A SACRED MOUNTAIN
a circular journey
Rising above 6,200 meters, Mount Genyen is one of the major sacred peaks of Kham. This caravan offers a partial circumambulation of the massif, in the spirit of great Tibetan journeys, progressing day after day around the mountain. Landscapes unfold without repetition: vast alpine meadows, glacial rivers, hidden valleys, and forests of millennia-old Tibetan cypresses. Each camp is carefully chosen, facing the peaks or nestled at the forest’s edge. More than a trek, this is a journey of passage, shaped by walking, encounters, and the constant presence of the mountain, with camps worthy of the great explorations of the past.
The age-old echoes of pilgrims and travelers from beyond the seas mingle with the deep song of the mountains.
A COMMITTED AND UNIQUE EXPLORATION
This Exploration Caravan is designed for travelers seeking authenticity, ready to engage both physically and mentally in a truly exceptional adventure. The comfort of the camps, the quality of logistics, and the experience of our teams allow you to focus on what truly matters: walking, nature, and isolation. No mobile network, no tourist infrastructure—only the mountain, a few monasteries, and the trail. Each day brings its share of surprises, occasional fatigue, and above all, rare and powerful moments. A sincere journey, faithful to the original spirit of the Liotard Caravan.
programme 6 days
6 days of trekking in the heart of Tibetan Kham.
Walking level: the main challenge of this itinerary is the altitude; the walking itself is very accessible.
Day 1 : Shangri-la to Litang County
Departure by vehicle at 7:00 am from Shangri-La toward Litang. Breakfast stop in Benzilan, followed by a drive along the Jinsha River to Xiangcheng for lunch. Continuation via the Zhuosang village viewpoint (4,620 m), offering distant views of the “Rabbit Ear Mountain.” Arrival in Litang (4,000 m), known as the “City in the Sky.” Check-in at a comfortable guesthouse and visit of the old town.
Driving distance: approx. 452 km – 8 hours
Day 2 : Litang to Lenggu Monastery (camp)
After breakfast, drive toward Lenggu Monastery at the foot of Mount Genyen. Crossing Nilangcuo Pass (approx. 4,800 m) with views of the main summit. Visit of the monastery and hike toward the former monastery site facing the eternal snows. Possible sightings of bharal herds.
Hiking distance: approx. 6 km – Duration: 4 h – Elevation gain: +180 m – Max altitude: 4,074 m
Day 3 : Beginning the Mount Genyen Circumambulation
Departure with the muleteer team to walk along the slopes of the main summit. Crossing primary forests and alpine meadows. Evening camp by a river, facing the peak glowing with golden light at sunset.
Hiking distance: approx. 10 km – Duration: 7 h – Elevation gain: +600 m – Max altitude: 4,450 m
Day 4 : Valleys and Ancient Cypress Forests
Continuation toward a new valley after crossing a scree ridge. Discovery of the entire Genyen massif and camp installation beside the river, at the edge of a forest of millennia-old Tibetan cypresses.
Hiking distance: approx. 9 km – Duration: 6 h – Elevation gain: +330 m – Max altitude: 4,472 m
Day 5 : Exploring the Batang Valleys
A gentler day dedicated to exploring deep valleys. Optional ascent to a panoramic plateau facing Mount Genyen, depending on the group’s condition.
Hiking distance: 5–11 km – Duration: 3–6 h – Elevation gain: +50 to +200 m – Max altitude: 4,320–4,500 m
Day 6 : Return to Shangri-La
Morning walk down along the river to the road, then return by vehicle to Shangri- La via village tracks. Lunch en route and arrival in the late afternoon.
Driving distance: approx. 328 km – 7 hours
