S
Sarah M.
2026 · May Verified trekker
Completed: Galuo to Jihu Lake
Achuo got us over the pass on a clear morning — saw a 7,000m peak through the clouds, I cried. Best tsampa of my life at Tashi's home.
Manigango · Kham
Galuo to Jihu Lake
A 4-day traverse from the village of Galuo to the sacred alpine lake Jihu, crossing a 4,900m pass and staying each night in traditional Tibetan mountain shelters.
Duration
4 Days
Distance
~120 km
Highest Point
4,900 m
Difficulty
Moderate
Overview
This is the route most travelers to Manigango end up taking — and the one most fall in love with. Four days of slow movement through high meadows, across one substantial pass, and into the sacred alpine lake that has drawn pilgrims and herders for centuries.
You start at Galuo, a small Tibetan village an hour's drive from Manigango. From there, the trail climbs gradually through yak pastures, then up to the pass at 4,900 meters. The descent on the other side opens into a different world — wider, greener, and finally to the still waters of Jihu.
Every night is spent in a different traditional shelter. The pace is unhurried. The company is yak herders, monks on pilgrimage, and occasionally other travelers — but never crowds.
Day by Day
Day 1
Galuo → Summer Pasture Camp
Start from Galuo village (3,800m). Gentle ascent through yak pastures to a summer herder camp at 4,100m. ~18 km, 6-7 hours walking. First night in a traditional shelter — wood stove, butter tea, and the sound of yaks outside.
Day 2
Summer Pasture → High Camp
The hardest day. Climb to a high camp at 4,700m in preparation for the pass. ~14 km, 5-6 hours. Shorter day but higher altitude — drink water, rest often, watch the marmots.
Day 3
High Camp → Cherta Pass → Jihu Side
Cross the pass at 4,900m early in the morning. Reward: views to the north you will not forget. Long descent to the Jihu-side shelter at 3,500m. ~22 km, 8-9 hours. The longest day, and the most rewarding.
Day 4
Jihu Side → Jihu Lake → Return
Short morning walk to the lake itself. Time for prayer flags, photographs, and silence. Return to the pickup point by early afternoon. ~12 km, 4 hours walking.
Included
- · Local Tibetan guide (English-speaking)
- · 3 nights traditional shelter accommodation
- · All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- · Yak or horse for gear transport
- · Emergency oxygen & first aid kit
- · Pre-trek briefing & altitude consultation
Not included
- · Transport to Galuo (can be arranged)
- · Personal trekking gear (rental available)
- · Travel insurance (required)
- · Tips for guides and shelter families
- · Alcoholic beverages
Practical Information
Best Season
June to early October. September is ideal — clear skies, stable weather, fewer trekkers.
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required. You should be comfortable walking 6-8 hours per day on uneven terrain. Altitude is the main challenge, not distance.
Group Size
2 to 8 people. Smaller groups are better for both the experience and the impact on the trail.
Altitude
Max 4,900m. We recommend spending 2-3 days acclimatizing in Manigango before starting. Diamox available locally.
Ready to take the first step?
We run this trek from June through October. Tell us your dates and we'll confirm availability within 24 hours.
Inquire about this trekfrom
¥2,880/ person
Start Here
Book Galuo to Jihu Lake
Reach out to 阿逴 to confirm dates. 30% deposit to lock the slot.
Price
¥2,880/ person
Includes guide, lodging, some meals
Duration
4 days
Moderate
Group
Max 8 guests
Led personally by 阿逴
Refundable 30+ days out · High-altitude insurance included
What travelers say
★★★★★
4.9 from 23 treks M
Marcus K.
2025 · August Verified trekker
Completed: Galuo to Jihu Lake
The 4,900m pass was harder than I expected. Achuo was patient, kept a steady pace, and told stories that made us forget the burning lungs. 10/10.
Y
Yuki T.
2025 · October Verified trekker
Completed: Galuo to Jihu Lake
Jihu Lake at dawn is something you can't prepare for. The mirror reflection of the mountains is unreal. Achuo's photography game is also 🔥.
D
David P.
2025 · July Verified trekker
Completed: Galuo to Jihu Lake
Stunning trek. Lost one star because weather closed the pass on day 3 — but Achuo rerouted us and we still had an incredible time. His flexibility was the highlight.