6-Day Amdo Tibetan Family Homestay Tour
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Ngari, Tibet Autonomous Region From $2600Explore Amdo on a journey through the captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Amdo. Discover hidden monasteries steeped in history and spirituality, and visit the vibrant town of Rebkong, renowned as the cradle of Tibetan traditional art. Here, you’ll meet skilled artisans preserving centuries-old traditions.
Drive along the majestic Yellow River and through stunning Yadan landforms, where unique geological features create otherworldly vistas. Explore quaint, colorful villages and serene monasteries nestled in the mountains, each offering a glimpse into the region’s spiritual and cultural essence.
High on the verdant grasslands of the Tibetan plateau, encounter nomadic communities living in harmony with nature and their livestock. Immerse yourself in their way of life by camping alongside them, a rare opportunity to connect deeply with Tibetan culture and experience an ancient, sustainable way of living.
Distance: 240km | Driving Time: 5 hours | Accommodation: Tibetan Family Homestay
Begin your explore Amdo with a drive from Xining to Shachung Monastery, perched atop a mountaintop with breathtaking views of the Yellow River winding through a serene valley. This peaceful, less-traveled monastery offers an opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of its historic setting.
After exploring Shachung, descend to the valley and follow the scenic route along the Yellow River, passing through picturesque Muslim villages. These areas are among the lowest in elevation within Qinghai Province, adding a unique dimension to the journey.
Continue to Rebkong (Repkong), known for its three major Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and as a hub for traditional Tibetan art. Upon arrival, settle into a Tibetan village homestay, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by your hosts. Enjoy a traditional Tibetan dinner and share stories, gaining an intimate glimpse into the daily life of Tibetan villagers.
Distance: 180km | Driving Time: 3 hours | Accommodation: Camping with Nomads
Start your day with a visit to Rongwo Monastery, a 12th-century Sakyapa monastery that now belongs to the Gelukpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. With eight branch monasteries, Rongwo was once home to 1,500 monks and still houses 450 today.
Next, explore the renowned Thangka painting schools and villages, especially Wutunsi, home to two historic monasteries. Visit Tibetan homes to witness the intricate art of Thangka painting, observing artists at work and learning about this cherished tradition.
Continue to the Tsekog Grasslands, where you’ll camp with Tibetan nomads and experience their way of life. Participate in herding livestock, making traditional cheese, yogurt, and butter, and observing daily tasks like milking yaks, collecting and drying yak dung, and cooking over a nomadic fire stove. Enjoy hiking the hills, riding yaks or horses, and sharing life stories with your hosts, immersing yourself in this timeless lifestyle.
Distance: 200km | Driving Time: 3 hours | Accommodation: Local Hotel
Begin your day with a visit to Hor Monastery and the nearby Mani Stone Wall, a sacred Tibetan site west of Tsekog. Then, journey through the grasslands before descending to Trika (Guide), a vibrant town on the banks of the Yellow River.
Explore Trika’s Jokhang Temple, a revered site believed to hold blessings equal to the famed Jokhang Temple in Lhasa. If time permits, visit Minyak Stupa, one of the region’s oldest monasteries, built during the reign of Tibet’s 41st king. Admire Trika’s unique, colorful geological formations, which add an artistic touch to this remarkable landscape.
Distance: 320km | Driving Time: 6 hours
Travel back to Xining, stopping en route to visit the famous Kumbum Monastery. Known in Tibetan as “Kumbum” (meaning “One Hundred Thousand Buddhas”), it is the birthplace of Je Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelukpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. As one of Tibet’s six great monasteries, Kumbum houses over 600 monks and is a significant cultural and spiritual center.
On the way, drive through a geographic park featuring vibrant, multicolored land formations. Reflect on your journey as you return to Xining for your final overnight stay.
Transfer to your hotel in Xining at end of the the Explore Amdo.
The best time to visit is from June to October when the weather is mild, the grasslands are lush, and road conditions are favorable.
The homestay offers authentic Tibetan hospitality, traditional meals, and the chance to learn about daily life and customs in a local Tibetan village.
The itinerary includes light hiking and cultural exploration. While it’s generally suitable for most fitness levels, high altitudes in Tsekog may require some acclimatization.
Yes, you’ll visit Thangka painting villages to meet artists and spend time with nomads, engaging in their daily activities and learning about their lifestyle.
This Amdo tour offers an authentic homestay experience with Tibetan families and camping with nomads, allowing you to immerse yourself in daily life on the Tibetan Plateau. The hands-on cultural activities and visits to remote, less-traveled areas make it a one-of-a-kind journey.
