12-Day Chengdu to Lhasa Train Tour to Everest Base Camp
Tibet Train
Details
Arrive in Chengdu
Arrive in Chengdu Tianfu International Airport according to your flight schedule. After landing, make your own way to the hotel for check-in and enjoy a relaxing evening before your Tibet adventure officially begins.
Meals: Breakfast: Not Included | Lunch: Not Included | Dinner: Not Included
Accommodation: Tianfu International Hotel or similar
Chengdu – Xining – Qinghai-Tibet Railway
Take a morning flight from Chengdu to Xining. Upon arrival, transfer to the railway station and board the world-famous Qinghai-Tibet Railway in a comfortable soft sleeper compartment.
As the train climbs onto the Tibetan Plateau, you’ll begin experiencing one of the world’s most spectacular railway journeys. Relax overnight on board and prepare for unforgettable scenery the following morning.
Reference Flight
Sichuan Airlines 3U6341 (Economy Class)
09:10 Chengdu Tianfu T2
10:40 Xining Caojiabao T2
Reference Train
Z8991 / Y971 / Z22 (Soft Sleeper)
Meals: Breakfast: Included | Lunch: Not Included | Dinner: Not Included
Accommodation: Soft Sleeper on Qinghai-Tibet Railway
Arrive in Lhasa
Upon arriving in Lhasa, your guide will meet you at the railway station and escort you directly to your hotel.
The rest of the day is reserved for altitude acclimatization. We recommend taking it easy, avoiding strenuous activity, and allowing your body time to adjust to the elevation. A quiet afternoon at the hotel is the best preparation for the days ahead.
Meals: Breakfast: Not Included | Lunch: Not Included | Dinner: Not Included
Accommodation: Taehf Phodrag Culture Theme Hotel or similar
Discover Lhasa: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street
Today you’ll explore the cultural heart of Tibet.
Begin with the magnificent Potala Palace, the world’s highest ancient palace complex and the former residence of successive Dalai Lamas. Wander through its impressive halls filled with sacred Buddhist relics, colorful murals, ancient scriptures, exquisite thangkas, and magnificent golden stupas that preserve centuries of Tibetan history.
Afterwards, continue to Jokhang Temple, the holiest Buddhist temple in Tibet. Built during the Tubo Kingdom, it houses the revered twelve-year-old Jowo Shakyamuni statue brought to Tibet by Princess Wencheng.
Complete your sightseeing with a leisurely stroll around Barkhor Street, where local pilgrims circle the temple while spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras. The surrounding streets are also perfect for browsing Tibetan handicrafts, local cafés, and traditional teahouses.
Travel Note
Potala Palace admission is strictly controlled by advance reservation, and visiting times vary daily. Your sightseeing order may therefore be adjusted according to the official ticket schedule. Photography is prohibited inside the palace, and all visitors must pass a security inspection before entering.
Meals: Breakfast: Included | Lunch: Not Included | Dinner: Complimentary Tibetan Welcome Dinner
Accommodation: Taehf Phodrag Culture Theme Hotel or similar
Lhasa – Basum Tso – Nyingchi
Leave Lhasa behind and journey east toward Nyingchi, following the beautiful Nyang River through spectacular mountain scenery.
Cross the Mila Pass (5,013 m) before descending into the lower-altitude forests of eastern Tibet. Along the way you’ll pass traditional Tibetan villages, fertile valleys, and picturesque riverside landscapes with plenty of opportunities for photography.
In the afternoon, visit the breathtaking Basum Tso Lake, widely regarded as one of Tibet’s most beautiful alpine lakes. Encircled by dense forests and snow-covered peaks, its crystal-clear waters have earned it the nickname “Little Switzerland of Tibet.” Explore the peaceful island in the middle of the lake and admire the scenery from various viewpoints before continuing to Nyingchi.
Known in Tibetan as the Throne of the Sun, Nyingchi offers a noticeably milder climate and lush vegetation that contrasts beautifully with central Tibet.
Meals: Breakfast: Included | Lunch: Not Included | Dinner: Not Included
Accommodation: Kaiyuan Mingting Hotel Nyingchi or similar
Nyingchi – Mount Namcha Barwa – Lulang Forest – Nyingchi
After breakfast, drive toward Lulang, a picturesque town about two hours from Nyingchi. The route climbs over Sejila Mountain Pass (4,515 m), one of the finest viewpoints for admiring Mount Namcha Barwa, the highest peak in eastern Tibet. If weather conditions are favourable, you’ll enjoy spectacular panoramic views of its snow-covered summit.
Continue into the famous Lulang Forest, whose name translates as “Dragon King Valley” or “Place Where Gods Live” in Tibetan. Endless spruce forests blanket the surrounding mountains while peaceful alpine meadows below are dotted with grazing yaks and sheep, creating one of Tibet’s most charming pastoral landscapes.
At lunchtime, enjoy a complimentary serving of Nyingchi Stone Pot Chicken, a well-known local specialty slowly simmered in traditional stone cookware, giving the soup its distinctive rich flavour.
Return to Nyingchi in the afternoon for an overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast: Included | Lunch: Not Included | Dinner: Complimentary Nyingchi Stone Pot Chicken
Accommodation: Kaiyuan Mingting Hotel Nyingchi or similar
Nyingchi – Kading Valley – Lhasa
Depart Nyingchi after breakfast and visit Kading Valley, home to the impressive Heavenly Buddha Waterfall.
The valley is famous for its dramatic cliffs, dense virgin forests, rushing streams and towering waterfall, which plunges nearly 200 metres into the gorge below. One of its most remarkable natural features is a rock formation that resembles the face of a Buddha, giving the waterfall its unique name. Throughout the valley you’ll also notice naturally formed shapes resembling Buddhist figures, adding to the area’s spiritual atmosphere.
After exploring this scenic canyon, retrace your route westward and return to Lhasa through the beautiful Nyang River Valley.
Meals: Breakfast: Included | Lunch: Not Included | Dinner: Not Included
Accommodation: Taehf Phodrag Culture Theme Hotel or similar
Lhasa – Yamdrok Lake – Karola Glacier – Shigatse
Today marks the beginning of your overland journey toward Everest.
Leaving Lhasa, travel across the magnificent Tibetan Plateau before reaching the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes. From the surrounding mountain passes, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the winding shoreline and brilliant blue waters stretching beneath snow-capped peaks.
Continue through Gyantse, where you’ll see the famous Kumbum Stupa from a distance before passing the spectacular Karola Glacier. Flowing almost to the roadside, this ancient glacier provides one of the closest glacier viewing experiences in Tibet.
Later in the day, arrive in Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lamas.
Meals: Breakfast: Included | Lunch: Not Included | Dinner: Not Included
Accommodation: Shigatse Cangyu Yabu Hotel or similar
Shigatse – Tingri – Everest Base Camp
Today’s drive follows the historic Friendship Highway toward the Himalayas.
As you head west, vast grasslands, winding rivers and towering mountain ranges accompany the journey. After passing Tingri, the road gradually climbs into Qomolangma National Nature Reserve.
On clear days, you’ll have opportunities to admire several Himalayan giants exceeding 8,000 metres, including:
- Mount Everest (8,848 m)
- Mount Lhotse (8,516 m)
- Mount Cho Oyu (8,201 m)
- Mount Makalu (8,463 m)
Continue to Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world, before taking the eco-bus to Everest Base Camp (5,200 m). Standing beneath the world’s highest mountain is a truly unforgettable experience, especially as the changing light transforms Everest’s magnificent north face throughout the afternoon.
In the evening, enjoy a complimentary Mount Everest Hot Pot Dinner before spending the night at Rongbuk.
Meals: Breakfast: Included | Lunch: Not Included | Dinner: Complimentary Mount Everest Hot Pot
Accommodation: Rongbuk Hotel (Oxygen Supply) or similar
Everest Base Camp – Tingri – Shigatse
Rise early to witness one of the highlights of the journey—the sunrise over Mount Everest. As the first rays of sunlight illuminate the summit, the snow-covered peak glows with changing shades of gold and pink, creating a truly unforgettable spectacle.
After breakfast, you may choose to take the eco-bus back from Everest Base Camp or enjoy an optional trek of approximately 1.5–2 hours to fully appreciate the surrounding Himalayan landscape. Later, begin the return drive via Tingri and continue along the Friendship Highway back to Shigatse.
Meals: Breakfast: Included | Lunch: Not Included | Dinner: Not Included
Accommodation: Shigatse Cangyu Yabu Hotel or similar
Shigatse – Tashilhunpo Monastery – Lhasa
Before returning to Lhasa, visit the renowned Tashilhunpo Monastery, one of the six major monasteries of the Gelug School of Tibetan Buddhism and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lamas.
Founded in 1447, the monastery is home to magnificent assembly halls, centuries-old Buddhist murals, and the impressive 26-metre-tall gilded Maitreya Buddha, one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world. The peaceful atmosphere and rich religious heritage make it an essential stop on any Tibet journey.
After the visit, drive back to Lhasa, enjoying the changing landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau along the way.
Meals: Breakfast: Included | Lunch: Not Included | Dinner: Not Included
Accommodation: Taehf Phodrag Culture Theme Hotel or similar
Lhasa – Namtso Lake – Northern Tibet Grassland – Lhasa
Today’s excursion takes you north across the vast Northern Tibetan Grasslands to visit the breathtaking Namtso Lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes.
Travel along the Qinghai-Tibet Highway before ascending Nagenla Pass (5,190 m), where spectacular panoramic views of the lake and the snow-covered Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains await. Sitting at an elevation of 4,718 metres, Namtso is the world’s highest saltwater lake and is often referred to as the “Heavenly Lake.”
Spend time walking along the lakeshore, where crystal-clear waters mirror the surrounding mountains. The peaceful scenery, colorful prayer flags, grazing yaks, and endless blue sky combine to create one of Tibet’s most iconic landscapes.
Return to Lhasa in the evening after another memorable day on the plateau.
Meals: Breakfast: Included | Lunch: Not Included | Dinner: Not Included
Accommodation: Taehf Phodrag Culture Theme Hotel or similar
Departure from Lhasa
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to Lhasa Gonggar International Airport or Lhasa Railway Station, depending on your onward travel arrangements.
If flying, the journey to the airport takes approximately one hour (around 60 km).
Your unforgettable Tibet adventure comes to an end today. We hope the spectacular landscapes, rich Tibetan culture, and warm local hospitality leave you with lasting memories. Tashi Delek, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Tibet in the future.
Meals: Breakfast: Included | Lunch: Not Included | Dinner: Not Included
Accommodation: Not Included
Dates & Prices
| Month | Date | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2026-01-05 | $ 1760 | Book now |
| 2026-01-10 | $ 1760 | Book now | |
| 2026-01-15 | $ 1760 | Book now | |
| 2026-01-20 | $ 1760 | Book now | |
| 2026-01-25 | $ 1760 | Book now | |
| 2026-1 | $ 1910 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| Feb | 2026-02-05 | $ 1760 | Book now |
| 2026-02-10 | $ 1760 | Book now | |
| 2026-02-15 | $ 1760 | Book now | |
| 2026-02-20 | $ 1760 | Book now | |
| 2026-02-25 | $ 1760 | Book now | |
| 2026-2 | $ 1910 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| Mar | 2026-03-05 | $ 1850 | Book now |
| 2026-03-10 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-03-15 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-03-20 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-03-25 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-3 | $ 2010 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| Apr | 2026-04-05 | $ 1850 | Book now |
| 2026-04-10 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-04-15 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-04-20 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-04-25 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-4 | $ 2010 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| May | 2026-05-05 | $ 1850 | Book now |
| 2026-05-10 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-05-15 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-05-20 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-05-25 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-5 | $ 2010 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| Jun | 2026-06-05 | $ 1850 | Book now |
| 2026-06-10 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-06-15 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-06-20 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-06-25 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-6 | $ 2010 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| Jul | 2026-07-05 | $ 2060 | Book now |
| 2026-07-10 | $ 2060 | Book now | |
| 2026-07-15 | $ 2060 | Book now | |
| 2026-07-20 | $ 2060 | Book now | |
| 2026-07-25 | $ 2060 | Book now | |
| 2026-7 | $ 2190 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| Aug | 2026-08-05 | $ 2060 | Book now |
| 2026-08-10 | $ 2060 | Book now | |
| 2026-08-15 | $ 2060 | Book now | |
| 2026-08-20 | $ 2060 | Book now | |
| 2026-08-25 | $ 2060 | Book now | |
| 2026-8 | $ 2190 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| Sep | 2026-09-05 | $ 2060 | Book now |
| 2026-09-10 | $ 2060 | Book now | |
| 2026-09-15 | $ 2060 | Book now | |
| 2026-09-20 | $ 2060 | Book now | |
| 2026-09-25 | $ 2060 | Book now | |
| 2026-9 | $ 2190 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| Oct | 2026-10-05 | $ 1850 | Book now |
| 2026-10-10 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-10-15 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-10-20 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-10-25 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-10 | $ 2010 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| Nov | 2026-11-05 | $ 1850 | Book now |
| 2026-11-10 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-11-15 | $ 1850 | Book now | |
| 2026-11-16 | $ 1760 | Book now | |
| 2026-11-20 | $ 1760 | Book now | |
| 2026-11-25 | $ 1760 | Book now | |
| 2026-11 | $ 1910 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| Dec | 2026-12-05 | $ 1760 | Book now |
| 2026-12-10 | $ 1760 | Book now | |
| 2026-12-15 | $ 1760 | Book now | |
| 2026-12-20 | $ 1760 | Book now | |
| 2026-12-25 | $ 1760 | Book now | |
| 2026-12 | $ 1910 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now |
You are consulting 2025-04-12 13-Day Tibet Flights & Qinghai-Tibet Railway: Lhasa, EBC., Nyingchi & Namtso
Fee Description
Services Included:
- Transportation: Flights from Chengdu to Xining and from Lhasa to Chengdu, the soft sleeper from Xining to Lhasa, and 9-17 seater tour vehicle (drivers and tolls included).
- Accommodation: Four-star hotels or above throughout the tour. Hotels of the same standard cannot be specified.
- Entrance Tickets: All sightseeings listed in the itinerary.
- Breakfast: Daily breakfast at hotels.
- Guide: Experienced Chinese/English/bilingual tour guides.
- Tibet Travel Permit guaranteed.
- Insurance: Travel agency liability insurance and vehicle Seat Insurance.
- Complimentary: Tibetan dinner, Nyingchi stone pot chicken, Mount Everest hot pot, coffee at Potala Palace, portable oxygen, one bottled water per person per day.
Services Excluded:
Personal Expenses: Any personal purchases or optional activities not specified in the itinerary.
Meals: Lunches and dinners unless otherwise stated.
Gratuities: Tips for the guide and driver are optional but appreciated.
Single Supplement: Additional charge applies for guests requesting a private room or when no roommate is available.
Additional Transportation: International flights, domestic flights or train tickets not specifically listed in the “Tour Includes” section. Ticket booking assistance is available upon request.
Other Expenses: Costs resulting from personal reasons, itinerary changes initiated by the traveler, illness, force majeure, or any services not explicitly mentioned under “Tour Includes.”
Hotel Reference:
Taehf PhodragCulture Theme Hotel
Shigatse Cangyu Yabu Hotel
Tianfu International Hotel
Kaiyuan Mingting Hotel in Nyingchi
Kaiyuan Mingting Hotel in Nyingchi
Kaiyuan Mingting Hotel in Nyingchi
Rongbu Hotel
Soft sleeper on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway
