Himalayan Journey

Journey through the Himalayas, traveling from Lhasa to Mount Everest and onward to the Nepal border. Begin in the Tibetan capital by exploring the countless rooms of the grand Potala Palace, receiving a blessing from the Jowo Buddha at the sacred Jokhang Temple, and bartering with locals at the lively Barkhor market. At the edges of the Lhasa valley, visit the renowned Drepung Monastery and watch the monks engage in their famous debates at Sera Monastery. Continue your adventure with a drive to the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake before heading to Gyantse and the impressive giant Buddha of Shigatse.

The journey then takes you deeper into the Himalayas. Travel to Mount Everest, hike up to Base Camp, and visit Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world. From there, drive along the Himalayan ranges toward the Nepal border, where sweeping views of towering peaks await—Mt. Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), Cho Oyu (8,201m), and Shishapangma (8,027m). Along the way, stop at Peikutso, a breathtaking alpine lake set in the wild landscapes of far western Tibet.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Lhasa [3658m]

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

View of the Potala Palace  from Jokhang Temple

Day 2: Lhasa Exploration

Visit Drepung Monastery, one of the three most famous monasteries in Lhasa. Drepung is located just outside Lhasa on Gambo Utse Mountain. Once home to as many as 10,000 monks, the enormous monastic complex features many prayer halls, dormitories, and temples. Just below the monastery is the Nechung Temple, the former home of the state oracle. 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.

Sera Monastery debate Courtyard

Day 3: Lhasa Exploration

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, located in Barkhor Square in Lhasa. The Barkhor is a famous shopping street filled with goods and souvenirs from Tibet, Nepal, and India. Pilgrims from all over Tibet visit the Barkhor to pray in front of the Jokhang. From the roof of the monastery, you will have a view of prostrating pilgrims. Afterwards, visit Ramoche, a small monastery located in the city center. If time allows, explore the alleys of the Tibetan quarter and visit traditional workshops and handicraft stores.

Day 4: Lhasa-Yamdrok Yumtso Lake-Karo-la Glacier-Gyantse [3950m], 268km, 5.5 hours

Beginning your adventure in the Himalayas, drive to Gyantse. Along the way, cross over the Kamba-La (4794m) and Karo-La passes (5010m), which boast spectacular views. After Kamba-La, arrive at Yamdrok Lake, a holy turquoise-colored lake with stunning scenery. Stay the night in Gyantse.

Yamdrok Yumtso Lake

Day 5: Gyantse-Shigatse [3836m], 90km, 1.5 hours

In the morning, visit the Pelkor Chode Kumbum and Gyantse Monastery followed by a two-hour drive to Shigatse. Here, see the giant Buddha in the famous Tashilhunpo Monastery. If time allows, join pilgrims in walking the long circumambulation path around the monastery, or explore the city streets. Spend the night in Shigatse.

Tashilhunpo Monastery

Day 6: Shigatse-Rongbuk Monastery (4980m) – View of Mount Everest, 370km, 8 hours

In the morning, drive further west to the Himalayas. Along the way, we will drive through Tso-La pass (4500m) and Gyatso-La pass (5252m), where you will have a great view of Mt. Everest and other mountains of the Himalayan range. After passing through scenic valleys and driving over rocky mountains, we will reach Rongbuk (Rongphu) Monastery, where we will have a fabulous view of Mt. Everest. Rongbuk Monastery is the highest monastery in the world. It is worth doing a small kora (circumambulation) around the monastery, making amazing photos of Mt. Everest. Spend the night near the Rongbuk Monastery (or in Old Tingri depending on availability).

Road to Mount Everest

Day 7: Rongbuk Monastery or Old Tingri – View of world’s highest mountains – Peikutso Lake – Kyirong [4200m], 310km, 7 hours

Witness the mesmerizing sunrise over Mount Everest before embarking on a scenic drive along the majestic Himalayan ranges. Prepare to be awe-struck as you pass by iconic peaks such as Mt. Lhotse (8516m), Makalu (8485m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8201m), and Mt. Shishapangma (8027m).

Mount Everest from Rongbuk Monastery

A true highlight awaits as you visit the crystal-clear Peikutso Lake, nestled in the heart of the wilderness. Ascend to the breathtaking Gongtang La pass at an impressive altitude of 5300m/17,400ft. From there, a dramatic descent takes you through lush green forests, leading you to the vibrant town of Kyirong. Situated near the Nepal-China border, Kyirong surprises with its ample accommodations, money exchange services, banks, and a variety of Nepalese, Chinese, and international restaurants. Explore the town’s intriguing attractions, and if time permits, visit the charming Pakpa Monastery. Tonight, relish your stay in the enchanting town of Kyirong.

Peikutso Lake on the way to Nepal border

Day 8: Kyirong – Nepal border – cross the border

Today, we drive 23km to the China customs from Kyirong town. Once at the border, cross over, pass through immigration, and continue on to Kathmandu. Say goodbye to Tibet!

China Customs Building at Kyirong

The itinerary can be condensed to a 7-day duration.

Itineraries are subject to change without prior notice.

Tour Map