Discover the cultural treasures of Tibet and stand beneath the world's highest mountain on this unforgettable journey from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp, featuring ancient monasteries, sacred lakes, spectacular Himalayan scenery and breathtaking views of Mount Everest's north face.
Tibet Everest Base Camp Tour combines Tibet’s most important cultural and religious landmarks with one of the most spectacular mountain journeys in the Himalayas. Beginning with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa, the tour explores the spiritual heart of Tibet, including the magnificent Potala Palace, the sacred Jokhang Temple, the bustling Barkhor Bazaar and the renowned Drepung and Sera Monasteries. These historic sites offer a fascinating insight into Tibetan Buddhism, culture and centuries-old traditions that continue to shape daily life across the region.
Travelling west across the vast Tibetan Plateau, journey through breathtaking landscapes of high mountain passes, turquoise lakes, glaciers and traditional Tibetan settlements. Visit the sacred Yamdrok Lake, explore the historic towns of Gyantse and Shigatse, and continue to Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest monastery. The highlight of the tour is a visit to Everest Base Camp Tibet (5,200m), where spectacular views of Mount Everest, Lhotse and Makalu create an unforgettable Himalayan experience. Combining rich cultural heritage with extraordinary scenery, this journey offers a remarkable introduction to Tibet and the north face of the world’s highest mountain.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Tibet Everest Base Camp Tour.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Fly Kathmandu – Lhasa (3,650m)
Day 2: Lhasa sightseeing – Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Bazaar
Day 3: Lhasa sightseeing – Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery
Day 4: Drive Lhasa – Yamdrok Lake – Gyantse – Shigatse (3,900m)
Day 5: Drive Shigatse – Rongbuk Monastery (5,000m)
Day 6: Visit Everest Base Camp (5,200m) and drive to Sakya (4,050m)
Day 7: Drive Sakya – Lhasa (3,650m)
Day 8: Fly Lhasa – Kathmandu
Please note: This itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change due to weather conditions, road conditions, local regulations or operational requirements.
Note: All tours are lead by a professional tour guide
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Fly Kathmandu - Lhasa (3,650m)
This morning, take a spectacular trans-Himalayan flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa, widely regarded as one of the most scenic mountain flights in the world. Weather permitting, enjoy incredible aerial views of the Himalayan range, including several of the world’s highest peaks.
Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport, meet your Tibetan guide and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to rest and begin acclimatising to Tibet’s high altitude.
Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 2: Lhasa Sightseeing - Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Bazaar (B)
After breakfast, explore the magnificent Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama and one of Tibet’s most recognisable landmarks. Perched high above Lhasa, the palace contains countless chapels, shrines, murals and sacred relics.
Later, visit the revered Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s most sacred religious site and an important pilgrimage destination for Tibetan Buddhists. Continue to the bustling Barkhor Circuit, where pilgrims walk clockwise around the temple while local traders sell traditional Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, jewellery and religious artefacts.
Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 3: Lhasa Sightseeing - Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery (B)
Today visit Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world and one of the most important centres of Tibetan Buddhist learning. Explore its assembly halls, chapels and monastic quarters while learning about its significant role in Tibetan history.
Continue to Sera Monastery, famous for its lively monk debates. Here, monks engage in traditional philosophical discussions through animated gestures and dialogue, offering a fascinating insight into Tibetan Buddhist education. The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration.
Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 4: Drive Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Gyantse - Shigatse (3,900m) | Approx. 350km (B)
Leave Lhasa and begin your journey across the Tibetan Plateau. Cross the spectacular Gampa La Pass (4,790m), where panoramic views of the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake unfold below. Considered one of Tibet’s holiest lakes, Yamdrok is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dramatic landscapes.
Continue across Karo La Pass (5,045m), passing beneath impressive glaciers before reaching the historic town of Gyantse. Visit Pelkor Chode Monastery and the famous Kumbum Stupa, one of Tibet’s most remarkable religious monuments.
The journey then continues through fertile agricultural valleys to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city.
Overnight in Shigatse.
Day 5: Drive Shigatse - Rongbuk Monastery (5,000m) | Approx. 340km (B)
After breakfast, visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama and one of Tibet’s most important monastic complexes.
Continue towards the Everest region, crossing Gyatso La Pass (5,220m) and Pang La Pass (approximately 5,150m). Weather permitting, enjoy your first panoramic views of Mount Everest (Chomolungma), Cho Oyu, Lhotse and Makalu.
Arrive at Rongbuk Monastery, dramatically situated beneath the towering north face of Mount Everest. The monastery offers some of the finest views of Everest available anywhere in Tibet. Overnight at Rongbuk.
Please note: Accommodation at Rongbuk is basic but provides an unparalleled Everest experience.
Day 6: Everest Base Camp (5,200m) and Drive to Sakya (4,050m) | Approx. 240km (B)
Rise early to witness sunrise over Mount Everest, a truly unforgettable Himalayan experience. Depending on local regulations and seasonal conditions, travel to Everest Base Camp Tibet by eco-bus and/or a short walk from the visitor centre.
From Everest Base Camp, enjoy extraordinary views of the north face of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan giants. After returning to Rongbuk for lunch, continue east towards Sakya.
Along the route, enjoy additional views of Everest, Lhotse and Makalu before arriving at Sakya Monastery. Famous for its distinctive grey, white and red architecture, Sakya Monastery houses an extensive collection of ancient Buddhist scriptures and artworks. If conditions permit, you may also observe the monks’ traditional debate sessions.
Overnight in Sakya.
Day 7: Drive Sakya - Lhasa (3,650m) | Approx. 430km (B)
Today return to Lhasa through the vast landscapes of central Tibet. Pass traditional farming communities, remote villages and sections of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, known internationally as the Brahmaputra.
Upon arrival in Lhasa, check into your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon for sightseeing, shopping or relaxation. This is an excellent opportunity to revisit the Barkhor area or simply soak up the atmosphere of Tibet’s historic capital.
Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 8: Fly Lhasa - Kathmandu (B)
After breakfast, transfer to Lhasa Airport for your return flight to Kathmandu. Enjoy a final opportunity to admire the Himalayan landscape from above before arriving back in Nepal, bringing your Tibet and Everest adventure to an end.
Please note: This itinerary is a guide only and may be adjusted due to weather conditions, road access, local regulations, group pace or operational requirements.
Note: All tours are lead by a professional tour guide
Additional Information
Visa requirements and fees vary depending on your nationality and country of residence. Please contact us or the relevant Chinese embassy or visa authority for the latest information.
Cost Includes
- 7-day private Tibet tour – fly in, fly out
- English speaking guide in Tibet
- Airport transfers for flights in Tibet
- Economy flight ticket Kathmandu – Lhasa – Kathmandu
- Tibet travel permit
- All in country transportation in private vehicles, in Nepal & Tibet
- 7 nights B&B guest house / 3* hotel accommodation in Tibet
- Meals as outlined in the itinerary
- Necessary permits and entrance fees in Tibet
- Government taxes
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu (if required)
- Visas for Nepal (if required)
- Insurance – insurance to include medical evacuation is mandatory
- Meals unless specified in the itinerary
- Personal expenses such as beverages, alcoholic drinks, gifts, laundry, etc.
- Sightseeing unless specified in the itinerary
- Tips
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests & their Tibetan partner
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FAQs for Tibet Everest Base Camp Tour
Can I visit Mount Everest from Tibet?
Yes. The northern side of Mount Everest can be visited from Tibet, including the Everest Base Camp area.
Do I need a special permit to visit Tibet?
Yes. Foreign travellers require permits and must follow specific entry and travel regulations. These requirements can change, so arrangements should be confirmed before booking.
What is the best time to visit Tibet?
Spring through autumn generally offers favourable conditions for travelling in Tibet, with relatively clear skies and comfortable daytime temperatures. Conditions vary considerably by altitude and region.
Is Tibet suitable for first-time travellers?
Yes, but altitude should be taken seriously. Many destinations in Tibet are at high elevation, so a gradual itinerary and sufficient time for acclimatisation are important.
Can I combine a Tibet tour with Nepal?
Yes. Nepal and Tibet can be combined into one journey, including overland routes through the Himalayas or flights between Kathmandu and Lhasa, depending on current travel arrangements.
What are the main places to visit in Tibet?
Popular itineraries include Lhasa, Shigatse, Kailash and the Everest region. Longer journeys can explore remote landscapes, monasteries and traditional Tibetan communities.



