Tibet: Route E1 [Explore Tibet] 11-Day

Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region! Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar International Airport or Lhasa Railway Station, our friendly guide will greet you with a Hada (a traditional white silk scarf) and warm blessings. (Tip: Please let us know your mode of transportation and arrival time in advance.) After that, we will escort you to your hotel in downtown Lhasa. (Tip: The airport is located about 60 km southeast of the city, 1-1.5 hours’ drive.)

After check-in, take the rest of the day to relax and acclimatize to Lhasa’s high altitude (3,650 m). It’s important to allow your body to adjust before beginning your exciting journey through Tibet.

Warm Reminder:

ü According to regulations, foreign tourists and tourists from Taiwan (China) must be accompanied by a licensed tour guide when arriving in or departing from Lhasa. The travel agency will inform you of the hotel check-in procedure in advance, to facilitate your check-in at the front desk. If you do not receive the notification, please contact the travel agency staff promptly (see the group departure notice for details), and we will provide you with timely assistance. Your tour guide will notify you of the assembly time for the next day via phone call or text message before 10:00 PM.

Helpful Reminders for Your First Day in Lhasa:

ü Take a good rest and stay calm. This is the best way to prevent altitude sickness.

ü Avoid strenuous activity and you’d better not take a shower on the first night to prevent catching a cold.

ü Do not drink alcohol. Instead, drink plenty of water, eat fruits, and avoid heavy meals.

ü If you wish, you can prepare herbal or oxygen supplements such as Rhodiola, American ginseng lozenges, or Gaoyuan’an to help with adaptation.

ü Always follow the advice of your local guide. If you feel unwell, inform your guide and seek medical attention promptly.

This morning, our knowledgeable guide will meet your group at the hotel. Let’s begin our journey into the eastern part of Tibet! Depart from Lhasa and embark on a scenic drive to Nyingchi.

Along the way, enjoy the breathtaking landscapes along the Lalin Expressway, renowned as one of the most picturesque highways in China. Part of both the Sichuan–Tibet and Yunnan–Tibet high-grade routes, this road offers mesmerizing views of snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and vast grasslands. Take your time to capture these striking vistas with your camera!

After about 4–5 hours on the road (366 kilometers), you will arrive at Kadinggou (altitude: 2,980 m), often praised as “Heaven on Earth.” As you step into the gorge, you’ll be surrounded by the soothing sound of water flowing through the pristine forest. Here, you can admire towering mountains, dramatic valleys, unique rock formations, ancient trees, and even stretches of bamboo forest.

Following your exploration of Kadinggou, continue your short drive (about 30 km) to Nyingchi for accommodation.

This morning, your group will enjoy refreshing nature excursion in the Nyingchi region. Travel from Nyingchi City to Segrila Pass, located about 48 kilometers away. At an elevation of 4,768 meters, Segrila Pass is one of the highest road passes in Nyingchi. Situated on the southeastern edge of the Nyainqentanglha Range, it offers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. On clear days, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular sight - Mount Namche Barwa, the highest peak in the eastern Himalayas. Rising to 7,782 meters, this striking peak is renowned for its dramatic beauty and is often regarded as one of the most breathtaking mountains in Tibet.

Continue to the Lulang Forest Viewpoint. Lulang Forest is a lush, picturesque landscape often described as a “forest sea beneath the clouds.” Snowy peaks frame the valley, while the forest and meadows spread out in neat, layered patterns that look almost hand-crafted. Its serene, poetic scenery has earned Lulang the reputation of being a place “so beautiful that it makes people forget their homes.”

Afterward, return to Nyingchi City to explore Biri Holy Mountain. Known in Tibetan as “Monkey Mountain,” Biri is one of the most revered sacred mountains in Nyingchi and is said to have been blessed by Guru Padmasambhava. The scenic area features an ecological square, a creek-side zone, Tangcheng Monastery, forests of prayer flags, and ancient cultural relics. Thousands of pilgrims come here each year to circumambulate the mountain. The site is also home to the Nyingchi Natural Ecology Museum, which displays 586 species of plants and animals, highlighting the region’s extraordinary biodiversity. From the mountainside, you can enjoy panoramic views of Bayi Town, while the summit is adorned with vibrant prayer flags - each carrying blessings and prayers from local Tibetans.

Special Meal Arranged: Lulang Stone Pot Chicken

ü A signature dish of the Nyingchi region, Stone Pot Chicken is prepared by slow-stewing local chicken with shouzhangshen (a type of wild ginseng) in a handcrafted stone pot. The resulting broth is aromatic and soothing, while the chicken is tender and rich in flavor. The pot itself is carved from rare soapstone found only in Motuo, carried out by porters and hand-chiseled by the Monpa people. These dark-green stone pots retain heat exceptionally well and naturally contain magnesium, iron, and 17 trace minerals.

Warm Reminder:

ü Due to limited capacity at the Basumtso Scenic Area, if hotels inside the scenic zone are fully booked or temporarily closed, your stay will be arranged in Nyingchi City instead. There will be no change in price, and all sightseeing activities will remain the same.

This morning, enjoy the refreshing mountain air and the lush greenery around you as a new day begins.

After breakfast, your group will travel to Basumtso Lake (3,538 m), also known as Basong Tso or Dragsum Tso. Located in Gongbo’gyamda County, this stunning alpine lake is famous for its turquoise waters that reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks. As a national forest park and 5A scenic area, Basumtso offers beautiful landscapes that change throughout the day. The lake is also a sacred site in Tibetan Buddhism, especially for followers of the Nyingma sect, and is believed to be blessed by Guru Rinpoche and King Gesar.

Upon arrival, take in the peaceful atmosphere before visiting Tashi Island, a small island in the center of the lake. Here you’ll find Tsozong Monastery, a simple yet spiritually significant temple dating back to the 17th century. Enjoy a gentle walk around the island, where you’ll see highlights such as the Peach Embracing Pine, the remains of an ancient water-burial platform, and the unique “Letter Tree,” whose leaves naturally form symbols resembling Tibetan letters. Don’t miss the sacred well, an important part of local religious tradition.

Afterward, continue to Jieba Village, a picturesque Tibetan settlement that offers excellent views of Basumtso Lake and the surrounding snow mountains known as the “King’s Throne” and “Burning Flame.” The village provides a wonderful glimpse into authentic Tibetan culture and daily life.

When the visit concludes, begin the 4.5–6 hour drive back to Lhasa. Have a good rest in Lhasa.

Traditional Handicraft Art center (Tibet Culture Experience)

Today we will take you to fully immerse yourself in experiencing traditional Tibetan Traditional Handicraft Art Center. Experience Tibetan incense crafting (a sacred Buddhist practice), explore the ancient Tibetan script (derived from Sanskrit), and uncover the mysteries of traditional woodblock printing (used for sutra reproduction for centuries).

Tibetan incense is commonly burned as an offering during Buddhist ceremonies and rituals. Its ingredients often include juniper, sandalwood, cedar-wood, cinnamon, cloves, and a variety of medicinal herbs.

In addition to crafting incense, you can observe the full process demonstrated by the local artisan, who will teach you Tibetan calligraphy and help you write your own name or blessing in the Tibetan script. This makes for a meaningful keepsake to bring home as a memory.

Sera Monastery

Take a short drive of about 7 km (20 minutes) to visit Sera Monastery, one of the three great Gelug university monasteries in Tibet. Here, you’ll experience Tibetan Buddhism up close. The highlight is the monks’ debate, held daily from around 15:00 to 17:00 (except Sundays). This lively intellectual exchange involves one monk standing and asking questions, while others sit and respond. The standing monk’s gestures - such as palm-slapping and foot-stomping - symbolize activating wisdom and are not acts of aggression. You’ll also have the chance to observe prayer ceremonies, explore meditation halls, and learn about monastic life.

Warm Reminder:

ü If today falls on Sunday, you will only visit the Sera monastery without debating. We will appreciate your understanding!!

ü If Sera monastery holds temporary religious ceremonies or receives special guests, the debating could be canceled.

Today, you’ll embark on a scenic drive from Lhasa to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. The journey covers around 370 kilometers and takes 7 hours’ drive, with stops to admire two of Tibet’s most spectacular natural wonders - Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier.

In the morning, after about 2-3 hours of driving (110 km), get your camera ready as you approach Kampala Pass (4,797 m). Here, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Yamdrok Lake, a turquoise ribbon shimmering among snow-capped mountains. Known as one of Tibet’s four sacred lakes (along with Lhamo Latso, Manasarovar, and Namtso), Yamdrok is believed to hold spiritual power - helping Tibetans locate the reincarnated soul of the Dalai Lama. You’ll also see locals offering photo opportunities with Tibetan mastiffs, yaks, or goats dressed in traditional ornaments.

In the afternoon, continue driving for about 1.5 hours (87 km) to reach the stunning Karola Glacier (5,012 m) - one of Tibet’s three major continental glaciers and a filming site of the movie Red Valley (Hong He Gu). Backed by Naiqin Kangsang Peak (7,191 m), the glacier gleams like a frozen waterfall cascading right beside the highway. You can enjoy the view from your vehicle or take a short, easy walk to the glacier’s base. Across the road, admire the majestic snow-capped Mount Kalurong - another highlight of this alpine wonderland.

Tips for visiting Karola Glacier:

ü The altitude here is about 5,012 meters, so move slowly and avoid overexertion.

ü The public toilets are very basic - be prepared.

ü Some locals may charge a small fee for taking photos with them or their animals - always confirm before photographing.

Afterward, drive about 3.5 hours (170 km) through Gyantse, along the wide Nianchu River Valley, passing through scenic Tibetan villages, vast barley fields, and golden rapeseed flower fields (in summer). Upon arrival in Shigatse (altitude: 3845 meters), check into your hotel and rest well.

Warm Reminder:

ü For foreign and Taiwan travelers, registration at the Shigatse Entry & Exit Administration Office is required. Your guide will assist with the process and may adjust the schedule accordingly - please follow their instructions and cooperate as needed.

Today, your whole group will drive from Shigatse toward to Mount Everest (Qomolangma), the highest mountain on Earth. Along the way, admire the stunning transformation of the landscape as you ascend toward the Himalayas.

Gyawu La Pass - the Everest Viewing Platform

Follow the famous 108 switchbacks along the Everest Road to reach Gyawu La Pass (5210 m), also known as the Everest Viewing Platform. On clear days, this is one of the few places on Earth where you can see five of the world’s highest peaks above 8,000 meters lined up before you - Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Shishapangma. The panoramic view is awe-inspiring, with the mighty snow peaks stretching endlessly across the horizon.

Rongbuk Monastery - the Highest Monastery in the World

Continue to Rongbuk Monastery (5154 m), nestled at the foot of the Rongbuk Glacier. It is the highest monastery in the world, belonging to the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism, and is home to both monks and nuns. The monastery is divided into old and new sections - the old one preserves meditation caves believed to have been used by Guru Padmasambhava, while the new section offers a spectacular view of Mount Everest’s north face. The white chorten and mani stones at the entrance make for iconic photo compositions - quiet, sacred, and timeless.

Everest Base Camp - Touching the Summit of the World

Standing at 8,848 meters, Mount Everest straddles the border between China and Nepal in the central Himalayas. The endless glaciers, hanging ice cliffs, and snow-covered ridges create a view of rare beauty and grandeur.

Then, head to Everest Base Camp (EBC, 5200 m) - the closest point ordinary travelers can get to the world’s highest peak. Surrounded by tented lodges, EBC stands just 19 km in a straight line from Mount Everest’s summit. Here, you can truly feel the majesty of the mountain - towering, powerful, and humbling. Many visitors describe this as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with Everest’s sheer presence leaving an unforgettable impression.

Warm Tips for Visiting EBC:

ü From Everest Town (50 km from EBC), travelers must transfer to the eco-friendly shuttle bus for the final stretch to Base Camp, and return the next day the same way. Your main driver and vehicle will not accompany you - please bring all essentials with you.

ü Accommodation at EBC is in tented camps (reconstructed in 2025) with improved facilities, now offering twin rooms and a simple dining tent. However, amenities remain basic with shared bathrooms. Supplies are limited due to high altitude, so please be understanding.

ü During winter, if the tent camp is closed due to weather, the group will stay in a guesthouse in Everest Town (or called Tashizom Town) (with private bathroom).

ü The altitude and temperature can be extreme - even in summer, nighttime temperatures may drop to 0-8°C. Please dress warmly or rent a down jacket at Base Camp if needed.

Wake up to the crisp morning air at EBC. Take a quiet moment to embrace the majesty of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayas. If you wish, begin your day with some gentle yoga or meditation to refresh both body and mind, or enjoy a peaceful walk around the base camp for close-up views of this extraordinary landscape.

Tip:

ü If weather permits, you can enjoy the Golden Summit view - one of the most breathtaking sights on Earth. The best seasons are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November), when the skies are usually clear. You'll need to rise early and take a short hike to the viewing point to see the snow-capped peaks glowing golden in the morning light.

After a memorable morning at Everest Base Camp, start your return journey to Shigatse City. En route, make a stop at Gyatso La Pass (5,248 m) - the highest point along the Sino-Nepal Friendship Highway and part of the Mount Everest National Nature Reserve. From the viewing platform, admire the towering peaks of Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu, all rising above 8,000 meters. The colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind add a touch of sacred beauty to this spectacular panorama - a perfect spot for photos.

Continue your scenic drive back to Shigatse, check into your hotel, and enjoy a relaxing evening with a warm shower after the day’s adventure. Overnight in Shigatse.

This morning, visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the spiritual heart of Shigatse.

Founded in 1447 by Gyalwa Gedun Drup, the 1st Dalai Lama and a disciple of Tsongkhapa, Tashilhunpo Monastery is the largest monastery in Tibet’s Tsang region and one of the six great Gelug monasteries alongside Drepung, Sera, Ganden, Labrang, and Ta’er. It has long been the traditional seat of the Panchen Lamas, the second-highest incarnation lineage in Tibetan Buddhism after the Dalai Lama.

At its height, the monastery housed over 5,000 monks and included more than 3,000 rooms, 50 affiliated temples, and 30 manors and pastures. Today, you can still sense its grandeur as you explore its vast complex of prayer halls, courtyards, and golden roofs glinting under the sun.

Highlights of Tashilhunpo Monastery:

ü Admire the Maitreya (Future Buddha) Chapel, which enshrines a magnificent bronze statue of the Maitreya Buddha - made with over 115 tons of copper, 250 kg of gold, and adorned with more than 1,400 precious jewels including diamonds and pearls.

ü Pay respect to the sacred stupas (reliquary chortens) of successive Panchen Lamas, exquisitely crafted with gold, silver, coral, pearls, turquoise, and silk.

ü Enjoy a panoramic view of Shigatse city and the serene monastic life, where monks in crimson robes chant sutras echoing through the halls.

After visiting Tashilhunpo Monastery, drive back to Lhasa along the scenic Friendship Highway, following the Yarlung Tsangpo River. The journey takes about 4.5-5 hours (270 km). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax for the night.

Overnight in Lhasa.