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TIBET GROUP TOUR · 13 DAYS

13 Days Chengdu Nyingchi Peach Blossom EBC Xining Train Tour

ROUTEChengdu - Nyingchi -Lhasa - Yamdrok - EBC - Xinnig - Chengdu

Overview

The 13-Day Chengdu, Nyingchi Peach Blossom, Everest Base Camp & Qinghai-Tibet Railway Expedition is an exclusive seasonal spring journey designed for travelers seeking to experience Tibet's lush, romantic, and emerald landscapes before venturing into the high Himalayas.

Departing from Chengdu, fly directly into the alpine valleys of Nyingchi—often called the "Switzerland of Tibet"—where centuries-old wild peach trees bloom in soft pink hues against snow-draped peaks, traditional villages, and turquoise rivers. Journey along the legendary Sichuan-Tibet Highway through Bomi, Guxiang Lake, Lulang Forest, and the majestic Midui or Laigu Glaciers before reaching the holy city of Lhasa. Here, explore Tibet's spiritual anchors—the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple—before crossing high Himalayan passes to stand face-to-face with the North Face of Mount Everest (5,200m). Conclude your expedition with an iconic trans-plateau journey aboard the world's highest train—the Qinghai-Tibet Railway—back to Xining.

✓ Tibet travel permits support✓ Oxygen-equipped vehicle

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

Why You’ll Love This Trip

  • Spring Wild Peach Blossoms: Marvel at thousands of ancient, blooming peach trees framing snow-capped peaks in Mainling, Bomi, and Laru Village.
  • Glaciers & Alpine Lakes: Explore Midui or Laigu Glacier and take in the serene beauty of Guxiang Lake, Ranwu Lake, and emerald Basum Tso.
  • Lulang Forest Panorama: Drive through dense alpine pine forests, rolling meadows, and mist-shrouded valleys along the G318 Sichuan-Tibet Highway.
  • Lhasa Spiritual Treasures: Tour the iconic Potala Palace, worship at Jokhang Temple, and experience authentic local tea culture along Barkhor Street.
  • Mount Everest Base Camp: Witness unforgettable sunset and sunrise light over the towering North Face of Mt. Everest (5,200m).
  • Qinghai-Tibet Railway Experience: Ride the legendary high-altitude train across the vast Changtang grassland and mountain ranges to Xining.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

DAY 1Arrive in Chengdu & Hotel Check-in near Tianfu Airport

Distance: Airport hotel transfer | Meals: Self-arranged | Accommodation: Hotel near Chengdu Tianfu International Airport

Welcome to Chengdu, the vibrant capital of Sichuan Province and the gateway to Tibet! Upon arrival at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU), collect your luggage and check into your conveniently located airport hotel.

Today is a designated arrivals and rest day with no group activities planned. Take this time to relax after your flight and prepare for your early morning flight into eastern Tibet tomorrow.

CHIBET Travel Advice: Keep your original Passport and Tibet Travel Permit securely stored in your hand luggage for airport security checks.

DAY 2Fly from Chengdu to Nyingchi & Visit Mainling Peach Blossom Village

Distance: 2-hour flight, followed by local drives | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Hotel in Nyingchi (2,900m)

Begin your Tibetan journey flying into eastern Tibet's lush, green valleys.

Board your morning flight from Chengdu Tianfu Airport to Nyingchi Mainling Airport (LZY). As the aircraft descends, look out the window to view deep river gorges, forested ridges, and dramatic snow-capped peaks. Your local Tibetan guide will warmly welcome you at the exit with a traditional white Hada (ceremonial scarf).

Drive to a renowned peach blossom village in Mainling County. Unlike cultivated orchards, these ancient wild peach trees grow freely around traditional Tibetan farmhouses, emerald green barley fields, and stone walls. Walk gently along village paths, taking in the contrast between delicate pink blossoms and towering snowy peaks.

After the tour, transfer to downtown Nyingchi for hotel check-in. At an altitude of just 2,900 meters, Nyingchi offers the ideal gentle start for high-altitude acclimatization.

CHIBET Travel Advice: Nyingchi mornings and evenings are cool; keep a warm fleece or jacket handy while walking through the villages.

DAY 3Nyingchi to Bomi via Tongmai, Guxiang Lake & Bomi Peach Valley

Distance: 230 km (5–6 hrs driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Hotel in Bomi (2,700m)

Embark on a scenic drive along the celebrated G318 Sichuan-Tibet Highway into the heart of the peach blossom country.

Travel east along the winding Parlung Tsangpo River. Cross through Tongmai, historically famous as a rugged section of the Sichuan-Tibet route, now easily traversed via modern tunnels and suspension bridges. Stop at Guxiang Lake, a serene glacier-fed lake where mountain forests and passing sky mirror clearly on the calm water.

Enter the world-famous Bomi Peach Blossom Valley, recognized as one of the longest and largest peach blossom corridors in China. Stroll through traditional local villages, capturing photos of historic wooden houses framed by vast sweeps of spring blooms and glaciers.

CHIBET Travel Advice: Wear comfortable walking shoes and stay on established paths to respect local villagers' private farmland.

DAY 4Bomi to Midui or Laigu Glacier & Ranwu Lake

Distance: 260–340 km (7–9 hrs driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Hotel in Bomi

Explore eastern Tibet's dramatic glacier landscapes and spectacular high-alpine lakes.

Depart early toward Ranwu. Depending on seasonal road, weather, and safety conditions, your group will explore either Midui Glacier or Laigu Glacier:

  • Midui Glacier: Famous for its dramatic ice tongues cascading down into a verdant forest zone beside a traditional Tibetan village.
  • Laigu Glacier: A vast, rugged glacier complex where colossal walls of blue ice rise directly above meltwater lakes.

Continue to Ranwu Lake, a glacier-fed body of water flanked by dense forests and rugged peaks. Enjoy scenic walks along the shoreline as the lake's color shifts from deep turquoise to pale silver depending on the mountain light. Return to Bomi in the evening.

CHIBET Travel Advice: Glacier walking trails can be icy and uneven; wear shoes with strong rubber traction.

DAY 5Bomi to Lulang via Galang Lake & Lulang Forest

Distance: 170 km (4–5 hrs driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Hotel in Lulang (3,300m)

Drive west into the fairy-tale mountain pastures and dense alpine woodlands of Lulang.

Visit hidden Galang Lake near Bomi, nestled quietly among dark green spruce forests and traditional Tibetan farmsteads.

Rejoin the G318 Highway toward Lulang Forest. Ascend to the main viewing decks to overlook vast expanses of virgin pine and fir forests, alpine meadows, and drifting mountain mist. Arrive in Lulang International Tourism Town, a Swiss-style alpine village, for check-in.

CHIBET Travel Advice: Lulang is famous for its misty, cool climate. Bring a windbreaker and light rain jacket.

DAY 6Lulang to Lhasa via Basum Tso & Laru Village

Distance: 450 km (7–8 hrs driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa (3,650m)

Travel from eastern Tibet's green valleys toward the sunlit Tibetan plateau and sacred capital of Lhasa.

Visit Basum Tso, a sacred 5A-rated alpine lake known for its crystal-clear emerald water. Take a short walk across the floating bridge to visit the historical 1,500-year-old Tsozong Monastery on the central island.

Stop at Laru Village in Gongbo'gyamda County, where higher-elevation peach trees bloom slightly later in the season. Continue along the smooth Lhasa-Nyingchi Expressway as the landscape transitions into broad high-plateau river valleys, arriving in Lhasa by late afternoon.

CHIBET Travel Advice: As you gain elevation in Lhasa, keep activity relaxed, drink plenty of water, and get a good night's rest.

DAY 7Lhasa Cultural Highlights: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street

Distance: 4 km | Meals: Breakfast, Tibetan Sweet Tea, Tibetan Welcome Dinner | Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa

Immerse yourself in the living spiritual history and cultural treasures of the holy city of Lhasa.

Tour the magnificent Potala Palace, former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. Climb the grand stone stairways to explore the administrative halls of the White Palace and the sacred chapels and gilded stupas of the Red Palace.

Visit Jokhang Temple, the ultimate pilgrimage destination in Tibet, housing the sacred Jowo Shakyamuni Buddha statue. Step outside into Barkhor Street to walk alongside devout pilgrims making prayer cycles around the temple.

Authentic Local Experiences:

  • Tibetan Sweet Tea Time: Relax at a bustling traditional teahouse, sipping sweet tea while mingling with local residents.
  • Traditional Costume Photoshoot: Wear authentic Tibetan attire complete with traditional styling, guided by a professional photographer along Barkhor's historic alleys.
  • Tibetan Welcome Dinner: Gather for a festive Tibetan Welcome Dinner featuring authentic local cuisine and hospitality.

CHIBET Travel Notice: Potala Palace entrance times are strictly regulated by government daily time slots; sightseeing order may be adjusted accordingly.

DAY 8Lhasa to Shigatse via Yamdrok Lake & Karola Glacier

Distance: 360 km (8 hrs driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Hotel in Shigatse (3,840m)

Begin your exciting overland trip across southern Tibet toward the high Himalayas.

Ascend to Gampala Pass (4,900m) for a breathtaking panorama of turquoise Yamdrok Lake winding around barren mountain ridges. Descend to the shores to take photos alongside white yaks and Tibetan mastiffs.

Drive to Karola Glacier to witness massive ice walls hanging over the roadside. Continue across the fertile agricultural basin of Gyantse to arrive in Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest city.

CHIBET Travel Advice: High pass winds can be cold. Keep a warm down jacket, gloves, and beanie in your daypack.

DAY 9Shigatse to Everest Base Camp via Gyatso La & Gawula Pass

Distance: 340 km (8 hrs driving) | Meals: Breakfast, Tibetan Yak Hotpot | Accommodation: EBC Tent Guesthouse / Vienna International Hotel / Rongbuk Monastery Hotel (5,200m)

Journey into Mount Everest National Nature Reserve for an unforgettable night at the foot of the world's highest peak.

Four Iconic Views of Mount Everest:

  1. Gyatso La Pass (5,280m): Capture your first distant view of Everest rising behind mountain ridges.
  2. Gawula Pass (5,198m): Stand at the world-famous viewpoint overlooking five 8,000-meter Himalayan giants: Makalu, Lhotse, Everest, Cho Oyu, and Shishapangma.
  3. The Everest Highway: Drive down winding mountain switchbacks as Everest's North Face grows larger on the horizon.
  4. Everest Base Camp (5,200m): Arrive at EBC to watch golden sunset light illuminate the summit wall, followed by brilliant starlight over the mountain peak.
DAY 10Everest Sunrise & Return Drive to Shigatse

Distance: 340 km (8 hrs driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Hotel in Shigatse

Wake early at Everest Base Camp to watch the first rays of morning light turn Everest's summit wall into brilliant gold (weather permitting). After soaking in the sunrise and taking photos at the 5,200m monument, board your vehicle for the scenic drive back across the Himalayas to Shigatse for a well-deserved rest.

CHIBET Travel Notice: Everest sunrise visibility depends on mountain weather and is accessible only to guests staying at EBC Tents or Rongbuk Hotel.

DAY 11Shigatse to Lhasa via Tashilhunpo Monastery

Distance: 280 km (5 hrs driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa

Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, founded in 1447 by the 1st Dalai Lama and historical seat of the Panchen Lamas. Tour the grand Maitreya Chapel housing the world's largest gilded brass Future Buddha statue, walk past ancient red halls, and observe monks in daily worship.

Drive east along the northern route following the Yarlung Tsangpo River back to Lhasa. Arrive by afternoon and check into your hotel to pack for your departure train.

CHIBET Travel Advice: Photography is restricted or requires small fee permits inside certain monastery halls; always check with your guide.

DAY 12Lhasa to Xining on the Qinghai–Tibet Railway

Distance: 21-hour train journey | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Soft Sleeper Berth on Train

Board the legendary Sky Train for a scenic overland trip across the roof of the world.

Transfer to Lhasa Railway Station and board the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. Settle into your 4-berth Soft Sleeper compartment.

Relax as the train glides past snow-capped mountain ranges, pristine alpine lakes, and the vast Changtang Grasslands. Keep your camera ready to spot wild Tibetan antelopes, kiangs (wild asses), and yak herds grazing near the tracks. Enjoy an overnight stay in your comfortable berth.

CHIBET Travel Advice: Pack a small overnight bag with basic toiletries, personal items, chargers, and favorite snacks for the train trip.

DAY 13Arrive in Xining & Fly to Chengdu (Tour Ends)

Distance: Station-to-airport transfer, domestic flight | Meals: Self-arranged | Accommodation: Self-arranged

Arrive at Xining Railway Station in the morning. Your driver will meet you at the exit and transfer you directly to Xining Caojiabu International Airport (XNN) for your flight back to Chengdu (or your next destination), bringing your unforgettable 13-day Tibet spring expedition to a successful conclusion.

Group Departures and Prices

Prices are per person and vary by departure date and season.

Arrival DateReturn DateAvailabilityPrice p.p.
March 2027
01 Mar 202713 Mar 2027Check Availability$2150
April 2027
01 Apr 202713 Apr 2027Check Availability$2150

Included and Excluded

Included

  • 1. Tibet Permits: Tibet Travel Permit
  • 2. Transportation: 9-17 seat tourist vehicle
  • 3. Accommodation: 10 nights in twin-sharing rooms (4-star standard in Lhasa and Shigatse, 3-star standard in other places); 1 night in EBC Tent Guesthouse (multi-bed sharing) or Vienna International Hotel (4-diamond standard) Note: All domestic hotel star and diamond ratings listed follow Ctrip's standard classification.
  • 4. Meals: Breakfasts in hotel, Tibetan Sweet Tea, Tibetan Welcome Dinner, Tibetan Yak Hotpot at EBC
  • 5. Guide: Professional English-speaking local Tibetan guide
  • 6. Entrance Tickets: Peach Blossom Villages, Basomtso Lake, Lulang, Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier, Everest Base Camp + Eco-bus, Tashilhunpo Monastery
  • 7. Oxygen and Water: 1 bottle of portable oxygen for emergencies; 4L medical oxygen cylinder in the car; 1 bottle of 300ml drinking water per person per day
  • 8. Travel Insurance: Local operator liability insurance and vehicle passenger insurance
  • 9. Service Fees: All taxes, fees, and handling charges; reservation fee for visiting Potala Palace; lodging and dining subsidies for guide and driver
  • 10. Major Transportation Costs: Airfare from Chengdu to Nyingchi, soft sleeper train from Lhasa to Xining, and flight from Xining to Chengdu.

What type of train accommodation is included?

A soft-sleeper berth is included for the Lhasa–Xining journey. Soft-sleeper compartments normally use four-berth cabins with beds and shared corridor facilities. The train is an overnight journey, so keep essential items, medication, toiletries and valuables in a small personal bag.

Are the flights between Chengdu, Nyingchi, Xining and Chengdu included?

Yes. The listed tour price includes the flight from Chengdu to Nyingchi, the soft-sleeper train from Lhasa to Xining, and the flight from Xining to Chengdu. International flights and other flights not specifically listed in the itinerary are excluded.

Excluded

  • 1. Personal Expenses: Laundry, drinks, phone calls, optional activities
  • 2. Single Room Supplement (if requested)
  • 3. Meals: Lunch and dinner not mentioned in the itinerary
  • 4. Tickets: International flight tickets
  • 5. Tipping: Tips for guides and drivers
  • 6. China Visa: Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa) application fees
  • 7. Exceptional Events: Extra charges due to irresistible reasons (e.g., weather, road closures)

PLAN WITH CONFIDENCE

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Tibet Travel Permit for this tour?

Yes. International travelers need a Tibet Travel Permit to enter and travel in Tibet. The permit is also required for the Tibet portion of this Chengdu-to-Nyingchi itinerary. Entry requirements can vary by nationality and route, so please confirm the latest China entry and document requirements with your travel advisor before departure.

When is the best time to take the Nyingchi Peach Blossom Tour?

March and April are the main months for this seasonal peach blossom journey. Blooming times vary by altitude, location and weather, so different valleys and villages may reach peak bloom at slightly different times. The itinerary visits several peach blossom areas in Mainling, Bomi and Laru Village to improve the chance of seeing spring blossoms during the season.

Will I definitely see the peach blossoms in full bloom?

No. Peach blossom timing depends on local temperatures and weather conditions each year. The tour is scheduled during the usual March–April blossom season and visits several well-known peach blossom areas, but the exact stage of flowering cannot be guaranteed.

Why does the tour start in Nyingchi instead of Lhasa?

Nyingchi is at approximately 2,900 meters, considerably lower than Lhasa at around 3,650 meters. Starting in Nyingchi allows you to spend the first few days in a lower-altitude environment before gradually traveling toward Lhasa and the higher Everest region.

What is the highest altitude on this tour?

The highest overnight area is around Everest Base Camp at approximately 5,200 meters. The route also crosses high mountain passes, including Gampala Pass and Gyatso La Pass. Because the itinerary moves from lower-altitude Nyingchi to the high Everest region, travelers should allow themselves time to adjust and keep a relaxed pace at higher elevations.

Will we visit Midui Glacier or Laigu Glacier?

The itinerary includes either Midui Glacier or Laigu Glacier, depending on seasonal road, weather and local safety conditions. Both are major glacier landscapes in the Bomi and Ranwu area, but the exact glacier visited may be confirmed closer to the travel date according to local conditions.

Is the peach blossom season suitable for photography?

Yes. The route combines wild peach blossoms with snow-covered mountains, Tibetan villages, forests, rivers and alpine lakes, creating varied landscapes for photography. Early mornings and late afternoons often provide softer light, although actual conditions depend on the weather.

How long are the driving days on the Nyingchi section?

Several days involve long scenic drives along the G318 Sichuan-Tibet Highway. The longest Nyingchi-area driving day is from Lulang to Lhasa, covering approximately 450 kilometers and taking around 7–8 hours. Driving times can change because of road, weather, traffic and local conditions.

Where will I stay near Mount Everest?

Depending on the confirmed group arrangement, accommodation near Everest Base Camp may be an EBC Tent Guesthouse, Vienna International Hotel or Rongbuk Monastery Hotel. The EBC tent option uses multi-bed sharing, while hotel options provide a more conventional room arrangement. Your travel advisor will confirm the applicable accommodation before departure.

Can I see Mount Everest at sunrise?

Yes, if you stay at the EBC Tent Guesthouse or Rongbuk Monastery Hotel, you can get up early for a possible sunrise view of Mount Everest. Sunrise visibility depends on mountain weather and cloud conditions. Travelers staying in accommodation away from EBC will not have the same early-morning access.

Is a clear view of Mount Everest guaranteed?

No. Views of Mount Everest, sunrise, sunset and the Himalayan peaks depend on weather and cloud conditions. The itinerary includes Gyatso La Pass, Gawula Pass and Everest Base Camp, but clear mountain views cannot be guaranteed.

How does the tour handle altitude acclimatization?

The itinerary increases altitude gradually, beginning in Nyingchi at approximately 2,900 meters, continuing through Bomi and Lulang, then reaching Lhasa at about 3,650 meters before heading to Shigatse and Everest Base Camp. This provides a more gradual transition than flying directly into a very high-altitude destination, although individual responses to altitude vary.

Is oxygen available during the tour?

Yes. The tour includes a 4-liter medical oxygen cylinder in the vehicle and one portable oxygen bottle per traveler for emergencies. These are safety provisions rather than a substitute for acclimatization. If you feel unwell at altitude, tell your guide promptly and follow local medical or safety advice.

What is the Qinghai-Tibet Railway experience like?

On Day 12, you board a soft-sleeper train from Lhasa to Xining for an approximately 21-hour journey across the Tibetan Plateau. The route passes high-altitude grasslands, mountains and alpine lakes, offering a different way to experience the plateau after the overland portion of the tour.

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