8-Day Tibet Small Group Tour: Lhasa, EBC., Yamdrok Lake & Monasteries
Classic monastery tour
Details
Arrive in Lhasa by plane or by train
Lhasa train station/ airport picking up. You will be warmly greeted by our local guide and driver, transfer you to reserved hotel in Lhasa. Today is your first day in Lhasa, so have a good rest to acclimate the high altitude.
Overnight in Lhasa
Travel Tips:
- Complimentary airport transfers are available between 08:00 and 22:00, while train station transfers are provided 24 hours a day.
- It is normal to experience mild altitude symptoms, such as headaches, tiredness, or slight nausea, during the first couple of days.
- To acclimatize more comfortably, get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, smoking, and hot showers for the first 2–3 days.
- Stay well hydrated and enjoy light, balanced meals to help your body adjust to the high altitude.
- If you experience any discomfort, don’t hesitate to speak with your tour guide or hotel staff, who will be happy to assist you.
Tibetan tour guide greets you at Lhasa Airport.
Lhasa Sightseeing: Drepung Monastery/Sera Monastery
Spend the day exploring two of Lhasa’s most important monasteries, where centuries of Tibetan Buddhist history, culture, and learning continue to thrive.
After breakfast, head to Drepung Monastery, once regarded as the largest monastery in the world. Founded in the 15th century, it was formerly the residence of the Dalai Lamas before the Potala Palace became their official seat. At its height, the monastery was home to over 10,000 monks, making it one of the most influential centers of Tibetan Buddhism.
In the afternoon, continue to Sera Monastery, another of Lhasa’s renowned Gelug monasteries. One of the highlights of the visit is the traditional monk debate, typically held between 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM (except on special occasions). During the session, monks exchange Buddhist teachings through animated discussions, accompanied by distinctive hand claps and expressive movements—a fascinating tradition that has been practiced for centuries.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight at Lhasa
Sera Monks Debate
Lhasa Sightseeing: Potala Palace/Jokhang Temple/Barkhor Street
In the morning, you will visit the Potala Palace, the highest ancient palace complex in the world, the residence of the Dalai Lamas and the centre of political and religious power in Tibet. It contains golden stupas that house the real bodies of the Dalai Lamas of all generations and a large number of precious murals, thangkas, and Buddha statues, which are the concentrated embodiment of Tibetan culture.
After lunch, you will visit the Jokhang Temple, the earliest Buddhist temple built during the Tubo Dynasty. The temple enshrines a twelve-year-old life-size statue of Sakyamuni that accompanied Princess Wencheng into Tibet. It is the most sacred and efficacious Buddha statue in the hearts of the Tibetan people. Here, you can not only see the piety of local residents in worship, but also follow them around the Barkhor Street to pray for all living beings.
Tibetan Welcome Dinner: In the evening, gather for a grand welcome feast to celebrate your arrival in Tibet. Savor authentic local delicacies and enjoy warm Tibetan hospitality and festive music.
Meals: Breakfast: Included Lunch: Not included Dinner: Complimentary Tibetan Welcome Dinner
Overnight at Lhasa
Potala Palace
Jokhang Temple
Lhasa/Yamdrok lake/Karola Glacier/Shigatse
After breakfast, depart from Lhasa and begin your scenic drive toward Shigatse. Crossing Gampala Pass (4,900 m), you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes. Its brilliant turquoise waters, surrounded by snow-covered mountains and traditional Tibetan villages, create one of the plateau’s most iconic landscapes. You’ll have time to stop at the lakeshore to admire the scenery and capture memorable photos.
Continue westward to Karola Glacier, where an immense wall of ancient ice descends dramatically from the mountainside. As one of Tibet’s most accessible glaciers, it offers an impressive contrast to the surrounding grasslands and rugged peaks.
After visiting these spectacular natural attractions, continue your drive to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, where you’ll check into your hotel for the night.
Distance: 360 km (8 hr driving). Long driving day; be prepared for high-altitude travel.
Meals: Breakfast Included
Overnight in Shigatse
Yamdrok Lake
Yamdrok Lake
Shigatse to EBC/Tashilhunpo Monastery/Gyatso La/Gyawu La
Begin your day with a visit to Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional residence of the Panchen Lamas and one of Tibet’s most important monasteries. While exploring its impressive halls and chapels, don’t miss the monastery’s most famous treasure—a 26-meter-tall gilded statue of Maitreya Buddha, recognized as one of the largest seated Buddha statues in Tibet.
After the monastery visit, continue west toward Mount Everest, passing through spectacular Himalayan scenery. Throughout today’s journey, you’ll enjoy several outstanding viewpoints of the world’s highest mountain.
First View of Everest – Gyatsola Pass (5,280 m)
Not long after leaving Shigatse, stop at Gyatsola Pass, where Mount Everest first comes into view. Rising gently above the surrounding peaks, the summit resembles a blooming lotus, offering your first memorable glimpse of this legendary mountain.
Second View of Everest – Gawula Pass (5,198 m)
After entering the Mount Everest National Nature Reserve, arrive at Gawula Pass, one of the best panoramic viewpoints in the Himalayas. From here, you’ll enjoy an incredible vista of five towering 8,000-meter peaks, with Mount Everest standing proudly at the center.
Third View of Everest – Road to Everest Base Camp
Continue along the winding mountain road leading to Everest Base Camp. As the vehicle climbs each switchback, Everest’s magnificent north face gradually comes into full view, offering yet another spectacular perspective of the world’s highest summit.
Fourth View of Everest – Everest Base Camp (5,200 m)
Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, stand beneath the towering peak and admire its extraordinary scale. As evening approaches, the setting sun bathes the northern face of Everest in warm golden light, creating one of the most unforgettable moments of the entire journey.
Evening Dining: Tibetan Yak Hotpot
After a rewarding day exploring the Himalayas, enjoy a hearty Tibetan yak hotpot for dinner. Served piping hot in a cozy setting, this traditional meal is an ideal way to warm up and recharge after a full day at high altitude.
Meals: Breakfast Included
Vienna International Hotel: Offers a much better environment and more comfortable accommodation conditions, though staying here means you will miss the Everest sunrise due to its location.
Upgrading to Rongbuk Hotel: The absolute best hotel for viewing Mount Everest. Upgrading to this hotel requires paying a price difference; prices fluctuate by season, so please consult us for specific rates.
Gyawu La Pass
Rongbuk Monastery and Mount Everest
EBC/Mount Shishapangma/Pelkhu Tso Lake/Gyirong Town
Rise before dawn to experience the unforgettable sunrise over Mount Everest. As the morning sunlight gradually illuminates the mountain’s northern face, the world’s highest peak glows in brilliant shades of gold, creating one of the most breathtaking sights in the Himalayas.
After enjoying the sunrise, depart for Gyirong, traveling through some of western Tibet’s most spectacular landscapes. Along the route, you’ll visit:
Mount Shishapangma (8,027 m): The only 8,000-meter peak located entirely within Tibet, Shishapangma is renowned for its vast glaciers and commanding presence. Its snow-covered summit dominates the surrounding landscape, making it an excellent place for photography.
Pelkhu Tso Lake (4,591 m): Continue to the tranquil waters of Pelkhu Tso, where the shimmering lake and the surrounding snow-capped mountains create a stunning high-altitude panorama. The peaceful scenery and vivid colors make this one of the most picturesque stops of the day.
Meals: Breakfast Included
Overnight in Gyirong Town
Sunrise of Everest
Gyirong Border Town
Gyirong Town/Gyirong Border/ Kathmandu
Today marks the end of your Tibet adventure. After breakfast, your Tibetan guide and driver will accompany you to the Gyirong Border, where you’ll complete the border crossing and continue your journey into Nepal. Before leaving Tibet, enjoy one last drive through the beautiful Gyirong Valley, a peaceful Himalayan valley known for its rich greenery and spectacular mountain scenery.
Gyirong Valley: Surrounded by forests, rivers, and rolling hills, this scenic valley offers a refreshing contrast to Tibet’s high plateau. Along the way, you’ll pass traditional Tibetan villages and lush landscapes, making it a wonderful opportunity to enjoy your final views of Tibet and capture a few last memorable photos.
Thank you for traveling with TibetTrip. We hope you’ve had an unforgettable experience in Tibet and look forward to welcoming you again on another journey in the future.
Travel Note: Transportation from Gyirong Border to Kathmandu is not included in the tour price. If required, TibetTrip can assist with arranging the transfer in advance. Vehicle service to Kathmandu is available at an additional cost, and local Nepali staff will be available at the border to help coordinate your onward journey.
Dates & Prices
| Month | Date | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug | 2026-08-15 | $ 1130 | Book now |
| 2026-08-20 | $ 1130 | Book now | |
| 2026-08-25 | $ 1130 | Book now | |
| Sep | 2026-09-05 | $ 1130 | Book now |
| 2026-09-10 | $ 1130 | Book now | |
| 2026-09-15 | $ 1130 | Book now | |
| 2026-09-20 | $ 1130 | Book now | |
| 2026-09-25 | $ 1130 | Book now | |
| Oct | 2026-10-05 | $ 1130 | Book now |
| 2026-10-10 | $ 1130 | Book now | |
| 2026-10-15 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2026-10-20 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2026-10-25 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| Nov | 2026-11-05 | $ 1026 | Book now |
| 2026-11-10 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2026-11-15 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2026-11-20 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2026-11-25 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| Dec | 2026-12-05 | $ 939 | Book now |
| 2026-12-10 | $ 939 | Book now | |
| 2026-12-15 | $ 939 | Book now | |
| 2026-12-20 | $ 939 | Book now | |
| 2026-12-25 | $ 939 | Book now | |
| Jan | 2027-01-05 | $ 939 | Book now |
| 2027-01-10 | $ 939 | Book now | |
| 2027-01-15 | $ 939 | Book now | |
| 2027-01-20 | $ 939 | Book now | |
| 2027-01-25 | $ 939 | Book now | |
| Feb | 2027-02-05 | $ 1026 | Book now |
| 2027-02-10 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2027-02-15 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2027-02-20 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2027-02-25 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| Mar | 2027-03-05 | $ 1026 | Book now |
| 2027-03-10 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2027-03-15 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2027-03-20 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2027-03-25 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| Apr | 2027-04-05 | $ 1026 | Book now |
| 2027-04-10 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2027-04-15 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2027-04-20 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2027-04-25 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| May | 2027-05-05 | $ 1026 | Book now |
| 2027-05-10 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2027-05-15 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2027-05-20 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| 2027-05-25 | $ 1026 | Book now | |
| Jun | 2027-06-05 | $ 1130 | Book now |
| 2027-06-10 | $ 1130 | Book now | |
| 2027-06-15 | $ 1130 | Book now | |
| 2027-06-20 | $ 1130 | Book now | |
| 2027-06-25 | $ 1130 | Book now | |
| Jul | 2027-07-05 | $ 1130 | Book now |
| 2027-07-10 | $ 1130 | Book now | |
| 2027-07-15 | $ 1130 | Book now | |
| 2027-07-20 | $ 1130 | Book now | |
| 2027-07-25 | $ 1130 | Book now |
You are consulting 2025-04-12 7 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Group Tour with Mt.Everest & Yamdrok Lake
Fee Description
Services Included
1. Tibet Permits: Tibet Travel Permit
2. Transportation: 9-17 seat tourist vehicle
3. Accommodation: 5 nights in twin-sharing rooms (4-star standard); 1 night in EBC Tent Guesthouse (multi-bed sharing) or Vienna International Hotel
4. Meals: 5 breakfasts in hotel, 1 breakfast in restaurant, Tibetan Sweet Tea, Tibetan Welcome Dinner, Tibetan Yak Hotpot at EBC
5. Guide: Professional English-speaking local Tibetan guide
6. Entrance Tickets: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier, Tashilhunpo Monastery, Everest Base Camp + Eco-bus
7. Oxygen and Water: 1 bottle of portable oxygen for emergencies; 4L medical oxygen cylinder in the car; 1 bottle of 300ml drinking water per person per day
8. Travel Insurance: Travel agency liability insurance, Vehicle seat insurance
9. Service Fees: All taxes, fees, and handling charges; reservation fee for visiting Potala Palace; lodging and dining subsidies for guide and driver
10. Pick-Up and Drop-Off: Free pick-up at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (8:00 am to 10:00 pm); Free drop-off at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (8:30 am to 10:30 pm); Free pick-up and drop-off at Lhasa Train Station (24 hours)
Services Excluded
1. Personal Expenses: Laundry, drinks, phone calls, optional activities
2. Single Room Supplement (if requested)
3. Meals: Lunch and dinner not mentioned in the itinerary
4. Tickets: International and domestic flight/train tickets
5. Tipping: Tips for guides and drivers
6. China Visa: Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa) application fees
7. Exceptional Events: Extra charges due to irresistible reasons (e.g., weather, road closures)
