Arrival-Lhasa Transfer

Upon arrival, a Tibetan guide will meet the traveler at the airport or train station. They will be transferred to a hotel in downtown Lhasa. The route passes by the Yarlung Tsangpo River, Lhasa River, and typical Tibetan villages. After reaching the hotel, time is given to rest and acclimate to the high altitude. No sightseeing is planned for this day.

Potala Palace Visit

The day starts with a visit to Potala Palace, which served as the Dalai Lama's winter residence. This palace has been utilized since the 7th century, established by Tibet's 33rd great king. Among its most important features are the gilded burial stupas of past Dalai Lamas and the meditation cave belonging to the 33rd great king.

90 min

Jokhang Temple Tour

Following lunch, the group proceeds to Jokhang Temple, founded in the 7th century by the 33rd great king of Tibet. Inside the temple is a statue representing Buddha Sakyamuni at twelve years old. Outside the temple, pilgrims are often seen performing prostrations.

90 min

Barkhor Street and Tea House

Around Jokhang Temple is Barkhor Street, where pilgrims and locals perform kora, a religious circumambulation. Visitors can explore the old market in this area. There is also an opportunity to taste Tibetan tea with locals in a tea house. A welcome dinner will be arranged accordingly.

60 min

Sera Monastery Visit

In the afternoon, visitors explore Sera Monastery, recognized as one of Tibet's three principal Gelug monasteries. The highlight is the monks' debate, which takes place between 3 and 5 pm. Additionally, guests can visit the Tibetan religious scripture printing facility. Within the monastery, three sand Mandalas and colorful rock paintings of Buddha are on display.

120 min

Dadong Village and Nyimatang Monastery

In the morning, the group visits Dadong Village instead of Drepung Monastery. Dadong is a well-preserved ancient Tibetan village surrounded by valleys, located 25 kilometers southwest of Lhasa downtown. The visit includes Nyimatang Monastery, built in the 11th century, a light walk in the village to observe rural life, and lunch with a local Tibetan family.

180 min

Lhasa to Shigatse Drive

In the morning, the drive from Lhasa to Shigatse begins. Along the way, the route crosses Gampala Pass at 4790 meters. Travelers will have views of Yamdrok-tso Lake at 4400 meters, which is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. In the distance, Holy Mount Nyenchen Khangsar, the highest mountain near Lhasa at 7191 meters, can be seen.

30 min

Karola Glacier and Gyantse Arrival

Later, the route goes past Karola Glacier, which can be seen from the roadside. At Manak Dam Lake, there is an opportunity to hang prayer flags at Simila Mountain Pass. The group then reaches Gyantse, known historically as Tibet's third largest city following Lhasa and Shigatse.

30 min

Tashilunpo Monastery and Lhatse Lunch

In the morning, the tour visits Tashilunpo Monastery, the residence of the Panchen Lama. Afterward, the group departs Shigatse once the Alien’s travel permit is obtained. The drive continues to Lhatse, a small town where lunch is taken.

90 min

Everest Base Camp Drive

The route passes Tsola Pass at 4600 meters and Gyatsola Pass at 5248 meters. Shortly after, the group enters Mt. Everest National Nature Reserve. At Gawula Pass at 5198 meters, panoramic views of the Himalaya are available. The drive continues along a new zigzag road to Everest Base Camp at 5200 meters. Visitors can approach Mt. Everest peak closely. If time and weather permit, the sunset on the golden Everest peak can be observed at the lodging area.

90 min

Everest Sunrise and Rongbuk Monastery

In the morning, if weather permits, travelers can view the sunrise on Everest Peak from the lodging area. Then, they visit Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery where nuns and monks live together. Later, the group visits Everest Base Camp to photograph Mt. Everest at the closest distance. Afterward, the drive continues from EBC to Kyirong border. Along the way, views of Mt. Shishapangma and Pekutso Lake are visible. After passing Ghungtang Lhamo at 5236 meters, arrival in Kyirong is expected in the late afternoon.

30 min

Kyirong Border Approach

On the way from Everest Base Camp to Kyirong border, travelers can see views of Mt. Shishapangma and Pekutso Lake. After passing Ghungtang Lhamo at 5236 meters, the group arrives in Kyirong in the late afternoon.

Gyirong Forest and Waterfalls

Descending from over 5000 meters to Gyirong County, the landscape changes to forest and waterfall scenery, differing from the snowy terrain above.

Gyirong Border Exit

The tour guide assists clients with exiting China and sees them off at the Gyirong border. Service ends here. Clients may opt for a jeep transfer to Kathmandu for an additional US$ 60.