Things To Do
in Gabasumdo

A short uphill walk from the village leads to a ridge strewn with colorful prayer flags — ideal for sunrise and sunset panorama shots with mountains in the background.

Photos of ancient mani walls, carved woodwork and monks in traditional robes provide cultural depth; always ask permission inside and respect restricted areas.

Seasonal alpine lakes reflect peaks and skies; calm mornings produce mirror-like reflections popular with landscape photographers.

Close-up shots of pastoral life — tethered yaks, tents and daily chores — make strong documentary images; ask first before photographing people.

Roasted barley flour mixed with butter tea or yak butter — a staple you’ll see at homes and monasteries; easy to find in homes and local tea houses.

Must-Try!

Steamed or fried dumplings filled with yak meat or vegetables; common street/guesthouse snack and perfect for a warm bite after a trek.

Hearty noodle soup with yak or mutton, vegetables and spices — comforting at altitude and widely available in simple eateries.

Salty, high-calorie tea made with yak butter and milk; a local staple for energy and warmth — offered in most households and tea houses.

Weekly or daily market where locals sell dairy products, tsampa, dried meat and simple snacks; a good spot to sample fresh cheese and local breads.

Small stalls near the monastery or bus stop serving butter tea, momos and buns — convenient for quick local flavors.

Dress modestly, speak quietly and follow signs for restricted areas. Always walk clockwise around prayer wheels and mani walls.

Seek permission before photographing people, especially monks and elders. A small gift or a smile goes a long way.

Remove shoes when entering private homes and some religious spaces. Avoid touching anyone’s head — it’s considered the most sacred part of the body.

Small practical gifts (sweets for children, basic medical supplies) are appreciated; avoid excessive displays of wealth and be humble in interactions.

Tipping is not customary in remote Tibetan villages and often unnecessary; small cash gifts or purchases (tea, small souvenirs) are appreciated. For private guides and drivers, a modest tip is accepted if service was excellent.

Cash (Chinese yuan/CNY) is essential in Gabasumdo; mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are common in towns but may not work in remote villages. Carry sufficient cash and small denominations for local purchases.

Melting snow and warming days bring blooming alpine flowers and grazing yaks returning to pastures; variable weather and muddy trails are common — pack waterproof layers.

Mild daytime temperatures and long daylight hours are ideal for trekking, but afternoon showers and occasional storms occur; most roads are open and small tea houses operate fully.

Clear skies and crisp air make this the best season for photography and high-altitude hiking; temperatures drop quickly at night so warm layers are necessary.

Severe cold, heavy snow and short daylight limit travel; many guesthouses close and passes can be blocked — only travel in winter if well-prepared and experienced.

A moderate loop that links the main monastery, mani walls and a ridge of prayer flags — suitable for a half-day hike with cultural stops.

A scenic day hike to an alpine lake past yak pastures and wildflower meadows; best in summer and early autumn for good trail conditions.

A longer route crossing grazing land and offering panoramic views of surrounding peaks; ideal for sunrise photography and birdwatching.

A challenging trek over a local mountain pass that connects to a neighboring valley — requires a guide and good fitness, and may be snowbound outside summer.