Namcha Barwa Trek

After an early morning flight from Kathmandu or Chengdu, you’ll arrive in Lhasa. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and take the rest of the afternoon to acclimate to the high altitude. Enjoy a peaceful evening in the city while preparing for the adventure ahead. Take it easy to prevent altitude sickness, and you can explore nearby streets to get familiar with Tibetan culture before resting for the night.

Begin your journey with a scenic drive through Tibet’s mountainous terrain, heading towards Bayi town. Along the way, witness spectacular landscapes, rivers, and rural Tibetan settlements. The road offers glimpses of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. Arrive in Bayi, a small but bustling town, and settle in for the night at a local hotel. Enjoy the evening resting or taking short walks around the town.

Today, you’ll drive to Pailong, a small town surrounded by pristine nature, setting the stage for your trekking adventure. Upon arrival, take time to set up camp and finalize preparations for the upcoming trek. This area is remote and offers a true escape into the wilderness. After settling in, you can explore the local surroundings before spending the night camping under the stars.

Embark on your first day of trekking by crossing a thrilling cable bridge that connects Pailong to the other side of the river. Continue trekking through lush green forests, with views of towering mountains and streams. You’ll reach Yumei village in the late afternoon, where you can either camp or stay in a local house. Take in the serenity of the village and interact with the local people before retiring for the night.

Today’s trek takes you deeper into the Tibetan wilderness, as you make your way to the remote village of Zhaqu. Pass through enchanting landscapes with alpine forests and wide-open plains. The trail may be challenging, but the rewards are great with stunning scenery throughout. You’ll arrive at Zhaqu in the afternoon, where you will set up camp or stay with local families, experiencing traditional Tibetan hospitality.

Spend the day trekking around Zhaqu, exploring the breathtaking Yarlung Zangbo River and Namche Barwa, the world’s deepest canyon. The day is filled with dramatic landscapes, towering cliffs, and diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as you walk along the riverbanks, with Namche Barwa mountain in the distance. Return to camp for the night, reflecting on the magnificence of the day’s explorations.

After spending time in Zhaqu, it’s time to retrace your steps back to Yumei. The return trek offers a new perspective on the stunning landscapes you passed earlier. The descent is easier, allowing more time to enjoy the scenery and spot wildlife. Arrive in Yumei by late afternoon, where you’ll camp or stay with locals for the night, sharing stories and experiences from your adventure.

Trek back to Pailong, where the trekking part of the journey concludes. After reaching Pailong, hop back into the vehicle for the scenic drive to Bayi town. The familiar surroundings feel different after the trekking experience, and you can relax and unwind after days of exertion. Arrive in Bayi, where you’ll stay in a hotel, with time to rest and refresh for the next leg of the journey.

Today, the drive takes you further into Tibet as you make your way to the Basum (Basu) area. The route is dotted with pristine lakes, rolling hills, and dense forests, providing an ever-changing backdrop to your journey. Upon arrival, you can visit Basum Lake, a tranquil and picturesque body of water surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Spend the night in a nearby guesthouse, enjoying the peaceful natural environment.

Continue driving through the majestic Tibetan landscape, heading towards Bamda (Bangda). This remote area is known for its rugged beauty and high-altitude plains. The long journey will give you ample time to soak in the natural splendor of Tibet. Arrive in Bamda in the afternoon, where you’ll check into a guesthouse or small hotel for the night. Rest well in preparation for your return to Lhasa the following day.

After breakfast, you’ll catch a short flight from Bamda back to Lhasa, where you’ll have time for some last-minute sightseeing or shopping. In the afternoon, board your return flight to Kathmandu or Chengdu, marking the end of your Tibetan adventure. Reflect on the memories of majestic landscapes, cultural encounters, and challenging treks as you head home. Safe travels!