Embark on a breathtaking journey through Amdo Tibet, exploring Qinghai Lake, sacred monasteries, vast grasslands, and nomadic culture. Experience authentic Tibetan traditions, visit hidden Buddhist retreats, soak in natural hot springs, and witness stunning landscapes on this unforgettable adventure.
You may also looking for day tours from Xining, which includes the best Qinghai Lake day tour. Our trips in Amdo usually cover all best experience like Homestay for experience in Tibetan families. These outstanding trips are also family friendly if you want to go with your near and dear ones.
Highlights
- The beautiful Qinghai lake
- Yellow river
- Experience Tibetan nomad and farmer families homestay
- Explore Tibetan traditional Thangka painting in Rebgong
- Horseback riding experience
- Rongwu monastery in Rebgong
What’s Included
- Transportation (Tour guide is same as driver)
- Meal (Breakfasts & Dinners)
- Pick-up & drop-off
- Accommodations (Hotels & Home-stays)
- Entrance fee
- Expenses of driver and tour guide
What’s Excluded
- Travel insurance
- Train/flight fare
- Personal expenses
- Driver and tour guide gratuity
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Xining – Qinghai Lake – Chabcha Town (228km)
In the morning, embark on a scenic drive from Xining to Qinghai Lake (Kokonor), the largest saltwater lake in Asia, situated at an altitude of 3,200m (10,499 ft). Along the way, cross the Sun & Moon Mountain, a historic pass where Princess Wencheng traveled on her journey to Tibet in the 7th century.
Upon arrival at the 151 Settlement, visit the Er’Lang’Jian Scenic Area, where you can explore the lake’s beauty and enjoy optional activities like boat rides (at your own expense). After lunch at Qinghai Lake, continue the drive through the Shala Pass (3,800m/12,467 ft), offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lake. You can take an optional one-hour hike for an even better vantage point. In summer, the surrounding grasslands bloom with wildflowers, and you’ll have the chance to taste fresh yak yogurt from local nomadic families.
Overnight: Hotel, Chabcha Town
Day 2: Chabcha – Drakar County – Bazong
Start the day with a 2-hour drive to Drakar County, passing through vast nomadic grasslands. Visit the Drakar Monastery, a hidden gem with 25 sacred power sites of Tibetan Buddhism. For the adventurous, a 2-hour kora (pilgrimage hike) around the monastery offers stunning views and spiritual immersion.
After lunch in Drakar County, continue driving for another 2 hours to Bazong, passing through the dramatic Baku Canyons, known for their incredible rock formations and landscapes.
Overnight: Zongri Hotel, Bazong
Day 3: Bazong – Sogwo Grassland
After a traditional Tibetan breakfast with a local farming family, drive through the stunning Tsekog Grasslands en route to Sogwo. Along the way, stop at Hor Monastery, a secluded retreat for yogis, known for its long Mani Wallnestled in a hidden valley.
Arriving in Sogwo by early evening, you’ll be welcomed by a Tibetan-Mongolian nomadic family, where you’ll experience authentic nomadic life—herding yaks, milking, and learning about their traditions. For an added adventure, horseback riding is available (at your own expense).
Overnight: Tibetan Nomad Family Homestay
Day 4: Sogwo – Lhamo Lhatso Hot Spring – Rebgong (Tongren)
In the morning, drive to the Lhamo Lhatso Hot Spring, a peaceful retreat where you can relax in its natural thermal waters. Afterward, continue your journey to Rebgong (Tongren), home to Tibet’s most renowned Thangka painting monasteries—Seng-ge Shong Upper and Lower Monasteries. Here, you’ll have the chance to visit a Thangka painter’s home, enjoy Tibetan tea, and observe the meticulous artistry behind these sacred paintings.
Overnight: Modern Tibetan Homestay, Rebgong
Day 5: Rebgong – Labrang Monastery
In the morning, drive to Labrang Monastery, one of the six great monasteries of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect and a major Tibetan Buddhist learning center. A local monk guide will lead your monastery tour, offering deep insights into its history and daily monastic life. Afterward, enjoy free time to explore the monastery at your own pace.
Overnight: Baoma Hotel, Labrang
Day 6: Labrang – Lanzhou (Tour Ends)
Today, drive to Lanzhou, where your journey concludes. We wish you safe travels and unforgettable memories from your Tibetan adventure!