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Lhasa And Yamdrok Lake Tour

The journey starts from lhasa in the 1st day. The 5 day long trip comprises of blend of temple and pilgrimage sites to monasteries and lakes.Culturally rich places with natural attraction is what you can expect from this trip.

Duration

5 Days

Difficulty

Beginner

Requires no prior experience and fits for people with basic physical ability

Best Season

April to November

Trip Code

CT-10098

Destination

Tibet

Activity

CoreTreks Special

Start / End Point

Lhasa / Lhasa

Route

Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Lhasa

Lhasa And Yamdrok Lake Tour Highlights

  • Experience the perfect fusion of the classic Lhasa tour with a scenic drive to Yamdrok Lake.
  • Embark on a full-day excursion to Lhasa, often called the “land of the Holiness.”
  • Explore the majestic Potala Palace, the esteemed winter palace of the Dalai Lama.
  • Visit Jokhang Temple, home to revered statues of Shakyamuni Buddha.
  • Engage in a serene circular walk around the sacred Jokhang Temple.
  • Wander through the bustling Barkhor Street, a renowned pilgrim circuit in Lhasa.
  • Attend a mesmerizing prayer ceremony at Drepung Monastery, one of the world’s largest monasteries.
  • Witness the intellectual prowess of Buddhist debates at the esteemed Sera Monastery.
  • Indulge in the sweeping views of Yamdrok Lake from the scenic S307 pass between Lhasa and Gyantse.
  • Journey across mountain passes toward Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes.
  • Pause for a short stopover at Kamba La Pass, a magnificent mountain pass in Tibet.
  • Delight in birdwatching along the tranquil banks of Yamdrok Lake.
  • Bask in the serenity as the lake sparkles in shades of blue under the mountain backdrop.
  • Take leisurely strolls along the shores of the enchanting Yamdrok Lake.
  • Admire the stunning scenery of the holy lake, framed by majestic snow-capped mountains.
  • Spot fascinating wildlife such as wild goats and foxes in the grasslands surrounding Yamdrok Lake.
  • Capture a photo of the Tibetan Mastiff, a beautiful breed of dog.
  • Immerse yourself in the ancient Tibetan culture, traditions, and lifestyle.
  • Gain insights into the rich traditions of Tibetan Buddhism and its profound significance.

Lhasa And Yamdrok Lake Tour Overview

The Lhasa and Yamdrok Lake Tour combines cultural discovery with remarkable natural scenery. This five-day adventure takes visitors on a captivating journey through the historic landmarks of Lhasa city, including the iconic Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Drepung, and Sera Monastery. Additionally, the tour includes a scenic drive to Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet's three holy lakes, renowned for its awe-inspiring setting amidst rugged mountains. Suitable for all ages and available year-round, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a perfect mix of spirituality and natural splendor.

The Lhasa and Yamdrok Lake Tour seamlessly weaves together Tibetan culture, spirituality, and natural beauty. From the cultural treasures of Lhasa to the tranquil shores of Yamdrok Lake, this journey promises an unforgettable experience. Whether standing in awe of the Potala Palace, engaging in the vibrant atmosphere of Barkhor Street, or reveling in the tranquility of Yamdrok Lake, this tour promises to leave travelers with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Lhasa And Yamdrok Lake Tour Itinerary

Day 01

Arrival In Lhasa, Tibet

Drive Hours

1 hour

Highest Altitude

3,650 m

Arrival in Lhasa, Tibet (3,650m/11,980ft) – Transfer to Hotel and Tour Preparation Welcome to Lhasa, the spiritual land of Gods! Upon arrival at Lhasa airport, our Tibetan guide will greet you and assist you with the transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a scenic one-hour drive along the riverside to Lhasa, allowing yourself to acclimatize to the high altitude. Take some rest and prepare for the upcoming tour.

Hotel

Day 02

Lhasa Tour - Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, And Barkhor Street

Highest Altitude

3,650 m

Begin your Lhasa tour with an early start. Explore the magnificent Potala Palace, an iconic landmark of Lhasa, and the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. Enjoy the palace’s exquisite architecture, intricate murals, and priceless religious relics. Next, visit the sacred Jokhang Temple, where you can witness the holiest statue of Buddha, and take a leisurely walk around Barkhor Street, known for its bustling market and traditional Tibetan handicrafts.

 

Hotel

Day 03

Lhasa Tour - Drepung Monastery And Sera Monastery

Highest Altitude

3,650 m

In the morning, visit two significant monasteries in Lhasa. Explore the vast Drepung Monastery, once home to thousands of monks, and admire the monastery’s grandeur and spiritual ambiance. Afterward, visit Sera Monastery, famous for its philosophical debates and vibrant Tibetan Buddhist culture. Observe the monks engaging in enlightening discussions and explore the monastery’s impressive architecture.

 

Hotel

Day 04

Day Trip To Yamdrok Lake

Drive Hours

4-6 hours

Highest Altitude

4,441 m

Set out on an inspiring day trip to Yamdrok Lake in Nangartse County, Shannan Prefecture. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Yarlung Tsangpo River, passing through traditional settlements that highlight the charm of rural Tibetan life. Make a short stop at the picturesque Kamba La Pass (4,794m) to admire the stunning view of Yamdrok Lake and capture its turquoise beauty. Continue your journey to the lake’s shore, where the colors of the water shift with the light, set against Mt. Nyenchen Khangsar on the horizon. Immerse yourself in the serene environment, spot local wildlife, and witness the beauty of migratory birds.

 

Hotel

Day 05

Departure From Lhasa, Tibet

Highest Altitude

3,650 m

Today marks the end of your Lhasa and Yamdrok Lake Tour. After breakfast, check out from the hotel, and our guide will accompany you to the airport for your onward journey. If you desire, you can extend your trip to explore more cultural sights in Tibet or visit neighboring countries such as Nepal, India, or Bhutan.

Not satisfied with this itinerary?

CoreTreks offers a customized itinerary option that allows you to personalize your trek according to your preferences and requirements.

Altitude in:

Temperature by Month at Yamdrok lake

Trip Includes

  • Tibet travel permit and all necessary permits for Tibet
  • Entrance fees for all tourist sites mentioned in the itinerary
  • Knowledgeable English-speaking Tibetan local tour guide
  • A comfortable and safe vehicle with a reliable Tibetan local driver (4WD land cruiser to minibus depending on group size)
  • Accommodation in hotels of your chosen class (5-star luxury, 4-star comfortable, 3-star economic, or budget hostel/guesthouse/tent)
  • Domestic flight/train tickets as per the itinerary
  • All meals specified in the itinerary
  • Tourist accident/casualty insurance
  • First aid kit

Trip Excludes

  • International flights to and from China
  • Chinese visa (assistance available for visa application)
  • Domestic flights/trains not mentioned in the itinerary (discounted booking service available)
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary (USD 3-15 per person for meals in Tibet)
  • Tips and gratuities for tour guides and driver
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, snacks, soft drinks (alcoholic beverages should be avoided during the Tibet trip), optional tour activities, etc.

Please note

We can assist you with the Chinese visa application and provide discounted booking services for additional domestic flights/trains.

Essential info for Lhasa And Yamdrok Lake Tour

Exploring Lhasa:

The tour commences with two days of sightseeing in Lhasa, where visitors delve into the heart of Tibetan Buddhism. The UNESCO World Heritage site, Potala Palace, serves as the first stop. As the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama, the Potala Palace showcases the grandeur and artistry of Tibetan architecture. Visitors can explore the Dalai Lama’s former living quarters, ceremonial rooms, and sacred chambers, while also taking in panoramic views of Lhasa city from the palace heights.

Palacio de Potala - 02.JPG

The tour continues to Jokhang Temple, a revered pilgrimage site that offers a glimpse into Tibetan cultural and ritual practices. Inside the temple, visitors can witness the sacred statue of Buddha Sakyamuni, believed to have been created when he was just twelve years old. For sweeping views of Lhasa and the Potala Palace, ascend to the rooftop of a nearby temple. Outside, the famous Barkhor Street invites visitors to partake in the age-old tradition of kora, a spiritual circumambulation, while engaging with locals and pilgrims and indulging in souvenir shopping.

Drepung And Sera Monasteries:

The tour also includes visits to two prominent monastic complexes, Drepung and Sera Monasteries. Drepung, once the world’s largest monastery with thousands of monks, offers an opportunity to explore its monastery halls, assembly areas, and impressive Buddha statues associated with the Dalai Lamas. Sera Monastery, located just north of central Lhasa, is renowned for its unique Buddhist debates. Visitors can witness lively intellectual exchanges among the resident monks, creating a vibrant and enlightening atmosphere.

 

The Enchanting Journey To Yamdrok Lake:

After exploring Lhasa, continue along the winding road toward Yamdrok Lake, following the Yarlung Tsangpo River and passing through traditional settlements along the way. Traveling over the 4,500-meter mountain pass of Kamba La, visitors are greeted with a spellbinding vista of the turquoise-colored lake set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Yamdrok Lake, considered one of the world’s most beautiful lakes, captivates with its pristine waters and stunning surroundings.

Yamdrok-tso.jpg

Legends And Spirituality:

According to local mythology, Yamdrok Lake was formed by the scattered turquoise jewels from a goddess’s earring, which she bestowed upon the Tibetan people. The shape of the lake is said to resemble an earring. Additionally, it is believed that after the passing of the Dalai Lama, senior monks perform sacred rituals and toss holy objects into the lake to identify the reflection of the deceased Dalai Lama’s soul, adding an aura of spirituality to the already awe-inspiring landscape. Each year, countless pilgrims from across Tibet visit the lake, drawn by its beauty and spiritual significance.

Group Photo With Traditional Bhutanese culture
Traditional Bhutanese Culture

Nature’s Wonders and Birdlife:

Yamdrok Lake is a treasure trove of natural wonders, offering visitors a feast for the eyes. Its clear waters change hues with the angle of the sun, offering visitors a magical spectacle. Along the lakeshore, avid birdwatchers can spot various species, including pigeons, yellow ducks, cormorants, swans, and the majestic bar-headed goose. The surrounding landscapes feature snow-capped mountains, small islands, pastures, and historic temples, creating a rich blend of nature and heritage.

Lhasa And Yamdrok Lake Tour Additional Information

Equipment And Gears

To prepare for your trek in Nepal, it’s essential to consider both the specific route and the time of year. Here is a Nepal trekking packing list to help you pack wisely. Here’s our Nepal Trekking packing list.

Travellers Reviews

66 Reviews in TripAdvisor

Advisor link
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Join our Fixed Departure Group Trips

Our fixed group tours are thoughtfully scheduled and offer specific departure dates, providing a fantastic opportunity for both solo traveler and groups to come together. Read more about fixed departure.

Lhasa And Yamdrok Lake Tour Departure Date

5 Days

Trip Days

4 Oct, 2026

Start Sunday

8 Oct, 2026

End Thursday

3

Pax Booked

12

Group Size

Booking Open

Status

Lhasa And Yamdrok Lake Tour

5 Days

Trip Days

11 Oct, 2026

Start Sunday

15 Oct, 2026

End Thursday

1

Pax Booked

12

Group Size

Booking Open

Status

Lhasa And Yamdrok Lake Tour

5 Days

Trip Days

18 Oct, 2026

Start Sunday

22 Oct, 2026

End Thursday

0

Pax Booked

10

Group Size

Booking Open

Status

Lhasa And Yamdrok Lake Tour

5 Days

Trip Days

25 Oct, 2026

Start Sunday

29 Oct, 2026

End Thursday

2

Pax Booked

12

Group Size

Booking Open

Status

Lhasa And Yamdrok Lake Tour

Plan your private Trip

If these dates do not suit your plans, please contact us to request alternative dates. We are more than happy to customise the itinerary and schedule to better fit your needs.

There is no additional cost on the private trip. Group discount will be applied on checkout.

EXCELLENT
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Nabaraj Poudel
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Best team ever. We had a very good experience with the team during Annapurna Base camp trek.
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سلطان المطيري
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I had an amazing experience with CoreTreks during my hiking trip in Nepal. The guide was professional, friendly, and always made sure I was safe and comfortable. The trip was very well-organized, and the views were absolutely breathtaking. I highly recommend Core Trek to anyone planning to visit Nepal — they made the journey unforgettable!
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nisanat nimmansoontorn
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Nepal with Core treks by Mr. Nim was a dream come true! The Himalayas were breathtaking, and the culture was so rich. Mr. Nim was an amazing guide. Ge always make sure that we ll had a great time there. From trekking through the mountains to exploring ancient temples, every moment was unforgettable. I highly recommend this trip to anyone looking for an authentic Nepalese adventure.
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Manish bhatta
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Best tours and trekking services provider in Nepal, love the services done by Mr. Sailendra

Owner's reply
Thank you sir
EXCELLENT
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Based on 66 reviews
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margherita c
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langtang yala peak gosaikunda trek Langtang, Yala peak, Gosaikunda trek. Trekking bardzo dobrze zaplanowany. Bardzo bogaty w różnorodne doświadczenia od trekkingu z pięknymi widokami, wspinaczką na Yala Peak po zetknięcie z lokalną kulturą tybetańską, doskonale dobrany do moich potrzeb. Ponieważ szłam solo czułam się bardzo bezpiecznie z moim przewodnikiem Raj i porterem Baba, . Stanowiliśmy zgrany team. Pełen profesjonalizm ! Na koniec pobytu w Nepalu miła niespodzianka ze strony właściciela pana Nim.
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Hartmut K profile picture
Hartmut K
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Langtang Valley Trek Adventure In April 2026 we went trekking in the Langtang Valley and towards Yala peak with Core Trek Pvt Ltd. The trek was very well thought out and organised. We were new to trekking and walking at altitude and the planning of transfers, days, walking distances and altitudes was well designed by Coretreks staff. After arriving and spending one night in Kathmandu we departed on a private jeep trip to Syabrubesi. We were accompanied by Trekking Guide Dibash Pudasaini and Porter Pukar Bhatta, two very friendly Nepalese with good English. From Syabrubesi we walked in three days up the Langtang Valley to Kyanjin Gompa, with overnights in Lama Hotel and Langtang Village. On the next two acclimatisation days we walked to Kyanjin Ri and upstream along the Langtang River through the glacial outwash plains towards the direction of Langshiska Kharka. The following day we went with the mountain guide Jhandu Lama and Dibash to the Yala Base Camp, where we hit snow on the last 500m before the small base hut. We crawled into the sleeping backs early, then got up at 2:30 am for an alpine start to the day and went with crampons and headlights uphill on the frozen snow surface. Our pace got slower and slower until we reached the flat area on ice 120m below Yala peak around 7:30 am. The view now opened towards the east and was amazing. At this altitude of 5400m we had reached our limit of breathing enough air in and decided to descend. No altitude sickness. We stopped on the way down briefly at the basecamp and then continued down to Kyanjin Gompa. Next day we did a long downhill walk to Lama Hotel, then a half day walk to Syabrubesi where the private jeep waited to bring us back to Kathmandu. On the trek we saw wild monkeys, deer, tahr, eagles, lammergeier and many other birds. Time in Kathmandu was spend sightseeing, shopping and relaxing with nice food and beverages. Our guides from Coretreks brought us out to a fantastic dinner with great Nepalese food and traditional dancing. We can highly recommend Coretreks and their guides for trekking and peak climbing, they are very knowledgeable about trekking, geography and wildlife. They are friendly and communicate well which is important on treks that can get exhausting and tiring at times. The nice hotels, teahouses, food, supplies, sightseeing, jeeps and airport taxis were well organised by Coretreks and gave us a unique experience in Nepal.
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Tobias M profile picture
Tobias M
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More than a trek – My Annapurna Circuit Experience The "Annapurna Circuit Trek including Tilicho Lake" journey was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. The 15-day tour starting and ending in Kathmandu was definitely challenging — many steep ascents in a short amount of time, icy sections, and the thin air at high altitude push you physically and mentally. At the same time, every single day rewards you with unforgettable impressions and breathtaking scenery. I especially want to highlight the outstanding organization by CoreTrek. Even before the trek started, communication was excellent. Individual requests were handled quickly, flexibly, and in a very solution-oriented way. I always felt honestly advised about what was realistic and what was not, which created a lot of trust from the beginning. On the trek itself, my guide Aga Kami and my porter Sudip were absolutely fantastic. Both were incredibly friendly, supportive, experienced, and attentive throughout the entire journey. In such demanding conditions at high altitude, having people like them around gives you a huge sense of confidence and security. Aga Kami guided the route perfectly, always knew how to adapt the pace to the situation, and shared his experience in a calm and professional way. Sudip also did an amazing job and made every day more enjoyable with his positive attitude and constant support. The trek would not have been the same without them. The absolute highlight was crossing the Thorong La Pass. It is one of those moments that feels surreal — a combination of exhaustion, pride, and overwhelming beauty that is difficult to describe in words. In general, the scenery throughout the trek was simply spectacular. I was there in November and had perfect weather the entire time: deep blue skies, crystal-clear visibility, sunshine, and only light winds. This season is ideal for the Annapurna region because the air is dry and stable, creating stunning panoramic views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks almost every day. Another big surprise was the food and accommodation situation. Even in remote mountain villages, the variety and quality of the food were far better than I expected. I was also surprised by how widely available internet access was throughout the trek. Of course, the lodges become more basic and rustic the higher you go, but considering the environment and altitude, they were still surprisingly comfortable. Honestly, there was nothing during the trek that really disappointed or bothered me. Looking back, what remains most is the feeling afterward: pride, gratitude, and inner peace. Some experiences take weeks or even months to fully process and appreciate. For me, this trek was not only a physical adventure but also a mental reset. I was able to completely disconnect, clear my mind, and reconnect with myself. I would highly recommend this trek to adventurous and physically active travelers looking for an authentic, challenging, and deeply rewarding experience.
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Marta K profile picture
Marta K
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The most kind, helpful and fun team! I had a pleasure of going to Langtang Valley with CoreTreks team and they are the best. Very friendly, kind, helpful and professional. All the guys were so dedicated to their work and always with a smile on their face. Respecful but also funny with a good sense of humour. I would definitely recommend trekking with them. They know what they are doing and you can feel safe with them. if i come back to Nepal and want to go to the mountains again- I will definitely contact Nim and his team. Thank you very much! 🙏🏻🙌🏻
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Alex T profile picture
Alex T
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THANK YOU CORETREKS ! When it comes to chose a trekking compagny, it's a roll of dice. Choosing Coretreks was such a blessing! Human oriented compagny! They gave me different trek options and I was glad because I ended going for something different than my first idea was and I am so happy with it. The prices are good too. I decided to go with Everest Base Camp, Island Peak and Ama Dablam summits for a total of around 1 month trip. I felt very safe with the trek and climbing guide and had fast answer from owners when I had questions. Honestly, everything was better than expected, I recommand Coretreks to everyone! I will come back FOR SURE! They make your dreams come true, don't wait!🙏🏼
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Tour01978766917
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Randonnée Népal Amazing experience! I did the mardi himal trek and it was absolutly stunning. Nim, the founder of coretrek, made sure everything was set perfectly for me before, during and after the trek. He was disponible, kind, caring and really helpful. He made me feel like home and secure as soon as i landed in Nepal. I did my trek with Gorakh and Sudeep and they were always looking to make sure i was ok. They were funny, profesionnal and it was a true pleasure to be with them and share this wonderful moment. I recommand Nim and his team without hesitation, their love of mountains is pure and contagious !
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Shalini
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Great experience ABC TREK Thank you so much for putting together such an amazing trip for us. Every detail was perfectly handled, which made it easy for us to just enjoy the experience and take in the beauty around us. A big thank you to our guide Athma Rama and porter Krishan — their energy, knowledge, and kindness made the journey truly special. They didn’t just guide us, they made us feel comfortable, inspired, and connected throughout the trip.
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รมย์รัมภา พ
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เบื้องหลังรอยยิ้มนี้คือความใจดีของทีมงานที่ไม่เคยทิ้งเราไปไหน ขอบคุณมากนะคะ ฉันประทับใจมาก เป็นทริปที่จะไม่มีวันลืมเลย ฉันไปจนถึงbase campไม่ได้แน่ๆ ถ้าไม่ได้รับการช่วยเหลือและคอยดูแลอย่างดีจากทีมงานของคุณ ขอบคุณมากๆนะคะ พวกคุณใจดีกับฉันมาก มันทำให้ฉันอยากกลับไปหิมาลัยอีกในทุกๆปีเลย
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Alberto C
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Manaslu Circuit Trek Amazing experience! beautiful trekking in an incredible environment. Thanks to Core Treks for the great organization, everything was as i expected.
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sultan a
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Manaslu Trek I had an amazing experience with CoreTreks during my hiking trip in Nepal. The guide was professional, friendly, and always made sure I was safe and comfortable. The trip was very well-organized, and the views were absolutely breathtaking. I highly recommend Core Trek to anyone planning to visit Nepal — they made the journey unforgettable!

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