Lhasa Kailash Everest Base Camp Tour-17 Days

After an early breakfast, we set off on a drive along the Nepalese Highways towards the Rasuwagadhi Nepal Tibet Border. Upon reaching the border, a short 10-minute walk will lead us to the Friendship Bridge where we will be greeted by our Tibetan guide and drivers. Following the completion of immigration and customs formalities, we continue our journey for approximately 35 km, a 3-hour drive through the winding roads to Kyirong, showcasing picturesque scenery. Later, you will be taken to the guest house in Nyalam (3700m) for an overnight stay.

The journey to Tingri today is simply magnificent. The wide desert plains of the Tibetan Plateau create a stunning backdrop, offering a clear view of the impressive Shishapangma Himalayas. As we make our way, we will soon catch a glimpse of Everest, its distinctive black pyramid towering above the highway. From this perspective, it is easy to imagine that we are beholding the tallest mountain on the planet.

Our destination is Rongbuk, where the highest Monastery in the world is situated. The guest house provides stunning views of Mount Everest and Cho-Oyu in the valley. After exploring Rongbuk Monastery, we will pause for acclimatization.

An exciting morning awaits as we venture to the majestic Mount Everest Base Camp. A short 8-kilometer drive from Ronbuk Monastery will lead us to this renowned destination, where we will embark on a delightful hike and immerse ourselves in the exploration of the base camp. Upon concluding our visit, we will return to Sakya, where we will have the privilege of visiting the Sakya Monastery.

Drive to Saga, the starting point for Kailash Manasarovar and Guge Kingdom, the second largest city in the Kailash region by the Brahmaputra River. Encounter the modern Tibetan community and modern amenities in this area. Rest and rejuvenate after a long day of driving.

While driving towards Manasarovar, you will be treated to your first glimpse of the awe-inspiring Holy Mt. Kailash and the serene Lake Mansarovar during the late afternoon. Situated near the sacred Mansarovar Lake is the quaint village of Hore. Experience the Manasarovar Lake Parikrama by bus, immersing yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. At an impressive altitude of 14,950 feet (4,558 meters), Holy Mansarovar stands as the highest freshwater lake in the world, boasting a captivating turquoise hue and teeming with fish and swans. The majestic Holy Mt. Kailash, Mt. Gurula-Mandala, and Lake Rakshash grace the lake's surroundings. This region is renowned for its abundance of gold and other mineral deposits, natural hot springs, and diverse wildlife.

Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of Guest House Holy Mansarovar, where compassion, tranquility, and bliss abound. Following a memorable morning bath and exploration, our journey continues towards Tarchen (Darchen), the designated base camp for the sacred Kailash Parikrama. If time allows, we may also have the opportunity to visit Chui Gompa. During the auspicious pilgrimage season, Tarchen transforms into a bustling hub, with pilgrims flocking to the area and numerous tents dotting the surroundings.

Stay overnight at Mud House before driving to Tarboche Valley, the beginning of Kailash Parikrama. Known as outer “Asthapath”, Tarboche offers a picturesque setting with beautiful rocky cliffs, waterfalls, and clouds in the clear blue sky. The divine presence of the Great God Shiva can be felt everywhere, showering blessings upon you. As you walk the 7 km trail, the face of Mount Kailash will continuously appear, making the 7-hour journey a spiritually enriching experience.

Today's expedition will test your endurance as you conquer the challenging heights of Dolma-la (Dolma-La 18600 ft/ 5613m), followed by a gradual descent towards Zuthulpuk (4760m). This leg of the journey is widely regarded as the most demanding. Once you reach the pinnacle, take a moment to offer a sacred tribute and immerse yourself in deep meditation, transcending the boundaries of time. As you descend, you will encounter the captivating sights of Parvati-stal and Gauri Kunda. By late afternoon, you will finally arrive at the serene destination of Zuthulpuk.

Enjoy the morning exploring the caves, temples, and shrines near Milarepa cave during your free time. Embark on a 3-hour walk on the flat land close to Darchen, followed by a drive in a tour of regular transportation to Manasarovar via Darchen. Spend the night at a Guest House on the bank of the lake.

After enjoying the breathtaking views of Lake Manasarovar and Mount Kailash, which mark the final highlights of this remarkable journey, we will make our way back to Saga. We will retrace our steps along the same driving route and then transfer to a comfortable guest house for an overnight stay.

Rest at the hotel for the night. Our next destination is the second largest city in Tibet, which we will reach via Lhatse. The scenic drive along the Brahmaputra River will take you through enchanting valleys, fields, and lakes, providing a feast for your eyes.

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Tibet by exploring the Tashilhunpo Monastery. Founded in 1447 by the first Dalai Lama, this monastery holds great importance. As you continue your journey towards Gyantse, make a stop to visit the Palcho Monastery. The main attraction here is the Kubum Stupa, a magnificent structure standing at an impressive height of 35 meters. Its white layers, adorned with intricate decorative stripes, create a visually stunning sight.

During your solitary journey, you will have the opportunity to discover the enchanting Yamdrok Lake, a stunning body of water with a mesmerizing blue hue. Regarded as one of the four sacred lakes in Tibet, it holds great significance for the Tibetan people as it is believed to be the dwelling place of the "wrathful deities." Additionally, you will also have the chance to witness the majestic Karola Glacier, situated at an impressive altitude of 5,560 meters. Finally, upon reaching Lhasa, you will be seamlessly transferred to your designated hotel for a comfortable stay.

This morning, we will embark on a sightseeing tour of the Drepung Monastery, once the wealthiest Monastery in Tibet during the 17th century, boasting four colleges and housing 10,000 monks. Perched on a hillside, a cluster of white buildings contrasts beautifully with the backdrop of the majestic Mt. Gambo Utse, offering a breathtaking view of Lhasa City and its surroundings. Our next stop will be the renowned Sera Monastery, known for its warrior monks, Dob-Doa. Following that, we will explore Norbulingka, the former summer palace of the Dalai Lamas, featuring various palaces, chapels, and structures. To conclude our day, we will return to the hotel by car.

Commence your sightseeing journey in the historical city of Lhasa by exploring the magnificent Potala Palace, a monumental structure that once served as the heart of spiritual and temporal power in Tibet. The intricate rooms, halls, chapels, and furnishings of the palace will captivate you, while the stories that unfold within its walls will leave you in awe. In the afternoon, pay a visit to the sacred Jokhang Temple, one of Tibet's holiest sites, where a palpable sense of reverence fills the air. The bustling atmosphere, vibrant worship paraphernalia, flickering butter lamps, and fragrant incense at the temple create an unforgettable experience. Conclude your day with a visit to the lively Barkhor Street, the bustling heart of Lhasa, and the main thoroughfare for prayer wheel rotations.

We can arrange for your transfer to Gongar Airport for your next flight to Kathmandu or Mainland China. If you prefer, you can also leave Tibet by train to Mainland China. Another possibility is to drive back to Kathmandu to save on the expensive airfare from Lhasa to Kathmandu.