13-Day Tibet Flights & Qinghai-Tibet Railway: Lhasa, EBC., Nyingchi & Namtso
Classic Route
Details
Lhasa Arrival
Welcome to Tibet! Upon your arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station, your local guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel in downtown Lhasa.
During the transfer, enjoy your first views of the beautiful Lhasa River and the vast Tibetan Plateau. Once you’ve checked into the hotel, the rest of the day is reserved for acclimatization.
Lhasa sits at an elevation of approximately 3,650 meters, so we recommend taking it easy, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding strenuous activities. If you feel comfortable later in the evening, you may take a short walk to admire the illuminated Potala Palace from the outside.
Meals: Not Included
Accommodation: Taehf Phodrag Culture Theme Hotel or similar
Lhasa City Tour – Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street
After breakfast, begin exploring Tibet’s spiritual and cultural capital.
Your first destination is the magnificent Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas and the political as well as religious center of old Tibet. Rising high above the city, this UNESCO World Heritage Site houses priceless Buddhist relics, colorful murals, sacred scriptures, golden stupas, and countless historical treasures.
Later, visit the revered Jokhang Temple, the oldest and most sacred Buddhist temple in Tibet. Built during the Tubo Kingdom, it is home to the famous life-sized statue of the twelve-year-old Buddha Sakyamuni, which remains the most revered image among Tibetan Buddhists.
Outside the temple, stroll around the lively Barkhor Street, where local pilgrims perform their traditional kora while spinning prayer wheels. You’ll also find Tibetan handicrafts, traditional teahouses, and local shops that showcase everyday life in Lhasa.
Travel Tips
When visiting Tibetan monasteries, please remove hats and sunglasses before entering. Avoid smoking, touching religious statues, scriptures, prayer wheels that are not intended for visitors, or other sacred objects. Photography may be restricted inside certain temples, so always follow your guide’s instructions.
Meals: Breakfast Included
Accommodation: Taehf Phodrag Culture Theme Hotel or similar
Lhasa – Yamdrok Lake – Karola Glacier – Shigatse
Today you’ll leave Lhasa and travel across some of southern Tibet’s most spectacular scenery.
Your first stop is Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes. Famous for its brilliant turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrop, Yamdrok is regarded as one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the region. From the mountain viewpoint, you’ll enjoy sweeping panoramic views before descending closer to the lakeshore.
Continue toward the impressive Karola Glacier, where massive walls of ancient ice descend from the surrounding mountains almost to the roadside. The glacier is one of the most accessible in Tibet and offers an unforgettable glimpse into the region’s glacial landscape.
By late afternoon, arrive in Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama.
Meals: Breakfast Included
Accommodation: Shigatse Cangyu Yabu Hotel or similar
Shigatse – Tingri – Everest Base Camp – Basong Village
After breakfast, continue westward through the Himalayan region toward Mount Everest.
Travel via Lhatse and Tingri, crossing the spectacular Gyatso La Pass (5,220 m). Weather permitting, you’ll enjoy your first distant view of Mount Everest before entering the Mount Everest National Nature Reserve.
Visit Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world, where colorful prayer flags flutter beneath the towering north face of Everest. It is widely recognized as one of the finest viewpoints for admiring the mountain.
From there, board the environmental shuttle bus to Everest Base Camp (5,200 m). Standing before the highest mountain on Earth is an unforgettable experience and one of the true highlights of any Tibet journey.
After your visit, continue to Basong Village for the night.
Meals: Breakfast Included
Accommodation: Basong Village International Hotel
Basong Village – Mount Shishapangma – Peikutso Lake – Saga
After breakfast, continue your journey into the remote landscapes of western Tibet.
Leaving the Everest region behind, travel across the vast plateau while enjoying continuous views of snow-capped peaks and open grasslands. Along the route, admire Mount Shishapangma (8,013 m), the world’s 14th-highest mountain and the only 8,000-meter peak located entirely within China.
Your next stop is Peikutso Lake, a peaceful alpine lake lying beneath the towering Himalayan range. Its crystal-clear waters perfectly complement the surrounding mountains, making it one of the most photogenic lakes along the route to Ngari.
Continue driving across the sparsely populated plateau to Saga County, a gateway to western Tibet situated at an average elevation of more than 4,600 meters.
Surrounded by the Gangdise Mountains and the upper reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, Saga is famous for its untouched grasslands, grazing yaks, abundant sunshine, and vast wilderness that stretches as far as the eye can see.
Meals: Not Included
Accommodation: Saga International Hotel
Saga – Zhongba – Maquan River Wetland – Lake Rakshastal – Darchen
Today’s drive follows the famous G219 National Highway, one of China’s most scenic and adventurous roads.
Pass through Payang Town in Zhongba County, one of the highest towns on the Tibetan Plateau, before continuing across the expansive Maquan River Wetland, the source region of the Yarlung Tsangpo River.
As you approach Mount Kailash, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic.
Before reaching Darchen, stop at Lake Rakshastal, also known as the Ghost Lake. In Tibetan culture, this mysterious lake forms a striking contrast with nearby Lake Manasarovar. The deep blue water and barren mountains create an unforgettable landscape rich in legends and religious significance.
Arrive in Darchen, the traditional starting point for the sacred Mount Kailash pilgrimage.
Meals: Not Included
Accommodation: International Hotel in Darchen
Day 1 of Kailash Kora: Darchen – Drirapuk Monastery (Approx. 20 km: 6 km by eco-bus + 14 km trekking)
Early morning, take the eco-friendly shuttle bus from Darchen into the valley and prepare for the sacred pilgrimage trek (Kora) around Mount Kailash. In the valley, yaks, horses, and porters are available for hire to carry luggage (note: riding animals and porter services are not included in the tour price).
As you begin your trek, take deep breaths, find your rhythm, and walk into this spiritual landscape. Snow-capped mountains and blue skies accompany you, while streams wind their way through the valley. You will see the western and northern faces of Mount Kailash—towering, majestic, and awe-inspiring. After around 22 km of trekking, reach Drirapuk Monastery, where colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind. Rest here, surrounded by devotion and reverence for nature.
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Guesthouse at Drirapuk Monastery
Day 2 of Kailash Kora: Drirapuk — Dzultripuk Monastery (Approx. 20 km, full-day trekking)
After a night of rest, continue the pilgrimage. Today is the most challenging part of the Kora as you cross the Dolma-la Pass at 5,630 meters. Along the way, you may meet devoted Tibetan pilgrims performing full-body prostrations. The icy trail is slippery, with loose rocks tumbling down the slopes, a reminder of the hardships that pilgrims endure.
At the Dolma-la Pass, multicolored prayer flags dance in the wind. Below lies a small turquoise lake, Tuoji Lake, considered a sacred “Lake of Compassion,” shining like a piece of white jade among the mountains. After crossing the pass, the trail descends, easing the effort. Continue the trek to Dzultripuk Monastery, where you will spend the night.
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Guesthouse at Dzultripuk Monastery
Day 3 of Kailash Kora: Dzultripuk Monastery — Darchen — Zanda (Approx. 11 km: 7 km trekking + 4 km by vehicle)
On the third day of the circumambulation, as the altitude decreased, the color of the surrounding map gradually changed from snow-white to emerald green, and the small animals between the trees began to become active, full of a strong breath of life. Piles of Mani stones, colorfully placed between the snow-capped mountains and grasslands, seemed like monks praying attentively. After completing the last 10 kilometers of hiking, it was noon, and our tour bus had already been here to pick up friends who had completed the circumambulation, and then the bus headed to Zanda County.
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Local Hotel in Zanda
Zanda – Zanda Earth Forest – Guge Kingdom – Darchen
After breakfast, explore two of western Tibet’s most remarkable historical and natural attractions.
Begin with the spectacular Zanda Earth Forest, an extraordinary landscape shaped by millions of years of erosion. Towering clay formations, deep valleys, and dramatic cliffs create a scenery unlike anywhere else on the Tibetan Plateau.
Next, visit the legendary Guge Kingdom Ruins, one of Tibet’s most important archaeological sites. Built around the 10th century, the Guge Kingdom once flourished as the political, cultural, and religious center of western Tibet for more than 700 years.
Explore the remains of ancient palaces, temples, meditation caves, defensive walls, and underground passages while admiring centuries-old murals and Buddhist sculptures that have survived the passage of time. The mysterious disappearance of the Guge Kingdom remains one of Tibet’s greatest historical puzzles.
After the visit, return to Darchen for the night.
Meals: Not Included
Accommodation: International Hotel in Darchen
Darchen – Lake Manasarovar – Gongzhucuo – Saga
Leave Darchen in the morning and continue your journey through the sacred landscapes of western Tibet.
Your first highlight today is the world-famous Lake Manasarovar, regarded as one of the holiest lakes in Buddhism, Hinduism, Jainism, and Bon. Situated at an elevation of around 4,500 meters, the lake is celebrated for its exceptionally clear water and breathtaking setting beneath Mount Kailash and Mount Naimonanyi.
Pilgrims from around the world travel here to walk along the lakeshore, meditate, or perform religious rituals, believing the lake brings spiritual purification and blessings.
Continue driving across the Ngari Plateau and stop at Gongzhucuo, a beautiful alpine lake known for its peaceful surroundings and crystal-clear water. Often overlooked by visitors, it offers another excellent opportunity to appreciate Tibet’s untouched natural beauty.
Arrive back in Saga in the evening.
Meals: Not Included
Accommodation: Saga International Hotel
Saga – Peikutso Lake – Shigatse
Today’s journey retraces part of the scenic route through southern Tibet.
Along the way, stop once again at the beautiful Peikutso Lake, the largest inland lake within the Mount Everest Nature Reserve. Covering nearly 300 square kilometers at an altitude of approximately 4,590 meters, the lake is surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery and abundant wildlife.
On clear days, the snow-covered peak of Mount Shishapangma is beautifully reflected in the lake, creating one of the most iconic landscapes of western Tibet. Wild Tibetan antelopes, kiangs, cranes, and various waterbirds can often be spotted around the lakeshore.
After enjoying the scenery, continue eastward to Shigatse, where you’ll spend the night.
Meals: Not Included
Accommodation: Shigatse Cangyu Yabu Hotel
Shigatse – Jiegangri Sacred Mountain – Serling Tso – Baingoin
After breakfast, travel north toward the vast grasslands of northern Tibet.
The first stop is Jiegangri Sacred Mountain, a revered mountain in Tibetan culture. Its magnificent peaks and changing seasonal scenery have made it an important destination for local pilgrims, who believe the mountain possesses profound spiritual significance.
Continue to the magnificent Serling Tso (Selin Co), the largest lake in Tibet and the second-largest saltwater lake in China. Sitting at an elevation of approximately 4,530 meters, the lake stretches across an enormous area of over 2,000 square kilometers.
The surrounding wetlands form one of northern Tibet’s most important wildlife habitats, supporting black-necked cranes, bar-headed geese, Tibetan antelopes, Tibetan gazelles, wild yaks, kiangs, and many other plateau species.
The vast grasslands, endless lakes, and distant snow-capped mountains create one of the most spectacular landscapes in northern Tibet.
Arrive in Baingoin County in the evening.
Meals: Not Included
Accommodation: Bangor Lianyi Hotel
Baingoin – Namtso Lake – Nagenla Pass – Nyenchen Tanglha Range – Lhasa
Today you will visit another of Tibet’s most celebrated natural wonders.
Drive from Baingoin to Namtso Lake, one of Tibet’s Three Sacred Lakes and one of the world’s highest saltwater lakes, sitting at approximately 4,718 meters above sea level.
Explore the famous Tashi Peninsula, where crystal-clear water, colorful prayer flags, and snow-covered mountains combine to create unforgettable panoramic views. The peaceful atmosphere makes Namtso one of the most beloved destinations on the Tibetan Plateau.
After your visit, cross Nagenla Pass, where you can enjoy magnificent views of the Nyenchen Tanglha Mountain Range. According to Tibetan legend, Nyenchen Tanglha and Namtso are eternal lovers, making this region one of Tibet’s most sacred landscapes.
Continue driving back to Lhasa, bringing your incredible journey across western Tibet to a close.
Meals: Not Included
Accommodation: Taehf Phodrag Culture Theme Hotel or similar
Lhasa Airport Transfer
The pleasant trip to Tibet is over. The hotel includes breakfast in the morning. Our company will send guests to the airport or railway station based on their return train tickets or air tickets, and they will return to their warm home.
Meals: breakfast
Dates & Prices
| Month | Date | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr | 2026-04-20 | $ 1940 | Book now |
| May | 2026-05-10 | $ 1940 | Book now |
| 2026-05-20 | $ 1940 | Book now | |
| 2026-05-25 | $ 2235（ SAGA DAWA FESTIVAL） | Book now | |
| Jun | 2026-06-10 | $ 2095 | Book now |
| 2026-06-20 | $ 2095 | Book now | |
| Jul | 2026-07-10 | $ 2235 | Book now |
| 2026-07-20 | $ 2235 | Book now | |
| Aug | 2026-08-10 | $ 2235 | Book now |
| 2026-08-20 | $ 2235 | Book now | |
| Sep | 2026-09-10 | $ 2235 | Book now |
| 2026-09-20 | $ 2235 | Book now | |
| Oct | 2026-10-10 | $ 2095 | Book now |
| 2026-10-20 | $ 2095 | Book now |
You are consulting 2025-04-12 15-Day Mount Kailash Kora Tour: Lhasa, Everest Base Camp, Lake Manasarovar & Ngari
Fee Description
Friendly Tips
1. Departure Time: Daily departures usually begin between 6:30 AM and 8:00 AM, depending on driving distance and road conditions. Your guide will confirm the exact departure time the evening before.
2. Evening Activities: Sunset in Tibet is relatively late during summer. For your safety and proper acclimatization, avoid staying out too late and get adequate rest each evening.
3. Taxi Information: Taxis in downtown Lhasa are convenient and inexpensive. The starting fare is RMB 10, and most trips within the city center cost around the minimum fare.
4. Snacks: Driving distances in western Tibet can be long. We recommend bringing snacks, fruit, chocolate, and drinking water for the journey.
5. Dining: Lhasa offers the widest selection of restaurants during the trip, including Tibetan, Sichuan, and international cuisine. Dining choices become much more limited after leaving Lhasa.
6. Sun Protection: Tibet has intense ultraviolet radiation throughout the year. Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, and a sun hat are strongly recommended.
7. Clothing: Temperatures vary greatly between daytime and nighttime. Layered clothing, including a fleece or down jacket, is recommended. Long trousers are advisable throughout the tour. When visiting monasteries, please dress respectfully.
8. Altitude Adjustment: The Tibetan Plateau has significantly lower oxygen levels than low-altitude areas. Drink plenty of water, avoid overexertion, and allow yourself sufficient time to acclimatize. Traditional drinks such as butter tea or sweet tea may also help you stay hydrated.
9. Weather: Summer is Tibet’s rainy season, although rainfall usually occurs during the evening or overnight. Carrying a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella is recommended.
10. Itinerary Adjustments: For operational reasons, weather conditions, or attraction reservation schedules, the order of sightseeing may be adjusted while ensuring that all scheduled attractions are included.
11. Force Majeure: In the event of unexpected circumstances such as severe weather, road closures, landslides, traffic restrictions, or government regulations, we will make every effort to arrange suitable alternatives. Any additional expenses caused by these situations will be the responsibility of the traveler.
12. Early Tour Withdrawal: If a traveler chooses to leave the tour early due to personal reasons or altitude sickness, refunds will only be provided for unused accommodation and entrance tickets where applicable.
Fees Include:
1. Vehicle: 15-17-seat tourist vehicle.
2. Accommodation: Two people per standard room throughout the tour, with oxygen provided at hotels in Lhasa and Shigatse; two people per standard room in Ngari. Breakfast is not included at some hotels. Hotels of the same standard cannot be specified.
3. Tickets: Entrance Tickets: All sightseeings listed in the itinerary.
4. Tour Guide: Experienced Chinese/English/bilingual tour guides.
5. Tibet Travel Permit guaranteed.
6. Insurance: Travel agency liability insurance and vehicle Seat Insurance.
Complimentary:
- Welcome Hada at the airport/station;
- One bottle of mineral water per person per day;
- One 10L oxygen tank will be placed on the vehicle (if the 10L tank is used up, the guest will pay for it);
- Welcome Dinner and Everest Hotpot;
Fees Do Not Include：
- Please handle your personal expenses on your own.
- Some Breakfasts, Lunches and dinners.
- Gratuities: Tips for tour guides and drivers; tip as you wish.
- Single Room Supplement: Refers to the cost incurred when a traveller requests to stay alone in a room, or due to the absence of other travellers to share accommodation costs with.
- Round-trip Transportation: Flight and train tickets to Lhasa and back (booking service provided).
- Other Expenses: All expenses incurred by travellers due to breach of contract, personal fault, activities arranged independently during the trip, or personal illness not mentioned in the “Services Included” above.
Note: October 1-5 and Saga Dawa Festival (May 25-June 5) prices will charge according to peak season prices.
Hotel Reference:
Taehf PhodragCulture Theme Hotel
Shigatse Cangyu Yabu Hotel
