Description
10-Day Tibet Grand Expedition: From Sacred Lakes to Everest’s Summit
| Travel Date | Age | Total Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| May 10, 20, 30 | 18-65 years old | 1749 |
| June 10, 20, 30 | 18-65 years old | 1946 |
| July 10, 20, 30 | 18-65 years old | 1946 |
| August 10, 20, 30 | 18-65 years old | 2008 |
| September 10, 20 | 18-65 years old | 1946 |
10-Day Itinerary
+ Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa – Airport Pickup & Hotel Check-in
Lhasa, meaning "Sacred Land" or "Buddhist Land" in Tibetan, is considered the spiritual heart of Tibet. Once remote and mysterious, the city is now more accessible thanks to the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. However, beyond the bustling streets and modern touches, Lhasa remains a place of deep cultural and spiritual significance. Get ready to uncover its hidden wonders!
Important Notes:
Today is a rest day with no scheduled activities.
For first-time visitors to Tibet, acclimatization is crucial. You may experience altitude sickness to varying degrees. Drink plenty of water, eat fruits, and rest well to help your body adjust.
Avoid alcohol, minimize smoking, and refrain from showering on the first night.
Recommended Visit:
Barkhor Street: Dating back to the 7th century, Barkhor Street originally formed as a pilgrimage route around Jokhang Temple. Over time, it evolved into Lhasa’s historic old town, preserving the city’s traditional architecture and way of life. Today, it serves as both a religious hub and a vibrant commercial center where visitors can experience authentic Tibetan culture, browse handcrafted souvenirs, and witness the daily devotion of Tibetan Buddhists.
Hotel: Ctrip Four-diamond Hotel
+ Day 2: Lhasa to Shigatse – Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier & More
Highlights of the Day:
Yamdrok Lake (1.5-hour drive) – One of Tibet’s three sacred lakes, also called “Jade Lake” in Tibetan. Sitting at an altitude of 4,441 meters, it spans 638 square kilometers and boasts stunning turquoise waters. A key filming location for the movie Red River Valley.
Karola Glacier (30-minute stop) – A magnificent ice formation often referred to as the "Sleeping Beauty of Tibet." Its crystal-clear blue ice creates a mesmerizing view.
Gyantse (Lunch Stop at 11:30 AM) – Enjoy a meal in Langkazi County before continuing to Gyantse, known as the "Heroic City" of Tibet.
Pelkor Chode Monastery & Kumbum Stupa (Optional Visit) – A unique temple-stupa complex, showcasing Tibetan Buddhist architecture from the 13th-15th centuries. Often called the "King of Tibetan Stupas," it remains one of the most well-preserved ancient Tibetan structures.
Witness Tibetan pilgrims performing prostrations along the route to Shigatse, a humbling and awe-inspiring spiritual practice.
Arrive in Shigatse (3,950m altitude) around 7:30 PM and check in to your hotel for the night.
+ Day 3: Shigatse to Saga – Monasteries, Grasslands & Wildlife
Highlights of the Day:
Tashilhunpo Monastery (2-2.5 hours visit) – Founded in 1447, this is the residence of the Panchen Lamas and one of the most significant monasteries in Tibetan Buddhism. It houses an impressive 26-meter-tall statue of the Maitreya Buddha and a rich collection of Buddhist relics.
Lhatse & Sang Sang Grasslands – Marvel at the endless grasslands dotted with yaks and nomadic tents. The Sang Sang Prairie offers stunning views of rolling meadows against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
Chela Mountain Pass (4,915m) – A high-altitude pass along the journey, offering panoramic views of the surrounding snowfields.
Diverse Wildlife – Keep an eye out for wild donkeys, Tibetan antelopes, rock sheep, and yellow ducks along the lakes and valleys.
Arrive in Saga and check in to your accommodation for the night.
+ Day 4: Saga to Darchen (via Zhongba & Lake Manasarovar)
Highlights of the Day:
Lake Manasarovar (Distant View) – The highest freshwater lake in the world, known for its crystal-clear waters. It is revered by four major religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.
Rakshas Tal (Ghost Lake) – A stark contrast to Manasarovar, this saltwater lake is said to have mystical properties. According to Tibetan legends, it represents the duality of good and evil.
Mount Kailash (Distant View) – One of the most sacred mountains in the world, worshipped as the "Center of the Universe" by multiple religions. Its near-perfect pyramid shape adds to its divine mystique.
After a scenic drive, arrive in Darchen, the base town for Kailash Kora (circumambulation). Overnight stay in Darchen.
+ Day 5: Darchen to Zanda – Ancient Kingdom & Unique Landscapes
Highlights of the Day:
Mount Kailash Sunrise – Witness the golden rays of sunrise illuminating the sacred mountain, an unforgettable spiritual experience.
Zanda Earth Forest (Zhada Clay Forest) – A surreal landscape shaped over millions of years by wind and water erosion, resembling a vast maze of natural rock formations.
Guge Kingdom Ruins – An ancient Tibetan civilization that mysteriously disappeared. Explore 300+ caves, Buddhist stupas, temples, and underground tunnels, offering a glimpse into Tibet’s lost history.
Tholing Monastery (Distant View) – A monastery blending Tibetan, Indian, and Nepalese architectural styles, dating back over 900 years.
After a full day of exploration, return to Darchen for the night.
+Day 6: Darchen – Zhongba – Saga
Road Conditions: Excellent paved road
Altitude: 4,000m (13,123 ft)
Highlights of the Day:
Mount Kailash, Lake Manasarovar (Sacred Lake), Lake Rakshastal (Ghost Lake), Gongzhu Lake
Departing from Darchen at 8 AM, we’ll journey between Mount Kailash and the majestic Naimona’nyi Peak as the morning sun rises. Our first stop is Lake Manasarovar, revered as the “Mother of all Rivers in the World.” Next to it lies Lake Rakshastal, also known as the “Ghost Lake.” Unlike the sacred freshwater Manasarovar, Rakshastal is a saltwater lake, often associated with mystery due to its deep blue color and folklore. Despite its eerie reputation, the lake's beauty is undeniable—its dark red hills and white pebble shores create a surreal landscape. Travelers who venture closer often find its serenity captivating.
After a distant view of Gongzhu Lake, we continue to Saga, where we will check in to our hotel for the night.
+ Day 7: Saga – Shishapangma – Peiku Tso – Everest Nature Reserve (Basum Village)
Road Conditions: Well-paved roads
Altitude: 5,190m (17,027 ft)
Highlights of the Day: Peiku Tso Lake, Shishapangma Peak, Mount Everest, Rongbuk Monastery
After breakfast, we drive to the Shishapangma Glacier, part of the magnificent Himalayas. Shishapangma Peak stands at 8,012 meters (26,286 ft) and is the 14th highest mountain in the world—the only one entirely within China. The glacier formations here, between 5,000–5,800 meters, resemble a frozen wonderland, glistening under the sunlight.
Next, we visit Peiku Tso, the largest lake in the Shigatse region, covering over 300 square kilometers. The surrounding landscape is home to rare Tibetan highland species. Continuing toward Mount Everest Base Camp, we traverse gravel roads, passing through the Lalongla Mountain Pass and spotting rare wildlife like sunbirds and langurs along the way.
Our journey takes us to Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest monastery at 4,980m (16,339 ft), renowned as one of the best spots to view Mount Everest. At sunset, the peak of Everest glows like a golden crown against the sky. We’ll stay overnight at Everest Base Camp for a truly unforgettable experience.
+ Day 8: Everest Nature Reserve (Rongbuk Monastery) – Gyatso La Pass – Shigatse – Lhasa
Road Conditions: Paved roads
Altitude: 3,950m (12,959 ft)
Highlights of the Day: Mount Everest, Rongbuk Monastery, Rongbuk Glacier, Gyatso La Pass
Begin your day witnessing the breathtaking sunrise over Mount Everest. If lucky, you might see the famous "Everest Flag Cloud," a plume of cloud that dances over the summit like a flame. Explore Rongbuk Glacier, a stunning frozen landscape near the monastery, before heading toward Shigatse.
On the way, we pass through Lhaze, home to Tibet’s finest traditional knives, and the Gyatso La Pass, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range. You can also find fascinating marine fossils along this route, remnants of an ancient ocean that once covered this land. By evening, we return to Lhasa.
+ Day 9: Lhasa City Tour – Potala Palace – Jokhang Temple – Barkhor Street
Important Tips:
Lhasa has 65% of the oxygen level compared to sea level, so you may experience mild altitude sickness. Walk slowly, drink plenty of water, and rest adequately.
Most visits involve walking; wear comfortable shoes and apply sunscreen.
Dress appropriately: Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops when visiting temples.
Highlights of the Day:
Potala Palace: Tibet’s most iconic landmark and former residence of the Dalai Lama. Due to preservation efforts, visits are limited to 60 minutes, and guides are not allowed to speak loudly inside. Be prepared for a 40-minute uphill walk to the entrance.
Jokhang Temple: The spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism, where pilgrims prostrate in devotion.
Barkhor Street: A vibrant market where you can immerse yourself in Tibetan culture and shop for traditional crafts.
+ Day 10: Departure from Lhasa – Gonggar International Airport
We recommend heading to Gonggar International Airport 2.5 hours before departure. Our team will assist you with check-in procedures.
Tour 'Wow' Points
Mount Everest（Mount Qomolangma） Nature Reserve (Basum Village)
The Mount Everest Nature Reserve is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth, including Basum Village, a hidden gem within the reserve. This remote village offers an authentic Tibetan experience, where visitors can see traditional stone houses, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and yaks grazing on the high-altitude plains. It serves as a gateway to exploring the majestic Everest region, with opportunities for trekking, wildlife spotting, and experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the world’s highest mountain.
Potala Palace
The iconic Potala Palace is Tibet’s most famous landmark, standing majestically over Lhasa. Once the winter residence of the Dalai Lama, this grand palace is a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture, rising over 13 stories with over 1,000 rooms. Inside, visitors can explore lavishly decorated halls, golden tombs of past Dalai Lamas, and an incredible collection of Buddhist art and scriptures. The palace also offers stunning views of Lhasa and the surrounding mountains, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Karola Glacier
Karola Glacier is one of Tibet’s most accessible glaciers, offering breathtaking views of its towering ice formations. Located at an altitude of over 5,500 meters (18,000 feet), this stunning glacier is easily visible from the road, making it a perfect stop for travelers. The contrast between the white ice and the red and black rock formations creates a surreal landscape. Visitors can admire the glacier up close and experience the raw beauty of Tibet’s high-altitude wonders.
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Important Travel Notes for Foreign Visitors to Tibet
To ensure a seamless and hassle-free journey to Tibet, please carefully review the following travel guidelines and restrictions:
Entry and Permit Regulations
1️⃣ Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) is Mandatory – You must carry the original permit along with your passport when boarding a flight or train to Tibet.
2️⃣ Group Travelers – If you are part of a group tour, each foreign traveler will receive their own Tibet Travel Permit separately (shipping fees apply individually).
3️⃣ Hotel Accommodations – You will stay at designated 4-star hotels or government-approved foreigner-friendly hotels in Tibet.
4️⃣ No Mixed Groups with Chinese Nationals – Foreign travelers cannot join tour groups that include Chinese citizens.
5️⃣ Guided Tours Are Mandatory – Independent travel is strictly prohibited; all activities must be accompanied by a licensed tour guide.
6️⃣ Licensed Vehicles Only – Only government-approved tour vehicles are permitted for transportation.
Permit Processing Time：
Standard Processing Time: At least 20 days before departure
Expedited Processing: Available upon request (additional fees apply)
Itinerary Restrictions & Guide Selection：
Tour itinerary cannot be changed for foreign travelers.
Tour guide options include English-speaking guides or guides fluent in Malay, Chinese, or other languages (additional fees may apply).
Restricted Areas for Foreign Visitors：
Foreign travelers are strictly prohibited from entering the following areas due to security regulations:
🔹 Nyingchi Region: Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, Nanyi Valley, Medog, and other border areas.
🔹 Shannan Region: Lake Lhamo Latso and all border areas.
🔹 Shigatse Region: All border areas except for Gyirong and Nyalam (Zhangmu).
🔹 Ngari Region: Pangong Lake and other border areas.
🔹 All international border regions in Tibet are off-limits to foreigners.
Important Travel Notes:
✅ Safety:
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Keep your valuables secure. Do not leave important belongings in hotels or tour vehicles.
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Always ask for permission before photographing locals.
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Follow the group schedule and guide’s instructions to ensure a smooth experience.
✅ Preparation:
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Carefully review the pre-departure notice and Tibet travel guidelines before your trip.
✅ Itinerary Adjustments:
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The travel agency reserves the right to adjust the order of activities while ensuring all listed attractions are visited.
Change & Cancellation Policies
- If the cancellation request is submitted before 00:00, 10 days prior to departure, no cancellation fee will be charged.
- If the cancellation request is submitted before 00:00, 7 days prior to departure, a 10% fee will be charged.
- If the cancellation request is submitted before 00:00, 5 days prior to departure, a 30% fee will be charged.
- If the cancellation request is submitted before 00:00, 3 days prior to departure, a 100% fee will be charged.
- If a discount is applied, the fee will be calculated as a proportion of the pre-discount price. It will not exceed the amount actually paid.
- *Partial refund not available
- *If you need to change the date, please cancel the booking and then rebook.
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