10-Day Tour of the Southern Route in Ngari, Tibet

Today you arrive in Lhasa, the “City of Sunshine.” A warm Tibetan welcome awaits as your local guide greets you with a traditional khata, a white ceremonial scarf symbolizing purity and blessings. En route to the city center, you’ll cross the Lhasa River Bridge, where a completely different landscape unfolds before your eyes — a deep blue sky, crystal-clear river waters, and fluttering prayer flags create a scene that is distinctively Tibetan. You’ve finally arrived in the holy city long dreamed of. Check in at the hotel and rest to acclimate to the high-altitude environment.

Lhasa is the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region and serves as its political, economic, and cultural heart. This ancient and mysterious city is also a spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism, rich in historical heritage, religious culture, and natural beauty.

Geographical Location:
Lhasa is located in the southwest of China, in the southeastern part of the Tibet Autonomous Region, along the upper reaches of the Lhasa River, a tributary of the Yarlung Tsangpo River. With an average elevation of about 3,650 meters, it is one of the highest cities in the world.

Historical & Cultural Significance:
Famous for its picturesque scenery, long history, distinctive customs, and strong religious atmosphere, Lhasa has received numerous honors, including “Excellent Tourism City of China,” “Most Favorite City for European Tourists,” “National Civilized City,” “China’s Safest City,” and has been ranked among the “Top 200 Most Attractive Cities in the World” and “Top 100 Must-Visit Cities in China (2018).”

Tourist Attractions:
Lhasa boasts numerous historical and cultural landmarks. The Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Norbulingka are all listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Other must-visit spots include Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery, Ramoche Temple, Zongjiao Lukang Park, Tibetan Kings’ Tombs, Chubu Monastery, Lhasa Great Mosque, Qugong Ruins, Tibet Museum, Yaowang Mountain, and the Drigung Kagyu Monastery Complex. Main shopping areas include Barkhor Street, Yutuo Road Pedestrian Street, and Lhasa Department Store.

Gastronomic Highlights:
Start your morning like a local with a hearty bowl of Tibetan noodles and a cup of sweet tea — a beloved breakfast pairing in Lhasa. As you stroll the streets, you’ll find cold noodle (liangfen) stalls every few steps. Whether thick or thin, white or yellow, liangfen is typically served with garlic, chili, and other condiments — a simple yet satisfying meal.

Tibetans also enjoy butter tea, especially in the early morning. Made from tea leaves, yak butter, and salt, this traditional drink is both nourishing and hydrating. Another staple is tsampa, a traditional Tibetan food made from roasted barley flour mixed with butter tea. Barley (specifically highland barley) is the primary grain of the Tibetan Plateau and a key component of the Tibetan diet.

Potala Palace
Located on Marpo Ri (Red Hill) in the northwest of central Lhasa, capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region, the Potala Palace is a monumental palace-fortress complex. Originally constructed by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century to welcome his brides, Princess Bhrikuti of Nepal and Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty, the palace was later rebuilt in the 17th century and served as the winter residence for successive religious leaders. It became the political and religious center of the theocratic government of Tibet, and remains one of the most iconic and sacred landmarks in Tibet.

With architectural influences from Tibetan, Tang Chinese, Nepalese, and Indian styles, the Potala Palace is not only a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism but also a cultural and historical treasure. It is the highest and largest palace structure in the world. The original structure dates back to the 7th century during the relocation of the Tibetan capital to Lhasa, and the palace was vastly expanded in the 17th century into the form we see today, comprising the White Palace and the Red Palace.

The White Palace served administrative purposes, while the Red Palace is devoted to religious functions. Even today, around 80 monks still reside within the palace. During the pilgrimage and touring process, visitors often encounter monks sweeping the floors or chanting scriptures in the chapels. Contrary to the popular image of a “museum full of treasures,” the Potala Palace feels much more like a giant living monastery — which, in fact, it is. It houses countless Buddhist scriptures, sacred statues, and stupas containing the remains of revered lamas and incarnate Buddhas.

The palace draws numerous Tibetan pilgrims, many of whom perform full-body prostrations and recite mantras. They chant with their lips, make symbolic gestures with their hands, and use prayer beads or spin prayer wheels. Their bodies often touch the walls, pillars, and floors in an act of reverence and devotion, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere throughout the sacred halls.

Jokhang Temple
The Jokhang Temple is one of the most revered religious sites in Tibet and across the Tibetan Buddhist world. It holds supreme religious significance and enjoys international recognition.

Spiritual Heart of Tibetan Buddhism
Jokhang is regarded as the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism. Built during the time of the Tibetan Empire under Songtsen Gampo, it symbolizes the arrival and flourishing of Buddhism in Tibet and has become one of the most sacred temples in the region.

Center for Teachings and Practice
As one of the religious academies of Tibetan Buddhism, the Jokhang Temple plays a key role in the transmission of Buddhist teachings. Monks study sacred texts, Buddhist philosophy, and engage in daily rituals, education, and monastic practices.

Site of Pilgrimage and Devotion
The temple draws countless pilgrims from Tibet and beyond. Devotees offer incense, circumambulate the temple, prostrate themselves before Buddha statues, and recite sutras, seeking peace, wisdom, and spiritual strength.
In 1994, UNESCO listed Jokhang Temple as a World Cultural Heritage Site, emphasizing its artistic, architectural, and religious value, and its importance to humanity’s cultural heritage.

Barkhor Street (also known as Bakuo Street)
Barkhor Street is the ancient heart of Lhasa, offering a glimpse into the daily blend of religious devotion and vibrant street life. It is a spiritual and cultural microcosm of the entire Tibetan region. Pilgrims from across Tibet gather here, following the kora route (pilgrimage circuit) around Jokhang Temple, while traders and locals fill the alleys with the hum of commerce and tradition.

Walking through Barkhor feels like stepping into a timeless world full of color and meaning. It’s not just a market — it’s a cultural and spiritual stage where Tibetan identity is on full display.

A Shopper’s Paradise
Barkhor Street is packed with shops and stalls selling all kinds of Tibetan Buddhist items, traditional clothing, and local handicrafts. You’ll find hand-painted thangka scrolls, bronze ornaments, prayer wheels, and unique ethnic apparel — making this street a true haven for culture lovers and souvenir hunters.

Gastronomic Adventure
This area is also a perfect place to sample authentic Tibetan cuisine. Try local snacks like butter tea, barley wine, and aromatic Tibetan pastries — a perfect way to begin your culinary journey through the region.

Cultural Experience
Beyond shopping, Barkhor is a living museum of Tibetan Buddhism. Along the path, you’ll discover small shrines, ancient monasteries, and prayer walls — all nestled between elegant, traditional Tibetan buildings. The rich religious atmosphere and strong sense of tradition make it one of the most meaningful stops in Lhasa.

Yamdrok Lake
In Tibetan, Yamdrok Lake means “Swan Lake.” It is one of the three sacred lakes of Tibet and also the largest freshwater lake in the region. The lake is dotted with more than a dozen small islands, and its crystal-clear turquoise waters, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes, create a picture-perfect scene.

Yamdrok is a high-altitude barrier lake, believed to have formed millions of years ago due to glacial mudslides blocking a river. Its shape is highly irregular, with many branches and winding shorelines. It is connected to three smaller lakes — Kongmu Co, Chen Co, and Gyü Co.

Historically, Yamdrok was an outflowing lake, with all four lakes forming one body of water that drained into the Yarlung Tsangpo River via the Moqu River. However, over time the water level receded, turning it into an inland lake with separated bodies, whose surface levels now differ by no more than 6.5 meters.

The lake’s surface is like a mirror of turquoise ripples, surrounded by lush grasslands that make it a rich highland pasture. The local Tibetans praise Yamdrok Lake in folk songs, singing:
“A paradise in the heavens, Yamdrok on earth. Stars in the sky, cattle and sheep by the lake.”

In winter, the lake freezes over, resembling a maiden dressed in white resting in the arms of the Himalayas. In late spring and early summer, herders transport their livestock to the islands, where animals graze freely. Summer brings thriving grasslands, the perfect time for grazing. In early winter, herders and livestock return to the lake’s shore.

Yamdrok is also a bountiful natural “fish treasury.” Its waters are rich in plankton and fish food. Each summer, fish swim from the deep waters into shallow areas to spawn and feed, so plentiful that one could almost catch them by hand. As many Tibetans traditionally do not eat fish, the lake has become a sanctuary for aquatic life, especially for highland naked carp, which is known for its tender and delicate flavor. The lake is estimated to hold over 800 million kilograms of fish, earning it the name:
“Tibet’s Fish Treasury.”

Karola Glacier
The Karola Glacier is located on the border of Langkazi County and Gyangzê County in southern Tibet, approximately 71 kilometers from Gyangzê town. It is one of Tibet’s three major continental glaciers and the eastern source of the Nyangchu River, situated close to Yamdrok Lake. The scenery beneath its glacier tongue is particularly breathtaking.

As a continental glacier, Karola is renowned for its massive glacial tongue, deep-blue ice lake, and the stunning backdrop of surrounding snow-capped peaks. Visitors are often awe-struck by the glacier’s grandeur and the sheer power of nature’s artistry.

Due to its high altitude, travelers should be mindful of potential altitude sickness and take appropriate precautions. Additionally, because weather conditions can affect access and safety, it is strongly recommended to check the latest weather forecasts and park information before visiting.

Saga County: An Ecological Haven Between the Gangdise and Himalayas

Saga County, located in the northwest of Shigatse, Tibet, lies between the Gangdise and Himalayan mountain ranges, with terrain sloping from north to east. The region features a unique plateau landscape of mountains, plains, and valleys. It is home to diverse wildlife, including wild yaks, Tibetan antelopes, Tibetan foxes, and black-necked cranes. Rich in mineral resources like iron, chromium, phosphorus, and marble, Saga serves as a vital transit point to sacred sites such as Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, blending natural beauty with spiritual significance.​

Mount Kailash (Kangrinboqe): Sacred Center of the World Recognized by Four Major Religions
Mount Kailash, also known as Mount Sumeru, is located in Pulan County, Ngari Prefecture, within the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. With an elevation of 6,656 meters, it stands as the main peak of the Gangdise Mountain Range. It is one of the Four Great Sacred Mountains in Tibetan Buddhism and is revered across Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, Bon (Tibet’s native faith), and Jainism as the spiritual center of the world.

Together with the nearby sacred lake Mapam Yumco (Lake Manasarovar) to its south, the mountain forms the legendary duo of “Holy Mountain and Sacred Lake.” It is also the source of four major rivers of Asia: the Lion Spring River (Indus), Peacock River (Sutlej), Horse Spring River (Brahmaputra), and Elephant Spring River (Karnali/Ghaghara).

A Pyramid-Shaped Divine Peak That Radiates Light
Mount Kailash features four sharply defined and symmetrical faces, resembling both a pyramid and a Buddhist stupa. Its snow-covered summit glows with an extraordinary brilliance under sunlight, captivating all who see it. Although not the tallest mountain in the region, it is the only peak permanently covered in snow and remains unclimbed to this day, earning it the title of “the ultimate virgin peak.”

Its distinctive form and sacred reputation set it apart from the surrounding mountains, inspiring awe and religious devotion. In Tibetan Buddhism, Mount Kailash is traditionally identified as Mount Sumeru, the mythical center of the universe. According to the Dictionary of Buddhist Terms, “Sumeru is the central mountain of a small world.”

Five Monasteries, Endless Legends
Surrounding Mount Kailash are five historic monasteries, each with legendary stories and spiritual significance:Nyenchentang Monastery – the starting point of the kora (pilgrimage circuit)、Zhirepu Monastery、Songchu Monastery、Jangzha Monastery、Sailong Monastery

These temples preserve ancient carvings, statues, murals, and religious artifacts, serving as essential stops on the sacred pilgrimage path around the mountain.

The World’s Spiritual Heart Across Religions
In Hinduism, the mountain is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, the most powerful of the three principal deities. The upper reaches of the Ganges and Indus Rivers also originate here, reinforcing its mythic and sacred status. Thousands of Indian pilgrims make the arduous journey each year to pay homage.

In Bon tradition, predating Tibetan Buddhism, Mount Kailash was known as the “Mountain of Nine Swastikas,” and it was believed to house 360 deities. In Jainism, the mountain is called Ashtapada, where the first Tirthankara achieved liberation. In Buddhist tantric teachings, the mountain represents the Palace of Demchok (Chakrasamvara), and the surrounding peaks and rivers are said to embody the structure of a sacred mandala.

Throughout history, great masters, lamas, and spiritual practitioners from across Asia have come here for meditation and teaching, making Kailash one of the most blessed sites in the Himalayan region.

Lake Manasarovar: The “Eternal Jade Lake” in the Sky – A Sacred and Mystical Destination in Tibet
Lake Manasarovar (Tibetan: Mapam Yumco), meaning “The Eternal and Unchanging Jade Lake” in Tibetan, is located in Pulan County, Ngari Prefecture, in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. It is a mysterious and sacred lake, known not only for its breathtaking natural beauty but also as a spiritual refuge for the soul. Revered as the “Heavenly Lake,” it holds deep religious significance and has become a symbol of purity, tranquility, and spiritual awakening.

Surrounded by Snow Mountains and Grasslands – A Photographer’s and Explorer’s Paradise
Encircled by majestic snow-capped peaks and vast grasslands, Lake Manasarovar offers diverse natural landscapes and rich biodiversity. It is home to abundant wildlife and pristine habitats. On the grassy shores, you’ll often see herds of yaks and sheep grazing peacefully, painting a serene pastoral scene that reflects harmony between nature and tradition.

The lake’s scenery changes beautifully with the seasons and time of day, making it a dream destination for photographers, trekkers, and adventurers seeking inspiration and solitude.

One of the Most Sacred Lakes in Tibetan Buddhism
In Tibetan Buddhism, Lake Manasarovar is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites. Every year, thousands of devoted pilgrims from Tibet, India, Nepal, and around the world journey to the lake to perform “kora” (circumambulation)—walking around the lake’s perimeter to pray for peace, blessings, and spiritual merit.

The lake is also renowned as the clearest and most transparent freshwater lake in China, based on official measurements.

Eight Sacred Monasteries Surrounding the Lake
Eight Buddhist monasteries are strategically located around Lake Manasarovar, positioned in eight cardinal directions, forming a spiritual mandala that enhances the lake’s religious importance:East: Seralung Monastery (Drikung Kagyu tradition)、Southeast: Niego Monastery (Sakya tradition)、South: Chugu Monastery (Gelug tradition)、Southwest: Koju Monastery (Bhutanese Karma Kagyu)、Northwest: Kajie Monastery, built on caves where 500 arhats practiced meditation、West: Qiwu Monastery、North: Langna Monastery (Bhutanese Karma Kagyu)、Northeast: Benri Monastery (Gelug tradition)

Each monastery holds unique architecture, legends, and rituals, preserving the spiritual heritage of the lake and offering refuge for meditative retreat and religious exploration.

【Jiemayangzong Glacier】: A Sacred Glacier near Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar
Jiemayangzong Glacier is located in Zhongba County, Tibet, near the border with Pulan County, at an elevation of 5,590 meters. What makes this glacier truly unique is its close proximity to the sacred Mount Kailash and the holy Lake Manasarovar, forming a spectacular triangle of natural and spiritual wonders in western Tibet.

In Tibetan, “Jie Ma” means “holy sand”, and “Yangzong” refers to “Yungdrung”, the symbol of the ancient Bon religion. The glacier’s name vividly reflects the glacial moraine formations left behind by the retreating glaciers that once fed the upper reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, making it a symbolic intersection of geology and spirituality.

Locals call this crystal-clear, shimmering glacier “Jiemayangzong Glacier,” while the meltwater that flows from it forms a river known as Jiemayangzong Qu. The glacier flows between two peaks, stretching 4–5 kilometers long and approximately 1 kilometer wide. Its icy forms are diverse and dramatic, slowly melting into hundreds of braided streams, forming a network of glacial rivulets.

About 10 kilometers downstream, these streams converge into a major river, which later joins the Kubi Qu to become the Maquan River — recognized as a principal source of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, one of Asia’s greatest waterways.

Gyawu La Pass: The World’s Only Viewpoint of Five 8000m Himalayan Peaks
Gyawu La Pass, at an altitude of 5,210 meters, is a must-visit stop on the way from Dingri County to Mount Everest Base Camp. It features the only viewing platform in the world where you can see five Himalayan peaks over 8,000 meters in one panorama: Makalu, Lhotse, Everest, Cho Oyu, and Shishapangma.

At sunrise, the pass becomes a magical scene as the golden light gradually illuminates the snow-covered peaks, creating the famous “Golden Summit Glow” (日照金山). In Chinese culture, it’s said that “those who witness the golden summit will be blessed with good fortune.” Locals believe the mountains can hear your wishes, making this a deeply spiritual moment.

There are two Everest viewing platforms at Gyawu La Pass, with the main one located at the mountaintop, offering a sweeping, unobstructed view of the Himalayan range. On a clear day, the endless peaks stretch across the horizon, a breathtaking sight that fills travelers with awe and hope.

One traveler shared: “Today was another day of being overwhelmed by nature. I felt like offering my soul to these sacred peaks for a moment. Here’s my photo of the golden sunrise — may your wishes come true too.”

Mount Everest: The Roof of the World, a Sacred Destination for Dreamers and Adventurers
On the vast expanse of our planet, there stands a peak that rises above the clouds and dominates all others — Mount Everest, known as “the Roof of the World.” As the highest mountain on Earth, Everest is more than just a geographical marvel — it is a sacred destination in the hearts of explorers, climbers, and dreamers around the globe. Its towering majesty and enigmatic aura continue to captivate countless souls.

Mount Everest’s grandeur lies not only in its staggering elevation of 8,848.86 meters (snow surface) and 8,844.43 meters (rock surface), but also in its awe-inspiring glaciers, sharp ridges, and extreme weather conditions. The summit is eternally snow-covered, forming a breathtaking ice world where the sunlight casts dazzling reflections, making the peak sparkle like a diamond suspended between heaven and earth. By nightfall, under the starlit sky, Everest transforms into a scene of surreal beauty — as if the entire universe revolves around it.

Climbing Everest, however, is not for the faint-hearted. The conditions are severe: frigid winds, heavy snow, and low oxygen levels pose immense challenges to climbers’ physical endurance and mental willpower. Yet, it is these very hardships that draw adventurers from around the world, determined to conquer the world’s highest summit. Step by step, they ascend with unshakable faith, ultimately reaching the top and tasting an unparalleled sense of glory and pride.

Mount Everest is not just a mountain — it is a symbol of humanity’s unyielding pursuit of greatness. It reminds us that through courage, persistence, and a fearless spirit, we can all strive for higher goals and achieve our dreams.

In Tibetan, “Qomolangma” means “Mother of the Earth.” As the main peak of the Himalayas, Everest lies on the border between China and Nepal, making it not only a natural wonder but also a spiritual and ecological landmark. The area experiences intense winds, especially in winter when blizzards are frequent. Despite the harsh climate, the Everest region is home to a unique and fragile ecosystem, sheltering a variety of rare plants and animals. However, due to climate change, glacier retreat, and increased human activity, its ecological balance faces significant challenges.

Travelers often visit Everest Base Camp (EBC) to witness the beauty of the mountain up close. The best time to photograph Everest is at sunrise or within two hours before sunset, when golden sunlight illuminates the snow-capped peak — a moment locals call “Golden Mountain Glow.”

As one visitor shared:
“I gazed at the stars at 2 a.m., standing at the foot of Mount Everest at 8,848 meters in -5°C. No photo could ever match what I saw with my own eyes. It was the most romantic thing I’ve ever done.”

In that fleeting, frozen silence, all worldly worries seem to melt away. Staring at the sparkling stars against the deep blue sky, you may feel a surge of reverence — for nature, for life, and for your inner calling.

Tashilhunpo Monastery
Tashilhunpo Monastery, meaning “Auspicious Sumeru” in Tibetan, is located on the hillside of Mt. Niser in Shigatse, Tibet. As one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, it was founded in 1447 during the 12th year of the Ming Dynasty’s Zhengtong reign. The monastery covers an area of 150,000 square meters, with 57 monk residences and a total of over 3,600 rooms and halls.

The monastery’s architecture seamlessly blends traditional Tibetan design with Buddhist symbolism, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and cultural depth. It is a place where the sacred artistry of Tibetan Buddhism is embodied through the solemn grandeur of its stupas and religious halls. Among its most remarkable features is the world’s tallest gilded bronze statue of Jampa (Maitreya Buddha), standing at 26.2 meters. It is said to have taken 110 craftsmen four years to complete, using vast amounts of gold and precious gems — a testament to its extraordinary religious and artistic significance.

Built along the slope of the mountain, the entire monastery complex is interconnected by a maze of halls and alleys. From a distance, the white walls, black-framed windows, golden rooftops, and red facades layer upon one another with remarkable harmony and majesty.

Visitors often describe Tashilhunpo Monastery like this:

“It’s absolutely the most authentic and soulful monastery I visited in Tibet. Although it may not be as famous as the Potala Palace or Jokhang Temple, it also doesn’t feel as commercial or touristy. There were hardly any tourists inside — instead, the monastery felt alive, connected to several surrounding villages. People moving around were monks or local residents.

In March and April, the weather is unpredictable. On one side, peach and plum blossoms are in full bloom; on the other, snow falls like feathers. The vermilion monastery walls appear even more vivid under a blanket of snow. From afar, you can hear the slow tolling of a bell, and hundreds of doves swirl past the golden rooftops like a storm — it truly feels like receiving a divine message.”

A journey through the sacred light of history, visiting Tashilhunpo Monastery not only allows you to witness its majestic architecture and profound cultural heritage, but also invites you to experience the hospitality and sincerity of the Tibetan people.

The guide sees you off at the airport — time flies as you begin your journey home. With your heart full of memories and your soul immersed in nature’s embrace, the trip may be over, but the vitality and beauty of life continue within you. You’re always welcome back in Lhasa. Tashi Delek!