Go East Young Man – 4×4 Car Tour

Arrive at Chengdu Airport and catch a connecting flight to Shangri-La the same evening. As you exit the baggage claim, a member of our team will greet you, followed by a transfer to the hotel. Upon arrival, we’ll have a late-evening snack, where participants and team members can get to know each other in a relaxed setting.

Our East Tibet tour kicks off in the vibrant old town of Shangri-La, situated at an altitude of 3,300 meters. Traditional two-story wooden houses adorned with detailed carvings give this old town its charm, creating a unique ambiance. On a walking exploration, we’ll visit the world’s largest prayer wheel, towering at 22 meters on Turtle Hill. For good karma and a smooth journey, we ensure to turn the wheel at least three times clockwise. To acclimatize optimally, we’ll take things easy today: short strolls, a warm fire at our base in the old town, and an evening of Tibetan cuisine in a local specialty restaurant.

Our first driving day takes us through the awe-inspiring gorges of the Yangtze River, Asia’s longest river and the third-longest in the world. Within the area of the three parallel rivers – Mekong, Yangtze, and Salween, which is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, we reach the tour’s lowest point at 1,900 meters. Its surprisingly warm here, we can even spot cacti by the riverside – an unexpected sight amidst the rugged Himalayan nature. Our route winds alongside the impressive 5,000-meter-high White Horse mountain range until we reach our destination for the day, our Tibetan homestay.

Set amidst the grand snow-capped mountains at an elevation of 2,000 meters, our adventurers’ homestay offers not just cozy accommodation but a truly unique cultural experience. The warm welcome from our Tibetan host family and the traditional dinner transport us straight into the heart of Tibetan hospitality. A short walk to a nearby viewpoint brings us to a narrow mountain saddle. From here, a breathtaking panorama of the deep Mekong Gorge below unfolds – a view that leaves us breathless.

Distance covered: approx. 210 km

Despite today’s shorter distance, the route promises sheer thrill. After crossing a 4,300-meter-high pass that rewards us with grand panoramic views, our journey continues on exciting roads. We face the challenge of the 5,130-meter-high Dongda Pass, one of the highest passes on our entire tour. Following this impressive ride, we reach Zuogong, a charming small town situated by the riverside, inviting exploration.

Distance covered: approx. 160 km

One highlight of our East Tibet tour awaits: the Serpent Pass with its 72 curves. Pure fun that makes our hearts flutter. We continue our tour and ride along the impressive Salween River, which originates from the Tibetan plateau and winds its way down to Myanmar, into the Shan state. Throughout the drive, breathtaking views of deep gorges surrounded by mesmerizing sandstone landscapes greet us. The mountain roads take us right through this stunning gorge, past dense pine forests, and up into the heights of Ranwu. Here, a 4,400-meter-high pass awaits. We find our rest for the night at nearly 4,000 meters, by the shores of the picturesque alpine lake of Ranwu. In the best resort of the area, an unparalleled view opens up to us: the lake, majestically framed by snow-covered peaks soaring 5,000 meters.

Distance covered: approx. 290 km

As the first sun rays touch the ground, we start our day and cruise through dense coniferous forests. This region rightly boasts the nickname “Switzerland of the Orient”. Cruising through this picturesque landscape, we pass by forested mountain slopes and vast grasslands where yaks graze leisurely. Today’s journey through East Tibet promises yet more breathtaking panoramas and we enjoy the expansive mountain passes that ultimately guide us to Linzhi. Before reaching our destination for the day, we conquer the ascent of an imposing 4,600-meter-high pass. Then we reach the most eastern tip of the Tibetan high plateau. We have made it, we are at the Roof of the World!

Distance covered: approx. 360 km

We get up early, as a long day of driving awaits. Our journey takes us through winding and well-paved roads alongside the picturesque Yarlung Tsangpo River heading west. On a newly paved road, we draw closer to our destination: Tsedang. Here, the magnificent Yumbulakhang Palace awaits us – Tibet’s oldest fortress which proudly gazes back over its two-thousand-year history. From this impressive stronghold perched atop a massive rock, a breathtaking view over the vast fertile valley unfolds. However, if pressed for time, we can opt to visit the Yumbulakhang Palace the following morning.

Distance covered: approx. 410 km

The Yarlung Tsangpo river, Tibet’s life-giver, guides us today. This mighty river is not only a crucial water source for Lhasa and southern Tibet, but it also offers captivating views. It accompanies us continuously until we reach Xigaze, our destination for the day. Our cozy hotel, centrally located, gives us the opportunity to soak in the local ambiance. A stone’s throw away, traditional markets buzz with life, offering a chance to dive into vibrant local scenes and acquire souvenirs. As the day winds down, we find ourselves spellbound by the historic Tashilhunpo Monastery, Tibet’s largest temple complex.

Distance covered: approx. 320 km

Today holds an absolute highlight of our expedition through Tibet: the majestic Mount Everest and its base camp. Climbing higher across the Gyatso-La Pass, we swiftly reach 5,222 meters – marking the highest point of our entire tour. The magnificent road, with its myriad of curves, presents us with spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, including several surpassing the 8,000-meter mark, and deep, captivating valleys. A truly unparalleled adventure. After passing Tingri, the road winds further uphill, especially on the renowned road of 108 curves, leading over the 5,200-meter high Pang La Pass. On a clear day, this pass offers a unique panoramic view of the Himalayan range, with Makalu (8,463m), Shisha Pangma (8,012m), Lhotse (8,561m), Cho Oyu (8,201m), and the imposing Mount Everest (8,848m).

Before we reach Rongbuk Monastery, it’s essential to note that for environmental reasons since January 2019, we can’t cover the last few kilometers in our vehicles. Instead, we board a bus that takes us to the monastery. Upon arrival, we’re greeted with a magnificent backdrop of Everest and clear views if the weather permits. Our accommodation for the night is a modest guesthouse located near our machines.

Distance covered: approx. 330 km

Today, we continue our adventure, navigating towards Sakya. Along the way, we conquer two passes, each surpassing 5,000 meters in height. Our route meanders through remote mountain roads, and during our drive, we pass by a dried-up salt lake. The Sakya Monastery, majestically positioned with its white pagodas against the mountainsides, was once the center of Buddhist scholarship in Tibet and boasts a rich history. Standing like a sentinel over the valley, it is surrounded by what seems like an endless grassy landscape. What makes this monastery special is its architecture. Unlike many other Tibetan monasteries which display traditional Tibetan building styles, the Sakya Monastery reflects influences from Mongolia – a powerful testament to the cultural ties between Tibet and Mongolia in the past.

Distance covered: approx. 250 km

We set out on the Friendship Highway, a significant road link between China and Nepal. This highway runs through numerous picturesque villages, bypassing vast plateau landscapes and wheat fields shimmering golden in the sunlight. We soon reach our destination for the day: the historic town of Gyangze. Overlooking Gyangze is the impressive Gyangze Dzong fortress, which stands as a guardian above the town. Our first stop is the Buddhist Pelkhor Monastery. Renowned for its stunning architecture and art, the monastery is often dubbed the “Monastery of Ten Thousand Paintings,” hinting at the artistry that adorns its interiors. The highlight of the monastery, however, is its gigantic stupa, known to be the largest throughout Tibet. Within its four floors and 108 chapels, it conceals innumerable treasures. The 10,000 wall paintings are merely a fraction of what awaits discovery. Every corner of this magnificent structure narrates its own tale, inviting to delve deeper into Tibet’s culture and history.

Distance covered: approx. 240 km

Our last day with our cars starts with a drive across the Karo La Pass, situated at an elevation of 5,100 meters. Overlooking the pass, a sprawling glacier can be seen right from the road. After crossing the pass, we’re treated to a sight of one of Tibet’s most beautiful lakes: the azure-blue Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s holiest lakes. Its captivating colors aren’t the only beauty as it is nestled amidst towering mountains. Locals believe that those pilgrims who swim in the holy lake Yamdrok are forgiven all sins. So better unpack your swimming shorts and jump in! Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, from the lake’s shore, we ascend our tour’s final pass, the 4,900-meter high Yamdrok Pass.

Next, we make our way to Lhasa, Tibet’s capital. But before immersing ourselves in this culturally rich metropolis, we follow the course of the mighty Yarlung Tsangpo River. Its waters mirror the blue sky, guiding us as we slowly approach the mysterious and vibrant city of Lhasa. We have made it and reached our final destination – its time to celebrate! We’ll stay near the old town and embark on an evening stroll at sunset.

Distance covered: approx. 260 km

Today is dedicated to Lhasa’s cultural side, the mystical capital of Tibet. Lhasa, translated literally as the “Place of the Gods,” has a trove of attractions awaiting us. In the morning, we head to the iconic Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama. Exploring both its exterior and interior, we gain a deeper understanding of Tibet’s tumultuous history. Later, we wander through the narrow lanes of the Barkhor Market. This bustling market is a melting pot of Tibetan culture where vendors offer an array of goods and souvenirs, from traditional attire and jewellery to religious artifacts. Numerous pilgrims walk clockwise around the market’s centrepiece – the Jokhang Temple, which we visit subsequently. To many Tibetans, this temple represents the spiritual heart of Tibet and the endpoint of countless pilgrimages. Here, we witness the profound religiosity of the Tibetan people first-hand.

In the afternoon, our journey takes us to the Sera Monastery. Located a few kilometres outside the city, this monastery is renowned for its animated theological debates, where monks emphasize their points with spirited gestures and shouts. We enjoy local specialities in a restaurant near the old town and celebrate “Goodbye Tibet” (for now).

Today marks the end of an unforgettable journey. You will fly back to Chengdu. Departure for home. The flight home is possible from 7 PM onwards.