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8 Days Tibet Discovery Tour from Lhasa to Mount Everest Base Camp

  • TD-TTB-008
  • 8 Days
  • Tibet Private Tours

Expedition Overview

No.1 Best Selling Tibet Tour from Lhasa to Mount Everest
Pair the unforgettable “Roof of the World” with the most classic Tibet route! This 8-day Tibet Tour from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp explores sacred palaces, monasteries, and holy mountains—offering what may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
In Lhasa, explore the iconic Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street, then witness monk debates at Sera Monastery and have local Tibetan family visit (special experience). En route to Gyantse, admire turquoise Yamdrok Lake and Kharola Glacier. The ultimate highlight is Mount Everest, where an overnight stay at Base Camp.
With our local office in Lhasa, we guarantee the most competitive local prices for your journey!

Itinerary

Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa! Our team will meet you at the airport for the 100km (1.5-hour) drive to your downtown hotel. Rest there to acclimatize to the 3,650m altitude before beginning your Lhasa tour tomorrow.

Get to Lhasa (Air or Rail): Lhasa Gonggar Airport serves major hubs like Chengdu, Chongqing, Xian, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Kunming, Xining, Shangri-La and even Kathmandu. Alternatively, the iconic Qinghai-Tibet Railway connects Lhasa to cities like Lanzhou (24.5 hours), Chongqing (35.5 hours), Chengdu (36.5 hours), Xian (31 hours), Beijing (40.5 hours), Shanghai (47 hours), Guangzhou (52.5 hours), Shigatse (2.5 hours), Nyingzhi (4 hours).

i Note

1. Stay hydrated, keep warm, and avoid showers for the first 48 hours. Moving slowly and getting a good night’s sleep.

2. Your health is our top priority, so please make sure to follow any altitude-related guidance your doctor has provided for you.

3. If you feel under the weather or need help, let your guide or the hotel staff know. They are well-trained in altitude care and are always happy to support you.

First, explore Potala Palace, the world’s highest palace at 3,700m. After climbing 365 steps to the Red Palace, you’ll find incredible murals, jeweled treasures, and pilgrims who have traveled for months to pray here. Follow the path of pilgrims and learn how King Songtsen Gampo first built this landmark in the 7th century for his Tang Dynasty princess.

i Note
Our daily order may change depending on your Potala Palace reservation. Per local regulations, visits are guided, capped at one hour, and photography is restricted inside.

Second, visit the 1,300-year-old Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s spiritual center and a UNESCO site. Known as the “House of Buddha,” it was built for King Songtsen Gampo’s brides. It houses the world’s holiest treasure: a life-size 12-year-old Sakyamuni statue. Witnessing the endless devotion of pilgrims praying before the temple is a timeless experience.

Third, stroll through Barkhor Street, an ancient pilgrim circuit turned vibrant market. Experience the traditional “kora” (pilgrim circuit) alongside locals while browsing local Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian handicrafts.

Morning: Cultural Experience at the Handicraft Center

Start your day at the Lhasa Traditional Handicraft Art Center. Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture through hands-on workshops. You will learn the delicate art of crafting traditional Tibetan incense using aromatic herbs and spices. Next, try your hand at Tibetan calligraphy and block printing. With guidance from a local teacher, you will write your name in Tibetan script, then engrave and print it yourself. Take home your handmade incense and unique print as a personal souvenir of your time in Lhasa.

Afternoon: The Debating Monks at Sera Monastery

After a 40-minute drive, arrive at Sera Monastery. Wander through its stunning compound, where white stone paths and walkways create a serene, almost Mediterranean atmosphere. The highlight of your visit is witnessing the monks’ debate (typically held between 15:00 and 17:00, except Sundays). Observe this fascinating tradition where standing monks pose questions to those seated. Watch for the dramatic palm-slapping and foot-stomping – gestures that signify the activation of wisdom rather than aggression.

Late Afternoon: Authentic Local Tibetan Family Visit

Conclude your cultural exploration with a visit to a local Tibetan family. Gain an intimate look at a traditional home and learn about their authentic way of life. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with locals and sample traditional Tibetan cuisine, including zaba (roasted barley flour), butter tea, and other local snacks.

After the visit, you will be escorted back to your hotel in Lhasa.

Today’s journey involves an 8 to 9-hour drive (340km) from Lhasa to Shigatse. Along the way, you will experience two of Tibet’s most spectacular natural landscapes: Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier.

After a 3-4 hour drive (200km), prepare for the 4,797m Kampala Pass. You’ll see the sacred Yamdrok Lake and Mt. Nyenchen Khangsar. As a holy site used to find the Dalai Lama’s soul, it’s truly special. You can also pay 5-10 yuan (Optional) to photograph local yaks or mastiffs, which helps support the nearby families’ income. Have your camera ready! Have specially arranged lunch around Yamdrok Lake.

Next, a 1.5-hour drive (70km) brings you to Karola Glacier (5,012m), famous from the film Red Valley. Backed by Naiqin Kangsang Peak (7,191m), this “frozen waterfall” is just 300 meters from the highway. You can view it from the car or walk to its base for a closer look. Across the road, enjoy stunning views of snow-capped Mt. Kalurong.

Karola Glacier Visiting Notes:

  1. Move slowly at the 5,012m glacier to prevent altitude sickness.
  2. The public toilet at the glacier is very basic.
  3. Ask locals before filming or photographing them to avoid fees or misunderstandings regarding payment.

After that, drive 3.5 hours (170km) to Shigatse. Rest well before tomorrow’s unforgettable journey to Everest Base Camp.

After breakfast, drive 6.5 hours (330km) to Mount Everest. Visit Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest, before staying overnight at Everest Base Camp.

Leaving Shigatse, a 4.5-hour drive (240km) brings you to Gyawu La Pass (5,200m) for your first glimpse of Mt. Everest. You’ll marvel at the famous zigzag road winding toward the horizon. Along the way, you may spot dedicated hikers and cyclists journeying to Everest Base Camp, driven by personal goals or sacred beliefs.

Proceed 122km (3.5 hours) to Rongbuk Monastery, the highest elevated monastery globally at 5,154m. Beyond providing an iconic perspective of Mt. Everest, the site features historic chortens and 400-year-old cliffside meditation caves. It remains a vital destination for spiritual travelers and photographers alike. Witnessing devout pilgrims amidst the colorful prayer flags and rugged valley walls offers a profound introduction to the Everest region.

i Note

1. The designated viewing area for travelers is now centered at Rongbuk Monastery. You won’t miss the view of Mt. Everest from here.

2. Lodging and food are basic today. At this high altitude, please stay hydrated and relax to help manage any symptoms.

Start early to catch the Mount Everest sunrise before returning to Gyatso La Pass (122km, 3.5 hours) for a quick photo stop. Afterward, continue the drive back to Shigatse (240km, 4.5 hours) to explore the historic Tashilhunpo Monastery.

Discover Tashilhunpo Monastery, a massive spiritual center founded by the 1st Dalai Lama in 1447. Home to the Panchen Lamas, it features historic tombs, sacred remains, and exquisite paintings. Immerse yourself in the local culture by joining a kora or listening to Buddhist chants. Don’t forget the hike to the top for an incredible vista overlooking the entire monastery and Shigatse.

Drive back to your hotel in Shigatse.

After breakfast, your team will meet you at the hotel for the drive back to Lhasa. We’ll stop at a scenic viewing platform so you can soak in the last of the stunning landscapes. After a few hours on the road, we’ll get you settled into your Lhasa hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Your 8-day Tibet tour concludes today. After some free time to explore at your own pace, your guide will provide a transfer to the airport or train station for your onward travel.

Thanks for traveling with Tibet Daily! We’ve loved showing you China and hope to see you again for your next Asian getaway!

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Accommodation & Hotel Condition for Your Tibet Tour

Have a good sleep everyday is very important during your China tour. In a private tour, you can decide on your own which hotel class you want – luxury 5 starcomfortable 4-star or economic 3-star.
All the hotels in each destination we selected are at good location, close to commercial street or tourist attractions. And, all the hotels we use have a business relationship for many years and they have windows, air-conditioners, hot water, showers, wifi… (except for basic accommodation condition when travel to Mount Everest) to ensure you luxury and comfortable sleep experience. The staff can speak English and they will provide you the high quality service. If you have any requirements, you can ask them to help.

What’s Included & What’s Not Included

•  The price is based on a group tour for 2 people sharing one standard double-bed room in comfort hotels.
•  Price varies depending on travel date, group size, hotel class, program in your itinerary and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate.

What’s Included

Transportation
•  Regular licensed tourist vehicles (7–26 seats).
•  If there are fewer than 4 travelers for Lhasa city sightseeing, your guide will accompany you by taxi, and the taxi fare will be covered by the travel agency.
•  This is a join-in group tour, so changes of vehicles or guides may occur. Thank you for your understanding.
•  Due to Tibet’s limited tourism infrastructure, vehicles are generally older than those in mainland cities.
•  Most vehicles do not use air conditioning, as high altitude and temperature differences can cause mechanical issues and increase the risk of catching a cold.
•  There are driving speed limits in certain regions of Tibet (e.g., specific sections must not be completed in less than two hours). Your driver may stop at random points for rest or waiting—please be patient and enjoy the scenery.
•  When joining a group, pickups may involve waiting while collecting guests from multiple hotels. Please be punctual; if you voluntarily give up any day’s travel, the vehicle fee cannot be refunded.
•  Luggage policy: To ensure safety and comfort at high altitude, each traveler may bring one 26-inch suitcase and one small backpack. The guide will assist in storing excess luggage at your Lhasa hotel if necessary.

Accommodation
•  Standard twin rooms in basic hotels (double occupancy). Single-bed rooms (king-size) are not guaranteed; no extra bed or breakfast is provided for travelers not occupying a bed.
•  In case of odd-numbered travelers, the agency may arrange triple rooms, room-sharing, or charge a single supplement.
Fixed hotels are pre-arranged for group tours; specific hotel requests cannot be accepted.

Meals
•  Daily hotel breakfasts included.
•  Onecomplimentary local specialty meals (non-refundable if not used):
Lhasa Specialty Meal (Tibetan or Nepalese cuisine)
Other meals are self-arranged. If you are unaccustomed to Tibetan food, you may bring your own side dishes.
•  Complimentary meals may be arranged as lunch or dinner.

Guide Service
•  Chinese-speaking, English-speaking, or bilingual (Chinese-English) guides.
Guides are arranged according to the group composition. If both Chinese and English speakers are in one group, a bilingual guide will be provided.
•  In shared group tours, guide or vehicle changes may occur – your understanding is appreciated.

What’s Not Included

Single Room Supplement
•  Tour prices are based on twin-room occupancy (except for dormitory-style rooms).
•  If you require a single room, an additional single supplement fee will apply.

Hotel Changes or Hotel Cancellation Loss
•  Since hotels are prepaid in full, no refunds will be issued for any unused nights or itinerary changes after check-in.
•  Any damage to hotel property or extra charges incurred will be the traveler’s own responsibility.

Personal Expenses
•  All personal expenses are not included, such as:
Laundry, telephone, fax, or pay TV
Drinks, snacks, tobacco, or alcohol
Any other items or services of a personal nature

Unforeseen Circumstances
•  In case of force majeure or events beyond the control of the travel agency (such as natural disasters, war, strikes, epidemics, flight delays or cancellations, or insufficient group size),the agency reserves the right to cancel or adjust the itinerary.
•  Any extra costs incurred as a result will be borne by the traveler.

Transportation to and from Tibet
•  The tour price does not include flights or train tickets to and from Tibet. If you would like the travel agency to assist with booking, additional costs will apply.

Cancellation Policy

In the event that you need to cancel your trip, please ensure that you submit a written cancellation request. The calculation of cancellation fees will begin from the date we receive your written request.
The cancellation fees will be calculated as follows:

• If the cancellation is made between 45 and 30 days before the scheduled departure date, a fee of 10% of the full payment per person will apply.

• If the cancellation is made between 29 and 15 days before the scheduled departure date, a fee of 30% of the full payment per person will apply.

• If the cancellation is made between 14 and 7 days before the scheduled departure date, a fee of 50% of the full payment per person will apply.

• If the cancellation is made between 6 and 0 days before the scheduled departure date, a fee of 100% of the full payment per person will apply.

Important Trip Notes

All foreign travelers are required to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit to visit Tibet. The permit can only be applied for through a registered travel agency in Tibet (we are local based Tibet travel agency with office setting in Lhasa) and is required to purchase flight or train tickets to Tibet. The permit is necessary to enter Tibet and visit certain areas within the region, including Lhasa and Mount Everest Base Camp. Travelers should plan ahead and allow sufficient time for the permit application process, as it can take one to two weeks to obtain the necessary permits.
All foreign travelers are advised to make their bookings at least one week in advance and send the necessary documents to us for obtaining the permits. However, if you plan to visit Mount Kailash, it is recommended to book at least two weeks in advance, as it may take longer to obtain the necessary permits.

Typically, small group tours in Tibet will have 1-16 travelers, and you will have the opportunity to meet and travel with tourists from different parts of the world. This can be a great chance to make new friends and connect with people from different cultures and backgrounds.

Yes, if you are traveling with a group of friends or with your family, you can customize your own group tour. Please contact your professional travel consultant to discuss and arrange a customized group tour that meets your needs and preferences.

 
•  “B” stands for breakfast. You will have it at your hotel in the morning.
 
•  “L” stands for lunch. The restaurants we will arrange for you are all designated tourist restaurants approved by local tourist administration bureau. All are in good sanitary conditions. Lunches are usually included if you have a full day tour in one destination. Your guide will assist you with ordering the dishes. If you will travel from one city to another, lunches are excluded and you can ask the guide for some suggestions about where and what to eat.
 
•  “D” means dinner. All dinners are excluded in the itinerary. You have the chance to taste some authentic Chinese food and local snacks.
 
•  If you have special dietary requirements (vegetarian, halal, kosher, Indian, or gluten-free), please let us know before your booking. We will try our best to take care of you.

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Expert-Guided Cultural Deep-Dive

Not just tours, but true immersion. Unlike generic sightseeing, our routes are crafted by local scholars and Himalayan experts. You aren’t just visiting landscapes; you are entering stories, gaining insights into Tibetan history, Buddhism, and plateau life that remain invisible to the standard traveler.

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Slow travel in high-altitude comfort. We prioritize both your safety and your experience. Our itineraries are masterfully paced for high-altitude acclimatization, blending iconic ‘big wow’ landmarks with secret, hidden gems, allowing you to breathe in the plateau’s serenity without ever feeling rushed.