Day 01: Arrive in Xining
Arrival: Arrive in Xining (by air or train).
Activities: Transfer to your hotel, relax, and acclimate to the high-altitude environment.
Optional: Evening walk in the city or explore local cuisine.
Overnight: Xining.
Day 02: Sightseeing in Xining
Highlights:
Northern Buddhist Temple (Hanging Monastery): Admire this unique architectural marvel on a mountainside.
Sun and Moon Monastery: Visit this historic monastery offering panoramic views.
Dongguan Giant Mosque: Explore one of the largest mosques in China with rich cultural heritage.
Overnight: Xining.
Day 03: Day Trip to Qinghai Lake
Morning: Drive to Qinghai Lake, the largest saltwater lake in China.
Activities:
Explore the lake’s picturesque landscapes.
Optional: Visit Bird Island (seasonal) or enjoy a short trek/bike ride along the lake’s shore.
Return: Drive back to Xining in the evening.
Overnight: Xining.
Day 04: Drive to Tongren via Ta’er Si (Kumbum Monastery)
En Route: Visit Ta’er Si (Kumbum Monastery), a major Tibetan Buddhist site famous for its butter sculptures and exquisite murals.
Arrival in Tongren: Transfer to your hotel, with the rest of the evening free to explore.
Overnight: Tongren.
Day 05: Explore Tongren
Highlights:
Repkong Art Villages: Visit workshops renowned for their Thangka paintings and Tibetan art.
Gonglung Monastery: Experience the local religious practices and spiritual ambiance.
Cultural Insight: Gain a deeper understanding of Tibetan art and local traditions.
Overnight: Tongren.
Day 06: Drive to Xiahe – Visit Labrang Monastery
Morning: Drive to Xiahe, passing scenic Tibetan landscapes.
Afternoon: Visit Labrang Monastery, known for its rich library, extensive prayer wheels, and Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Overnight: Xiahe.
Day 07: Around Xiahe – Sangke Grasslands & Tibetan Villages
Highlights:
Explore the serene Sangke Grasslands.
Visit nearby Tibetan villages, experiencing nomadic culture and hospitality.
Optional: Horseback riding on the grasslands.
Overnight: Xiahe.
Day 08: Drive to Langmusi
Scenic Drive: Head to Langmusi, a charming Tibetan town surrounded by mountains.
Evening: Leisurely explore the town or watch a sunset over the hills.
Overnight: Langmusi.
Day 09: Langmusi Sightseeing
Highlights:
Sertri Gompa: Visit this tranquil monastery with its peaceful surroundings.
Kirti Monastery: Explore its striking architecture and sacred relics.
Optional: Short trek to scenic spots near the village.
Overnight: Langmusi.
Day 10: Drive to Songpan
Journey: Enjoy the scenic mountain drive to Songpan, a historic walled town.
Afternoon: Stroll through Songpan’s old streets and visit its ancient city walls.
Optional: Consider visiting the nearby Huanglong Scenic Area if time permits.
Overnight: Songpan.
Day 11: Drive to Chengdu & End Trip
Drive: Transfer to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province.
Activities:
If time allows, explore highlights like Wide and Narrow Alleys or Jinli Ancient Street.
End Trip: Depart from Chengdu or continue with optional extensions to Leshan Giant Buddha or Mount Emei.
11 Days
kham and Amdo
