Day 1
Arrive in Lhasa
Arrive on the Tibetan Plateau and rest. The first day is deliberately gentle to support acclimatisation.
Tour
Tibet Ganden–Samye Trek & Sacred Landscapes
A highland journey for experienced travellers, combining Lhasa’s sacred monasteries with the classic Ganden–Samye trekking route through valleys, passes, nomad landscapes and profound Tibetan Buddhist heritage.
10 daysLhasa – Ganden – Yama Do – Samye – LhasaHighland trekking, monasteries, spiritual culture
Why this journey
Highlights
Acclimatise in Lhasa while visiting Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street and the Potala Palace area
Trek between two of Tibet’s great monastic centres: Ganden and Samye
Cross highland passes, open valleys and nomadic grazing landscapes
Experience a slower, more contemplative route through Tibetan spiritual geography
Suggested Itinerary
Day by day
This is an inspirational sample route. It can be adjusted for dates, group size, pace and special interests.
Day 2
Lhasa sacred heart
Visit Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street, where pilgrims, prayer wheels and market life create one of Tibet’s most atmospheric urban scenes.
Day 3
Potala views and monastic culture
Explore Lhasa’s landmark heritage and visit one of the great Gelugpa monasteries, learning about Tibetan Buddhist practice and scholarship.
Day 4
Ganden Monastery and trek start
Travel to Ganden Monastery, dramatically set above the valley, then begin the trek with a short walking stage into open highland scenery.
Day 5
Highland valleys and nomad country
Continue through valleys used by herders, with wide skies, grazing animals and distant snow peaks shaping the day’s rhythm.
Day 6
Crossing mountain passes
Trek across higher ground with expansive views. The day is physically demanding but memorable for its sense of space and silence.
Day 7
Descent toward Samye
Descend through changing landscapes toward the Yarlung valley, where the route becomes softer and more settled.
Day 8
Samye Monastery
Reach Samye, Tibet’s first monastery, and explore its mandala-inspired layout and deep religious significance.
Day 9
Return to Lhasa
Travel back to Lhasa, with time to rest, revisit Barkhor Street or enjoy a final cultural walk.
Day 10
Departure
Depart Lhasa or continue onward with a deeper appreciation of Tibet’s landscape and spiritual culture.