Overview
This 8-day tour from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp is an adventure of a lifetime. In Lhasa, in addition to exploring the majestic Potala Palace, you’ll delve into the lives of modern Tibetan monks at the largest monasteries in Tibet. On the journey to the Everest Base Camp, you will visit a local Tibetan family in a village near the picturesque Yamdrok Lake, having lunch with them and enjoying a serene lakeside stroll with their flocks of sheep.
In the Himalayan region, we have exclusively selected four viewpoints for you to admire Mt.Everest from different locations. You will spend a night at the Everest Base Camp, witnessing the sunset and sunrise over the Everest, as well as the stars gracefully arching across the night sky.
As the successive award-winning EBC tour operator in Tibet, our attentive and multi-lingual Tibetan guide, deeply passionate about the history and landscapes of his/her homeland, will not only immerse you in the traditional life of Tibet but also take you to see the REAL Tibet through his/her eyes.
To ensure a hassle-free experience, we provide a complimentary Tibet Travel Permit and flexible travel solutions. Our continually updated hotel choices cater to your comfort. Don’t worry about high altitudes – if our little 4-year-old guest and an 84-year-old German granddad can safely navigate our itinerary, so can you.
Highlights
- Admire the beauty of Mount Everest from four different viewing platforms
- Stay overnight at the Everest Base Camp in Tibet and enjoy sunrise and sunset over Mt.Everest.
- Witness the Milky Way Galaxy arching cross the night sky at the top of the world.
- Take a leisurely stroll with flocks of sheep by the lakeside.
- Visit a Tibetan village family along the turquoise Yamdrok Lake.
Itinerary
Welcome to Lhasa.
When you arrive in Lhasa, whether by train or flight, our friendly Tibetan guide will greet you with a Hada (the traditional Tibetan ceremonial scarf) and warm blessings
Then, the guide and the driver will take you to your hotel in downtown Lhasa. You may view the Yarlung Tsangpo River/Brahmaputra River (the Longest and largest river in Tibet) and the Lhasa River.
After settling into your hotel, take some time to rest and adjust to the high altitude.
If you need any help or have any specific needs, feel free to visit our service center at Lhasa Gang-Gyan Hotel.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Today is Tibetan Monastery Day! You’ll have a full day to explore the largest monastery in Tibet, delve into the knowledge of Tibetan Buddhism, and immerse yourself in the daily life of Tibetan monks.
In the morning, you’ll explore the largest monastery in Tibet – Drepung Monastery, which was once the home to over 10,000 monks. As you walk through the Coqen Hall, your guide will provide detailed explanations of the worldview of Tibetan Buddhism and introduce notable figures in Tibetan Buddhist history.
Next, you’ll visit the renowned Loseling College (or an equivalent), offering a glimpse into the study and life of Tibetan monks. Explore their dormitories to gain insights into the Tibetan monks’ daily routines and living conditions.
In the afternoon, you’ll head to Sera Monastery, another of the ‘great three’ Gelug monasteries of Tibet, to witness the famous Tibetan Monks Debate (15:00 – 17:00, from Monday to Saturday). Your guide will intricately explain how Tibetan monks engage in these debates to acquire knowledge and advance in their academic degrees.
After today’s tour, enjoy a welcome dinner with your group members. Your guide will greet you with traditional Tibetan gifts, share helpful travel tips, and help everyone get to know each other.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Today’s Highlight is a visit to UNESCO World Heritage Sites Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, providing a glimpse into the daily beliefs and lives of the people of Lhasa.
After breakfast, your first stop is the Potala Palace, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Lhasa Old Town. Discover the lives and stories of the Dalai Lamas through history within the palace, and the extraordinary treasures it holds. The most valuable collections of Potala Palace are the gilded burial stupas of former Dalai Lamas and the meditation cave of the 33rd great king of Tibet.
After touring the Potala Palace, you will visit Longwangtan Park at the foot of the Potala Palace. Here, you can appreciate the majestic Potala Palace from a different perspective and engage in local Tibetan folk activities.
In the afternoon, you will head to the heart of Tibetan religion – the Jokhang Temple. Inside you can see the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni at the age of twelve. Outside, you can see pilgrims making prostrating in front of Jokhang Temple. Around the temple is Barkhor Street, where you can do kora (a religious circle of a building or mountain) with pilgrims and locals, and explore the old market.
Next, follow your guide to one of the liveliest indoor Tibetan tea houses in Lhasa. Sip traditional Tibetan sweet tea alongside local Tibetans as your guide shares insights into Tibetan social dynamics and daily life.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
In the morning, start the overland journey from Lhasa to Shigatse, which includes visits to Tibet’s most beautiful lake, glacier, and charming Tibetan villages.
First, drive over the Gampala pass (4790 m) to catch a glimpse of Yamdrok-tso (4400m). The Yamdrok Lake is surrounded by many snow-capped mountains and in the distance you can have spectacular views of Holy Mount Nyenchen Khangsar (7191m), the highest mountain near Lhasa. Continue to explore the lakeshore from various viewpoints, and at the end of the lake, you could visit a local family in the village and have lunch with the locals.
Next, you will pass and enjoy the Korola Glacier on the roadside. It is the largest glacier in Tibet. As you see the ice tongue of the glacier climb the entire hillside, you will feel the magical power of nature.
Then, continue your journey to Gyantse. On the way, you will stop at Simila Mountain Pass, where you can hang prayer flags to pray for world peace and the health of your family.
After arriving in Gyantse, you can spend some time taking photos of the ancient city of Gyantse. From Gyantse to Shigatse, you will pass by green (in summer) and golden (in autumn) Tibetan barley fields and countless farms.
Finally, we will arrive in Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. After checking in to the hotel, you can take a good rest and prepare for the next day’s trip to Mount Everest.
Stay overnight in Shigatse.
Take the most use of your time today to admire the stunning Himalayan mountain ranges!
After breakfast, you will head directly to Mount Everest.
First, you will pass Gyatsola Pass (5280m). At Gyatsola Pass viewpoint, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest. Hidden behind the mountain range, the Everest resembles a budding lotus flower, a captivating sight along the roadside.
Shortly after we enter Mount Everest National Nature Reserve, you will enjoy the panoramic view of the Himalayas at Gawula Pass (5198m). At this viewpoint, you will marvel at the majestic lineup of the five highest peaks in the Himalayas, including Everest at the forefront. This is your second glimpse of Everest.
Then we drive along the new zigzag road to Everest Base Camp (5000m). As you get close to the base camp, the majestic Everest gradually unfolds before you, drawing nearer with each winding turn. This marks your third view of Everest.
Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, the colossal white pyramid peak of Mount Everest stands towering before you. As the day transitions to dusk, witness the golden hues of the sun casting a warm glow on Everest’s northern face – your fourth view.
As night falls, the sparkling Milky Way and the snow-white peak of Mount Everest reveal your fifth and final encounter with Everest.
Stay overnight at Everest Base Camp.
Today, you will retrace the journey along the Himalayas and return to Shigatse. Once again savoring the beauty of the Himalayan mountain range.
In the morning, before departing from the base camp, you will visit Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest monastery, where nuns and monks live together at 5154 meters above sea level.
Then, you’ll return to Shigatse via Dinggye, taking an alternative Himalayan route different from the traditional path. Here, you’ll stop at the Dinggye Xilin Viewpoint. You can not only see the majestic eastern slope of the towering Mount Everest again, but also the world’s fourth-highest peak, Mount Lhotse, standing at an elevation of 8,516 meters. Additionally, you can enjoy the vast and delightful wetland landscape at the foot of Mount Everest.
Next, you’ll make a brief stop in the ancient town of Sakya to stroll around Saga Ancient Town.
Finally, you’ll arrive in Shigatse. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you to a local Langma Hall, a local venue for Tibetan song and dance performances. Here, you can witness the traditional Tibetan performances and celebrate the success of your lifetime Mount Everest journey during dinner with your fellow group members.
(Please kindly note: During heavy rain in the summer or snowstorms in the winter, there might be changes to your travel route back to Shigatse from Mount Everest. Instead of passing through Dinggye and Sakya, you may return via Gyawula Pass and Tingri. If this happens, we’ll provide you with a paper notice while you’re in Tibet.)
Stay overnight in Shigatse.
Today’s main attraction is a visit to Shigatse’s largest monastery, the Tashilhunpo Monastery. Later, you’ll return to Lhasa along the Yarlung Tsangpo River.
In the morning, we will visit the home of Panchen Lama – Tashilhunpo Monastery. The grand and magnificent halls of the largest local monastery occupy the entire hillside. This is the spiritual home of the Tibetan people in Shigatse, housing the world’s largest statue of Maitreya Buddha. Inside, you will see monks adorned with yellow hats and red robes, moving about the temple.
Next, we will return to Lhasa along the Yarlung Tsangpo River, the mother river of the Tibetan people.
Finally, you will arrive in Lhasa. Enjoy leisure time wandering freely through Barkhor Street, where you can shop for gifts to bring back home for your family.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Today marks the end of your Tibet tour.
Please make sure to verify your departure flight/train details with our guide in advance. And your guide will take you to the airport or train station.
Thank you for choosing Tibet Vista, and we extend a warm welcome for your return to Tibet in the future.
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- Tibet Travel Permit and all required local travel documents for this tour (excluding expedited processing fees);
- Local tour transfers, 5-29 seats comfortable tourist vehicle according to the group size;
- All entrance ticket fees for all tourist sites listed in the itinerary;
- All meals listed in the itinerary;
- Knowledgeable English-speaking Tibetan local tour guide shared in your group (For prices of tour guides in other languages, please inquire);
- All hotels listed in the itinerary or equivalent three-star hotels. Upgrades are available for an additional fee.
- Free shuttle between Lhasa Railway Station/Lhasa Gonggar Airport and the downtown hotel;
- Service Charge & Government Taxes;
- Arrangements including planning, handling, operational, and communication charges;
- Tourist accident/casualty insurance;
- Additional services include fine Tibetan souvenirs, a tourist map, portable oxygen, medical oxygen in the vehicle, bottled mineral water, and more.
Excludes
- China Visa (If you need visa assistance services, especially for Chinese Group Visa from Nepal to Tibet, feel free to contact us for more details.);
- International flight to and out of China;
- Domestic flight/train to and out of Lhasa (If you need us to book the domestic flight/train tickets, please contact us for the details.);
- Single Room Supplement: Hotels default to double occupancy with twin-bedded rooms. If you prefer a single room or room sharing isn't possible, a single room supplement is necessary. Please consult the travel consultant for specific pricing details.
- Meals not listed in the itinerary;
- Tips for the guide and driver. If you are satisfied with their service, it is suggested to tip $7 (50 RMB) per day per person to be shared between the driver and the guide;
- Other expenses caused by force majeure events (such as natural disasters, traffic control, loss of valuables, visa delays, flight delays or cancellations, etc.);
- Personal expenses, like laundry, phone calls, snacks, soft drinks (please do your best to avoid alcoholic beverages during your Tibet trip), optional tour activities, etc.
FAQs
To ensure a smooth journey, it is recommended to book the tour at least 15-20 days before departure.
Of course, booking 1 or 2 months or even earlier will help us apply for necessary travel documents on your behalf and make advance reservations for accommodations.
Additionally, early booking provides the opportunity to enjoy early bird discounts.
The earlier you book, the better prepared you’ll be, and you won’t be troubled in a rush.
Before you leave, make sure to get your Chinese Visa and Tibet Travel Permit in advance so you can enter the Tibet Autonomous Region.
Some other local travel documents, like the Alien’s travel permit for visiting areas outside Lhasa, can be obtained upon your arrival in Tibet.
We’ll take care of Tibet Travel Permit, as well as other local travel documents as part of our tour package. Simply follow our guidance, and there’s no need to worry about the process.
Once you book your Everest Base Camp tour with us, simply provide scanned copies of your Chinese Visa and a valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity).
If you traveling with a work visa, you will need proof of employment in China, and a study visa requires proof of your study in China.
Generally, it takes 7-14 working days to process the Tibet Travel Permit. Once the permit is successfully issued, we will mail it to your address in China 3-5 days before your Tibet trip, ensuring you can smoothly board the train or flight to Tibet.
The Everest Base Camp in Tibet sits at an altitude of 5200 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest points in this journey.
For first-time visitors to such high-altitude regions, mild symptoms of altitude sickness, such as dizziness and headaches may occur.
However, there is no need to worry. Our specially designed 8-day trip from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp ensures a gradual acclimatization. You’ll spend 2-3 days exploring Lhasa at an altitude of 3650 meters before moving on to higher altitudes like Shigatse (3800 meters) and Everest Base Camp (5200 meters).
According to our experience, most tourists can adapt well to the increase in altitude through such an itinerary, and severe altitude reactions are rare.
If you experience severe symptoms at the base camp, such as intense headaches or difficulty breathing, use oxygen immediately, inform your guide, and seek medical attention promptly.
If necessary, our guide will assist in transferring you to a lower altitude location, such as Zhaxizong Township or Tingri County.
The best time to visit Mount Everest is in Spring (April to early June) and Autumn (September to October) with fine weather, pleasant temperatures, and less rainfall. This means you have more chances to enjoy a clear view of the summit of Mt. Everest during your trip.
Winter is also an excellent season to witness Mount Everest and appreciate the clear starry nights in the Everest region. As the off-season for Tibet tourism, winter provides more affordable tour prices, making it a more cost-effective time for your visit to Mount Everest.
Summer (July to August) is the rainy season in Tibet. While most rainfall occurs at night, it doesn’t impact daytime activities. Just pay attention to the clouds and fog, which may potentially obstruct the full view of Mount Everest.
Because of the high altitude and unpredictable weather, you might not always see the top of Mount Everest in bad weather. But don’t worry. We’ve designed this route that gives you four chances to witness Everest on your way, so you’re likely to catch a good view.
To increase your chances, consider visiting Mount Everest during spring or autumn when the weather is more stable. Feel free to check with our travel experts for the latest weather updates when planning your Everest Base Camp tour in Tibet.
Most importantly, stay positive, relax, and enjoy the journey. Don’t get too hung up on seeing the peak of Mount Everest. Even if you miss it, you’ll still experience amazing natural views and the unique landscapes of the Himalayas.
The overland expedition from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp is more than just about the mountain; it’s an adventure into the wonders of the Tibet Plateau.
The straight-line distance from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp is about 450 kilometers, but because of the winding mountain roads, the actual driving distance is around 700 kilometers. It usually takes about 14 hours to drive to Everest Base Camp.
For a comfortable and safe journey, we usually arrange a 2-day trip from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp with stops at Yamdrok Lake, Gyantse, and Shigatse. This not only helps you get used to the high-altitude environment but also lets you enjoy the scenery along the way, making your travel experience better.
The road from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp boasts one of the finest in the region, mainly following the famous Sino-Nepal Friendships Highway which is fully asphalted.
Even the final stretch of 90 kilometers to Everest Base Camp is now covered with smooth pavement. You don’t need to worry about the bumpy road anymore.
In cities like Lhasa and Shigatse, accommodation options range from luxury 5-star to economic 3-star, allowing you to choose based on your budget and preferences.
However, at Everest Base Camp, the only accommodation option is the tent hotel, which offers quite basic lodging with relatively simple facilities. Most of the Tibetan-style tent hotels at Everest Base Camp feature dormitory-style sleeping arrangements.
During the winter season, the tent hotel will close, and accommodations need to be arranged in Zhaxizong Township or Tingri near the base camp.
