Grand Overland Odyssey: 15 Days Sichuan Tibet Group Tour with Yading & Shigatse

Featured Experience: Erlang Mountain Tunnel, Mugecuo Scenic Area

After breakfast, we head out via the Chengya Expressway (G5), passing through Yaan, the "City of Rain." As we traverse the Erliang Mountain Tunnel, watch the misty Sichuan Basin transform instantly into the breathtaking landscapes of the Kham Plateau.

Arrive in the Romantic City of Kangding, famed for the "Kangding Love Song" and Paoma Mountain.

In this afternoon, explore the Mugecuo Scenic Area (26 km north of Kangding). Spanning 500 sq km, this sanctuary features Seven-color Sea, Azalea Valley, and the pristine Mugecuo Lake. You can take a sightseeing bus to immerse yourself in a world of high-altitude lakes, ancient forests, hot springs, and snow-capped peaks.

After the tour, we conclude the day with an overnight stay in Kangding.

Important Travel Tips (Health & Comfort)

• Pace Yourself: Today’s itinerary is designed with a relaxed pace to help your body gradually adjust to the increasing altitude.
• Hygiene & Altitude Safety: We strongly recommend avoiding showers for the first 3 days on the plateau. Catching a cold can significantly increase the risk of Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) and impact your entire journey. If possible, wait until you feel fully acclimated before bathing.
• Infrastructure & Preparation: Please be aware that resource supply in Tibetan regions can be unstable. Occasional water or power outages may occur.

Featured Experience: Zheduo Mountain Observation Deck, Pastoral scenery of Xinduqiao

After breakfast, let’s say goodbye to Kangding and head toward G318 route. And, you will pass through Zheduo Mountain Pass, which sits at an altitude of 4,298 meters. The name Zheduo Mountain derives from its steep terrain and the unique winding road that features "nine bends and eighteen turns." Known as the "first pass of Kham", crossing Zheduo Mountain marks the official entry into the Kham Tibetan region. Furthermore, the Zheduo Mountain Pass serves as the initial pass on the Sichuan-Tibet Highway to reach an altitude exceeding 4,000 meters, signifying the transition from the Sichuan Basin and the Dadu River Valley to the western plateau of Sichuan.

On clear days, you can catch a glimpse of the magnificent Gongga Mountain, also referred to as the "King of Shu Mountains", towering at an elevation of 7,508 meters, from this vantage point.

Continuing your journey, you will drive to Xinduqiao, situated in the western part of Kangding City, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, at an altitude of approximately 3,460 meters. Although not officially designated as a scenic area, Xinduqiao is often called the "Photographer's Corridor". It is renowned for its enchanting lighting, vast grasslands, numerous streams, undulating mountain ranges, scattered Tibetan villages, and tranquil scenes of grazing cattle and sheep.

After enjoying the captivating views in Xinduqiao, you will proceed to Yajiang County for your accommodation.

Important Notes:

If the G318 via Zheduo Mountain is inaccessible due to traffic or weather, our route will be adjusted to the S434 Airport Road via Honghaizi.

Featured Experience: Litang (Letong Ancient Town), Haizi Mountain, Tuer Mountain, Daocheng White Pagoda.

After breakfast, we depart from Yajiang and tackle the thrilling "18 Bends of the Sky Road." After passing through the Jianziwan Tunnel and crossing the Kazila Pass (4,718m), we arrive at Litang, the legendary hometown of Ding Zhen.

Litang has long been a place of spiritual longing. The 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso, once wrote: "White crane, lend me your wings. I will not fly far; only to Litang and back." Here, we will explore the Letong Ancient Town (Thousand-Household Tibetan Village). As the world’s largest cluster of traditional Tibetan dwellings with over 4,000 houses, it is the ultimate gateway to Khampa culture.

Continuing our odyssey, we cross the Tuer (Rabbit) Mountain (4,696m) and the Haizi Mountain Nature Reserve (4,500m)—the largest ancient glacial remains on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

After winding through the charming Chitu River Valley and its hidden Tibetan villages, we finally arrive at the "Last Shangri-La"—Shangri-La Town (Riwa), our destination for the night.

Special Note:

Altitude Alert: Today involves crossing four mountain passes over 4,000m. To ensure your comfort and prevent AMS (Altitude Sickness), we provide complimentary portable oxygen canisters. Please use them as needed if you feel any discomfort.

Featured Experience: Chonggu Temple & Meadow, Luorong Cattle Farm, Milk Lake, Five-Color Lake.

After breakfast, we head to the soul-stirring Yading Nature Reserve. Upon arrival at the visitor center, 20-minute shuttle bus ride takes us to Zhaguanbeng, followed by an 800m walk to the Chonggu Service Area.

From here, you can choose your adventure based on your physical condition:

• The Long Route (Challenging): Trek to Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake to witness the breathtaking beauty of high-altitude glacial lakes.
• The Short Route (Relaxed): Hike to Pearl Lake (Zhuoma La-tso) to capture the stunning reflection of Mt. Xiannairi. Along the way, immerse yourself in a world of wild animals, alpine flora, snow peaks, and ancient glaciers—a true harmony between man and nature. After the tour, we exit the park and drive to Daocheng for our overnight stay.

Special Notes & Safety Disclaimers:

1. Wildlife Safety: Numerous small wild animals inhabit the trail to Pearl Lake. Do not feed or provoke them, as they may bite or scratch. Please note that medical facilities/vaccines are not available inside the reserve.
2. Liability Waiver: Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake are optional extensions and are not part of the standard agency-managed itinerary. Travelers visiting these areas do so at their own risk and are responsible for their own safety and any associated costs.
3. Trekking to Milk Lake/Five-Color Lake:

• On Foot: A 10km round trip from Luorong Cattle Farm (approx. 5-6 hours).
• By Horse: A 3.5km uphill ride (approx. 3 hours, CNY 300/person out-of-pocket). Horses must be led by a professional groom at all times.
• Final Ascent: The final 1.8km stretch to Milk Lake (4,600m) and Five-Color Lake (4,700m) is rugged and can only be completed on foot. High fitness levels are required. Expect low temperatures and strong winds; please dress warmly.
• Capacity Restrictions: Yading enforces a daily limit of 16,850 visitors (with only 3,900 allowed in the Milk Lake area). We will pre-book your tickets, but if the Milk Lake area is closed due to peak season limits, we will adjust the itinerary accordingly.

Featured Experience: Sangdui Red Grassland (Seasonal), Litang Revisited, Maoya Grassland, G318 Scenic Drive

After breakfast, we depart from Daocheng and pass through the charming Sangdui Town. During the golden autumn season, we will stop at the vibrant Sangdui Red Grassland for a quick photo session.

Continuing our journey, we arrive at Litang once more. A vital safety reminder: even if you feel acclimated to the altitude, please avoid strenuous activities such as jumping or running here.

As we cruise along the legendary G318 Highway, keep an eye out for adorable marmots popping up along the roadside. We will traverse the vast Maoya Grassland, an emerald sea stretching to the horizon. Scattered Tibetan tents with curling chimney smoke and herds of yaks grazing peacefully create a scene of profound tranquility. Immerse yourself in the boundless vitality of the plateau before we descend to Batang for our overnight stay.

Special Note:

Seasonal Beauty: Sangdui Red Grassland is a seasonal phenomenon, typically visible from late September to late October. The peak vibrant red phase usually lasts only about two weeks.

Featured Experience: Jinsha River Bridge (Tibet Border), Lawu Mountain, Dongda Mountain (5,008m)

After breakfast, we cross the Jinsha River Bridge into the Tibet Autonomous Region. Today’s journey takes us through the legendary Three Parallel Rivers region, where the Jinsha, Lancang, and Nujiang Rivers carve deep, dramatic gorges through the Tanggula Mountains. This segment is renowned as one of the most rugged and awe-inspiring stretches of the Sichuan-Tibet Highway.

Continuing west, we conquer Lawu Mountain (4,358m) and the formidable Dongda Mountain, which towers at over 5,008m. From these cloud-piercing summits, the highway and the Lancang River look like two shimmering ribbons weaving through endless valleys. You will witness the stark beauty of the Dry-Hot Valley—a dramatic landscape of reddish-brown earth, barren cliffs, and a turbulent river flowing like liquid flame. It is truly one of the most magnificent natural wonders on the G318. We conclude our day in Zuogong.

Important Reminders:

1. Strict Traffic Controls: Upon entering Tibet, strict manual speed limits are enforced. Please cooperate with your driver to ensure we maintain the required transit schedule.
2. Preparation for a Long Day: Today’s journey is physically demanding due to high altitudes and winding roads. Please be mentally prepared and stock up on snacks and drinking water in advance.

Featured Experience: Bangda Grassland, Yela Mountain, Nujiang 72 Bends (99 Turns)

After breakfast, we depart Zuogong and head west across the vast Bangda Grassland, the most important natural pasture in eastern Tibet. This high-altitude wetland is a sanctuary of lush grass, seasonal wildflowers, and wandering herds of yaks and sheep. Gentle rivers meander through the plains, creating a serene landscape of shimmering lakes and fertile marshes.

Leaving the tranquility behind, we tackle Yela Mountain (4,839m), the most formidable natural barrier of the Hengduan Mountains. After crossing the pass, prepare for the thrill of the Nujiang 72 Bends (also known as the "99 Turns"). As we descend the winding "Sky Road," you will see the picturesque Tongni and Gama Villages nestled at the foot of the mountains, surrounded by highland terraces and backed by endless snow-capped peaks.

As we continue west past Basu, the scenery shifts once more into a tapestry of snowy summits, virgin forests, and idyllic Tibetan hamlets. We will arrive in the lakeside town of Ranwu for our overnight stay.

Featured Experience: Ranwu Lake, Midui Glacier

After breakfast, we begin our day at the enchanting Ranwu Lake, a renowned high-altitude glacial lake and a crown jewel of the G318 Highway. If luck is on our side, you can capture the stunning, crystal-clear reflections of the surrounding snow peaks in the tranquil mid-section of the lake.

Next, we venture to Midui Glacier, located in Yupu Township. As a world-class monsoonal maritime glacier, it is formed by two spectacular ice falls converging into a landscape of eternal snow and ice. The scenery here is truly surreal: vibrant alpine flowers bloom against the backdrop of shimmering glaciers, while lush forests sway like "green ribbons" below the icy peaks. The mystical pastoral charm of Midui Village will make you forget you are on the Tibetan Plateau. This breathtaking tapestry of snow mountains, glaciers, forests, and lakes creates a soul-stirring landscape.

After the tour, we drive to the forest-clad Bomi County for overnight stay.

Featured Experience: Guxiang Lake, Lulang Forest, Mt. Namcha Barwa

After breakfast, we depart Bomi, traveling through landscapes that resemble traditional Chinese ink paintings. Our first stop is the azure Guxiang Lake, where tranquil waters flow against a backdrop of snow peaks and soft sandy shores. We invite you to take a gentle lakeside hike—measuring the beauty of this plateau with your footsteps while immersing yourself in the breeze and birdsong.

Continuing our journey, we cross the Tongmai Bridge. Once known as the most dangerous "natural barrier" on the G318, it has now been transformed into a safe, modern passage. We then arrive at Lulang, a fairytale town built along the water. With its alpine meadows, dense forests, grazing cattle, and white pagodas, it perfectly earns its reputation as "The Little Switzerland of Tibet." Here, the rising chimney smoke from Tibetan houses adds a touch of warmth to the ethereal scenery. Don’t miss the chance to try the famous local delicacy: Lulang Stone Pot Chicken.

Later, we ascend the mist-shrouded Mt. Segrila (Pass Altitude: 4,702m). This is one of the premier viewpoints for Mt. Namcha Barwa, often voted the most beautiful peak in China. Standing here, gazing at the majestic summit above the clouds, is a truly soul-stirring experience.

Finally, we descend along the scenic Niyang River Valley to arrive in Nyingchi, the "Jiangnan of Tibet," for our overnight stay.

Featured Experience: Basumtso Lake, Niyang River, Lhasa-Nyingchi High-standard Highway

After breakfast, we depart from Nyingchi, once again tracing the scenic Niyang River. We will travel along the Lhasa-Nyingchi Highway, renowned as the "most beautiful high-standard highway in Tibet," which offers a smooth and breathtaking drive through the valleys.

Leaving the highway at Bahe Town, we drive 50 km to reach the mesmerizing Basumtso Lake (also known as Tso-go Lake). This crescent-shaped alpine lake is nestled deep within high valleys, surrounded by emerald forests and year-round snow-capped peaks. Whether it’s the gentleness of spring, the passion of summer, the elegance of autumn, or the purity of winter, Basum-tso remains a timeless masterpiece of nature that captivates every traveler.

We will explore the Lake Heart Island and visit the Tsozong Gongba Monastery. Built in the late Tang Dynasty (over 1,500 years ago), this is a significant site for the Nyingma (Red Sect) of Tibetan Buddhism.

After our visit, we continue our journey to the "Holy City" of Lhasa for our overnight stay.

Featured Experience: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street

Today is dedicated to exploring the spiritual and historical wonders of Lhasa. We begin at the magnificent Potala Palace, perched atop Marpo Ri (Red Hill). As the world's highest ancient palace complex, it seamlessly integrates a fortress, palace, and monastery. This 13-story architectural marvel stretches over 400 meters and is divided into the White Palace (secular use) and the Red Palace (religious study and golden stupas). The tour takes approximately 2 hours.

Afterward, we stroll along Yutuo Road to soak in the local street life as we head toward the Jokhang Temple. Located in the heart of the old city and built in 647 AD, it is the most brilliant surviving structure from the Tubo Period. With its 5 golden roofs and 108 chapels, it holds the supreme spiritual status in Tibet—as the local saying goes, "The Jokhang Temple came first, then the city of Lhasa."

We will also explore the famous Barkhor Street, the vibrant pilgrimage circuit surrounding the Jokhang. Here, you can witness the three sacred "Kora" (pilgrimage) routes:

• Nangkhor: The innermost circuit within the temple.
• Barkhor: The middle circuit around the temple walls.
• Lingkhor: The outer circuit encompassing the Potala Palace and old city.

In the evening, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Barkhor Street. Don't miss the local flavors at iconic spots like Makye Ame, A-Diao Yogurt, or the traditional Tsangkhung Nunnery Tea House.

Featured Experience: Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier, Pelkor Chode Monastery

Departing Lhasa, we drive along the Lhasa-Shigatse Expressway before joining the scenic S307 Provincial Road, widely known as the "Sightseeing Highway." We will ascend the Gampala Pass (4,990m) to reach Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet's three great sacred lakes. Its waters are so pure and turquoise they are often compared to smooth mutton-fat jade. From the summit, you’ll enjoy the best panoramic view, where the deep blue lake meets distant snow peaks and traditional Tibetan hamlets.

Descending to the lakeshore, we get a closer look at the crystal waters. On clear days, the majestic Mt. Noijin Kangsang—a favorite training ground for mountaineers—is visible on the horizon. Next, we pass the Karola Glacier, famous as a filming location for the movie Red River Valley. This massive glacier sits remarkably close to the highway, offering a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Continuing to the "Heroic Town" of Gyantse, a historic gateway with over 600 years of heritage, we will view the Zongshan Anti-British Fort from afar. We then visit the Pelkor Chode Monastery, unique for housing three different sects of Tibetan Buddhism under one roof and famed for its "Ten-Thousand-Buddha Pagoda" (Kumbum), home to exquisite murals and sculptures. Finally, we drive to Tibet's second-largest city, Shigatse, for our overnight stay.

Special Note:

Weather Alert: We will cross the Gampala Pass at nearly 5,000m today. The winds at the summit are very strong; please have your heavy jacket ready to prevent catching a cold, which can lead to altitude sickness.

Featured Experience: Tashilhunpo Monastery

After breakfast, we visit the magnificent Tashilhunpo Monastery, the resting place of the soul of the Panchen Lamas. As one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug (Yellow Hat) Sect, it served for centuries as the political and religious center of Tsang (West Tibet).

Tashilhunpo is prestigious as one of the Four Great Monasteries of Tibet, alongside Lhasa’s "Big Three": Ganden, Sera, and Drepung. The highlight of our visit is the Maitreya Buddha Hall, which enshrines a stunning 28-meter-tall statue of the Future Buddha (Jamba)—the largest gilded bronze seated Buddha in the world. After exploring its labyrinth of golden-roofed chapels and white-walled monk residences, we will drive back to Lhasa for our final night in the Holy City.

After breakfast, pack your belongings and prepare for your journey home. If you have an afternoon or evening flight/train, feel free to enjoy a relaxed morning: sleep in, or take one last stroll through the vibrant streets of Lhasa to capture final photos and souvenirs.

Please collect your luggage from the hotel at the designated time. We will provide a comfortable transfer to Lhasa Gonggar International Airport (or the railway station). To ensure a smooth departure, we typically head to the airport 2.5 to 3 hours before your flight. Upon arrival, our guide will assist you with the check-in process.

Our 15-day Sichuan Tibet Overland Group Tour concludes here. We wish you a wonderful life ahead.

Special Note:

Please provide your departure flight or train number to your travel consultant at least 2 days in advance so we can coordinate your seamless transfer.