China's Grand Tapestry: Ancient Wonders & Natural Marvels
An In-Depth Exploration of Himalayan Culture, Monasteries, and Majestic Landscapes
Detailed 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa - Acclimatization to High Altitude
Welcome to Tibet! Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport or railway station, you'll be transferred to your downtown hotel. The remainder of the day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization to Lhasa's 3,650-meter altitude. Our guide will provide essential information about altitude sickness prevention and recommend adequate rest, high-carbohydrate meals, and hydration strategies.
Accommodation: Gang-Gyan Hotel Lhasa (4 stars) or similar
Day 2: Lhasa's Western Monasteries - Philosophical Debates & Ancient Traditions
Morning: Explore Drepung Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist temple and prestigious Gelug Sect institution. Discover the Ganden Potrang (former residence of Dalai Lamas) and Coqen Hall with its exquisite Thangka murals and butter lamp rituals.
Afternoon: Witness the famous philosophical debates at Sera Monastery, where red-robed monks engage in lively Buddhist doctrine discussions. Experience this unique tradition that has continued for centuries.
Evening: Enjoy a specially prepared welcome dinner featuring authentic Tibetan cuisine.
Meals: Breakfast, Welcome dinner Accommodation: Gang-Gyan Hotel Lhasa (4 stars) or similar
Day 3: Lhasa's Spiritual Heart - Palaces, Temples & Local Culture
Morning: Ascend to the magnificent Potala Palace, UNESCO World Heritage site and highest palatial architecture globally. Explore its golden stupas, intricate murals, and cultural treasures while learning about its historical significance.
Afternoon: Visit Jokhang Temple, Tibet's most sacred Buddhist site, blending Tibetan, Tang Dynasty, Nepalese, and Indian architectural styles. Experience the spiritual atmosphere and learn about its foundation by King Songtsen Gampo.
Cultural Experience: Stroll through Barkhor Street, the ancient pilgrimage circuit surrounding Jokhang Temple. Immerse in local life at a traditional sweet tea house for authentic Tibetan tea tasting.
Meals: Breakfast, Tea break Accommodation: Gang-Gyan Hotel Lhasa (4 stars) or similar
Day 4: Scenic Journey to Shigatse - Lakes, Glaciers & Local Encounters
Morning: Depart Lhasa for Shigatse, stopping at Yamdrok Yumco Lake, one of Tibet's Great Three Holy Lakes. Enjoy panoramic views from Gampala Pass Platform and lakeside walks.
Cultural Immersion: Visit a local Tibetan family by the lake, enjoy a farm lunch, and learn traditional greetings.
Afternoon: Marvel at Karola Glacier's impressive ice tongue and surrounding barley fields. Continue through picturesque landscapes to Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest city.
Meals: Breakfast, Farm house lunch Accommodation: Shiga-Yangcha Hotel Shigatse (3 stars) or similar
Day 5: Himalayan Ascent - From Monasteries to Everest Base Camp
Morning: Explore Tashilhunpo Monastery, Shigatse's largest temple and traditional seat of Panchen Lamas. Admire the world's largest gilded bronze seated Maitreya Buddha statue.
Journey to Himalayas: Travel toward the mighty Himalayan range, stopping at Dingri or Gawula View Points for breathtaking vistas of Mount Everest and neighboring peaks.
Evening: Arrive at Everest Base Camp (5,200m) and, weather permitting, witness the spectacular golden sunset over Mount Everest.
Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Rongpuk Tent Guest House (Dorm bed) or similar
Day 6: Everest Sunrise & Journey to Borderlands
Morning Experience: Witness the unforgettable sunrise over Mount Everest, followed by visit to Rongbuk Monastery - the world's highest-altitude temple where monks and nuns coexist.
Scenic Drive: Travel through dramatic landscapes to Gyirong Town, admiring Peykuzo Lake ("Sapphire at Everest's foot"), primitive forests, deep canyons, and snow-capped mountains.
Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Pingcuo Kangsang Hotel (4 stars) or similar
Day 7: Border Crossing to Nepal - Journey Conclusion
Morning: After breakfast, transfer to Gyirong Border for exit procedures. Our Tibetan services conclude here, with Nepalese staff awaiting to assist with entry formalities and optional transfer to Kathmandu.
Optional: Private car transfer to Kathmandu available at additional cost for seamless continuation of your Himalayan adventure.
Meals: Breakfast