15 Days Tibet Grand Tour: Everest Base Camp, Mount Kailash Kora & Guge Kingdom

• Altitude: Lhasa: 3,650m

After breakfast, start your exploration of Lhasa’s most important cultural and spiritual landmarks.

First, visit the iconic Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas and one of Tibet’s most recognized landmarks. Climb the palace steps and explore its chapels, prayer halls, murals, and Buddhist treasures while learning about Tibet’s history and religion.

After your visit, walk to nearby Zongjiao Lukang Park, one of the best places to photograph the Potala Palace from across the water. You can also see local residents walking, exercising, and enjoying everyday life beneath the palace.

Continue to the Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Lhasa. See pilgrims praying and making their way around the temple before exploring nearby Barkhor Street, Lhasa’s traditional pilgrimage circuit and old market area.

In the evening, enjoy a featured Tibetan-style dinner arranged by us. Taste local dishes and relax after your first full day in Lhasa.

Expert Tips: Tickets & Photography: 1. Potala Palace: Entry is time-controlled and advance reservation is required. your guide will arrange the ticket according to the available entry time, so the sightseeing order may be adjusted. Photography is not allowed inside the palace. 2. Jokhang Temple: Tickets and visiting arrangements can also be subject to reservation requirements and daily visitor controls. we will arrange the visit based on the confirmed entry time. 3. Best Photo Spots: Take classic Potala Palace photos from Zongjiao Lukang Park. Around Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street, always ask permission before taking close-up photos of local people or pilgrims.

• Altitude: Lhasa: 3,650m

Today is about experiencing Tibetan culture beyond sightseeing.

Morning: Tibetan Handicraft Experience

Visit the Lhasa Traditional Handicraft Art Center and experience Tibetan culture through hands-on activities. Learn how traditional Tibetan incense is made from local herbs and spices. Try Tibetan calligraphy and block printing, and create your own Tibetan-script souvenir to take home.

Afternoon: Sera Monastery & Monks’ Debate

Continue to Sera Monastery, one of Lhasa’s most important monasteries. Explore its courtyards and prayer halls before watching the famous monks’ debate, usually held in the afternoon except Sundays. Your guide will explain the distinctive hand clapping, gestures, and debating traditions.

Late Afternoon: Visit a Local Tibetan Family

End the day with a visit to a local Tibetan family arranged by us. Step inside a local home, learn about daily family life, and chat with your hosts. Taste traditional foods such as tsampa, butter tea, and local snacks.

Today’s handicraft activities and family visit are arranged to give you more direct interaction with Tibetan culture and local life. Tip: The monks’ debate schedule may change due to monastery activities. Please ask permission before photographing monks or local families.

• Driving & Distance: Approx. 340 km | 8–9 hours including sightseeing stops
• Altitude: Lhasa 3,650m → Kampala Pass 4,797m → Karola Glacier about 5,000m → Shigatse 3,845m
• Special Experience Arranged by us: Yamdrok Lake viewpoints & lunch at Odyssey Yamdrok Restaurant

Today, travel from Lhasa to Shigatse through some of Tibet’s most impressive plateau landscapes.

First, cross Kampala Pass (4,797m) for a panoramic view of Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s sacred lakes. From the high viewpoint, admire its turquoise waters winding between the mountains. Then descend toward the lakeshore for a closer experience. Enjoy time to walk, take photos, and appreciate the peaceful scenery around Yamdrok Lake.

Special Lunch by Yamdrok Lake

Enjoy your meal surrounded by plateau scenery, with extra time for lakeside photos and views before continuing the journey.

Next, drive to Karola Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers along this classic Tibet route. The massive glacier descends from the surrounding snow-covered mountains and can be viewed remarkably close to the highway.

Continue through the Tibetan plateau to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. Check in to your hotel and rest before tomorrow’s journey toward Everest.

Expert Tips: 1. Yamdrok Lake: The mountain pass offers the classic panoramic view, while the lakeshore gives you a closer perspective. Your private vehicle allows time for both experiences. 2. Karola Glacier: The altitude is around 5,000m. Walk slowly and avoid strenuous activity. Facilities here are basic. 3. Photography: If you want to photograph local yaks, Tibetan mastiffs, or people, confirm the price and ask permission before taking photos.

• Driving & Distance: Approx. 330 km | 6.5–7.5 hours, excluding sightseeing and scenic shuttle
• Altitude Change: Shigatse 3,845m → Gyawu La Pass about 5,200m → Everest Base Camp 5,200m
• Photo Stop: Gyawu La Pass & Rongbuk Monastery

After breakfast, leave Shigatse and travel toward the Everest region. The scenery gradually changes from farmland and Tibetan villages to vast high-altitude valleys and snow-covered mountains.

Stop at Gyawu La Pass (about 5,200m). On a clear day, this is one of the best panoramic viewpoints of the Himalayas, with Mount Everest and several 8,000m peaks visible in the distance. The famous winding road below also makes a great photo.

Continue into the Everest Scenic Area. Change to the official eco-friendly shuttle bus for the final section toward Rongbuk Monastery and Everest Base Camp.

Visit Rongbuk Monastery, dramatically located beneath Mount Everest. Walk around the monastery, prayer flags, and chortens while enjoying one of the classic views of Everest’s north face.

Stay overnight in the Everest Base Camp area. This gives you more time to experience Everest in the evening and another opportunity to see the mountain the following morning.

Expert Tips: Everest & Overnight Stay: Everest Views: Mountain weather changes quickly. A clear view cannot be guaranteed, but staying overnight gives you both evening and morning opportunities. Accommodation: EBC accommodation is much more basic than hotels in Lhasa or Shigatse. Depending on the season and local arrangements, you may stay at the EBC tent camp or a guesthouse in the Everest area. Heating, hot water, bathrooms, and dining facilities can be limited or shared. Altitude: You will stay at around 5,200m tonight. Walk slowly, keep warm, drink water regularly, and avoid strenuous activity. Packing: Take a small overnight bag with warm clothing, personal essentials, water, and your camera. Your guide will advise what to bring for the EBC stay.

• Driving & Distance: Approx. 320 km | 7 hours
• Altitude Change: EBC 5,200m → Pelkhu-tso 4,590m → Saga 4,600m

Enjoy a quiet morning at Everest Base Camp, with more time to admire Mount Everest. On a clear morning (if weather is fine), watch the first sunlight illuminate the summit before saying goodbye to the Everest region.

Leave EBC and drive west toward Saga. Today is one of the most scenic road journeys in western Tibet, with vast grasslands, rugged valleys, glaciers, and the snow-covered Himalayas along the way.

Enjoy distant views of Mount Shishapangma (8,027m), the only 8,000-meter peak located entirely within Tibet. Continue across the open plateau to Pelkhu-tso (4,590m), a beautiful turquoise lake surrounded by barren mountains and distant snow peaks.

After taking time for photos by the lake, continue through the remote plateau landscapes to Saga, where you will stay overnight.

Expert Tips: Everest Morning View: Sunrise depends on the weather, but staying overnight at EBC gives you another opportunity to see Everest clearly. Photography: Keep your camera ready during the drive. Shishapangma, Pelkhu-tso, glaciers, grasslands, and Himalayan peaks provide excellent photo opportunities. Road Conditions: Some sections of the route can be rough. Your private driver will adjust the pace according to road and weather conditions.

• Driving & Distance: Approx. 500 km | 8–9 hours including sightseeing stops
• Altitude Change: Saga 4,600m → Lake Manasarovar 4,590m → Lhanag-tso 4,575m → Darchen 4,574m

After breakfast, leave Saga and drive west through the vast landscapes of western Tibet. Pass Drongpa County, near the upper reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra River), and continue across open grasslands, valleys, and high mountain passes.

The highlight of today is Lake Manasarovar, one of Tibet’s most sacred lakes. Stop by the lakeshore to admire its clear blue water, distant snow mountains, and views toward the Mount Kailash region. Take some time to walk and photograph the peaceful plateau scenery.

Continue to nearby Lhanag-tso (Rakshastal). In contrast to Manasarovar, this saltwater lake has deep blue water and a much more rugged, barren landscape. The two neighboring lakes create one of the most striking landscape contrasts in western Tibet.

Finally, drive to Darchen, the small town at the foot of Mount Kailash. Check in and rest tonight before beginning your Mount Kailash journey.

Expert Tips: 1. Long Driving Day: Today covers around 500 km, so expect a full day on the road. Your private driver will arrange suitable rest and photo stops. 2. Photography: Keep your camera ready around Lake Manasarovar and Lhanag-tso. Clear weather can offer beautiful combinations of blue lakes, open plateau, and distant snow peaks. 3. Prepare for Kailash: Darchen is the starting point for the Mount Kailash kora. Rest well, stay hydrated, and prepare your daypack and warm clothing for the next day.

• Walking Distance & Time: Approx. 13 km | 6–7 hours
• Altitude Change: Darchen 4,574m → Dira-puk about 4,920m
• Trekking Route: Darchen → Tarboche → Chorten Kangnyi → Lha-chu Valley → Dira-puk

Today begins your 3-day Mount Kailash kora, a 52-km pilgrimage circuit around the sacred mountain.

Take the eco-bus from Darchen to Sarshung Valley, where you will begin today’s 13-km trek. From there, hike across the open Barkha Plain toward Tarboche, an important pilgrimage site known for its large prayer-flag pole and the annual Saga Dawa Festival. Nearby, pass through Chorten Kangnyi, a traditional gateway on the kora route.

Continue into the Lha-chu Valley, following the pilgrim trail deeper into the mountains. Along the way, enjoy changing views of Mount Kailash, rugged cliffs, river valleys, and pilgrims making the sacred circuit.

By late afternoon, arrive at Dira-puk, one of the most memorable locations on the trek. From here, enjoy a dramatic close-up view of the north face of Mount Kailash.

Trekking Tips: Pace Yourself: Today is a long high-altitude trek. Walk slowly, take regular breaks, and drink water frequently. Pack Light: Carry only your daypack with water, snacks, warm layers, sun protection, and personal essentials. Porter & Horse Service: Local porters and horse services can be arranged at additional cost. Availability may vary, so tell your travel expert in advance if you may need assistance. Accommodation: Dira-puk has only basic high-altitude guesthouses. Expect simple rooms, limited heating and hot water, and basic toilet facilities.

• Walking Distance & Time: Approx. 20 km | 7–8 hours
• Altitude Change: Dira-puk 4,920m → Dolma-la Pass 5,630m → Dzultripuk 4,810m
• Trekking Route: Dira-puk → Jarok Donhang → Dolma-la Pass → Lham-chu Valley → Dzultripuk

Start early from Dira-puk for the most challenging day of the Mount Kailash kora. The trail climbs steadily through a rugged high-altitude landscape toward Dolma-la Pass, the highest point of the entire trek.

Reach Dolma-la Pass (5,630m), surrounded by prayer flags and dramatic mountain scenery. Take a short rest before beginning the steep descent on the other side of the pass.

Continue downhill into the valley. The descent can be rocky and demanding, so walk slowly and watch your footing. After the steepest section, the trail becomes easier as you follow the valley toward Dzultripuk.

Arrive at Dzultripuk in the afternoon and stay overnight in a basic guesthouse.

Trekking Tips: Most Challenging Day: Today has the highest altitude and steepest ascent and descent of the kora. Start early and keep a steady pace. Dolma-la Pass: At around 5,630m, avoid staying too long at the pass. Rest briefly, take photos, and descend when ready. Trekking Poles: Strongly recommended, especially for the steep and rocky descent. Porter & Horse Service: Arrange assistance in advance if needed. Horse riding may not be possible on every steep section, so be prepared to walk parts of the route.

• Walking Distance & Time: Approx. 14 km | 3–4 hours
• Trekking Route: Dzultripuk → River Valley → Barkha Plain → Darchen
• Driving Distance & Time: Darchen → Zanda | Approx. 230 km | 4.5–5 hours

Start from Dzultripuk and follow the river valley toward Darchen. Today’s trail is easier, with mostly gentle downhill and relatively flat sections.

Walk through the colorful Gold and Red Cliffs, passing the area associated with Milarepa’s Cave. Continue onto the open Barkha Plain, where the landscape becomes wider and the walking easier.

After around 3–4 hours, arrive back in Darchen and complete your 3-day Mount Kailash kora.

Meet your private driver and continue by road to Zanda, about 230 km away. The drive takes around 4.5–5 hours, passing through the remote landscapes of western Tibet.

Arrive in Zanda and check in to your hotel. Rest tonight before exploring the Guge Kingdom and Zanda area the next day.

Expert Tips: Final Trekking Day: The route is easier than Day 2, but you are still at high altitude. Keep a comfortable pace and save some energy for the afternoon drive.

• Driving & Distance: Approx. 340 km | 5–6 hours, excluding sightseeing stops
• Altitude: Zanda about 3,700m → Darchen 4,574m

Start the day at the Guge Kingdom Ruins, one of the most important archaeological sites in western Tibet. Explore the remains of palaces, temples, caves, and ancient murals built into the hillside. Climb higher for panoramic views across the ruins and the surrounding desert landscape.

Continue through the spectacular Zanda Earth Forest, shaped by erosion over millions of years. The unusual cliffs, valleys, and layered formations create one of the most distinctive landscapes in Ngari.

Visit Tholing Monastery, founded during the Guge period and once an important Buddhist center in western Tibet. Explore its historic halls, statues, and surviving murals while learning about the region’s Buddhist heritage.

After sightseeing, drive back to Darchen. Check in and rest after the journey.

Expert Tips: Guge Kingdom: The ruins involve steps and uneven paths. Wear comfortable shoes and take your time while exploring. Photography: Guge Kingdom and the Earth Forest are excellent for wide landscape photography. Keep your camera ready during the drive as well. Altitude Change: You will return from lower-altitude Zanda to Darchen at about 4,574m, so continue to rest well and stay hydrated.

• Driving & Distance: Approx. 500 km | 8–9 hours
• Altitude: Darchen 4,574m → Saga 4,600m

After breakfast, leave Darchen and begin the long drive back to Saga. Today is mainly a scenic road journey across the vast landscapes of western Tibet.

Along the way, travel through high mountain passes, open grasslands, river valleys, and remote Tibetan villages, with the Himalayas appearing in the distance. You may also see yaks, sheep, and nomadic camps scattered across the plateau.

Your private driver will make suitable rest and photo stops along the way when road and weather conditions allow.

Arrive in Saga in the evening and check in to your hotel for a well-earned rest.

Expert Tips: Long Driving Day: Expect around 8–9 hours on the road. Keep water, snacks, warm layers, and your camera within easy reach. Photography: The open plateau, Himalayan peaks, villages, and grazing animals offer good photo opportunities throughout the journey. Private Tour Advantage: Your private vehicle allows more flexibility for rest stops and short scenic stops during this long transfer day.

• Driving & Distance: Approx. 500 km | 8 hours
• Altitude Change: Saga 4,600m → Shigatse 3,845m

After breakfast, leave Saga and drive east toward Shigatse. Today is another long but scenic journey across the Tibetan Plateau.

Along the way, enjoy views of wide valleys, grasslands, mountain passes, rivers, and traditional Tibetan villages. As you travel east, the altitude gradually drops and the landscape becomes greener toward Shigatse.

Your private driver will arrange suitable rest and photo stops along the way when conditions allow.

Arrive in Shigatse in the late afternoon or evening. Check in to your hotel and rest after the long journey.

Expert Tips: Long Driving Day: Expect around 8 hours on the road. Keep water, snacks, and your camera easily accessible. Altitude: You will descend from Saga at around 4,600m to Shigatse at 3,845m, making the overnight stay more comfortable after several days in western Tibet.

• Driving & Distance: Approx. 270 km | 4.5–5 hours
• Altitude Change: Shigatse 3,845m → Lhasa 3,650m

After breakfast, visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the largest monastery in the Shigatse region and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lamas.

Walk through its courtyards and prayer halls to see the impressive Maitreya Buddha, Panchen Lama stupas, murals, and Buddhist artworks. You may also see monks and local pilgrims following their daily religious routines.

If time and energy allow, walk to a higher viewpoint for a panoramic view over Tashilhunpo Monastery and Shigatse.

After the visit, drive back to Lhasa. Follow the highway through river valleys, farmland, mountains, and Tibetan villages before arriving at your downtown hotel.

• Altitude: Lhasa 3,650m
• Transfer: Hotel → Lhasa Airport or Railway Station

Your 15-day Tibet Private Tour comes to an end today. After breakfast, enjoy some free time before checking out of your hotel.

At the scheduled time, your guide and driver will transfer you to Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station for your onward journey.

We hope your journey from Lhasa to Everest, Mount Kailash, and western Tibet leaves you with unforgettable memories.

Prefer a Group Tour? Extend to 16 Days: Want to explore Lhasa, Everest Base Camp, Mount Kailash & Guge Kingdom at a lower cost? You can also choose our 16 Days Tibet Group Tour , traveling with a small group on a fixed itinerary and departure date.