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"From Shangri-La to the Roof of the World" - We take a breathtaking 11-day journey through ancient towns, sacred monasteries, and some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes. Begin in the cobbled streets of Lijiang and the deep canyons of Tiger Leaping Gorge, then rise into the Tibetan plateau in Shangri-La. In Lhasa, stand before the mighty Potala Palace, circle Jokhang Temple with devoted pilgrims, and witness monk debates that bring centuries of tradition to life. Cross dazzling mountain passes to turquoise Yamdrok Lake, visit historic Gyantse and Shigatse, and experience rural Tibetan life in the Nimu Valley.
An immersion into living culture, spiritual heritage, and the wild, untamed beauty of the Himalayas.
**Depart UK on 19 May**
20 May- Day 1 – Lijiang: A Living Postcard
Arrive in the charming UNESCO World Heritage town of Lijiang. Stroll its lantern-lit streets, explore the historic Mu Mansion, and climb Lion Hill for a spectacular sunset panorama of tiled rooftops against the distant Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Wow Factor: The magic of an ancient town at dusk, untouched by time.

Day 2 – Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: Touch the Sky
Ride a cable car to the icy heights of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and step into an alpine wonderland at 4,500m. Optional: Be swept away by Impression Lijiang, a breathtaking cultural performance staged against the backdrop of the mountain itself.
Wow Factor: Glacier views so close you could almost touch them.

Day 3 – Tiger Leaping Gorge to Shangri-La: Where Rivers Roar
Travel through the legendary Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Pause for lunch at a cliffside restaurant with panoramic views before continuing to Shangri-La, where the air thins and the Tibetan plateau begins.
Wow Factor: Stand at the edge of a gorge carved by nature’s raw power.

Day 4 – Shangri-La: Gateway to Tibet
Step into the golden halls of Songzanlin Monastery, the "Little Potala of the East." Wander through the pristine grasslands of Napa Lake and connect with local families in a Tibetan homestay, where stories and butter tea flow freely. (overnight is not in a homestay, it is just visiting the families)
Wow Factor: A first taste of authentic Tibetan culture.

Day 5 – Shangri-La to Lhasa: Enter the Roof of the World
Board a flight across the Himalayas to Lhasa (3,650m), the heart of Tibet. Take a gentle riverside walk along the Kyichu River, then watch the Potala Palace glow under the evening lights before a welcome dinner of traditional Tibetan flavors.
Wow Factor: Your first sight of the Potala Palace against the Himalayan sky.

Day 6 – Lhasa: Where Faith Moves Mountains
Join pilgrims at Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s holiest shrine, and wander through the bustling Barkhor Bazaar, a swirl of prayer flags and incense. In the afternoon, watch the passionate monk debates at Sera Monastery—a lively tradition that blends intellect and devotion.
Wow Factor: Immersing in a living, breathing center of Tibetan spirituality.

Day 7 – Potala Palace: Palace in the Clouds
Step inside the iconic Potala Palace, once the winter residence of the Dalai Lama, and explore its labyrinth of chapels filled with history and sacred art. Climb Yaowang Mountain for a postcard-perfect view, then discover the Thousand Buddha Rock Murals carved into ancient stone.
Wow Factor: Walking in the footsteps of kings and lamas at Tibet’s most iconic landmark.

Day 8 – Lhasa to Gyantse: Sky Lakes & Snow Passes
Journey through Tibet’s most breathtaking landscapes. Gaze at the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake, cross the snow-draped Karola Pass beneath looming glaciers, and arrive in Gyantse to visit the unique Kumbum Stupa at Pelkor Monastery.
Wow Factor: A high-altitude road trip of legendary scenery.

Day 9 – Gyantse to Shigatse: Monasteries & Fortresses
Climb Gyantse Dzong Fortress for sweeping views of the plateau, then drive to Shigatse to explore Tashilhunpo Monastery, the historic seat of the Panchen Lama. Walk through local markets where time seems to stand still.
Wow Factor: History, power, and tradition converge in Tibet’s second-largest city.

Day 10 – Shigatse to Lhasa: Valleys of Tradition
Return to Lhasa through the Nimu Valley, stopping in remote villages and an incense workshop where ancient crafts are kept alive. End the day at Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama, and shop for prayer flags or turquoise jewelry.
Wow Factor: Discovering the heartbeat of rural Tibet.

30 May-Day 11 – Lhasa Farewell: Sunrise over the Himalayas
Savor one last sunrise over the city of gods before your departure. Take with you the spirit of Tibet—its lakes, its mountains, and its timeless devotion.
Wow Factor: A farewell worthy of the Roof of the World.

The cost of this tour is just £2099.00 for all deposits paid by 01 Jan 2026. (single room £399.00) Please do not book flights from the UK until we have given the go-ahead. If you wish to reserve a place on this trip, please pay a non-refundable deposit of £250.00. A visa to is required for entry to China. Travel Insurance is mandatory on all trips.
** The itinerary has been planned for gradual altitude gain, however If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, including respiratory conditions or high blood pressure, we recommend consulting with your GP before booking**
Entry requirements
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/china/entry-requirements

Deposit Link:
https://buy.stripe.com/dRmbJ1dE616z7Vs25aaR33d

What's included?
• Sharing a twin room at 3 and 4 star standard hotels with breakfast (single supplement £399.00)
· Private English-speaking guide and all airport/train station transfer
· All transport and activities as per itinerary.
· All entrance fees as per the itinerary
· Tibet travel permit
· Air ticket Shangri-La to Lhasa

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