*** Updated 2024 ***
Every year, we carefully update our itineraries to ensure that we are always offering the best and most exciting experience possible. This means taking advantage of newly opened roads, hotels, and restaurants, and constantly seeking out new and unique adventures to make your trip unforgettable. So you can rest assured that when you travel with us, you’ll be embarking on a journey that is fresh, dynamic, and tailored to meet your every need.
Day 1: Lhasa arrival [3650m]
Welcome to Lhasa! Your English-speaking Tibetan guide and driver will warmly welcome you and accompany you to your hotel. Lhasa is one of the highest cities in the world. We understand that the high altitude of Tibet can be challenging for some, so we recommend taking your time to acclimate. Rest assured, we will provide all the necessary support to ensure your well-being. Remember to drink plenty of water and take a good rest to minimise any altitude sickness symptoms. Get ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 2: Lhasa sightseeing
At the assigned time, we’ll begin our tour by visiting the iconic Potala Palace. Built in the 17th century by the fifth Dalai Lama, this magnificent palace offers breathtaking views of the entire city and is home to the private quarters of the Dalai Lama, numerous grand state rooms, and chapels. Afterward, we’ll visit the revered Jokhang Temple, founded in the 7th century by Songtsen Gampo, which is considered the most sacred monastery in Tibet. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this magical land: take a stroll through the vibrant Barkhor old quarter and follow pilgrims from all over the Tibetan plateau on a kora around the Jokhang Temple. Kora is a term used in Tibetan Buddhism that refers to the practice of circumambulating around a sacred site, such as a temple, stupa or mountain, as a way of showing devotion and accumulating merit. The practice involves walking clockwise around the site, often while reciting mantras, prayers or other sacred texts. It is also believed to bring good fortune and blessings to those who undertake it. Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 3: Lhasa sightseeing
Today we’ll visit Drepung and Sera monasteries. After breakfast, we’ll venture to the outskirts of Lhasa to witness the grandeur of the Drepung Monastery, the largest in Tibet, which once housed 7000 monks. Along with the monasteries of Ganden and Sera, Drepung is one of the three great centers of Tibetan Buddhist education in the Gelugpa school, also known as the Yellow Hat Sect. Founded in the 15th century, it was the former residence of the Dalai Lama before the construction of the majestic Potala Palace. In the afternoon, you’ll be mesmerised by the famous debates of the Sera Monastery, where the monks engage with vibrant energy in intellectual discourse and challenge each other’s understanding of Buddhist philosophy. It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience not to be missed! Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 4: Lhasa – Gyantse [270Km, 3980m]
Let the adventure begin! We’ll start ascending the Kampa-la Pass [4797m], where you’ll witness the stunning Mt. Noijin Kangsang [7206m] and the breathtaking turquoise waters of holy lake Yamdrok-Tso. An unreal sight that will leave you spellbound all along the way to the Karo-la Pass [5050m], where you’ll marvel at the glacier that majestically hugs the roadside. The final stop will be the charming Gyantse town, home to the Kumbum Stupa inside Pelkor Chode Monastery, renowned for its exquisite Tibetan art paintings. From the top of the Kumbum, you’ll also be treated to a magnificent view of the majestic Gyantse Dzong fortress overlooking the valley. Overnight in Gyantse.
Day 5: Gyantse – Sakya [250Km, 4320m]
Our first destination today is the historic Shalu Monastery. Built in the 11th century, the monastery was partially destroyed by an earthquake in the 14th century and then rebuilt, resulting in a blend of architectural styles. Shalu Monastery boasts an impressive collection of Buddhist art and sculptures that are well-preserved. It was a renowned center of learning for various tantric practices and techniques, and some of these skills were described in Alexandra David-Néel’s book, “Magic and Mystery in Tibet,” which impressed the world. Back to the Friendship Highway, we’ll take you to the stunning Sakya Monastery, the principal seat of the Sakyapa Sect founded in 1073 and one of the four major Schools of Tibetan Buddhism. Its powerful abbots governed Tibet during the whole of the 13th century until they were eclipsed by the rise of the Gelugpa Sect. With its unique Mongolian architecture, this monastery stands out from any other you’ve seen before. The lucky ones may get to witness the sunset from atop the monastery walls, accompanied by the hypnotising sound of the monks playing their dungcheng, a traditional long Tibetan horn. Overnight in Sakya.
Day 6: Sakya – Rongbuk (Mt. Everest) [230Km, 5000m]
Another thrilling day! We’ll reach one of the major highlights of our trip, near Mt. Everest North Base Camp [5200m]. The journey to Rongbuk involves crossing the high passes of Gyatso-la [5220m] and Pang-la [5150m]. Gyatso-la gives the opportunity to view Mt. Everest and the Himalayas for the first time; and from the top of the Pang-la you’ll enjoy amazing views of several peaks like Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Mount Everest. The Rongbuk Monastery is located at the foot of the Everest, and the highest monastery in the world. You’ll spend the night at the tourist camp site located a few Kilometres from the real EBC used by climbing expeditions, where you’ll have direct views of Mt. Everest (Qomolangma). Since 2018 tourists are not allowed to visit the EBC due to environmental protection and now there is a eco-bus shuttle to access Rongbuk. Overnight at simple guesthouse tent (dorm bed without bathroom). Overnight in Rongbuk.
Day 7: Rongbuk – Shigatse [334Km, 3840m]
Today begins the end of your Tibetan journey through the most sacred Buddhist monasteries and greatest mountains on earth. If you would like to start early your day, enjoy the sunrise with Everest peak views on the horizon [8848m]. After breakfast we visit Rongbuk Monastery where we will take a last look at Mt. Everest North Face and then drive back to Shigatse to enjoy a nice shower, sleep in a comfortable bed. And if you have some free time, don’t forget to do the Kora around the monastery to soak up the stunning panorama of the valley and the impressive Dzong (fortress). Overnight in Shigatse.
Day 8: Shigatse – Lhasa [272Km, 3650m]
Our last day of our Tibetan traverse goes along the Yarlung Tsampo (Brahmaputra) River. This is the most direct route to Lhasa and part of the Friendship Highway. As early as possible, we’ll be visiting the Tashilhunpo Monastery, built in the 15th century by the first Dalai Lama and currently the seat of the Panchen Lama. On the way, we’ll make a short stop to learn how traditional Tibetan incense is made. Free time for the rest of the day in Lhasa. Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 9: Tibet departure
Enjoy your last hours in Tibet exploring Lhasa on your own until your guide and driver meet you at the hotel to transfer you to the airport. End of our services.
Consider extending your trip walking the wonderful ancient route between two of our most important Monasteries: The Ganden to Samye Trek. It’s also possible to spend one-two more days visiting holy Namtso lake in North Lhasa (250Km, 3-4 hours drive, one way). Or even take a relaxing day in Lhasa on your own!
Please, contact us for further information about any available extension of your trip.
You can easily include a visit to the holy Namtso lake located North of Lhasa. You can visit it on the way back departing from Shigatse to Namtso lake instead of returning to Lhasa directly. You will need an extra night at Damxung which offers budget accommodation or the shores of Namtso lake once the tourist campsite opens again. It can be visited as a day trip from Lhasa (500Km drive, around 6 hours drive in total). During the winter, the 5000m pass that gives access to the lake is usually blocked by the snow.
Day 8: Shigatse – Damxung [326Km, 4290m]
As early as possible, we’ll be visiting the Tashilhunpo Monastery, built in the 15th century by the first Dalai Lama and currently the seat of the Panchen Lama. Afterwards, we’ll be heading North-East towards the non-touristy nomadic Yangpachen valley, where you can experience spectacular views of the Nyenchen Thangla Range. Unfortunately, the tourist campsite near Namtso lake shore has been dismantled, but don’t worry! We have an alternative plan – we’ll be staying in the nearby town of Damxung after making a stop in Yangpachen, which is famous for its local hot spring resort. So after long days of driving, it’s the perfect time to kick back and relax. Overnight in Damxung.
Day 9: Damxung – Namtso lake – Lhasa [300Km, 3650m]
The crossing of the Nyenchen Thangla Range and the Largen-la Pass [5190m] let us see in the horizon our sacred Namtso lake, the most beautiful lake in Tibet. You will enter the Changtang plateau, where the nomadic way of life still thrives. At the lake shore, you’ll be awe-struck by the stunning scenery of the Nyenchen Tanglha snow peak [7162m] towering over the crystal blue waters of Namtso Lake. After a visit to Tashi Dor Monastery, we’ll drive back to Lhasa. Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 10: Tibet departure
Enjoy your last hours in Tibet exploring Lhasa by your own until your guide and driver meet you at the hotel to transfer you to the airport. End of our services.
Price varies according to the number of people in your group, category of hotel, transportation, dates and other services you request. Please contact us with these important details first. If you prefer joining a group, please check our group tours upcoming departures.
*** Discounts are available throughout the year; please contact us for the full rates ***
Mt. Everest North Face Base Camp Tour (9 days)
Tour price for 4-12 people, 1290USD per person.
– Single room occupancy available: 250USD (hotels only).
Mt. Everest North Face Base Camp Tour + Namtso lake (10 days)
Tour price for 4-12 people, 1470USD per person.
– Single room occupancy available: 280USD (hotels only).
Rates shown above include all permits, english speaking tibetan guide, comfortable accomodation, transportation and entrace fees ONLY.
All our fixed departure tours for this itinerary start in Lhasa. All participants are responsible for their own travel arrangements to Lhasa. We take care of all VISA process if coming from Nepal. The size of the group is between 4-12 people and the kind of transportation varies according to the size of it: minivan or minibus.
Selected hotel in Lhasa is in the Barkhor area; just a few walking steps to Barkhor Square and Jokhang Temple. ALWAYS in double room sharing basis with bathroom and breakfast. Single room request available. Accomodation upgrade to St. Regis 5* Hotel available. Please, contact us for further details.
Please, check our upcoming departures.
Consulte salidas especiales con guía en español con nuestra agencia hermana Mundo Tíbet.
Consider other extensions of your journey in Lhasa and its surroundings.
All borders are open to international tourists. Please contact us by email to check the latest group availability and any further information during 2024. ➜ Read more