Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, a representative from Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can relax and recover from your journey. If time permits, you may explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, a popular tourist hub filled with restaurants, shops, and cultural sights. In the evening, a welcome dinner will be organized where you will meet your guide and get a brief introduction to the adventure ahead.
After breakfast, your cultural exploration of Kathmandu Valley begins with a guided sightseeing tour. Your first stop is Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards. Here, you will witness the living goddess Kumari and explore historic sites like Hanuman Dhoka Palace. Next, you visit Patan Durbar Square, renowned for its exquisite architecture, Krishna Temple, and intricately designed courtyards. In the afternoon, you visit Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, a revered Buddhist site perched on a hill offering panoramic views of Kathmandu.
Today, you head to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, an ancient city famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, pagoda-style temples, and pottery culture. You will explore landmarks like Nyatapola Temple, 55-Window Palace, and Dattatreya Square. Afterward, you visit Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, where you may witness Hindu cremation rituals along the Bagmati River. Finally, the day concludes at Boudhanath Stupa, the largest stupa in Nepal and an important pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. The serene atmosphere here, with monks chanting prayers, is a truly spiritual experience.
Today is a leisure day in Kathmandu, allowing you to explore at your own pace. You can stroll around Thamel, shop for souvenirs like Tibetan carpets, handicrafts, and pashmina shawls, or revisit any sites of interest. If you’re interested, you may opt for an Everest mountain flight for a breathtaking aerial view of the Himalayas. This is also a great opportunity to prepare for your Tibet journey.
After breakfast, you take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (3,650m), you will be greeted by our Tibetan guide and transferred to your hotel. Since Lhasa is at a higher altitude, today is dedicated to rest and acclimatization. You can take a short walk around your hotel to adapt to the new environment but avoid exerting yourself too much.
Your Tibetan exploration begins with a visit to the iconic Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama. This architectural marvel houses thousands of rooms filled with sacred relics, murals, and statues. Next, you visit Sera Monastery, famous for its lively monk debates, where young monks engage in philosophical discussions. Finally, you explore Norbulingka Palace, the former summer residence of the Dalai Lama, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Today, you explore Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world, housing thousands of monks. Next, you visit Jokhang Temple, the most sacred temple in Tibet, where Buddhist pilgrims from all over the region come to pray. Afterward, you stroll through Barkhor Street, a bustling market surrounding Jokhang Temple, where you can observe Tibetan culture and shop for unique handicrafts.
Leaving Lhasa, Scenic drive towards Gyantse, passing through stunning landscapes. Along the way, you stop at Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s most beautiful turquoise lakes, believed to be a sacred lifeline. You also cross two high mountain passes, Kora La (5,010m) and Kamba La (4,794m), offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Gyantse, you check into your hotel and explore the small Tibetan town.
After breakfast, you visit Gyantse Kumbum, a magnificent multi-tiered Buddhist stupa with intricate murals and statues. You then drive to Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. Here, you explore Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama and home to a massive statue of the Future Buddha. The monastery’s vibrant murals and prayer halls provide insight into Tibetan Buddhism.
Today, you continue your journey towards Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world near Everest Base Camp. En route, you stop at Sakya Monastery, a fortress-like structure housing valuable Buddhist scriptures and murals. As you approach Rongbuk, you get your first mesmerizing views of Mount Everest (Chomolungma). You stay overnight in a basic guesthouse near Rongbuk, experiencing the raw beauty of the Tibetan Plateau.
This morning, you have the opportunity to witness a spectacular sunrise over Mount Everest before beginning your descent towards the Nepal-Tibet border. The drive to Kerung (Gyirong) takes you through rugged landscapes, remote Tibetan villages, and high mountain passes. Upon arrival in Kerung, you settle in for the night, preparing for your return to Nepal.
After completing border formalities, you re-enter Nepal and drive back to Kathmandu. The journey takes you through lush green valleys, waterfalls, and the scenic Langtang region. Once in Kathmandu, you check into your hotel and relax after the long drive.
Today is a leisure day in Kathmandu. You can explore more cultural sites, visit Garden of Dreams, or indulge in a spa or massage to unwind. If you wish, you can also join an optional cooking class to learn traditional Nepali cuisine. In the evening, a farewell dinner will be organized to celebrate your successful adventure.
After breakfast, our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. As you board your flight home, you carry unforgettable memories of the Kathmandu-Tibet-Everest Base Camp Tour, a journey filled with cultural discoveries, breathtaking landscapes, and spiritual experiences.
Yes, travelers require both a Chinese Group Visa and a Tibet Travel Permit to enter Tibet. Since individual visas are not valid for Tibet entry, Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition will handle all necessary paperwork to secure these permits. The process takes a few working days, and we will guide you through it. It’s important to arrive in Kathmandu at least 4-5 days before your departure to Tibet to process your visa. Additionally, other travel permits like the Alien Travel Permit and Military Permit may be required, which we will also arrange.
This tour is moderately challenging, primarily due to the high altitude and long driving hours. While there is no trekking involved, travelers will cross multiple high passes, with the highest point being Everest Base Camp at 5,200m. The main challenge is altitude sickness, so proper acclimatization, hydration, and physical fitness are essential. The roads in Tibet can also be rough in some areas, so be prepared for long but scenic drives. However, with proper preparation, most travelers in good health can complete this journey comfortably.
The best time for this trip is April to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is relatively stable, and visibility is excellent for mountain views and cultural sightseeing. Spring (April-June) offers mild temperatures and clear skies, while autumn (September-November) provides crisp air, stunning landscapes, and fewer crowds. The winter months (December-February) can be extremely cold, and summer (July-August) may bring monsoon rains in Nepal, though Tibet remains dry.
In Kathmandu and Lhasa, travelers stay in comfortable hotels with modern amenities. As the journey moves into remote areas like Gyantse, Shigatse, and Everest Base Camp, accommodations become more basic, with simple guesthouses and lodges. At Rongbuk Monastery near Everest Base Camp, expect very basic dormitory-style rooms with shared facilities. While comfort may be limited, the breathtaking scenery and cultural experience make up for it.
In major cities like Kathmandu and Lhasa, you will find a variety of restaurants serving Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and Western cuisine. As you travel further into Tibet, meal options become more limited, mostly including Tibetan and Chinese dishes like thukpa (noodle soup), momo (dumplings), fried rice, and yak-based dishes. At Everest Base Camp, meals are basic but nourishing, typically including soup, rice, noodles, and vegetables. It is advisable to bring some snacks, dry fruits, and instant foods for personal preference.
Yes, altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness – AMS) is a major concern as you will be traveling at high altitudes. The itinerary includes proper acclimatization days in Lhasa to help your body adjust. Symptoms of AMS include headache, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. To minimize risks, it is recommended to stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, ascend gradually, and listen to your guide’s instructions. Oxygen cylinders and first-aid kits will be available, and in severe cases, travelers may need to descend for safety.
The roads in Tibet have improved significantly, but some sections remain rough, especially near Everest Base Camp. The journey includes long drives through high mountain passes and valleys, so travelers should be prepared for bumpy rides in some areas. Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition provides comfortable private vehicles with experienced Tibetan drivers to ensure a safe and smooth journey.
Weather varies depending on altitude and season. In Kathmandu (1,300m) and Lhasa (3,650m), temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C in spring and autumn. As you move towards Everest Base Camp (5,200m), temperatures drop significantly, with daytime temperatures around 5°C to 15°C and nighttime temperatures reaching as low as -10°C to -15°C. Warm clothing, including thermal layers, down jackets, gloves, and hats, is essential for higher altitudes.
In Kathmandu and Lhasa, Wi-Fi and mobile networks are widely available in hotels and restaurants. As you travel deeper into Tibet, network coverage becomes limited, especially in remote areas like Everest Base Camp and Rongbuk Monastery. It is advisable to purchase a Chinese SIM card in Lhasa for better connectivity. Keep in mind that certain websites and social media platforms may be restricted in Tibet, so using a VPN can be helpful.
Packing appropriately is crucial for a comfortable journey. Essential items include:
Warm clothing (thermal layers, fleece, down jacket, gloves, hats).
Good quality trekking shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm for sun protection.
Personal medications, first-aid kit, and altitude sickness tablets.
Reusable water bottle & water purification tablets.
Snacks, energy bars, and dry fruits for long travel days.
Cash (Chinese Yuan) as ATMs are scarce in remote areas.
With years of experience in Tibet tours, Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition ensures a well-organized, safe, and culturally enriching journey. Our team provides:
Expert Tibetan & Nepali guides with deep knowledge of history, culture, and altitude safety.
Carefully planned itinerary with proper acclimatization and comfortable accommodations.
Seamless permit & visa processing, making your trip hassle-free.
Well-maintained private vehicles for a smooth and comfortable journey.
24/7 support and emergency assistance, including oxygen supply if needed.
Booking is simple! Contact Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition via our website, email, or phone. Our team will guide you through the booking process, visa requirements, and necessary preparations. Early booking is recommended to secure permits and best accommodations.
Join us for this once-in-a-lifetime journey to Everest Base Camp via Tibet, where you’ll experience the rich culture of Lhasa, the vast Tibetan plateau, and the grandeur of Mount Everest!
