Arrival in Lhasa

Lhasa - Upon arrival at the airport or train station, a friendly Tibetan guide and driver will warmly welcome you with a Kada, the traditional Tibetan ceremonial white scarf, as a gesture of hospitality. If arriving by plane, the drive to Lhasa city will take approximately 40-50 minutes, while those arriving by train will enjoy a 20-minute drive to the city, where you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Along the journey, take in the breathtaking views of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, Lhasa River, and the charming Tibetan villages and highland barley farms.

Once everyone has arrived in Lhasa, the guide will introduce you to the rest of the group and discuss the tour itinerary in Tibet. You’ll also be shown some local, Chinese, and continental dining options for dinner. On your first day, it’s important to relax, take it easy, and stay hydrated with warm or room temperature water to help acclimate to the high altitude.

Exploring Lhasa’s Outskirts

Drepung Monastery (Zhebang Si) - In the morning, the tour will visit Drepung Monastery, known as the “Monastery of Rice Heap” in Tibetan. This expansive complex features white buildings that cascade down the mountainside. As the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery, Drepung once housed over 10,000 monks. It holds historical significance as the site of enthronement ceremonies for the First to Fifth Dalai Lamas, who considered it their “mother monastery,” making it the highest-ranking monastery in the Gelug School.

Sera Monastery - In the afternoon, the tour continues to Sera Monastery, renowned for its unique Buddhist debating sessions. These lively and intense dialogues among monks are a traditional practice in Tibetan Buddhism, focusing on discussing Buddhist doctrines through questions and answers. Witnessing this dynamic and intellectual religious practice offers insight into the profound scholarly atmosphere and distinctive monastic culture of Tibetan Buddhism.

Discovering Lhasa City

Jokhang Temple - At noon, the guide will take you to a delightful restaurant for lunch and a rest. In the afternoon, the tour will visit Jokhang Temple, located in the heart of Lhasa’s old town. As the most sacred temple in Tibet, Jokhang Temple is always bustling with devoted local pilgrims.

Barkhor Street - Following the temple visit, enjoy a stroll around Barkhor Street, a vibrant central market and one of the most devotional circuits in Lhasa. This ancient circular street surrounds Jokhang Temple, and locals take great pride in it. As a symbol of Lhasa, Barkhor Street is a must-see destination for visitors.

Journey from Lhasa to Gyangtse and Shigatse

Yamdrok Yumtso Lake - Departing from Lhasa with your luggage, embark on a two-day journey to explore the ancient city and highland barley storehouses of Tibet. The route passes through stunning landscapes approximately 50 km outside Lhasa, ascending to the summit of the Khampala Pass for a magnificent panoramic view of Yamdrok Lake.

Yamdrok Lake, located in Nangkar Tse County in the Shannan region, is less than 100 kilometers from Lhasa. It is one of Tibet’s three holy lakes, alongside Namtso and Manasarovar. Nestled at the foot of the southern mountains, its beauty is unmatched in southern Tibet. Revered as a sacred lake by Tibetans, Yamdrok Lake offers clear, ethereal, and dreamlike scenery that is a must-see for every visitor.

Karo La Glacier - After visiting Yamdrok Lake, the tour proceeds to the Karola Glacier. This magnificent glacier descends from the majestic Mount Nojin Kangtsang, providing a breathtaking sight of ice and snow against the stark landscape. You’ll have the opportunity to see the glacier up close, take photos, and experience the cool, crisp air of one of Tibet’s most accessible and impressive glaciers. It’s a perfect way to appreciate the powerful natural beauty of the region.

Continuing along the lakeshore, the journey passes traditional villages before stopping for a one-hour lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, the drive resumes toward the ancient city, crossing several high mountain passes, glaciers, ancient monasteries, and vast fields of canola flowers and highland barley. This route is ideal for travelers interested in experiencing diverse Tibetan culture and capturing breathtaking photographs of Tibet’s natural and cultural wonders.

From Shigatse to Everest Base Camp

Mt. Everest Base Camp - In the morning, depart from Shigatse to Lhatse, a small town 150 km from Shigatse, where you may have lunch at a local restaurant. After a short rest, continue to Tingri, passing through the first high mountain pass - Tsola Pass (4,600m), followed by the second - Gyatsola Pass (5,248m), within the Mt. Everest National Nature Reserve, adorned with countless prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Ascend further to Gawula Pass (5,198m) for a panoramic view of the Himalayas, then drive along the zigzag road to the Everest Base Camp.

From here, Mt. Everest appears as a majestic pyramid surrounded by sky-touching mountains. On sunny days, a thick cloud resembling a white flag floats above the peak, known as ‘The Highest Flag Cloud in the World.’ With the growing popularity of travel to Mt. Everest, it has become a highlight for tourists in its own right.

Return from EBC to Shigatse

Mt. Everest Base Camp - Rise early, weather permitting, to witness the magnificent sunrise over Mount Everest from Everest Base Camp. The golden glow illuminating the world’s highest peak is an unforgettable experience.

After enjoying the views and taking photos, begin the scenic drive back to Shigatse. Along the way, enjoy ever-changing landscapes of vast plateaus, rugged mountains, and traditional Tibetan villages. Brief stops at viewpoints allow you to fully appreciate the beauty of the Himalayan region.

Upon arrival in Shigatse, relax and unwind at the hotel or take a casual stroll in the local area. Today offers a peaceful yet inspiring conclusion to your high-altitude adventure before returning to the comforts of Tibet’s second-largest city.

Journey from Shigatse to Lhasa

Tashilunpo Monastery - Depart from your hotel in Lhasa around 08:00. The road conditions are good, but due to speed limits, the journey will take about 6 hours.

Tashilunpo Monastery is one of the Six Big Monasteries of the Gelugpa (or Yellow Hat Sect) in Tibet. Also known as the Heap of Glory, the monastery is located at the foot of Drolmari (Tara’s Mountain) in Shigatse. Founded by the First Dalai Lama in 1447, the monastery’s structure was expanded by the Fourth and successive Panchen Lamas. Covering nearly 300,000 square meters, the main structures include the Maitreya Chapel, Panchen Lama’s Palace, and Kelsang Temple. Tashilhunpo has been the seat of the Panchen Lama since the Fourth Panchen Lama took charge, and it currently houses nearly 800 lamas.

Departure from Lhasa

Lhasa - The 8-day Lhasa Gyantse Shigatse Mt. Everest Group Tour concludes today. After breakfast, enjoy a free morning. Staff will collect you from your hotel for transfer to Lhasa Airport/Railway.

End of tour!

• Travel accident insurance and High altitude sickness insurance
• On-board medical oxygen supply for travel in high-altitude areas
• Entrance fees
• Government fees

• Meals

Embark on an 8-day journey through the heart of Tibet, beginning with a warm reception in Lhasa. This tour features visits to renowned landmarks such as Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and the beautiful Drepung Monastery. Marvel at the stunning vistas of Yamdrok Lake and the impressive Karola Glacier. The adventure proceeds to Everest Base Camp, where you can experience unforgettable sunrises over the world’s tallest mountain. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Tibetan Buddhism while savoring local cuisine and enjoying the scenic landscapes throughout your trip.

• Explore key Tibetan sites including Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple
• Immerse in local Tibetan culture during the tour
• Relish the breathtaking views of Yamdrok Lake and the Himalayas
• Stay overnight at Everest Base Camp or Rongbuk Monastery guesthouse
• Book at least 10 working days in advance so tour operator may attain your Tibet Permit. Tibet Permit will be delivered to customers’ delivery address / hotel address in one city of China. Please note your tour operator will contact you after the booking is confirmed.
• Price is based on double occupancy. Single room supplement is subject to availability and additional charge
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.