10 days G318 Sichuan-Tibet Highway

On this day, you have the flexibility to arrange your schedule and make your way to Chengdu.

For those who arrive in Chengdu in the morning, you can visit the center of Chengdu, Chunxi Road, and the thousand-year-old ancient temple, Daci Temple. You can also check out the Chinese and Western architecture of Taikoo Li and the IFS Panda Climbing Wall.

For those who arrive in Chengdu in the afternoon, you can head to Jinli Old Street and Kuanzhai Alley to experience the most leisurely and comfortable slow life in Chengdu. Alternatively, you can visit Xiaojiuguan , the tavern mentioned in Zhao Lei’s song “Chengdu”, and have a memorable experience.

After breakfast, drive west from Chengdu towards Western Sichuan, passing through the world-famous “Rainy City”, Ya’an. Take the Yakang Expressway, cross the Erlang Mountain Tunnel, and arrive in Kangding, the capital of the Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, which is famously mentioned in the “Kangding Love Song”.

After that, you will pass through Zheduo Mountain Pass, which sits at an altitude of 4,298 meters. The name Zheduo Mountain derives from its steep terrain and the unique winding road that features “nine bends and eighteen turns.” Known as the “first pass of Kham”, crossing Zheduo Mountain marks the official entry into the Kham Tibetan region. Furthermore, the Zheduo Mountain Pass serves as the initial pass on the Sichuan-Tibet Highway to reach an altitude exceeding 4,000 meters, signifying the transition from the Sichuan Basin and the Dadu River Valley to the western plateau of Sichuan. On clear days, you can catch a glimpse of the magnificent Gongga Mountain, also referred to as the “King of Shu Mountains”, towering at an elevation of 7,508 meters, from this vantage point.

Continuing your journey, you will drive to Xinduqiao, situated in the western part of Kangding City, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, at an altitude of approximately 3,460 meters. Although not officially designated as a scenic area, Xinduqiao is often called the “Photographer’s Corridor”. It is renowned for its enchanting lighting, vast grasslands, numerous streams, undulating mountain ranges, scattered Tibetan villages, and tranquil scenes of grazing cattle and sheep.

After enjoying the captivating views in Xinduqiao, you will proceed to Yajiang County for your accommodation.

After breakfast, start a scenic drive from Nyingchi to Basomtso Lake (3538 meters), an alpine wonder in Gongbo’gyamda County. Also called Basom Tso Lake or Dragsum Tso Lake, known as “Green Water Lake” in Tibetan, its turquoise waters reflect surrounding snow – capped peaks. As a national forest park and 5A scenic area, it has ever – changing views. It’s a sacred site for Tibetan Buddhists, especially Nyingma sect followers, linked to Guru Rinpoche and Gesar King. The route to the lake is through beautiful valleys and mountains.

Once at the lake, soak in its tranquility. Visiting Tashi Island is essential. Home to the 17th – century Tsozong Monastery with precious relics, hike around the island. See the Peach Embracing Pine, remains of the water burial platform, and the “Letter Tree” with natural Tibetan letters on leaves. Pay respects at the sacred well. Then, head to Jieba Village for views of the lake and peaks like the “King’s Throne” and “Burning Flame”, and experience Tibetan culture.

After the visit, drive about 5 – 6 hours back to Lhasa.

Today, explore Lhasa by visiting iconic spots. Start with the world – famous Potala Palace, a World Heritage and on the 50 – yuan note. It’s Tibet’s landmark and once the Dalai Lama’s winter home. Climb 365 steps to the Red Palace at 3,700m for a Lhasa panorama. Admire its art, carvings, and hear stories of Songtsen Gampo. Note visit order may vary by ticket time, group visit is required, and no indoor photos.

Next, head to the 1300 – year – old Jokhang Temple, a global Buddhist pilgrimage site. Built for Songtsen Gampo’s wives, it houses a precious 12 – year – old Sakyamuni statue. Admire its architecture and watch pilgrims pray. Visit order depends on ticket reservation.

Finally, stroll on Barkhor Street near Jokhang. Once for kora, now a market for yak butter tea, Tibetan clothes, and handicrafts.

It is time to end your 10 Days Sichuan Tibet Tour, and your guide will escort you to the airport/train station for your flight or high-speed train to your next destination.

Thank you for choosing us for your China tour, and we are always here, working for you, and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Have a safe journey!