The 9-day Everest Base Camp trek via Tibet offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the exotic Orient. This unique adventure combines stunning Himalayan panoramas, the majestic Potala Palace, and authentic Tibetan culture, along with visits to serene monasteries that echo centuries of spiritual tradition.
Your trip begins with a scenic drive from Kerung to Shegar, passing through lush green landscapes and catching glimpses of towering, sunlit peaks through your vehicle windows. This beautiful route sets the tone for the breathtaking experiences ahead as you approach the northern face of Mount Everest.
Next, you’ll arrive in Lhasa, Tibet’s vibrant capital, where you can immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of history and culture. Explore ancient temples and monasteries that are not only masterpieces of religious art but also living symbols of Tibet’s medieval heritage. Today’s Lhasa is a bustling city, full of life and stories—where tradition and history blend seamlessly.
This journey is more than a trek; it’s a chance to witness the soul of Tibet while standing in awe of the world’s highest peak. Prepare to be inspired by landscapes, culture, and history that stay with you long after your adventure ends.
9 days / 8 nights Everest Base Camp via Tibet trip
Tibet Region: Nature’s Grandeur, Culture’s Depth
Highlights
- Experience the majestic north face of Mount Everest with fewer crowds and a more serene atmosphere than the Nepal side.
- Enjoy a picturesque drive through lush valleys, high passes, and remote Tibetan villages en route to Tibet.
- Take in breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and expansive plateaus throughout the journey.
- Visit iconic landmarks like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, gaining insight into Tibetan history and spirituality.
- Discover Tibet’s deep spiritual roots through guided visits to centuries-old monasteries along the route.
- Includes experienced guides, pre-arranged permits, and carefully selected accommodations for safety and ease.
- Designed to allow proper acclimatization and maximize both trekking and cultural experiences.
- Combines natural beauty, spiritual discovery, and immersive cultural encounters in one unforgettable journey.
Itinerary
Depart early from Kathmandu for an 8-hour drive through scenic Nepalese countryside to the border at Kerung. After clearing immigration and customs, continue uphill to the Tibetan town of Kerung. Meet your Tibetan guide at the checkpoint. Overnight in a guesthouse.
Drive across the vast Tibetan plateau, experiencing its remote beauty. Cross the Lalunga La Pass (5,050m) with possible views of Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201m) and Mt. Shishapangma (8,012m), weather permitting. Overnight in a guesthouse in Shegar.
Start early and trek to Everest Base Camp. Enjoy panoramic views of the majestic north face of Mt. Everest, especially at sunrise and sunset. Overnight at the base camp.
After breakfast at Everest Base Camp, return to Shegar and drive to Shigatse. En route, pass the Gyatchu La Pass (5,220m) and enjoy views of vast Tibetan landscapes. Visit the giant Thangka wall near Shigatse. Overnight at a hotel (twin sharing, BB basis).
In the morning, visit the Panchen Lama’s Tashilhunpo Monastery and explore Shigatse’s local bazaar. Then drive through Tibet’s largest agricultural region to Gyantse. Visit Khumbum Stupa and Phalkor Monastery. Overnight at a hotel (twin sharing, BB basis).
Drive to Lhasa, crossing two scenic mountain passes—Karo La (5,010m) and Khamba La (4,794m)—and passing the stunning Yamdrok Tso (Turquoise Lake). Cross the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra) River with distant views of the Potala Palace. Overnight at a hotel (twin sharing, BB basis).
Explore Lhasa’s cultural highlights:
- Potala Palace: Perched on Red Hill at 3,767m, it’s the world’s highest ancient palace and a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism. Originally built in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo and rebuilt during the Qing Dynasty, it remains a major pilgrimage site.
- Jokhang Temple: Built by King Songtsen Gampo, this 1,300-year-old temple is Tibet’s most sacred site and part of the UNESCO-listed Potala complex. It spans 25,100 sq. meters and is a key pilgrimage destination.
- Barkhor Street: A historic circular market surrounding Jokhang Temple, filled with pilgrims and local traders.
- Drepung Monastery: Founded in 1416 by Jamyang Chöjé, a disciple of Tsongkhapa, it was once the largest monastery in the world and remains a center of the Gelugpa tradition.
- Sera Monastery: Established in 1419 by Jamchen Chöjé, another disciple of Tsongkhapa. It’s famous for its monastic debates and the wild roses that once grew on the surrounding hills.
Overnight at a hotel.
Your Tibet tour concludes. Drive to Gonggar Airport for your departure flight to Kathmandu or onward to a mainland Chinese city. Air or train tickets can be arranged in advance.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- All land transportation by van or bus
- Hotel or guesthouse accommodation on a twin-sharing, bed and breakfast (BB) basis
- Sightseeing with an experienced English-speaking Tibetan guide
- Monastery entrance fees as per the itinerary
- All airport transfers
Cost Excludes
- Lunch and dinner
- Nepal re-entry visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
FAQs
Tibet is located in the southwest of China and shares borders with India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar. It traditionally comprises three provinces—U-Tsang, Kham, and Amdo. While Tibetans across these regions share a common identity, each area has distinct dialects and cultural traits.
Under Chinese administration, Tibet has been reorganized. The term “Tibet” officially refers to the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), which includes U-Tsang and part of Kham. The rest of Kham is now part of Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, while Amdo is divided among Gansu, Qinghai, and Sichuan. Covering about 1.22 million km²—roughly 12.8% of China—Tibet is known for its stunning high-altitude landscapes and deeply rooted Buddhist culture. Its proximity to Nepal also makes it a top destination for trekking and mountaineering.
Tibet follows China Standard Time (GMT+8), which is 6 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.
To visit Tibet, you need both a Chinese visa and a Tibet Travel Permit. These can be arranged in Kathmandu through a licensed travel agency. Even if you already have a Chinese visa, a Tibet Travel Permit is still required.
To travel outside Lhasa, additional permits such as the Alien Travel Permit or Military Permit may be necessary, depending on the region. A licensed guide and pre-arranged private transport are mandatory for all trips in Tibet.
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months.
- Chinese Visa: Required for entry from Mainland China.
- Group Visa: Required for entry from Nepal. Note: Any existing individual Chinese visa will be canceled when the group visa is issued.
- Tibet Entry Permit: Issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau; mandatory for all foreign travelers.
- Additional Permits (if needed):
- Alien Travel Permit: For visiting restricted areas.
- Military Permit: Required for travel to sensitive border regions.
- By Road:
- Sichuan-Tibet Highway (Chengdu–Lhasa)
- Qinghai-Tibet Highway (Xining–Lhasa)
- Yunnan-Tibet Highway
- Xinjiang-Tibet Highway
- China-Nepal Friendship Highway (main international route)
- By Air:
Flights are available to Lhasa Gonggar Airport, usually via China or Nepal. The only international flight is between Lhasa and Kathmandu. - By Train:
The Qinghai-Tibet Railway connects Xining to Lhasa, covering 1,142 km.
Due to its high altitude, Tibet has unpredictable weather. Lhasa enjoys sunny days and cool nights. Other regions can be much colder, especially in the evenings and mornings. Warm clothing is essential year-round.
The ideal time to visit is from April to early November, with peak travel months in May, June, and September. Lhasa has a mild climate and is suitable for year-round travel. Be prepared for strong UV radiation.
No. Due to strict travel regulations, foreign visitors must join a pre-arranged tour with an authorized travel agency, which handles all permits and documentation.
Yes. Tibet’s elevation can cause mild altitude sickness, especially for travelers from low-altitude regions. Symptoms may include headaches, fatigue, and nausea. Acclimatization, staying hydrated, and avoiding strenuous activity in the first few days help minimize risks. Consult your doctor about AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) medication before your trip.
ATMs are available in Lhasa and Shigatse but are rare in smaller towns. It’s advisable to carry enough cash, including small denominations.
The official currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Currency exchange is available at the Bank of China. Credit cards and travelers’ cheques are rarely accepted outside major cities like Lhasa.
Tourists generally don’t face issues if they avoid political discussions and respect local regulations.
Recommended vaccinations include:
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Tetanus & Diphtheria
- Rabies
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Chickenpox
- Influenza
- Pneumonia
- Polio
- Tuberculosis
- Yellow Fever (only if coming from a yellow-fever-endemic area)
Consult your doctor before travel.
No. All tours include English-speaking guides. Hotel staff in major cities like Lhasa often speak basic English. Tibetan, Chinese, English, and Nepali are commonly spoken.
Yes, but only in limited areas such as Lhasa, Shigatse, Gyantse, and Tsedang. Many hotels in major cities offer Wi-Fi, and some cafés provide internet access.
The 8 Night 9 Days Everest Base Camp via Tibet trek is a remarkable journey to the roof of the world, blending stunning Himalayan scenery with deep Tibetan cultural experiences. This well-crafted itinerary lets travelers witness the awe-inspiring northern face of Mount Everest while exploring Tibet’s spiritual and cultural heartland. Perfect for both adventurers and culture lovers, the trek offers breathtaking landscapes and immersive experiences.
The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to the Tibetan border, passing through lush valleys, high mountain passes, and traditional Tibetan villages. As you travel, enjoy sweeping views of snow-capped peaks and vast plateaus that set the tone for the adventure ahead. This drive is as enriching as the destination, offering moments of serenity and natural beauty.
Reaching Everest Base Camp from the Tibetan side offers a less crowded, more contemplative experience compared to the Nepal route. The itinerary includes visits to ancient monasteries and sacred sites, along with guided tours of Lhasa’s iconic landmarks, including the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple—key highlights of Tibetan history and spirituality.
Throughout the trek, your safety and comfort are prioritized with experienced guides, carefully chosen accommodations, and all necessary permits arranged. The itinerary moves at a moderate pace, making it accessible to most travelers while still offering a genuine Himalayan adventure. The 8 Night 9 Days Everest Base Camp via Tibet trek strikes a perfect balance of trekking, sightseeing, and cultural exploration.
For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan experience that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual depth, the 8 Night 9 Days Everest Base Camp via Tibet trek is an ideal choice. Join now and create lasting memories on this unforgettable journey.
Visa Information
Traveling to Tibet requires both a Chinese Visa and a Tibet Travel Permit, which can be arranged in Kathmandu through a registered travel agency (such as when traveling via Nepal). Note that a regular Chinese visa does not replace the Tibet Travel Permit. Even travelers with a valid Chinese visa must obtain a separate permit to enter Tibet.
To acquire the Tibet Travel Permit:
- You must book a guide for your entire trip.
- Private transport must be arranged for areas outside of Lhasa.
- Additional permits may be required for travel beyond Lhasa, which your travel agency will help arrange.
Required Documents
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months.
- Chinese Visa: Obtainable through a Chinese Embassy or authorized travel agency. Required for entry from mainland China.
- Group Visa: Mandatory for travelers entering Tibet from Nepal. This visa also allows travel into mainland China after your Tibet tour. Note: If you already have an individual Chinese visa, it will be canceled when applying for the group visa from Nepal.
- Tibet Entry Permit: Issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau; essential for all foreign travelers entering Tibet.
- Additional Permits (if applicable):
- Travel Permit: Required for visits to restricted areas.
- Military Permit: Needed to access sensitive or military regions.
Weather Information
Tibet’s weather resembles that of mainland China but is cooler due to its high elevation.
- Summer: Warm, sunny days with cool to chilly nights, especially at higher altitudes.
- Winter: Cold, with little snowfall; Lhasa enjoys sunshine even in winter.
- General Climate:
- Frost occurs for 6+ months annually.
- High-altitude lakes may freeze from October to March.
- Weather varies greatly by region, but Lhasa, situated in a lower valley, tends to be milder and is ideal for travel.
Safety Guidelines
To ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, follow these recommendations:
- Carry at least two copies of your Tibet Travel Permit.
- Keep valuables and documents secure.
- Report any signs of altitude sickness or discomfort to your guide immediately.
- Rest and acclimate in Lhasa for a few days before traveling to higher elevations.
- Avoid visiting attractions immediately upon arrival in Lhasa.
- Refrain from heavy drinking and smoking at high altitudes.
- Respect local customs and religious beliefs; avoid taboo subjects.
- Avoid purchasing wildlife products, unknown Tibetan medicine, or counterfeit goods.
- Never travel alone at night or venture off without informing your guide.
- Prepare sufficient cash, including small denominations, as cards are not widely accepted.
- Be cautious of sunburn and sudden weather changes due to the alpine climate.
- Keep any necessary medications as advised by your doctor.
- Do not carry any materials related to the Dalai Lama or the Free Tibet movement.
- Avoid bringing Tibet-specific guidebooks, as they may attract scrutiny.
