
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).
Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select the itinerary that you wish to explore.
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 |
Note: Note: the listed hotels are tentative. The final hotel list shall be confirmed upon booking and deposit payment.
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.