Tibet Road Trip

Itinerary Quick Look

Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests and schedule.

DAY 1 Arrive in Lhasa + Acclimate to altitude

After arriving in Lhasa (elevation approx. 3,650m), you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel. The day is mainly for acclimating to the high altitude – avoid strenuous activities.

In the afternoon, you can visit Potala Palace Square to capture reflection photos and night views, then head to the Yaowang Mountain viewing platform.

Day 2 Lhasa + Potala Palace + Jokhang Temple + Stroll around Barkhor Street

On the second day, enjoy a full day tour of Lhasa's core cultural attractions. After breakfast, drive to the Potala Palace, the most iconic building in Tibet and the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. Its interior houses a stunning collection of murals, Buddhist statues, and historical artifacts. Then visit the Jokhang Temple, one of the holiest temples in Tibetan Buddhism, which enshrines the life-sized statue of Buddha at age 12. The devout pilgrims prostrating themselves before it create a deeply moving scene. Finally, stroll along Barkhor Street, the kora circuit surrounding Jokhang Temple. It is also a lively Tibetan bazaar where you can join pilgrims in turning prayer wheels, browse for Tibetan handicrafts, and experience local daily life.

DAY 3Lhasa + Yamdrok Lake + Karola Glacier + Shigatse

On the third day, first arrive at Yamdrok Lake, one of the three holiest lakes in Tibet. Its turquoiseblue waters are known as “the sapphire of the sky,” with numerous scenic viewpoints along the way. Then visit the Karola Glacier, a glacier very close to the road, covered in snow yearround – a spectacular sight perfect for closeup photos. Finally, arrive in Shigatse, where you will stay overnight.

DAY 4 Shigatse + Gyatsola Pass + Everest Base Camp + Everest Town (Overnight in Everest Town)

Drive from Shigatse to Gyatsola Pass (approx. 5,248m) for a distant view of the Himalayan snow peaks. Then arrive at Everest Base Camp to see Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, up close. In the evening, stay overnight in Everest Town.

Day 5 Everest Town + Gawula Pass (sunrise view of the Himalayan peaks) + Everest 108 Turns + Shigatse

On the fifth morning, head to Gawula Pass, the best spot to view the majestic Himalayan peaks (including five mountains over 8,000m). The sunrise view is spectacular. Then admire the famous “Everest 108 Turns” – a dramatic mountain road with breathtaking switchbacks. After the tour, return to Shigatse for some rest.

Day 6 Shigatse + Tashilhunpo Monastery (seat of the Panchen Lama) + Qushui County + Lhasa

On the sixth day, visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama. Inside, you will see one of the world’s largest copper statues – the Maitreya Buddha (Jampa Buddha). Your guide will introduce you to the Panchen Lama tradition, another important religious lineage in Tibetan Buddhism. Afterwards, return to Lhasa (passing through Qushui County).

Day 7 Lhasa City + Nagela Pass + Tashi Dor Peninsula at Namtso Lake + Lhasa City

On the seventh day, head to Nagela Pass, an important viewpoint for entering the Namtso area. Namtso is one of the highest large altitude lakes in the world, known as the “Heavenly Lake,” with crystal clear waters surrounded by snow capped mountains. Afterwards, drive to Tashi Dor Peninsula, where you can get up close to the lake and capture the reflection of the Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains. After the day's tour, return to Lhasa.

Day 8 Lhasa Urban Area + Airport/Train Station Transfer

On the final day, you will be transferred to the airport or train station according to your flight or train schedule, bringing your unforgettable Tibet journey to an end.