Panoramic Amdo

Explore the cultural and nomadic heartlands of undiscovered Eastern Tibet. Journey to the shores of stunning turquoise lakes, visit nomadic herders tending yaks and sheep, and enjoy a picnic among blooming yellow wildflower fields. Take short hikes to soak in breathtaking views of pristine landscapes. Discover remote monasteries tucked into mountainsides, and travel to the holiest and most majestic snow-capped mountain in Amdo.

Itinerary: 

Day 1: Xining – Kumbum Monastery – Qinghai Lake – Trika / Gui’de County [2,205m]

Begin your journey with a drive to Kumbum Monastery, located 25 km southwest of Xining. This renowned monastery is the birthplace of Je Tsongkhapa, founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. With over 600 resident monks and scenic hills surrounding it, Kumbum offers rich spiritual and hiking experiences. Continue to Qinghai Lake, the largest lake in China. You may opt to go horseback riding along the lake’s shore with local Tibetan herders (a small tip is appreciated). Then drive east toward the sand dunes and descend into the historic town of Trika (Gui’de). If timing allows, catching the sunset from the old Yellow River bridge is an unforgettable way to end the day.

Day 2: Trika – Kamra / Kanbula National Park – Rebkong (Tongren) [2,480m]

Trika is one of the lowest-altitude towns in Qinghai and is renowned for having the cleanest section of the Yellow River, which appears more green than yellow here. In the morning, visit the small Jokhang Temple, named after the statue of the Buddha enshrined in its main hall. Drive along a tributary of the Yellow River into Kanbula National Park, a region of forested cliffs and red sandstone (Danxia) formations. An optional detour takes you to Achung Namdzong Nunnery, a secluded and historically significant meditation retreat nestled in a deep valley. Continue uphill for a panoramic view of the Danxia red clay mountains and the Yellow River reservoir created by the hydropower station. Descend toward Jantsa, then follow the Yellow River to Rebkong, home to vibrant monastic and artistic traditions.

Day 3: Rebkong – Labrang / Xiahe [2,900m]

In the morning, visit Rongwu Monastery and the Sangeshong upper and lower monasteries. Then explore the Tibetan thangka artists’ villages, where families continue centuries-old painting traditions. After lunch, drive through narrow valleys and small villages to the vast Ganjia Grasslands, and arrive at Labrang, one of the most significant monastic towns in Amdo.

Day 4: Labrang / Xiahe [2,900m]

Today, a local monk will guide you through the grand and historic Labrang Monastery, famous for its architecture, monastic colleges, and sacred rituals. In the afternoon, join pilgrims on a kora (circumambulation) around the monastery or hike up one of the surrounding hills for sweeping views of the complex and its valley setting.

Day 5: Labrang – Xunhua – Dongri Lhatso Lake – Xining [2,270m]

Drive to Xunhua County, the birthplace of the 10th Panchen Lama, the second highest spiritual figure in Tibet after the Dalai Lama. Continue to Dongri Lhatso Lake (Menda Tianchi Lake). After a 12 km drive, reach the parking area and begin a steep 40-minute hike up to the sacred alpine lake located within the Menda Reserve. After taking in the serene views, return to your vehicle and drive back to Xining for a well-deserved rest and hearty meal.

Day 6: Depart Xining

Say farewell to Amdo and your local Tibetan team. End of tour.

Itineraries are subject to change without prior notice.

Tour Map