The Ganden to Samye Trek is one of our best-selling tour packages in central Tibet, offering an unforgettable trekking experience. This journey takes you to the heart of Tibetan culture, starting in the holy city of Lhasa. Before embarking on the trek, we will explore Lhasa’s historic sites, giving you time to acclimate to the altitude and prepare for the adventure ahead.
The Ganden to Samye route is a fascinating trek, winding through breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries, the serene Yanglung Valley, and the majestic Yarlung River. This adventure is perfect for those seeking both cultural immersion and outdoor exploration.
As you ascend to higher altitudes, we will provide you with a detailed packing list, including essential clothing and gear for trekking above 4,000 meters. Warm, layered clothing is highly recommended. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need further details.
For a unique cultural experience, consider joining our Ganden Ngachoe Festival tour, held at Ganden Monastery, for an enriching addition to your journey.
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Upon arrival, our English-speaking Tibetan tour guide and driver will meet you at the airport or train station and transfer you to your hotel in downtown Lhasa. Upon arrival at the hotel, your Tibet tour operator will provide important instructions regarding the tour. The remaining balance should be paid at this time.
Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa
Today, we explore Lhasa’s most iconic landmarks. Our first stop is the Potala Palace, built in the 7th century, where you’ll marvel at its audience halls, jeweled and golden burial chortens (stupa tombs) of past Dalai Lamas, and magnificent Buddhist frescoes and Thangkas.
In the afternoon, visit Jokhang Temple, the holiest temple in Tibet, built during King Songtsen Gampo’s reign by Princess Wencheng. Afterward, stroll through Barkhor Street, a vibrant marketplace where you can admire and purchase traditional Tibetan artifacts, religious items, antiques, books, musical instruments, Thangkas, and traditional Tibetan clothing.
Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa
After breakfast, we start our tour at 9:00 AM with a visit to Drepung Monastery, located 8 km northwest of Lhasa. Founded in 1416 by Jamyang Choeje, Drepung was once home to 10,000 monks and housed the Ganden Podrang, the administrative center during the Fifth Dalai Lama’s time before moving to the Potala Palace.
After lunch, we visit Sera Monastery, founded in 1419 by Tsongkhapa’s disciple Jamchen Choeje. One of the monastery’s highlights is the famous monastic debates, where monks engage in lively discussions about Buddhist philosophy in the courtyard.
Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa
Today, we set out for Ganden Monastery, established in 1409 by Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Geluk sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is also the seat of the Ganden Tripa, the highest-ranking monk after passing a rigorous philosophical debate test.
After exploring the monastery’s interior, we take the scenic kora (circumambulation) trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, Lhasa River, and nearby villages. Later, we drive down to Trubshi Village, where we set up camp.
Overnight: Camp
After loading our supplies onto yaks, we begin our trek to Hepo, a small village with around 30 houses. A red and yellow shrine dedicated to the village’s Yul Lha (local protector deity), the Divine White Yak, marks the village’s edge.
From here, we ascend toward the Shuga Pass, where wildflowers bloom along the Tashi-Chu River. About an hour’s walk from Hepo, we pass Ani Pagong, a small nunnery perched above the trail.
Overnight: Camp
We follow the left side of the valley, ascending toward Shuga Pass (5,255m), the highest point of the trek. The pass is marked with fluttering prayer flags and yak skulls. From the summit, we enjoy sweeping views before beginning a steep descent through a rocky trail.
As we enter the valley, we walk along the Chitu Gang River, passing nomad camps with traditional black tents guarded by Tibetan mastiffs. After crossing the river, we reach our campsite.
Overnight: Camp
Today, we trek to Palang Tsodue Lake, ascending a steep hill before following an easier path through the valley. We reach Chitu Pass (5,210m), where we encounter three small sacred lakes, stone cairns, and another nomad campsite.
As we descend, we pass through fields of willow, scrub, and wild rosebushes, eventually arriving at a larger nomadic settlement where Tibetan herders camp. After crossing a small stream, we set up camp for the night.
Overnight: Camp
On our final trekking day, we hike through a dense forest before reaching the Gen Do Shrine, dedicated to Droji Yudrukma, the local protector goddess.
Continuing, we pass Yamalung Hermitage, where ancient meditation caves once housed Dalai Lamas and other revered retreat masters. After further trekking, we reach Hepori, eventually arriving at Samye Monastery, the first Buddhist monastery in Tibet.
Overnight: Samye Monastery Guesthouse
In the morning, we explore Samye Monastery, which boasts over 1,200 years of rich Buddhist history and stunning architectural designs.
Next, we visit Chimpu Hermitage, known for its ancient meditation caves, where Guru Rinpoche and Khandro Yeshe Tsogyal meditated in the 7th century. Even today, this area remains a significant retreat site for Buddhist practitioners.
Afterward, we drive back to Lhasa.
Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa
Transfer to Gongkar Airport for your onward journey.
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The trek is moderately challenging, covering approximately 80 km (50 miles) over 4–5 days. Trekkers must cross high-altitude passes, with the highest point being Shuga Pass (5,255m). Good physical fitness and prior trekking experience at high altitudes are recommended.
The best seasons for this trek are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) when the weather is stable, with mild temperatures and clear skies. July and August can be rainy, while winter (November–March) is extremely cold, with heavy snow blocking passes.
Yes, trekking in Tibet requires multiple permits, including the Tibet Travel Permit, Alien Travel Permit, and sometimes a Military Permit. These permits are arranged by your tour operator, as independent travel is not allowed in Tibet.
Essential items include:Warm clothing: Layered outfits, windproof jackets, gloves, and hats for high-altitude weather Trekking gear: Sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, a sleeping bag, and a backpack Personal items: Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, water purification tablets, and high-energy snacks Medical supplies: Altitude sickness medication, first aid kit, and any personal prescriptions
Accommodation is a mix of camping and basic guesthouses. In Lhasa and Samye, you’ll stay in hotels or guesthouses, but during the trek, camping is necessary as there are no established lodges. Your tour operator will provide tents, sleeping bags, and food supplies for camping nights.
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Adventures In Tibet is a highly trusted and reliable travel agency in Lhasa, Tibet, renowned for offering the best-organized tours across the Tibetan plateau. With expert planning, personalized services, and a commitment to exceptional experiences, we ensure every traveler enjoys a seamless journey to the Roof of the World.
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