Overview

Journey into the heart of the Tibetan Plateau, where earth and sky converge. Western Sichuan (Chuanxi) is a land of breathtaking extremes: sacred, snow-capped peaks, vast alpine grasslands, and deep, culturally rich valleys. This meticulously crafted expedition goes beyond the scenic drives, offering unparalleled access to living Tibetan Buddhist culture and the ultimate in remote, high-altitude luxury. It is an immersive adventure for the soul and the senses.

Tour Highlights

Witness the celestial beauty of Mount Gongga, the "King of Sichuan Mountains," with a private sunrise viewing from a secluded, expert-chosen vantage point at Hailuogou Glacier Park.

Embark on a private, guided pilgrimage to the remote Yading Nature Reserve, hiking amidst the three sacred peaks of Chenrezig, Jampayang, and Chanadorje, an experience reserved for the most determined travelers.

Engage in an intimate audience with a respected Rinpoche (incarnate lama) at a secluded monastery, gaining profound insights into Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and practice.

Stay at the Songtsam Lodges, a collection of breathtakingly designed properties that offer unparalleled comfort and cultural immersion in the most spectacular locations, from Shangri-La to Tagong.

Traverse the high-altitude alpine vistas of the Tagong Grasslands on horseback, led by local Tibetan guides, followed by a private, gourmet picnic with the majestic Yala Snow Mountain as your backdrop.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Arrive in Chengdu / Acclimatization

Arrive in Chengdu, the vibrant gateway to the Himalayas. Settle into your luxury hotel. Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring refined Sichuan cuisine, followed by a briefing from your expert tour leader on the journey ahead.

Day 2 | Chengdu / Kangding / Tagong

Fly to Kangding, the "Song of the Alpine City," beginning your ascent onto the plateau. Drive to Tagong, with stunning views unfolding along the way. Check into your boutique lodge, designed in harmony with the environment.

Day 3 | Tagong Grasslands Immersion

Experience the vastness of the Tagong Grasslands. Enjoy a private horseback riding excursion across the open plains. Visit the magnificent Tagong Monastery and the local prayer wheel path, absorbing the deep spirituality of the region. A specially arranged gourmet picnic lunch amidst this stunning landscape is a highlight.

Day 4 | Tagong / Litang / Daocheng Yading

Journey to Daocheng, passing through Litang, one of the world's highest towns. The drive itself is a spectacle, crossing high mountain passes. Arrive in Daocheng and check into your luxury hotel, specially chosen for its comfort at high altitude.

Day 5 | Yading Nature Reserve Sacred Pilgrimage

A full-day, private exploration of Yading Nature Reserve. With your guide, undertake a moderate hike to the Pearl Lake and Luorong Pasture, surrounded by the three pure, sacred peaks. This is a day of profound natural beauty and spiritual significance, with minimal crowds.

Day 6 | Daocheng Yading / Shangri-La (Zhongdian)

Travel to Shangri-La, crossing the provincial border into Yunnan. En route, stop at the breathtaking Waxing Moon Bay. Check into the renowned Songtsam Lodge, your sanctuary of comfort and style.

Day 7 | Shangri-La Cultural Depth

Visit the Songzanlin Monastery, often called the "Little Potala Palace." The experience is elevated by a private meeting with a monastery Rinpoche. Later, explore the old town and participate in a private Thangka painting session with a local artist.

Day 8 | Shangri-La / Hailuogou Glacier Park / Moxi

Return to Sichuan, heading to Hailuogou Glacier Park at the foot of Mount Gongga. Stay at the only hotel within the park, allowing for exclusive early-morning access to the glacier viewing platform.

Day 9 | Mount Gongga Sunrise / Chengdu

Wake before dawn for a private vehicle transfer to the best viewing platform. Witness the spectacular sunrise illuminating the peak of Mount Gongga. After breakfast, return to Chengdu by air.

Day 10 | Depart from Chengdu

Enjoy a leisurely morning. Transfer to the airport for your departure, carrying with you the profound memories of mountains, monasteries, and the open sky.

What's Included

• Hotels are included in the itinerary.
• China's domestic flights/trains are specified in the itinerary.
• Entrance fees.
• Meals are detailed in the itinerary.
• Private transfers.
• Private English-speaking guide and driver.
• Service charges and taxes.

Notes

• The itinerary outlined above can be customized to align with your personal interests and preferences. Please feel free to share your thoughts with us, and we will gladly make the necessary adjustments.
• Pricing is subject to change based on the itinerary, activities, travel season, number of participants, and hotel selection. We provide accommodations across all levels for our tours, including renowned 5-star hotel chains and well-located 4-star hotels at various destinations.