Discover history, experience culture, understand faith and meet the people who call Tibet home.
At Snowland Travel, we value the perspectives of people living in Tibet. We introduce you to its rich history, enduring culture and faith, and the rhythms of everyday life.
Sacred lakes, quiet monasteries, and lives shaped by the plateau.
Discover Tibet through the eyes of the people who call it home.
Snow mountains, wide plateaux and living monasteries: travel from Lhasa to lakes and the Himalayan foothills to explore Tibet’s history, culture and nature. Qinghai, Sichuan and Yunnan offer their own Tibetan cultural landscapes and ways of life.
Discover regional culture and landscapes, then start planning.
GANSU · DUNHUANGGannan monasteries and grasslands, Dunhuang Buddhist art and desert landscapes.
LHASAExplore prayer and history at the Potala, Jokhang and old town.
AROUND LHASADiscover Yamdrok Lake, Ganden and landscapes beyond the city.
TSETANG · SHANNANExplore early Tibetan history and culture around the Yarlung Valley.
SHIGATSEHome to Tashilhunpo and a gateway to journeys farther west.
GYANTSEA historic town known for Pelkor Chode and its hilltop fortress.
EVERESTA plateau journey to Everest-area viewpoints and Himalayan landscapes.
WEST TIBETDiscover Kailash, Lake Manasarovar and Ngari’s wide landscapes.
Lhasa is the central city of the Tibet Autonomous Region. Its name is often interpreted as “land of the gods,” and a legend tells of goats carrying stones for the construction of a temple. Known for its connection to the 7th-century King Songtsen Gampo, its old town, centered on the Jokhang, remains a place where pilgrims offer prayers. Drepung and Sera monasteries stand at the foot of the mountains to the north, while the Lhasa River flows to the south.
A palace on Red Hill consisting of the White Palace and Red Palace. Construction began in the 17th century under the Fifth Dalai Lama, and it long served as a center of politics and religion. Its murals and architecture introduce Tibet’s history. It forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace, Lhasa.
An important Tibetan Buddhist sacred site with 7th-century origins. On the surrounding Barkhor, pilgrims can be seen walking clockwise. Visit with respect for this place of prayer.
Gardens and palaces used as the summer residence of successive Dalai Lamas. The leafy grounds offer an encounter with Lhasa’s history and architecture. Inscribed as part of the World Heritage Historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace.
A major monastery founded in 1416. White buildings line the mountainside, and Ganden Palace once served as a residence of the Dalai Lama.
An important Gelug monastery north of Lhasa. Known for monks’ debates, it also has links to the Japanese figures Ekai Kawaguchi and Tokan Tada.
A quiet nunnery in the old town south of the Jokhang, preserving legends of King Songtsen Gampo’s meditation.
The principal monastery of the Drigung Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, on a mountainside in Meldro Gungkar County east of Lhasa. Founded in 1179, its buildings spread across high ground at about 4,400 meters. It is known for links to local faith and funerary culture.
Funeral rites are important private and religious occasions for bereaved families and local communities. Refrain from photographing or filming ceremonies and participants or using drones; follow local guidance and behave quietly and respectfully. Entry to or observation of ceremonies may not be possible. Check access and schedules before departure. Take particular care of your health at this altitude.
Lakes, grasslands, hilltop monasteries and great rivers surround the sacred city of Lhasa. Yamdrok Lake and Namtso are cherished as Tibet’s sacred lakes. We arrange visits to suit your itinerary and physical condition.
Yamdrok Lake, southwest of Lhasa in Shannan, is a sacred Tibetan lake at about 4,400m. Its intricate shoreline winds among the mountains, while light and moving clouds change its waters from turquoise to deep blue. For Tibetans, it is both a magnificent landscape and a place long cherished through prayer.
A highlight is the lake panorama from Kampa La Pass. From above, you can see the intricate terrain formed by the lake and its peninsulas and the mountain ranges stretching into the distance. After enjoying the view, you may descend to the shore, as your itinerary allows, to see the water’s colors and scenery from another angle. The lake suits both day trips from Lhasa and journeys onward to Gyantse or Shigatse.
We value time to appreciate changing light and lakeside quiet rather than rushing between views. Respect local customs by the shore and at places of prayer, leave no litter and obtain consent before photographing people or livestock. We arrange stops and time at each place according to weather, road conditions and your wishes.
Namtso north of Lhasa is a sacred lake at about 4,700m whose Tibetan name means “Heavenly Lake.” The Nyenchen Tanglha range stretches south of its vast waters, with blue lake and snow-capped mountains creating the grandeur characteristic of northern Tibet. Lake and mountains are closely tied to local beliefs and legends and are important places of prayer for pilgrims.
In contrast to Yamdrok Lake’s intricate shoreline, Namtso enchants with its vast sky and waters stretching to a distant horizon. Wind and clouds change the colors along the shore, and on clear days mountains can be seen across the lake. The Tashi Peninsula area is known for its lake scenery and pilgrimage culture. Enjoy quiet walks within permitted areas and following local guidance.
The journey from Lhasa also offers plateau grasslands and mountain scenery along the way. When walking by the lake, respect local faith: do not move mani stones or disturb places of prayer or pilgrims. Allow ample time for a visit after staying in Lhasa. We plan according to roads, weather and local visitor access.
NYENCHEN TANGLHA · 念青唐古拉山
A scenic spot for the Qinghai–Tibet Railway and snow peaks over 7,000m
Heading north from Lhasa past Yangpachen, the magnificent Nyenchen Tanglha range appears beyond the vast grasslands.
One of the Tibetan Plateau’s defining mountain ranges, Nyenchen Tanglha has a main summit of about 7,162m. For Tibetans it is more than a beautiful snow mountain. Long revered as the sacred dwelling of a mountain deity, it is deeply connected with Tibetan faith and legends.
Especially well known is its legend with sacred Namtso Lake. Tibetan tradition speaks of Nyenchen Tanglha and Namtso as a married couple. The magnificent snow mountains and shining blue lake together form a landscape symbolic of Tibet’s nature and spiritual culture.
The Qinghai–Tibet Railway and Qinghai–Tibet Highway (National Highway 109) run south of Nyenchen Tanglha. This area offers places to photograph snow mountains, broad grasslands, yak herds, colorful prayer flags and trains crossing the plateau.
Nyenchen Tanglha Viewpoint on National Highway 109 is a stop for snow mountain and grassland views. When weather, train times and location conditions align, you can capture striking images of trains crossing the grasslands against snowy peaks. It is a distinctive photographic theme combining Tibet’s magnificent nature with a modern railway.
A principal viewpoint for the main snow peak. Beside National Highway 109, it offers broad views across snowy mountains and grasslands.
Suited to landscape photography combining broad grasslands and the Qinghai–Tibet Railway. Check train times and shooting conditions and photograph from places where vehicles can stop safely.
Known for geothermal activity, Yangpachen offers distinctive snow mountain and plateau scenery on clear days.
For photographs of Nyenchen Tanglha itself rather than the railway, the Namtso area is also recommended. Snow peaks across the lake form one of Tibet’s iconic views.
Train appearances and views of snow peaks cannot be guaranteed. Photograph only from safe places where access is permitted. Do not enter tracks or railway property, and follow local rules for stopping and parking on roads.
Snowland Travel is a local travel company whose Tibetan staff deeply understand Tibet’s land, culture, faith and nature and guide your journey.
Alongside general sightseeing, we offer special photography journeys. We tailor itineraries to your wishes, including the Qinghai–Tibet Railway, snowy mountain landscapes, Namtso Lake and traditional Tibetan culture.
A journey that brings you into the heart of Tibet.
Join Snowland Travel in discovering unforgettable Tibetan landscapes.
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Yangpachen northwest of Lhasa, at the foot of the Nyenchen Tanglha range, is a plateau basin known for geothermal activity and hot springs. Surrounded by broad grasslands and mountains, heat rising from underground creates a distinctive natural landscape. Ask us about stopping here between Lhasa and Namtso to discover geothermal scenery and plateau life.
Its appeal lies in the basin beneath snow mountains and scenery revealing the presence of geothermal heat. It offers a different perspective on Tibet’s natural richness from temples and sacred lakes. We guide visits and walks only within areas where local access is permitted.
We check each hot spring facility’s operating status and visitor admission conditions before making arrangements. Only when bathing is available do we propose an itinerary according to your wishes. Keep away from geothermal vents and undeveloped areas, and follow facility guidance for both visits and bathing.
Gongkar Chode is an important ancient Sakya monastery in Tibet. Founded in 1464 by Thutob Kunga Namgyal, it is known for a mandala-like layout and murals associated with the Khyentse school of Tibetan painting.
The monastery stands at about 3,600m on the south bank of the Yarlung Tsangpo in Gongkar County, Shannan, near Gongkar Airport. Its colorful mineral-pigment murals and architecture offer insights into Tibetan faith and art. Ask us about day trips from Lhasa.
Highlights: murals associated with the Khyentse school, mandala-like temple architecture and scenery along the Yarlung Tsangpo. Follow local guidance for visits and photography inside halls.
An important principal Gelug monastery founded by Tsongkhapa in 1409. Its buildings spread across Wangpo Ri east of Lhasa, and it is also known as a sacred site housing Tsongkhapa’s funerary stupa. The pilgrimage path offers valley views. Respect monastery guidance and etiquette while visiting.
A great river flowing east across the Tibetan Plateau and through the Himalayas to become the Brahmaputra. Broad valleys and scenes of daily life line its banks. If you encounter local funeral rites or places of prayer, refrain from photography and show quiet respect.
Tsetang in the Yarlung Valley preserves Tibet’s early history and culture. A legend of descent from a monkey, an emanation of Avalokiteshvara, and a rock ogress is passed down as a story of the people’s origins. Ancient palaces, temples and royal tombs dot the surrounding area.
Founded in the 8th century, this monastery conveys the history of Tibetan Buddhism. Its buildings surround the central main hall in a layout expressing Buddhist cosmology. The overall arrangement can be seen from a nearby hill.
A hilltop building traditionally regarded as Tibet’s first royal palace. The present structure is a reconstruction, surrounded by the rural scenery of the Yarlung Valley.
An ancient temple linked to the 7th-century King Songtsen Gampo. Alongside murals and Buddhist statues, it is known for a thangka made with pearls and other materials. Check what is open before visiting.
Royal tombs of the Tibetan Empire around Chongye, known as a place preserving the history of the ancient dynasty.
An important Nyingma monastery established by Terdak Lingpa in the 17th century. Visit en route to the Yarlung Valley to encounter the region’s Buddhist culture.
Tibet’s major city after Lhasa, Shigatse developed as the cultural center of Tsang and is a base for journeys to Everest and western Tibet. A legend also recounts Padmasambhava predicting the future of this place.
Founded in 1447 by Gendun Drup, this major Gelug monastery is a landmark of Shigatse. Known as the seat of successive Panchen Lamas, it has a great assembly hall, a large Maitreya statue and funerary stupas.
A monastery with 11th-century origins and architectural elements from Tibet and China. Associated with the Buddhist scholar Buton, it is also known for intricate murals and mandalas.
The principal monastery of the Sakya tradition. Its mountain setting houses scriptures and murals passed down through a long history. It can be visited on a journey west from Shigatse.
Gyantse is a historic town that once prospered on a trade route toward India. Gyantse Dzong, the fortress overlooking the town, bears witness to the fighting during the British invasion of 1904. Pelkor Chode Monastery and its beautiful stupa remain, offering insights into Tsang’s history and culture.
A monastery founded in the 15th century, known for bringing together monasteries of different traditions. Buddhist statues and murals remain inside, offering art influenced by Tibet and neighboring regions.
A large stupa in the grounds of Pelkor Chode Monastery, also called the “Stupa of a Hundred Thousand Buddhas.” Explore its levels to discover numerous chapels, Buddhist statues and murals.
A fortress watching over the town from a rocky hill. A battleground in 1904, it preserves Gyantse’s history. Please check locally which areas can be visited.
From culture in Lhasa to the Qinghai–Tibet Railway, Everest and the wide landscapes of Ngari. Choose a route around your interests and time.
RAILWAY JOURNEY6 daysTravel by highland train to the sacred city of Lhasa, allowing time to adjust while taking in the changing landscapes.
CULTURE & HERITAGE5 daysVisit the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and Barkhor lanes, exploring the city’s history and daily life.
EVEREST REGION7 daysVisit Yamdrok Lake and towns of Tsang before continuing toward views of the Himalayan range.
PILGRIMAGE & WILDERNESS15 daysJourney to Mount Kailash, Lake Manasarovar and the ruins of the Guge Kingdom in western Tibet.
RAILWAY JOURNEY6 daysCombine the train experience with Lhasa’s monasteries and old-town walks, a thoughtful first visit to Tibet.
CULTURE & HERITAGE8 daysTravel from Lhasa toward Lhoka and Gyantse to explore monastery architecture, faith and local heritage.
Join a small group with scheduled dates, or shape a private journey around your interests.
Travel with family or friends on a route shaped around your dates, interests and walking pace. Combine temple culture, mountain photography and time to encounter local life.
For: travellers who value a personal pace and flexible planning.
Stays & meals: discuss four-star-class city hotels; remote accommodation and meal options are confirmed in advance.
Explore this travel style →
Share a local guide and vehicle with travellers choosing the same route. Explore Lhasa, Everest or Kailash after checking the departure date, meeting point and included services.
For: travellers who enjoy company and a clearly planned route.
Before booking: confirm operating conditions, availability, room sharing and included meals. A listing does not confirm departure.
Explore this travel style →
Link Lhasa with Yamdrok Lake, Gyantse and Shigatse, with possible extensions to Everest or Ngari. Connect monasteries, lakes and mountains with rest built into the route.
For: travellers looking beyond the city to varied plateau landscapes.
Planning essentials: allow for driving time, overnight elevation, remote facilities and route-specific permits.
Explore this travel style →Take the Qinghai–Tibet Railway from Xining to Lhasa, or follow plateau roads between towns and villages. Combine rail, private vehicles and sightseeing, making the journey part of the experience.
For: travellers who enjoy rail travel and changing scenery along the way.
Before travel: check sleeper availability, connections and road conditions, with time to rest after arrival.
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LOCALSnowland Travel is a Tibetan travel team based in Lhasa. We introduce the history, culture, faith and everyday life behind the scenery, sharing the perspectives of people who call Tibet home.
From railway arrangements and permit guidance to local transport and itinerary planning, we shape a considered pace around your interests, time and wellbeing.
From the lanes of Lhasa to highland roads lined with lakes and snow peaks. Ask us about Ngari, Qinghai and journeys across the Himalaya region.
Explore destinations ↗Monastery etiquette, local tables and seasonal festivals. Travel with respect, and let culture become part of the journey.
Prepare for a more comfortable highland journey with practical guidance on permits, transport, health and cultural etiquette.
Check required documents, application timing and how permits relate to your itinerary.
Learn more →Rest after arrival, stay hydrated and follow a pace that suits how you feel.
Learn more →Plan the train from Xining, local vehicles and realistic daily travel times.
Learn more →Follow local guidance and show respect in places of worship and community spaces.
Learn more →Practical planning from permits and high-altitude preparation to cultural etiquette.
Learn what to confirm about travel documents, itineraries and local arrangements.
Read the guide →Start with rest, hydration and a pace that gives your body time to adjust.
Read the guide →Follow site guidance and respect local customs to travel with understanding.
Read the guide →Beyond the mountains lie stories of everyday life and living faith. From our home in Lhasa, our Tibetan team invites you to discover the people and traditions behind the landscape.
Respect the wishes of travellers and local people, making space for thoughtful encounters.
Explore traditions through monasteries, language, shared meals and the rhythms of daily life.
Trace the stories held by each place and see the landscape with a deeper understanding.
Step by step, a closer connection to the land.
Share the places you hope to visit, your dates and what matters to you. We will help shape a thoughtful itinerary.
Compare reference routes by destination and duration, with detailed itineraries and CNY budgets.
Explore all journeys →These are locally starting and finishing reference journeys. Compare photographs and daily plans, then discuss dates, party size, stays and meals. Listings do not confirm departures or availability.
01Lhasa · Yamdrok · Gyantse · Shigatse · Everest
Combine monasteries and sacred lakes with Himalayan viewpoints; confirm actual access and overnight facilities.
02Lhasa · Shigatse · Saga · Kailash · Manasarovar
Explore western Tibet’s sacred mountain and lake, reviewing walking, altitude and basic lodging arrangements.
03Tour codeSNOWLAND TRAVEL-027
Potala Palace · Jokhang · Barkhor · monasteries
A focused introduction to the holy city’s worship, architecture and daily life, with rest prioritised on arrival.
04Lhasa · monastery culture · Yamdrok Lake · Lhasa
Add a sacred-lake day to a Lhasa stay, adapting pass stops and lakeside walking to health and conditions.
05Lhasa · Shigatse · Everest · Namtso · Lhasa
Link the Himalaya with the northern sacred lake, allowing for driving, overnight elevation and weather.
06Lhasa · Gyantse · Shigatse · Lhasa
Follow monastery and town histories from Lhasa into Tsang, combining cultural visits and plateau landscapes.
07Tour codeSNOWLAND TRAVEL-047
Xining → Xining
Connect Kumbum, Qinghai Lake, Rebgong and Shachung, allowing time for landscapes and living monastic culture.
08Tour codeSNOWLAND TRAVEL-048
Dali → Shangri-La
Link Dali, Lijiang and Shangri-La with Meili mountain viewpoints, exploring distinct communities, valleys and landscapes.
09Tour codeSNOWLAND TRAVEL-049
Shangri-La → Shangri-La
Stay in Shangri-La while exploring Songzanlin, Dukezong, lakes, forests and the Benzilan area, reducing hotel changes.
10Tour codeSNOWLAND TRAVEL-050
Chengdu → Chengdu
Travel from Chengdu through Kangding, Tagong and Danba to the Siguniang area, linking monasteries, villages, grasslands and mountains.
Reference budgets are not confirmed quotations. Final pricing depends on season, dates, rooms, group size and services. Check international flights, additional nights, single rooms, exchange rates and settlement terms separately.
Explore itineraries that visit this region, then compare trip lengths and places you would like to see.
Prices are reference amounts per person, not confirmed departures or availability. Request a quotation for your dates, party size, stays and included services.
SNOWLAND TRAVEL
NYINGCHI
SICHUAN
