12-Day Lhasa EBC Kailash Kathmandu Tour Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa: Airport / Train Station Pick-up & Hotel Check-in
Distance: 70 km (1 hr driving) from airport; 20 km (30 mins) from train station | Meals: Self-arranged | Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa (3,650m)
Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, the spiritual and cultural heart of Tibet. Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station, your CHIBET Travel Tibetan guide and driver will welcome you with a traditional white Hada scarf.
Transfer to your hotel in central Lhasa, driving along the scenic Yarlung Tsangpo River. Dedicate the remainder of the day to quiet rest and altitude acclimatization. Avoid strenuous walking, alcohol, and hot showers on your first evening.
Overnight in Lhasa.
CHIBET Travel Advice:
- Free Pickup Service: Airport transfers available 08:00–22:00; Train station transfers available 24 hours.
- Altitude Care: Mild headaches or fatigue are common on Day 1. Drink plenty of water and rest in your hotel room.
Day 2: Lhasa City Tour: Drepung Monastery & Sera Monastery Debates
Distance: 10 km | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa (3,650m)
Spend your first full day in Lhasa exploring two of Tibet’s most prestigious monastic institutions.
Morning: Drepung Monastery
After breakfast, visit Drepung Monastery at the foot of Mount Gambo Utse. Once the world’s largest monastery housing over 10,000 monks, Drepung served as the administrative center and main seat of the Dalai Lamas before the Potala Palace was built.
Afternoon: Sera Monastery Monk Debates
In the afternoon, proceed to Sera Monastery. The highlights here are the energetic Monk Debates held daily in the shaded courtyard (3:00 PM – 4:30 PM). Observe monks using expressive hand-clapping and physical gestures to defend and challenge Buddhist philosophical texts.
Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 3: Lhasa Highlights: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street
Distance: 4 km | Meals: Breakfast, Tibetan Sweet Tea, Tibetan Welcome Dinner | Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa (3,650m)
Today is dedicated to the core historical and spiritual landmarks of Lhasa.
Morning: Potala Palace
Ascend the stone steps of the iconic Potala Palace, soaring above the Lhasa Valley. Explore the White Palace (administrative quarters) and the Red Palace (chapels, sacred stupas, and golden tombs of past Dalai Lamas).
Afternoon: Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street Circuit
Visit Jokhang Temple, the ultimate spiritual destination for Tibetan pilgrims, housing the revered 12-year-old life-sized statue of Jowo Shakyamuni. Afterward, walk clockwise along Barkhor Street alongside devoted locals spinning prayer wheels.
Authentic Tibetan Cultural Experiences:
- Tibetan Sweet Tea Time: Relax at a bustling local tea house in the old town, sipping hot sweet tea alongside Lhasa residents.
- Traditional Tibetan Dress Photoshoot: Dress in authentic Tibetan robes with traditional styling for professional photography along Barkhor’s historic stone alleys.
- Tibetan Welcome Dinner: Gather in the evening for a festive welcome feast featuring authentic local Tibetan specialties and warm hospitality.
Overnight in Lhasa.
CHIBET Travel Notice:
Potala Palace visits are subject to strict daily entry quotas and fixed passport security windows. Your guide will coordinate the exact daily entry time.
Day 4: Lhasa to Shigatse via Yamdrok Lake & Karola Glacier
Distance: 360 km (8 hrs driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Hotel in Shigatse (3,840m)
Depart Lhasa early and drive southwest toward Shigatse along the scenic Friendship Highway.
Highlights Today:
- Yamdrok Lake & Gampala Pass (4,900m): Take in sweeping panorama views of Yamdrok Lake’s brilliant turquoise waters set against Mount Nyenchen Khangsar.
- Karola Glacier: View the colossal ice tongue of Karola Glacier cascading down right beside the highway.
Continue through Gyantse town and arrive in Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, by late afternoon.
Overnight in Shigatse.
Day 5: Shigatse to Everest Base Camp via Gyatso La & Gyawu La Pass
Distance: 340 km (8 hrs driving) | Meals: Breakfast, Tibetan Yak Hotpot | Accommodation: EBC Tent Guesthouse / Vienna International Hotel / Rongbuk Monastery Hotel (5,200m)
Today you will leave Shigatse and journey toward the roof of the world, entering the Mount Everest National Nature Reserve for an unforgettable night at Everest Base Camp.
Morning: High Mountain Passes & Panoramic Views
After breakfast, depart Shigatse and climb over Gyatso La Pass (5,280m), where you may catch your first distant glance of Mount Everest framed by fluttering prayer flags. Continue past security checkpoints into the Everest Reserve and ascend the famous winding roads to Gyawu La Pass (5,198m). From this world-class viewpoint, admire an extraordinary panoramic vista of the Himalayan range, including five 8,000-meter giants: Makalu, Lhotse, Everest, Cho Oyu, and Shishapangma.
Afternoon & Evening: EBC Sunset & Starlight
Drive down the thrilling zigzag mountain road directly toward Everest Base Camp (5,200m). As you approach, the sheer North Face of Mount Everest gradually fills the horizon. Upon arrival, marvel at the vast, snow-covered pyramid standing right before you. At dusk, watch the setting sun paint the peak in brilliant golden hues (Golden Peak). After darkness falls, witness the luminous Milky Way arching directly over Mount Everest—a paradise for stargazers and photographers.
Evening Dining: Authentic Himalayan Yak Hotpot
Gather inside the warm, felt-lined communal tent room to enjoy a steaming Tibetan Yak Meat Hotpot. Packed with fresh local yak meat and vegetables, this hearty meal is designed to keep you warm and replenish your energy at 5,200 meters.
Accommodation Options at Everest:
- EBC Local Tent Guesthouse: Dormitory/twin-bed tent setups with central stove heating (public toilets outside, no private showers). Offers the most authentic local atmosphere and immediate access to sunrise views over Mount Everest.
- Vienna International Hotel (Tingri): Located in Tingri County town (approx. 1.5–2 hours’ drive from EBC). Features modern facilities, private bathrooms, and higher comfort, though staying here means departing EBC before sunset or missing the early morning sunrise.
- Rongbuk Monastery Hotel Upgrade: Situated right next to the historic Rongbuk Monastery (the highest monastery in the world) with direct views of Everest. Offers private room options with seasonal price surcharges—please consult your CHIBET Travel specialist for availability.
CHIBET Travel Notice:
- Weather & Visibility: Visibility of Mount Everest’s North Face depends entirely on mountain weather conditions. Clear skies are most common during autumn, winter, and spring.
- Extreme High Altitude & Cold: Night temperatures at EBC drop well below freezing year-round. Ensure windproof down jackets, warm beanies, gloves, and personal thermal gear are kept in your carry-on daypack.
Day 6: Everest Base Camp to Saga via Mt. Shishapangma & Lake Peiku Tso
Distance: 370 km (8 hrs driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Hotel in Saga (4,480m)
Rise early to witness the morning golden sunrise over the snow-capped peak of Mount Everest.
Depart base camp and drive west along the northern Himalayan border toward Saga. Along the highway, pass Mount Shishapangma (8,027m) and the turquoise waters of Pelkhu Tso Lake (4,591m).
Arrive in Saga by evening and check into your hotel to rest.
Overnight in Saga.
Day 7: Saga to Darchen: Lake Mansarovar & First Views of Kailash
Distance: 490 km (8 hrs driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Hotel in Darchen (4,670m)
Drive west across the open steppe of the Ngari Plateau along the Saga Valley between the Gangdise and Himalayan mountain ranges.
Cross Mayum La Pass (5,211m) and catch your first glimpse of sacred Lake Mansarovar and the distinct dome peak of Mount Kailash. Continue to Darchen at the base of the mountain to organize trekking equipment and rest.
Overnight in Darchen.
CHIBET Travel Notice:
If you require extra porters, yaks, or riding horses for the 3-day Kailash Kora, inform your CHIBET Travel guide today so bookings can be finalized in Darchen.
Day 8: Kailash Kora Day 1: Darchen to Dirapuk Monastery
Distance: 6 km eco-bus; 13 km trekking (5–6 hrs) | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Dirapuk Monastery Guesthouse (Shared dorms, 4,920m)
Board the eco-bus from Darchen to Sarshung Valley to begin your 52 km Mount Kailash Kora.
Sacred Landmarks Today:
- Tarboche Flagpole & Yam Dwar: Walk through the sacred two-legged stupa gateway into the Lha Chu Valley.
- Choku Monastery: View ancient cliffside shrines along the valley floor.
- Dirapuk Monastery: Reach your guesthouse positioned directly opposite Mount Kailash’s magnificent, sheer North Face.
Overnight at Dirapuk Monastery Guesthouse.
Day 9: Kailash Kora Day 2: Dirapuk to Zutulpuk via Dolma La Pass
Distance: 22 km trekking (8–10 hrs) | Meals: Self-arranged | Accommodation: Zutulpuk Monastery Guesthouse (Shared dorms, 4,820m)
Today is the most physically challenging segment of the pilgrimage circuit.
Morning: Ascent to Dolma La Pass
Ascend steadily from Dirapuk up steep rocky slopes to reach Dolma La Pass (5,630m), the highest elevation on the entire tour. Take photos surrounded by thousands of fluttering prayer flags left by local pilgrims.
Descent: Gauri Kund & Valley Walk
Descend past the emerald waters of Gauri Kund (Lake of Compassion) and walk down into the Dzong Chu Valley, arriving at Zutulpuk Monastery (built around Milarepa’s meditation cave).
Overnight at Zutulpuk Monastery Guesthouse.
CHIBET Travel Advice:
Trails around Dolma La Pass can be icy. Wear sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support and keep trekking poles ready for the steep descent.
Day 10: Kailash Kora Day 3: Zutulpuk to Darchen, Drive to Saga
Distance: 6.5 km trekking; 4.5 km eco-bus; 344 km driving to Saga (6 hrs) | Meals: Self-arranged | Accommodation: Hotel in Saga (4,480m)
Complete the final 6.5 km easy downhill trek from Zutulpuk to Zongto. Take the eco-bus back to Darchen, concluding your 52 km sacred Kailash Kora!
Meet your driver and vehicle in Darchen and begin the drive back east toward Saga, enjoying final views of Lake Mansarovar along the route.
Overnight in Saga.
Day 11: Saga to Gyirong Valley: Transition to the Subtropics
Distance: 344 km (6 hrs driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Hotel in Gyirong Town (2,800m)
Depart Saga and drive south toward the Nepalese border. Descend from the high, dry Tibetan plateau into lush Gyirong Valley, where arid mountain landscapes give way to dense pine forests, deep gorges, and waterfalls.
Overnight in Gyirong Town.
Day 12: Gyirong Border Exit to Kathmandu
Distance: 40 km to border; 130 km to Kathmandu (6–9 hrs total driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: None
After breakfast, take a short 40 km drive to Gyirong Port (Resuo Bridge). Your CHIBET Travel Tibetan guide and driver will assist with Chinese exit formalities.
Cross the Resuo Bridge into Rasuwagadhi, Nepal. Meet your pre-arranged Nepalese transfer team for the scenic mountain drive to Kathmandu, concluding your spectacular Trans-Himalayan overland adventure.
Tashi Delek and safe travels from CHIBET Travel!
CHIBET Travel Notice:
Nepal-side cross-border transfer from Rasuwagadhi border to Kathmandu can be pre-arranged as an add-on service. The driving time on Nepalese mountain roads typically takes 6 to 9 hours depending on weather and local road conditions.
12-Day Lhasa EBC Kailash Kathmandu Tour Date and Package Price
Lhasa EBC Kailash Kathmandu Tour Cost (Based on Travel Time)
| Travel Time / Tour Price | Apr., May., Jun. | Jul., Aug., Sept., Oct. |
|---|---|---|
| 1 pax | $2200 | $2350 |
Note: A single room supplement applies to solo travelers who request a private room.
2026 Lhasa EBC Kailash Kathmandu Tour Departures and Bookings
| Arrival Date | Booked | Book Now |
|---|---|---|
| Aug. 2026 | ||
| 2026-08-10 | $2350 | Book |
| 2026-08-20 | $2350 | Book |
| Sept. 2026 | ||
| 2026-09-10 | $2350 | Book |
| 2026-09-20 | $2350 | Book |
| Oct. 2026 | ||
| 2026-10-10 | $2350 | Book |
| 2026-10-20 | $2350 | Book |
| Apr. 2027 | ||
| 2027-04-10 | $2200 | Book |
| 2027-04-20 | $2200 | Book |
| May. 2027 | ||
| 2027-05-10 | $2200 | Book |
| 2027-05-20 | $2200 | Book |
| Jun. 2027 | ||
| 2027-06-10 | $2200 | Book |
| 2027-06-20 | $2200 | Book |
Lhasa EBC Kailash Kathmandu Tour Inclusions:
- 1. Tibet Permits: Tibet Travel Permit, Aliens’ Travel Permit, Military Area Entry Permit, etc.
- 2. Transportation: 9-17 seat tourist vehicle.
- 3. Accommodation:
8 nights in twin-sharing rooms (4-star standard in Lhasa and Shigatse, 3-star standard in other places);
1 night in EBC Tent Guesthouse (multi-bed sharing) or Vienna International Hotel (4-diamond standard);
1 night in Dirapuk Monastery Guesthouse (multi-bed sharing);
1 night in Zutulpuk Monastery Guesthouse (multi-bed sharing);
Note: All domestic hotel star and diamond ratings listed follow Ctrip’s standard classification. - 4. Meals: Breakfasts in hotel, 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, Everest Base Camp + Eco-bus, Lake Mansarovar, Mount Kailash + 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)
Lhasa EBC Kailash Kathmandu Tour Exclusions:
- 1. Personal Expenses: Laundry, drinks, phone calls, optional activities (Lhasa Traditional Handicraft Center, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery, Tibetan Village, etc.)
- 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)
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