Tibet Tour or Lhasa Tour with Everest Base Camp (North) - 9 Days

Tour Info

trip code

DE-0018

Starting Point/ End Point

kathmandu

Accommodations

Lodge/Tea House

Max Altitude

4980m

Duration

9 days

country

Nepal

Trip grade

Challenging

Activities

City Tour

Best Season

March to May (Spring) and September to Novemb

Overview

This 8-day Tibet tour will include Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, and the northern route to the Everest Base Camp. It begins in Kathmandu and traverses the high-altitude terrain linking cultural cities with distant mountain areas. Pathways involve monasteries, lakes, and overland journeys that are through Tibet. The altitude rises gradually, starting at 1,300m in Kathmandu up to around 5,000m in the area of Everest. This trip is a mix of road transport, short walks, and visiting the city. Accommodation is in the form of comfortable hotels in urban areas and simple yet clean lodges in rural areas.

Details

This route is a practical choice for travelers who want to experience the main highlights of Tibet without spending too much time. The trip starts in the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, where you will be able to get acquainted with the rich cultural heritage, ancient temples and stupas, local markets, and feel the vibrant city life. Kathmandu is the entry point to the Himalayas, which provides an understanding of Nepalese culture, traditions, and life.

From Kathmandu, you travel to Tibet, starting in Lhasa. In this case, you will find some of the most important cultural and religious locations, including the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street, which represent the peculiarities of Tibetan spirituality and their rich history. On your way to Gyantse and Shigatse, you will be exposed to more traditional towns, ancient monasteries, and day-to-day life outside the capital, which will provide you with a genuine insight into the Tibetan culture.

The path subsequently takes one to Everest Base Camp North, where the landscape is revealed, and the high-altitude world can be seen better. You will find snow-topped mountains, glaciers, highland plains, and little villages on the way, which will provide you with both nature and culture. Most of the roads on this route are well-maintained, making travel smoother and less physically demanding than more remote trekking paths.

In general, this path will give a good mix of life in the Nepalese cities, Tibetan culture, and the amazing mountainous landscapes. It is also a perfect option when first-time visitors wish to have a balanced, practical, and memorable experience of both Nepal and Tibet without the hassles of long trekking or travelling far and wide.

Highlights

  • Stay in Lhasa city, where there are good hotels and comfortable amenities.

  • Sightseeing of important monasteries and historic sites in Lhasa in the cultural context.

  • Air travel through the Tibetan plateau with a slow rise in altitude.

  • Excursion through Yamdrok Lake with mountain roads and designated checkpoints.

  • Tour to Gyantse and Shigatse, which is a traditional Tibetan town environment.

  • Road access with close mountain views to the Everest Base Camp (North)

  • Keep close to the Rongbuk region having direct access to the Everest region.

  • Combination of comfort in normal luxury hotels in urban areas to simple lodges in isolated locations.

  • Extensive scenic routes of 90 km to 334km of diverse landscape.

  • Transit experience between Kathmandu and Tibet and back route via Kerung.

Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu (1,300m)

Upon reaching Kathmandu, you will be greeted at the airport and taken to your hotel. Once you have checked in, you are able to relax and unwind after the travel. This day is reserved free so that you can relax and adapt to the new surroundings and get ready to take the trip. You can also take a small walk around the surrounding area, if you feel like it, to have a first impression of the city, or just enjoy some rest in the hotel. There are basic facilities and comfortable accommodation to give you a smooth beginning of your trip.

  • Max Elevation: 1,300m

  • Accommodation: Hotel

  • Meal: Breakfast 

Day 2: Kathmandu sightseeing

The day is a complete sightseeing day in Kathmandu, as you will be visiting some of the most significant cultural, historical, and spiritual places of the city. There are short drives between the destinations during the tour, which offer you the opportunity to explore the colorful streets of the city, the local markets, and the historic buildings. The day will be planned at an easy pace in such a way that you do not have to hurry up to visit every single place. The sightseeing will be followed by coming back to the hotel and relaxing in the evening.

The major tourist attractions are:

  • Pashupatinath Temple: It is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in Nepal, which is situated on the banks of the river Bagmati.

  • Boudhanath Stupa: UNESCO World Heritage and one of the biggest stupas in Nepal, a seat of Tibetan Buddhism.

  • Kathmandu Durbar Square: The historic square of Kathmandu city that has palaces, temples, and courtyards that have medieval architecture.

  • Patan Durbar Square: Known for its ancient palaces, temples, and traditional Newari art and architecture.

  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Bhaktapur Durbar Square is known because of its medieval city structure and pagodas,s as well as its cultural heritage.

  • The Kastamandap is the historic wooden pavilion that gave the city its name; it is a crucial cultural landmark.

  • Thamel: Shopping area and restaurants, which is the busiest place to visit in order to see the local life.

  • Other scenic locations: Streets with traditional buildings, local markets, and temples in the secluded areas of the city.

The sightseeing day is a balanced tour of the history, culture, and urban lifestyle of Kathmanduu and it provides you with a true insight into the rich Nepalese heritage.

  • Max Elevation: 1,300m

  • Travel Distance: 10 to 20 km

  • Travel Hours: 4 to 5 hours

  • Accommodation: Hotel

  • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

 

Day 3-4: Kathmandu to Lhasa (3,650m): Two Full Days Sightseeing Tour in Lhasa

Depending on the itinerary, travel between Kathmandu and Lhasa by either air or road. The flight time is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, and the overland route is longer, with the elevation gradually increasing. Once you have reached Lhasa, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you will have time to relax since the altitude is way more than Kathmandu.

 

On the following day, you will be able to see Lhasa visiting the key cultural and religious sites, including the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street. Sightseeing is also done by short drives and easy walks, and you are able to explore at your own speed and also acclimate to the altitude. The schedule will remain balanced so that there is no strain, and you will have time to rest between visits. It is in well-equipped hotels that have standard amenities.

  • Potala Palace: One of the most iconic landmarks in Tibet and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It served as the winter residence of the Dalai Lama and offers stunning architecture along with panoramic views of Lhasa.

  • Jokhang Temple: The most sacred temple in Tibet, located in the heart of Lhasa. It attracts pilgrims from all over and has a deeply spiritual atmosphere with ancient statues and traditional Tibetan design.

  • Barkhor Street: A lively market street surrounding Jokhang Temple. It is perfect for experiencing local culture, shopping for traditional items, and observing pilgrims performing ritual walks.

  • Lhasa City Acclimatization & Hotel Stay: Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel where you can rest and adjust to the high altitude. The stay is in a well-equipped hotel with standard amenities, allowing a comfortable and gradual acclimatization process.

  • Max Elevation: 3,650m

  • Travel Distance: Flight: ~600 km / Local: 5 to 15 km per day

  • Travel Hours: Flight: 1 to 1.5 hours / Sightseeing: 4 to 5 hours per day

  • Accommodation: Hotel

  • Meal: Breakfast included

 

Day 5: Lhasa - Gyantse (3950m) Via Yandrok Lake 261 km

Day 5 is gonna be a long but scenic drive from Lhasa to Gyantse. This trip will see you go through mountain roads where you have a number of viewpoints along the way, including the views of Yamdrok Lake, which is one of the largest lakes in Tibet. The drive will have brief breaks to rest, take pictures, and have fun. Mostly, the roads are paved, and the journey is more stable, though some areas might still be rough because of the altitude and the terrain. The scenery gradually becomes drier and drier as you go on. When you reach Gyantse, you will be accommodated in a simple yet nice lodge or hotel and spend the night.

  • Yamdrok Lake (Yamdrok Yumtso):  This is one of the biggest and the most beautiful lakes in Tibet. It is an ideal place to take pictures because of its turquoise waters and snow-capped mountains.

  • Karo La Glacier Viewpoint: Karo La Glacier and the surrounding mountains are a great sight to visit in the event of time. It is an excellent place to stretch your legs and have a view.

  • Tradruk Monastery (optional visit): One of the oldest monasteries in Tibet, which is situated toward the early end of the way. It has a serene environment and spectacular buildings.

  • Gyantse town: Arrive at Gyantse in the evening. See the little town, where time will allow you. You will also spend the night in a nice lodge or hotel.

This day will be both exciting in terms of mountain driving and will offer an opportunity to observe some of the most recognizable natural and cultural sites in Tibet. Always remember to move slowly, take water and enjoy the spectacular views on the way.

Day 6: Gyantse to Shingatse (3900m) 90km

You will now make a short journey of about 90 km out of Gyantse to Shigatse. The highway goes through small towns, farmlands, and open lands, providing a good overview of life outside the major cities. The highways are normally smooth and easy to navigate and this is a good traveling day. When you arrive in Shigatse, you will enter a comfortable hotel that has middle-level luxury and standard facilities. The remaining hours are at liberty to relax, visit the town around or have a sight of the mountains around.

  • Max Elevation: 3,900m

  • Travel Distance: 90 km

  • Travel Hours: 2 to 3 hours

  • Accommodation: Hotel

  • Meal: Breakfast included

Day 7: Shigatse to Rongbuk (4,980m) – 334 km (7–8 hrs)

It is a long way to-day between Shigatse and Rongbuk, further into the Everest country. Today’s drive covers 334 km and takes approximately 7–8 hours. The further you go, the more remote the roads become, a few of them are rough, and the scenery is changed to the high-altitude landscape. You will go through bare plains, mountain passes, and small towns on the road. In this area, there are few facilities and hence short stops. When you reach Rongbuk, you will be staying in a simple guesthouse or lodge with simple yet sufficient comfort. This night will provide you with an opportunity to relax and prepare for the visit to the Everest Base Camp.

Max Elevation: 5,000m (approx. along the route)
Travel Distance: 334 km
Travel Hours: 7 to 8 hours
Accommodation: Guesthouse/Lodge
Meal: Breakfast included

Day 8: Ronbuk- Everest BC - Kerung

The day starts with a 8 km drive (Rongbuk to North Everest Base Camp). In this case, you will have opportunities to see the highest peak of the world and glaciers. You will begin the journey back after spending some time at the Base Camp and will be driving towards Kerung. The back road is 6-7 hours long and traverses the mountainous landscape with breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and tiny villages. The roads are difficult in some parts, but the ride offers an unusual view of the Everest area. You will spend the night in accommodation that is more comfortable than at Rongbuk in Kerung, where you will have a peaceful evening after a tedious day of traveling.

Max Elevation: 5,200m (Everest Base Camp North)
Travel Distance: Approx. 8 km to Base Camp + 6 to 7 hours drive to Kerung
Travel Hours: Short drive + 6 to 7 hours return
Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge
Meal: Breakfast included

Day 9: Kerung – Kathmandu (1,300m) and Airport Transfer

You will go back to Kathmandu today after finishing your trip around Tibet. This may be a long drive of about 10-12 hours by road over the high altitude areas to the lower valleys or a flight of about 11.5 hours, depending on availability. The drive provides beautiful scenery on the route and an opportunity to contemplate the journey. Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be either checked into a nice hotel in the city or transferred to the airport, where you will take your next flight. This is a good way of ending your Tibet tour in a smooth and relaxed way.

  • Max Elevation: 1,300m

  • Travel Distance: Road approx. 400 to 450 km / Flight ~600 km

  • Travel Hours: Road: 10 to 12 hours / Flight: 1 to 1.5 hours

  • Accommodation: Hotel or airport lounge

  • Meal: Breakfast included

What's included

  • Pick-up and drop-off of Kathmandu airport by private tourist vehicle.

  • 3-star Kathmandu hotel twin-sharing accommodation 6 nights with breakfast and taxes.

  • 3-star hotel twin-sharing accommodation in Lhasa, Gyantse, and Shigatse 7 nights, with breakfast and taxes.

  • A single night in a tented guesthouse at Rongbuk.

  • Every land transportation in a personal tourist car according to the daily schedule.

  • Sightseeing tours of Nepal Sightseeing tours of Nepal with a licensed English speaking tourist guide, transportation included.

  • Admission charges of monuments and temples and sightseeing in Kathmandu.

  • Tibet visa, entry fees of all the temples, monasteries, parks and cultural or historical places in Tibet.

  • Tour guide in English language during the tour of Tibet and Nepal.

  • Ground personnel/aids required in the tour including their meals, lodging, salary, insurance, gear and medicine.

  • Free Ace the Himalaya duffel/kit bag, sunhat, neck gaiter (buff) and trip certificate.

  • Last day, farewell dinner in a Nepali restaurant in Kathmandu.

  • There are all the government charges and official costs of the tour.

What's excluded

  • Airfare to and from Kathmandu.

  • Flight fare between Kathmandu and Lhasa.

  • Any other meal that is not included in the itinerary (lunch and dinner during the trip).

  • Nepal entry visa fee (can be acquired in Kathmandu airport).

  • Travel insurance in case of emergency, medical costs, baggage loss, flight cancellations etc.

  • Personal expenditures, such as bottled drinks, juices, alcoholic beverages or any other personal expenditure.

  • Advice to the Nepali tour guide, Tibetan guide and drivers.

  • Additional expenses on accommodation, meals, transfers, or flights in the event of early repatriation, delays, or problems with permits and visas by the Chinese government or other uncontrollable circumstances.

  • Extra costs in case of natural calamities, rescue, political upheavals, or other unexpected events.

Packing List for Tibet Tour or Lhasa Tour with Everest Base Camp (North)

Traveling over the Tibetan Plateau to Lhasa and the route to the North Everest Base Camp in Tibet Autonomous Region traverses high deserts, low temperatures, and even high UV levels. The climate gets very changeable, changing temperature and sometimes from sunny weather to freezing temperatures in a matter of moments, particularly close to the base camp at Mount Everest. Smart Layering and Preparation for the essential gear are essential for comfort, safety and acclimatization.

 

Head

  • Warm woolen beanie

  • Buff or neck gaiter

  • UV-protection sunglasses

  • Climbing sunglasses 

  • Lightweight headlamp with extra batteries

  • Sun hat or cap

  • High-SPF sunscreen

  • Lip protection cream

  • Face moisturizer

  • Personal hygiene wipes

 

Hands

  • Lightweight inner gloves

  • Waterproof outer gloves

  • Heavy insulated summit gloves

  • Hand warmers (optional)

 

Upper Body

  • Thermal base layers 

  • Lightweight trekking t-shirts

  • Long-sleeved trekking shirts

  • Fleece jacket

  • Waterproof shell jacket

  • Windproof outer layer

  • Insulated summit jacket

  • Lightweight puffy jacket

 

Lower Body

  • Thermal inner pants

  • Trekking trousers

  • Waterproof shell pants

  • Insulated climbing pants

  • Comfortable camp pants

  • Fleece lined pants

 

Footwear

  • Waterproof hiking boots

  • Peak climbing boots.

  • Flip-flops or sandals for outdoor wear

  • Gaiters

  • Woolen trekking socks

  • Liner socks

  • Summit push boots

  • Climbing Equipment

  • Climbing harness

  • Ice axe

  • Crampons

 

Ascend and descend Equipments

  • Locking carabiners

  • Helmet

  • Safety ropes and slings

  • Trekking poles

 

Climbing backpack

  • Duffel bag

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Biodegradable soap

  • Quick-dry towel

  • Toilet paper

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Small shampoo bottle

  • Wet wipes

  • Nail clipper

  • A moisturizer and cold cream

 

Accessories

  • Water bottles

  • Water purification tablet or Filter

  • Power bank

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Portable Solar Charger (Optional)

  • Camera or mobile phone

  • Snacks and energy bars

  • Notebook or journal

 

First Aid Kit

  • Diamox

  • Personal prescription medicines

  • Pain relievers

  • Medical tape and bandages.

  • Blister treatment kit

  • Antiseptic cream and wipes

  • Anti-diarrheal medicine

  • Oral rehydration salts

  • Oral/parenteral medications for cough and cold symptoms

Specific Gears for Women

Additional items of comfort and protection on long mountain days should be carried by women who are going up the Triangle Peak. The weather around high camps and summit areas in the Everest region may be quite cold and dry.

  • Sports bras

  • Thermal leggings

  • Comfortable undergarments

  • Sanitary pads or tampons

  • Personal skincare products

  • Moisturizing lotion

  • Lip care products

  • Travel-size hygiene products

  • Fleece headband

  • Hair ties and clips

Documents Required

Access to this area is strictly controlled, as it is located in sensitive Tibet Autonomous Region and permits must be prepaid with the assistance of registered tour operators.

  • Tibet Travel Permit:  It is the primary entrance permit that is essential for every foreigner coming into Tibet, including access to Lhasa and EBC (Everest Base Camp). Only given at the registered agencies and only after approval upon arrival.

  • Chinese Group Visa: Group Visa obtained in Nepal or China is compulsory. Don't be tempted to buy one Chinese tourist visa to go to Tibet, particularly to Everest Base Camp.

  • Alien Travel Permit: This permit will be needed for traveling beyond Lhasa, outside of the main tourist path and in remote areas, including the route to Everest Base Camp. It's arranged by you after arriving in Tibet by your tour company.

  • Military Permit: There are some restricted regions near Mt. Everest that will need extra military permission for both base camp and other regions, particularly near the base of Mt. Everest.

  • Valid Passport: Passport should be valid for at least 6 months before the date of travel and should match all the information in the visa application.

  • Passport Photos: Carry multiple recent passport size photos that may be required for permits, visa processing and emergency paperwork.

  • Travel Insurance: Insurance will be recommended for high altitude travel, emergency evacuation and medical treatments in case of emergency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Tibet Everest Base Camp (North) tour?

This trek is moderate (not technical), a long drive and high elevation are the reasons that the journey is not too difficult. But near the Base Camp of Everest in altitudes above 5000m breathing may become more difficult and it is extremely crucial to climb slowly.

Do I need a visa for Tibet and Everest Base Camp?

Yes, you need a Chinese Group Visa along with a Tibet Travel Permit. These documents are arranged by an authorized travel agency. Foreign tourists won't be able to travel alone into Tibet and to EBC.

What is the best time to visit Lhasa and Everest Base Camp?

The best time of year is from April to October. In these months, the weather is clearer, roads are available, and it is more visible to see the mountain views of Mount Everest during this period. Winters are very cold and it is not so suitable for traveling.

Is altitude sickness a serious concern on this trip?

Yes, there is a possibility of developing altitude sickness above 3600meters to 5200 meters of elevation. Symptoms such as headache, dizziness or fatigue can be minimized with a good rest, adequate hydration and gradual ascent.

Can beginners do the Tibet Everest Base Camp tour?

Yes, it is possible for beginners to do it, as there is no technical climbing involved. But good physical fitness and mental preparation; are essential to deal with the long drives, cold weather and high altitudes during the trip.

How long does the Tibet Everest Base Camp tour take?

The tour is booked for about 8 to12 days, which will depend on the tour. There are also some packages that add extra days to visit Lhasa for cultural tours and visiting the monasteries before reaching Everest Base camp.

What kind of accommodation is available during the tour?

Accommodation includes comfortable hotels in cities like Lhasa and basic guesthouses in remote regions. Facilities become simpler as you approach Everest Base Camp, but most places offer warm bedding and essential services.

Is mobile network available during the journey?

Mobile coverage is available in major towns such as Lhasa but becomes weak or unavailable in remote areas near Everest Base Camp. Internet access may also be limited due to geographic isolation and restrictions.

What food is available during the Tibet tour?

Meals usually include rice, noodles, vegetables, soups, Tibetan bread, and some Chinese dishes. Vegetarian options are widely available, but food variety becomes more limited in remote areas near Everest Base Camp.

Why is the North Everest Base Camp route special?

The North Base Camp in Mount Everest offers one of the closest vehicle-accessible views of the world’s highest peak. Combined with cultural stops in Lhasa, it creates a unique blend of spiritual, cultural, and Himalayan adventure experience.

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