Trekkup Dubai ✔

Secluded, distant, and untouched - Legendary Tibet sits high in the storybook heights of the Himalayas, unlike anywhere else on Earth. With an average elevation of 4,500 meters, it earns its title as the Roof of the World, offering endless plateaus, snow-draped peaks, and skies so close they feel touchable. The landscape is stark, vast, and impossibly beautiful, painted with valleys, glaciers, and lakes that feel like they belong on another planet.

But Tibet is more than just a view, it’s the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism, alive in every fluttering prayer flag and spinning prayer wheel. In Lhasa, the capital, you’ll stand before the towering Potala Palace, once the winter home of the Dalai Lama and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just a short walk away, Jokhang Temple anchors the city’s spiritual life, as pilgrims circle it clockwise on Barkhor Street, murmuring mantras and spinning hand-held wheels in a moving meditation centuries old.

Tibet’s identity hasn’t come without struggle. Once a theocratic state of monks and monasteries, it was occupied by Chinese forces in the 1950s and officially became part of the People’s Republic of China. The political future of Tibet remains a subject of global debate—but its cultural resilience is undeniable. Tibetan nomads, with their yak-hair tents and deep connection to the land, still roam the high plains. They keep alive traditional crafts like thangka painting and handwoven carpets, embodying a culture shaped by both hardship and deep spiritual calm.

Tibet is a place where nature and devotion blend into one, where silence holds power and every view feels sacred. And yes, the altitude might steal your breath—but the magic of this land will too.

But Tibet is only part of this journey. We’ll also meet pandas and ride the highest railway in the world.

Our adventure begins with the Qinghai–Tibet Railway, a marvel of high-altitude engineering that reaches a jaw-dropping 5,072 meters at Tanggula Pass. It glides over 550 km of permafrost, using futuristic tech to keep the tracks stable. Oxygen is pumped into the cabins to ease the ride—making it the perfect way to acclimate while watching the wild Tibetan plateau unfold outside your window.

And when we reach Chengdu, prepare for a totally different kind of thrill: pandas. At the research center, these sleepy rockstars are most active in the morning, so we’ll time our visit to catch the cubs tumbling, munching, and stealing hearts. You might be surprised to learn that pandas have six fingers, including a thumb-like adaptation for grabbing bamboo.

Are you ready for an unforgettable fusion of ancient and modern? Let's go!

Day 0: Departure
Meet at the airport for your direct flight to Chengdu.

Day 1: Chengdu
After clearing immigration, we’ll stroll through Kuan Zhai Alley and Jinli Ancient Street for their Sichuan vibe and famous, spicy food. Overnight in Chengdu.

Day 2: Chengdu – Xining – High-Altitude Train to Lhasa
Morning flight to Xining, followed by a quick look at the city, to stretch our legs. In the afternoon, we board the legendary Qinghai–Tibet Railway—a 20-hour ride through spectacular landscapes. Settle into your soft sleeper cabin (4 people) and enjoy a slow climb into the Tibetan Plateau. The real views start here.

Day 3: Arrival in Lhasa
Arrive in Lhasa in the afternoon and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure for acclimatization to the staggering 3,650m altitude. Take it easy and hydrate.

Day 4: Explore Lhasa
We begin with Jokhang Temple, the holiest site in Tibetan Buddhism, where pilgrims from across the region gather to worship at this 1400-year-old temple. Then we explore Old Town and Barkhor Street, a vibrant market maze filled with incense, prayer flags, and centuries of tradition.

Day 5: Lhasa – Yamdrok Lake – Karo La Glacier – Gyantse – Shigatse
This morning we hit the road early, traversing the picturesque Yarlung River towards the sacred Yamdrok Lake, one of the three largest lakes in Tibet. We'll discover the vastness and serenity of this holy lake and its surrounding mountains from the Kamba La Pass. As we drive along the lake shore to Nankartse and ascend to the stunning Karo La Glacier, we'll have close-up views of Mt. Nojin Kangtsang. Here we will stretch our legs on a 2-3 hour trail to discover higher glacier lakes.s.

Day 6: Shigatse – Gyatso La Pass – Everest Base Camp (North)
Today we travel through remote areas, passing through picturesque but isolated Tibetan farming villages before heading over Gyatso La Pass (5,248m) for jaw-dropping views. Continuing on through Geu La Pass, we'll reach Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest. Here we’ll walk near the Everest North Base Camp (5,150m)—an unforgettable place to breathe in the Himalayas.

Day 7: Rongphu Monastery – Shigatse
We'll catch the sunrise at Rongphu Monastery, with chanting monks setting the tone. If time allows, there will be a quick visit to Tashizom village before we return to Shigatse.

Day 8: Shigatse – Chengdu
We return to Lhasa and catch a connecting flight to Chengdu. Free time in the afternoon.

Day 9: Pandas
Before we say 再见 (goodbye) to China, we’ll visit the Chengdu Panda Research Center. These charming black-and-white creatures are most active in the mornings, with the baby pandas being particularly playful.

It won't take long for you to see just how extraordinary they are! Growing to heights of 1.2m to 1.5m and weighing up to 135kg, pandas spend over half their day consuming bamboo. And yes, they are born pink and measure around 15cm.

After, we'll have some time for a last round of souvenir shopping before heading to the airport for our direct flight back home, with heads and hearts full of unforgettable Sichuan-Tibetan memories!

Level: easy to moderate (high altitude ahead).
Activities: trekking, sightseeing, cultural immersion.
Accommodation & meals: 4 star comfortable hotels - double sharing. Restaurant meals excluded.

Cost: 11,580 AED all-inclusive of international and domestic flights + train rides.

The Upper Mustang region of Nepal, near the border of Tibet, is a place as hallowed as it is high altitude. In this land of myth and mystery, at the base of the Himalayan mountains and adjacent to the famed Annapurna Circuit, remote monasteries cling to cliffsides, and the peaks feel so close you could reach out and touch them.

An otherworldly landscape that will literally take your breath away, the harsh, desert-like terrain reveals stunning natural beauty around every corner, from the imposing Nilgiri, Tilicho, and Dhaulagiri peaks to the apple orchards that dot the countryside. Renowned for its unique Tibetan-influenced culture, Upper Mustang is a mecca for trekkers looking for that perfect blend of off-grid exploration, dramatic vistas and cultural discovery.

Formerly known as the Kingdom of Lo, the area earned the nickname “The Forbidden Kingdom”, as foreigners were barred from entering until the early 1990s. At its heart lies its ancient capital, the walled city of Lo Manthang, boasting an exotic mix of Thakali, Magar, Tibetan, and Hindu and Buddhist cultures – and offering a glimpse of a world that has hardly changed in decades.

Amid Mustang’s breathtaking landscapes lies the Chungsi Cave Monastery, a sacred site revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike. Unlike the many man-made caves throughout the region, Chungsi Cave is a natural wonder sculpted by time and nature. Legends about the site abound – it is believed that both the 8th century Buddhist master Guru Rinpoche and the Hindu god Shiva meditated here.

Located in a remote and beautiful valley, the pilgrimage site of Muktinath is built in the pagoda style, with stupa, holy taps, ponds, eternal flames, and the monastery itself. A space of spiritual liberation at 3750 meters, it is believed that bathing in the waters of its taps and ponds provides eternal salvation. With horizon views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, and mysterious landscapes across all of Upper Mustang, you’re sure to feel transformed by this holy place.

Mustang is the Tibet of your imagination, with windswept views of Himalayan peaks and desert-like valleys where the chants and hymns of wandering monks beckon trekkers and pilgrims from near and far! While this region is no longer “forbidden”, it remains somewhat restricted to outsiders – so don’t miss the chance to be among the few that experience its magic.

Let’s go!!

Day 1: Kathmandu + flight to Pokhara

Morning arrival in Kathmandu, short rest and set off for our first bit of sightseeing, while Mustang permits are being processed.

We ll head to Bhaktapur Durbar Square (UNESCO World Heritage Site), where we’ll explore ancient temples, courtyards, and vibrant local culture. Later, with permits in hand, we’ll board a scenic flight to Pokhara, where the stunning Annapurna mountain range awaits.

Day 2: Flight to Jomsom / Dumba Lake / Kagbeni

We start the day with a thrilling early-morning flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, flying between the mighty Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and over the world’s deepest gorge. After arriving in Jomsom, we’ll make the short drive toward Kagbeni (2,810 m), the ancient gateway to Upper Mustang. Along the route, we’ll stop to visit the peaceful Dumba Lake, a serene Himalayan gem.

Day 3: Samar / Trek to Chungsi Cave Monastery / Ghami

Today will be a full and active day combining both driving and trekking. We’ll start with a scenic drive from Kagbeni to Samar (3,600 m), where we’ll enjoy lunch before beginning a 2-to-3-hour hike from Samar to the fascinating Chungsi Cave Monastery, set inside a natural cave.
After exploring Chungsi, we’ll continue with a short 30-minute climb to reach Syangboche Monastery at 3,850 m. Following our visit there, we’ll drive onward to Ghami (3,520 m), where we will spend the night. Throughout the journey, you’ll experience Mustang’s strikingly dry, desert-like landscapes, offering a unique and rugged Himalayan atmosphere.

Day 4: Trek to Lo-Gekar Gompa & Ghar Gompa / Charang

Today’s trek features stops at two historic settlements along the route to Lo-Gekar. Lo-Gekar Gompa, one of Nepal’s oldest monasteries—older even than Tibet’s famous Samye Gompa—is believed to be a meditation site of Guru Rinpoche, credited with bringing Tantric Buddhism to Tibet in the 8th century.

A short walk from there brings you to Ghar Gompa, dating back to the 1200s, where Guru Rinpoche is venerated as the central figure. This gompa is especially renowned for its intricate rock carvings and holds a local belief that it grants the wishes of those who visit.

The trek from Ghami to Ghar Gompa takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, and after about an hour exploring Ghar Gompa, we’ll continue onward for another 2 to 3 hours to reach Charang (3,560 m), where we settle in for the night.

Day 5: Drive to Lo Manthang

Today we reach Lo Manthang, making the 2-to-3-hour drive from Charang to our final and most anticipated stop, sitting at an altitude of 3,810 meters. Known as the “walled city”, the ancient capital of Upper Mustang is entirely enclosed by stone walls, preserving its centuries-old charm and cultural significance. Every trek or journey to Upper Mustang finds its culmination here, where history, tradition, and breathtaking landscapes come together.

Day 6: Lo Manthang

We have an additional day in Lo-Manthang today, giving us the opportunity to explore the city in more depth. We’ll visit the historic King’s Palace and other nearby cultural landmarks. One of the key highlights is experiencing the Tibetan-influenced culture of the Lhobas people, which gives Lo Manthang its distinctive charm.
Additionally, the area is believed to have 12 ancient caves adorned with old Buddhist paintings, dramatically situated along the edge of a 14,000-foot cliff. As we explore the city and its surroundings, we’ll spend around 3 to 4 hours walking and soaking in the remarkable atmosphere.

Day 7: Muktinath / Jomsom

Today we begin our return journey, driving from Lo Manthang back to Jomsom via the sacred site of Muktinath. The route offers spectacular mountain views and passes through rugged Mustang landscapes, with stops at local villages along the way.
At Muktinath, one of the most important pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists, you’ll have the chance to visit the temple and explore its spiritual surroundings before continuing the scenic drive to Jomsom, where we’ll spend the night.

Day 8: Flight to Pokhara

This morning, we board a short but scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, soaring over the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival in Pokhara, short rest and relax at leisure.

Day 9: Flight to Kathmandu / Departure

Connecting flight to Kathmandu and back home. Bye bye, Nepal!

Level of difficulty: Moderate - limited facilities + high altitude ahead!
Accommodation: 4* hotel in Kathmandu, local tea houses in Mustang – double sharing. Local meals included.
Activities: Trekking, off-roading, sightseeing, immersion in ancient Buddhist culture.

Cost: AED 9,110 incl. 4 domestic flights and permits. International flights excluded.

Cost valid until AUG 09. Past this date cost will change.

Specifically excluded: International flights, visa, insurance, meals on transfers (ie. in Kathmandu).

If the mountains are the crown of Georgia's magnificent landscape, Kachetia is the shining heart. Known almost exclusively from vineyards and wineries, this wide and fertile valley cuts into the snowy Dagestan Caucasus from the north and Azerbaijan wetlands from the south.

Georgia is undoubtedly the birthplace of grape cultivation. Nowhere else in the world is the evidence is reaching such ancient times. Grape seeds found in the Caucasian tombs are over 7,000 years old. There are over 500 native grape varieties in Georgia, far more than anywhere else! Most of them are still completely unknown to the rest of the world and only here you can try extremely unique varieties with a wide range of subtle differences in taste.

On this trip Georgia will reveal to us its quintessence. We will indulge in the beautiful landscapes of the Caucasus, taste wonderful Georgian cuisine, right at its birth place. It will be a great opportunity to experience an adventure in the country of famous toasts and hospitable people.

DAY 1 - HARVEST

Rtveli is a traditional vintage and rural harvest in Georgia. We will take a part in it by helping a local family, plantation owners. Expect some festivities, distinctive Georgian traditions that are still alive. In the evening Georgian family harvest dinner.

DAY 2 – HIDDEN WATERFALL

Today we will hit the trail alongside the river into old, green forest. After passing several bridges and fresh water springs, we will reach gorgeous waterfall where we can take a dip. Hike usually takes total of 5 hrs.

DAY 3 – SIGHNAGI – CITY OF LOVE

Signagi, founded in the 18th century, is today called the Georgian city of love, aspiring to the name of local Carcassonne or little Toscany. Charmingly situated at an altitude of 790 meters above sea level and renovated in recent years, became famous for 24-hour Civil Registry Office. The city lives almost exclusively from grape production, tourism and carpet weaving. Our destination will be famous Monastery of Bodbe and biggest grape factory. In the afternoon we will have free time to enjoy spectacular panorama of Kachetia, magic cobblestone streets of the old town or take ride in old soviet car - Lada. You can continue local produce tasting at famous Pheasant’s Tears or take a walk along ancient city wall of 2.5km. Late in the evening we will leave back to Tbilisi and further on to airport for return flight home.

Cost: AED 3,520 all inclusive flights until AUG 23.

Activities:
Sightseeing, trekking, taking part in Rtveli – Georgian traditional harvest

Accommodation & meals:
Included - guesthouse (double sharing rooms), meals included, unlimited beverages during dinners.

Visas:
UAE residence visa holders receive visa on arrival.

See yah at the harvest x

Trekkup Crew

Welcome to the land of soaring peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and the real deal of nomadic lifestyle. With mountains dominating over 90% of the country's terrain, the Tien Shan range stands as a home to an immersive nature experience like no other. Here, the Peak Victory towers at a staggering 7,439 m, amidst a landscape adorned with magnificent rock formations, thermal springs, serene lakes and valleys. Your inner nomad will immediately break free!

The nomadic lifestyle in Kyrgyzstan is deeply rooted in the country's history and culture, dating back centuries. Despite the ongoing urbanization, many Kyrgyz still embrace the elements, preserving traditional practices and passing down ancestral knowledge to future generations. It fosters a strong sense of community and interconnectedness among Kyrgyz families, who often gather for seasonal migrations, celebrations, and cultural events.

Situated at the crossroads of Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan holds geopolitical significance due to its strategic location and political dynamics. The country has a complex relationship with its Soviet past. Especially in the capital city Bishkek you will notice how Socialist realism, the dominant artistic style in the Soviet Union, left its mark on art and public spaces: Mosaics, murals, and sculptures depicting themes of socialist ideology, industrial progress, and heroic figures can be found throughout the city.

However, on this trekkup weekender prepare to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with the raw, untamed beauty of the Kyrgyz landscape. With each moment, we will discover a sense of freedom and a connection to the earth beneath our feet. Get ready to breathe in the crisp mountain air, soak in the panoramic views, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Can you hear the Kyrgyz mountains calling your name?