Tibet family tour: Everest base camp

Welcome to Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet and a modern utopia. Your friendly Tibetan guide and drivers shall eagerly wait to greet you at Lhasa Gonggar Airport. Upon arrival, you'll receive a traditional white Khada and a refreshing drink during a brief welcome ceremony. Relax and let our team handle your luggage as you enjoy the scenic ride to your hotel in Lhasa city. Your guide will assist with check-in and share the next day's travel plans. Enjoy a comfortable stay at one of Lhasa's luxury hotels, preparing for an exciting tour tomorrow.

Begin your journey at the majestic Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Climb the grand steps for breathtaking views of the city and explore the White Palace and the religious chambers in the Red Palace, including the gilded burial stupas of past Dalai Lamas.

After lunch, visit Jokhang Temple, Lhasa’s holiest Buddhist site. In its dimly-lit rooms, you'll hear the hum of Buddhist chants and see locals adding butter oil to lamps. Don’t miss the life-size statue of the 12-year-old Buddha Sakyamuni. Outside, join Tibetan pilgrims in the famous Barkhor kora. Shop for unique souvenirs along Barkhor Street, then relax in a local teahouse with sweet tea and local delicacies. End your day with a lively welcome banquet featuring traditional Tibetan dancing, singing, and delicious Tibetan dishes, making your night in Lhasa unforgettable.

Begin your day with a visit to Drepung Monastery, the largest Gelugpa monastery, just 8km west of central Lhasa. Enjoy a scenic hike, marvel at the enormous religious painting on the rock, explore the vast monk kitchen, and take in the breathtaking views of the Lhasa valley. Feeling tired? Refresh yourself with a sip from the mountain spring. If you're lucky to visit during the Shoton Festival, you'll witness the awe-inspiring Thangka unveiling ceremony.

After lunch, head to Sera Monastery, the second-largest Gelugpa monastery in Lhasa. Here, you can watch the famous "monk debate" in the lively debate courtyard, where monks energetically slap hands, yell, and jump. You can also admire the intricate sand mandala, visit the Buddhist scripture printing press, and explore the main assembly hall. In the evening, experience the grand Princess Wencheng Real-scene Musical in an open-air theater, showcasing the legendary marriage between Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo and Princess Wencheng from the Tang Dynasty, and immerse yourself in Tibetan culture and traditions.

Today we will drive from Lhasa to Shigatse, a treat for your senses. In just 2 hours, marvel at the breathtaking Yamdrok Lake, its turquoise waters glistening under the sun. As we wind along the lakeside road, the Gampala pass at 4790 meters offers a spectacular view of Yamdrok Lake against the backdrop of snow-capped Mt. Nyenchen Khangsar. Don't miss the chance to meet a friendly Tibetan mastiff for a memorable photo opportunity.

Continuing our route, Nagarze reveals the imposing Karola Glacier, cascading beside the highway, a sight to behold. We'll pause at Manla Reservoir to admire its serene turquoise waters and hang prayer flags at Simila Pass (4200m) for blessings. Soon, Gyantse unfolds before us, Tibet's third largest city on the Lhasa-Shigatse route. Explore Pelkor Monastery, a harmonious gathering of Tibetan Buddhist traditions, and ascend the Gyantse Kumbum Stupa for panoramic views of Gyantse fortress. After a scenic drive of one and a half hours, we arrive at Shigatse (3900m), Tibet’s gateway to Mount Everest, where adventure awaits.

Embark on an unforgettable journey with an early visit to the renowned Tashilunpo Monastery, where each corner whispers tales of the Panchen Lamas. Wander through its labyrinthine alleys, marvel at the towering golden statue of Future Buddha, and pay homage at the golden stupas of the Panchen Lamas and Amitabha Buddha. You might even witness monks chanting in the assembly hall or engaged in lively debates in the courtyard.

Leaving Shigatse behind, our next destination is the famed Everest Base Camp. The 350km drive is a scenic odyssey, transitioning from verdant farmlands to the rugged Himalayan panorama. Brace yourself for the exhilarating ascent to Gawu La Pass (5198m), where the majesty of the world's tallest peaks unfolds before you. Take a moment for an epic photo with these towering giants. Continuing on, pass by Rongbuk Monastery (5154m) before reaching the tented camp near EBC (5200m). Here, experience the authentic charm of a traditional yak tent and, if you're daring, step outside at night to witness the mesmerizing galaxy above the Everest Base Camp.

Experience the magic of a dawn ascent to witness the breathtaking sunrise atop Mt. Everest. Join fellow adventurers and skilled photographers to capture this iconic moment, wrapped up warmly against the crisp mountain air.

Afterward, leisurely explore the renowned Rongbuk Monastery (at 5,154m), the highest Buddhist sanctuary globally, where devoted monks and nuns reside harmoniously. Receive a special certificate commemorating your journey to Everest Base Camp. As your journey concludes, bid a fond farewell to majestic Mt. Everest from your rearview mirror as you travel back to Shigatse, reflecting on the awe-inspiring experiences of your Lhasa luxury tour.

Today after breakfast, we will drive to Lhasa. Along the way, marvel at breathtaking landscapes and the majestic Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains. In the evening, savor a sumptuous dinner and celebrate the success of your Everest Base Camp adventure. Rest deeply tonight because tomorrow we embark on an unforgettable journey to the heavenly Namtso Lake.

Wake up early and get your camera ready for an unforgettable journey to Namtso Lake, the highest saline lake in the world at 4718 meters. As we wind through the picturesque villages of Lhasa Valley, heading north, you might even spot a Tibet train traversing the breathtaking Tibetan Plateau alongside us.

Approaching Damxung, keep your camera handy for shots of Tibetan yaks grazing amidst their traditional tents on the hillsides and valleys. Before descending to the shore of Namtso Lake, catch a breathtaking view from the lofty Lagenla Pass (5190m). At Namtso Lake, take a leisurely stroll along its heavenly shores, listening to the calls of gulls (especially in summer) and soaking in the stunning views of the lake against the snowy peaks of Mt. Nyenchen Thanglha. It’s a truly surreal experience.

The drive back might feel long and tiring, but we have a perfect plan to relax and rejuvenate along the way to Lhasa. We’ll make a refreshing stop at Yangpachen hot spring, renowned for its mineral-rich waters and breathtaking mountain views. Imagine soaking in these heavenly pools nestled amidst towering peaks.

After our blissful time at the hot springs, our journey takes us to Chimelong Nunnery (Phyirmil Lung Nunnery). This serene nunnery offers insights into Tibetan Buddhist practices, providing a peaceful atmosphere to explore and reflect. Keep an eye out for distant views of a sky burial site, a unique Tibetan funeral tradition, adding a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Tibet.

Your guide will accompany you to the airport or train station for your next flight or onward journey, marking the conclusion of your luxury tour in Lhasa.