Overview
The Tibet Silk Road Traverse is a 9-day expedition through the remote western reaches of Tibet, where history, spirituality, and raw natural beauty converge. Journey across dramatic high-altitude terrain once traveled by traders and pilgrims, visit centuries-old monasteries nestled in rugged valleys, and experience the enduring culture of Tibet far from the crowds. This is not just a tour — it’s a passage through time, across landscapes few travelers ever see.
Experience ancient Buddhism, vibrant landscapes, and over 2,000 years of trade route history — all in one seamless, guided itinerary.
Quick Facts
- Start: Lhasa
- End: Dunhuang
- Activities: Tibetan Buddhism, Silk Road culture, scenic train journeys
- Group Size: Minimum 3, Maximum 12
- Single Supplement: $337 (applies to single occupancy rooms)
ℹ️ Important Note
The Tibet Travel Permit requires at least 25 days advance confirmation before your departure date.
✨ Trip Highlights
- 🏯 Potala Palace & Jokhang Temple – Spiritual centers of Tibetan Buddhism
- 🚆 Tibet Railway & China’s Bullet Train – Iconic rides with panoramic views
- 🌊 Qinghai Lake – China’s largest saltwater lake at 3,200m elevation
- 🌈 Zhangye Danxia National Geopark – Vibrant layered cliffs and valleys
- 🏯 Jiayuguan Pass – The western terminus of the Great Wall
- 🧱 Mogao Grottoes, Dunhuang – UNESCO-listed cave murals and Buddhist art
What’s Included
- ✅ Tibet Travel Permit
- ✅ Licensed English-speaking tour guide
- ✅ All ground transportation (private vehicle + trains)
- ✅ Tibet train (Lhasa to Xining) – soft sleeper
- ✅ High-speed trains (Xining–Zhangye, Zhangye–Jiayuguan) – first class
- ✅ Accommodations (double occupancy)
- ✅ All entrance fees as per itinerary
- ✅ Airport/train station transfers
- ✅ Meals as indicated in the itinerary
What’s Not Included
- ❌ Flights to Lhasa
- ❌ China visa
- ❌ Meals not specified in the itinerary
- ❌ Personal expenses
- ❌ Medical expenses
- ❌ Single supplement (unless chosen)
Itinerary
Click each day to view detailed program
Day 1 – Arrival in Lhasa
Arrive at Lhasa airport, meet your guide and transfer to the hotel. Visit the Niangtang Buddha en route. In the afternoon, stroll through Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama.
Overnight: Tashi Nota Hotel
Meals: None
Day 2 – Lhasa Cultural Highlights
Visit Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Bazaar. Discover the spiritual heart of Tibet and its lively pilgrimage culture.
Overnight: Tashi Nota Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 – Monasteries of Lhasa
Explore Sera Monastery (famous for monk debates), Drepung Monastery (once the world’s largest), and Nechung Monastery (former seat of the State Oracle).
Overnight: Tashi Nota Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 – Lhasa to Xining by Train
Board the scenic Qinghai-Tibet Railway across the Changtang Plateau, one of the world’s highest train routes.
Overnight: Onboard train (soft sleeper)
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 – Xining and Qinghai Lake
Arrive in Xining. Drive to Qinghai Lake, China’s largest saltwater lake. Visit Kumbum (Ta’er) Monastery, an important Gelugpa center.
Overnight: Enraton International Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 – Xining to Zhangye
Take a high-speed train to Zhangye. Visit the Zhangye Danxia National Geopark, famous for its colorful rock formations.
Overnight: Tianyu International Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 – Zhangye to Jiayuguan
Travel by high-speed rail to Jiayuguan. Explore the westernmost fortress of the Great Wall.
Overnight: Jiayuguan Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 – Jiayuguan to Dunhuang
Drive through dramatic desert landscapes to Dunhuang. Visit Crescent Lake and climb the sand dunes of Mingsha Shan.
Overnight: Dunhuang Sunny Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9 – Explore Mogao Grottoes
Tour the world-renowned Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Buddhist art, sculptures, and ancient manuscripts.
Overnight: Dunhuang Sunny Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 10 – Departure from Dunhuang
Transfer to the airport for your departure.
Meals: Breakfast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum number of participants?
The tour requires a minimum of 3 participants to operate.
Is the Tibet Travel Permit included?
Yes, and it must be arranged at least 25 days in advance.
What kind of train tickets are included?
Soft sleeper for Lhasa–Xining; first-class high-speed rail for Xining–Zhangye and Zhangye–Jiayuguan.
Can I travel solo?
Yes, solo travel is possible. However, there is a single supplement fee for private room occupancy. Additional costs may apply, and we recommend contacting us for full details.
What is the best time of year to take this tour?
The best time to take the Tibet Silk Road Tour is between May and October, when the weather is more favorable for travel. The Tibetan Plateau can be quite cold during winter.
Is there any specific clothing required for the tour?
Comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, as temperatures can vary greatly. It’s essential to bring layers, a warm jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and sturdy walking shoes.
Are meals included in the tour?
Breakfasts are included as per the itinerary, but any meals not specified in the itinerary are not covered. Please check the itinerary for detailed meal information.
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