9-Day Trek from Tsurphu to Yangpachen

Tour Route: Lhasa-Tsurphu Monastery-Yangpachen Monastery

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Route Highlights:

Experience the diverse landscapes and cultural heritage of Tibet on the Tsurphu to Yangpachen trek, as you journey through high-altitude passes, verdant valleys, and ancient monasteries nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas.

Journey Features

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Tibet on the Tsurphu to Yangpachen trek. Over the course of nine days, immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry and breathtaking landscapes of this mystical land. Begin your adventure with two days of exploration in Lhasa, visiting iconic sites such as the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. As you journey from Tsurphu Monastery to Yangpachen, trekking through rugged terrain and high-altitude passes, you’ll encounter pristine alpine meadows, sacred monasteries, and panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks. Each day brings new discoveries and challenges, culminating in a deeply enriching experience. Whether you’re drawn to the spiritual heritage of Tibet or the raw beauty of its natural landscapes, this trek promises an adventure of a lifetime.

Itinerary Details

9 days trek from tsurphu to yangpachen itinerary

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

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

Day 4: Lhasa to Tsurphu Monastery (4500m) – 79km, 2-3 hours drive

Day 5: Tsurphu Monastery to Leten – Trekking 4-5 hours, 11km

Day 6: Leten to Bartso – Trekking 5-6 hours, 15km

Day 7: Bartso to Dorje Ling Nunnery – Trekking 4 hours, 15km

Day 8: Dorje Ling Nunnery to Yangpachen Monastery to Lhasa – 14km trekking, 4 hours

Day 9: Drop-off at Lhasa Airport

Submission and Free Consultation

Day 01 Arrive in Lhasa

Welcome to Lhasa

Upon reaching Lhasa Gongar Airport or the 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 9 days trek from tsurphu to yangpachen

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Day 02 Lhasa City Tour

Potala Palace, Jokhang Monastery, Barkhor Street

Today, we will explore the rich cultural and spiritual legacy of Lhasa, beginning with a visit to the iconic Potala Palace. This historic site, which sits majestically atop crimson hills, was formerly the center of Tibetan political and religious authority. As we climb the 365 steps to its impressive entrance, we’ll wander through its ancient halls, decorated with intricate murals and sacred Buddha statues, providing a glimpse into Tibet’s opulent history.

Next, we’ll head to the venerated Jokhang Temple, a holy site that houses the admired 12-year-old statue of Shakyamuni. We will join pilgrims in a circumambulation around Barkor Street, soaking in the spiritual energy that fills the atmosphere. Our guide will then take us to a local Tibetan teahouse, where we’ll enjoy traditional tea and learn about the social customs of this intriguing culture.

Overnight in Lhasa

Day 03 Lhasa City Tour

Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery

Today’s schedule features visits to two unique monasteries in Lhasa: Drepung and Sera. These sites offer profound insights into Tibetan Buddhism as you wander through their sacred halls, educational institutions, and even observe the monks at work in the kitchen. Sera Monastery is particularly notable for its dynamic Buddhist debates, which capture the spirit of Tibetan Buddhism. Here, monks engage in lively discussions, employing expressive body language and animated gestures to explore Buddhist philosophy in an engaging way. To wrap up the day, our guide will escort the group to a traditional Tibetan restaurant for a welcome dinner, marking the beginning of your unforgettable adventure in Tibet.

Overnight in Lhasa

Day 04 Lhasa to Gangba Village

Tsurphu Monastery [4500m] (79km, 2-3hrs drive)

The trip from Lhasa to Tsurphu Monastery is a picturesque drive that lasts several hours, winding through stunning landscapes. As we rise to an elevation of 4,300 meters, it’s important to allow ourselves time to acclimate before starting the upcoming trek. Once we arrive at Tsurphu Monastery, we’ll have a relaxed lunch before delving into this holy site, absorbing its spiritual atmosphere and deep cultural history.

Camping

Day 05 Tsurphu Monastery/Leten

Breathtaking Scenery (trekking 4-5 hours, 11km)

On the initial day of your trek, you’ll set out on a 4-5 hour adventure spanning 11 kilometers through a beautiful green valley, interspersed with meandering mountain streams. Be on the lookout for the elusive mountain goats, which blend seamlessly with the gray rocks, enhancing the natural allure of the area. As you make your way through this stunning terrain, you will come across small nomadic communities that inhabit the region during the summer months, their rock-enclosed huts scattered across the high plateau. In this magnificent setting, you’ll scout for a suitable flat spot to establish your campsite, all while surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of traditional Tibetan landscapes.

Camping

Day 06 Leten/Bartso

Lasar La, Yangpachen valley(trekking 5-6 hours, 15km)

Today’s adventure will take you through a wide, expansive valley, culminating in the climb to the impressive Lasar La, which rises to an altitude of 5400m. Along the journey, you’ll first tackle the small Damchen-la pass at 5200m before turning left at the cairns located at the summit. As you descend into the valley below, you’ll be welcomed by a picturesque scene reminiscent of a fairytale, with winding streams flowing through the landscape beneath a vast, powder-blue sky. After three hours of hiking, you’ll reach the Lasar La at 5300m and then descend into the broad Yangpachen valley. Here, expansive plateaus stretch endlessly, guiding you toward the charming village of Bartso. Tucked away among juniper trees, Bartso is a nomadic settlement featuring five or six traditional homes, surrounded by the aromatic juniper that is used for incense throughout Tibet.

Camping around Bartso

Day 07 Bartso/Dorje Ling Nunnery

Nyenchen Tanghlha, Djore Ling Ani Gompa (Trekking 4 hours, 15km)

Departing from the delightful village of Bartso, you’ll follow a broad trail that winds through the valley and climbs over another ridge, revealing stunning views of Nyenchen Tanghlha, the sacred mountain that stands at 7111 meters—the most revered peak in central Tibet. As you proceed, you’ll pass through Tajung village, where you can observe the daily life of the nomads. Gently ascending over undulating hills, you’ll spot young nomadic children tending to their yaks and sheep grazing on the plateaus, enhancing the picturesque landscape. By midday, you’ll reach the tranquil Djore Ling Ani Gompa, a peaceful nunnery where you’ll set up camp for the night. Here, you might have the opportunity to engage with the welcoming nuns, who may invite you into their tea-house. Be ready to enjoy a generous portion of yak meat, using the provided bowie knife to relish this traditional treat, followed by a delightful photo session to capture these unforgettable moments.

Camping near Nunnery

Day 08 Dorje Ling Nunnery/Yangpachen Monastery/Lhasa

Yangpachen Monastery (14km trekking, 4 hours)

Today’s hike spans 14 kilometers, taking us from the Droje Ling Nunnery through the beautiful Tsaburing valley to the renowned Yangpachen Monastery. After our trek, we will drive back to Lhasa. It’s important to mention that a concrete road has recently been built connecting Dorje Ling and other locations further up the valley. If you would rather drive back to Lhasa instead of trekking on the last day, just let your tour guide know, and they can make the necessary transportation arrangements for you.

Overnight in Lhasa

Day 09 Depart from Lhasa

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

We will wrap up our journey with a drop-off at either the Lhasa airport or train station, signifying the conclusion of our services. However, if you’re interested in prolonging your stay in Tibet, you can choose to visit additional fascinating locations in China, including Gyantse, Shigatse, Everest Base Camp, and beyond. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need any help or more details about your extended travel arrangements.

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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