Tibet 8 Day Tour: Lhasa & Everest Base Camp

Description

Day 1: Lhasa

We'll pick you up at Lhasa Airport or the central train station. From there, we'll take you to the hotel in Lhasa, where you can rest until the next day or begin exploring on your own; welcome to Tibet!

Day 2: Lhasa

On our first day, we'll dive head-first into Tibet's rich culture. Our journey starts at the majestic Potala Palace, where the Dalai Lama spent his winters. We'll explore this historic residence as we learn about its incredible history.

Next up is the Jokhang Temple, a spiritual haven. Here, you'll admire the sacred Sakyamuni statue and discover the temple's fascinating legends and history. Ever heard the tale of the two princesses and the Buddhist statue?

As the day winds down, we'll take a stroll through the bustling Bakhor district. We'll walk part of a pilgrimage route for countless devotees heading to the Jokhang Temple. This district is a shopper's paradise with street vendors selling handicraft items and other goods.

To cap off this exciting day, we'll treat you to a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you'll savor the authentic flavors of Tibet. It's a delightful introduction to the region's traditional cuisine.

Day 3: Lhasa

After a hearty breakfast at our Lhasa hotel, we're off to explore the charming village of Dadong, nestled in the picturesque region surrounding the city of Lhasa.

Once we arrive, our first stop is the Nyimatang Monastery, a historic gem dating back to the 11th century. You'll be captivated by its beauty and rich history. We'll also take a leisurely stroll through the village, immersing ourselves in the traditional way of life. Prepare to meet a friendly local family and share a meal with them, a fantastic opportunity for cultural exchange.

After lunch, we'll set our course for the Sera Monastery. Here, you're in for a unique treat – witnessing a lively debate among Buddhist monks.

As the day winds down, we'll make our way back to Lhasa, returning to our hotel for some well-deserved rest.

Day 4: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse

Before we set off from Lhasa to Gyantse, we'll fuel up with a hearty breakfast. Get ready for a journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. Picture this: towering mountains and the stunning Yamdrok Lake, all at an altitude of nearly 4,500 meters (15,000 feet) above sea level. It's a sight you won't soon forget.

Our next stop is Gyantse, where we'll explore the renowned Palcho Monastery, also known as Pelkor Chode. What's unique about this place is that it peacefully houses three different Tibetan Buddhist traditions. As we wander through, you'll have the chance to admire its chapels, Buddha sculptures, and impressive stupa.

After an enjoyable drive of about an hour and a half, we'll reach our hotel in Shigatse. It's the perfect spot to unwind and recharge after an exhilarating day of exploration.

Day 5: Shigatse - Everest Base Camp

Once we've eaten breakfast at the hotel in Shigatse, we'll set off to explore the fascinating Tashilunpo Monastery. Here, you'll discover the resting place of the Panchen Lama and find the largest, incredibly well-preserved statue of Jampa.

Our journey continues as we head to Lhatse, a charming small town, where we'll take a break for a delicious lunch. We'll then embark on the road to Everest Base Camp. Our route will take us through the Tsola Pass, then the Gyatsola Pass, which leads us to the majestic Gawula Pass, standing tall at 5,198 meters (17,053 feet). From here, prepare to be awestruck by the breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Finally, after an intense hike, we'll reach an altitude of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) and we'll settle in at a cozy lodge, situated at the base of the world's highest peak.

Day 6: Everest Base Camp - Shigatse

We'll start our day early to catch the breathtaking sunrise over Mount Everest. After soaking in the views, we'll make our way to Rongbuk Monastery. Situated in the charming town of Basum, famous for being the highest inhabited place on Earth, just a mere 200 meters below Everest Base Camp.

As the day moves on, we'll head back to Shigatse, taking with us the incredible memories of Mount Everest.

Day 7: Shigatse - Lhasa

On the last day, we'll head back to Lhasa. On the way, we'll drive through the Yalong Valley. In the afternoon, we'll arrive at the hotel in Lhasa.

Day 8: Lhasa

After breakfast at the hotel in Lhasa, we'll take you back to the airport or the train station.

Lodging and meals

The tour includes seven nights of accommodation in the following places:

• Lhasa (4 nights): GangGyan Lhasa Hotel (4 stars) or similar
• Shigatse (2 nights): Shigayangcha Hotel (4 stars) or similar
• Everest Base Camp (1 night): Rongpuk Tent Guest House or similar

Accommodation at all hotels on the itinerary includes breakfasts, except on the day we wake up at Everest Base Camp. A welcome dinner is included on the second day, but you'll have free time for all other lunches and dinners on your own.

Important information

• To enter Tibet, you'll need a special permit. Simply provide your passport details when booking. You'll receive the Tibet Entry Permit in about 8 working days after booking. Remember to bring your passport with you on the trip.
• Pickup from the airport or train station is at 10 am, 1:30 pm, and 5 pm. 
• The transfer back to the airport or train station is at 6:30 am, 8 am, or 12 pm. 
• If pickup or drop–off is booked at a time other than the above, we'll get in touch with you to arrange the exact pickup time and place.

Note on prices

Tours require a minimum of two participants. If you book as a solo traveler and no one else joins on the same dates, you have two options:

1. Pay an additional fee for a solo tour
2. Reschedule for an available date without extra charges

For group reservations with an odd number of participants, involving both double and single rooms (with their associated supplements, see above), follow this process:

1. First, book the double room(s)
2. Then, book the single room(s)

In the comments section during the booking process, make sure to specify you're traveling together for the different reservations you make.

Children under 4

Due to the difficulty level of the route, the activity is not recommended for children under 4 years old.