8 Days Lhasa to EBC Small Group Tour: Sera Monastery, Drepung Monastery , Yamdrok Lake, and Everest
NO.1
Details
Arrive in Lhasa: Airport / Train Station Pick-up & Hotel Check-in
Distance: 70 km (1 hr driving) from the airport; 20 km (20 min driving) from the train station | Meals: / | Accommodation: Taehf Phodrag Culture Theme Hotel / Similar
Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, the City of Sunlight, sitting at 3,650 meters on the Tibetan Plateau. Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station, our local Tibetan guide will greet you with your name sign and a Hada (the traditional Tibetan ceremonial scarf). Relax on the comfortable transfer to your downtown hotel, enjoying the first glimpses of the Yarlung Tsangpo River and the surrounding highland landscape. After check-in, the rest of the day is free for you to relax and acclimatize. A good rest on your first day will help your body adapt smoothly to Lhasa’s elevation.
TibetTrip Advice:
1. Free pick-up: Airport 08:00–22:00 | Train station 24 hrs.
2. Lhasa altitude: 3,600 m – rest well on arrival
3. Avoid strenuous activity, alcohol, and showers on Day 1
4. Drink plenty of water and eat light meals
5. Your guide is always available if you need help
Discover Lhasa – Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street
Distance: 4 km (0.5 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast, Tibetan Sweet Tea, Tibetan Welcome Dinner | Hotel: Taehf Phodrag Culture Theme Hotel / Similar
Today you’ll discover Lhasa’s most iconic landmarks.
Wake up to a bright day in Lhasa, where fluttering prayer flags and the sacred mountains set the tone for your exploration of Tibetan culture. Your morning begins at the Potala Palace, the majestic symbol of Tibet towering over the city. As you ascend the zigzag paths, you’ll be struck by the sheer scale and intricate architecture, blending traditional Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian influences. Inside, the White Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas, showcases elegant Tibetan craftsmanship, while the Red Palace houses sacred stupas and chapels that reflect centuries of spiritual devotion. Walking through the treasure halls, you’ll discover priceless relics and artworks that narrate Tibet’s profound history, giving you a deeper understanding of the city’s cultural heartbeat. This experience perfectly sets the stage for your afternoon visit.
After lunch, continue to the Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s most revered spiritual site, where pilgrims from across the plateau come to worship the Jowo Shakyamuni Buddha statue. Admire the golden roofs and intricate carvings that highlight the temple’s unique architectural blend, and feel the solemn yet vibrant atmosphere as devotees perform their kora around the sacred site.
Surrounding the temple is Barkhor Street, a lively thoroughfare where you can walk alongside pilgrims, observe local customs, and browse traditional Tibetan handicrafts. Tea houses, shops, and restaurants line the street, offering a taste of local cuisine and the everyday life of Lhasa’s residents. The combination of sacred temples and bustling streets provides a vivid snapshot of Lhasa’s spiritual and cultural essence.
Authentic Tibetan Cultural Experiences:
Afternoon Tea at the Foot of Potala Palace: : Take a break and unwind with our selection of coffee and Western pastries, right at the base of this iconic landmark.
Traditional Tibetan Costume Photoshoot: Dress up in exquisite, traditional Tibetan attire, complete with authentic hairstyles and makeup. A professional photographer will guide you through the historic alleys of Barkhor Street, capturing stunning memories against the iconic backdrop of red walls and prayer wheels.
Evening: Welcome & Celebration
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.
Overnight in Lhasa.
Tibet Trip Notice:
Potala Palace visits are subject to daily entry limits and timed admission.
Potala Palace
Jokhang Temple
Lhasa to Shigatse: Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier
Distance: 360 km (8 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: Shigatse Cangyu Yabu Hotel / Similar
Today, you leave Lhasa and journey across the Tibetan plateau, entering one of the most scenic sections of southern Tibet, where holy lakes, glaciers, and ancient towns unfold along the way.
Morning: Yamdrok Lake & Gampala Pass
Drive to Gampala Pass (4,900m) for your first glimpse of Yamdrok Lake, one of the three holy lakes of Tibet.
1. Panoramic Viewpoint: Witness the lake’s striking blue-green waters winding through snow-capped mountains
2. Sacred Belief: Tibetans believe Yamdrok Lake is the “Life Lake” that protects the region
3. Photography Stop & Yak Ride: Capture unforgettable photos and, optionally, take a short yak ride along the lakeshore
Afternoon: Karola Glacier
Continue along the Friendship Highway to witness Karola Glacier, dramatic glacier descending directly from the Nyenchen Tanglha Range.
1. Close-Up Glacier View: One of the few glaciers in Tibet visible right beside the road
2. Everlasting Ice: Observe massive ice walls and crevasses shaped by time
3. High-Altitude Landscape: Feel the raw power of Tibet’s frozen world
After soaking in the serene atmosphere, continue the drive to Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. Check in at your hotel and rest for the night.
Karola Glacier Tourist
Shigatse to Everest Base Camp: Gyatso La, Gyawu La, Sunset at Everest
Distance: 340 km (8 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast, Tibetan Hotpot | Hotel: Rongbuk Hotel or Vienna International Hotel
Start your morning at Tashilhunpo Monastery, the historic and spiritual seat of the Panchen Lamas. As you explore this sprawling complex, you will come face-to-face with its crowning jewel: a magnificent, 26-meter-tall gilded statue of the Maitreya (Future) Buddha—celebrated as one of the largest seated Buddha statues in Tibet.
Later, begin your westward journey toward the mighty Mount Everest. Along the way, you will have multiple opportunities to admire the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes and catch spectacular views of the world’s highest peak.
First glimpse at Gyatsola Pass (5,280m): Shortly after departing Shigatse, stop at Gyatsola Pass viewpoint. Here, you’ll catch your first view of Mount Everest, peeking through the surrounding peaks like a budding lotus flower—a gentle yet captivating introduction to the giant ahead.
Second glimpse at Gawula Pass (5,198m): Entering the Mount Everest National Nature Reserve, enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas at Gawula Pass. This viewpoint offers a stunning line-up of the five highest peaks, with Everest at the forefront—your second encounter with the majestic mountain.
Third glimpse on the zigzag road to EBC: As you approach Everest Base Camp along the newly constructed zigzag road, the colossal white pyramid gradually unfolds before you. Each turn reveals more of the northern face, giving you a third perspective of Everest in all its grandeur.
Fourth glimpse at Everest Base Camp (5,200m): Upon arrival at the Base Camp, stand in awe of the towering peak. At dusk, watch the sunlight cast a golden glow across Everest’s northern face—an unforgettable fourth view of the world’s highest mountain.
Tibetan Hotpot: Savor an authentic, steaming Tibetan hotpot inside the cozy room. It is the perfect, hearty high-altitude meal to keep you warm and replenish your energy on the plateau.
Accommodation Options
Choose your preferred stay based on your comfort level and sightseeing goals for the following morning:
Everest Base Camp Tent Guesthouse: Double-bed rooms without private shower, public toilet only. Offers the most authentic local experience and allows you to view the magnificent Everest sunrise from up close.
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.
TibetTrip Notice:
Visibility of Mount Everest’s North Face depends on weather conditions; night temperatures are very low and bring warm clothing.
Rongbuk Monastery
EBC
Everest Base Camp to Shigatse: Mt. Everest Sunrise
Distance: 340 km (8 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: Shigatse Cangyu Yabu Hotel / Similar
Wake up early at Everest Base Camp to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Mount Everest (weather permitting). As the first rays of sunlight touch the towering peak, the golden glow illuminates the northern face, creating a magical high-altitude spectacle. After sunrise, descend and return to Shigatse, enjoying the highland landscapes along the way.
Mount Everest
Mount Everest
Shigatse – Tashilhunpo Monastery – Lhasa
Distance: 280 km (5 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: Taehf Phodrag Culture Theme Hotel / Similar
Start your day with a visit to Tashilhunpo Monastery, one of the most important religious sites in Tibet and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama.
Tashilhunpo Monastery Highlights
1. Qamba Buddha Hall: Marvel at the tallest and largest bronze statue of Qamba Buddha, a masterpiece of Tibetan Buddhist artistry.
2. Stupa Hall of the Tenth Panchen Lama: Standing at 11.55 meters tall, this magnificent stupa is adorned with 614 kg of gold and precious gemstones. According to legend, the remains of the Tenth Panchen Lama rest atop the stupa, making it a sacred site for pilgrims.
After your monastery visit, drive back to Lhasa, check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening.
Overnight in Lhasa.
TibetTrip Advice:
Photography may be restricted inside some halls; follow the guide’s instructions.
Tashilhunpo Monastery
Tashilhunpo Monastery
Lhasa to Namtso and Back: Namtso Lake, Northern Tibet Grasslands
Distance: 500 km (10 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: Taehf Phodrag Culture Theme Hotel / Similar
Today features an epic journey to Namtso Lake, one of the three most sacred lakes in Tibet and a breathtaking natural wonderland nestled high on the northern plateau.
Morning to Afternoon: Journey Across the Roof of the World & Namtso Exploration
Namtso Lake (Heavenly Lake) – One of the highest saltwater lakes in the world (4,718m), celebrated for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrops:
Northern Tibet Grasslands (Changtang): Drive across the vast, open plains of northern Tibet. Pass along scenic sections of the famous Qinghai-Tibet Highway, where you can spot grazing herds of yaks and sheep and glimpse the traditional nomadic lifestyle.
Nyainqentanglha Mountain Range: Enjoy sweeping, distant views of these magnificent snow-capped peaks that stand as sacred guardians over the northern plateau.
Nagenla Pass (5,190m): Cross this high-altitude mountain pass, offering your very first breathtaking panoramic view of Namtso Lake shimmering in the distance.
Namtso Lake Shoreline: Arrive at the holy lake to walk along its pristine shores. Marvel at the striking contrast of the deep blue waters against the snow-covered mountains, capturing some of the most spectacular landscape photos on the Tibetan Plateau.
Late Afternoon: Return to Lhasa
Namtso Lake
Namtso Lake
If winter snowstorms block the high-altitude Nagenla Pass (5,190m) making Namtso Lake inaccessible, your itinerary will automatically switch to an immersive cultural day inside Lhasa city, combining unique spiritual traditions with hands-on local crafts.
Morning: Visit to Zaki Temple
Zaki Temple (Zhaji Temple) – The only temple in Tibet dedicated to the Goddess of Wealth:
Unique Spiritual Experience: Pay a morning visit to this lively, unique temple. Unlike other monasteries, pilgrims here traditionally offer barley wine and white khatas to the protector deity, Zhari Lhamo, to pray for good fortune and prosperity.
Local Religious Life: Walk among local merchants and residents to observe one of the most vibrant, authentic, and distinct local religious customs in Lhasa.
Afternoon: Traditional Tibetan Incense Workshop
Handicraft Experience – Dive into the ancient art of Tibetan Incense making (UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage):
Artisan Workshop: Visit a traditional Tibetan incense workshop to learn about the history and natural ingredients—such as saffron, sandalwood, and unique highland herbs—used in this sacred craft.
DIY Incense Making: Under the guidance of a local master, try your hand at grinding the materials and using the traditional horn-shaped tools to roll your own incense sticks.
Cultural Souvenir: Take your handmade Tibetan incense home with you as a deeply meaningful, aromatic keepsake of your time on the roof of the world.
Overnight in Lhasa.
Lhasa Departure: Transfer to Airport or Train Station
Distance: 70 km (1 hr driving) to the airport; 20 km (30 min driving) to the train station | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: /
Your Tibet adventure comes to an end today.
After breakfast at the hotel, your guide and driver will transfer you to either Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station according to your departure schedule.
Thank you for choosing Tibet Yulong. We hope your Tibetan adventure leaves lasting memories, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future!
Tashi Delek and safe travels!
Dates & Prices
| Month | Date | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug | 2026-08-15 | $ 1100 | Book now |
| 2026-08-20 | $ 1100 | Book now | |
| 2026-08-25 | $ 1100 | Book now | |
| 2026-8 | $ 1324 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| Sep | 2026-09-05 | $ 1100 | Book now |
| 2026-09-10 | $ 1100 | Book now | |
| 2026-09-15 | $ 1100 | Book now | |
| 2026-09-20 | $ 1100 | Book now | |
| 2026-09-25 | $ 1100 | Book now | |
| 2026-9 | $ 1324 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| Oct | 2026-10-05 | $ 1028 | Book now |
| 2026-10-10 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| 2026-10-15 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| 2026-10-20 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| 2026-10-25 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| 2026-10 | $ 1177 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| Nov | 2026-11-05 | $ 1028 | Book now |
| 2026-11-10 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| 2026-11-15 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| 2026-11-20 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| 2026-11-25 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| 2026-11 | $ 1100 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| Dec | 2026-12-05 | $ 928 | Book now |
| 2026-12-10 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| 2026-12-15 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| 2026-12-20 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| 2026-12-25 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| 2026-12 | $ 1100 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now | |
| Jan | 2027-1 | $ 1100 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now |
| 2027-01-05 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| 2027-01-10 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| 2027-01-15 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| 2027-01-20 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| 2027-01-25 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| Feb | 2027-2 | $ 1100 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now |
| 2027-02-05 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| 2027-02-10 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| 2027-02-15 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| 2027-02-20 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| 2027-02-25 | $ 928 | Book now | |
| Mar | 2027-3 | $ 1177 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now |
| 2027-03-05 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| 2027-03-10 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| 2027-03-15 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| 2027-03-20 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| 2027-03-25 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| Apr | 2027-4 | $ 1177 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now |
| 2027-04-05 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| 2027-04-10 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| 2027-04-15 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| 2027-04-20 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| 2027-04-25 | $ 1028 | Book now | |
| May | 2027-5 | $ 1177 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now |
| Jun | 2026-6 | $ 1177 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now |
| Jul | 2026-7 | $ 1324 (6‑Person Airline‑Style Seat Bus Group-Contact) | Book now |
You are consulting 2025-04-12 8 Days Classic Tibet Tour with Everest Base Camp, Yamdrok Lake & Namtso Lake
Fee Description
Discount:
1.) Group Discoount: $50 off for those booking the tour together with 4 or 4 above in total at the same time; $99 off for those booking the tour together with 8 or 8 above in total at the same time.
2.) Early Bird Discount: $15 off for those booking the tour 2 months in advance. $30 off for those booking the tour 4 months in advance. $45 off for those booking the tour 6 months in advance. $60 off for those booking the tour 8 months in advance. $75 off for those booking the tour 10 months in advance.
3.) The two discounts mentioned above can be enjoyed simultaneously.
Tour Inclusions
Transportation: Comfortable 9–17 seat tourist vehicle throughout the journey. Airport or railway station transfers in Lhasa.
Accommodation: Carefully selected 4-star hotels or equivalent standard accommodations. Oxygen-equipped hotels in designated high-altitude destinations. Accommodation standards may vary slightly depending on availability.
Entrance Fees: Admission tickets to all attractions listed in the itinerary.
Meals: Daily hotel breakfast. Complimentary Tibetan Welcome Dinner. Complimentary Everest Base Camp Hot Pot Dinner.
Professional Guide Service: Experienced English-speaking, Chinese-speaking, or bilingual local guides.
Permits: Tibet Travel Permit processing and arrangement.
Insurance: Travel agency liability insurance. Vehicle seat insurance.
Complimentary Extras: Potala Palace afternoon tea experience. Portable oxygen supply. One bottle of drinking water per person per day.
Tour Exclusions
International & Domestic Transportation: Flights or train tickets to and from Lhasa. Ticket booking assistance is available upon request.
Meals Not Specified: Lunches and dinners not mentioned in the itinerary.
Personal Expenses: Laundry, telephone charges, beverages, shopping, and other personal expenditures.
Tips: Gratuities for guides and drivers are not mandatory but are appreciated for good service.
Single Supplement: Additional charge for travelers requesting a private room or when no roommate is available.
Additional Costs: Expenses resulting from personal activities, itinerary changes requested by travelers, force majeure events, or medical treatment. Any services not specifically listed under “Tour Inclusions.”
