Everest Base Camp with Lhasa tour

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours will greet you with a warm welcome and transfer you to your hotel located in the bustling district of Thamel. Once settled in, you'll have the rest of the day to relax after your journey. For those with energy, take a gentle walk through Thamel — a colorful hub of tourists, full of shops, cafés, and cultural curiosities. You can browse local handicrafts, try Nepali cuisine, or sip a warm cup of tea in one of the rooftop cafés. This day is also an opportunity to meet your guide and group members during a short briefing session. Make sure to rest early, as tomorrow brings a new adventure into the mystical highlands of Tibet.

Early in the morning, you'll board a scenic trans-Himalayan flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa. This unforgettable flight offers sweeping views of some of the world's highest peaks, including Mt. Everest and Mt. Kanchenjunga. Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport, you will be greeted by your Tibetan guide and transferred to your hotel in the city center. Because of the high altitude (3,650 meters), today is dedicated entirely to acclimatization. Take it slow — rest, hydrate, and enjoy the first glimpses of the ancient Tibetan capital. You may wish to take a gentle evening walk around the hotel area, soaking in the ambiance of the city nestled amidst vast mountains.

Your exploration of Lhasa begins with a visit to one of Tibet’s most iconic landmarks — the Potala Palace, the winter residence of the Dalai Lama and a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. This 13-story fortress-like structure offers panoramic views of Lhasa and is rich in murals, chapels, and sacred artifacts. Later, you'll visit the Jokhang Temple, considered the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism. Located in the heart of the old city, the temple is surrounded by Barkhor Street, a lively marketplace and pilgrimage kora route. Here, you’ll witness the devout spinning prayer wheels, chanting mantras, and offering incense, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere. This day offers deep insights into the religious, cultural, and historical tapestry of Tibet.

Prepare for a stunning overland journey today as you depart Lhasa and head toward Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. En route, you’ll cross the Kamba La Pass (4,794m), revealing a dramatic view of the sacred Yamdrok Lake, a shimmering turquoise gem surrounded by snow-capped peaks. You’ll then continue past the Karo La Glacier, where massive ice sheets flow right to the roadside. A stop in the historical town of Gyantse allows you to visit the majestic Gyantse Kumbum, a multi-tiered stupa filled with exquisite chapels and murals. This journey not only showcases the natural beauty of Tibet but also introduces you to its ancient trade towns and architectural wonders. The drive is long but awe-inspiring throughout.

Today’s cultural immersion continues with a visit to two of Tibet’s great monastic universities. In the morning, explore Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world and home to over 10,000 monks. Its whitewashed buildings cling to the hillside and offer incredible views and spiritual insights. After lunch, you'll head to Sera Monastery, where the highlight is the unique monk debate sessions held in the courtyard. These lively intellectual sparring matches are both traditional and theatrical, showcasing the monks’ understanding of Buddhist philosophy. Between ancient halls, golden statues, and spiritual chants, today will leave you with a deeper appreciation of Tibetan monastic life and its enduring legacy.

After breakfast, begin the scenic drive across the windswept Tibetan plateau to the small town of Xegar (also known as New Tingri). This region is characterized by expansive grasslands, herds of yaks, and nomadic settlements scattered across the plains. You'll pass through mountain passes and small villages, offering glimpses of rural Tibetan life untouched by modernity. The altitude continues to rise today, so it's crucial to stay well-hydrated and pace yourself. As you approach Xegar, the views of the Himalayas begin to dominate the skyline, including distant glimpses of Mount Everest itself. The town serves as an important rest point before tomorrow’s highly anticipated journey to Everest Base Camp.

Today marks a major highlight of the journey. You’ll drive toward Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world at 5,000 meters, offering breathtaking views of the north face of Mount Everest (Qomolangma). From here, a short drive or walk takes you to Everest Base Camp (North Face). Standing at 5,200 meters, this legendary site offers a surreal panorama of the world's tallest peak — an experience both humbling and unforgettable. Explore the base camp area, take photos, and soak in the rare privilege of being at the base of Everest. Later, return to Rongbuk for the night. The terrain is stark yet beautiful, a true testament to nature’s grandeur.

Leaving the high-altitude regions behind, today you descend toward the lush and verdant Gyirong Valley. The dramatic change in landscape — from arid plateaus to green gorges and pine forests — is truly captivating. The road winds through mountains and valleys, passing waterfalls, alpine meadows, and small Tibetan villages. Gyirong is not only known for its natural beauty but also serves as an important border crossing between Tibet and Nepal. The air becomes richer, and you’ll feel the altitude ease as you descend. Upon arrival, settle into your guesthouse and enjoy the tranquil environment as you prepare for the return to Nepal.

After breakfast, you'll complete immigration formalities at the Rasuwagadhi border, officially exiting Tibet and re-entering Nepal. From here, the journey continues through the scenic Langtang region, known for its deep gorges, rivers, and terraced farmland. Though the road can be challenging and rough in places, the changing landscape offers a rich reward. You'll pass small villages, waterfalls, and hillsides dotted with prayer flags and shrines. After an approximate 11–12 hour drive, you’ll finally arrive back in the familiar bustle of Kathmandu. The day ends with a well-earned rest, or a celebratory dinner in Thamel to mark the end of this extraordinary adventure.

Today marks the end of your journey with Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours. Depending on your flight schedule, you may opt for a short city tour to visit sacred sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, or the medieval city of Bhaktapur. These optional add-ons offer a perfect cultural conclusion to your Himalayan adventure. At the appointed time, you’ll be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. Depart with unforgettable memories of towering peaks, sacred monasteries, vibrant cultures, and the spiritual richness of both Nepal and Tibet — a true journey to the roof of the world.