9-Day Ganden to Samye Trek

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Route Highlights:

Set out on an awe-inspiring journey through Tibet’s rugged terrain, ancient monasteries, and picturesque valleys, culminating in a spiritual exploration of the sacred Ganden to Samye trek.

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Journey Features

Embark on a transformative nine-day adventure through the heart of Tibet with the Ganden to Samye trek. Begin your journey in Lhasa, the spiritual capital, where you’ll explore iconic landmarks such as the Potala Palace, Johkang Temple, Sera Monastery, and Drepung Monastery. Then, venture into the wilderness as you trek through breathtaking landscapes, from the tranquil Tsotup Chu Valley to the rugged terrain leading to Yamalung Hermitage. Along the way, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Tibet, interacting with local villagers and experiencing the peaceful serenity of remote herder camps. Finally, conclude your trek with a visit to the historic Samye Monastery, nestled amidst the scenic Yarlung River Valley, before bidding farewell to Tibet and departing for your next destination. This unforgettable journey offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, spiritual discovery, and cultural immersion.

Itinerary

Cost

Travel Guide

Travel Tips

Itinerary Details

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

Day 2: Lhasa Sightseeing – Explore the iconic Potala Palace and Johkang Temple

Day 3: Lhasa Sightseeing – Visit the serene Sera Monastery and historic Drepung Monastery

Day 4: Lhasa to Ganden to Tsubshi to Yama-do (Trekking 2 to 3 hours, 7km)

Day 5: Trek to Tsotup Chu Valley (5 to 6 hours, 10km)

Day 6: Trek to Herder’s Camp (5 to 6 hours, 14km)

Day 7: Trek to Yamalung (6 hours, 9km) – Passing through Changtang village and visiting Yamalung Hermitage

Day 8: Explore Samye Monastery and Yarlung River Valley, overnight stay in Samye Town

Day 9: Transfer to Airport or Train Station for departure to your next destination.

Day 01 Arrive in Lhasa

Welcome to Lhasa

Travel to Lhasa city from either Lhasa Gongar Airport or the Lhasa train station. Take some time to rest in Lhasa to acclimate to the high altitude.

Overnight in Lhasa

lhasa airport 9 day ganden to samye trek

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Day 02 Lhasa City Tour

Potala Palace, Jokhang Monastery, Barkhor Street

Start your day with a trip to the breathtaking Potala Palace, an impressive museum that highlights the splendor of Tibetan architecture and culture. Wander through its grand chapels, which are decorated with detailed statuary, colorful frescoes, and intricate paintings. Be captivated by the gilded burial chortens of former Dalai Lamas, which serve as powerful symbols of reverence and spiritual importance.

Next, immerse yourself in the sacred ambiance of Jokhang Temple, regarded as Tibet’s holiest site. Observe the dedicated pilgrims from all over the region as they pay their respects to the stunning statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, shown at the age of twelve.

Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk along Barkhor Street, a lively pilgrimage route that circles the Jokhang Temple. Experience its vibrant atmosphere, filled with vendors offering a wide range of handicrafts, jewelry, traditional Tibetan clothing, and more. Get lost in the sights, sounds, and scents of this bustling bazaar, which is an essential part of Lhasa’s rich cultural tapestry.

Overnight in Lhasa

Day 03 Lhasa City Tour

Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery

Embark on a journey to uncover the rich spiritual legacy of Tibet by visiting its two most significant monasteries, Drepung and Sera. Founded in 1416 by Jamyang Choeje, Drepung Monastery once accommodated around 10,000 monks. Located at the base of a mountain, this sacred site is split into two colleges: Drepung Loselling and Drepung Gomang. Discover the historic Ganden Podrang, which served as the government center before the fifth Dalai Lama moved it to the renowned Potala Palace.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of Sera Monastery, established in 1419 by Jamchen Choeje, a disciple of Tsongkapa. Observe the harmonious gathering of monks from various colleges as they come together to pray in the ‘Tsokhang Chenmo.’ Don’t miss the lively debates taking place among the monks in the courtyard, a beloved tradition that occurs from 6:00 to 7:30 PM.

(Note: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider undertaking the Kora, which involves circling the sacred sites of Drepung and Sera Monastery. Afterward, return to your hotel to prepare your food supplies and trekking gear for the exciting adventure that awaits.)

Overnight in Lhasa

Day 04 Lhasa to Gangba Village

Ganden Monastery(trekking 2 to 3 hours,7km)

Begin your enlightening journey by driving to the revered Ganden Monastery in the morning. Once you have absorbed its spiritual atmosphere, proceed to Tsubshi Village, where arrangements for yaks will be organized. From that point, set off on your trekking adventure toward Yama-do, a beautiful location that awaits you. The trek to Yama-do takes about 2-3 hours, giving you the opportunity to appreciate the stunning scenery and enjoy the serenity of nature along the route.

Camping

Day 05 Trek to Tsotup Chu Valley

Tsotup Chu (5 to 6hours,10km)

As the morning breaks, we leave the peaceful valley floor and set out on a journey through a steep gully, climbing away from the stream bank. Our route takes us to the challenging Shug La, where we begin our descent through difficult boulder fields. With perseverance and grit, we traverse the rough landscape until we arrive at the banks of Tsotup Chu, a vast stream winding through the valley. In this tranquil setting, we choose a cozy campsite in one of the herder fields, prepared to relax and recharge for the adventures that await us.

Camping

Day 06 Trek to Herder’s Camp

Tsotup Chu, Chitu La pass (5 to 6 hours,14km)

As we travel alongside the enchanting Tsotup Chu and its tributary, our destination is the impressive Chitu La pass. We tackle the rugged, rocky landscape with unwavering resolve. Once we reach the summit, we make a quick descent, eager to find an idyllic spot to pitch our camp next to the calm stream. Our path takes us past serene herder camps, wrapped in quiet solitude, for nearly an hour until we locate the perfect campsite. As the sun sets on yet another beautiful day of our trek, we take time to appreciate the tranquility and splendor of our surroundings, preparing to rest and recharge for the adventures that lie ahead tomorrow.

Camping

Day 07 Trek to Yamalung

Changtangvillage, Yamalung Hermitage (6 hours, 39km)

On this 39km journey, you’ll hike roughly 15km, while the remaining 24km will be comfortably traveled by our tour vehicle. As we move through the main valley, the trail widens, making the trek easier. Surrounded by lush forests and the gentle sounds of babbling streams, we will be enchanted by the stunning natural scenery around us. The hours ahead reveal the most beautiful part of our trip, featuring a variety of scrub trees, bright rhododendrons in full bloom, and vast meadows that enhance our path at every turn. In Changtang village, we’ll catch a glimpse of local life before choosing to take an optional one-hour hike to the ancient and revered Yamalung Hermitage, a sacred site for Buddhist meditation. After our trek, our driver will be ready to take us to Samye, where we can relax and recharge at the guesthouse.

Overnight at Samye guesthouse

Day 08 Explore the Samye Monastery and Yarlung River Valley

Samye Monastery, Yarlung River Valley

Samye Monastery is recognized as the first monastery founded in Tibet, representing the core principles of the three Buddhist jewels: Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. Its rich historical background and distinctive architectural elements attract visitors from around the world. Following our exploration of the marvels of Samye, we wrap up our journey and find rest in Samye Town, located close to the serene waters of the Yarlung River.

Overnight in Samye Town

Day 09 Drive to Airport/Train station

Depart from Tibet to embark on your journey to your next destination

Drive about 1.5 hours to Lhasa airport and take your flight to the next place.

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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9-Day Ganden to Samye Trek

Itinerary Details

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Dates and Prices

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Trekking and Mt. Kailash

Warm Hint

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