A bespoke trekking in tibet adventure.
The Kharta Valley Trek is a challenging camping journey through one of the most remote and spectacular mountain regions of Tibet, combining high Himalayan valleys, traditional Tibetan villages, glaciers, high mountain passes, and dramatic views of the Everest region. It is particularly suited to experienced trekkers seeking a remote and adventurous experience in the Tibetan Himalayas.
The journey begins in Lhasa, with time for sightseeing and acclimatization before continuing across the Tibetan Plateau toward Shigatse, New Tingri, and the Kharta Valley. From the roadhead, the route enters a remote mountain environment where alpine valleys, rocky slopes, glaciers, and high Himalayan landscapes create a constantly changing trekking experience.
The trail continues toward Shao La and the upper Kharta Valley, passing through traditional grazing areas, mountain lakes, and remote wilderness. Camping along the route allows travelers to experience the peaceful surroundings more closely, while the trekking crew provides accommodation, meals, and support throughout the challenging mountain section.
The Kharta Valley Trek is an excellent choice for experienced trekkers looking beyond the more established routes in Tibet. To explore more trekking opportunities, visit our Trekking in Tibet page. For practical information about trekking conditions, preparation, permits, equipment, and travel planning, see our Tibet Travel Guide and Tibet Trekking Guide.
Short Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Lhasa – Transfer to hotel
Day 02: Lhasa – Sightseeing and acclimatization
Day 03: Lhasa – Sightseeing and trek preparation
Day 04: Lhasa – Shigatse – Scenic drive across the Tibetan Plateau
Day 05: Shigatse – New Tingri – Scenic Himalayan drive
Day 06: New Tingri – Kharta Valley – Drive toward the trekking region
Day 07: Kharta – Shao Tso – Begin trekking through the remote valley
Day 08: Shao Tso – Shao La – Joksham – Cross the high mountain pass
Day 09: Joksham – Thangsham – Trek through the Kharta Valley
Day 10: Thangsham – Pethang – Continue through remote alpine landscapes
Day 11: Pethang – Pethang Ringmo – Explore the upper Kharta Valley
Day 12: Pethang Ringmo – Kharta – Trek back through the mountain valley
Day 13: Kharta – New Tingri – Scenic drive across the Tibetan Plateau
Day 14: New Tingri – Shigatse – Continue through the high Himalayan landscape
Day 15: Shigatse – Lhasa – Scenic return drive
Day 16: Lhasa – Departure
Trip Facts
Trip Name: Kharta Valley Trek
Destination: Tibet
Duration: 16 Days / 15 Nights
Trip Type: Camping Trek
Difficulty: Challenging
Highest Point: Shao La – approx. 4,970 m
Activities: Trekking, camping, mountain sightseeing, Tibetan cultural experiences, and high-altitude exploration
Accommodation: Tourist-standard hotels in Lhasa, Shigatse, and along the road journey; tented camps during the trek
Meals: Breakfast in hotels; Full Board during the trekking portion
Transportation: Private vehicle
Start / End: Lhasa / Lhasa
Best Seasons: Spring (Apr–May) and Autumn (Sep–Oct)
Guide: Experienced local trekking guide and camping crew
Customization: Available
Trekking Experience
The Kharta Valley Trek is a remote and challenging camping journey through the spectacular mountain landscapes of Tibet. The route leads deep into the Kharta Valley, passing through alpine meadows, traditional grazing areas, glacial landscapes, high mountain passes, and remote Himalayan valleys with impressive views toward the Everest region.
The trek is designed for experienced trekkers who are comfortable with high-altitude camping and demanding mountain terrain. Unlike lodge-based trekking routes, accommodation throughout the main trekking section is in tents, with a dedicated camping crew providing meals, equipment, and support in the remote mountain environment.
Kharta Valley and Himalayan Landscapes
The Kharta Valley is one of the most beautiful remote trekking areas of Tibet, surrounded by dramatic mountains and broad alpine valleys. As the trail moves deeper into the region, the landscape changes from lower mountain terrain to open meadows, rocky slopes, glaciers, and high-altitude wilderness.
The remote setting is one of the major attractions of the trek. Far from the larger towns and established tourist routes, travelers can experience peaceful mountain landscapes, traditional grazing areas, and spectacular views with very few other trekkers along the trail.
Shao La Pass
Crossing Shao La is one of the major highlights of the Kharta Valley Trek. The trail climbs steadily through increasingly rugged terrain before reaching the high mountain pass, where expansive views extend across the surrounding Himalayan valleys and peaks.
The crossing requires good physical preparation because of the altitude and steep terrain. Weather can change quickly at high elevations, so trekkers should follow the pace and guidance of their experienced trekking team.
Everest Region
The Kharta Valley lies on the northern side of the Himalayas in the broader Everest region, providing opportunities to experience spectacular high mountain scenery away from the more established trekking routes.
Throughout the journey, the surrounding landscape includes dramatic Himalayan peaks, glaciers, alpine valleys, and remote mountain terrain. The combination of wilderness and proximity to the Everest region makes the trek particularly rewarding for experienced adventurers.
Tibetan Villages and Mountain Culture
The journey through the Kharta Valley provides opportunities to experience traditional Tibetan mountain life. Remote settlements and seasonal grazing areas form an important part of the landscape, with local communities continuing traditional practices suited to the high-altitude environment.
Travelers are encouraged to respect local customs, religious traditions, grazing areas, and private property while passing through villages and remote mountain communities.
Camping and Food
The Kharta Valley Trek is a camping trek, with tented accommodation throughout the main trekking section. The camping crew carries and prepares the necessary equipment and establishes camps at suitable locations along the route.
Full Board meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided during the trekking portion. Meals are generally simple, nourishing, and prepared by the camping team according to the supplies available for the remote journey.
Trekking Difficulty
The Kharta Valley Trek is considered challenging because of its high altitude, remote location, long trekking days, steep sections, and high mountain pass crossings. The route requires good physical fitness and the ability to walk for several hours each day in demanding mountain conditions.
Previous high-altitude trekking and camping experience is strongly recommended. Proper acclimatization, steady pacing, hydration, and suitable preparation are particularly important for this remote Himalayan adventure.
Best Time for the Trek
The best seasons for the Kharta Valley Trek are generally spring and autumn, when weather and mountain visibility are often more favorable.
Spring — April to May: Generally suitable for trekking, with improving weather and increasingly accessible mountain trails.
Summer — June to August: Warmer conditions are possible, although rainfall, cloud, and changing mountain weather can affect the route.
Autumn — September to October: Clearer skies and relatively stable weather make autumn one of the most favorable periods for high-altitude trekking in Tibet.
Actual conditions can vary from year to year, and trekking access depends on weather, trail conditions, permits, and local regulations.
Trekking Preparation
Travelers should prepare for high altitude, remote camping, changing weather, and long trekking days. Good trekking boots, warm layers, waterproof protection, a comfortable daypack, sleeping bag, water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen, personal medication, and suitable head protection are recommended for the journey.
As the route reaches high elevations and crosses Shao La, proper acclimatization and careful preparation are important. For more practical information on equipment, clothing, altitude, and trekking preparation, see our Tibet Trekking Guide.
Responsible Trekking
Travelers are encouraged to protect the fragile Himalayan environment and respect the traditional communities of the Kharta Valley. Carry waste out of remote camping areas, avoid disturbing wildlife and vegetation, and use designated camping areas whenever required.
Respect for local Tibetan customs and religious traditions is equally important. Traveling with local guides and support staff also helps provide employment and benefits to communities connected with tourism in the region.
Kharta Valley Trek FAQs
Is the Kharta Valley Trek a camping trek?
Yes. The main trekking section is operated as a camping trek, with tented accommodation, camping equipment, and support provided by the trekking crew.
What is the highest point of the trek?
The highest point on the standard route is Shao La at approximately 4,970 meters. The high altitude makes acclimatization and proper preparation important.
Are meals included during the trek?
Yes. Full Board meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are provided during the trekking portion. Breakfast is included during the hotel stays.
How difficult is the Kharta Valley Trek?
The trek is considered challenging because of its high altitude, remote terrain, long walking days, and high mountain pass crossing. Previous high-altitude trekking experience is recommended.
Can the Kharta Valley Trek be customized?
Yes. The itinerary can be customized according to travel dates, group size, trekking experience, available time, and preferred trekking arrangements, subject to permits, weather, trail conditions, and local regulations.
Plan Your Kharta Valley Trek
The Kharta Valley Trek – 16 Days is an excellent choice for experienced trekkers seeking a remote Himalayan adventure in Tibet. The journey combines high mountain passes, alpine valleys, glaciers, traditional Tibetan landscapes, remote camping, and spectacular scenery in the Everest region.
Mountain King Treks can arrange the trekking guide, camping crew, tented accommodation, Full Board meals during the trek, hotels, private transportation, permits, and other required services according to your travel requirements.
Contact Us
Mountain King Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd.
WhatsApp / Call: +977-9841566449
Email: info@mountainkingtrek.com
Contact us to discuss your trekking dates, group size, trekking experience, camping arrangements, transportation, and preferred itinerary.
Plan Your Trip
Tell us your preferred dates, group size, trekking experience, and travel requirements, and we will help you arrange your Kharta Valley Trek.
What makes this special.
- Remote trekking through the spectacular Kharta Valley
- Scenic journey across the high Tibetan Plateau
- Shao La high mountain pass crossing
- Dramatic Himalayan landscapes and glaciers
- Traditional Tibetan villages and yak-herding communities
- Remote alpine valleys and mountain lakes
- Camping in a peaceful high-altitude wilderness
- Opportunity to experience the Everest region from the Tibetan side
- Lhasa and Shigatse cultural and historical experiences
- Challenging adventure for experienced Himalayan trekkers
Your itinerary.
Arrive in Lhasa, the cultural and spiritual heart of Tibet, where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel by private vehicle. After check-in, take time to rest and allow your body to begin adjusting to the high altitude.
The remainder of the day is free for relaxation according to your arrival time. Avoid strenuous activity and drink plenty of water as you begin acclimatizing to the Tibetan Plateau.
Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa (BB)
After breakfast, begin exploring Lhasa with visits to some of its important cultural and historical attractions. Depending on local conditions and your interests, the day may include visits to Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, and other significant sites in the city.
The sightseeing is kept at a comfortable pace to support acclimatization. Return to the hotel after exploring the city and enjoy a relaxed evening in preparation for the journey toward the Kharta Valley.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa
After breakfast, continue acclimatization in Lhasa with additional sightseeing and free time. The day provides an opportunity to experience the distinctive Tibetan culture, traditional architecture, monasteries, and atmosphere of the capital.
Later, meet your trekking team and prepare for the remote journey ahead. Check your personal trekking equipment and receive a briefing about the route, high-altitude conditions, camping arrangements, and safety procedures.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa
After breakfast, begin the scenic drive from Lhasa to Shigatse, traveling across the high Tibetan Plateau. The journey passes through wide open landscapes, mountain ranges, traditional settlements, and areas of cultivated land, providing an excellent introduction to the vast scenery of Tibet.
On arrival in Shigatse, check in to your hotel and enjoy time to relax. If time and local conditions permit, there may be an opportunity to explore part of the city and experience its Tibetan cultural atmosphere.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Shigatse
After breakfast, continue by private vehicle toward New Tingri, following the high plateau roads toward the Everest region. The landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with vast valleys, barren mountain slopes, and distant Himalayan peaks appearing along the route.
The drive provides spectacular views of the Tibetan Plateau and surrounding mountains. On arrival in New Tingri, settle into your accommodation and rest in preparation for entering the remote Kharta Valley.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel/Guesthouse in New Tingri
After breakfast, drive from New Tingri toward Kharta Village, entering the remote mountain landscapes of the Kharta Valley. The scenic journey passes through rugged valleys and high Himalayan terrain with increasingly impressive mountain views.
Arrive at Kharta Village, meet the trekking crew, and prepare for the trekking section. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings before beginning the remote camping journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tented Camp
After breakfast, begin trekking through the Kharta Valley toward Shao Tso. The trail gradually enters the remote mountain landscape, passing through alpine terrain, open valleys, streams, and traditional grazing areas.
Continue toward the beautiful mountain lake of Shao Tso, surrounded by rugged Himalayan slopes. After reaching the campsite, settle into your tent and enjoy the quiet wilderness of the Kharta Valley.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tented Camp
After breakfast, begin one of the more demanding days of the trek as the trail climbs toward Shao La, a high mountain pass. The ascent takes you through increasingly rugged terrain, with spectacular views across the surrounding mountains and valleys.
After crossing Shao La, descend toward Joksham, where the landscape gradually opens into the upper Kharta Valley. Set up camp and rest after the challenging pass crossing while enjoying the remote Himalayan surroundings.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tented Camp
After breakfast, continue trekking from Joksham toward Thangsham, following the remote trails through the upper Kharta Valley. The route passes through open alpine landscapes, mountain streams, rocky slopes, and traditional grazing areas, with impressive views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Continue at a steady pace through the peaceful wilderness before reaching the camping area at Thangsham. Settle into camp and enjoy the quiet mountain surroundings.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tented Camp
After breakfast, resume the trek toward Pethang, continuing deeper into the remote Kharta Valley. The trail crosses changing mountain terrain, with broad valleys, alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and distant glaciers creating spectacular scenery throughout the day.
After reaching Pethang, set up camp and take time to rest and enjoy the dramatic Himalayan environment. The remote setting provides an excellent opportunity to experience the wilderness of the Everest region.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tented Camp
After breakfast, trek toward Pethang Ringmo, following the upper valley through increasingly rugged Himalayan terrain. The route provides impressive views of surrounding peaks, glaciers, and high mountain slopes, with the landscape becoming more remote as you continue.
Reach Pethang Ringmo and establish camp in this spectacular mountain setting. Spend the remainder of the day resting and enjoying the peaceful surroundings before beginning the return journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tented Camp
After breakfast, begin trekking back toward Kharta, retracing sections of the route through the upper valley. The descent provides different perspectives of the mountains, glaciers, alpine meadows, and surrounding landscapes.
Continue gradually toward the lower Kharta Valley and reach the camping area near Kharta. After arriving, relax and enjoy your final evening in the remote mountain environment.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tented Camp
After breakfast, leave the trekking region and begin the drive from Kharta to New Tingri. The route gradually leaves the remote valleys and returns toward the broad landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau.
Enjoy the changing scenery as the rugged mountain environment gives way to expansive high-altitude landscapes. Arrive in New Tingri and settle into your accommodation for a comfortable evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel/Guesthouse in New Tingri
After breakfast, continue the scenic drive from New Tingri to Shigatse, crossing the vast Tibetan Plateau. The journey provides opportunities to enjoy wide-open valleys, traditional settlements, mountain ranges, and the distinctive landscapes of central Tibet.
Arrive in Shigatse and check in to your hotel. After completing the remote trekking section, enjoy a more relaxed evening and time to recover from the journey.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Shigatse
After breakfast, drive back from Shigatse to Lhasa, following the scenic route across the Tibetan Plateau. The journey provides a final opportunity to enjoy the high mountain landscapes and traditional Tibetan settlements before returning to the capital.
On arrival in Lhasa, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Relax after the long journey or explore the city according to your time and interest.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa
After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Lhasa according to your departure schedule. Later, transfer by private vehicle to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.
Your Kharta Valley Trek – 16 Days concludes after an adventurous journey through remote Himalayan valleys, high mountain passes, glaciers, and the spectacular landscapes of Tibet.
Meals: Breakfast
Trip includes
- Airport arrival and departure transfers in Lhasa by private vehicle.
- Tourist-standard hotel accommodation in Lhasa, Shigatse, and during the road journey on a twin-sharing basis with breakfast.
- Full Board meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trekking portion.
- Tented accommodation during the trek with camping equipment.
- Experienced, licensed, English-speaking trekking guide.
- Supporting trekking and camping crew.
- Private transportation throughout the itinerary.
- Tibet travel permits and required trekking permits.
- National park and conservation fees where applicable.
- Trekking and camping equipment required for the organized trek.
- Necessary staff wages, meals, accommodation, and insurance.
- All applicable government taxes and service charges.
Not included
- International flights and travel to and from Tibet.
- Tibet Chinese visa or entry-related fees, where applicable.
- Travel insurance, including emergency evacuation coverage.
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing.
- Personal expenses, drinks, snacks, and laundry.
- Lunch and dinner outside the trekking Full Board arrangement.
- Tips for guides, drivers, and supporting staff.
- Emergency evacuation and medical expenses.
- Additional accommodation or transportation caused by delays, weather, illness, or other unforeseen circumstances.
- Any services not specifically mentioned under Trip Includes.
