Tolung Chu is 1 hour only from Lhasa. It is a fun and perfect introduction to whitewater rafting in Tibet. You don't have to be able to swim, but it is recommended that you are physically fit and have acclimatized in Lhasa for a few days as you will be required to paddle and move around the raft. The lower is class 2/3 continuous and scenic. It is in the same valley as the Qinghai - Tibet highway and the train but the river is mostly out of site from the road. Put-in below the killer weir and take out wherever you like. The upper section is full on class 4+ (5) in high water and fun class 4 boulder dodging in medium/low water. The normal put-in is just below the gnarly class V corner about 5km before Yangpachen. Most of this run is road side so you can scout on the drive up.
Airport/train station transfer to hotel, Acclimatize to the High Altitude.
Fly into Lhasa or arrive in Lhasa by train. Local guide will meet you and transfer you to Lhasa. On the way, you can appreciate the heart-beating highland view along the Yarlong Tsangpo river (the longest river in Tibet and highest river on the earth with an average altitude of 4,000 meters), originating from Jiemayangzong Glacier on the northern Himalayas.
Potala Palace, Jokhang temple, Barkhor Street
The cardinal landmark of Lhasa, Potala Palace, is a structure of massive portions. Its towering image already appearing on various occasions, but your first sight of the Potala will still be an awe-inspiring moment. Potala Palace is a place where you can appreciate the Tibetan culture, religion and art of architecture as well.
Jokhang Temple is the spiritual center of Tibet. Every day, pilgrims from every corner of Tibet trek a long distance to the temple to pray for their now and future. The temple is the product of Han, Tibetan and Nepalese architectural techniques.
Barkhor Street, the oldest street in a very traditional city in Tibet.
Yamdrok Yumtso Lake
About hundred kilometers, you will appreciate the holy Lake of Yamdrok Yumtso Lake.The sacred lake of Yamdrok Yumtso is revered as a talisman, supporting the life-spirit of Tibet. It is said that should its waters dry, Tibet will no longer be habitable. Down to the Lake to have a picnic or hike.
Tolung Chu Rafting
Pick you up at your hotel at 08:00 a.m around. Drive 1 hour to Tolung Valley. Full morning spent on rafting. Have a takeout picnic lunch. Back to Lhasa around 15:00 p.m after the float trip. Rest time is free at your disposal.
Ganden Kora, Drak Yerpa
Drive to Ganden monastery, the first monastery belonged to Yellow Hat sect. You could see the countryside views there. One the way have a family visit (optional) You can have a easier or harder hike at Ganden. High kora or low kora depends on your physical condition. The high kora climbs Angkor Ri south of Ganden and then drops down the ridge to join up with the lower kora. The low kora is easier than high kora.
Drak Yerpa hermitage is one of the holiest cave retreats in Tibet. The site is deeply peaceful and has stunning views. There are many caves and retreats higher up the cliff face. There, you can have a climb on the hill. It is said that Lhasa is the shrine of Tibet, Drak Yerpa is the shrine of Lhasa. Without seeing Drak Yerpa in Lhasa is just like making a dress without the collar.
Airport/train station transfer
Transfer to Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station to take flight or train out of Lhasa.
Transport to and from the river
All personal rafting gear including: full length wetsuit, lifejacket, helmet and wetsuit boots
Picnic lunch and snacks
English/Chinese/Tibetan speaking guides
Water resistant container for personal essentials
State of the art rafts and expert safety kayakers
Bathing/swim suit
Towel
Sun hat and sunscreen (SPF 15 lip balm is recommended)
Sunglasses with strap
Refillable water bottle
Camera and protective camera bag
Pair of shorts to go over wetsuit