Day 1: Arrive in Lhasa

Welcome to Lhasa! Transfer to your hotel and get settled.

Day 2: Lhasa

In the morning, visit the Potala Palace, the greatest monumental structure in all of Tibet. The Potala is 13 stories high and holds countless treasures in its many rooms. Built in 637 AD, the Potala has been home to the Dalai Lama lineage for more than a thousand years. Also visit the Jokhang Temple, the holiest temple in all of Tibet. From the rooftop you will see pilgrims from all over Tibet prostrating in front to the Jowo Buddha statue inside the monastery. Afterwards, walk through the Barkhor, a famous shopping street filled with goods and souvenirs from Tibet, Nepal, and India. Spend some time drinking sweet tea in a traditional tea house located on a rooftop overlooking the bustling Barkhor.

Day 3: Lhasa

Visit the Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama. Explore the grounds, which include gardens, fountains, and a small zoo. Afterwards, visit Sera monastery, where you can watch monks debate in the courtyard. If you enjoy hiking, walk the hour-long circumambulation path around the monastery complex.

Day 4: Lhasa – Gyantse – Shigatse

Drive to Gyantse, a famous town in U-tsang, along the Kyichu River. On the Ganba La Pass (4796m) take in a fantastic view of the holy lake of Yamdrok Yumtso (4441m). Visit Gyantse Dzong, Pelkor Monastery and the Kumbum Stupa. Then continue to drive to Shigatse, the second largest city in Central Tibet and the seat of Panchen Lama.

Day 5: Shigatse – Old Tingri

In the morning drive to Old Tingri (4,350m, approx. 300km) over Tso-La (4500m) and Gyatso-La (5252m). On the way, if time permits, make an excursion to visit the fortress-like Sakya Monastery (4,280 m). In the afternoon arrive in Old Tingri and meet your crew.

Day 6: Trekking Old Tingri—Lungchang

Start trek along Ra Chu stream to beyond Choling and Lungchang villages (4350m). Camp overnight.

Day 7: Trekking Lungchang—Drokpa

Continue trek to Drokpa (4860m), an encampment below Lamna La. Camp overnight.

Day 8: Trekking Drokpa—Draka Chu

Cross over Lamna La (5075m) to Draka Chu River (4730m). Camp overnight.

Day 9: Trekking Draka Chu—EBC-Rongbuk

Trek up Draka Chu River to Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world. It is said that the Rongbuk Monastery had been built as early as the time of the Fifth Dalai Lama. Mount Everest, which stands 8,848 meters above sea level, will be seen on this last trekking day. Camp overnight.

Day 10: Rongbuk – Sheger (option to go to the Nepal border on this day)

Day 11: Drive from Sheger to Shigatse

In Shigatse, the ancient capital of central Tibet, visit the Shigatse Dzong, a castle fortress and former residence of the kings of Tsang. Originally built in the seventeenth century, its design served as the basis for the construction of the Potala Palace. From the fortress, take in beautiful views of the city.

Day 12: Shigatse-Lhasa

Once back in Lhasa, spend some time strolling through the alleys of the old Tibetan quarter and peeking into any workshops or stores that interest you. Take the opportunity to dine on local cuisine, revisit a favorite restaurant, or scout out a delicious place to have supper.

Day 13: Depart Lhasa

Say goodbye to Tibet!

Itineraries are subject to change without prior notice.