From Badain Jaran to Lhasa

China

3,391

summer

Overview Itinerary Dates & Pricing Gallery Is this tour Right for you

Overview

This is a fascinating private tour to some of China’s least-traveled regions. The trip begins with a thrilling ride through the mysterious sand dunes of the Badain Jaran Desert. Dotted with thousands of crystal-clear lakes locked amidst some of the world’s highest sand dunes, the Badain Jaran Desert features a landscape like no other. Drive out of the desert and continue through Qinghai Province, part of historical Tibet, and today home to diverse ethnic groups of distinct traditions and religions. After touring Qinghai, hop aboard the Sky Train, a true engineering feat that ascends along the Tibetan Plateau all the way to Lhasa. End the trip with a few days of exploring some of the most revered sites of Tibetan Buddhism and meeting the Tibetan people and culture up close. Recommended travel dates from the Badain Jaran Desert to Lhasa are June to September. However, July and August might be a bit more crowded (please refer to the list of Chinese national holidays below, during which these rates might not apply).

Highlights

Badain Jaran Desert. Explore the world’s tallest sand dunes dotted with surreal blue lakes and remote desert temples.
Danxia & Binggou Landscapes. Walk through rainbow-colored mountains and sculpted sandstone valleys.
Silk Road Zhangye. Visit ancient temples, wetlands, and night markets in a historic trading hub.
Sky Train to Lhasa. Ride the world’s highest railway across the Tibetan Plateau.
Sacred Tibet. Discover Jokhang Temple, Potala Palace, Sera Monastery debates, and Norbulingka gardens.
Yamdrok Lake & Yarlung Valley. Witness one of Tibet’s holiest lakes and the cradle of Tibetan civilization.
Samye Monastery. Visit the first Buddhist monastery ever built in Tibet, laid out as a mandala.

Itinerary

Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select the itinerary that you wish to explore.

Beijing

Day 1

Arrival In Beijing

Zhangye

Day 2

Fly From Beijing To Zhangye

Badain Jaran Desert

Day 3

Drive to Badain Jaran

Bor Tulguu Lake

Day 4

From Badain Jaran Back To Zhangye

Xining

Day 5

By Bullet Train From Zhangye To Xining

Canbula National Forest Park

Day 6

Day Excursion To Canbula

Lhasa

Day 7

Riding The Sky Train To Lhasa

Jokhang

Day 8

Arrival In Lhasa

Potala Palace

Day 9

Exploring Lhasa

Tsedang

Day 10

From Lhasa To Tsedang

Beijing (2)

Day 11

Flight Back to Beijing

Beijing Capital International Airport

Day 12

Departure From China

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Itinerary

Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select the itinerary that you wish to explore.

Beijing

Land in Beijing, the Chinese capital city. Meet the guide, and drive to the city center. The drive from the airport tells the story of China's swift transition from classic socialism to a nearly free-market economy and the social changes that followed. From the suburbs, where luxurious and spacious residential complexes have been built to accommodate those who were quick to take advantage of the arrival of capitalism, the urban landscape gradually changes to old-style communist residential blocks, and then again, once arriving at the heart of the city, luxurious high-risers accommodate the offices of the world's leading companies and best-known brands. Depending on the time of arrival, a first orientation tour might be possible, followed by a welcome dinner- a chance to indulge in authentic Chinese cuisine. Revert then to the hotel for the first night in China.

Hotel
Dinner

Zhangye

This morning drive back to Beijing airport for the flight to the small town of Zhangye, an important trade post on the ancient Silk Road. From the airport, drive to the reclining Buddha temple, dating back to the Western Xia Dynasty of the 11th century. Apart from the impressive 34-meter (112-foot) Buddha statue, the temple features a fascinating exhibition of religious artifacts recovered from archaeological digs in the region. In the afternoon, visit Zhangye National Wetland Park. Zhangye is nestled at the heart of the Hexi Corridor, perched amid the Qilian Mountains and the Tibetan Plateau to the south, and the vast, arid Gobi Desert to the north. The Black River, running through the small town, is one of the very few water sources along the ancient Silk Road. The river fan, north of Zhangye, is a rare spot for migrating birds and waterfowl to nest. The park, spanning 41 square kilometers (over 10,000 acres), is home to 195 plant species and 116 animal species. Walk through the unique park, considered the most beautiful wetland park in mainland China, before a stroll along the lively night street, where city dwellers come to enjoy dinner served at small restaurants and food stalls.

Hotel
Breakfast

Badain Jaran Desert

After breakfast at the hotel, depart Zhangye for the drive to Badain Jaran. Badain Jaran Desert is home to the world's highest sand dunes, rising some 500 meters (1,640 feet) and featuring unparalleled landscapes. Surprisingly, this seemingly endless sea of sand extending to the horizon is dotted with nothing but beautiful blue lakes. No one knows for certain what the source of these lakes is, but it is assumed tthat he water comes all the way from the Qilian Mountains through underground rivers. The challenging off-road drive through the dunes and along the lakes leads to Soumin Jaran, a beautiful lake with a typical Mongolian-style temple perched on its shore. Visit the temple, now inhabited by only one monk, and enjoy a walk along the lakeshore. Overnight in a very basic guesthouse at Soumin Jaran.

Guesthouse
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Bor Tulguu Lake

Leave Soumin Jaran and drive to the top of one of the area's highest dunes for a spectacular view over lakes and breathtaking dunes, beautifully shaped by the elements. From here, take a two-and-a-half-hour hike to Nuritu Lake. After a quick lunch, take the vehicles to drive out of the Badain Jaran desert. En route, pause by the wall of singing sand, and those brave enough can have a quick dip at Bor Tulguu Lake. Leave the dunes and stop at the small local museum to learn more about the Badain Jaran Desert and its unique ecosystem. After two days of driving through the dunes, back on solid asphalt, reach the small settlement of Alxa Youqi. Here, say farewell to the 4WD drivers and drive back to Zhangye, arriving in town late in the evening.

Hotel
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Xining

Leave Zhangye and head to Bing Guo. Located at the foot of the Qilian Mountains, the park consists of marvelous sandstone formations. Take a short hike down the main valley and climb up to an observation point for a breathtaking view over the beautiful formations shaped over the years by wind and water. Back in the vehicle, continue to Dan Xia, a spectacular mountain with somewhat psychedelic patterns of colors in the rock, made by various minerals deposited in the rich soil. Drive back to Zhangye to board a Bullet Train to Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province. Arrive in Xining late at night, and drive directly to the hotel.

Hotel
Breakfast

Canbula National Forest Park

Today, take an excursion out of Xining to the Canbula National Forest Park, featuring impressive rock and land formations with snow-capped peaks in the backdrop. The road leading to the park crosses a bridge over the Yellow River, commonly referred to as the cradle of Chinese civilization. Once at the park, take a beautiful hike down the Nanzong Valley to Liujia Gorge, through birch forests, and along formidable red sandstone cliffs. In the late afternoon, drive back to Xining. If time permits, stop for a walk in one of the several towns where the Muslim Hui people reside. Overnight in Xining.

Hotel
Breakfast

Lhasa

With an early start to the day, go to the city's main square to see the crowds taking their morning exercises. Some are groups of Tibetans dancing to traditional and modern music, while others are individuals mastering their t'ai chi technique. Walk to the city's food market to stock up on fruit and snacks for the train ride later in the day. Before leaving Xining, stop at one of the city's largest mosques. Combining traditional Muslim and Chinese architecture, the mosque is located at the edge of the wide extent of the Chinese Sunni community. Originally constructed during the 14th century, the buildings have been destroyed and rebuilt several times. Continue to the train station for an unforgettable ride on the Sky Train to Lhasa. This ambitious project, undertaken by the Chinese government, is the world's highest railway and a true triumph for mankind, overcoming many natural and mechanical obstacles during its construction. Overnight aboard the train.

Overnight aboard the train
Breakfast

Jokhang

Reach Lhasa in the early afternoon and drive directly to the hotel to rest after the 24-hour train ride. At nearly 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) above sea level, the air in Lhasa is very thin. For those who need some time to acclimatize, a free afternoon at the hotel is offered. Those with enough stamina are welcome to join the guide and walk to the bustling Barkhor- a circular street around Tibet's holiest temple. Join the commotion of many hundreds of pilgrims taking the kora along busy market stalls before entering the Jokhang. Built in the 7th century by Songtsen Gampo, the founder of the Tibetan Empire and, to a large extent, the nation's forefather, this ancient temple houses the Jowo Rinpoche, the most revered Buddha image among the people of Tibet.

Hotel
Dinner

Potala Palace

Today, explore Lhasa's most prominent sites and temples, beginning with a morning visit to Norbulingka. Built in 1775, this was the summer palace of the Dalai Lamas from its construction until the present Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959. With its vast, well-maintained gardens and the light breeze blowing from the lake at the center of the complex, this is a perfect refuge from the city's summer heat. Proceed to the Potala Palace with its whitewashed fortified walls, formidable protection from both invaders and earthquakes. The massive palace stretches for some 140,000 square meters (nearly 35 acres) on top of a hill looking over the entire Lhasa Valley. The Potala features more than 1000 shrines, the tombs of most of the Dalai Lamas, and an excellent display of Tibetan and Buddhist art and workmanship. Leave the palace and head to Sera Monastery, one of the three prominent colleges of the Yellow Hat sect of Tibetan Buddhism. At the center of this large complex of shrines, temples, and study halls, Tibetan monks conduct elaborate theological debates. The ceremonial practices surrounding these debates, dozens of which take place simultaneously, stage a mesmerizing sight. After attending the debates, return to the hotel for a second night in Lhasa.

Hotel
Breakfast

Tsedang

Leave Lhasa for a drive along the Kyi River Valley. En route, pause at a sacred site where Tibetan families give a 'water burial' to children who have passed away. Continue driving to Gamba La pass at 4,800 meters (15,748 feet) above sea level for a view over the crystal blue Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet's most sacred lakes. From here, descend back to the Kyi Valley, heading towards Tsedang and straight to Yumbulakhang Palace, believed to be the palace of the first king of Tibet and the first building ever built in its territory. With very few written records about the palace, which now serves as a monastery of the Gelugpa sect, it is assumed that construction began in the 2nd century BC. It was severely damaged during the Cultural Revolution but was reconstructed in 1983 to its current state. The palace offers a great view over the Yarlung Valley and the traditional villages dotting it. Late in the afternoon, arrive in the small town of Tsedang and set up in a simple hotel for the night.

Simple Hotel
Breakfast

Beijing (2)

Take the short drive from Tsedang to Samye Monastery. This is the first Buddhist monastery built in Tibet, with construction believed to have begun in 775 AD. The five-story monastery, built in the form of a mandala, is an important pilgrimage site for Tibetans from all over the country. Leave Samye and drive along the Yarlung River, which, when it flows into India, is known as the Brahmaputra. Back in the vehicle, drive to Lhasa's airport for an afternoon flight to Beijing. Arrive in Beijing rather late in the evening and head to the hotel by the airport for the last night in China.

Hotel near airport
Dinner

Beijing Capital International Airport

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Beijing airport for the international flight out of China.

Breakfast

Dates & Pricing

Badain Jaran to Lhasa private tour rates are quoted in US Dollars and are valid for 2 or more confirmed travelers.Note: These Chinese private tour rates are valid all year round, but are not valid for tours that occur (in whole, or in part) during Chinese national holidays:
New Year (1-3 Jan 2025)
Chinese Spring Festival (28 Jan-03 Feb 2025)
Qingming Festival (4-6 Apr 2025)
Labor Day Holiday (1-3 May 2025)
Dragon Boat Festival (30 May-02 Jun 2025)
Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day (1-8 Oct 2025)Trips@Asia reserves the right to change China private tour prices and programs due to changes in flight schedules, changes in airfares, and other local circumstances.
Prices are based on twin share occupancy.Rates for private groups of 2 travelers and above:
2 travelers- US$4,590/ person
4 travelers- US$3,782/ person**Granting travel permits to both Badain Jaran and Tibet are at the absolute discretion of the Chinese Government, and might be declined at any time without prior notice.

Dates	Status	Price	Notes
16 Jun 2026 - 27 Jun 2026	available	$ 3,391	(For a group of 6 or more) $631 Single Room Supplement

Additional Information

Inclusions

2 domestic flights Beijing/Zhangye-Lhasa/Beijing
Accommodation at hotels selected including breakfast
Bullet train Zhangye-Xining by 1st class
Soft-sleeper (4-berth) compartment for Sky train Xining-Lhasa

Is this trip right for you?

You’re fascinated by extreme landscapes. This itinerary moves through deserts, high plateaus, wetlands, mountains, and sacred lakes, often far from cities.

You’re comfortable with basic conditions at times. Desert guesthouses and remote regions prioritize location over comfort.

You’re ready for high altitude. Lhasa and surrounding areas sit above 3,500 meters, and acclimatization is essential.

You enjoy long journeys as part of the experience. Flights, long drives, off-road travel, trains, and an overnight rail journey are integral to the route.

You’re curious about spiritual traditions. Tibetan Buddhism, pilgrimage sites, and monastic life are major parts of the experience.

You value depth over speed. This is not a highlights dash but a layered journey through history, geography, and belief systems.

Overview

Highlights

Badain Jaran Desert. Explore the world’s tallest sand dunes dotted with surreal blue lakes and remote desert temples.
Danxia & Binggou Landscapes. Walk through rainbow-colored mountains and sculpted sandstone valleys.
Silk Road Zhangye. Visit ancient temples, wetlands, and night markets in a historic trading hub.
Sky Train to Lhasa. Ride the world’s highest railway across the Tibetan Plateau.
Sacred Tibet. Discover Jokhang Temple, Potala Palace, Sera Monastery debates, and Norbulingka gardens.
Yamdrok Lake & Yarlung Valley. Witness one of Tibet’s holiest lakes and the cradle of Tibetan civilization.
Samye Monastery. Visit the first Buddhist monastery ever built in Tibet, laid out as a mandala.

Dates & Pricing

Dates	Status	Price	Notes
16 Jun 2026 - 27 Jun 2026	available	$ 3,391	(For a group of 6 or more) $631 Single Room Supplement

Is this trip right for you?

You’re fascinated by extreme landscapes. This itinerary moves through deserts, high plateaus, wetlands, mountains, and sacred lakes, often far from cities.

You’re comfortable with basic conditions at times. Desert guesthouses and remote regions prioritize location over comfort.

You’re ready for high altitude. Lhasa and surrounding areas sit above 3,500 meters, and acclimatization is essential.

You enjoy long journeys as part of the experience. Flights, long drives, off-road travel, trains, and an overnight rail journey are integral to the route.

You’re curious about spiritual traditions. Tibetan Buddhism, pilgrimage sites, and monastic life are major parts of the experience.

You value depth over speed. This is not a highlights dash but a layered journey through history, geography, and belief systems.

From Badain Jaran to Lhasa

Overview

Highlights

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival In Beijing

Day 2

Fly From Beijing To Zhangye

Day 3

Drive to Badain Jaran

Day 4

From Badain Jaran Back To Zhangye

Day 5

By Bullet Train From Zhangye To Xining

Day 6

Day Excursion To Canbula

Day 7

Riding The Sky Train To Lhasa

Day 8

Arrival In Lhasa

Day 9

Exploring Lhasa

Day 10

From Lhasa To Tsedang

Day 11

Flight Back to Beijing

Day 12

Departure From China

Dates & Pricing

Additional Information

Inclusions

Is this trip right for you?

From Badain Jaran to Lhasa

Overview

Highlights

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival In Beijing

Day 2

Fly From Beijing To Zhangye

Day 3

Drive to Badain Jaran

Day 4

From Badain Jaran Back To Zhangye

Day 5

By Bullet Train From Zhangye To Xining

Day 6

Day Excursion To Canbula

Day 7

Riding The Sky Train To Lhasa

Day 8

Arrival In Lhasa

Day 9

Exploring Lhasa

Day 10

From Lhasa To Tsedang

Day 11

Flight Back to Beijing

Day 12

Departure From China

Dates & Pricing

Additional Information

Inclusions

Is this trip right for you?

Exclusions

Accommodation