*** Updated 2024 ***
Every year, we carefully update our itineraries to ensure that we are always offering the best and most exciting experience possible. This means taking advantage of newly opened roads, hotels, and restaurants, and constantly seeking out new and unique adventures to make your trip unforgettable. So you can rest assured that when you travel with us, you’ll be embarking on a journey that is fresh, dynamic, and tailored to meet your every need.

Day 1: Lhasa arrival [3650m]
Welcome to Lhasa! Your English-speaking Tibetan guide and driver will warmly welcome you and accompany you to your hotel. Lhasa is one of the highest cities in the world. We understand that the high altitude of Tibet can be challenging for some, so we recommend taking your time to acclimate. Rest assured, we will provide all the necessary support to ensure your well-being. Remember to drink plenty of water and take a good rest to minimise any altitude sickness symptoms. Get ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Overnight in Lhasa.

Day 2: Lhasa sightseeing
At the assigned time, we’ll begin our tour by visiting the iconic Potala Palace. Built in the 17th century by the fifth Dalai Lama, this magnificent palace offers breathtaking views of the entire city and is home to the private quarters of the Dalai Lama, numerous grand state rooms, and chapels. Afterward, we’ll visit the revered Jokhang Temple, founded in the 7th century by Songtsen Gampo, which is considered the most sacred monastery in Tibet. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this magical land: take a stroll through the vibrant Barkhor old quarter and follow pilgrims from all over the Tibetan plateau on a kora around the Jokhang Temple. Kora is a term used in Tibetan Buddhism that refers to the practice of circumambulating around a sacred site, such as a temple, stupa or mountain, as a way of showing devotion and accumulating merit. The practice involves walking clockwise around the site, often while reciting mantras, prayers or other sacred texts. It is also believed to bring good fortune and blessings to those who undertake it. Overnight in Lhasa.

Day 3: Lhasa sightseeing
Today we’ll visit Drepung and Sera monasteries. After breakfast, we’ll venture to the outskirts of Lhasa to witness the grandeur of the Drepung Monastery, the largest in Tibet, which once housed 7000 monks. Along with the monasteries of Ganden and Sera, Drepung is one of the three great centers of Tibetan Buddhist education in the Gelugpa school, also known as the Yellow Hat Sect. Founded in the 15th century, it was the former residence of the Dalai Lama before the construction of the majestic Potala Palace. In the afternoon, you’ll be mesmerised by the famous debates of the Sera Monastery, where the monks engage with vibrant energy in intellectual discourse and challenge each other’s understanding of Buddhist philosophy. It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience not to be missed! Overnight in Lhasa.

Day 4: Lhasa – Shigatse [354Km, 3840m]
Let the adventure begin! We’ll hit the road and head West to reach Shigatse, the second largest city in Tibet, before dinner time. We’ll start ascending the Kampa-la Pass [4797m], where you’ll witness the stunning Mt. Noijin Kangsang [7206m] and the breathtaking turquoise waters of holy lake Yamdrok-Tso. An unreal sight that will leave you spellbound all along the way to the Karo-la Pass [5050m], where you’ll marvel at the glacier that majestically hugs the roadside. The last stop will be the charming Gyantse town, home to the Kumbum Stupa inside Pelkor Chode Monastery, renowned for its exquisite Tibetan art paintings. From the top of the Kumbum, you’ll also be treated to a magnificent view of the majestic Gyantse Dzong fortress overlooking the valley. Overnight in Shigatse.

Day 5: Shigatse – Rongbuk [334Km, 5000m]
Another thrilling day! We’ll reach one of the major highlights of our trip, near Mt. Everest North Base Camp [5200m]. The journey to Rongbuk involves crossing the high passes of Gyatso-la [5220m] and Pang-la [5150m]. Gyatso-la gives the opportunity to view Mt. Everest and the Himalayas for the first time; and from the top of the Pang-la you’ll enjoy amazing views of several peaks like Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Mount Everest. The Rongbuk Monastery is located at the foot of the Everest, and the highest monastery in the world. You’ll spend the night at the tourist camp site located a few Kilometres from the real EBC used by climbing expeditions, where you’ll have direct views of Mt. Everest (Qomolangma). Since 2018 tourists are not allowed to visit the EBC due to environmental protection and now there is a eco-bus shuttle to access Rongbuk. Overnight in Rongbuk.

Day 6: Rongbuk – Shigatse [334Km, 3840m]
Today begins the end of your Tibetan journey through the most sacred Buddhist monasteries and greatest mountains on earth. If you would like to start early your day, enjoy the sunrise with Everest peak views on the horizon [8848m]. After breakfast we visit Rongbuk Monastery where we will take a last look at Mt. Everest North Face and then drive back to Shigatse to enjoy a nice shower, sleep in a comfortable bed. And if you have some free time, don’t forget to do the Kora around the monastery to soak up the stunning panorama of the valley and the impressive Dzong (fortress). Overnight in Shigatse.

Day 7: Shigatse – Lhasa [272Km, 3650m]
Our last day of our Tibetan traverse goes along the Yarlung Tsampo (Brahmaputra) River. This is the most direct route to Lhasa and part of the Friendship Highway. As early as possible, we’ll be visiting the Tashilhunpo Monastery, built in the 15th century by the first Dalai Lama and currently the seat of the Panchen Lama. On the way, we’ll make a short stop to learn how traditional Tibetan incense is made. Free time for the rest of the day in Lhasa. Overnight in Lhasa.

Day 8: Tibet departure
Enjoy your last hours in Tibet exploring Lhasa on your own until your guide and driver meet you at the hotel to transfer you to the airport. End of our services.

Consider extending your trip walking the wonderful ancient route between two of our most important Monasteries: The Ganden to Samye Trek. It’s also possible to spend one-two more days visiting holy Namtso lake in North Lhasa (250Km, 3-4 hours drive, one way). Or even take a relaxing day in Lhasa on your own!

Please, contact us for further information about any available extension of your trip.

Day 7: Shigatse – Damxung [326Km, 4290m]
As early as possible, we’ll be visiting the Tashilhunpo Monastery, built in the 15th century by the first Dalai Lama and currently the seat of the Panchen Lama. Afterwards, we’ll be heading North-East towards the non-touristy nomadic Yangpachen valley, where you can experience spectacular views of the Nyenchen Thangla Range. Unfortunately, the tourist campsite near Namtso lake shore has been dismantled, but don’t worry! We have an alternative plan – we’ll be staying in the nearby town of Damxung after making a stop in Yangpachen, which is famous for its local hot spring resort. So after long days of driving, it’s the perfect time to kick back and relax. Overnight in Damxung.

Day 8: Damxung – Namtso lake – Lhasa [300Km, 3650m]
The crossing of the Nyenchen Thangla Range and the Largen-la Pass [5190m] let us see in the horizon our sacred Namtso lake, the most beautiful lake in Tibet. You will enter the Changtang plateau, where the nomadic way of life still thrives. At the lake shore, you’ll be awe-struck by the stunning scenery of the Nyenchen Tanglha snow peak [7162m] towering over the crystal blue waters of Namtso Lake. After a visit to Tashi Dor Monastery, we’ll drive back to Lhasa. Overnight in Lhasa.

Day 9: Tibet departure
Enjoy your last hours in Tibet exploring Lhasa on your own until your guide and driver meet you at the hotel to transfer you to the airport. End of our services.