Tibetan Mountain Ranges and Peaks: Ultimate Guide

The best part about visiting the South Asian part of the globe is the Himalayas. The Tibetan mountain ranges and chains always leave each visitor fascinated, and when you visit some of the popular Himalayan countries, especially Tibet, you will surely be taken aback by the beauty of the peaks.

There is more than just one Tibetan peak. When you visit Tibet or even the neighboring countries of the land, including India and Nepal, you’ll find your heart and eyes immersed in the alluring features of the mountains.

Whether you are going to the base camp or simply just looking to take time off your busy schedules for a refreshing tour or trek, these peaks will help you spend the time of your lives in the Tibetan mountain ranges and the hills.

Make sure to read till the end of this article to learn everything you need to about Tibetan mountain ranges and peaks!

An Overview Of Tibetan Mountain Ranges Peaks In Tibet

You will have heard several names of the mountains that lie in Tibet. Tibet is not a country but a part of China. Hence, when you think about the Himalayas, you might as well think about this small yet very rich region of the vast country.

Tibetan mountains are snowy all year long. The rules are always stricter for visitors who are coming to pay a visit to Tibetan mountain ranges and peaks. However, this has made it possible for travelers to have a good time without compromising on proper experiences in the peaks.

By Tibetan mountain ranges, we are not only referring to the peaks that solely fall within Tibet. It could be mountains that fall in Tibet while also being a part of many other countries. This further makes it possible for trekkers and travelers to visit more than just one country at a time.

Some of the popular mountains to visit or travel nearby in Tibet include Mount Everest, Mount Kailash, Mount Cho Oyu, Nyenchen Tanglha, and Namche Barwa. Moreover, your journey to visit the Tibetan mountain ranges can further give you an insight into the culture and lifestyle that are followed by people living in different parts of the world, especially China.

The mountains are open for almost everyone from just about any country of the world to visit. If there are any issues with paying a visit to any of the Tibetan mountains, then you will be guided thoroughly by the trekking agency that you trust.

Above the Himalaya Trekking specializes in guided tours in and around the mountains of Tibet. Regardless of where you are starting your journey, we make sure to keep our visitors as comfortable and as convenient as possible. If you choose to extend your trip from Tibet to any other location in Nepal or Bhutan, that can also be managed.

In addition to this, we also facilitate group treks. Anyone who is traveling solo can, without a second thought, join us in our group travels. We explore almost every Tibetan mountain known to you.

Mountains In Tibet To Visit

You will be visiting different mountains of your choice when you come for the journey to the Tibetan mountain ranges. A large portion of the Himalayan chain extending from East to West is claimed by the region of Tibetan mountain ranges. Some of the most prominent peaks to visit during your visit are as follows:

Mount Everest

Many mountaineers and trekkers make it their life’s goal to summit the tallest mountain in the world, Mount Everest. Climbing the peak is not always possible. But your climb can still be managed if you have the mentality and strength necessary.

When we talk about going to Mount Everest, however, we are not always referring to climbing it. You can simply visit the Everest base camp, which is not at all a difficult journey if you have decent physical fitness and expertise in trekking.

During your visit to Mount Everest, you will be entering the mountain region through either the Tibetan or the Nepali part of the mountain. Both parts are equally favorable for the journey. Once you have secured the Chinese Visa, you can select a suitable route of your choice by consulting with the trekking agency.

You will reach the mountain via Northease Ridge if you start from Tibet. This is one of the easiest and most preferred routes to visit Mount Everest. Trekkers can take a flight to Lhasa or travel by Tibet train before coming to the destination where they will start their trek towards Mount Everest.

Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash is a famous pilgrimage destination for Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims worldwide. It is just as popular for trekking journeys among trekkers and mountaineers all around the world. Unlike other peaks in our list, Mount Kailash is forbidden for expedition.

You can visit the base camp and the famous Kailash temple when you are on this journey. Another element to explore during your trip to Mount Kailash is Lake Mansarovar. The lake originates from Mount Kailash.

The mountain, likewise, is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is the most powerful God in Hinduism. When you are exploring Mount Kailash, the time stops. To this date, there has been no scientific proof as to how or why this happens.

Trekkers will find themselves immersed in the journey in every possible way because of the spiritual aura and factors of beauty they find along the way. That being said, Mount Kailash is a good trek for all kinds of travelers, regardless of their age.

Parents of young children and guardians of elderly people need to keep in mind that the mountains may have a negative effect on their respiratory system. The best thing to do would be to consult a physician before the trip or simply avoid the trip.

Other than that, anyone who has trained well for a trekking journey to the mountains can continue the trek. If you are not able to trek, then you can have a mule and a porter help you up the mountains.

Nyenchen Tanglha

Nyenchen Tanglha or Nyainqêntanglha Feng is one of the tallest mountains in Tibet. These Tibetan mountain ranges are filled with green hills, a blue lake, and a mountain chain with snow that falls all year long. Since it is one of the tallest mountains in Tibet, you need a good amount of trekking experience in order to carry on with your journey there.

The mountain has great significance among Tibetan people. And, there is a large crowd of people who visit the peak from all around the globe. You will be able to take a round in Lhasa and sit beside the serene Lake Namtso.

Mount Cho Oyu

Mount Cho Oyu falls under the eight tallest mountains in the world. It is just as possible for enthusiastic mountaineers to climb this mountain. When you are on your way to Mount Cho Oyu, you will be able to experience the beauty and blend of Nepalese and Tibetan cultures.

Cho Oyu lies between Nepal and China. Further, it is one of the easiest mountains to climb among the 14 eight-thousanders. During your visit to the mountain, you will be able to see cattle farms, pass through hilly trails, and move towards the colder and more adventurous mountainous parts.

Like every other mountain on our list, Mount Cho Oyu also takes one to have the best possible physical fitness to expedite the mountain. You should not take elderly people and children to this mountain if they are not physically able or are simply at risk of respiratory issues.

Everyone else who is of age and does not mind physical activities is highly suggested to experience the unbeatable beauty of this peak at least once in their lives.

Namche Barwa

While every other mountain on our list has been expedited or explored by mountaineers and trekkers all around the world, Namche Barwa is an exception. It was only in the nineties that this mountain had been climbed.

Additionally, there have not been many who have been to this mountain or even known this mountain. The peak was only popular and known among the Tibetan inhabitants for a long period.

As of today, many mountaineers and trekkers have trekked to it or around the mountain. Not many adventurers have summited the mountain. But they have been able to come close to the mountain and take the best possible view of it during the journey.

The Yarlung Tsangpo River and the Yarlung Tsangpo River Gorge (considered the deepest gorge in the world), are located near the Namche Barwa. These are two of the major highlights of your trip to Namche Barwa.

Karakoram Mountain Range

Karakoram Mountain Range is another popular mountain range that falls to Tibet and Kashmir. Your journey to this mountain range will let you go through the most scenic routes. The mountains are not the only highlights of this journey.

From the unique culture of each of the locations to the beauty of both the hills and the mountains, you will get a lot to explore on this trip. There are a total of nineteen mountains in this mountain chain.

You will find a large number of tourists and travelers coming for a visit to each of the mountains in this range all year long. The peak seasons are very crowded, but it only makes your travel more educational and interactive.

The Karakoram Mountain Range has mostly been summited by expediters with a good amount of experience in trekking and mountaineering. Therefore, it becomes necessary for each of the travelers to make their visit once they have trained properly.

People who are old or too young to expedite the mountains are prohibited from climbing the mountains in the range because most of the peaks are very high. Anyone with good physical fitness and soundness of mind, who are also of appropriate age can visit the mountains in the range.

Kunlun Mountains

Kunlun Mountains refers to the mountain chain situated east of the Pamirs Plateau. The tallest mountain in this range is the Liushi Shan. Besides this mountain, the highlights of this mountain range are the Kunlun Mountain Pass, Yuxu Mountain, Yuzhu Mountain, Golmud River, and Kunlun Spring.

At least six mountains in this range are above the height of 6000m. The tour of this mountain range makes up for a serene journey. Travelers can travel up to a certain distance around the mountain range without climbing the mountains as per their choice.

The Kunlun Mountains are one of the most famous mountain ranges in Tibet. Since they are not very famous among tourists, the traveler rate in the region is not as high as is in Mount Everest and Mount Kailash. But, this does not make it any less preferable for a memorable and comfortable trip among the Tibetan mountain ranges.

Hengduan Mountain Range

The Hengduan mountain range is popular for the scenic mountains and rivers that are close to the ranges. The rivers originate from the peaks. The panoramic beauty of the mountain range and the surroundings is exceptional.

Though a very prominent mountain range in Tibet, it is not very famous among those who are not Tibetan. But this makes the location even more thrilling for travel. The Hengduan mountain range is best for travelers who want to travel in peace.

The mountain range has the most typical mountain system in Tibet, stretching from north to south. It is also the longest and the widest system in the region.

Tanggula Mountain Range

You will travel through the hills and move towards the Tanggula mountain range of Tibet, which is located between Qinghai Province and Tibet. The mountain range connects with the Karakoram mountain range.

It is also the source of the Yangtze River and Nu River. The mountain range holds great significance in China. Unlike most other Tibetan mountain ranges and peaks in our list, this mountain range in Tibet only falls inside China and does not interconnect with any other countries.

The mountain range is suitable for travelers who want to go on a peaceful tour. The area around this mountain range is not very crowded. Tanggula mountain range also has mountains above 5000m, which makes it a good choice for trekkers and travelers to visit.

Best Time To Visit Tibetan Mountain Ranges

Visiting mountains is no joke. You have to choose the best time of the year to go to such locations. The rule of choosing the best time of the year is the same for all the aforementioned mountains in Tibet.

Trekkers and travelers usually avoid visiting the mountains in Tibet during off-seasons, which are usually summer, monsoon, and winter. The summer and monsoon are mostly not counted as peak seasons because of the possibility of rainfall.

Summer can also get excessively hot. This may lead to uneasiness and sweatiness among trekkers. Experienced and active trekkers may not face an issue like this because they are usually used to such situations.

There are plenty of adrenaline junkies who still go for a visit to the Tibetan mountain ranges during off-seasons. But, we suggest staying safe and cautious before beginning the trip. Winter, likewise, is not counted as a peak season. In a single year, there are few mountaineers and
trekkers who choose to visit the peaks during this season.

Unlike summer, monsoon, fall, and spring, winter is always open to snowfall. Snowfall often proves to be a hassle on the pathway of the trekkers. You need to have adequate resilience and expertise to complete a trekking journey through snow.

Temperature drops can also lead to challenges in breathing and staying comfortable. Sometimes, even after you wear heavy clothes, you cannot quite bear the excessive cold. This is also a reason why summits to the Tibetan mountains are forbidden during extreme winter seasons.

Winter is preferred by those who want to make winter expeditions. Such expeditions are not as common as are the journeys during peak seasons. The cost of journeys to the mountains is going to be a little cheaper in the off-season.

The flight cost might also be less costly. There may be difficulty in finding the perfect place for accommodation and the best amenities in each of the locations you visit.
Similarly, the following are two of the best times or peak seasons to visit the mountains in Tibet:

Fall

Fall is popular among trekkers because of the good weather, freshness in the air, clarity in the sky, and good flow of trekkers and travelers in the Tibetan mountains. Fall months begin in August and extend up to November.

During fall, you will be able to trek without facing the issue of excessive heat or cold. The mountains are just as aesthetic in appearance during this season. If you are a photographer, then you will get the perfect shot of the landscapes in the fall.

Travelers don’t have to carry too much load in the fall because they can easily travel with only a limited number of supplies and gear. The accommodation, including every other amenities, is also available without issue during this season.

Spring

Another peak season is just as favorable for trekkers and travelers to visit Tibetan mountain ranges. This is the season of the bloom. Though the mountains are not known for having the richest floral aspects, you can find yourself impressed by the beauty and greenery of the hills in your trails.

Spring brings in freshness in the air and there is no rain throughout this season. Since you will be traveling in the mountains, this season does not bring in unwanted snowfall, either. The sky is pleasant all through spring too.

If you want to take pictures of the surroundings and the mountains, you will not get a better opportunity than you will during the spring season. Moreover, trekkers will have to carry only the basic trekking and traveling gear and equipment leaving out the need to carry additional of anything as such.

You will also get the perfect chance to interact with fellow travelers from different countries of the world. This makes your experience fun, interesting, and educational as well. Since the weather is favorable, the amenities, including accommodation in each of the mountainous
regions will easily be available.

How To Prepare For A Visit To Tibetan Mountain Ranges And Peaks?

You have to be well prepared before you begin your journey to the mountains in Tibet. From the equipment you need to carry to the things you should keep in mind before, during, and after your travel, the preparation should be done mindfully.

The following are all the ways you can prepare for a visit to Tibetan mountain ranges and peaks:

Carry Necessary Permits

Travelers should not leave behind or miss out on carrying any necessary permits. The following are the most essential ones to carry when you are going to any Tibetan mountain:

● Tibet Travel Permit: This permit is mandatory for all tourists who are visiting Tibet.
● Alien’s Travel Permit: You will need this permit if you are traveling to any part of remote Tibet. The remote parts include every Tibetan mountain making this permit compulsory.
● Restricted Areas Permit: You cannot go to just about any area without getting permission. This permit allows you to explore more areas in your travel than you could without it.
● Frontier Pass: The Frontier Pass is the pass you will need to travel to any remote area in Tibet that may go beyond its border and connect to another country.

Pack Wisely

Travelers need to keep in mind that they’ll have to pack wisely to complete their travel to the Tibetan mountains. Most parts of your travel are going to be rural areas. This means you cannot always get a shop to buy essentials anytime you want.

The trekkers and travelers will have to find everything they are going to need, including clothing pieces, the right pair of shoes, equipment, and any miscellaneous objects before they get started with their travel.

Likewise, you have to be just as mindful when you are packing. Trekkers tend to carry less than they need because they don’t want to carry too much. But this may lead to many issues along the way. You are the only one who can make yourself as comfortable as possible and packing the right way determines the convenience you will be at in your journey.

If you are worried about having to carry too much equipment and stuff on your trip, then you can easily hire a porter or a mule to carry the load. It may add some load to your pockets but nothing beats comfort, safety, and success in the journey.

You have to be just as thoughtful about not carrying too much. The more you carry, the more you are going to have on your shoulders. Your bags should be as heavy as you need. It is best to follow a packing list before you pack.

Go For An Organized Tour

Trekkers and tourists often make the mistake of not organizing their tours properly. You cannot randomly go on a trip and expect yourself to succeed. Traveling on the basis of what you find on the internet never really helps in leading a successful journey, especially when it is to a location like any of the Tibetan mountain ranges.

It is better to rely on a dependable trekking agency than to blindly move with the bits of knowledge you get from any source. Organized tours are meant for everyone and even beginner-level travelers can easily complete such journeys.

To accomplish a tour at a location like either one of the Tibetan mountains, confidence is going to be the key. And, you can only do that when everything is pre-planned, well-prepared, and guaranteed for success.

Remain Knowledgable On Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness can be harsh on trekkers and travelers. The sickness makes it impossible for travelers to go beyond a certain distance and many times than not, they have to return from their goal destination.

But, there are plenty of remedies to avoid and get rid of altitude sickness that you can pay attention to before you start or during your travel. Altitude sickness is not a disease. It is simply a condition an individual suffers from when his body is not able to habituate to its surroundings.

The higher the altitude of your trip, the more there will be a chance of suffering from altitude sickness. But, acclimatization works like a miracle when this happens. When you go slow, your body will get used to the changing altitude just as steadily.

The more oxygen your body gets, the easier it will be for you to avoid altitude sickness. A main reason for trekkers and travelers to suffer from altitude sickness is increasing their speed while going uphill. The slower you go and the more you rest, you can not only get rid of but avoid the condition entirely.

There are many ways you can cure altitude sickness. Many mountaineers tend to take an oxygen cylinder with them when they are trekking or summiting a mountain. This will help them get enough air when necessary. But, it is often only necessary when you are climbing the mountains.

If you feel a sense of nausea, dizziness, headache, and intense body aches, it is best for you to pause your tour. The symptoms may be intense in some cases. In such situations, it is best to get back to the base camp or simply descend without trying to push further.

In cases with less severity for altitude sickness, you can slow down and continue your journey when you feel better. You should also consult with a physician before you go on this trip to see if you are suffering from any condition and seek medications accordingly.

Check Expedition Rules

You must check the expedition rules before you visit any of the Tibetan mountain ranges and peaks. Some mountains in Tibet are forbidden for climbs and tours while others are suitable for travel.

There may be challenges in dealing with the authorities if you don’t follow the expedition rules. Almost every Tibetan peak and mountain range in our list is open for visits. Summiting is where the problem might be.

You should consult with the travel guides and the touring agencies about the expedition rules before you choose which peak or mountain range you want to visit.

Follow Ethics And Regulations

Travelers must follow the ethics and regulations of each of the locations they are traveling to without compromise. When you are respectful of the traditions, culture, and lifestyle of the people living in remote areas you’re traveling, you will get the respect back.

Tibet is very strict with rules and ethics. Hurting the sentiments of local people should be avoided at all times. You should try to learn a few ethical practices along with phrases in local languages with the help of fellow travelers and your local guide during your trip.

Travelers should also keep in mind that they should not use certain words and show certain body language to the locals during their travel. When you are communicating with the locals, try to keep a respectful distance and be as polite as you can.

Physical And Mental Preparation

You have to physically and mentally prepare yourself before getting started with your Tibetan mountains ranges tour. Travelers will be crossing the toughest roads they will have in their lifetime.
Even if you are an adventurer with a good amount of experience, you need to stay prepared for the physical tests ahead of you.

We say this not because you have to face unbeatable challenges but because you have to stay strong throughout the tour. The physical preparation is not going to be very difficult. You can simply hit the gym, practice cardio, jog a few kilometers every day, or go on treks close to where
you live.

To prepare yourself mentally, you have to do a thorough research on what you are getting yourself into. If you find yourself questioning a lot about travel, then it is best to consult with your trekking and travel agency properly. You can also consult and discuss the trip with a professional who has prior experience of touring the Tibetan mountains.

A traveler looking to tour the mountains must also be mentally ready for the journey. You can be in your best physical shape and not be as confident as you should be sometimes. This may lead to challenges in the tour.

Get Travel Insurance Ready

Getting your travel insurance ready helps you tour without worry in the back of your mind. Insurance ensures safety as well as security. You can follow the most trustworthy insurance provider for tours specializing in the Tibetan mountains before the trip.

The travel insurance will not necessarily be used all the time. But the peace of mind it provides you in the long run is all that matters. Also, it can be considered compulsory for travelers to seek travel insurance before they start their journey.

Follow Eco-friendly Practices during your Tibetan mountain ranges trip

When you are touring the Tibetan mountains, you have to follow eco-friendly practices throughout your time there. The mountains in Tibet have been protected for a long time now. And, the frequency of visits has caused the naturally beautiful locations to degrade with time.

The protection laws in Tibet are very strict. But, this does not mean that travelers have not, to an extent, polluted the mountains. If you get caught harming the environment or littering, then strict actions will be taken against you by the authorities.

It is always best for the trekkers to remain cautious and careful during the journey. You can seek suggestions from your guides as to how you need to conduct yourself in order to follow the eco-friendly rules in Tibetan mountainous areas.

Hydrate And Eat Properly

Traveling in the mountains always makes a traveler sensitive to exhaustion. You have to remain active throughout your journey and you can do that by drinking enough water and eating healthy food in the right amount.

The teahouses and hotels along the way are going to be your best support for a healthy diet which is just as suitable for your tour. Do not eat too much junk food because it may cause vomiting and nausea.

Similarly, be sure to avoid oily and extremely sweet food. Such food can also cause you to feel uneasy and nauseous. Food with high protein, adequate carbs, and fats is recommended for your tour of the mountains in Tibet.

Make sure to carry a bottle that holds up to 1 to 2 liters of water. There won’t be many places where you can fill your bottle with clean and pure drinking water. You can use water purifying tablets in the water you fill your bottle to ensure cleanliness and purity.

Follow The Rules For Photography

You cannot take pictures in whichever place you want during your travel. The authorities in several locations around the Tibetan mountains are very strict. When you click pictures without permission, they are likely to take strict actions against you.

Following photography rules means you have to seek permission from the authorities of the certain place you are visiting. Once they permit you, you can take pictures and videos as per your liking.

Travelers also have to remain mindful about not being too fussy when they are not allowed to take pictures. Following the rules of the locations you are touring is very important to have a smooth and exciting travel.

Break Down Your Shoes And Socks Before The  Tibetan Mountain Ranges Journey

Trekkers should be mindful to break down their socks and shoes before they begin their journey. Wearing tight or fitted shoes and socks can be harmful to your toes. Such shoes and socks are going to congest your feet which may cause them to become wounded and uncomfortable.

If you are especially trekking then you should not wear new shoes and socks. Wearing socks and shoes that have already been worn before is highly recommended. Shoes and socks also determine the success of your trek. Make sure to wear the right pair.

Packing List For Tour To Tibetan Mountain Ranges And Peaks

As mentioned before, it is best to keep a packing list for a tour of Tibetan mountain ranges and peaks. A packing list helps you avoid both underpacking and overpacking.
You can follow the list below before you pack:

Clothes And Footwear for the Tibetan mountain ranges

● Down jacket
● Fleece Jacket
● Thermal inner tops and bottoms
● Trekking trousers
● Pajamas and comfortable sleepwear
● Leg Warmers
● Trekking socks
● Trekking boots
● Sneakers
● Double-layered and single-layered gloves
● Shorts and Tshirts (for hotter months)
● Slippers
● Beanie
● Sunhat
● Comfortable cotton underwear

Gears, Equipment, And Safety Essentials

● Trekking pole
● Headlamp
● Crampons
● Duffel bag
● First aid kit (will be provided by our trekking agency)
● Medications (as prescribed by your doctor)
● Sanitary pads, tampons, or period cups for women
● Water purifying tablets

Miscellaneous

● Camera
● Journal/ Notebook
● Pen/ Pencil
● Charger
● Spare camera batteries
● Cash
● Any additional minor essentials that may come to mind

Conclusion

Tibetan mountain ranges and peaks have long been sought by visitors, whether they are pilgrims or adventurers. Trekking and touring with the right trekking company is a necessity when you are on a journey like this one.

Above the Himalayas has almost two decades of experience in guided tours. We specialize in providing our clients with the best tours along the Tibetan mountain ranges and peaks. You will find every convenient facility during each of your tours.

If you choose to extend your trip and visit another destination, then you can opt for it with us, without an issue. From guided tours to group treks, you can seek our help and guidance for journeys of your preference.