For worldwide travel enthusiasts, Tibet is an attractive holy land for exploring. Its stunning natural wonders and vibrant Buddhist culture echo irresistible magnetism. Among dozens of ways of experiencing true Tibet trekking, the following routes are universally taken as the best choices for ardent travelers. Ready to hit the road? Here are the top 10 classic trekking routes in Tibet.

TOP 1: The Most Sacred Mount Kailash Kora (3 days)

Speaking of trekking or Kora (circling around religious mountains or sites) in Tibet, Mount Kailash Kora definitely pops uppermost in one’s mind. Believed to be the “center of the world”, Mt. Kailash is also worshipped in Hinduism, Jainism, and Bonismo. Tibetan Buddhists are deeply convinced that circling Mt. Kailash can remove one’s evil and circling Mt. Kailash 108 times even makes you a Buddha.

Mt. Kailash Kora poses a daunting challenge to one’s physique and stamina. The trekking route has an average altitude of 4700m, in Dolma La Pass even as high as 5630m. In places like here, the climate is constantly changing and so unpredictable. Therefore, it is quite risky for those who just come to Tibet to trek in the Ngari region.

The climate in locations like this is always shifting and unpredictable. As a result, trekking in the Ngari region is extremely dangerous for those who have just arrived in Tibet. The months between May and October have been discovered to be the best months to enjoy the scenery of Mount Kailash. The journey usually takes about 2-3 days.

15 Days Kailash and Manasarova Tour

Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - E.B.C - Saga - Kailash Trek - Darchen - Lake Manasarovar - Saga - Gyirong - Tingri - Lhasa
Price from USD2059 p.p

TOP 2: Gama Valley Trekking through one of the Most Beautiful Valleys in the World (8 Days)

Situated in Tingri County, Shigatse, Gama Valley is a lush valley formed by the erosion of freezing snowmelt rivers and countless towering mountains nearby. As early as the 20th century, Gama Valley was credited as “the most beautiful valley on the planet and one of the classic trekking routes in the world.”

Enjoying the natural beauty of Gama Valley during your trek.

The entire trekking route is within Mt. Everest Nature Reserve. If you enjoy nature, this amazing path will take you through unique vegetation, diversified wildlife, and enchanting wetlands, lakes, and waterfalls.

With heights ranging from 4,000 meters to 5,300 meters, the Gama Valley trek is one of the world’s highest hikes. The dramatic altitude change and changeable climate along Gama Valley are not a pushover for most trekkers. The best time for this trek is April to June and September to October.

15 Days Gama Valley Trekking in the Eastern Slope of Mt. Everest

Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Gama Valley Trek - Shigatse - Lhasa
Price from USD2890 p.p

TOP 3: The Popular Tingri to Everest Base Camp Trek for the Best of Everest in Tibet (4 Days)

The trek from Tingri to Everest Base Camp (EBC) is widely recognized as an exceptional adventure, often described as a world-class trek. Nestled within a high-elevation region, this trail presents intrepid explorers with altitudes ranging from 4400m to 5300m, creating an exhilarating mix of breathtaking natural landscapes, remarkable wildlife encounters, and demanding physical challenges.

It is highly recommended to do the Tingri to EBC trek from May to October, as the weather conditions during this period are comparatively milder. With reduced cloud cover, you are treated to unobstructed panoramic views of the majestic mountain ranges that surround you. The awe-inspiring sight of the mighty Everest and its neighboring peaks becomes a constant companion throughout the journey.

As you traverse the trail from Tingri to Everest Base Camp, you immerse yourself in a captivating environment of rugged beauty. Every step taken brings you closer to the world’s highest peak, and the sense of accomplishment that accompanies reaching Everest Base Camp is truly indescribable.

10 Days Best Tingri to Everest Trekking Small Group Tour

Tour Route: Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Shigatse - Tingri - Trekking to EBC - Lhasa
Price from USD1780 p.p

TOP 4: The Scenic Ganden to Samye Trek to Explore Two of Tibet's Greatest Monasteries (4 Days)

The Ganden to Samye trek is truly a religious pilgrimage. It is an excellent example of combining scenery and spirituality. The adventure has a diversified panorama of valleys, alpine forests, and numerous small lakes to offer. You will get to learn about the history of Tibetan Buddhism, visit Guru Rinpoche's meditation retreat, and enjoy the stunning pastoral view of Gyama Valley.

Enjoying the leisure trek from Ganden to Samye

With a distance of 80 kilometers, the Ganden to Samye trek takes 4-5 days. You will start the trek from Ganden Monastery at 4180m above sea level, and head to Tibet's earliest Buddhist monastery, Samye Monastery, at 3540m via Shogu-La Pass at 5250m. Summer is a great time to enjoy trekking from Ganden to Samye.

9 Days Ganden to Samye Trek

Tour Route: Lhasa - Ganden Monastery - Trek to Samye Monastery - Lhasa

TOP 5: The Classic Namtso Lake Trek (3 Days)

Namtso Lake, revered as Tibet's most sacred lake, attracts a large number of tourists and pilgrims each year. While reaching Namtso Lake itself is a remarkable feat, the true essence lies in embarking on the awe-inspiring trek around its picturesque shores. Prepare to be enchanted as you embark on the Namtso Lake trek that traverses the breathtaking landscapes, where every step reveals panoramic vistas and a deep connection to nature and spirituality.

The Tibet Namtso Lake trekking tour.

Circumnavigating Namtso Lake is an adventure that demands time and endurance, spanning at least a week due to the great altitude and vast distance to cover. It is a testament to the sheer magnitude and grandeur of this heavenly destination. Be prepared to be captivated by the ethereal beauty that unfolds with every twist and turn along the trek.

The optimal time to undertake the Tibet Namtso Lake Trekking adventure is from April to October, when the weather conditions are favorable, offering clear skies and allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the majestic surroundings.

TOP 6: The Yamdrok Lake Circular Trek to Explore Hidden Views of the Holy Lake (8 Days)

This hiking excursion takes you to the well-known outer circle of Yamdrok Lake as well as the off-the-beaten inner circle so that you can explore the hidden beauty of Yamdrok Lake.

During the Yamdrok Lake trekking tour, you will have the opportunity to walk along the beach of the glistening Yamdrok Lake, submerge yourself in the myriad shades of turquoise water, stop at the modest but genuine temples that are dotted along the trail, and discover the islands that are scattered across the lake.

Yamdrok Lake is at its most beautiful and least rainy between the months of late April and late June, and early September and early November.

5 Days Lhasa and Yamdrok Lake Small Group Tour

Tour Route: Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Lhasa
Price from USD689 p.p

TOP 7: The Shalu to Nartang Trek with Rich Tibetan Buddhist Culture (2 Days)

The journey from Shalu to Nartang is widely considered to be among the most famous hikes throughout all of Tibet. This is a trip that shouldn't last more than four days at the most. The total distance covered by the journey is around 45 kilometers. The illustrious Shalu Monastery is where the journey starts, and the Nartang Monastery is where it finishes.

Trekking from Shalu to Nartnag

A great variety of fascinating views and sounds can be experienced along this hiking path which is just moderately long. Hiking through trails of unspoiled canyons and highways is one of the most magnificent aspects of the vacation. Other highlights include seeing authentic Tibetan culture and friendliness in the local towns.

Springtime (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the periods in which a trip to this place will likely provide the greatest amount of pleasure.

TOP 8: The Tidrum Hot Spring to Drigung Til Monastery Trek, Balancing Relaxation and Spiritual Exploration (1 Day)

This is a rather relaxing trekking in Tibet. You can enjoy the refreshing Dezhong hot spring, one of the most famous hot springs in Tibet, and Drigung Thil Monastery, a great place for the practice of sky burial.

Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Tibet, Tidrum Hot Spring is a renowned destination and one of the most famous hot springs in the region. With its open-air pools, it provides a refreshing and invigorating experience. As you immerse yourself in the warm waters, let the natural healing properties revitalize your senses. The hot springs feature separate bathing areas for men and women, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing experience.

Dezhong Hot Spring enjoys great popularity amid locals.

Continuing on the trek, you'll be captivated by the scenic trails that meander through picturesque surroundings. Inhale the crisp mountain air and savor the breathtaking beauty of the terrain. The journey culminates at Drigung Til Monastery, an oasis of tranquility and spiritual significance. Explore the ancient halls adorned with vibrant Buddhist murals and sacred relics, allowing the serene ambiance to envelop your being. Gain a deeper understanding of Tibetan Buddhism as you engage with the monastery's spiritual teachings and rituals.

It is worth noting that Drigung Til Monastery is renowned as one of the world's largest sites for sky burial ceremonies, a sacred Tibetan tradition. As visitors, you can not get to see the burial ceremony.

Spectacular architecture and superb view of Drigung Thil Monastery.

The Tidrum Hot Spring to Drigung Til Monastery trek combines the pleasures of natural rejuvenation with cultural exploration. Embrace the serenity of the hot springs, connect with the spiritual essence of the monastery, and create cherished memories on this remarkable journey through the heart of Tibet.

TOP 9: The Leisure Pabongka to Pubjoi Monastery Trek, Revealing the Outskirts of Lhasa (1 Day)

This journey takes you through a number of sites on the outskirts of Lhasa that are worth taking the time to explore. This leisurely trek near Lhasa City caters to all levels of fitness, making it ideal for families with kids and senior groups.

The trekking tour begins at the picturesque Pabonka Monastery, a sanctuary of tranquility located just a short distance from the bustling city center. Discover the sacred meditation cave where Songtsen Gampo, a revered figure in Tibetan history, sought solace.

Having a great view of the mountain valley during the trek from Pabonka to Pubjoi Monastery.

The trail unfolds gradually, leading you uphill for approximately 30 minutes to the enchanting Tashi Chöling Hermitage. Catch your breath and absorb the serene surroundings before continuing your ascent for another 40 minutes to reach the Tagden Ritro hermitage, a perfect spot to savor a delightful lunch.

Prepare to be mesmerized as you descend towards the Sera Ütse hermitage, offering breathtaking vistas of the expansive Lhasa Valley. The journey continues for an hour, passing by the revered Raka Drak hermitage, where magnificent views of the surrounding regions will leave you spellbound.

While this trek is relatively simple, it is essential to acclimate to the altitude beforehand. The best time to embark on this adventure is between July and August when the weather is favorable and the landscapes are adorned with vibrant colors.

5 Days Lhasa Outskirts Trekking Tour

Tour Route: Lhasa

TOP 10: The off-the-beaten Tsurphu to Yangpachen Trek (4 Days)

The trek from Tsurphu Monastery to Yanpachen Valley, hailed as one of the top 20 trails in China, beckons adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike to explore the untouched beauty of Tibet.

Begin at Tsurphu Monastery, a sacred site resonating with history and spirituality, where the teachings of the Kagyu sect come alive. Set foot on the captivating path that winds through awe-inspiring high valleys, revealing panoramic vistas that will leave you in awe. Picture-perfect grasslands, adorned with vibrant wildflowers and lush green meadows, create a stunning backdrop.

Trekking on the way to Yangpachen

Immerse yourself in the nomadic way of life thriving in harmony with nature in Damxung, and let the serenity of Yanpachen Valley envelop your senses. Indulge in the rejuvenating warmth of the plateau's hot springs as the day draws to a close.

The months of April through October are ideal for making this trip, as this is when grasses and wildflowers in grassland are at their most beautiful and abundant. This hike is a beautiful example of how culture and the outdoors can be harmoniously combined, and it provides visitors with the opportunity to get up close and personal with Tibetan nomads.

Conclusion

The top 10 classic trekking routes in Tibet offer a transformative experience of natural beauty and spiritual enlightenment.

From the holy Mount Kailash to the serene lakes and ancient monasteries, these treks provide a glimpse into the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Tibet.

We are dedicated to providing the best Tibet trekking tours. Contact us to curate your ideal trekking tour, tailored to your preferences and desires. Let us guide you through the breathtaking landscapes and immerse you in the profound spirituality of this remarkable land.