Nomad Adventure

High on the green grasslands of the Tibetan plateau, Tibetan and Mongolian nomads live in harmony with their animals and environment. Camping with nomads offers a rare opportunity to experience an ancient way of life while immersing yourself in Tibetan culture. Spend a week visiting local nomadic communities, learning how to milk yaks, herd sheep, and ride horses. In the evenings, enjoy butter tea, yak jerky, and warm hospitality under the stars.

Highlights

• In-depth experience of traditional nomadic culture
• Visit charming local monasteries
• Camping, horseback riding, and short hikes

Details

• 8-day trip begins and ends in Xining, China
• 2 nights in hotels, 5 nights camping
• Average altitude of 3500m

Itinerary

Day 1: Xining – Gonlung Monastery (Youningsi) – Rebkong

Begin your journey with a drive to Gonlung Monastery, one of the four great Gelukpa monasteries along the Tsongchu River. Continue through winding valleys and along the Yellow River to reach Rebkong, renowned as the cradle of Tibetan art and home to a vibrant community of thangka painters.

Tara Statue in Rongwo Monastery in Rebkong

Day 2: Rebkong

Visit Longwu Monastery, a major monastic center dating back to the 13th century. Spend time in local Tibetan homes and explore traditional thangka painting schools. Meet artist families and learn about the deep cultural symbolism behind their sacred artwork.

Day 3: Rebkong – Tsekog Grasslands

Depart Rebkong and drive through forested mountain valleys toward the vast, open grasslands of Tsekog. Upon arrival, set up camp on the high plateau surrounded by grazing yaks and dramatic mountain views.

Day 4: Tsekog Grasslands

Spend the day immersed in nomadic life. Learn to herd yaks and sheep, make yogurt and butter, and practice riding a yak or horse. Local nomads will warmly guide you through their daily routines and welcome you into their world.

Day 5: Tsekog Grasslands

Another full day on the grasslands with nomadic hosts. Share meals, lend a hand with milking and cooking, and enjoy the simplicity of life close to nature. Optional short hike to surrounding ridges.

Day 6: Tsekog – Sogdzong (Henan) Grasslands

Drive to Sogdzong, a Mongolian region within Qinghai that shares strong ties with Tibetan culture. Camp alongside Mongolian herders in traditional yurts and experience their distinctive hospitality and horsemanship.

Day 7: Sogdzong Grasslands

Spend the day with Mongolian nomads, ride horses across the plains, and learn about their seasonal migrations and animal husbandry. Join them for a traditional meal and enjoy storytelling by the fire.

Day 8: Sogdzong – Xining

After breakfast, pack up camp and return to Xining, where your nomadic adventure concludes.