Lhasa: 17-Day Tibet Tour with Everest Base Camp
If you’ve ever dreamed of standing at the foot of Mount Everest or exploring the mystic temples of Tibet, this 17-day tour offers an immersive journey through some of China’s most breathtaking landscapes and sacred sites. For $3,752 per person, you get a chance to explore Lhasa’s iconic Potala Palace, witness the lively debates of monks at Sera Monastery, and take in the grandeur of Everest Base Camp — all while traveling comfortably with a knowledgeable guide.
What we love about this tour is how it balances culture with stunning scenery. We especially appreciated the stop at Yamdrok Lake, where the reflections of the surrounding mountains are truly postcard-worthy. Plus, the chance to experience the kora around Mount Kailash — a spiritual circuit that’s both physically and emotionally rewarding — makes this trip stand out.
One possible consideration is the high altitude, which can be challenging for some travelers. We recommend paying extra attention to acclimatization and packing appropriate gear.
This tour is best suited for travelers who are curious about Tibetan culture, comfortable with some physical activity, and eager to see the world’s highest peaks and most sacred monasteries. It’s ideal for those who want a well-organized, authentic Tibet experience that goes beyond the usual tourist spots.
Key Points
- Cultural Highlights: Visit iconic sites like Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Tashilhunpo Monastery.
- Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Everest, Yamdrok Lake, and the Himalayas.
- Spiritual Experience: Participate in the kora around Mount Kailash, a profound pilgrimage for many.
- High Altitude: Expect some altitude adjustment, especially at Everest Base Camp and Kailash.
- Comfort and Convenience: Accommodation in star-rated hotels, reliable transportation, and an experienced guide.
- Authentic Encounters: Witness monk debates and local Tibetan life firsthand.
Exploring Tibet in Depth: A Practical Review
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First Impressions and Arrival in Lhasa
We start this journey in Lhasa, the heart of Tibet. The initial transfer from the airport or train station to the hotel gives you a brief taste of the city’s blend of ancient and modern. Spending your first night here is crucial — the altitude of 3,650 meters can hit you unexpectedly, so taking time to rest and acclimatize is highly recommended. The hotel comfort level and proximity to the city’s main sights make for a peaceful start.
Discovering Lhasa’s Sacred Heart
Your first full day includes visits to Sera Monastery, famous for monks debating Buddhist teachings with lively intensity. Watching these debates is a highlight, revealing a vibrant spiritual tradition in action. Next, Drepung Monastery offers a glimpse into Tibet’s monastic life, with its sprawling complex and impressive architecture.
In the evening, a welcome dinner at a local Tibetan restaurant provides a chance to sample traditional dishes and hear stories from your guide, who will likely be named Tashi or Dorje — both common and warm-hearted names.
The Potala Palace and Barkhor Street
No visit to Tibet is complete without touring the Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama and an architectural marvel perched high above the city. We loved the intricate details of this UNESCO World Heritage site, with its labyrinth of chambers, prayer halls, and stunning views of Lhasa.
Following this, a stroll through Barkhor Street immerses you in Tibetan daily life — bustling markets, prayer wheels, and pilgrims circling the Jokhang Temple. This area is lively, colorful, and spiritually charged, perfect for observing local customs.
More Great Tours NearbyJourney to Shigatse and Beyond
Leaving Lhasa, the tour takes you through some of Tibet’s most scenic landscapes. The drive to Shigatse takes about 7-8 hours, but it’s a scenic journey with key stops at Yamdrok Lake, where the water’s vibrant blue contrasts with snow-capped peaks, and the Karola Glacier, offering dramatic mountain views.
In Shigatse, Tashilhunpo Monastery — the seat of the Panchen Lama — provides a quieter, contemplative experience. We loved the atmosphere of this monastery, with its ancient murals and peaceful courtyards.
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Everest Base Camp: The Ultimate Highlight
The drive from Shigatse to Everest Base Camp (EBC) is about 6.5 hours but packed with visual treats. Along the way, you’ll see Shishapangma, a majestic peak, and Peku Co Lake with mirror-like surfaces reflecting the sky.
Reaching EBC at sunset is a real treat — the lighting on the mountains is stunning, and the atmosphere is charged with awe. Waking early for a sunrise view is even better; the sight of Everest in the early morning light is unforgettable. Although the altitude can be challenging, the experience of standing at the base of the world’s tallest mountain is worth every effort.
Rongbuk Monastery and the Path to Mount Everest
Next day, visiting Rongbuk Monastery, the highest in the world, adds a spiritual dimension to the Everest experience. The monastery’s simple, ancient structures sit dramatically against the glaciers and peaks. We loved the way it’s still a place of active worship and reflection, despite the tourist traffic.
From Rongbuk, you get a closer view of Everest’s north face, and many travelers take time to reflect on the mountain’s majesty.
The Trek to Mount Kailash
Continuing westward, you’ll cross the Himalayas and the Gangdise Mountains toward Tarchen, the starting point for the kora around Mount Kailash. Over three days, you’ll hike various sections of the circuit, experiencing high-altitude terrain, breathtaking vistas, and a deep sense of spiritual connection.
Many find this part physically demanding, but the sense of achievement and the spiritual significance make it worthwhile. The views of Lake Pheku and the distant peaks are particularly striking, providing perfect photo opportunities.
Visiting the Guge Kingdom and Ancient Ruins
Tarchen is also your gateway to exploring the Guge Kingdom ruins, with murals and structures that tell stories of an ancient civilization that thrived for 700 years. Visiting Tholing Monastery and the archaeological sites adds layers of history and mystery to the trip.
More Archaeology and Return Journey
The tour winds through sites like the East Tag Site and Zanda Buried Temple, each adding depth to Tibet’s long history. The route includes a scenic drive back to Saga, enjoying vast grasslands, lakes, and mountain views.
Final Days and Farewell to Everest
As the trip circles back toward Lhasa, passing through Jilong Valley, you’ll see lush forests and the lowest point in Tibet at 2,800 meters. Returning to Dingri, the last chance to glimpse Shishapangma and Cho Oyu offers stunning visuals before heading back to Lhasa.
In the final day, your guide will assist with the transfer to the airport or train, leaving you with memories of an extraordinary journey.
What Makes This Tour Valuable?
We found that the combination of iconic sites, stunning natural scenery, and spiritual experiences makes this tour stand out. For travelers who appreciate history and culture but also crave spectacular views, this trip offers a well-rounded package. The included accommodation, transportation, and guide services mean you’re well cared for, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than logistics.
The pricing seems reasonable considering the extensive itinerary and all included permits, tickets, and insurance. The tour also emphasizes authentic experiences — from witnessing monk debates to participating in a sacred kora — that deepen your understanding of Tibetan life.
However, do keep in mind the altitude challenges, especially at Everest Base Camp and Mount Kailash. Some travelers might find the physical demands or the high elevation a bit daunting, so this trip is best for those with a decent level of fitness and a willingness to adapt.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is ideal for adventure-minded travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone interested in experiencing Tibet’s spiritual side. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with some walking and altitude, and seek a comprehensive, well-organized trip that covers major highlights and off-the-beaten-path sites alike.
If you’re looking for a luxury experience or a very relaxed pace, you might find this trip a bit active, but for those eager to see the mountains, monasteries, and cultural sites firsthand, it hits the mark.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa or special permit for Tibet?
Yes. Travelers require a Tibet Travel Permit, which is arranged as part of this tour. You need to submit a passport copy and possibly additional documents depending on your nationality or travel situation.
Is the altitude a concern?
Yes. The tour involves high-altitude locations like Everest Base Camp and Mount Kailash, which can cause altitude sickness. Resting and acclimatizing are recommended, and the tour provides on-board medical oxygen support.
What is included in the price?
Included are permits, tickets for attractions, environmental car fees, accommodations, transportation, guide service, some meals like the welcome dinner and farmhouse lunch, and insurance.
What is not included?
Travel to Tibet (flights/train), single room surcharge, some meals, and optional porters or yaks in Mount Rinpoche are additional costs.
How physically demanding is the trip?
It involves some long drives, walking, and high-altitude hiking, especially around Mount Kailash. It’s best suited for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness.
Are meals provided?
Some meals are included — notably the farmhouse lunch and welcome dinner — but others are at your own expense, generally about 30-50 yuan per meal.
What should I pack?
Bring passport, warm clothing, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, camera, snacks, hiking shoes, water, and personal medications. Weather can be unpredictable, so layered clothing is advised.
Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
No. The itinerary involves physical activity at high elevations and uneven terrain, making it unsuitable for those with mobility or health concerns.
Can I extend my stay in Tibet?
Yes, but you’ll need to arrange additional permits and transportation separately.
Final Thoughts
This 17-day Tibet tour is a well-crafted journey that combines spectacular scenery, cultural sights, and spiritual experiences. It’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to see Everest, walk around Mount Kailash, and explore Tibet’s ancient monasteries—all while traveling comfortably and safely.
The experience offers a rare glimpse into a land of towering mountains and deeply rooted traditions. While the high-altitude parts require some physical stamina, the sense of achievement and the stunning views make it well worth it.
If you’re seeking an adventure that’s both eye-opening and soul-stirring, and you’re prepared for some altitude, this trip might just be the Tibet experience you’ve been dreaming of.
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