13-Day Northern Ngari Grand Circuit Tour｜Explore Western Tibet’s Remote Wilderness & Sacred Peaks

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.

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.

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 Kailash
Located in the Ngari region of Tibet, Mount Kailash (alt. 6,638m) is revered as the center of the world by four major religions: Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, Bon, and Jainism. It is the main peak of the Gangdise Mountain range, with an actual altitude of 6,714 meters. The mountain is composed of Neogene conglomerate rock and is renowned for its symmetrical, pyramid-like cone shape with steep, sheer faces. Tibetan locals describe it as resembling the “handle of a millstone.”

The southern face is particularly iconic—its giant vertical glacial groove intersects with a horizontal rock layer, forming the sacred swastika pattern (卍), a Buddhist symbol of eternal power, good fortune, and divine protection. This natural symbol makes Mount Kailash a powerful spiritual icon.

The Significance of Circumambulation (Kora):
There are two main pilgrimage routes:

Outer Kora (~54 km): suitable for most pilgrims.

Inner Kora: a more challenging and sacred route, only accessible after completing the Outer Kora 13 times.

For Tibetan Buddhists, making a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash is often considered the ultimate spiritual aspiration of a lifetime. They believe:

Completing one Kora can cleanse all sins of a lifetime.

Completing ten Koras can prevent suffering in 500 future reincarnations.

Completing a hundred Koras grants ascension to the celestial realms and spiritual enlightenment.

Mount Kailash remains an unclimbed peak. No one has ever reached its summit, nor dared to attempt it, out of reverence for its sacred status as the spiritual axis of the world.

Lake Manasarovar
Known in Tibetan as the “Eternal Jade Lake,” Lake Manasarovar is a sacred freshwater lake located in Burang County, Ngari Prefecture of Tibet. Surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks and expansive grasslands, it is not only a natural treasure but also a spiritual sanctuary, often referred to as “The Lake from Heaven.”

Natural Scenery:
The area is a paradise for photographers and adventurers. Snow mountains reflect in the crystal-clear waters, while herds of yaks and sheep graze peacefully along the grassy shores, composing a tranquil pastoral scene in the heart of the Tibetan Plateau.

Religious Significance:
Lake Manasarovar holds supreme religious value in Tibetan Buddhism. Thousands of pilgrims visit each year to perform the sacred lake circumambulation (Kora), praying for peace, health, and blessings. Many believe that walking around the lake purifies one’s soul and removes karma, making it a soulful retreat for those seeking spiritual renewal.

Zanda Earth Forest (Zhada Earth Forest)
Located in the Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, China, the Zanda Earth Forest is the world’s most extensive and well-preserved example of Tertiary-period fluvial and lacustrine sediment formations shaped by erosion. This unique landform is hailed as one of Tibet’s most extraordinary geological wonders.

A Geological Marvel
Geologically known as “fluvio-lacustrine formations,” the Zanda Earth Forest was created over millions of years by tectonic uplift, sedimentation, and natural erosion. During the Himalayan orogeny, lake basins in this area rose and dried up, leaving exposed sediment layers. Wind and water gradually sculpted these layers into the towering, forest-like formations we see today.

According to local legend, this land was once submerged beneath a vast inland sea. Over centuries, the peaks of the Earth Forest emerged from the depths, like natural cathedrals rising from the earth.

The “earth trees” of the forest vary in height, some towering tens of meters, with forms so varied and surreal they resemble a natural sandstone sculpture garden. Under sunlight, the forest shimmers in hues of ochre, gold, and crimson — a paradise for photographers and geology enthusiasts.

Cultural and Historical Significance
Zanda Earth Forest is not only a geological spectacle, but also a living museum of ancient civilization. Scattered throughout the region are historical relics, including ancient Guge Kingdom ruins, cave temples, and Buddhist art. These relics reflect thousands of years of Tibetan heritage, blending nature with culture in a uniquely spiritual landscape.

Tholing Monastery
Tholing Monastery, meaning “Flying Monastery” in Tibetan, is located in Zanda County, Ngari Prefecture. Once the spiritual center of the Guge Kingdom, Tholing is one of the most historically and artistically significant monasteries in western Tibet.

Sacred Art and Inner Peace
The monastery is home to exquisite murals and sculptures, many dating back over a thousand years. These artworks depict scenes from the life of Buddha, bodhisattvas, and ancient Tibetan mythology, reflecting the fusion of Tibetan, Indian, and Nepali artistic styles.

Walking through its halls is more than just a cultural tour — it’s a journey inward. Tholing Monastery offers a sacred space for introspection, meditation, and spiritual discovery. The quiet serenity of the monastery invites travelers to pause, reflect, and reconnect with their inner self.

Guge Kingdom: The Mysterious Ancient Kingdom That Vanished Overnight

The Guge Kingdom traces its origins to the ancient Zhangzhung civilization and was established in the 9th century after the collapse of the Tibetan Empire in western Tibet’s Ngari region. Often referred to as “the mysterious ancient kingdom that vanished overnight,” it stands as a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore millennia-old civilizations. The remaining ruins attest to its historical presence. The region’s abundant sunlight, thin air, and dry, windy climate have preserved the remnants of the Guge Kingdom and fostered the formation of the Zhada Earth Forest, a geological marvel. Standing before the ruins, one can almost envision its former glory. Today, beyond the crumbling walls, it leaves us with endless imagination and unsolved mysteries. As one traveler noted: “After witnessing snow-capped mountains and lakes along the Ngari loop, this site marks a shift in aesthetic—from natural landscapes to desolate, mysterious historical relics. I particularly favor the exotic and poignant atmosphere of the Zhada Earth Forest where the Guge Kingdom once stood.”

Biereze Co is a stunning plateau lake with crystal-clear blue waters, surrounded by vast grasslands and rolling mountain ranges. Located right beside National Highway 317 on the way to Gaize, it’s a perfect spot for travelers to rest and enjoy breathtaking views.

Tangra Yumco is the largest sacred lake worshipped by the ancient followers of the Bon religion and is the fourth-largest lake in Tibet. With a depth of over 210 meters, it is the deepest known lake in the region. When sunlight breaks through the clouds and hits the lake’s surface, the water shimmers with ever-changing hues.
Located at a high altitude with virtually no light pollution, Tangra Yumco is known as the “closest place to the stars” and one of the top stargazing destinations on the “Third Pole.” The best time to observe the stars is from September to October.
Due to the high elevation and strong UV radiation, visitors should bring altitude sickness medication, oxygen tanks, and sun protection. Choose clear, moonless nights for optimal stargazing.

Zhari Namco
Zhari Namco is a nationally protected wetland area surrounded by lush grasslands. It serves as a vital habitat for wild Tibetan antelopes, kiangs, and other wildlife. To preserve the natural ecosystem, most of the original buildings and settlements have been removed, leaving only a few nomadic herders. This saline lake displays a gradient of blue shades—from sapphire to icy blue—depending on the sunlight angle, giving an illusion of being by the sea. Make sure to bring warm, windproof clothing, especially a thermal hat, as the lakeside winds can be harsh and may trigger altitude sickness or headaches.

Siling Co Lake
Also known as Qilin Lake or Selin Tso, Siling Co is the largest lake in Tibet and the second-largest saltwater lake in China. It is a tectonic lake formed during the uplift of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Many visitors say, “Among all the lakes in Tibet, Siling Co most resembles the ocean.” Step down from the viewing platform to endless grasslands, where mid-August meadows meet the brilliant blue waters.

Namtso Lake
Namtso, meaning “Heavenly Lake” in Tibetan, is the third-largest saltwater lake in China and the highest-altitude saltwater lake in the world. It is one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes, nestled alongside the holy mountain Nyenchen Tanglha, forming a majestic harmony between mountain and water.

According to ancient Tibetan mythology, Nyenchen Tanglha and Namtso are eternal lovers — a pair of devoted soulmates. Their romantic legend has been passed down through generations and adds a layer of poetic charm to the landscape.

Namtso is famed for its ever-changing colors — at times a deep sapphire blue, at others a vivid emerald green — making it feel like a living canvas painted by nature. At nightfall, the reflection of the starry sky upon the lake surface creates a mystical and awe-inspiring scene that invites quiet contemplation.

Beyond its breathtaking views, Namtso is home to a rich and diverse ecosystem. This sacred area is a sanctuary for many rare species. You might catch a glimpse of the world’s largest population of black-necked cranes, along with Tibetan antelopes, snow leopards, and other endangered wildlife that thrive in this untouched land.

One of Namtso’s most iconic landmarks is the Elephant Gate of the Sacred Elephant Rock, one of northern Tibet’s most famous natural formations. This massive stone arch, carved by nature and standing tall amid the snowy peaks, appears like a divine elephant guarding the sacred land when bathed in sunlight — hence its name.

Your journey to Namtso promises a magical encounter with nature and wildlife. You’ll also have the chance to experience local traditions: join Tibetan herders in tending livestock or fetching water, and even camp under the stars by the lakeside for a romantic and unforgettable night.

Namtso offers not just spectacular natural beauty, but also deep cultural charm — a destination that fulfills every traveler’s dream.

On clear days, the lake is so stunning that no camera can fully capture its grandeur. The temperature is comfortable — a light jacket will suffice — but strong sun protection is essential, as UV rays are intense at this altitude.

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!