After an early breakfast at your Kathmandu hotel, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) for one of the world’s most spectacular flights. This trans-Himalayan journey offers panoramic views of Mount Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga, along with glaciers, deep valleys, and snow-capped ridges. Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar International Airport (LXA), situated at 3,600 metres (11,800 ft) and one of the highest airports in the world, your Tibetan guide will welcome you. The airport is about 97 kilometres (60 mi) from Lhasa, leading to a scenic drive along the Kyichu River, where travelers enjoy their first glimpses of prayer-flag-draped hills, traditional Tibetan villages, and the distant Potala Palace, a symbol of the city’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Alternatively, travelers can also reach Lhasa directly via mainland China, flying into Lhasa from major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Chengdu, or Xi’an. Regardless of the route, the journey provides a dramatic introduction to the Tibetan Plateau and prepares travelers for the high-altitude environment of Lhasa. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take time to acclimatize to the thinner air. A gentle walk around nearby streets introduces you to Lhasa’s vibrant culture, where centuries-old spirituality blends seamlessly with modern city life. Observe monks in traditional robes, pilgrims spinning prayer wheels, and locals engaging in daily routines while focusing on hydration, rest, and mindful pacing to ensure comfort for the days ahead.

In the evening, explore Barkhor Street, a lively hub of devotion and local life. Witness pilgrims chanting mantras, spinning prayer wheels, and offering butter lamps, while the bustling marketplace showcases handcrafted goods, jewelry, and prayer flags. With Jagadamba Holidays, your first day in Lhasa balances adventure, cultural immersion, and high-altitude acclimatization, offering a memorable introduction to Tibet where Himalayan panoramas, sacred heritage, and authentic local life converge.

Today marks a deep dive into the spiritual and cultural heart of Lhasa. After breakfast at your hotel, embark on a guided visit to Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world, home to over 10,000 monks. Perched on a hillside overlooking the Tibetan Plateau, its whitewashed buildings cascade gracefully down the slope, creating a sense of sacred harmony with the surrounding landscape. Wander through the monastery’s ancient assembly halls, chapels, and monks’ quarters, while observing philosophical debates in the courtyard—a unique window into Tibetan Buddhist education and tradition. From the hilltop, enjoy panoramic views of Lhasa and the high-altitude plateau, gaining insight into why Drepung has been a cornerstone of Tibetan monastic life for centuries.

Next, continue to Norbulingka, the former summer residence of the Dalai Lamas, also known as the “Jewel Park.” This serene palace offers a striking contrast to Drepung’s austere monastic environment. Stroll through its lush gardens, tranquil ponds, and ornate pavilions, and admire the intricate Tibetan architecture, murals, and decorative artwork. Norbulingka reflects the personal tastes of Tibet’s spiritual leaders and demonstrates the harmonious integration of nature, art, and culture. Visitors gain a rare glimpse into the private lives of the Dalai Lamas while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and experiencing Tibet’s royal and artistic heritage firsthand.

The afternoon is free for gentle exploration of central Lhasa, offering opportunities to wander along the Kyichu River, relax in traditional Tibetan teahouses, or explore the vibrant streets and local markets. Observe pilgrims and monks in traditional robes, spin prayer wheels, and immerse yourself in the sacred ambiance of the city. With Jagadamba Holidays, today’s journey blends cultural immersion, spiritual exploration, and high-altitude acclimatization, preparing travelers for the higher elevations and remote landscapes ahead. This day offers a perfect balance of Tibetan monasteries, Buddhist culture, and authentic local life, creating a memorable and enriching experience for every traveler.

Today, immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural soul of Lhasa by visiting its most iconic landmarks. Begin at the Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. Perched majestically atop Red Hill, this architectural marvel houses over 1,000 rooms filled with intricate murals, sacred chapels, and golden stupas. Wander through its grand halls while admiring the panoramic views of Lhasa and the surrounding Tibetan Plateau. The palace’s imposing presence and historical significance provide a profound insight into Tibet’s religious and political heritage, making it an unmissable highlight for travelers seeking an authentic experience of Tibetan culture.

Next, visit the Jokhang Temple, considered the spiritual epicenter of Tibetan Buddhism. This 7th-century temple houses the revered Jowo Shakyamuni statue, attracting pilgrims from across Tibet who circumambulate the temple along the Barkhor Kora. Join the flow of devotees, spin prayer wheels, and absorb the deeply spiritual atmosphere that permeates the temple complex. The surrounding Barkhor Market offers an immersive cultural experience, where local vendors sell traditional handicrafts, prayer flags, thangkas, and other artifacts, giving travelers a vibrant taste of Tibetan daily life and devotion.

In the afternoon, explore Sera Monastery, renowned for its lively monks’ debates, a centuries-old tradition of Tibetan scholastic practice. Observing these debates provides a unique window into Tibetan Buddhist philosophy, education, and monastic discipline. The monastery’s peaceful courtyards and historic chapels offer further insight into the rich spiritual heritage of Tibet. With Jagadamba Holidays, Day 3 blends cultural immersion, spiritual exploration, and high-altitude acclimatization, leaving travelers inspired and ready for the upcoming journey across the Tibetan Plateau towards Gyantse, Shigatse, and Everest Base Camp. This day captures the essence of Lhasa, combining Tibetan monasteries, Buddhist traditions, sacred architecture, and vibrant local life for an unforgettable experience.

The scenic drive from Lhasa to Shigatse via Gyantse covers approximately 350 km and takes around 8–9 hours, offering breathtaking views of the Tibetan Plateau, sacred lakes, and historic monasteries. This high-altitude journey combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and photography opportunities, providing a memorable Tibetan adventure.

After breakfast, embark on this overland journey from Lhasa (3,650 m / 11,975 ft), crossing the dramatic landscapes of the high Tibetan Plateau. The route ascends Kamba La Pass (4,794 m / 15,741 ft), offering your first spectacular view of Yamdrok Lake (4,441 m / 14,570 ft), one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes. The serene waters glimmer against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, creating an unforgettable photography moment. Descend through rolling plains and pastoral valleys, observing traditional Tibetan villages, barley fields, and nomadic herders tending yaks and sheep. Each bend in the road reveals unique perspectives of Tibet’s high-altitude landscapes, making the journey itself an adventure.

Arrive in the historic town of Gyantse (3,977 m / 13,048 ft), a cultural and spiritual hub of the Tsang region. Visit Palcho Monastery, home to the remarkable Kumbum Stupa (3,977 m / 13,048 ft), a multi-tiered architectural marvel with 108 chapels adorned with vibrant murals depicting Tibetan Buddhist cosmology. Explore the monastery courtyards, sacred halls, and narrow corridors, immersing yourself in centuries of spiritual devotion. Gyantse’s bustling streets and markets offer an authentic glimpse of Tibetan life, with opportunities to purchase traditional crafts, prayer flags, and thangkas.

Continue through the scenic Nyang Chu Valley to Shigatse (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), Tibet’s second-largest city and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy an evening stroll through the charming old town. Admire the golden rooftops of Tashilhunpo Monastery (3,900 m / 12,795 ft) and experience the lively atmosphere of local markets. With Jagadamba Holidays, Day 4 seamlessly blends cultural exploration, high-altitude adventure, and photography, offering travelers a complete experience of Tibet’s sacred lakes, historic monasteries, and vibrant plateau life.

After breakfast, visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama and a spiritual highlight of any Tibet overland tour. Founded in 1447 by the First Dalai Lama, this sacred site features golden-roofed temples, whitewashed walls, and intricately decorated chapels that showcase the grandeur of classical Tibetan architecture. Inside, marvel at the 26-meter gilded statue of Maitreya Buddha (Future Buddha), surrounded by exquisite murals and ancient scriptures that embody the deep devotion and artistic heritage of Tibetan Buddhism.

Depart Shigatse and continue your journey through the picturesque high-altitude valleys of central Tibet toward the historic town of Sakya. Here, visit the fortress-style Sakya Monastery, one of the most significant Tibetan monasteries, renowned for its grey and red walls, medieval architecture, and a vast library of ancient Buddhist texts and thangkas. Exploring this monastery offers travelers an authentic glimpse into Tibet’s spiritual history and unique religious traditions.

The drive from Shigatse to Shekar (New Tingri, 4,390 m / 14,403 ft) covers a distance of 250 kilometers and takes around 6 to 7 hours, offering travelers breathtaking panoramic views of the Tibetan Plateau, including vast sweeping plains, yak pastures, and traditional nomadic settlements that showcase the authentic lifestyle of rural Tibet. As the road climbs toward the Everest region, enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan landscapes, including Cho Oyu and Shishapangma. Upon arrival in Shekar, check into your hotel and unwind with a peaceful evening stroll through this quiet highland town.

With Jagadamba Holidays, today’s journey perfectly blends cultural exploration, scenic adventure, and spiritual discovery, making it one of the most rewarding segments of your Tibet cultural tour and preparing travelers for the awe-inspiring journey toward Mount Everest Base Camp.

After an early breakfast in Shekar (New Tingri, 4,390 m / 14,403 ft), embark on a spectacular high-altitude journey toward the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. The scenic drive covers 100 km and takes approximately 3–4 hours, winding through the rugged Tibetan Plateau and ascending the panoramic Pang La Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft). Here, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, and capture unforgettable photographs. The route passes through glacial valleys, expansive plains, and traditional Tibetan villages, offering an authentic glimpse of Tibet’s nomadic lifestyle and high-altitude culture.

Arrive at Rongbuk Monastery (4,980 m / 16,339 ft), recognized as the highest monastery in the world, situated beneath the towering north face of Mount Everest. This sacred Tibetan Buddhist site is home to a small community of monks and nuns, and it has been a spiritual sanctuary for explorers and pilgrims for over a century. Explore the monastery’s chapels, prayer halls, and meditation areas, adorned with intricate murals, prayer wheels, and ancient statues. The serene and remote setting, framed by snow-capped peaks and glacial landscapes, offers a unique cultural and spiritual experience for travelers, making it one of the most iconic destinations in Tibet.

From Rongbuk, continue a short drive or trek to the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,200 m / 17,060 ft). Stand at the foot of the world’s tallest mountain and marvel at the majestic north face of Qomolangma, capturing breathtaking photographs and absorbing the sheer scale of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Feel the exhilaration of high-altitude adventure while appreciating the spiritual and historical significance of this legendary site. After a day of exploration, return to Rongbuk for an overnight stay at the monastery guesthouse or nearby camp, reflecting on a day filled with Tibetan culture, Himalayan photography, and once-in-a-lifetime Everest adventure.

After an early breakfast at Rongbuk, witness the sunrise over Mount Everest, a truly magical spectacle that illuminates the towering Himalayan peaks. Following this unforgettable experience, embark on the long drive back to Lhasa, retracing the high-altitude roads of the Tibetan Plateau. The journey covers approximately 480 km, taking around 9–10 hours, and offers breathtaking views of rugged mountains, glacial valleys, and sweeping plateaus.

Along the route, pass through Shekar (New Tingri), Lhatse, Shigatse, and Nyemo, with opportunities for photography, short rest stops, and glimpses of traditional Tibetan villages and nomadic life. This northern route follows the famous Friendship Highway (G318 National Highway), the main overland corridor connecting Lhasa to the Nepal border at Gyirong, offering a faster yet scenic return journey. Travelers can enjoy the changing landscapes—from stark highland plains to fertile valleys—while reflecting on the spiritual, cultural, and natural wonders experienced along the tour.

Arrive in Lhasa by evening and check in at your hotel. Spend your final night enjoying a farewell stroll along Barkhor Street, browsing local crafts, or dining while overlooking the city’s lights. This day combines high-altitude adventure, Himalayan photography, and cultural immersion, providing a memorable conclusion to a once-in-a-lifetime journey through Tibet, Everest Base Camp, and the sacred Tibetan plateau.

After an early breakfast, transfer directly to Lhasa Gonggar International Airport (LXA, 3,600 m / 11,800 ft) for your onward flight to Kathmandu. As one of the highest airports in the world, Lhasa Airport serves as the gateway to the Tibetan Plateau and offers stunning aerial perspectives of the Himalayas. The approximately 97-kilometre (60 mi) drive from Lhasa winds along the Kyichu River, providing a last opportunity to soak in the panoramic views of Tibetan villages, prayer-flag-draped hills, and the rugged high-altitude landscapes. This final overland stretch marks the completion of your extraordinary Tibetan journey, where travelers can reflect on the spiritual, cultural, and natural highlights of the plateau.

The trans-Himalayan flight from Lhasa to Kathmandu offers a spectacular aerial adventure, crossing some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga, along with vast glaciers, deep valleys, and snow-capped ridges. It provides a breathtaking finale to your high-altitude expedition, capturing the essence of Tibet and the grandeur of the Himalayas from above.

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM, 1,400 m / 4,593 ft.), Kathmandu, your journey concludes with lasting memories of Tibet’s sacred monasteries, vibrant local culture, and majestic mountain landscapes. Travelers can enjoy free time for personal activities in Kathmandu or extend their adventure in Nepal, either continuing onward to home or exploring additional Himalayan destinations. With Jagadamba Holidays, the trip seamlessly combines high-altitude adventure, cultural immersion, and spiritual enrichment, leaving you with an unforgettable travel experience.