9-Day Tour from Lhasa: Karola Glacier, Shigatse, Mt. Everest and Namtso Lake | Small Group Tour

What you'll experience

Highlights

9 days

Day-by-day itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1 — Arrival Lhasa

   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.

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Lagri Snow Dragon Manor Resort, Tibet Minshan Hotel
2. 2

   Day 2 — Lhasa City Tour: Lhasa Traditional Handicraft Center (Tibetan Culture Experience) , Sera Monastery

   【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】
   * If today falls on Sunday, you will only visit the Sera monastery without debating. We will appreciate your understanding!!
   * If Sera monastery holds temporary religious ceremonies or receives special guests, the debating could be canceled. 

   

   Sera Monastery

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Lagri Snow Dragon Manor Resort, Tibet Minshan Hotel
3. 3

   Day 3 — Lhasa City Tour: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barhkor Street

   【Potala Palace】
   This is the most iconic landmark of Tibet and the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas (1649-1959). After climbing 365 stone steps from the palace gate to the Red Palace, you'll reach the highest ancient palace in the world - standing proudly at 3,700 meters above sea level - and enjoy stunning panoramic view of Lhasa city.
   As you wander through the halls, chapels, and sacred shrines that honor past Dalai Lamas, you'll be captivated by the intricate murals, exquisite carvings, dazzling jeweled decorations, and the deep spiritual atmosphere that fills the air. Inside the Potala Palace, countless Tibetan pilgrims can be seen bowing and praying devoutly - for many, visiting this sacred site is the journey of a lifetime.
   Your guide will also share fascinating stories about King Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd ruler of Tibet, who originally built the Potala Palace in the 7th century to honor his marriage to Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty.
   【Potala Palace Visiting Tips】
   * Visiting time: about 1 hour
   * All visitors must enter as part of a guided group and can stay inside for a maximum of one hour.
   * Tickets are issued under a real-name reservation system. A valid ID, MTP or passport is required, and once reserved, rebooking is not allowed within 7 days.
   * Entry times are assigned randomly by the Potala Palace Administration, and it's not possible to choose your visiting hour.
   * During peak season, your travel group may be split into smaller sub-groups with different visiting times or guides.
   * Photography is strictly prohibited inside the palace.
   【Jokhang Temple】
   Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Lhasa with a history of more than 1,300 years. From afar, you'll see countless devoted pilgrims 
   prostrating in front of the temple. Stop for a while to witness this moving sight and the unwavering faith of Tibetan Buddhists. This will be a moment to touch your soul.
   According to legend, Jokhang Temple was built by King Songtsen Gampo for his two brides - Princess Wencheng of China and Princess Bhrikuti of Nepal. The name Jokhang means "House of the Buddha," and the temple enshrines a life-sized statue of the 12-year-old Sakyamuni, one of the most sacred treasures in the Buddhist world. This makes Jokhang Temple the holiest pilgrimage site in Tibet.
   Take time to explore the temple's intricate architecture - admire the colorful murals, ornate decorations, and fine carvings that showcase the essence of Tibetan craftsmanship. From the second floor, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the bustling Barkhor Street below.
   【Visiting Tips for Jokhang Temple】
   * Visiting time: about 1 hour
   * Admission requires real-name reservation through the "Jokhang Temple Reservation" WeChat between 7:00am–23:59pm for the next day. Reservations are limited, so please book in advance with your guide's assistance.
   *Jokhang Temple is an active religious site. During important religious ceremonies or special events, access may be restricted - your understanding is appreciated.
   【Barkhor Street】
   Step outside to Barkhor Street, once the traditional kora (pilgrimage circuit) around the temple. Today, it's a lively place filled with the scent of incense and the sounds of chanting pilgrims. You can sip yak butter tea at a tea house, dress in Tibetan attire for photos, or shop for unique India.
   Special Meal Arranged: Tibetan or Nepalese specialty cuisine

   

   Potala Palace

   

   Jokhang Temple

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Lagri Snow Dragon Manor Resort, Tibet Minshan Hotel
4. 4

   Day 4 — Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Karola Glacier - Shigatse

   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.
   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.
   【Tips for visiting Karola Glacier】
   *The altitude here is about 5,012 meters, so move slowly and avoid overexertion.
   * The public toilets are very basic - be prepared.
   * Some locals may charge a small fee for taking photos with them or their animals - always confirm before photographing.
   【Warm Reminder】
   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.
   
    

   

   Yamdrok Lake

   

   Karola Glacier

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Cangyu Yabu Hotel, Xike Richview Hotel, Mulunlazong Hotel
5. 5

   Day 5 — Shigatse - Gawula Pass - Rongbuk Monastery - Everest Base Camp(EBC)/Everest Town

   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】
   * 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.
   * 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.
   * 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).
   * 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.
   Special Dinner Arranged: Tonight, enjoy special group dinner - the Everest Hot Pot

   

   Rongbuk Monastery

   

   Everest Base Camp

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Everest Base Camp Tents
6. 6

   Day 6 — Everest Base Camp/Everest town - Gyatso La Mountain Viewpoint - Shigatse

   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. 
   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.
   【Warm Tips】
   * 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.

   

   Everest Base Camp

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Cangyu Yabu Hotel, Xike Richview Hotel, Mulunlazong Hotel
7. 7

   Day 7 — Shigatse - Tashi Lhunpo Monastery - Lhasa

   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.
   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.ve back to Shigatse, check into your hotel, and enjoy a relaxing evening with a warm shower after the day's adventure. Overnight in Shigatse.
   【Highlights of Tashilhunpo Monastery】
   * 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.
   * Pay respect to the sacred stupas (reliquary chortens) of successive Panchen Lamas, exquisitely crafted with gold, silver, coral, pearls, turquoise, and silk.
   *  Enjoy a panoramic view of Shigatse city and the serene monastic life, where monks in crimson robes chant sutras echoing through the halls.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Lagri Snow Dragon Manor Resort, Tibet Minshan Hotel
8. 8

   Day 8 — Lhasa - Namtso Lake - Lhasa

   In the morning, your group will depart from Lhasa and travel toward another holy lake of Tibet. After driving about 280 km, you will reach a viewpoint overlooking the Nyenchen Thanglha Mountain Range (7,162 m), one of Tibet’s most revered holy mountains. Along the way, you’ll pass herds of Tibetan yaks and sheep, and with a bit of luck, you may spot wild animals such as kiangs (wild donkeys), pikas, hares, or foxes. Crossing Laken La Pass (5,190 m), you will soon arrive at Namtso Lake (4,718 m), one of the highest lakes in the world.
   Namtso is one of the three holy lakes of Tibet, believed to be the spiritual home of a Tibetan goddess. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and vast grasslands, it is also the highest saltwater lake in China. Its crystal-clear waters shift from deep blue to turquoise throughout the day, making it a paradise for photography. Capture the ever-changing colors of the lake, the Nyenchen Thanglha peaks, and scenes of nomadic life. According to legend, Namtso Lake is the wife of Nyenchen Thanglha Mountain, the two forever inseparable.
   You will explore Tashi Dor Island, the largest island on the lake. Enjoy a short hike, visit small monasteries, view unique rock formations, and experience tranquil atmosphere. After the tour, be escorted back to Lhasa.
   【Warm Reminder】
   * Due to harsh winter conditions, Namtso may close temporarily because of heavy snowfall.
   * If closure is announced one day in advance, the itinerary will be adjusted to: Lhasa → Ganden Monastery (light hiking on the kora path) → Lhasa
   * If closure is announced on the travel day, the itinerary will be adjusted to: Lhasa → Tsurphu Monastery → Lhasa

   

   Namtso Lake

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Lagri Snow Dragon Manor Resort, Tibet Minshan Hotel
9. 9

   Day 9 — Lhasa Departure

   After breakfast, it's time to say goodbye to the holy city of Lhasa. Your guide and driver will escort you to Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station. Take your flight or train to next destination or go home.
   【Warm Reminder】
   * The drive from downtown Lhasa to the airport takes about 1 hour, so we recommend booking flights departing after 10:00am.
   * Please share your flight or train schedule with us in advance to ensure a smooth transfer.
   * Kindly provide accurate flight or train booking details so that we can arrange the group’s complimentary shared transfer efficiently.
    

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: Excluded

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