Introducing Yarlung Valley
Yarlung is considered the cradle of Tibetan civilisation. It was from Yarlung that the early Tibetan kings unified Tibet in the 7th century and their massive burial mounds still dominate the area around Chongye. Yumbulagang, perched on a crag like a medieval European castle, is another major attraction of the area and the site of Tibet’s oldest building.
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The major attractions of the Yarlung Valley can just about be seen in a day, but this is a beautiful part of Tibet for extended hiking and day walks. The main problem is the Tsetang PSB, who seem intent on limiting tourism to guided groups.
Some travellers band together in Lhasa for a three- or four-day trip out to the Yarlung Valley by way of Tsetang, taking in Samye and Mindroling en route. The total cost (including permits and guide) for a Land Cruiser for such a trip is around Y2800. It’s more cost-effective to add a Yarlung extension onto a trip to the Nepali border if you are heading that way.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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RE: White Christmas in china
by Losang 28 June 2011
Actually, many places in Tibet (especially Lhasa, Shigatse and the Yarlung Valley) will be very dry during that time. The far northern…
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Travel to Yarlung, Drakyul, Sheldrak Cave
by frammis3000 11 April 2011
Looking for traveling companions to head to from Lhasa to Yeshe Tsogyal's birthplace, up the valley to Dorje Drak (also known as Dzong…
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Re: Tibet Tour
by travel2china 10 August 2010
The Classical Package: Lhasa-Gyantse-Shigatse (6days/5nights) The mild and pleasant climate in central Tibet makes this area available…
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