeto Pass (4,323m), crossing onto the Tibetan Plateau before descending into Xinduqiao (3,300m), famed for its stunning highland landscapes.
Overnight: Jin Qiu Mu Ma Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Xinduqiao → Tagong → Luhuo → Sertar
Travel to Tagong and visit Lhagang Monastery, steeped in legend from the Tang Dynasty. View Mt. Yarla Jartso, one of the sacred mountains in this region, and stop at the great Mani stone pile. Continue through Luhuo, a gateway town, and arrive in Sertar County by evening.
Overnight: Seda Grand Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Explore Larung Gar
Spend a full day exploring Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, located about 20 km from Sertar. Home to thousands of monks and nuns, the academy is divided into male and female quarters and resembles a vast religious city clinging to the hillsides. Alcohol is strictly prohibited within the entire valley as a mark of respect to its spiritual sanctity.
Overnight: Seda Grand Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Sertar → Barkham
Enjoy a final morning view of Larung Gar before beginning the return journey. Drive through mountain terrain to Barkham, a vibrant Tibetan town rich in cultural heritage.
Overnight: Jiarong Grand Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Barkham → Choktse Village → Chengdu
En route to Chengdu, stop to explore Choktse Village, famed for its 100-year-old stone houses and unique Tibetan fort-style architecture. Considered an architectural marvel, it offers insight into the historical governance systems of Tibet. Continue the drive back to Chengdu.
Overnight: Minshan Lhasa Grand Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: Chengdu Departure
Your pilgrimage concludes today. You will be transferred to Chengdu Airport or train station for your onward journey.
Meals: Breakfast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Larung Gar?
The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is relatively mild. For a more spiritual experience, plan your trip around major pujas or Tibetan festivals.
Do I need special permits to travel to Larung Gar?
No, foreign travelers are not required travel permits for this region.
Is this tour suitable for people new to high altitude?
This tour includes several high-altitude locations. While the pace is moderate, those with health conditions should consult a doctor and consider acclimatization days if necessary.
Can this trip be customized for private groups?
Yes, we offer tailor-made options for private groups or individuals. Contact us to design a custom itinerary that suits your schedule and interests.
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