Upon your arrival in Xining via international or domestic flight, you will be welcomed by our friendly local driver and transferred to a pre-booked hotel located in the heart of the city. The drive from the airport to the hotel is approximately 35 km, taking around one hour.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit the renowned Kumbum Monastery — a major Gelukpa-sect monastery founded in 1560 in Rushar County. As one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug tradition, it holds immense spiritual and historical significance.

We’ll also assist you with currency exchange for local transactions. In the evening, we’ll gather for a traditional Tibetan meal at a local restaurant.

Overnight stay: Hotel in Xining.

After breakfast at our hotel in Xining, we begin our journey to Rebkhong (Tongren), located approximately 162 km away — a scenic drive of about 2 hours.

En route, we’ll stop at the Shakyong Monastery, founded in 1349 by Chulgye Dundrul Rinchen, the teacher of Tsongkhapa (founder of the Gelug school). After his passing in 1385, his relics were enshrined in a sacred stupa at this very site. Once home to over 3,000 monks, Shakyong Monastery today encompasses 26 temples of various sizes — an evocative place to capture architectural details and traces of spiritual legacy.

We then continue to Rebkhong and visit the revered Rongwo Monastery — originally a Sakya-sect monastery that later transitioned to the Gelukpa tradition. With its deep history and vibrant practices, Rongwo offers a profound photographic opportunity.

By afternoon, we’ll arrive in Rebkhong in time to witness ongoing religious activities, likely at Gomar or Wutun Monastery, depending on the timing and monastic schedule — both sites are renowned for their spiritual atmosphere and living traditions.

Overnight stay: Hong Feng De Hotel, Rebkhong.

Today is dedicated to capturing the heart of the Monlam Chenmo Festival with a full day of immersive ceremonial photography at the Wutun Monasteries (also known as Wutun Si) — spiritual and artistic centres of Tibetan Buddhism in the Rebkhong region.

In the morning, we’ll photograph the powerful Cham dances at Upper Wutun Monastery. These sacred masked dances, rich in colour and movement, are performed by monks embodying protective deities and mythological figures — a deeply symbolic and visually striking ritual.

In the afternoon (starting around 1:30 PM), we’ll proceed to Lower Wutun Monastery to witness the breathtaking unveiling of the giant Thangka — an enormous appliqué thangka of the Buddha, dramatically unfurled across a hillside. It’s one of the most iconic and visually spectacular moments of the festival.

Overnight stay: Hong Feng De Hotel, Rebkhong.

Today we continue our deep dive into the sacred rhythms of Monlam Chenmo with visits to several important monasteries in the Rebkhong area.

In the morning, we’ll head to Gomar Monastery to photograph the breakfast-giving ceremony — a moving tradition where monks offer food to pilgrims and the community, symbolizing compassion and merit-making.

We’ll then proceed to Bongya Monastery to participate in and document the mountain kora, a spiritual circumambulation of the monastery and surrounding landscape — an excellent opportunity for capturing devotional moments in a striking natural setting.

Later, we visit Changkya Monastery to witness the Shaman ritual — a unique and ancient spiritual practice rarely seen by outsiders.

Finally, we return to Gomar Monastery in the afternoon to witness the dramatic Thangka revealing ceremony, where a large sacred image is unfurled before the assembled devotees.

Overnight stay: Hong Feng De Hotel, Rebkhong.

Today is devoted to photographing the vibrant Cham dance at Lower Wutun Monastery — a sacred ritual rich in spiritual symbolism and cultural heritage. Performed by monks wearing elaborate masks and colourful robes, these dances depict protective deities, legends, and moral teachings through rhythmic movement and dramatic expression.

It’s a visually compelling experience, offering countless opportunities for storytelling through your lens.

Overnight stay: Hong Feng De Hotel, Rebkhong.

Today will be a full day of photographing Cham dances at Gomar Monastery (Gomari Si) — a captivating performance of sacred masked rituals expressing stories of deities, dharma protectors, and spiritual legends. These visual spectacles are rich with symbolism, motion, and dramatic expression, ideal for immersive cultural documentation.

Later in the day, we’ll witness the Torma offering ceremony — a visually stunning ritual involving intricate butter sculptures and sacred chants. We’ll also visit Kyongon Monastery for a gathering of yogis and deep chanting sessions, a rare and intimate glimpse into Tibetan tantric practices.

Overnight stay: Hong Feng De Hotel, Rebkhong.

After an early breakfast, we’ll depart for Taktsang Lhamo, located approximately 407 km from Rebkhong. The journey will take around six hours, traversing some of the most scenic routes in the Amdo region.

Along the way, we’ll stop in Labrang for lunch and take time for photographic breaks at carefully selected spots — from sweeping mountain vistas to glimpses of everyday life in rural Tibetan villages. These moments ensure that even a travel-heavy day remains visually rich and rewarding.

This leg of the journey marks our entry into a more remote and spiritually resonant part of the Amdo plateau.

Overnight stay: Hotel in Taktsang Lhamo.

Today we witness the most awe-inspiring moment of the Monlam Festival — the Giant Thangka Unveiling. This spectacular ritual features the unfurling of a massive, intricately painted Thangka on a hillside, believed to bring blessings to all who behold it. It’s a powerful spiritual and photographic moment, rich in colour, devotion, and scale.

After the ceremony, we’ll take time to explore the local surroundings, capturing candid portraits, cultural scenes, and the serene atmosphere of this remote monastic town.

Overnight stay: Hotel in Taktsang Lhamo.

After an early breakfast, we begin our journey to Labrang, covering 207 km from Taktsang Lhamo — approximately a 4-hour drive. En route, we’ll remain alert for photographic moments and, if possible, make a brief stop at Luchu to witness another Cham dance event.

Upon arrival in Labrang, we will participate in the vibrant Cham dance celebrations, immersing ourselves in the festive atmosphere of one of the largest Tibetan monasteries outside the Tibet Autonomous Region.

The Dharma Dance, performed on the 14th day of the first lunar month, is a key highlight of the Monlam Festival here. It takes place on the grand square in front of the Great Sutra Hall, showcasing sacred movements meant to purify negative karma and invoke blessings.

Overnight stay: Tianzhu International Hotel, Labrang.

Today we stay in Labrang to continue exploring and photographing the ongoing Monlam celebrations. You’ll have time to revisit key locations, capture daily rituals, or dive deeper into portrait and monastery scenes.

In the evening, we’ll attend the remarkable Butter Sculpture Exhibit — an intricate and revered tradition where monks present stunning, hand-carved butter sculptures illuminated for public viewing. Please note that long waiting times are expected due to the popularity and spiritual significance of the event.

Overnight stay: Tianzhu International Hotel, Labrang.

In the morning, we’ll experience the Matria Kora at Labrang Monastery — a sacred circumambulation route deeply rooted in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Pilgrims walk clockwise around the monastery, often spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras, seeking spiritual merit and purification. This is a powerful opportunity to capture intimate, reflective moments of devotion.

In the afternoon, we’ll head out to the Sankok Nomadic Region, where we’ll explore and photograph the pastoral life of Tibetan nomads set against sweeping grasslands and mountainous backdrops — an ideal chance to document a more remote and authentic side of Amdo.

Overnight stay: Tianzhu International Hotel, Labrang.

This morning, we begin our journey to Lanzhou, a drive of approximately 4 hours, marking the closing chapter of our unforgettable Amdo Monlam Festival Photo Tour.

With hearts full of memories and memory cards full of images, we bid tearful goodbyes as our trusted driver drops you off at Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport to connect with your international flight.

Thank you for being part of this extraordinary journey — wishing you a safe trip home and many more adventures ahead!

Absolutely! Whether you’re accompanying a photography enthusiast or simply drawn to the rich cultural and spiritual experience, you’re more than welcome to join.

This photo tour is designed to be immersive and inclusive, offering much more than just photography. Over the years, we’ve had many non-photographers travel with us — spouses, partners, and cultural explorers — all of whom found the journey deeply enriching.

Even if you’re not behind the lens, there’s so much to experience: from witnessing sacred rituals and vibrant festivals to engaging with local communities and soaking in the breathtaking landscapes of Amdo. On previous trips, I’ve spent countless hours simply walking alongside local families, sharing moments, and taking in the atmosphere — without even lifting the camera.

So don’t worry — you won’t be left out. There’s a place for everyone on this journey.

You don’t need to be an athlete — normal physical fitness is perfectly sufficient to join the Monlam Chenmo Photo Tour.

That said, this is a physically engaging journey. We’ll be covering a wide area on foot, and you should be prepared to walk 5 to 7 kilometres a day, sometimes more, depending on the ceremonies and monastery visits.

More than fitness, I believe resilience and a sense of adventure are key. If you’re flexible, open to cultural immersion, and comfortable with a bit of unpredictability, you’ll thrive. While we won’t be roughing it — we’ll return to hotels each night for a good rest — the days can be long and the terrain uneven.

So, if you’re okay trading a bit of comfort for extraordinary moments, this journey is absolutely for you.

• Altitude Range: We will be travelling through elevations between 2,200 and 3,500 meters (7,200 to 11,500 feet). While this is considered moderate altitude, participants should be prepared for thinner air and potentially cooler temperatures, especially at night.
• Communication: China restricts access to many international mobile apps. Popular platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and Gmail will not work without a VPN. For local communication, WeChat is the most widely used app and may be necessary to stay in touch during the tour.
• Internet & Mobile Network: Connectivity may be inconsistent, particularly in remote areas and around monasteries. Please be prepared for limited or no internet access at times.
• Travel & Comfort: Some days will involve long drives, but we prioritize comfort and safety. All travel will be in air-conditioned 4×4 vehicles. We’ve arranged stays in the best available accommodations, including first-class hotels wherever possible to ensure your comfort after long days of exploration.

• This isn’t a luxury holiday. While we’ve arranged the best possible accommodations and comfortable travel, this is a photographic expedition, not a leisure vacation. Be prepared for early mornings, long days, and some physically demanding conditions.
• Challenging Weather: The weather can be harsh, especially at higher altitudes — expect cold temperatures, strong winds, and possibly snow or ice. Proper winter gear is essential.
• Comfort at Every Step: Despite our efforts to ensure a comfortable experience, remote monasteries, local eateries, and long drives may not always offer modern conveniences. There will be moments where patience and adaptability will go a long way.
• Predictable Schedules: This journey revolves around real-life monastic ceremonies and local traditions, which can be unpredictable or shift without notice. Flexibility is key, and sometimes, the most extraordinary moments come from the unplanned.

Altitude Sickness – Should I Be Concerned?

Yes, it’s important to be aware of the effects of high altitude. Much of the Tibetan plateau we’ll explore lies above 3,500 meters. While this tour is designed to allow for gradual acclimatization (beginning from Xining), some travellers may still experience symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

To minimize the risk:

• Arrive early in Xining or Chengdu to allow your body time to adapt.
• Rest upon arrival and avoid strenuous activity for the first day or two.
• Consider consulting your physician about Diamox (Acetazolamide) — a commonly prescribed altitude medication.
• Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol during the first few days.

💡 We will carry small portable oxygen support for emergencies during the tour

Vaccinations: What’s Recommended?

There are no mandatory vaccinations for entering or exiting China. However, several are strongly recommended for personal safety, especially due to food, water, and rural environmental exposure during the tour.

Core Recommendations (CDC/WHO):

• Typhoid (Recommended for travellers to most regions)
• Hepatitis A & B (Commonly recommended for travel to China.)
• Polio (Generally considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.)
• Japanese Encephalitis (Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travellers, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Cases were reported in all provinces except Tibet, Xinjiang and Qinghai. Most common June to October.)
• Rabies (High risk country. Vaccines are recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. Consider getting a rabies vaccination before travel, especially for longer trips, if you’re at risk, or if you want lifelong protection.)
• Chikungunya (rural areas only; very low recent cases)
• Tick-borne Encephalitis (mostly in northeast China)

Routine Travel Vaccinations:

• Influenza (annual shot)
• COVID-19 (up to date recommended)
• Pneumococcal (especially for 65+ or immunocompromised)
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) (Only one adult booster of pertussis is required.)
• Chickenpox & Shingles (if not already immune)
• Meningitis

🩺 It’s best to consult your physician at least 4–6 weeks before departure to discuss your personal needs.

We recommend consulting your doctor for advice on vaccinations. For more advice on vaccinations, you can also visit the WHO Travel Health Advisory.

Late February to early March in the Amdo region of Tibet is typically marked by dry, sunny days and clear blue skies, characteristic of the high-altitude Tibetan winter. Occasional light snowfall may also occur, adding a picturesque element to the landscapes.

Daytime temperatures are usually mild, ranging between 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). However, nights can be extremely cold, with temperatures often dropping to -5°C to -20°C (23°F to -4°F) or even lower, especially at higher elevations.

Participants should be well-prepared for crisp mornings, sharp nighttime chills, and generally dry conditions throughout the journey.

Arrival Airport: Xining Caojiabao Airport (XNN) 

Departure Airport: Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHW)

Travel Visa & Immigration

To visit Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau, you must obtain a valid Chinese tourist visa before your departure. It is generally easiest to apply through a Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country.

Visa Requirements Based on Region

• ✅ Amdo Region (where this tour takes place):
  You only need a standard Chinese visa to travel in the Tibetan cultural regions of Amdo and Kham, including Qinghai, Gansu, and Sichuan provinces.
• 🚫 Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR):
  Not applicable to this tour, but if you were planning to visit TAR (e.g., Lhasa), a Tibet Travel Permit and the presence of a licensed guide are mandatory, along with a car and driver arranged by an official agency.

Tourist Visa Notes

• You will need to apply for a Chinese “L” Tourist Visa for this journey.
• On the immigration/landing form, if asked, indicate that you are visiting as part of a group tour, and provide the name of our local tour operator. These details will be shared with you upon confirmation of your booking.
• Apply for your visa well in advance, ideally at least 4–6 weeks before your travel dates.

🔗 To check visa requirements based on your nationality, visit: Visa Map

Important Notice

Please note that obtaining a visa is your sole responsibility.
EXPOSURE cannot be held liable for denied entry or failure to acquire the required documents. No refunds will be issued if you are unable to join the tour due to visa issues.

Important Visa Tip: What to Write on Your Application

Should I write “Tibet” or Tibetan regions on my Chinese visa application?
Absolutely not. We strongly advise you not to mention Tibet or any Tibetan regions (such as Qinghai, Gansu, or western Sichuan) on your Chinese visa application — doing so may delay or result in the rejection of your visa

✅ What You Should Do:

• On your visa application, simply list well-known Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Chengdu, or Guangzhou.
• You are not obligated to visit the exact places listed on your application — this is normal and completely legal.

🚫 What You Should Avoid:

• Do not write “Tibet” or any locations in:
• The Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR)
• Qinghai Province
• Western Sichuan
• Southwestern Gansu
• Even though these areas may be part of your itinerary, mentioning them can trigger unnecessary scrutiny or cause your application to be rejected.

✍️ Final Notes:

• You can apply for a Chinese tourist visa (L visa) through the Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country, or in some cases, from a Chinese embassy abroad.
• Once your visa is issued, you are free to travel anywhere in China where foreign visitors are permitted, regardless of the places listed on your application.

Xining, the capital of Qinghai province, serves as a modern gateway to the Tibetan Plateau. While the city offers familiar comforts, the true spirit of this journey unfolds in the surrounding Tibetan regions—where ancient traditions, deep spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes shape everyday life.

The Tibetan people are renowned for their warmth, humility, and resilience. Despite the challenges of living at high altitudes, their hospitality knows no bounds. It’s not uncommon to be welcomed into a family’s home, offered freshly prepared food, or invited to share a cup of traditional butter tea—a symbol of friendship and generosity.

As you venture through villages and sacred monasteries, you’ll experience moments of quiet devotion and cultural richness. Whether it’s witnessing a kora procession around a monastery, hearing the chants of monks echo through the mountains, or simply observing daily life in a rural Tibetan village, these moments provide rare and deeply human connections.

This is not just a destination—it’s a place of living tradition, where spirituality is ever-present, and every smile or gesture of kindness feels like an invitation into something timeless.

Your safety and well-being are our highest priority. We work closely with our outstanding local team in China, who bring over a decade of on-the-ground experience in the Amdo region of Tibet. Their deep knowledge of the region ensures that every aspect of the tour—from logistics to cultural etiquette—is managed with precision and care.

Our local partners have successfully supported major international productions, including BBC Earth, National Geographic, and Discovery Channel, demonstrating their expertise and reliability in some of the most remote and culturally sensitive areas.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding safety, logistics, or the general conditions in the region, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

This is especially a cold-weather expedition, and your packing should reflect that. Weather in the Amdo region from late February to early March can be highly unpredictable—clear skies can quickly turn into snowfall, and you’ll be spending much of your time outdoors. Staying warm, dry, and comfortable is essential.

The golden rules:
Pack light and layer smartly. Temperatures can vary drastically throughout the day, and it’s not uncommon to experience the equivalent of all four seasons in one. Your best strategy is to wear lightweight, breathable layers that you can easily add or remove depending on the conditions.

A down jacket, thermal base layers, waterproof outerwear, and insulated footwear are crucial. If you plan to engage in snow activities or spend time in wet conditions, waterproof shoes, gloves, a windproof scarf, and snow gear are recommended.

You’ll find below our suggested packing list. For more detailed recommendations and weather-specific guidance, please refer to the Packing List & Climate Chart provided after booking confirmation

Suggested Packing List

• Waterproof winter jacket with hood (for extreme cold)
• Lightweight inner layers (4–7 warm, breathable layers recommended)
• Waterproof over-pants
• Comfortable snow boots or waterproof hiking boots
• Wool socks and long thermal underwear
• Warm hat, wool cap, and thermal gloves
• Backup gloves (especially if playing with snow)
• A scarf or windproof neck cover
• Sunglasses (plus a spare)
• Sunscreen and lip balm (high UV exposure at altitude)
• Thermoflask and 2L water bottle/case
• Wet tissues and personal hygiene supplies
• Basic personal medications (headache, fever, stomach upset, etc.)
• Insurance confirmation copy and emergency contact info
• Money pouch or travel belt
• Backpack with waterproof cover
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Anti-mosquito lotion (for indoor stays in lowland towns)
• Optional: Mask for wind/dust protection

Tip: Don’t overpack! Focus on practical, compact clothing. We’ll have luggage transfers arranged during hotel stays, but you’ll still want to travel light to stay agile.

Let me know if you’d like this in a downloadable PDF format or adapted for your website or welcome kit.

You should bring cameras, a laptop (for editing in the evenings), and a head torch these kinds of things instantly spring to mind. Don’t worry about recharging since we will have generators to top up our gear each night. Once you confirm your booking with a 40% deposit, we will send you all the information you need to fully prepare yourself for this epic journey.

This is just an idea about the suggested camera and accessory: 

• One or two DSLR or Mirrorless (Full Frame or Crop Sensor) cameras. If you use a full-frame DSLR or mirrorless camera, for much of the time, when photographing Eagle Hunters, you will want to cover focal lengths of around 24-70mm or 24-105mm and 70-200mm. However, a kit lens (18-55/3.5 or 4.0) will also work.
• If you bring a good quality bridge camera instead of a DSLR or mirrorless camera, it will be best if it has an optical zoom of 18-20x or more, combined with a reasonable wide angle at the other end of the zoom range.
• Protector for your lens. 
• Power Bank & Electric Socket Extension.
• Adequate memory card and Card reader.
• Be sure to bring plenty of spare battery power for your camera and external hard drive with adequate space and a card reader. 
• A Computer with photo-processing software [Lightroom, Photoshop]. (If you do not have this software, don’t worry we’ll provide it.)
• Carry a small size soft cloth or towel which you may require to wrap your camera if it’s snowing. 
• Carry a microfiber to wipe the lens if ice crystals form.

Some Recommendations: 

• You can choose any flight on Day -1, arriving before 1 p.m. It’s recommended to arrive a day or two earlier to rest and ensure you don’t develop altitude sickness. We can arrange extra occupancy with a very small amount in the same hotel and room if needed, so you won’t have to change rooms later. 

You can choose any flight on Day 1, arriving before 1 p.m. It’s recommended to arrive a day or two earlier to rest and ensure you don’t develop altitude sickness. We can arrange extra occupancy with a very small amount in the same hotel and room if needed, so you won’t have to change rooms later. 

• Only a maximum of 4 hardworking participants will be selected for this tour. This is not a fancy tour; it’s physically challenging and you have to walk a lot, so your physical fitness is very important. 
• Participants will be granted the expedition based on email confirmation on a first come first serve basis. Feel free to call +91 8509333385 or +918900702900 for any further assistance.

Registration is open from 1st June 2025 to 30th November 2025 or till the seat reservations end.

To reserve your spot, a 50% deposit of the full tour amount is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance must be paid 60 days before the tour. You can pay via the online payment link on our website or request our account details or PayPal information for the transfer. Your reservation may be cancelled if full payment is not received by the specified deadline. After making the payment, please send us a copy or screenshot of the bank receipt. Upon confirmation, we will email you the Rules and Regulations of the tour, securing your spot on the photo tour.

All cancellations must be made in writing (email is acceptable) and will take effect on the date of receipt (by standard mail or electronically). Once the tour begins, there can be no refunds for any unused portions, including rooms, meals, flights, tour days, events, or services. Please note the cancellation penalties outlined below are based on costs incurred by EXPOSURE on your behalf, including non-refundable deposits or payments to agents, hotels, airlines, etc.

In the event of a cancellation or modification of your confirmed booking, EXPOSURE’s Cancellation and Refund Policy will apply, and you must fully agree to be bound by them. Any refunds will be processed within 15 working days from the date of written confirmation of cancellation, via the same method used for payment.

Cancellation fees are as follows:

• 40% of the total fee if cancelled 90 days or more before the start of the trip.
• 100% of the total fee if cancelled 59 days or less before the start of the trip.

Please carefully read all details on this page and the Detailed Terms and Conditions, as well as the Disclaimer/Undertaking in the Registration cum Booking Form.

Trip cancellation by EXPOSURE:

• In the unlikely event that EXPOSURE must cancel a tour or workshop due to a lack of participants or any other reason, a full refund, including the deposit, will be issued.
• We will notify you in advance if a cancellation is being considered. If a photo tour is cancelled, 100% of your deposit and payments will be refunded.
• However, EXPOSURE is not liable for any expenses incurred, such as airfare, accommodations, or equipment costs. For this reason, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage.