Overview
Stand before the world’s highest peak on this epic overland journey from Lhasa to the North Face of Mt Everest (Qomolangma, 8848 m / 29,031 ft). Combine Tibet’s spiritual treasures—Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Bazaar—with dramatic high-Himalayan scenery, the turquoise Yamdrok Tso, Gyantse’s Kumbum Stupa, and historic Shigatse. Wind across high passes such as Gyatso La (5,220 m) and Gyawu La (5,198 m) for a sweeping panorama of four 8,000-meter giants before overnighting at Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse (4,980 m)—the closest lodging to Everest’s legendary north face.
Designed for active, culturally-curious travelers, this itinerary balances authentic local encounters, gradual altitude acclimatization, and unforgettable alpine vistas.
Important Notes
- ⚠ Ensure you book at least 30 days in advance to secure your Tibet Travel Permit.
- ⚠ Altitude sickness is a real risk—please consult your doctor and arrive well-prepared with appropriate medication or oxygen support.
- ⚠ The Rongbuk Guesthouse has very basic shared facilities. Please expect simple amenities and limited heating.
- ⚠ Road conditions and Everest Base Camp access can vary depending on weather and government regulations.
- ⚠ All foreign travelers must join a guided tour to enter Tibet—independent travel is not allowed.
Tour Facts
- Start / Finish: Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China
- Highest Altitude: 5,220 m (17,126 ft) – Gyatso La pass
- Travel Style: Cultural immersion, high-altitude sightseeing
- Group Size: Min 3 / Max 12
- Single Supplement: USD 266 (if requesting a private room)
- Permit Lead-time: Book ≥ 30 days in advance for Tibet Travel Permit
What’s Included
- ✔ Licensed English-speaking Tibetan guide
- ✔ 7 nights accommodation (twin share; 3-4★ hotels & basic guesthouse at Rongbuk)
- ✔ All listed site entrance fees & Tibet Travel Permit
- ✔ Private, oxygen-equipped vehicle with professional driver
- ✔ Airport/rail transfers in Lhasa
- ✔ Breakfasts × 7 (plus bottled water en route)
- ✔ Support for altitude sickness prevention & 24 h local assistance
What’s Not Included
- ✘ International / domestic air or train tickets
- ✘ China visa & any additional permits (we provide invitation letter)
- ✘ Lunches / dinners unless specified (budget ≈ USD 10-15 per meal)
- ✘ Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, tips)
- ✘ Travel & medical insurance (mandatory)
- ✘ Single-room supplement (if applicable)
Itinerary
Click each day to view detailed program
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa (3,650 m)
Upon your arrival in Lhasa—Tibet’s spiritual and political capital—you’ll be greeted by your Tibetan guide and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is reserved for rest and altitude acclimatization. We recommend a light walk around the hotel area to gently adapt to the elevation.
Overnight: Tashi Norta Hotel (3★)
Meals: Not included
Day 2: Lhasa City Tour – Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street
Begin your exploration with a guided visit to Potala Palace, the iconic red-and-white structure perched above the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the winter residence of the Dalai Lama, it houses sacred relics and rich murals.
Next, venture into Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism and home to a revered statue of the Buddha Shakyamuni. You’ll then stroll along Barkhor Street, a bustling pilgrimage route filled with spinning prayer wheels, incense, and local crafts. Optional visit to a traditional Tibetan tea house.
Overnight: Tashi Norta Hotel (3★)
Meals: Breakfast included
Day 3: Lhasa Monastery Tour – Drepung and Sera Monasteries
Visit Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world, and Sera Monastery, famous for its energetic monk debates. Gain insight into Tibetan monastic life and Buddhist education.
Overnight: Tashi Norta Hotel (3★)
Meals: Breakfast included
Day 4: Lhasa → Gyantse → Shigatse (3,900 m)
Scenic drive via Yamdrok Lake, Karo La Glacier, and Gyantse’s Kumbum Stupa before continuing to Shigatse.
Overnight: Shigatse Hotel (4★)
Meals: Breakfast included
Day 5: Shigatse → Shegar → Rongbuk Monastery (4,980 m)
Cross Gyatso La Pass for first views of Everest, then Gyawu La for panoramic views of four 8,000m peaks. Arrive at Rongbuk Monastery for overnight.
Overnight: Rongbuk Guesthouse (shared facilities)
Meals: Breakfast included
Day 6: Rongbuk Monastery – Mt Everest Sunrise & Return to Shigatse
Sunrise over Everest and optional short walk toward base camp marker. Return via scenic passes.
Overnight: Shigatse Hotel (4★)
Meals: Breakfast included
Day 7: Shigatse → Lhasa
Drive along the Yarlung Tsangpo River back to Lhasa, enjoying peaceful landscapes.
Overnight: Tashi Norta Hotel (3★)
Meals: Breakfast included
Day 8: Lhasa Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Lhasa airport or railway station for departure.
Overnight: Not included
Meals: Breakfast included
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Tibet Travel Permit?
Yes, foreign travelers must obtain a Tibet Travel Permit in addition to a Chinese visa. We will handle the permit application, which requires at least 30 days advance booking.
What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
April to October is generally the best period, offering clear skies and comfortable temperatures. June–September may see occasional rain, but mountain views can still be stunning.
Is the altitude dangerous?
This tour includes high-altitude locations over 5,000 meters. Our itinerary is designed to allow gradual acclimatization, and our team provides support to reduce risks of altitude sickness.
Can I take photos at Mt Everest?
Yes, photography is allowed. The viewpoint near Rongbuk Monastery offers one of the best views of Everest’s north face.
What kind of vehicles are used?
We use clean, oxygen-equipped licensed vehicles with experienced drivers familiar with the mountain terrain.
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