A nine-day circuit from Lhasa to Nyingchi that pairs Potala Palace culture with eastern-Tibet’s glacier lakes and the rare blue ice of Laigu. Expect long drives, high passes and close glacier views—plan for altitude and variable weather.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the bus and the air thins like a hand smoothing the landscape—breath shorter, sky sharper. Over nine days this tour threads high passes, turquoise lakes and blue-ice faces from Lhasa to Nyingchi, delivering both Tibetan culture and raw glacial geology.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
9 days
Fitness Level
Moderate to fit: able to handle long vehicle days, short steep walks, and perform with reduced oxygen at 3,500–5,000 m.
Wildlife
History
Lhasa’s Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple anchor centuries of Tibetan Buddhism and once centralized both spiritual and political life on the plateau.
Conservation
Glaciers in eastern Tibet show measurable retreat; travelers should avoid single-use plastics, stay on trails and follow guide rules to reduce local impact.
Reserve your spot on the 9 day Blue Ice Tour in Tibet today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Lhasa
Plan two easy days on arrival to reduce altitude sickness—stay hydrated and avoid heavy exertion for 48 hours.
Carry cash and local SIM
Some rural vendors and smaller towns accept only cash; a local SIM helps with navigation and last-mile logistics.
Dress in layers for rapid change
Temperatures swing between valley warmth and high-pass cold—windproof outer layers plus insulated mid-layers are vital.
Prepare for long drives
Daily transfers can be several hours across mountain roads—bring motion-sickness remedies and snacks for comfort.
Insulated jacket
Keeps you warm during cold mornings at high passes and near glaciers.
winter
Sturdy hiking boots
Provide traction on uneven trails, moraine and wet boardwalks.
High-SPF sunscreen & sunglasses
UV is intense at altitude; protect skin and eyes from reflected glare off ice and water.
summer
Altitude medication (e.g., acetazolamide)
Useful if prone to altitude sickness—consult your doctor before travel.