8 Days Pilgrimage From Chengdu to Tibet

Chengdu, the heart of Sichuan Province in southwest China, is renowned for its adorable giant pandas, laid-back charm, and rich cultural heritage.

Once you land, make your way to your downtown hotel. For the rest of today, unwind to the city's relaxed pace, explore the lively Jinli Street, or savor the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine.

Accommodation: Dorsett Chengdu or similar (4-star)

Start your day at the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, an enchanting haven dedicated to the conservation of China's beloved national animal. Arrive early to watch the adorable giant pandas during their most active hours. Amidst the lush bamboo groves, observe playful cubs and adult pandas eating, rolling, and climbing, and gain insights into their behavior through interactive displays.

After this delightful morning, Wenshu Temple, a tranquil Buddhist sanctuary rich in history, awaits with serene gardens, intricate architecture, and cultural relics. Mingle with locals engaged in worship and savor local tea in the temple's teahouse.

Accommodation: Dorsett Chengdu or similar (4-star)

After breakfast, enjoy your free time to pack up, check out the hotel, and transfer to the airport for your flight to Tibet's capital - Lhasa.

Upon landing at Gonggar airport, your local guide will welcome you, facilitating a smooth transfer to your hotel (approximately one hour away). Following check-in, take the rest of today to acclimate to the high altitude (around 3,656 meters above sea level) with a well-deserved rest.

Accommodation: Tangka Hotel or similar (4-star)

Today, delve into Lhasa's rich spiritual heritage by visiting its two prominent monastic institutions. Drepung Monastery, once the largest in Tibet, reflects centuries of Tibetan Buddhist practice and education. Wander through its expansive courtyards and chapels, immersing yourself in the vibrant monastic life. Within Sera Monastery, vibrant debates offer a lively insight into Buddhist philosophy, where monks express themselves through animated discussions and dynamic gestures. Conclude your day with a traditional Tibetan welcome dinner at a local restaurant, marking the start of your Tibetan adventure.

Accommodation: Tangka Hotel or similar (4-star)

Your guide will lead you on a discovery journey through Lhasa's cultural wonders. Start by visiting the awe-inspiring Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ascend its 365 steps to marvel at its grand architecture, sacred halls, and chapels, filled with stunning artworks and ancient artifacts.

Next on the agenda is the revered Jokhang Temple, a lifelong pilgrimage site for Tibetans. Admire the ancient statue of Shakyamuni witness the devout practices of local worshippers, and spin the prayer wheels for blessings. Closing out the day, sit back in a local Tibetan teahouse for a fascinating glimpse into social culture.

Accommodation: Tangka Hotel or similar (4-star)

After breakfast, depart Lhasa for Shigatse on a scenic journey spanning 340 kilometers to Shigatse, lasting about 7 to 8 hours. En route, enjoy a picturesque 20-kilometer drive along the shoreline of Yamdrok Lake, stop off at a lakeside village for a farmhouse lunch, and marvel at the stunning Karola Glacier, which looks like a frozen waterfall cascading down the mountainside.

Continue your road transfer, passing by Lake Manla and the historic town of Gyantse, before finally arriving in Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest city.

Accommodation: Shigatse Schery Hotel or similar (4-star)

Tashilhunpo Monastery, the largest in western Tibet, is home to the world's largest gilded copper statue of Maitreya Buddha, along with the stupas of successive Panchen Lamas and exquisite Buddhist murals. Your guide will accompany you on the kora (circumambulation) around the monastery, walking with locals along the hillside path and reaching the highest point for commanding views.

There follows a leisurely walk around Samdroptse Old Market, browsing traditional handicrafts, jewelry, clothing, and accessories from various parts of Shigatse. Later in the day, return to Lhasa along the Yarlung Tsangpo River valley.

Accommodation: Tangka Hotel or similar (4-star)

After breakfast at the hotel, say goodbye to Tibet you have been enjoying and proceed to the airport for the next leg of your travels, either home or to your next destination.