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Gama Valley means star in Tibetan. It is located on Gama Zangbu (also written as Ganma Zangbu or Kamaqu on the map), an important tributary of the lower reaches of Pengqu River. It stretches from the south of Qudang Township, Dingri County to the east of Chentang Town, Dingjie County. The main part is in the south of Qudang Township. It is a valley formed by erosion of snow-capped mountains and rivers. It is 55 kilometers long and has an altitude ranging from 2,100 to more than 5,000 meters.
It is world-famous for its steep canyons, lush forests, colorful azaleas, and clear springs. From Gama Valley, you can see the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, and its eastern slope, while from its northern slope you can see Mount Makalu, the world's fifth highest peak.
In the last century, American and British explorers visited Gama Valley and were captivated by its dreamlike natural beauty, praising it as "the most beautiful valley in the world" and "one of the world's top ten scenic sights." Today, few people reach Gama Valley, and this stunning valley still nestles peacefully in the embrace of Mount Everest, enjoying the solitary and majestic beauty of this pure, snow-covered land.
The best time to hike in Gama Valley is from June to October, when the rainy season is over and the weather is clear, and you can easily see famous peaks such as Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu.
There are four hiking routes in and out of Gama Valley: crossing the Langmala Pass; crossing the Xiaowula Pass; crossing the Sangqiongla Pass; and entering and exiting from Chentang along the Gama Zangbo.
Grand Loop
Qudang Township → Youpa Village → Xiaowucuo → Xiaowula Pass → Zhuoxiang → Xianong → Tangxiang → Badang → Ega → Baidang → Everest East Slope Base Camp → Baidang → Ega → Rega → Tangxiang → Cuoxuerenma → Langmala Pass → Laze → Lunzhulin Village → Qudang Township
Small loop line
Qudang Township → Youpa Village → Xiaowucuo → Xiaowula Pass → Zhuoxiang → Xianong → Tangxiang → Cuoxuerenma → Langmala Pass → Laze → Lunzhulin Village → Qudang Township
Note: The large loop line already includes the small loop line
Reverse the Grand Loop
Qudang Township → Lunzhulin Village → Laze Camp → Langmala Pass → Cuoxuerenma → Tangxiang → Badang → Ega → Baidang → Everest East Slope Base Camp → Baidang → Ega → Rega → Tangxiang → Xianong → Zhuoxiang → Xiaowula Pass → Xiaowucuo → Youpa Village → Qudang Township
Reverse small loop line
Qudang Township → Lunzhulin Village → Laze Camp → Langmala Pass → Cuoxuerenma → Tangxiang → Xianong → Zhuoxiang → Xiaowula Pass → Xiaowucuo → Youpa Village → Qudang Township
Chentang Line
Enter and exit from Chentang along the Gama Zangbo River
The Gama Valley Scenic Area is open from May to October every year (you can enter the mountain only when there is less snow at the pass. After mid-October, the mountain is closed due to heavy snow).
Gama Valley is a natural scenic area in Shigatse, Tibet, known for its untouched landscapes and cultural significance, reflecting Tibetan traditions and offering ecological diversity.
Located in Shigatse Prefecture, Tibet. Accessible by private car or taxi from Shigatse city. Walking is possible along the valley trails. There is no metro or regular bus service directly to the valley.
Open year-round, generally from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best period to visit is from May to October for clear weather and safe hiking conditions.
Entrance fees are usually paid on-site in cash. Online booking is typically not available.
Booking in advance is generally unnecessary. For guided tours or group visits, it is recommended to book 1–2 days ahead.
2–4 hours for main trails and viewpoints; longer if including village visits or additional natural spots.
Guided tours are available through local agencies, usually in Mandarin. Audio guides are generally not provided.
Start at the valley entrance → Follow main hiking trails → Visit rivers, waterfalls, and viewpoints → Explore local villages → Return to entrance. Optional detours for photography or rest.
Night visits and light shows are not available. Special tours may be arranged during local Tibetan festivals.
The valley is generally quiet. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times.
Basic facilities such as rest areas and toilets are available at the entrance. Food, water, and shops are limited inside the valley.
Accessible for children and elderly with caution due to uneven terrain. Limited access for disabled visitors.
Cash is recommended for entrance fees and purchases. Cards or mobile payments may not be widely accepted.
Small Tibetan-style guesthouses and eateries near the valley. Larger restaurants are in Shigatse city.
Vegetarian options may be available at some guesthouses. Vegan and halal options are limited.
Accommodations are mainly in Shigatse city, including guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and homestays near the valley.
Souvenir shops are mostly in Shigatse city. Typical items include Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, jewelry, and yak wool products.
