8-Day Lhasa Everest Namtso Tour Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Lhasa: Airport / Train Station Pick-up & Hotel Check-in
Distance: 70 km (1 hr driving) from the airport; 20 km (20 min driving) from the train station | Meals: / | Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa
Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, the City of Sunlight, sitting at 3,650 meters on the Tibetan Plateau. Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station, our local Tibetan guide will greet you with your name sign and a Hada (the traditional Tibetan ceremonial scarf). Relax on the comfortable transfer to your downtown hotel, enjoying the first glimpses of the Yarlung Tsangpo River and the surrounding highland landscape. After check-in, the rest of the day is free for you to relax and acclimatize. A good rest on your first day will help your body adapt smoothly to Lhasa’s elevation.
Overnight in Lhasa.
TibetTrip Advice:
1. Free pick-up: Airport 08:00–22:00 | Train station 24 hrs.
2. Lhasa altitude: 3,600 m – rest well on arrival
3. Avoid strenuous activity, alcohol, and showers on Day 1
4. Drink plenty of water and eat light meals
5. Your guide is always available if you need help
Day 2: Lhasa City Tour: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street
Distance: 4 km (0.5 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast, Tibetan Sweet Tea, Tibetan Welcome Dinner | Hotel: Hotel in Lhasa
Today is the cultural and spiritual core of your Tibet journey, taking you deep into Lhasa’s most sacred landmarks.
Morning: Potala Palace Exploration
Potala Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site) – The symbolic heart of Tibet and former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas:
1. Jag Pori Viewing Platform: Capture the classic panoramic view of Potala Palace under the morning sun
2. Treasure Hall: Discover priceless Tibetan artworks, murals, scriptures, and royal relics
3. Palace Mountain Path: Ascend over 900 stone steps, experiencing a true pilgrimage walk
4. White Palace: Explore the Dalai Lamas’ former living quarters and administrative halls
5. Red Palace: Enter the spiritual center, housing stupas, chapels, and sacred relics
Afternoon: Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street
Jokhang Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site) – The most revered temple in Tibetan Buddhism:
1. Main Hall: Pay homage to the sacred 12-year-old statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, the spiritual heart of Tibet
2. Golden Roof: Enjoy sweeping rooftop views over Jokhang Square and distant Potala Palace
Barkhor Street – The living soul of old Lhasa:
1. Sacred Kora Route: Walk alongside pilgrims performing ritual circumambulation around Jokhang Temple
2. Traditional Market: Browse Tibetan handicrafts, prayer items, and local snacks in the vibrant old quarter
Authentic Tibetan Cultural Experiences:
Tibetan Sweet Tea Time: Take a relaxing break at a traditional local teahouse. Sit down alongside local residents, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and sip authentic Tibetan sweet tea to experience the true rhythm of daily life in Lhasa.
Traditional Tibetan Costume Photoshoot: Dress up in exquisite, traditional Tibetan attire, complete with authentic hairstyles and makeup. A professional photographer will guide you through the historic alleys of Barkhor Street, capturing stunning memories against the iconic backdrop of red walls and prayer wheels.
Evening: Welcome & Celebration
Tibetan Welcome Dinner: In the evening, gather for a grand welcome feast to celebrate your arrival in Tibet. Savor authentic local delicacies and enjoy warm Tibetan hospitality and festive music.
Overnight in Lhasa.
TibetTrip Notice:
Potala Palace requires advance reservation and has a daily visitor limit.
Day 3: Lhasa to Shigatse: Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier
Distance: 360 km (8 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: Hotel in Shigatse
Today, you leave Lhasa and journey across the Tibetan plateau, entering one of the most scenic sections of southern Tibet, where holy lakes, glaciers, and ancient towns unfold along the way.
Morning: Yamdrok Lake & Gampala Pass
Drive to Gampala Pass (4,900m) for your first glimpse of Yamdrok Lake, one of the three holy lakes of Tibet.
1. Panoramic Viewpoint: Witness the lake’s striking blue-green waters winding through snow-capped mountains
2. Sacred Belief: Tibetans believe Yamdrok Lake is the “Life Lake” that protects the region
3. Photography Stop & Yak Ride: Capture unforgettable photos and, optionally, take a short yak ride along the lakeshore
Afternoon: Karola Glacier
Continue along the Friendship Highway to witness Karola Glacier, dramatic glacier descending directly from the Nyenchen Tanglha Range.
1. Close-Up Glacier View: One of the few glaciers in Tibet visible right beside the road
2. Everlasting Ice: Observe massive ice walls and crevasses shaped by time
3. High-Altitude Landscape: Feel the raw power of Tibet’s frozen world
After soaking in the serene atmosphere, continue the drive to Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. Check in at your hotel and rest for the night.
Overnight in Shigatse.
TibetTrip Advice:
Long driving day; be prepared for high-altitude travel.
Day 4: Shigatse to Everest Base Camp: Gyatso La, Gyawu La, Sunset at Everest
Distance: 340 km (8 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast, Tibetan Yak Hotpot | Hotel: EBC Tent Guesthouse or Vienna International Hotel
Today is a day of majestic Himalayan encounters as you journey toward the legendary Everest Base Camp, witnessing Mount Everest four times along the way.
First View: Gyatso La Pass (5,280m)
Your journey begins at Gyatso La Pass, where the first glimpse of Everest appears behind the surrounding peaks.
1. Scenic Wonder: Everest rises like a budding lotus, framed by dramatic highland ridges.
2. Photo Opportunity: Capture your first Himalayan panorama with the world’s highest peak.
Second View: Gawula Pass (5,198m)
Continue into the Mount Everest National Nature Reserve and stop at Gawula Pass.
1. Panoramic Splendor: See the lineup of the five highest Himalayan peaks, with Everest proudly in front.
2. High-Altitude Experience: Stand on the pass and feel the grandeur of the snowy mountains.
Third View: Approaching Everest Base Camp (5,200m)
Drive along the winding zigzag road toward Everest Base Camp, where the peak gradually comes into full view.
1. Unfolding Majesty: Everest’s colossal white pyramid dominates the horizon as you get closer.
2. Immersive Experience: Each turn along the road reveals new perspectives of the northern face.
Fourth View: Sunset at Everest Base Camp
Upon arrival at Everest Base Camp, the peak stands towering before you.
1. Sunset Spectacle: Watch golden sunlight cast a warm glow on Everest’s northern face.
2. Landmarks: Take photos at the 5,200m Base Camp marker and the 8,848m Everest monument.
3. Starlit Sky: At night, the Milky Way illuminates the snow-white summit, creating a truly magical high-altitude moment.
Evening Dining: Authentic Himalayan Feast
After an unforgettable day chasing the highest peaks on Earth, gather for a comforting evening meal.
Tibetan Yak Hotpot: Savor an authentic, steaming Tibetan yak meat hotpot inside the cozy room. It is the perfect, hearty high-altitude meal to keep you warm and replenish your energy on the plateau.
Accommodation Options
Choose your preferred stay based on your comfort level and sightseeing goals for the following morning:
Everest Base Camp Tent Guesthouse: Double-bed rooms without private shower, public toilet only. Offers the most authentic local experience and allows you to view the magnificent Everest sunrise from up close.
Vienna International Hotel: Offers a much better environment and more comfortable accommodation conditions, though staying here means you will miss the Everest sunrise due to its location.
Upgrading to Rongbuk Hotel: The absolute best hotel for viewing Mount Everest. Upgrading to this hotel requires paying a price difference; prices fluctuate by season, so please consult us for specific rates.
TibetTrip Notice:
Visibility of Mount Everest’s North Face depends on weather conditions; night temperatures are very low and bring warm clothing.
Day 5: Everest Base Camp to Shigatse: Mt. Everest Sunrise
Distance: 340 km (8 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: Hotel in Shigatse
Wake up early at Everest Base Camp to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Mount Everest (weather permitting). As the first rays of sunlight touch the towering peak, the golden glow illuminates the northern face, creating a magical high-altitude spectacle. After sunrise, descend and return to Shigatse, enjoying the highland landscapes along the way.
Overnight in Shigatse.
TibetTrip Advice:
Mount Everest Sunrise visibility depends on weather and season; dress warmly.
Day 6: Shigatse to Lhasa: Tashilhunpo Monastery
Distance: 280 km (5 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: Hotel in Lhasa
Start your day with a visit to Tashilhunpo Monastery, one of the most important religious sites in Tibet and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama.
Tashilhunpo Monastery Highlights
1. Qamba Buddha Hall: Marvel at the tallest and largest bronze statue of Qamba Buddha, a masterpiece of Tibetan Buddhist artistry.
2. Stupa Hall of the Tenth Panchen Lama: Standing at 11.55 meters tall, this magnificent stupa is adorned with 614 kg of gold and precious gemstones. According to legend, the remains of the Tenth Panchen Lama rest atop the stupa, making it a sacred site for pilgrims.
After your monastery visit, drive back to Lhasa, check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening.
Overnight in Lhasa.
TibetTrip Advice:
Photography may be restricted inside some halls; follow the guide’s instructions.
Day 7: Lhasa to Namtso and Back: Namtso Lake, Northern Tibet Grasslands
Distance: 500 km (10 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: Hotel in Lhasa
Today features an epic journey to Namtso Lake, one of the three most sacred lakes in Tibet and a breathtaking natural wonderland nestled high on the northern plateau.
Morning to Afternoon: Journey Across the Roof of the World & Namtso Exploration
Namtso Lake (Heavenly Lake) – One of the highest saltwater lakes in the world (4,718m), celebrated for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrops:
Northern Tibet Grasslands (Changtang): Drive across the vast, open plains of northern Tibet. Pass along scenic sections of the famous Qinghai-Tibet Highway, where you can spot grazing herds of yaks and sheep and glimpse the traditional nomadic lifestyle.
Nyainqentanglha Mountain Range: Enjoy sweeping, distant views of these magnificent snow-capped peaks that stand as sacred guardians over the northern plateau.
Nagenla Pass (5,190m): Cross this high-altitude mountain pass, offering your very first breathtaking panoramic view of Namtso Lake shimmering in the distance.
Namtso Lake Shoreline: Arrive at the holy lake to walk along its pristine shores. Marvel at the striking contrast of the deep blue waters against the snow-covered mountains, capturing some of the most spectacular landscape photos on the Tibetan Plateau.
Late Afternoon: Return to Lhasa
Tranquil Drive Back to the Holy City:
Changtang Grassland Scenery: Bid farewell to the sacred lake and head south back toward Lhasa, continuing to enjoy the changing afternoon light over the wild northern grasslands.
Lhasa Arrival: Arrive back at your hotel in Lhasa in the evening to rest after a long but deeply rewarding day of high-altitude exploration.
If winter snowstorms block the high-altitude Nagenla Pass (5,190m) making Namtso Lake inaccessible, your itinerary will automatically switch to an immersive cultural day inside Lhasa city, combining unique spiritual traditions with hands-on local crafts.
Morning: Visit to Zaki Temple
Zaki Temple (Zhakye Monastery) – The only temple in Tibet dedicated to the Goddess of Wealth:
Unique Spiritual Experience: Pay a morning visit to this lively, unique temple. Unlike other monasteries, pilgrims here traditionally offer barley wine and white khatas to the protector deity, Zhari Lhamo, to pray for good fortune and prosperity.
Local Religious Life: Walk among local merchants and residents to observe one of the most vibrant, authentic, and distinct local religious customs in Lhasa.
Afternoon: Traditional Tibetan Incense Workshop
Handicraft Experience – Dive into the ancient art of Tibetan Incense making (UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage):
Artisan Workshop: Visit a traditional Tibetan incense workshop to learn about the history and natural ingredients—such as saffron, sandalwood, and unique highland herbs—used in this sacred craft.
DIY Incense Making: Under the guidance of a local master, try your hand at grinding the materials and using the traditional horn-shaped tools to roll your own incense sticks.
Cultural Souvenir: Take your handmade Tibetan incense home with you as a deeply meaningful, aromatic keepsake of your time on the roof of the world.
Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 8: Lhasa Departure: Transfer to Airport or Train Station
Distance: 70 km (1 hr driving) to the airport; 20 km (30 min driving) to the train station | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: /
At the conclusion of your Tibet journey, our tour guide and driver will escort you to Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station. Enjoy a comfortable ride and take in the final glimpses of Lhasa. Make sure to confirm your departure time with your guide to allow ample time for check-in and security procedures.
Thank you for choosing TibetTrip. We hope your Tibetan adventure leaves lasting memories, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future!
TibetTrip Notice:
Free drop-off: Airport (08:30–22:30), Train station (24 hours).
8-Day Lhasa Everest Namtso Tour Date and Package Price
Everest Base Camp Tour Cost (Based on Travel Time)
All prices are quoted in US dollars per person and are based on 4-star hotel accommodation.
A single room supplement applies to solo travelers who request a private room.
| Travel Time / Tour Price |
Jan.1-Feb.28 Nov.16-Dec.31 |
Mar.1-Jun.30 Oct.1-Nov.15 |
Jul.1-Sept.30 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 pax | $950 | $1029 | $1177 |
2026 Lhasa Everest Namtso Tour Departures and Bookings
| Arrival Date | Booked | Book Now |
|---|---|---|
| Jul. 2026 | ||
| 2026-07-05 | $1177 | Book |
| 2026-07-10 | $1177 | Book |
| 2026-07-15 | $1177 | Book |
| 2026-07-20 | $1177 | Book |
| 2026-07-25 | $1177 | Book |
| Aug. 2026 | ||
| 2026-08-05 | $1177 | Book |
| 2026-08-10 | $1177 | Book |
| 2026-08-15 | $1177 | Book |
| 2026-08-20 | $1177 | Book |
| 2026-08-25 | $1177 | Book |
| Sept. 2026 | ||
| 2026-09-05 | $1177 | Book |
| 2026-09-10 | $1177 | Book |
| 2026-09-15 | $1177 | Book |
| 2026-09-20 | $1177 | Book |
| 2026-09-25 | $1177 | Book |
| Oct. 2026 | ||
| 2026-10-05 | $1029 | Book |
| 2026-10-10 | $1029 | Book |
| 2026-10-20 | $1029 | Book |
| 2026-10-25 | $1029 | Book |
| Nov. 2026 | ||
| 2026-11-05 | $1029 | Book |
| 2026-11-10 | $1029 | Book |
| 2026-11-15 | $1029 | Book |
| 2026-11-20 | $950 | Book |
| 2026-11-25 | $950 | Book |
| Dec. 2026 | ||
| 2026-12-05 | $950 | Book |
| 2026-12-10 | $950 | Book |
| 2026-12-15 | $950 | Book |
| 2026-12-20 | $950 | Book |
| 2026-12-25 | $950 | Book |
Lhasa Everest Namtso Tour Inclusions:
- 1. Tibet Permits: Tibet Travel Permit
- 2. Transportation: 9-17 seat tourist vehicle
- 3. Accommodation: 6 nights in twin-sharing rooms (4-star standard); 1 night in EBC Tent Guesthouse (multi-bed sharing) or Vienna International Hotel
- 4. Meals: 7 breakfasts in hotel，Tibetan Sweet Tea，Tibetan Welcome Dinner，Tibetan Yak Hotpot at EBC
- 5. Guide: Professional English-speaking local Tibetan guide
- 6. Entrance Tickets: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier, Everest Base Camp + Eco-bus, Tashilhunpo Monastery，Namtso Lake
- 7. Oxygen and Water: 1 bottle of portable oxygen for emergencies; 4L medical oxygen cylinder in the car; 1 bottle of 300ml drinking water per person per day
- 8. Travel Insurance: Travel agency liability insurance. Vehicle seat insurance
- 9. Service Fees: All taxes, fees, and handling charges; reservation fee for visiting Potala Palace; lodging and dining subsidies for guide and driver
- 10. Pick-Up and Drop-Off: Free pick-up at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (8:00 am to 10:00 pm); Free drop-off at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (8:30 am to 10:30 pm); Free pick-up and drop-off at Lhasa Train Station (24 hours)
Lhasa Everest Namtso Tour Exclusions:
- 1. Personal Expenses: Laundry, drinks, phone calls, optional activities
- 2. Single Room Supplement (if requested)
- 3. Meals: Lunch and dinner not mentioned in the itinerary
- 4. Tickets: International and domestic flight/train tickets
- 5. Tipping: Tips for guides and drivers
- 6. China Visa: Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa) application fees
- 7. Exceptional Events: Extra charges due to irresistible reasons (e.g., weather, road closures).
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