Explore Tibet Tour Packages by Tibet Shambhala Adventure

Have you ever dreamt of exploring a place where the sky touches the mountains and spirituality fills the air? Then, it’s time to head to Tibet and explore its hidden gems. This remote and majestic land is full of wonders waiting to be discovered.

But planning a trip to Tibet is not something you can just do in a snap and on your own. The place is quite unique and it takes proper guidance to truly experience its beauty. Here are some of our tour packages in Tibet Shambhala Adventure that will take you to the heart of Tibet and unlock its true wonders.

Mount Kailash group tour

First on our list of favorite Tibet tour packages is the Mount Kailash group tour. This tour starts and ends in Lhasa, with all members of the group coming together from different countries. You can come directly to Lhasa or fly to any city in mainland China before continuing to Lhasa.

The Mount Kailash group tour includes sightseeing in the holy city of Lhasa, admiring the stunning Yamdrok Lake and Noejing Kangsang’s Karola glacier, exploring the ancient town of Gyantse and its Kubum Pagoda stupa, and visiting Shigtase (the capital of the Tsang region). Mount Kailash itself is known as Gang Ti-Se in Tibetan, meaning “Precious Snow Mountain”, and is informally referred to as Gang Ringpoche or “Mount of Swastikas.” This sacred mountain holds significance for Buddhists, Bon followers, Hindus, and Jews.

The main highlight of the Mount Kailash group tour is the three-day trek around Mount Kailash, where you will get up close and personal with this sacred mountain. The most challenging part of this trek, however, is crossing the Drolmala Pass at an elevation of over 5600m. You will also visit Zutrulphuk, a small monastery and cave with a history dating back over a thousand years. This is the final stop on your trek around Mount Kailash and holds great spiritual significance.

Yamdrok lake trekking

Next up, we’ve prepared an experience that’s a little closer to the heart of nature yet bursting with culture. It begins with soaking yourself in Lhasa’s spiritual atmosphere, exploring ancient monasteries like Drepung and Sera, and marveling at the architectural wonders of the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. These spots are recognized worldwide and hold spots on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Doesn’t that already sound amazing? But it only gets better.

The hike towards Yamdrok Lake is where the magic really happens. Stretching over two days, this trek will bring you face-to-face with untouched nature, from wild animals like blue sheep and antelopes to the pastoral life of yaks and sheep grazing. The Jeshul La pass (which stands over 5000m high) will reward you with a breathtaking panorama of Yamdrok Lake’s azure waters set against the backdrop of Kurla Kangri’s snow-draped peaks.

Your Yamdrok Lake trek ends in a peaceful overnight camp on the lake’s shores. The loop tour around the lake the following day is a deep dive into the heart of Tibet’s pastoral and nomadic traditions, framed by the stunning vistas of surrounding villages and mountains. When it comes time to return to Lhasa, you’ll carry with you a profound connection to the land and its people.

Tibet classical tour

This tour is a deep dive into Tibet’s heart and soul. We kick things off in Lhasa, visiting some spots that will definitely make your jaw drop. You will get to walk around the Potala Palace or mingle in the busy lanes of Bharkor Bazar.

Then, we hit the road to Tsetang, which is about 160 km south of Lhasa. This place is where Tibet’s pulse beats the strongest, with the Yarlung Valley adding its own kind of magic. The scenery here is courtesy of the mighty Brahmaputra River, which snakes its way from far Western Tibet near Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. And Tsetang? This cradle of Tibet is home to highlights like the Samye Monastery and Yumbu Lhakang, to name a few.

Next up, the tour will lead you to Gyantse, which played a key role in the trade routes between India and Tibet and is today known for its vast farming lands. Here, you’ll step into the Palchoe Monastery and the Kubum Pagoda Stupa. The stories here span over 600 years, with sacred statues and relics that echo tales from the past.

The tour continues to Shigatse, which is home to the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery — the heartland of the Panchen Lama and the largest monastery around these parts. Simply put, this tour is a tribute to Tibet’s cultural and historical legacy that will leave you spellbound!

Each of these Tibet tour packages is designed to offer an immersive experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Send us a message today or explore more of our Tibet tour package options to start planning your ultimate adventure in the Land of the Snows.

Discover Beijing Great Wall Tour’s Treasures

If you want to see one of the most awe-inspiring construction wonders in the world, then our Beijing Great Wall tour at Tibet Shambhala Adventure should be on your list. Beijing is the best place to see the Great Wall because it has sections like Badaling and Mutianyu that are easy to get to. These parts are just one to two hours away by car from the center of Beijing, so you can easily add them to your trip plans.

Throughout its history, Beijing has stood as a key city in the north of China, serving as both an ancient capital and a crucial military post. Numerous leaders throughout the ages have focused on constructing parts of the Great Wall in this area to protect their land.

In Beijing, the Great Wall stretches over 350 miles. Most of it was built during the Ming Dynasty, making up more than 320 miles of the wall you see today. It runs through several areas including Pinggu, Miyun, and a few others. This part of the wall was important for protecting the area a long time ago.

Huanghuacheng Great Wall

The Huanghuacheng part of the Great Wall is truly special because it’s right next to a lake, stretching for about 6.7 miles. What makes it stand out is the Haoming Lake that wraps around parts of the wall, causing some sections to be submerged in water. Now, that’s not something you see every day! During the peak of summer, the area gets covered in bright yellow wildflowers, attracting lots of visitors who come to see this unique blend of nature and history.

Jiankou Great Wall

The Jiankou section is popular for taking pictures because of its untamed beauty and stunning landscapes. It’s also a great spot for people who love a good hiking challenge due to its steep paths and cool views. Its unique W shape is the reason behind its name, Jiankou, which translates to “arrow nock.” Among its many features is a particularly steep stretch known as “Eagle Flies Facing Upward,” which is so precarious that hikers must climb in single file. If you’re considering a visit to Jiankou, be mindful of the risks associated with its rugged and unspoiled nature.

Xiangshuihu Great Wall

At Xiangshuihu, you’ll find a part of the Great Wall that hasn’t been fixed up much, making it perfect for an adventure. This place lets you enjoy the old wall from the Ming Dynasty while being surrounded by natural springs and waterfalls. The entrance, known as Moshikou Pass, was important back in the day for keeping enemies away because of how well it was situated. No matter the season, Xiangshuihu offers a peaceful beauty, taking you closer to nature. In winter, the waterfalls turn to ice, and plum blossoms pop out, adding a special touch to your visit.

Mutianyu Great Wall

Beijing’s Great Wall Tour Treasures

The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is the longest part and still stands today. When you see it, it feels like you’re looking at a huge dragon crawling over the hills. There are lots of lookout spots along the wall, and you won’t go far without seeing one. An interesting spot is the Zhengguan Terrace, where three watchtowers are grouped together—something you don’t see elsewhere. This clever design meant soldiers could easily spot any approaching enemy from miles away.

At the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, the views are stunning no matter the season. Spring brings a carpet of wildflowers and makes everything look like a painting. Come summer, the mountains are lush and green and offer a fresh, vibrant view. Fall turns the landscape into a canvas of oranges and reds, making it incredibly beautiful. And in winter, the snowy scene is breathtaking, with the ancient wall draped in white.

Our Beijing Great Wall tour:

If you’re planning to visit China for a short time, you should definitely consider adding the Beijing city tour to your list. Beijing is a fascinating mix of old and new, offering a wide range of things to see and do. From exploring historical sites to trying out delicious food, a tour around Beijing is a must. Plus, if you’re heading to Tibet from mainland China, starting your adventure in Beijing, the country’s capital, is a great idea.

On the Beijing Great Wall tour, you can either hike up and touch history with your own hands or hop on a cable car for some awesome views without breaking a sweat. If you’re picking a spot, Mutianyu is a great spot. It’s not packed with people, which means you get more space to yourself, especially if you’re heading off to Tibet afterward. Plus, a little hike here is a great warm-up for the higher altitudes in Tibet.

Besides the Beijing Great Wall tour, Beijing is packed with other cool spots you have to see, like the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Tiananmen Square. All these places are part of what makes the city so rich in history and culture. If visiting them sounds like your kind of adventure, send us a message through our website today.

Nepal Trekking Trip by Tibet Shambhala Adventure

Like many avid travelers, you’ve probably caught wind of Nepal and its many unbelievable trekking spots. There’s just something magical about the country — from the eye-popping views of those towering peaks to the fresh nip in the air down to the seriously friendly locals. It’s no wonder that it pulls in over 200,000 hikers each year.

For 67 years, this ‘the land of Gods’ has been a renowned destination, with Nepal trekking trips being particularly popular. This is largely because it is home to numerous Himalayan peaks — including of course Mount Everest, the highest in the world.

With that said, the country and its locals remain authentic despite the increasing number of visitors. The Nepalese take pride in their land and tourism industry and are always eager to share their surroundings with visitors.

So, how do you plan a Nepal trekking trip? Here at Tibet Shambhala Adventure, we have over two decades of experience in the tourism industry, and we’ve got our finger on the pulse when it comes to delivering whatever you desire from your time in Nepal.

Know your seasons

Picking the right season is crucial in planning your Nepal trekking trip.

• If you’re after warmer weather and seeing blooms in full swing, aim for spring — specifically between March and May. This period gives you mild temperatures, especially in lower altitude treks like in the lower Annapurna area.

• By spring, the chill of winter starts to fade, making conditions just right for trekking, with the added visual treat of flowers like the giant rhododendrons dotting the landscape.

• Summer (which runs from late May to mid-September) gets tricky with the monsoon bringing heavy rains and making trek routes less enjoyable. But don’t worry, it’s not all gloom. Places like Ladakh, sitting high on the Tibetan plateau, remain nearly untouched by monsoon, showcasing clear skies and a dry climate, perfect for trekking.

• Come autumn starting in late September, you’ll find arguably the best trekking conditions. Post-monsoon, the air clears up and brings about crisp views of the mountain ranges and cool, comfortable trekking weather that lasts till December.

• Winter, on the other hand, is chilly and best suited for those who don’t mind the cold. It offers quieter trails and is ideal for trekking in lower altitudes and the Everest region.

Choosing the right season not only affects your comfort but also your experience. Warm and sunny days improve trek conditions and make those breathtaking views all the clearer. But remember, higher altitudes get chilly, so gear up accordingly. If you’re eyeing quieter trails or celebrating the festive season with a trek, winter might just be your pick.

Book an appointment with your doctor

Before you hit the trails on your Nepal trekking trip, a quick stop at your doctor’s office is a smart move. Make sure your body’s ready for what’s in store. Trekking is a whole-body experience — it tests you physically, challenges you mentally, and even touches you emotionally. That’s why knowing your health status is essential. Whether it’s getting shots to guard against common travel bugs or checking in on any long-term conditions you manage, a pre-trip medical check-up is your first step to a hassle-free trek. It’s all about making sure you’re as ready for Nepal as Nepal is for you.

Sort out your itinerary

Getting to Nepal is a breeze for most travelers, with on-arrival visas available to many. While you can chart out most of your Nepal trekking trip solo, some spots, like the Mustang and Dolpo valleys, need you to link up with a local agency for an organized tour. Don’t pass up the chance to see Lumbini, where Lord Buddha was born, or Boudhanath, a massive stupa and a must-visit site. Places like Swayambhunath stupa (brimming with temples and shrines), Patan Durbar Square, and a day trip to Nagarkot (for unbeatable Himalayan views) should also be on your list.

The treks to Annapurna Basecamp and Everest Basecamp lead the pack in popularity. But there’s more. Consider a homestay for a real Nepali lifestyle experience, school visits for cultural exchange, or monastery stays for spiritual insight.

Contemplating what’s next after Nepal? A trip to Tibet fits seamlessly with easy flights or drives to the Kyirong border. Our weekly Tibet overland tour from Nepal is a fantastic way to continue your adventure, setting off every Saturday for the Tibetan expanse.

You can also consider adding Bhutan to your itinerary. Our Bhutan travel packages can make your trip even more memorable. Visit the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, explore the capital city of Thimphu, and enjoy the tranquility of Punakha Valley. Bhutan’s combination of natural beauty and cultural richness makes it a must-see.

Shoot us a message on our website if you’re ready to begin planning your dream Nepal trekking trip or if you’ve got any questions. Our team of experienced travel experts is on hand to ensure your adventure is everything you’ve hoped for and more.

Tibet Trekking : All You Need to Know

For the adventurous who loves hiking and trekking, Tibet is the perfect destination to satisfy any challenge and adrenaline rush. Its towering mountains, rugged terrain, expansive plains, and sparkling lakes provide stunning views and landscapes that will captivate and impress even the most experienced adventurers. Best of all, Tibet trekking offers a more exclusive experience, as there are fewer trekkers here compared to Nepal. So, if you’re up for this one-of-a-kind experience and opportunity, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Tibet Shambhala Adventure.

Plan your trekking adventure with us!

Getting into Tibet and trekking your way through it can be tough without the help of professional guides and experienced, knowledgeable locals. At Tibet Shambhala Adventure, our local Tibetan staff will work with you to eliminate the complications of planning a safe and enjoyable trip. We are the best local travel agency in the country, with extensive experience in organizing trekking tours on vast plateaus, snow-capped mountains, forested gorges, and lush grasslands.

From arranging permits to your lodging, transportation, meals, and itinerary, our seasoned, educated, and well-trained staff will provide a worry-free experience. Plus, we offer a range of hiking and trekking trips for every skill level—whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a novice hiker. Our Tibet trekking itineraries are sure to be rewarding and challenging at the same time.

If you’re ready, this blog has everything you need to know for a worry-free trip

Traveling to Tibet

Tibet is a restricted country that doesn’t allow independent travel, so you’ll need our help for your trekking trip. At Tibet Shambhala Adventure, we provide prearranged Tibet trekking tours and secure the necessary travel permits.

We recommend getting a Chinese visa, especially if you’re boarding a train or flight from China. Remember to get your Chinese visa at least one month before your trip because we need it to secure your Tibet travel permit from the Tibet Tourism Bureau. (You don’t have to worry about this if you’re a citizen of countries that have mutual visa exemption agreements with China.)

Besides your travel permit and visas, you’ll also need extra permits for Tibet trekking, which only a licensed tour operator like us can arrange.

How to get to Tibet?

There are three ways to get to Tibet for your Trekking trip:

• Via flights from major cities in China or Kathmandu to Lhasa.

• Travel by land from Kathmandu to Lhasa. This is recommended if you prefer to take it slow and have a lot of time to spare since it could take anywhere from 4 to 5 days. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views on the route’s rugged highways.

• Travel by train aboard the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, the world’s highest rail track. It starts in Beijing and takes about 40 hours to Lhasa, with impressive landscapes that include tunnels, mountain passes, vast plains, and high-altitude lakes starting from Xining. Note that you can only book train tickets through a tour operator like us, so don’t think twice about asking us!

When is the best time to go trekking in Tibet?

You can visit Tibet all year, but Tibet trekking is best experienced in spring and summer, specifically from April to October. The weather isn’t too harsh during this time, and many treks are accessible because there’s no snow.

Additionally, many Tibetan festivals occur around these seasons, particularly the Saga Dawa (a month-long celebration of the birth of Buddha, Nirvana, and enlightenment). During your tour, you might also experience the Nagqu horse racing festival and the week-long Shoton festival.

Know before you go

One of the most important things to know before going on a Tibet trekking adventure is that you must be in good physical health and condition.

If you’re new to hiking, take the time to build your stamina. Experts advise going on multi-day hikes elsewhere and traveling to high-altitude areas before you attempt to trek in Tibet. This is because the entire country is on a plateau, with an average altitude of 13,000 ft (4,000 m) above sea level. Plus, most treks will take you above 16,400 ft (5,000 m). If you’re inexperienced and unable to acclimatize to these conditions, acute motion sickness will prevent you from going further.

Note that even highly experienced hikers and mountaineers should still prepare for their Tibet trekking trip. We recommend the following:

• Get Acetazolamide or Diamox before you go, and start taking it at least a day before you fly to Lhasa.
• Take a lot of time to rest and spend at least 2-3 days acclimatizing in Lhasa before you start your trek.
• If you experience light-headedness, headaches, shortness of breath, nausea, and other symptoms of acute motion sickness during your trek, you must immediately go to lower altitudes.

Best places to trek in Tibet:

Tibet trekking itineraries involve plenty of breathtaking places, but here are the most popular ones:

• Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Trek (medium to difficult)
• Everest Kangshung Trek (moderate to difficult)
• Ganden to Samye Trek (very difficult)
• Gyama Valley Trek (medium difficulty)

Things to pack and wear:

Make sure you have warm clothes, even if you’re traveling in the summer, autumn, or spring, because temperatures can drop at higher altitudes. We also recommend investing in high-quality winter gear and layering your clothes to stay warm.

If you need more advice, you can always contact the Tibet Shambhala Adventure team. We’ll make sure your Tibet trekking trip is safe, fun, and memorable. Call +86-13908907271 or email us!

Tour to Tibet: Plan your Tour

Is Tibet on your travel bucket list? Planning your visit does not have to be daunting when you have a dependable and experienced travel agency working for you. You don’t even have to look further because tours to Tibet are our main specialties here at Tibet Shambhala Adventure.

As Tibetans based in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, we pride ourselves on our ability to organize various tours—including adventures, cycling, and trekking. We also have extensive experience organizing special trips that immerse our guests into one-of-a-kind festivals that provide a glimpse of local cultures and traditions. Our goal is to create unforgettable experiences with our tours to Tibet, so share your travel aspirations with us, and we’ll assist in meticulously planning and organizing your itinerary.

At Tibet Shambhala Adventure, we eliminate the complexities of planning a tour. Our local knowledge and experience enable us to provide personalized assistance. We can help you decide what to see, when to visit, and how to plan your adventure. Don’t hesitate to connect with us online or call +86-13908907271!

Planning your tour with Tibet Shambhala Adventure

In this blog, we will share the simplest way to plan tours to Tibet. Here are some steps to preparing and planning your tour.

Step 1: Get the necessary documents

You will need a passport, a Chinese visa, and the required permits to enter and explore Tibet. Let’s take a look at each requirement.

Applying for a Chinese visa

If you don’t already have a passport, you’ll need to apply for one. If you already have a passport, make sure that it remains valid for at least 6 months from the beginning of your trip, with sufficient blank pages for the visa.

You must apply for a Chinese visa from your home country if you’re traveling through China on your way to Tibet. It’s advisable not to mention Tibet as one of your destinations in your visa application to avoid complications. Instead, list a few Chinese cities as your travel destinations.

Note that citizens of countries like Japan, Singapore, Mauritius, Belarus, and a few others may not need a Chinese visa due to visa-free travel agreements with China for short stays. If you’re eligible for visa-free travel, simply provide us with a scan or photo of your passport so we can proceed with obtaining your necessary permits.

Are you traveling through Nepal?

Another way to get to Tibet is by traveling through Nepal. In this case, you need a Chinese group visa, which the Embassy in Nepal can provide.

Securing Tibet permits

Once you have your visa, we can begin processing your permit application for tours to Tibet. Please provide us with clear copies of your visa and passport at least 20 days before your travel date. We assure you that we will handle all the necessary permits for your tour.

You’ll need these permits to board a plane or train to Tibet. If you’re traveling from China or Nepal, we’ll ensure you have the original permits in hand, so there’s no need to worry.

Step 2: Choose your tour

We have a wide range of tours to Tibet that you can browse on our website! You can pick one depending on how long you want to stay, the destinations you would like to explore, your budget, and your preferred activities. If you need help choosing, don’t hesitate to ask us, and we’ll help you make an informed choice.

Types of tours

If you want more flexibility and freedom to explore, we recommend booking one of our private tours to Tibet.

At Tibet Shambhala Adventure, we offer itineraries like the Tibetan Culture & Nature Tour, Central Tibet Cultural Tour, and Tibet Everest & Namtso Tour.

We also provide itineraries that cater to special interests, such as motorbike, trekking and hiking, mountain bike, train, winter, family adventure, and peak climbing.

Step 3: Determine how to get to Tibet

By air:

Flying is the quickest and most popular method to reach Tibet, with numerous flights linking Lhasa to major Chinese cities. To ensure a smooth boarding process, we will provide you with a Tibet Travel Permit. We’ll greet you at the airport upon your arrival.

By train:

It takes around 40 hours to reach Tibet by train from major cities in mainland China, but the beautiful views will make the trip worthwhile!

Overland:

There are several overland routes connecting Tibet with China, India, and Nepal, each offering stunning views. The journey through Everest and the Friendship Highway is particularly notable for its beauty and interest. If you’re coming from China, you can take one of two highways from Chengdu to Lhasa, or you can take the route from Xining.

Step 4: Pack right

Depending on the season and your activities, we can give you a list of suggested items to bring. If you’re going on trekking tours to Tibet, be mindful of the limit porters can carry (which is usually around 8-10kg). You might need to hire a pack animal or leave some things in the hotel or vehicle if you exceed this limit.

Don’t forget to check the airline’s luggage allowance if you’re flying to Tibet, and remember to leave extra room in your luggage for souvenirs if you plan to buy any.

Start planning your tour!

Are you ready to book your tours to Tibet? We’re excited to plan your adventure! Chat with us or email sales@shambhala-adventure.com. You can also leave a message here.

Everything You Need to Know About the Tibet Travel Permit

Are you planning to visit Tibet this year? If so, you’re in for an exciting journey, especially if adventure is what you seek. Tibet is a top destination for hikers and trekkers eager to explore stunning landscapes and ancient territories with views of the Himalayas. When you choose to travel with us, we guarantee a smoother and more enjoyable experience. We take care of all the details for you—including obtaining the Tibet travel permit—for a worry-free trip.

At Tibet Shambhala Adventure, we have over 23 years of experience as a local travel agency in Lhasa, the Tibetan capital. As locals, we have unmatched knowledge and expertise in arranging different itineraries and adventures in Tibet, including trekking, mountain biking, train, peak climbing, family adventure, and winter tours. We are known to provide the most personalized services courtesy of our seasoned, educated, and well-trained staff. You can definitely count on us whether you need help planning your trip or getting the necessary Tibet travel permit.

What is the Tibet travel permit?

The Tibet travel permit is one of the most important documents to possess in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), alongside the Chinese visa. This permit will allow you to get around and visit the places in your itinerary.

The travel permit in Tibet is an official two-page document that contains the following information:

• Page 1: Details about you, the tourist
• Page 2: An outline of your itinerary

The Tibetan Tourism Bureau is the only authority that can approve your itinerary. We advise planning your trip and obtaining your Tibet travel permit ahead of time because not everyone can alter their travel plans once they are set. Generally, the permit is issued within 15 to 20 days. However, processing times may vary, especially during local festivals or when the Tourism Bureau is closed for holidays.

Applying for the permit

Before you get the Tibet travel permit, you need a valid passport and a Chinese visa. If you don’t have these documents, you can apply for them from your home country.

Are you entering Tibet from Nepal? If yes, then you’ll need a Chinese group visa from Kathmandu. Don’t hesitate to ask us for tips and advice! We’ll walk you through the process to eliminate your guesswork and ensure a stress-free experience.

Once your Chinese visa is ready, send us a clear photo or a scan of the passport page with the visa page and your photo, and we’ll take it from there. We’ll need these pages to apply for the Tibet travel permit on your behalf.

When your permit is ready, we’ll provide the original document if you’re flying to Tibet. If you’re traveling by train, we’ll send a clear copy you can print and use for boarding. Be sure to carry it with you throughout your trip. If you’re coming from Nepal, be sure to have your Chinese group visa and meet our guide at the airport to secure your Tibet travel permit.

You might need more than one permit!

Depending on where you are going, you might need two or more permits to get around in Tibet. But you don’t have to worry about that because we’ll take care of everything for you. Here are the types of permits that you might need for your trip:

Tibet travel permit

This is the main permit for your trip. We ensure you receive the original permit if you are flying or taking a train from mainland China to Tibet. We can mail the permit to your hotel before your departure to Tibet or send it to the airport, where you’ll catch a connecting flight to Lhasa.

If you’re traveling from Nepal, you only need a copy of your permit. We’ll arrange for a guide to meet you at the border or airport with your original documents if you’re traveling overland.

Alien travel permit

Besides the Tibet travel permit, you will need an alien travel permit if you are traveling to:

• The East of Tsedang to Samye, Ranwu Lake, or Basum Lake
• The Everest region or to the West, including Ngari, Kailash, and Gyirong
• Shalu or Sakya monasteries near Shigatse

Don’t worry because our team will arrange everything for you when you arrive in Tibet. The Alien Travel Permit can be obtained only in Tsedang, Shigatse, or Gyantse, depending on your travel plans, so we cannot secure it in advance. Rest assured; we only need 1-2 hours to get one.

Military Permit

Some areas require a Military Permit, especially if they border other countries. If you’re traveling to the Gyirong border between Nepal and Tibet, Mount Kailash, Ngari, Guge Kingdom, and Manasarovar Lake, we’ll arrange the necessary paperwork to get this document for you.

Getting the Tibet travel permit and other necessary documents will be a breeze when you travel with us. Allow Tibet Shambhala Adventure to take care of your trip for a worry-free adventure. Call +86 13908907271 or send us a message here.

Beijing Planning Guide: How to Plan a Beijing City Tour

As the capital of China, Beijing is a must-see destination for any traveler looking to explore the country’s rich tapestry of history and modernity. With over 3,000 years of history, Beijing presents a unique fusion of natural beauty, contemporary culture, and ancient heritage, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Our Beijing city tour is designed to introduce you to this magnificent city in a way that’s engaging and truly memorable.

At Tibet Shambhala Adventure, our depth of experience and professional qualifications allow us to offer a wide range of tour and travel services in Beijing. As a Tibetan-owned travel agency, we pride ourselves on creating bespoke tours and tailored itineraries that showcase the uniqueness of the city. Our offerings extend beyond the ordinary. You can expect special experiences such as Chengdu Tours for panda encounters and explorations of Pek-Xian or Shanghai.

Going on a Beijing city tour with us means you can relax while we handle all the details of planning and organizing your journey. If you’re unsure what to do and where to go, let this blog be your guide. Allow us to share tips and insights as a trusted travel agency.

Things to do and where to go

Below are some of the top attractions and activities to consider including in your Beijing city tour:

Discover the over 600-year mystery and history of the Emperor’s Forbidden City

No city tour in Beijing is complete without visiting the Forbidden City. Situated in the heart of the city, it’s an ancient palace complex that once housed 24 Chinese emperors for over 600 years. Today, the museum shows the rich cultural heritage of the country and is best explored by walking for hours through the imperial palaces, central axis, gardens, and pavilions.

Tiananmen Square

From the Forbidden City, you can drop by Tiananmen Square to explore Mao Zedong’s mausoleum and the Monument to the People’s Heroes. This historic landmark is also one of the world’s biggest city squares.

Hike the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is another must-see destination on your Beijing city tour. Known as among the greatest wonders of the world, it’s just a 1.5 to 2-hour drive outside downtown in Mutianyu—one of the wall’s best-preserved areas. This less-crowded section offers breathtaking scenery. For convenience, toboggans and cable cars are available to take you up and down the wall. Visitors usually spend 3 to 4 hours here, providing ample time for photography and some hiking.

Stroll or ride a rickshaw along the Hutong area

The Hutongs feature courtyard residences in traditional alleyways, making them vastly different from the imperial gardens and palaces. The best way to explore this area is via a stroll to glimpse the local life, although you can also ride a rickshaw.

Experience the Temple of Heaven

Emperors used to visit the Temple of Heaven to pray for a good harvest and to worship. Today, the temple complex has an awe-inspiring imperial structure. You can join the locals for Tai Chi exercises in the park in the morning.

Visit Confucius Temple and Guozijian

If you love Chinese culture, be sure to include these destinations in your Beijing city tour. Confucius Temple has been around since 1302 and is dedicated to the great Chinese teacher and philosopher. Meanwhile, Guozijian or the Imperial Academy hosted higher learning from the Tang Dynasty.

Climb Jingshan Park for panoramic views of the city and the Forbidden City

This historic and beautiful park is in Central Beijing, just north of the Forbidden City. It’s the perfect vantage point for viewing the ancient palace complex and seeing how it contrasts with the modern buildings and skyscrapers of the central business district.

How many days should you tour Beijing?

The length of your Beijing city tour should depend on how much you want to see and your interests. We recommend spending at least 3 to 5 days to make the most of its attractions, culture, and history. However, if you only have one day, we can take you to see the highlights with a custom tour that includes the Forbidden City and Mutianyu (The Great Wall).

The best time to visit

The best time to go on a Beijing city tour is in the spring, from April to May, and in fall or autumn, from September to October. It’s when the weather is pleasant and mild, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies for walking and hiking. These months are also less crowded and typically more affordable compared to summer (the peak tourist season).

Spring is also a great time to enjoy the flowers in bloom, such as peonies and cherry blossoms. The weather is pleasant for cycling and visiting more outdoor attractions.

Winter from December to January tends to be cold. That said, the charm of the city blanketed in snow (coupled with fewer tourists) might make this season appealing if you’re comfortable with the chilly temperatures.

Explore Beijing with us!

Let our experts at Tibet Shambhala Adventure plan your Beijing city tour for a more unforgettable and authentic experience. We carefully design these tours to your needs and budget, whether you require a flexible itinerary or a more exclusive way to travel. Call +86-13908907271 to get started!

Travel around the Lhasa city known as Linka in Tibetan / Tibet treking

As the spring slowly goes by, the summer is coming towards us and the weather in Tibet is getting much warmer and comfortable. The mountain and trees are turning into more green. Many of the local residents in Lhasa are beginning to travel around the Lhasa city known as Linka in Tibetan. Since the Covid is still spreading in mainland China and around the world, the Tibetans don’t have chance to travel outside Lhasa so the Linka which means summer picnic is becoming popular especially for the last two years during this pandemic.

Lots of families, relatives and friends gather together and go to picnic places which are not far from Lhasa city. There are several nice destinations of picnic places around Lhasa city which are Tadong village which is on the way to the airport at the distance of around 30km distance. Xie village which is to the east side of Lhasa city at the distance of around 15km and Penam village which is to the further east side of Lhasa city at the distance of around 37km. The most beautiful picnic place among them is the Penam village as the valley of the Penam village is dominated by beautiful Tibetan traditional houses, beautiful green barley fields and rapeseed, beautiful green pasture lands and a big nomad camps.

During your trip to Tibet, instead of visiting lots of monasteries and temples, you can add one day travel around the Lhasa city to have picnic with the local Tibetans. You can experience to talk with local people, get to know more about Tibetan culture and you can experience how to milk the Yak, how to make butter tea, how to make Yogurt etc. At the same time, you can have around 4-5 hours trekking in the valley and at the same time, if you like to ride horses or Yaks, you can also experience that.

If you are going to have a Tibet trekking in your trip program, a day travel around the Lhasa city is very important as you can go to a little high altitude than Lhasa city and you can do a half day hiking in the mountain so having this much activity can help you to acclaimatize to the high altitude and it will definitely help you to get used to the altitude and make sure that you will not have a problem of altitude during your Tibet trekking.

There are also many other places that you can travel around the Lhasa city. Example, you can take a day trip to Tsurphu monastery and on the way, there is also a very beautiful picnic place and you can enjoy having picnic with local Tibetans. There you can experience the packed local Tibetan traditional food. The tradition of Tibetans when they have picnic is that they prepare a lot of food for the picnic and make all the food ready from home. Usually, they bring lots of steamed Yak meat, steamed Potatoes, breads, Yogurd, milk, tea, butter, Tsampa etc. If you go to any kinds of picnic places without taking your own food, don’t worry that you will get lunch easily as those Tibetans will invite you to their places and offer you meals with them.

There is another good place to travel around the Lhasa city which is a day trip to Ganden monastery or Darkyepa monastery and on the way, you can also find several different kinds of picnic places and one of the picnic places underneath the Ganden monastery is kind of popular picnic place for local people in Lhasa as this picnic has a very nice stream river and in the river, the children can play by sailing boats in the river and they can sail from here to there.