8-Day Tibet Sacred Lands
Overview
Traverse the Roof of the World — from the golden-roofed Potala Palace in Lhasa to the north face of Everest. This journey follows the ancient route through Tibet's most sacred monasteries, dramatic passes, and high-altitude landscapes that few travellers ever witness.
Route
Lhasa → Gyantse → Shigatse → Everest North Base Camp → Lhasa
Highlights
- Potala Palace — the iconic 13-story fortress of the Dalai Lamas
- Jokhang Temple and Barkhor kora pilgrimage circuit
- Gyantse Kumbum — Tibet's largest stupa
- Everest Base Camp (North) — 5,200m viewpoint
- Yamdrok Lake — sacred turquoise lake at 4,441m
- Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse
Quick Facts
- Duration
- 8 Days / 7 Nights
- Difficulty
- Moderate to Challenging
- Group Size
- 2-6 guests
- Max Altitude
- 5,200m
- Best Months
- Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct
- Starting From
- $5,500 pp
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Lhasa
Fly into Lhasa Gonggar Airport (3,650m). Private transfer with supplemental oxygen available. Rest and acclimatize — gentle evening walk along Lhasa's river promenade.
Lhasa — Potala Palace & Jokhang
Morning visit to the magnificent Potala Palace, winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. Afternoon exploration of Jokhang Temple and the bustling Barkhor kora circuit.
Lhasa Monasteries
Visit Sera Monastery to witness the famous debating monks. Afternoon at Drepung Monastery, once the world's largest monastery housing over 10,000 monks. Evening Tibetan opera performance.
Lhasa to Gyantse via Yamdrok Lake
Drive over Kamba La pass (4,700m) to the sacred Yamdrok Lake — its turquoise waters stretching endlessly below. Continue to the historic town of Gyantse.
Gyantse to Shigatse
Morning visit to Gyantse Kumbum — Tibet's most spectacular stupa, with six floors housing 77 chapels adorned with ancient murals. Drive to Shigatse and explore Tashilhunpo Monastery.
Shigatse to Everest Base Camp
Epic drive across the Tibetan Plateau, crossing multiple passes above 5,000m. Arrive at Rongbuk Monastery — the highest in the world — with Everest's north face towering above.
Everest & Return to Shigatse
Sunrise over Everest's north face (weather permitting). Time at Everest Base Camp North (5,200m). Return drive to Shigatse. Farewell dinner with traditional Tibetan dishes.
Return to Lhasa & Departure
Drive back to Lhasa (or fly from Shigatse Peace Airport if available). Transfer to Lhasa Gonggar Airport for departure.
What's Included
- Tibet Travel Permit and all restricted-area permits
- 7 nights accommodation
- All meals (full board throughout)
- Private licensed Tibetan guide
- Private 4x4 vehicle with experienced driver
- All monastery and monument entrance fees
- Everest Base Camp National Park fee
- Supplemental oxygen and first-aid kit
- Airport transfers in Lhasa
- 24/7 on-trip support
Not Included
- International flights to/from Lhasa (via Chengdu or Kathmandu)
- Chinese visa and Tibet Travel Permit processing fee
- Travel insurance (required — must cover high altitude and evacuation)
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Alcoholic beverages
- Optional Namtso Lake extension
Find Your Flights
At 3,570m elevation — allow time for acclimatization. Flights from Chengdu, Beijing, and Kathmandu. Tibet Travel Permit required.
Typical airlines: Air China, Tibet Airlines, Sichuan Airlines
International flights are not included in CuratedAscents packages.
Customize This Journey
This itinerary is a starting point. Our AI Expedition Architect will tailor every detail — dates, accommodations, activities — to create your perfect trip.