16 Days Everest Base Camp, Mount Kailash & Guge Kingdom: Mysterious Tibet Group Tour

• Attractions Included: Lhasa Traditional Handicraft Art Center, Sera Monastery
• Highlighted Experience: Learn traditional Tibetan crafts with local artisans, experience the famous monks’ debate at Sera Monastery.

In the morning, visit the Lhasa Traditional Handicraft Art Center to experience Tibetan craftsmanship. Learn how local artisans make traditional Tibetan incense, practice Tibetan calligraphy, and discover the art of woodblock printing. With guidance from local craftsmen, you can create your own Tibetan writing or blessing as a meaningful travel souvenir.

Local Expert Tip: Tibetan handicrafts are closely connected with daily life and Buddhist traditions. This experience offers a deeper understanding beyond sightseeing.

After lunch, drive about 7 km (around 20 minutes) to Sera Monastery, one of Tibet’s three great Gelug monasteries. The highlight is the famous monks’ debate, usually held from 15:00 to 17:00 (except Sundays). Watch monks discuss Buddhist philosophy through lively debates, symbolic gestures, and traditional practices. You can also explore the prayer halls, murals, and peaceful monastery courtyards.

Local Expert Tip: The debate is not a performance. It is a traditional way for monks to study, discuss, and develop Buddhist knowledge. Your guide will explain this for you.

After the tour, return to your hotel in Lhasa and enjoy a relaxing evening.

• Attractions Included: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street
• Special Experience Arranged by us: Traditional Tibetan or Nepalese dinner with local flavors

First Stop: Potala Palace | The Symbol of Tibet

This morning, visit Potala Palace, the most iconic landmark of Tibet and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas, the palace stands at about 3,700m above sea level and offers stunning views over Lhasa. Walk through its grand halls, sacred chapels, and ancient rooms. Admire colorful murals, precious decorations, and Tibetan Buddhist artworks preserved inside the palace. Your guide will share stories about Tibet’s history, including King Songtsen Gampo and the origins of this legendary palace.

Second Stop: Jokhang Temple | The Spiritual Heart of Tibet

Continue to Jokhang Temple, the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism with more than 1,300 years of history. Observe pilgrims performing prayers and walking the sacred kora around the temple. Inside, discover beautiful murals, traditional architecture, and the highly revered 12-year-old Sakyamuni Buddha statue, one of Tibet’s most sacred treasures. From the upper floor, enjoy a beautiful view of Barkhor Street and the daily life of old Lhasa.

Third Stop: Barkhor Street | Experience Local Lhasa Life

After visiting Jokhang Temple, take a walk along Barkhor Street, the traditional pilgrimage route surrounding the temple. Feel the atmosphere of old Lhasa, where incense fills the air and pilgrims continue their daily kora. You can enjoy yak butter tea, try Tibetan traditional clothing for photos, or explore local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Special Dinner Arranged by us: In the evening, enjoy a special group dinner featuring authentic Tibetan or Nepalese cuisine. This is a great opportunity to taste local flavors and share your Tibet journey with fellow travelers.

After dinner, return to your hotel in Lhasa.

Local Expert Tips for Today

Potala Palace

• Potala Palace requires a real-name reservation with a valid passport or ID.
• Visiting time is limited and arranged by the palace administration.
• During peak seasons, groups may be divided into smaller groups.
• Photography is not allowed inside the palace.

Jokhang Temple

• Visiting time is usually around 1 hour.
• Real-name reservation is required. Your guide will assist with the booking.
• Jokhang Temple is an active religious site. Access may change during important ceremonies.

Local Expert Tip:
The best way to experience Lhasa is to slow down. Take time to observe pilgrims, listen to local stories, and feel the spiritual atmosphere instead of simply checking off attractions.

• Distance & Driving Time: Approx. 370 km, 7 hours’ drive
• Altitude Change: Lhasa (3,650m) → Yamdrok Lake (4,440m) → Karola Glacier (5,012m) → Shigatse (3,845m)
• Special Arrangement by us: Scenic lunch experience at Yamdrok Lake with beautiful photo opportunities

Today, you’ll embark on a scenic drive from Lhasa to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. The journey covers around 370 kilometers and takes 7 hours’ drive, with stops to admire two of Tibet’s most spectacular natural wonders - Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier.

In the morning, after about 2-3 hours of driving (110 km), get your camera ready as you approach Kampala Pass (4,797 m). Here, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Yamdrok Lake, a turquoise ribbon shimmering among snow-capped mountains. Known as one of Tibet’s four sacred lakes (along with Lhamo Latso, Manasarovar, and Namtso), Yamdrok is believed to hold spiritual power - helping Tibetans locate the reincarnated soul of the Dalai Lama. You’ll also see locals offering photo opportunities with Tibetan mastiffs, yaks, or goats dressed in traditional ornaments.

Specially Arranged Meal at Yamdrok Lake by us: Take a break at Yamdrok Lake and enjoy a special hot pot meal arranged by us. Taste fresh local dishes while enjoying stunning lake views. Relax, take beautiful photos, and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of this sacred Tibetan lake.

In the afternoon, continue driving for about 1.5 hours (87 km) to reach the stunning Karola Glacier (5,012 m) - one of Tibet’s three major continental glaciers and a filming site of the movie Red Valley (Hong He Gu). Backed by Naiqin Kangsang Peak (7,191 m), the glacier gleams like a frozen waterfall cascading right beside the highway. You can enjoy the view from your vehicle or take a short, easy walk to the glacier’s base. Across the road, admire the majestic snow-capped Mount Kalurong - another highlight of this alpine wonderland.

Tips for visiting Karola Glacier:

• The alitude here is about 5,012 meters, so move slowly and avoid overexertion.
• The public toilets are very basic -be prepared.
• Some locals may charge a small fee for taking photos with them or their animals -always confirm before photographing.

Afterward, drive from Gyantse county, along the wide Nianchu River Valley, passing through scenic Tibetan villages, vast barley fields, and golden rapeseed flower fields (in summer). Upon arrival in Shigatse (altitude: 3845 meters), check into your hotel and have a good rest.

Warm Reminder:

For foreign and Taiwan travelers, registration at the Shigatse Entry & Exit Administration Office is required. Your guide will assist with the process and may adjust the schedule accordingly - please follow their instructions and cooperate as needed.

• Distance & Driving Time: Approx. 340 km | Around 7 hours’ drive
• Altitude Change: Shigatse (3,845m) → Gyawu La Pass (5,210m) → Rongbuk Monastery (5,154m) → Everest Base Camp (5,200m)
• Photo Experience: Panoramic Himalayan views from Gyawu La Pass, Rongbuk Monastery, and Everest Base Camp

Today, leave Shigatse and travel toward Mount Everest (Qomolangma), the highest mountain on Earth. As you drive deeper into the Himalayas, the scenery changes from wide valleys to snow-covered peaks and dramatic mountain landscapes.

Gyawu La Pass | The Everest Viewing Platform

Follow the famous 108 switchbacks along the Everest Road to reach Gyawu La Pass (5,210m). On clear days, enjoy a panoramic view of five of the world’s highest peaks above 8,000 meters: Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Shishapangma. This is one of the best viewpoints for Himalayan photography.

Rongbuk Monastery | The World’s Highest Monastery

Continue to Rongbuk Monastery (5,154m), located near the Rongbuk Glacier at the foot of Mount Everest. As the world’s highest monastery, Rongbuk offers a unique combination of Tibetan Buddhism and Himalayan scenery. Explore the peaceful monastery surroundings and enjoy one of the best views of Everest’s north face.

Local Expert Tip: Take time to slow down at Rongbuk Monastery. The combination of the monastery, prayer flags, and Everest views creates one of the most iconic scenes in Tibet.

Everest Base Camp | Closest View of Mount Everest

Finally, arrive at Everest Base Camp (5,200m), the closest point most travelers can reach to the world’s highest peak. Stand before the majestic north face of Everest and enjoy views of glaciers, snow peaks, and the vast Himalayan landscape. This is the highlight of your Everest journey and a memorable moment on the Tibetan Plateau.

Local Expert Tips for Visiting Everest Base Camp: From Everest Town (about 50 km from EBC), travelers need to take the eco-friendly shuttle bus to reach Base Camp. Your main vehicle and driver will stay in Everest Town. Please bring your personal belongings with you. Accommodation at Everest Base Camp is provided in tented camps. Facilities have improved, but conditions remain basic due to the high altitude, with shared bathrooms and limited supplies. During winter or extreme weather conditions, the group may stay at a guesthouse in Everest Town (Tashizom Town) instead. Temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer. Please prepare warm clothing or rent a down jacket at Base Camp if needed.

• Distance & Driving Time: Approx. 320 km | Around 7 hours’ drive
• Altitude Change: Everest Base Camp (5,200m) → Pelkhu-tso Lake (4,590m) → Saga/Zhongba (approx. 4,500m)

Wake up at Everest Base Camp and enjoy your final morning with views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayas. If weather permits, you may catch the beautiful Golden Summit View, when the first sunlight turns the snow peaks golden. Spring and autumn usually offer better visibility.

After breakfast, leave Everest Base Camp and continue west toward Saga or Zhongba, entering the remote landscapes of western Tibet.

Mount Shishapangma | The 8,000m Himalayan Peak

Along the way, enjoy views of Mount Shishapangma (8,027m), the only 8,000-meter peak located entirely within Tibet. The mountain rises above glaciers, valleys, and grasslands, creating a spectacular Himalayan landscape.

Pelkhu-tso Lake | A Hidden Gem of Western Tibet

Continue across the wide plateau of western Tibet and arrive at Pelkhu-tso Lake (4,590m). Located at the foot of Mount Shishapangma, this turquoise alpine lake is one of the most beautiful hidden landscapes in the region. Take time to enjoy the peaceful scenery and capture photos of the lake, mountains, and vast Tibetan plateau.

Continue driving to Saga or Zhongba for tonight’s accommodation.

Local Expert Tips: Due to the remote location and limited hotel options in western Tibet, accommodation may be arranged in either Saga or Zhongba depending on availability and road conditions. This area has fewer facilities than major Tibetan cities. Our local team carefully selects the best available accommodation to ensure a comfortable stay.

• Distance & Driving Time: Approx. 500 km | Around 8 hours’ drive
• Altitude Change: Saga/Zhongba (approx. 4,500m) → Manasarovar Lake (4,588m) → Darchen (4,670m)

Today, continue your journey along the legendary G219 Highway toward the sacred land of western Tibet. The route passes through vast plateaus, mountain valleys, and remote Tibetan settlements. Along the way, enjoy the untouched beauty of the Ngari region.

Payang | A Remote Plateau Town

Drive through Payang Town in Zhongba County, a small settlement located at around 4,600m. Surrounded by wide grasslands and highland scenery, Payang offers a glimpse into life on the remote Tibetan plateau.

Lake Manasarovar | The Sacred Turquoise Lake

Continue to Lake Manasarovar (4,588m), one of Tibet’s most sacred lakes. The clear blue water reflects the surrounding snow mountains, creating a peaceful and unforgettable Himalayan landscape. Located near Mount Kailash, the lake holds deep spiritual significance for Tibetan Buddhists, Bon followers, Hindus, and Jains. Take time to enjoy the scenery and capture photos of this sacred lake.

Mount Kailash | The Sacred Mountain of Tibet

Continue toward Mount Kailash (6,638m), the spiritual heart of western Tibet. Known for its unique pyramid-like shape and snow-covered summit, Mount Kailash is one of the world’s most revered mountains. For many pilgrims, completing the sacred Kailash Kora is a meaningful spiritual journey.

Arrive in Darchen (4,670m), the starting point of the Mount Kailash Kora.

Check in to your hotel and rest well before tomorrow’s trekking experience.

Local Expert Tips: Today is a long driving day on the remote western Tibet plateau. Please stay hydrated, keep a relaxed pace, and follow your guide’s advice for altitude adaptation. Darchen is the gateway to Mount Kailash Kora. Accommodation facilities are simple due to its remote location, but our local team selects the best available options for travelers.

Starting Point Darchen Town (4,675m) Ending Point Dira-puk Monastery (5,100m) Total Distance Approx. 20 km (6 km sightseeing bus + 14 km trekking) Trekking Duration Approx. 7–8 hours Difficulty Level Challenging due to high altitude

Today begins your Mount Kailash Kora, one of the most sacred trekking journeys in Tibet. Rising to 6,638m, Mount Kailash is revered by Tibetan Buddhism, Hinduism, Bon, and Jainism. For centuries, pilgrims have traveled here to complete the sacred walk around the mountain.

Darchen - Tarboche | Starting Point of the Kora

In the morning, take a short sightseeing bus ride (about 6 km) from Darchen to Tarboche, the official starting point of the Kailash Kora. Tarboche is a sacred pilgrimage site, known for its towering prayer flag pole and colorful prayer flags.

Trek to Dira-puk Monastery | Facing the North Face of Kailash

Begin trekking along the Lha Chu River Valley toward Dira-puk Monastery. The trail passes through highland valleys, snow-covered peaks, and fields of mani stones carved with Buddhist prayers. Along the way, you may see pilgrims completing their kora through walking or prostration. After around 14 km of trekking, arrive at Dira-puk Monastery (5,100m).

Located directly opposite the north face of Mount Kailash, the monastery offers one of the most spectacular views of this sacred mountain.

Overnight at a local guesthouse near Dira-puk Monastery.

Local Expert Tips: The Kailash Kora is a high-altitude trek. Walk slowly, keep a steady pace, and follow your guide’s advice throughout the journey. Horse/yak riding and luggage transportation by yak or porter are available along the route (additional cost applies). Accommodation during the kora is basic. Guesthouses near Dira-puk and Zhultripuk offer shared rooms, shared bathrooms, and simple facilities.

Starting Point Dira-puk Monastery / Gangja (5,100m) Highest Point Drolma La Pass (5,650m) Ending Point Zutul-Puk Monastery (4,880m) Trekking Distance Approx. 20 km Trekking Duration Approx. 10–11 hours Difficulty Level Challenging due to high altitude and steep sections

Today is the most challenging and meaningful day of the Mount Kailash Kora. Start early and climb toward Drolma La Pass (5,650m), the highest point of the entire trek. The ascent is steep and demanding. At the top, thousands of colorful prayer flags create a powerful spiritual atmosphere. Pilgrims often stop here to pray, rest, and leave mani stones as a sign of devotion.

Drolma La Pass | The Highest Point of the Kora

Crossing Drolma La Pass is considered the most sacred moment of the Kailash Kora. From the pass, enjoy dramatic views of the surrounding mountains and high-altitude landscape. After the pass, begin a steep descent toward the valley below.

Gauri Kund | Sacred Alpine Lake

Continue through the rugged mountain landscape and pass by Gauri Kund, a beautiful glacial lake surrounded by snow peaks. The turquoise water and peaceful surroundings create one of the most memorable scenes along the Kora route.

Zutul-Puk Monastery | The Final Stop of Today’s Trek

After a rest, continue trekking along the river valley for around four hours to reach Zutul-Puk Monastery (4,880m). Known as the “Miracle Cave of Milarepa”, this monastery preserves ancient Buddhist stories, murals, and religious traditions. Stay overnight at the guesthouse near Zutul-Puk Monastery and rest well before completing the final section of the Kora tomorrow.

Local Expert Tips: Today is the toughest trekking day. Start early, walk slowly, and keep a steady rhythm to adapt to the high altitude. The section after Drolma La Pass includes steep downhill trails. Trekking poles and comfortable hiking shoes are highly recommended. Accommodation near Zutul-Puk is basic, with shared facilities due to the remote location.

Starting Point Zutul-Puk Monastery (4,880m) Trekking End Zongdui (4,680m) Final Destination Darchen Town (4,675m) Total Distance Approx. 10.6 km Distance Breakdown Trekking: Approx. 6.6 km
Shuttle Bus: Approx. 4 km Trekking Duration Approx. 2–3 hours Difficulty Level Easy

Today marks the final section of your Mount Kailash Kora. After breakfast, leave Zutul-Puk Monastery and begin a gentle descent toward the end of the pilgrimage route. As the altitude gradually decreases, the landscape becomes greener and the air feels lighter. Along the trail, you may see local wildlife, colorful mani stones, and pilgrims completing their sacred journey around Mount Kailash.

After around 6.6 km of trekking, arrive at Zongdui, where the Kora officially comes to an end.

Take the eco-sightseeing bus back to Darchen Town. Congratulations on completing one of the world’s most meaningful high-altitude pilgrimage journeys.

Darchen - Zanda | Entering Western Tibet’s Ancient Land

After a short rest in Darchen, continue your journey to Zanda County. The drive takes about 230 km (around 4.5 hours). Along the way, enjoy the dramatic landscapes of western Tibet, including deep canyons, eroded cliffs, and wide river valleys. Arrive in Zanda (4,500m), a remote region known for its unique landscape and ancient Tibetan civilization.

Zanda is home to the legendary Guge Kingdom ruins and Tholing Monastery, setting the stage for tomorrow’s exploration of Tibet’s forgotten history.

Overnight in Zanda.

Local Expert Tips: Today’s trek is much easier than the previous day. However, your body may still need time to recover after two days of high-altitude trekking. After completing the Kailash Kora, we recommend resting well, drinking enough water, and maintaining a relaxed pace during the drive to Zanda. Zanda is a remote area with limited accommodation options. Our local team selects the best available hotels or guesthouses based on local conditions.

• Distance & Driving Time: Approx. 280 km | Around 5 hours’ drive
• Altitude Change: Zanda (4,500m) → Darchen (4,675m)

Today, explore the hidden treasures of Zanda County, known for ancient Tibetan civilization and spectacular landscapes. Visit the mysterious Guge Kingdom Ruins, the dramatic Zanda Earth Forest, and the historic Tholing Monastery before returning to Darchen.

First Stop: Guge Kingdom Ruins | The Lost Civilization of Western Tibet

Begin with the Guge Kingdom Ruins, one of Tibet’s most fascinating archaeological sites. Flourishing from the 10th to 17th centuries, Guge was once a powerful kingdom and an important center for the development of Buddhism in western Tibet. Explore the Red Palace and White Palace, where ancient murals, sculptures, and carvings reveal stories of religion, royal life, and Tibetan art. From the top of the ruins, enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding valley and imagine the former glory of this lost kingdom.

Second Stop: Zanda Earth Forest | A Natural Wonder of Western Tibet

Continue about 20 km to the Zanda Earth Forest, a unique landscape created by millions of years of wind and water erosion. The towering clay formations stretch across the valley, creating a surreal scene of cliffs, ridges, and natural sculptures. This is one of the best places in western Tibet for landscape photography.

Third Stop: Tholing Monastery | Ancient Buddhist Heritage

The final visit is Tholing Monastery, founded in the 10th century during the Guge Kingdom period. Once an important Buddhist center, the monastery preserves ancient murals, sculptures, and religious artworks. Explore the Main Hall, Assembly Hall, and Scripture Hall to learn about Tibetan Buddhist culture and the artistic achievements of the Guge era.

After sightseeing, drive back to Darchen for overnight accommodation.

Local Expert Tips: Zanda offers some of the most unique landscapes in western Tibet. The best photo opportunities are usually in the morning and late afternoon when the light creates stronger contrasts on the earth formations. The Guge ruins involve some walking and stairs. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially after completing the Kailash Kora. Zanda and Darchen are remote plateau areas with limited facilities. Our local team arranges the best available accommodation based on local conditions.

• Distance & Driving Time: Approx. 380–500 km | Around 7–8 hours’ drive
• Altitude Change: Darchen (4,675m) → Saga/Zhongba (approx. 4,500m)

After breakfast, leave Darchen and begin your return journey along the scenic G219 National Highway toward Saga or Zhongba. The route crosses the vast landscapes of western Tibet, passing through high-altitude grasslands, mountain valleys, and remote Tibetan settlements. Along the way, enjoy views of the Gangdise Mountains, wide open plains, and the peaceful plateau scenery that defines the Ngari region.

The G219 Highway is one of Tibet’s most spectacular routes, connecting Lhasa, Shigatse, Ngari, and the Nepal border region. The journey offers a final chance to experience the remote beauty of the Tibetan plateau.

Arrive in Saga or Zhongba and check in to your hotel.

Local Expert Tips: Due to the remote location and limited accommodation options for international travelers, tonight’s stay may be arranged in either Saga or Zhongba depending on availability and road conditions. Today is a long driving day. Keep hydrated, rest well, and follow your guide’s advice for high-altitude travel.

For the final part of your Tibet journey, the itinerary will follow two different plans depending on whether any travelers choose the F2 Route (13-day tour exiting Tibet via Gyirong Port).

Plan A is arranged when no travelers need to exit via Gyirong Border. The group continues east through western Tibet and visits Sakya Monastery before returning toward Lhasa.

Plan B is arranged when some travelers join the F2 Route. The group travels together to Gyirong Valley, where travelers exiting to Nepal continue to the border, while other travelers stay overnight in Gyirong Town.

Plan A: Saga/Zhongba - Sangsang Grassland - Sakya

• Distance & Driving Time: Approx. 450–580 km | Around 7–10 hours’ drive
• Altitude Change: Saga/Zhongba (approx. 4,500m) → Sakya (approx. 4,300m)After breakfast, continue east along the scenic G219 National Highway. The route passes through the beautiful Sangsang Grassland, where vastmeadows, snow-capped mountains, and traditional Tibetan pastoral landscapes create a peaceful plateau scene. Along the way, enjoy views of grazing yaks, nomadic areas, and the changing scenery as the altitude gradually decreases.

Sakya Monastery | The Second Dunhuang of Tibet

Arrive in Sakya and visit Sakya South Monastery, one of Tibet’s most important Buddhist monasteries.Known for its fortress-like architecture, red walls, and precious Buddhist artworks, Sakya preserves ancient murals, scriptures, and cultural treasures from the Yuan Dynasty period.

Overnight in Sakya.

Plan B: Saga/Zhongba - Gyirong Valley - Gyirong Border

• Distance & Driving Time: Approx. 350–400 km | Around 7–8 hours’ drive
• Altitude Change: Saga/Zhongba (approx. 4,500m) → Gyirong Town (approx. 2,700m)

After breakfast, depart from Saga and travel toward the China–Nepal border. The route gradually descends from the Tibetan Plateau into the beautiful Gyirong Valley, known as the “back garden” of western Tibet. Enjoy views of green valleys, forests, waterfalls, mountain villages, and landscapes influenced by Nepalese culture.

Visit the Gyirong Gorge and suspension bridge before continuing to Gyirong Town.

Travelers who need to exit China and enter Nepal will proceed to the Gyirong Border in the afternoon for border formalities and end their Tibet journey.

Other travelers will stay overnight in Gyirong Town.

Local Expert Tips: The final route arrangement depends on the number of travelers joining the F2 Gyirong Border Exit Route. Your travel consultant will confirm the final itinerary before departure. The Gyirong route involves a significant altitude drop from the Tibetan Plateau to the valley area. Many travelers find the lower altitude more comfortable after several days at high elevation. Road conditions and weather may affect driving time in western Tibet. Our local team will adjust the schedule when necessary.

• Distance & Driving Time: Approx. 150 km | Around 3 hours’ drive
• Altitude Change: Sakya (approx. 4,300m) → Shigatse (3,845m)

Today, explore the historic Sakya Monastery, one of Tibet’s most important Buddhist sites, before continuing to Shigatse.

Sakya Monastery | The Heart of the Sakya School

Founded in 1073, Sakya Monastery is the birthplace and spiritual center of the Sakya school of Tibetan Buddhism, one of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism. Known for its fortress-like architecture, the monastery features massive walls, peaceful courtyards, and beautifully decorated halls. Inside, discover ancient Buddhist scriptures, thangkas, statues, and religious artifacts. One of the highlights is Burde Gyaimalung, known as one of the largest books in the world. During your visit, you may observe monks’ daily activities, prayer rituals, and the traditional atmosphere of Tibetan monastic life.

After the visit, drive from Sakya to Shigatse and check in to your hotel.

Overnight in Shigatse.

Plan B: If Travelers Join the F2 Route (13-Day Tour Exiting Tibet via Gyirong Port)

After breakfast, leave Gyirong Town and continue your journey through Tibet.

After a long drive, arrive in Sakya and visit the historic Sakya Monastery. Founded in 1073, Sakya Monastery is the spiritual center of the Sakya school of Tibetan Buddhism. Its fortress-style architecture, ancient scriptures, and religious artworks make it one of the most remarkable monasteries in Tibet. Explore the monastery halls, admire traditional Buddhist art, and learn about the history and culture of Tibetan Buddhism.

After sightseeing, stay overnight in Sakya.

Local Expert Tips: Sakya Monastery is an active religious site. Please dress respectfully and follow your guide’s instructions during the visit. The monastery involves some walking and stairs. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially after the Kailash Kora. The final arrangement depends on whether travelers join the F2 Gyirong Border Exit Route. Your travel consultant will confirm the detailed schedule before departure.

• Distance & Driving Time: Approx. 400 km | Around 6–7 hours’ drive
• Altitude Change: Sakya (approx. 4,300m) → Shigatse (3,845m) → Lhasa (3,650m)

After breakfast, leave Sakya and continue your journey back toward Lhasa.

On the way, stop in Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, to visit the famous Tashilhunpo Monastery.

Tashilhunpo Monastery | The Spiritual Heart of Shigatse

Founded in 1447, Tashilhunpo Monastery is one of the most important Gelug monasteries in Tibet and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lamas. Explore its grand prayer halls, golden rooftops, and peaceful courtyards. The monastery preserves important Buddhist artworks, statues, and religious treasures.

Highlights include the impressive Maitreya Buddha Chapel, the sacred stupas of previous Panchen Lamas, and beautiful views over Shigatse city.

After the visit, continue driving from Shigatse to Lhasa along the scenic Friendship Highway, following the Yarlung Tsangpo River.

The drive takes about 270 km (4.5–5 hours). Upon arrival in Lhasa, check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Overnight in Lhasa.

Local Expert Tips: Tashilhunpo Monastery is an active religious site. Please dress respectfully and follow your guide’s instructions during the visit. After several days in western Tibet, today’s route gradually returns to a lower altitude. Take time to rest and recover in Lhasa. The driving time may vary depending on road conditions and traffic along the Friendship Highway.

• Distance & Driving Time: Approx. 60 km | Around 1–1.5 hours’ drive

After breakfast, it is time to say goodbye to Lhasa and end your Tibet journey. Your guide and driver will transfer you to Lhasa Gonggar International Airport or Lhasa Railway Station for your next destination or journey home.

Local Expert Tips: The drive from downtown Lhasa to the airport usually takes around 1–1.5 hours. We recommend booking flights departing after 10:00 AM. Please share your flight or train details with us in advance so our team can arrange a smooth transfer. For fixed-date group tours, complimentary shared transfers are provided according to the official arrival and departure schedule. Private transfers can also be arranged upon request (additional cost applies).

Trip Extension: