8-Day Shalu to Nartang Trek: Explore the Best Countryside Hiking Trail

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Route Highlights:

This 8-day trek from Shalu to Nartang seamlessly combines Tibet’s cultural and natural landscapes. You’ll explore the ancient history and culture of Lhasa before crossing majestic mountains and grasslands. Passing by temples and hermitages, you’ll deeply experience the beauty and tranquility of rural Tibet.

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Journey Features

The 8-day journey from Shalu to Nartang beautifully intertwines the cultural and natural beauty of Tibet. Beginning with an exploration of Lhasa’s ancient history and culture, the journey continues through majestic mountains and vast grasslands. Passing by temples and hermitages, travelers will deeply immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of rural Tibet. This trek not only offers a glimpse into Tibet’s mysterious and ancient religious heritage but also showcases breathtaking natural scenery. It’s an extraordinary outdoor adventure, bringing participants close to nature and allowing them to experience its grandeur and uniqueness. It’s an exploration into the unknown, discovering the beauty of novelty, leaving behind unforgettable memories and profound experiences.

Itinerary

Cost

Travel Guide

Travel Tips

Itinerary Details

Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa (3650m)

Day 2-3: Two full days of Lhasa Sightseeing (B)

Day 4: Lhasa/Gyantse/Shalu Monastery, Camping (D)

Day 5: Trek from Shalu (3980m) to Upper Lungsang (4060m), Trekking 5-6 hours, 12km, Camp (B, L, D)

Day 6: Trek from Upper Lungsang to Ngor Monastery/Nartang Monastery/Shigatse, Trekking 5-6 hours, 14km (B, L)

Day 7: Shigatse/Lhasa (B), visit Tashilunpo Monastery

Day 8: Drop-off at Lhasa airport (B)

Day 01 Arrive in Lhasa

Welcome to Lhasa

Upon reaching Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Train Station, you will be transferred to the city center of Lhasa. Take a moment to relax and adjust to the high altitude.

Overnight in Lhasa

lhasa airport 8 days shalu to nartang trek itinerary

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Day 02 Lhasa City Tour

Potala Palace, Jokhang Monastery, Barkhor Street

Today, we begin our adventure to explore the wonders of Lhasa, starting with the iconic Potala Palace, which was once the home of the Dalai Lama and is known as the highest palace in the world. Perched on the red hills in the center of Lhasa, this architectural masterpiece served as Tibet’s religious and political center. As we climb the 365 steps leading to the main structure, we will explore the former political hall of the Dalai Lama, various prayer halls, and the tomb stupa. Inside, you will be enchanted by stunning murals and beautiful Buddha statues that reflect the rich cultural heritage and grandeur of ancient Tibet.

Next, we will visit the sacred Jokhang Temple, which houses the revered 12-year-old statue of Shakyamuni, making it Tibet’s most sacred site and a beloved destination for pilgrims. Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere as you join fellow pilgrims in walking around Barkhor Street, which is the vibrant core of Tibetan devotion. Here, we will also take a moment to engage with the lively local culture at a traditional Tibetan teahouse, accompanied by our knowledgeable guide.

Overnight in Lhasa

Day 03 Lhasa City Tour

Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery

Today, you will have the chance to discover two unique monasteries in Lhasa: Drepung and Sera, each providing a distinct perspective on Tibetan Buddhism. At Drepung Monastery, you’ll explore Buddhist halls, educational institutions, and the monks’ kitchen, where you can witness their daily routines and participate in engaging debates focused on Buddhist teachings.

Conversely, Sera Monastery is famous for its vibrant Buddhist debates that capture the spirit of Tibetan Buddhism. In this setting, monks partake in animated discussions about Buddhist philosophy, employing expressive body language and dance-like movements to convey their understanding.

Overnight in Lhasa

Day 04 Lhasa/Gyantse/Shalu Monastery, Camping

Gampala pass, Yamdrok-tso

In the morning, we leave Lhasa and journey towards Shigatse. Along the way, we cross the Gampala Pass (4790m), where we are treated to the stunning views of Yamdrok-tso Lake (4400m). Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the lake presents breathtaking scenery, including the magnificent Holy Mount Nyenchen Khangsar (7191m), which is the tallest mountain near Lhasa.

As we continue our travels, we pass the impressive Korola Glacier, a sight to behold. At Manak Dam Lake, we have the chance to hang prayer flags at Simila Mountain Pass. Our next destination is Gyantse, which was historically the third-largest city in Tibet. Here, we visit the famous Pelkor Monastery and Gyantse Kumbum, while enjoying distant views of Gyangtse Fortress.

After a day filled with driving, we finally arrive at Shalu Monastery, the home of Buton Rinchen Drub, a revered Tibetan Buddhist master celebrated for his translations of Indian Buddhist scriptures. Nearby Shalu, our trekking expedition begins as we head to a suitable campsite just a few kilometers away. Tonight, we will establish our first camp, enveloped by the tranquil beauty of the Tibetan landscape.

Dinner

Day 05 Shalu (3980m)/upper Lungsang(4060m), Trekking 5 -6 hours, 12km, Camp

Upper Lungsang

Following breakfast at the camp, we begin our journey to Upper Lungsang, which stands at an altitude of 4060 meters above sea level. As we make our way along the trail, we encounter several notable landmarks, such as Ripu Hermitage, flood plains, Phunup village, and the Showa-la Pass. This picturesque path offers a wonderful chance to engage with the rural lifestyle of Tibetan farmers. We witness the local Tibetan communities in these tranquil surroundings as they practice their Buddhist traditions.

Overnight at upper Lungsang Camp

Day 06 Upper Lungsang/Ngor Monastery/Nartang Monastery/Shigatse, (trekking 5 -6 hours, 14km)

Char-la Pass

As we trek through the verdant agricultural fields, we head towards the charming village of Ngor. This village is home to the famous Ngor Monastery, known for its Sanskrit library and beautiful Newar-style murals. Once a thriving hub of education, the monastery featured five assembly halls, 18 colleges, and accommodated 400 monks. Our adventure continues as we climb the Char-la Pass (4550m), an ancient trade route that previously linked Shalu and Sakya Monastery, now faded from memory. The crossing involves navigating steep inclines and rugged rocky terrain, providing an exhilarating experience for trekkers. From Ngor, our path takes us through various villages, over mountain saddles, and past an electric utility on our way to Nartang. Throughout this journey, we revel in the breathtaking views of the Tibetan landscape. As our trek approaches its conclusion, we transition to a scenic drive to Shigatse City, Tibet’s second-largest city and the residence of the Panchen Lama. Here, we can delve into the rich culture and heritage of this historic locale.

Overnight in Shigatse

Day 07 Shigatse/Lhasa

Tashilunpo monastery

After saying goodbye to Shigatse, we embark on a picturesque four-hour drive back to Lhasa. During our journey, we take a memorable detour to Tashilunpo Monastery, the largest monastery in western Tibet and an important historical landmark on our Tibet expedition. Established in 1447 by Genden Drup, a follower of Tsongkhapa and the first Dalai Lama, Tashilunpo Monastery is deeply significant within the Gelugpa tradition. Among its remarkable features is the Jamkhang Chenmo, which contains the world’s tallest gilded copper statue, reaching an impressive height of 26 meters, representing the future deity Jampa. As we continue along the Friendship Highway, we relish the stunning landscapes that accompany us on our way back to Lhasa, marking the end of our unforgettable adventure through the heart of Tibet.

Overnight in Lhasa

Day 08 Depart from Lhasa

The itinerary is coming to a close. We look forward to meeting you again.

We will assist you with your transfer to Lhasa airport or the train station to wrap up our services. If you prefer to prolong your visit in Tibet, you have the opportunity to discover other fascinating locations in China, such as Gyantse, Shigatse, Everest Base Camp, and beyond. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for any additional help.

Breakfast

Dates and Prices

Prices

Service Included:

Tibet Travel Permit application service and mailing service within China.
Entrance tickets to the listed attractions and activities.
Accommodations are in three-star hotels with breakfast throughout the journey.
Comfortable and safe tourist vehicle.
Excellent Tibetan English-speaking guide.
Farm house lunch and welcome dinner.
Travel accident insurance and high-altitude sickness insurance.
Shuutle service between the airport/train station and Lhasa city.
Exquisite Tibetan gifts and travel maps.
On-board medical oxygen supply for travel in high-altitude areas.

Service Excluded:

International and domestic transportation to and from Tibet.
Single room supply for solo travelers who require a single room.
Some meal expenses are not included in the tour (the guide will assist in arranging and recommending meals; you are responsible for the cost).

Trekking and Mt. Kailash

1.Spring and fall are the finest seasons to trek Mount Kailash.
The greatest seasons to undertake this incredible walk are from April to early June (spring) and late September to the end of October (autumn), as the weather in Ngari can be harsh at various points in the year. During these periods, you may expect dry and nice weather with clear skies and minimal rain to hinder your walking.

Although it might get quite wet in late July and August, the region near Ngari experiences very little monsoon rains, so the walk can also be completed in the summer. It is better to limit your travel to spring and autumn unless you can be certain of favorable weather. Winter has officially ended since this part of Tibet can get extremely cold, and by the end of December, snow usually covers the pass, making it nearly impossible to traverse.

2.The Mount Kailash trek requires additional permits in addition to the Tibet Travel Permit.
While obtaining a permit is necessary for trekking around Mount Kailash, there aren’t many concerns. Every traveler to Tibet must be on a prearranged tour with a licensed tour operator; the tour operator will apply for the necessary permissions on your behalf. The following permits are required for the Kailash Kora trek:

Tibet Travel Permit – This is required for entry to Tibet and to travel around the area of Lhasa.
Aliens’Travel Permit – Required for travel to the “unopened” areas of Tibet outside Lhasa, including Shigatse.
Foreign Affairs Permit – This is a must for visiting sensitive borders such as Mt. Kailash and eastern Tibet.
Military Permit – Required for travel to the military-sensitive areas in Tibet, such as Ngari (Mount Kailash, Lake Manasarovar, etc.), Nyingchi and Chamdo.

Our tour package includes all of these permits, and we will help with the application process to guarantee a pleasant trip to Mount Kailash. But be aware that it takes around 15 to 20 days to process a Tibet travel permit, so it’s best to make reservations well in advance.

1. Local Guesthouse
When you go trekking in Tibet, you have two choices for accommodations. If they are not already full, you can spend the night in the guesthouses found in most trekking areas, which are frequently attached to the nearby monasteries.

In the past, guesthouses in Tibet had very little furnishings—just a cot for sleeping on and a blanket for warmth—that didn’t actually keep out the cold. The guesthouses along the walking trails are in much better condition these days, and many of them have indoor toilets and running water in their bunk rooms. Though many now offer beds, very few have heating, so it’s still essential to carry a sleeping bag.

2. Camping
The second alternative is camping, which can be really cold at night, even though it can feel like an adventure. Nevertheless, there might not be many options in some places because guesthouses might fill up quickly during the peak season of the year or there is no guesthouse in some areas. A good tent and an adequate arctic sleeping bag are essentials when camping in order to resist the cold.

In Tibet, eating while trekking mostly depends on the place you are. Small restaurants and guesthouses can be found along a portion of the trail. The food served there is prepared to give you as much energy as possible.

It is necessary to have food and cooking supplies if you will be going on paths with few places to stop for several days. For the majority of tours, you can either hire a cook to prepare your meals or with the assistance of your trekking guide.

It is advised that you bring high-protein, high-energy foods with you to help you regain lost energy more quickly at higher elevations. Snacks include protein bars, almonds, chocolate, cookies, and dried fruit. While trekking in Tibet, packet meals are also a great way to make meals. Many companies produce specially made trekking foods that are lighter than large packets and tins while still providing a satisfying meal.

1. Tibet Travel Permit
Tibet Travel Permit, which is essential for both trekking and travel in Tibet, may only be authorized by Tibet tour operators. We will apply for the permit on your behalf after you have made your Tibet trip reservation with us and mailed us copies of your passport and Chinese entry visa. We will send the permit to your hotel on the Chinese mainland after it has been authorized. You will need the original permit to board flights to Lhasa, although a photocopy is accepted for the train.

2. Alien’s Travel Permit
Only having Tibet travel Permit does not give you direct access to the Ali region. Usually, tourists choose to travel overland to Ali via the Shigatse region. In this case, you will also need to apply for an alien’s travel permit.The Alien’s travel permit is one of the necessary documents for foreign tourists to travel to Shigatse, Ali and other places.Compared with Tibet Travel Permit, it is much easier to apply for Alien’s travel permit. Tourists can do so in Lhasa or Shigatse. You need to bring your original passport to apply for a travel permit, so the tour guide will accompany you and help you with the documents when you arrive, and the whole process will only take 1-2 hours.
More areas that require a Alien’sTravel Permit include:

Shigatse: Sakya Monastery, Mount Everest, Rongbuk Monastery;
Zhanang County: Samye Monastery, Tombs of the Tibet Kings, Changzhu Monastery,Yongbulakang;
Gyantse: Pelkor Monastery and Wan Pagodas;
Ali area: Kailas Range, Lake Manasarovar, Gurge kingdom, etc.;
Nyingchi area: Basom, Bome, Ranwu Lake, etc.;
Qamdo area: Qamdo, Riwoche Temple, Dingqing, etc.

3. Military Permit
For tourists going to Ali Kailash, whether they choose to fly directly from Lhasa to Ali Kunsha or go by land via Shigatse, they need to apply for a Military Permit.

Normally, it takes 10-15 working days to process the Military Permit, and the documents required are almost the same as the materials required to apply for the Tibet Travel Permit. In order not to delay the trip, usually the travel agency will apply for Tibet Travel Permit and the Military Permit for you at the same time.

Tips:
Usually the Military Permit will be sent to you with the Tibet Travel Permit, please be sure to keep it properly to avoid loss and delay your trip.
Tourist with Indian passports who wish to visit the sacred lake area in Ali will need to go through a series of formalities through the pilgrim centre.

More areas that need to apply for a Military Permit include:
Ali area: Pulan County, Zada County, Ritu County, Gar County;
Shigatse Area: Zhongba County, Saga County, Nyalam County (Zhangmu), Tingri County, Kangma County, Gangba County, Dingjie County, Jilong County, Yadong;
Nyingchi area: Motuo County, Lang County, Milin County, Chayu County;
Shannan area: Langkazi County, Cuona County, Luozha County, Longzi County.

The best time is generally from May to October. The snow in the pass is thicker in April to June, and there is relatively little snow in July to September, and the road is easier to walk, but there will also be strong winds.

It is important to note that there may be snow on the way to the mountain in May; July and August are the rainy seasons, with the most precipitation, and the mountain passes are often covered with snow and ice and impassable. Snow can arrive at any time of the year, and nighttime temperatures are often below freezing. So, travelers are prepared for the vagaries of the weather.

1. Necessary clothing and outdoor items

Backpack and rain cover: not less than 50 liters and with a professional carrying system; It is recommended to bring a carry-on backpack (30L) or a fanny pack

Sleeping bag: Sleeping bag is very practical on the plateau, to keep moisture-proof and warm, and improve sleep quality.

Headlamp/flashlight with spare batteries, lifeguard whistle, multi-function knife, lighter: walking at night or in case of emergencies

Jacket and pants: Jacket and pants with wind resistance, warmth and waterproofing.

Snow Cover: Before June, there should be snow at the Zhuomala Pass, and the Snow Cover is still necessary

Hiking shoes or trekking shoes and spare shoes: high top waterproof to protect the ankle joint, try not to wear new shoes.

Thermal underwear, fleece, sweaters

Down jackets: Collapsible down jacket is available

Quick-drying clothes: Cope with the sudden change of weather on the plateau

Cotton socks: several pairs; Thickness is required

Windproof gloves, non-slip gloves

Trekking poles: two

Sun hats, sunglasses or snow goggles

Simple crampons: If you are trekking before June, it is recommended to bring simple crampons, as the downhill road after crossing the Dolmala Pass is all icy roads, and crampons can increase the safety factor

Insulated kettle: It is very necessary to have a cup of hot water in a low temperature environment

Toiletries

2. Necessary medicines (bring the appropriate medicines according to your personal situation)

First aid medicine, plateau headache, cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, anti-inflammatory medicine, gunpowder, bone-setting medicine, multivitamin, glucose powder

3. Others

Food: Compressed biscuits, chocolate, beef jerky, coffee, tea, American ginseng, chewing gum and other personal habitual foods, it is recommended to carry more vitamin-rich foods and high-calorie foods

Equipment: mobile phones, spare batteries for mobile phones, mobile phone chargers, cameras, memory cards, spare batteries for cameras, camera chargers, watches, pens and paper, tripods, etc

Daily necessities: lunch boxes, tableware, toiletries, garbage bags, wet and dry wipes, sunscreen, lip balm, skin cream (hydration type is the best)

During the 4-day trekking from Dingri to Everest Base Camp, you will need to camp at a designated place. After arriving at the Everest base camp, the only accommodation option is a tent, which is relatively simple, mostly a wide bed for a number of people. When going to Everest Base Camp in winter, tent hotels are often closed, and you may need to stay in Zhaxizong town or Dingri.

The outer circle takes Kailash as the core, with a total length of about 54 kilometers, which takes 2 to 3 days, and locals can complete the turn in one day by walking day and night. Generally in the outer circle must be turned 13 times to be eligible to turn the inner circle, so basically tourists will choose to turn the outer circle. The trip can be divided into one day, two days, three days, the exact length of the trip depends on your physical strength, confidence, endurance and perseverance. Generally speaking, three days is more suitable. You can ask the guide and the porter, please pay attention to prevent the altitude reaction.

Whenever you travel to Everest, you can follow a multi-level dressing method, which is convenient to adjust according to the temperature changes. You can wear a single garment in summer, at least three layers of clothing (base – sweater – jacket) in spring and autumn, and in winter you need to increase the warmth and wind resistance of clothing. In addition, due to the strong ultraviolet rays in Tibet, sunglasses and hats are also essential.

The best time to go trekking on Mount Everest is in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). At this time, the weather is more stable, which provides favorable weather conditions for trekking.

In addition, although the summer (July-August) is the rainy season in Tibet, it rains more at night, but is sunny during the day, and the temperature is comfortable, which is also a good choice.
In winter (November – March of the following year), although the temperature is low, you can enjoy the stars and the Milky Way of Everest. Winter is the off-season of tourism in Tibet, and the price of traveling to Mount Everest is lower than during the peak season.

The classic trek on Karma Gully East Slope of Everest usually takes 8 days.

Day 1: Yupa Village – Xiao Wu Co (10 km hike)
Day 2: Xiaowco – Zhuoxiang (14 km hike)
Day 3: Zhuoxiang – Tangxiang Observation Deck (12 km hike)
Day 4: Tangxiang Observation Deck – Bai Dang (11 km hike)
Day 5: Baldang – Everest East Slope Base Camp – Baldang (18 km hike)
Day 6: Bailang – Tangxiang Observation Deck (14 km hike)
Day 7: Tangxiang Viewing Platform – Cuoxurenma (11 km hike)
Day 8: Tsoxue Renma – Lunzhulin Village (14 km hike)

You can hire a porter and his carrying tools, yaks or horses. A yak or horse will be responsible for carrying your luggage during the trek. Usually, you can share the cost of this service with other members of your group.

If you have such needs, please communicate with your guide in advance so that they can make arrangements for you. This greatly reduces the burden on your trekking and makes it easier for you to focus on enjoying the beauty scenery and having a better experience.

Warm Hint

Before submitting an application for the Tibet Entry Permit into Tibet, please confirm that your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
When entering Tibet from Kathmandu, the Chinese visa must be processed in Kathmandu; please do not process it in your home country beforehand. If a tourist previously held a long-term valid Chinese visa, when applying for a Chinese visa in Kathmandu, the old visa will be replaced by a 30-day valid group travel visa.
Tibet can only utilize the RMB. If you require RMB, you can swap it for US dollars in your area or withdraw money from an ATM.
Be healthy and prevent colds before traveling to Tibet.
When traveling to Tibet, both the airport and the train station will check the Tibet Entry Permit. Please keep the original safe, and do not write or draw on it.
Before traveling to Tibet, please ensure that you obtain your Tibet Entry Permit and verify your identity.
It is not suggested that pregnant women or people with severe hypertension, heart problems, or asthma travel to Tibet.
If you are concerned about excessive altitude sickness after visiting Tibet, take a suitable dosage of Rhodiola oral solution or pills before entering Tibet.
When traveling in Tibet, you must remain with the group throughout the entire trip and cannot leave at any time.
Please pack vitamins and stock medicine in your luggage.
When traveling on the plateau, stay hydrated, exercise slowly, eat more fruits, and take vitamins.
When first approaching the plateau, avoid smoking and drinking until the body is properly accustomed to the surroundings.

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8-Day Shalu to Nartang Trek: Explore the Best Countryside Hiking Trail

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Trekking and Mt. Kailash

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