8-Days To Everest Base Comp Small Group Tour
Tour Route: Lhasa - Shigatse - Everest Base Camp - Shigatse - Lhasa
This is the most popular Everest Base Camp tour. At your arrival in Lhasa, you will be greeted by the lovely blue skies and an impressive glimpse at the gigantic Potala Palace, perched on a red hill. You’ll begin your stay at the holy city of Lhasa visiting its prominent historical and religious sites like the Potala Palace, Jokhang temple, Sera and Drepung monasteries. Then you will drive into the terrains of the young Himalayan region, the sprawling holy Yamdrok Lake, the thriving Karo la glaciers, the mystical Gyantse Khubum stupa and the Tashi Lhunpo monastery. The Himalayan terrain is comprised of many different geological formations and a superb panorama of the Himalayan mountain range. You’ll spend a night at the foot of the world, the tallest mountain in the world, Mt. Everest. You may take a short hike of 6km at the Mt. Everest Base Camp (EBC), quite challenging at the high altitude, then we will retrace the road back to Lhasa, driving along the Northern friendship highway
Highlights
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Get impressed by the brilliant Potala Palace and revered Jokhang Temple in holy Lhasa.
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Follow monks and pilgrims around the Barkhor Street, Lhasa’s fascinating medieval pilgrim circuit.
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Marvel at the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s most sacred lakes.
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Visit the dazzling Gyantse Kumbum, a monumental chorten with mural-filled chapels.
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Worship before a 26-meter gold Buddha at Tashilhunpo Monastery, a walled complex the size of a village.
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Make it to the Everest Base Camp and enjoy superb scenery of the north face of Mt. Everest and the Rongbuk monastery.
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Time to Visit : Available All Year Around
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Tour Type: Small Group (Max 12) I.
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Trip Level : Easy for All Agesi
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Tour Price from: USD 939 per person based on double occupancy in hotels.
Daily Itinerary
Day 1: When you arrive in Lhasa either by train or flight, your guide will greet you and take you to your hotel. The distance from the airport to Lhasa is about 70km, approximately 1:30 hrs. drive. The distance from the train station is only 25km, about 30 minutes’ drive. Tourists may view the Yarlung Tsangpo River / Bhamaputra River (the Longest and largest river in Tibet) and Lhasa River on their way to Lhasa. After arriving in Lhasa, you can take a rest and get acclimatized to high altitude. If you feel like venturing out into the city, then try to visit the Potala Square, where you will enjoy the fountain with different colors and get amazing photos of the Potala Palace and its surroundings. Insider Tips: For the new comers to Tibet, to get acclimatized to the high altitude in Tibet having a good night sleep in your hotel is the best choice. Don’t rush to visit attractions inside Lhasa city, there will be plenty of time to do that. Day 2: Today’s tour brings you to the Potala Palace which is the winter palace of the Dalai Lama. The most valuable collections of the Potala Palace are the gilded burial stupas of former Dalai Lamas and the meditation Cave of the 33rd great king of Tibet. After visiting the Potala Palace we will have lunch around there. After lunch, we will head out to Jokhang temple which was founded by the 33rd great king of Tibet in the 7th century. Inside you will see the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni at the age of twelve. Outside, you can see pilgrims making prostrating in front of the Jokhang Temple. Around the temple is Barkhor Street, where you can do kora (a religious circle of a building or mountain) with pilgrims and locals, and explore the old market. With time permitting, you may go with your tour guide to visit a Tibetan handicraft art center or a Tibetan Traditional Medicine center. You can upgrade your service to enjoy a Tibetan Culture Show in the evening ($60 for per person) We’ll take you back to your hotel. Day 3:In the morning, you will visit the Drepung monastery which is one of the “great three” Gelug monasteries in Tibet, founded in 1416 by Jamyang choge, one of the Tsongkhapa’s main disciples. You can visit the biggest monastery kitchen inside the monastery and enjoy Buddhist Sculpture Carving workshop near Drepung. In the afternoon, the group will visit the Sera Monastery which is another one of the “great three” Gelug monasteries in Tibet. The hot attraction is the monks’ debate at around 3 – 5 p.m. In addition, you can tour the Tibetan religious scripture printing house; inside the monastery, you will see three sand Mandalas and a colorful Rock Painting of Buddha. Day 4: After exploring Lhasa, you'll travel overland to Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest city. Along the way, immerse yourself in Tibet's splendid scenery and discover the leisurely lives of local villagers. The first stop will be at Yamdrok Lake, one of the three holiest lakes in Tibet. This stunning lake unveils its beauty from the Gambala Mountain Pass (4790m), curving like a blue ribbon, while the towering Mt. Noijin Kangsang (7191m) can be seen in the distance. As you descend to the lakeshore, explore various viewpoints offering intimate encounters with the lake's shoreline. Towards the lake's end, you'll have the opportunity to visit a welcoming local family in the village and have lunch with them. Next, you'll pass by the Karola Glacier (5100m). Positioned right by the roadside, it resembles a serene maiden grooming herself while gazing from afar at the majestic snow-capped mountains. Continuing your journey towards Gyantse, you'll make a stop at Simila Mountain Pass. Here, you can hang prayer flags, offering prayers for global peace and the well-being of your loved ones. Upon arrival in Gyantse, seize the opportunity to capture memorable photos of the ancient city. En route from Gyantse to Shigatse, you will witness vast stretches of lush green barley fields (in summer) and golden fields (in autumn), alongside numerous farms. Finally, upon reaching Shigatse and checking into the hotel, take a moment to relax and prepare for the upcoming trip to Mount Everest the following day. Stay overnight in Shigatse. Day 5: Shigatse to Everest Base Camp (B)In the morning, you will set off towards Mount Everest after breakfast. Beginning with the Gyatsola Pass (5280m), the viewpoint offers your first glimpse of Mount Everest. Veiled within the mountain range, Everest resembles a budding lotus flower, a captivating sight along the roadside. Continuing into Mount Everest National Nature Reserve, the Gawula Pass (5198m) presents a panoramic view of the Himalayas. Here, you will see the breathtaking lineup of the five world's highest peaks in the Himalayan range, all towering above 8000 meters. This is your second glimpse of Mount Everest. Then traverse the new winding road toward Everest Base Camp (5200m), each turn reveals a closer perspective of the majestic Everest, gradually unfolding before you. This marks your third view of the Everest. Upon arrival at Everest Base Camp, the huge white pyramid peak stands tall before you. As dusk approaches, the setting sun casts warm golden hues upon Everest's northern face—your fourth view.As night descends, the glistening Milky Way alongside the snow-white peak of Mount Everest offers your fifth and final encounter with the majestic peak. Stay overnight at Everest Base Camp or in the nearby village if the EBC tent hotels close during the winter season. Warm Tips: 1. Everest Base Camp sits at an altitude of 5200 meters, and it's common to experience headaches and difficulty sleeping at night due to altitude. This is a normal occurrence, so there's no need to panic. Continue to take it slow, relax, and savor the beauty of Everest. The symptoms will gradually ease. 2. The visibility of Mount Everest depends on weather conditions and cannot be assured. 3. From November to March, the tent hotels at Everest Base Camp usually close. Hence, if you're traveling during this period, your accommodation choices are restricted to the nearby village near EBC. Day 6: EBC - Dinggye - Sakya - Shigatse (B,D) After marveling at the magnificence of Mount Everest, you will travel back to Shigatse along another Himalayan scenic route, once again appreciating the beauty of the Himalayas. Before departing from EBC, you'll visit the world's highest monastery, Rongbuk Monastery (5154 meters). This Tibetan Nyingma monastery sits in close proximity to Mount Everest and is a place where nuns and monks reside together. Then, you will travel back to Shigatse via Dinggye, following an alternative Himalayan route diverging from the traditional path. At the Dinggye Xilin Viewpoint, you'll pause to behold not only the majestic eastern slope of towering Mount Everest but also catch sight of Mount Lhotse, the world's fourth-highest peak, rising at an elevation of 8,516 meters. You'll also enjoy the expansive and charming wetland landscape at the foot of Mount Everest. While passing through Sakya Ancient Town, you will take a brief rest, spending some time taking a leisurely stroll around this ancient town. After returning to Shigatse, your guide will take you to the local Langma Hall, where you can watch a traditional Tibetan song and dance performance, and enjoy dinner with your fellow group members. Stay overnight in Shigatse. Please note: During heavy summer rains or winter snowstorms, your travel route back to Shigatse from Mount Everest may change. Instead of passing through Dinggye and Sakya, you might travel via Gawula Pass and Tingri. If this adjustment is necessary, we'll provide you with a written notice while you're in Tibet. Day 7: Shigatse - Nyemo - Lhasa (B) In the morning, you will explore the residence of the Panchen Lama, Tashilhunpo Monastery, which is also the largest monastery in Shigatse. This expansive monastery occupies the hillside, housing the world's largest statue of Maitreya Buddha, serving as the spiritual heart of Shigatse. You can see monks, wearing yellow hats and red robes, walking through the temple. If you are lucky, you will also see a Dharma ceremony held in the temple. Then, you will journey back to Lhasa along the Yarlung Tsangpo River, revered as the Mother River of Tibetans. Stay overnight in Lhasa. Day 8: Finish This Unforgettable Tour and Depart from Lhasa (B) Today your guide will transfer you to the airport or train station and help you get on board. Please confirm your departure flight or train details in advance with your guide. The tour ends.
What's Included?
1. Tibet travel documents such as Tibet Travel Permit (excluding expedited processing fees), and delivery of the permit to your hotel in mainland of China. 2. Standard tourist vehicles based on the number of group members, ensuring one seat one person. Experienced local drivers offer attentive service. 3. Three-star hotels throughout the itinerary (upgrades available for an additional fee; single room supplement required when not sharing). 4. All meals listed in the itinerary. (Meal fees are non-refundable if declined due to personal reasons). 5. Excellent local Tibetan English-speaking tour guide (Prices for guides speaking other languages may be subject to separate negotiation). 6. Admission tickets for all tourist attractions listed in Itinerary. 7. Travel accident insurance. 8. Free shuttle between Lhasa Railway Station and the downtown hotel. Free transfers between Lhasa Gonggar Airport and the downtown hotel during specific times. 9. Other services: exquisite Tibetan souvenirs, tourist map, portable oxygen, medical oxygen in the vehicle, bottled mineral water, and more.
What's Excluded?
1. Chinese Visa (for any visa assistance services, please contact us for details) 2.International airfare to and from China or Nepal 3. Flight or train tickets to Tibet out of Tibet (If you need ticket booking service, please let us know) 4. Single Room Supplement: Hotels are based on double occupancy (twin-bedded rooms) by default. If you prefer a single room or if room sharing isn’t possible, a single room supplement is required (please consult the travel consultant for specific price differences). 5. Lunch and dinner in the cities and all meals outside of Lhasa and Shigatse 6. Tips to the guide and driver based on your satisfaction with their services. We recommend paying a total of $7 per person per day for both the guide and driver. 7. Additional expenses resulting from force majeure events (such as natural disasters, traffic controls, loss of valuables, visa delays, flight delays, cancellations, Travel insurance and Medical expenses, etc.). 8. Personal expenses: laundry, shopping, phone calls, etc.
1. When is the deadline to book this 8-day Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour?
To ensure a seamless trip, it is recommended to book your Tibet tour at least 15-20 days before the departure date. Certainly, booking your tour 1-2 months or earlier in advance will assist us in arranging your Tibet Travel Permit and other necessary documents, as well as securing accommodations. Additionally, early bookings may qualify for early-bird discounts. This arrangement facilitates better preparation and a more relaxed journey.
2. What travel documents are required for a trip to Tibet Everest Base Camp?
For traveling to Tibet Everest Base Camp, various tourists require specific travel documents: 1) Foreign tourists: Passport, Chinese Visa, Tibet Travel Permit, Alien’s Travel Permit 2) Tourists from Hong Kong and Macau: Home Return Permit, Frontier Pass 3) Tourists from Taiwan: Mainland Travel Permit (MTP), Tibet Travel Permit, etc.
3. How to apply for the Tibet Travel Permit? How long does It take, and when can I get the permit?
For foreign tourists applying for the Tibet Travel Permit, photos or photocopies of a valid passport and Chinese Visa are needed. Holders of a working visa need to additionally provide a work certificate, while student visa holders require student certification. However, Taiwanese tourists only need to provide photos or photocopies of Mainland Travel Permit for the Tibet Travel Permit application. Generally, processing the Tibet Travel Permit takes 7-14 working days. Once the permit is successfully issued, we'll mail it to your address in mainland of China 3-5 days before your departure date, ensuring you have it in hand for your train or flight to Tibet.
4. What is the altitude of Everest Base Camp? What should I do If altitude sickness occurs?
Everest Base Camp in Tibetan side is situated at an altitude of 5200 meters, making it one of the highest points on this journey. Visitors who are new to high-altitude areas may experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness such as dizziness and headaches. Our thoughtfully planned 8-day itinerary from Nyingchi to Everest Base Camp allows for 2-3 days of acclimatization in Lhasa, situated at an altitude of 3650 meters, before proceeding to higher altitudes like Shigatse and Everest Base Camp. This gradual ascent minimizes the chances of severe altitude reactions. If severe symptoms occur, such as intense headaches or breathing difficulties, promptly use oxygen, inform your guide, and seek medical attention as soon as possible. If necessary, immediate descent to lower altitudes like Shigatse Town or Tingri County may be arranged.
5. When is the best time to visit Mount Everest in Tibet?
The best season to visit Tibet Everest Base Camp is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these periods, the weather tends to be stable and clear, providing favorable conditions for observing Mount Everest. Additionally, in the summer months (July-August), although Tibet experiences its rainy season, most rainfall occurs at night, and daytime skies remain mostly clear with comfortable temperatures, making it a viable option. During winter (November to March of the following year), temperatures are lower, yet days are often clear, allowing for a better appreciation of Mount Everest's starry skies and the Milky Way. Winter marks the off-season for tourism in Tibet, offering lower tour prices for visits to Mount Everest, making it a more cost-effective choice.
6. Are there instances when mount Everest might not be visible? What should I do If that happens?
Due to factors like high altitude and ever-changing weather, there might be times when Mount Everest isn't visible during the visit. However, this isn't a common occurrence. To increase the likelihood of seeing Mount Everest, it's best to plan your visit to Everest Base Camp during the stable weather seasons of spring and autumn. Even if there's rain, showers around Mount Everest tend to pass quickly. Of course, you can always reach out to our experienced travel advisors before your trip to get insights into Mount Everest's weather conditions. To maximize your chance of spotting Mount Everest, our itinerary provides four opportunities to witness its beauty; at least one should offer a clear view. Furthermore, before heading to Mount Everest, keeping a positive mindset and appreciating the diverse beauty of Tibet, not solely focused on Mount Everest, is important. Even if you miss seeing Mount Everest, the surrounding breathtaking natural scenery and unique plateau landscapes will still captivate you. Missing a sunset may lead to a stunning sunrise. The journey to Mount Everest is about more than just the mountain itself; it's an adventure embracing natural marvels and the mesmerizing plateau scenery.
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