• 19 Days In-depth China Holiday with Tibet Highlights Tour
  • 19 Days In-depth China Holiday with Tibet Highlights Tour
  • 19 Days In-depth China Holiday with Tibet Highlights Tour
  • 19 Days In-depth China Holiday with Tibet Highlights Tour
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18 Days In-depth China Holiday with Tibet Highlights Tour

Explore China to the Fullest

This long China tour up to 19 days is an in-depth China tour covering the most popular tourist destinations both in China and Tibet. You will travel from the prosperous southern China to the historical northern area, then fly over thousands of mountains to explore the holy land Tibet. Modern city, beautiful countryside, giant panda, World Cultural Heritage Sites, food street, pilgrimage, Tibetan architecture, plateau lakes, snow mountains... there are so many things to see and experience in this tour!

Highlights of this tour:

  • Start your China trip from Shanghai which is one of the most popular international flights hubs in China, also witness what a success the city Shanghai has achieved;
  • Enjoy a leisure cruise along the picturesque Li River and beautiful Yangshuo Countryside landscapes in Guilin;
  • Go to take a visit to the most adorable creature in the world - Giant Pandas in Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding;
  • Visit the solemn royal palaces and temples, and hike the famous Great Wall of China in the capital city Beijing;
  • Spend some days in the greatest ancient city in China - Xian which is famous for the Terracotta Warriors;
  • Explore the scared Tibetan monasteries and palace in the Golden Triangle Destinations in Tibet - Lhasa, Shigatse and Gyantse, including Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Palcho Monastery, etc;
  • Have a memorable trip to the world's highest peak - Mount Everest.

Tour Brief Information

  • Tour price:

    1. This price is based on a group of 2 adult travelers who will take our private tour and share one standard rooms in regular local 4-star hotel in lower seasons.

    2. This price is subject to change according to your traveling season, group size, hotel class, change of activities in your itinerary and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate. If you want a lower price, you can get more people to join you, or use economy class hotels.

    3. This price is only valid to March 31, 2025.

    4. Reference exchange rate of USD 1= RMB 6.85. The final quotation will be adjusted according to the latest real-time exchange rate.

  • Tour code: TD-CTT-18A
  • Tour type: Escorted Private Tour
  • Destination: Beijing / Xian / Shanghai / Guilin / Chengdu / Lhasa / Mount Everest / Gyirong / Kathmandu
  • Duration: 18 days and 17 nights
  • Departure: Flexible
  • Travel Theme: CulturePhotographyTrainArchitectureFamily
  • Best Time: SpringSummerAutumn
  • Physical Level

    Physical Requirements

    • Capable of walking short to medium distances by oneself in high altitudes. Must be capable of minor ascents and descents.
    • Capable of light walking and hiking in high altitudes. Suitable for most fitness levels.
    • Average fitness level. High altitude hiking for several hours.
    • Possibly includes high altitude hiking of up to 6 hours per day or activities of a similar nature. Requires an elevated level of fitness.
    • Features demanding high altitude treks or cycling. Only suitable for those with a high level of physical fitness and endurance.

    Note: If you have any questions concerning the requirements or the unique demands for your particular tour package, please feel free to contact one of our helpful Travel Consultants for further information.

    It's advisable to have a body check-up or have your doctor's advice before visiting Tibet. Visitors with a record of heart, lung, liver, or kidney problems must seek medical advice before making the decision to go to Tibet Also, people with any of the following problems should not go to Tibet.

    • Have already caught a cold
    • Have severe anemia
    • Have high blood pressure or severe heart disease
    • Have pneumonia, tuberculosis, tracheitis, or bronchitis
  • Tour Pace
    Comfortable

    Tour Pace

    • Leisure: enjoy your tour in a slow pace, allowing plenty of time for photography, you will see the most famous attractions, and spend plenty amount of time in each destination.
    • Comfortable: enjoy your tour in a comfortable pace, you will see most popular attractions, and spend reasonable amount of time in each attraction.
    • Tight: enjoy your tour at a tight pace, as you will be able to see as many tour attractions as possible in the available amount of time.
  • Max Altitude
    5,200m

    Altitude

    High Altitude Sickness is one of the biggest challenges when travelling in Tibet. According to our experience, most people will be fine up to 3500m above sea level, as the altitude go higher up to 4500m, mild symptoms as shortness of breath, headache might occur. Adverse reactions may vary from person to person. In most cases, the symptoms are mild and will subside in several hours to several days as the body acclimatizes.

    Mild Symptoms of AMS include:

    • Headache
    • Shortness of breath with exertion
    • Rapid pulse (heart rate)
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Fatigue
    • Loss of appetite
    • Poor sleeping
    • Dizziness or light-headedness
    Definition of High Altitude

Your tour - at a glance

Day 1~ Arrival & Beijing Tour

Arrive at Beijing at your convenient time on the Day 1, then go to visit the most popular attractions in Beijing one by one on the Day 2, Day 3 and Day 4, including the Tiananmen Square, ancient imperial sites Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven, man-made wonder Great Wall, local Beijing Hutongs, etc. Take a bullet train from Beijing to Xian on the Day 4.

Day 5~6 Xian Tour

You will spend 2 days in Xian city to visit the magnificent Terracotta Warriors, grand Ancient City Wall, towering Big Wild Goose Pagoda, seek for local flavors on Muslim Quarter, then take a flight to Shanghai in the afternoon of Day 6.

Day7~8 Shanghai Tour

Go to visit the most popular attractions in Shanghai, such as the classic Yu Garden, prosperous Nanjing Road, exotic the Bund, educational Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, etc. Then take a flight to Guilin on the Day 8.

Day 9~10 Guilin Tour & Flight to Chengdu

On the Day 9, you will take a Li River Cruise from Guilin to enjoy the beautiful Countryside landscapes of Yangshuo Town; On the Day 10, you will drive back to Guilin to visit the Elephant Trunk Hill and Reed Flute Cave, then take a flight to Chengdu in the afternoon.

Day 11~12 Chengdu Tour & Flight to Xian

You will have a Chengdu Day tour to visit Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Buddhist Wenshu Temple, intresting Renmin Park and Jinli Old Street. Then take a flight to Lhasa on the Day 12.

Day 13~14 Lhasa City Tour

Go to visit the most classic attractions in Lhasa on Day 13 and Day 14, including the grandiose Potala Palace, holy Buddhist sites Jokhang Temple, Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery, also the exotic Barkhor Street and quiet Norbulingka.

Day 15~17 Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Everest

Drive from Lhasa to Shigatse via on the Day 15, and visit Yamdrok Lake and Palcho Monastery on route. Then continue to drive to Mount Everest on the Day 16. Day 17 is to transfer to Gyirong, close to the China-Nepal Border.

Day 18 Gyirong - Kathmandu

Today is for you to transfer from Gyirong to Kathmandu in Nepal

Itinerary Details - Day by Day

Day 1 Beijing Arrival

Welcome to Shanghai, the China's most cosmopolitan city. Your private tour guide and driver will meet you at the airport or train station, and escort you to your hotel in downtown. The rest of the day is free for you to have fun and relax.

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Day 2 Beijing ( B, L )

China has more than 4000 years’ history of Imperial Social System. While Beijing is the best place in China to experience the magnificent history and culture of ancient China. Today your guide will pick you up in the hotel after your breakfast, then start the wonderful ancient China culture and history tour!

You will firstly get to the world's largest plaza - Tian’anmen Sqaure. The grandiose Tianmen Gate was the place where the chairman Mao announced the establishement of the People’s Republic of China to the world. Passing through Tiananmen Gate, you will enter the splendid Forbidden City, the previous home to 24 emperors of Ming and Qing Dynasties for 600 years. Magnificent architectures, intricate ornaments and touching legends make it a must-see of China. In the afternoon, head to visit the stunning and exquisite Summer Palace, and be amazed at the vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, temples, and palaces, together as a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design. While in Qing Dynasty, it was the personal summer retreat for the royal families. It is made up of front hill, back hill and Kunming Lake. You will see splendid halls and pavilions in the front hill, while in the back hill, you will enjoy quiet and natural beauty.

After the sightseeing, you will be taken back to your hotel for rest.

  • Forbidden City One Corner of Forbidden City
  • Summer Place Spectacular Sunset Glow in Summer Palace
  • Tiananmen Square - A Must-see in Beijing

Day 3 Beijing ( B, L )

Hiking the Great Wall is one-in-a-lifetime thing to do for most travelers. Today, you are going to accomplish the Great Wall dream. You will be escorted about 70km from the downtown Beijing to the world-famous Mutianyu Great Wall which has fewer tourists compared with Badaling Great Wall. At the same time, it is the best Great Wall section to view the delicately beautiful scenery while appreciating the grandness of the Walls. After arriving at the ticket office, you will take a cable car to the walls of Mutianyu, and then hike about 2 hours on the Great Wall. 

After the Mutianyu Great Wall hiking, you will drive back to the city. On route, take a sidetrip to the solemn Ming Tombs of ancient emperors in Ming Dynasty. Wander along the Sacred Road, a tranquil royal path featured with statues of divine animals and officials; also take an adventure to the mysterious Underground Palace. Before getting to your hotel, you will also make a stop at the Beijing Olympic Village to take some pictures of the world-famed "Bird’s Nest" and the "Water Cube" from the outside.

Optional Recommended Activity: enjoy a dinner of authentic Peking Roasted Duck at Quanjude Restaurant.

  • Mutianyu Great Wall Hiking along the Great Wall is a delightful Experience
  • Mutianyu Great Wall Mutianyu Great Wall is covered by snow in winter
  • Bird's Nest in Beijing Have a Glimpse of the Bird's Nest

Day 4 High Speed Train to Xian from Beijing ( B, L )

After breakfast, you'll go to marvel at one of the greatest masterpiece in Chiense architecture history - the Temple of Heaven, where the ancient emperors used to preside at various rituals for a national good harvest in ancient times. Today, the outer area of the Temple of Heaven is a public park for locals to gather to play Taichi, fly kites, chatting… while the inner area is the historical site for tourists to learn about the ancient Chinese history and culture. Later move on to visit the most famous Hutongs which are some old alleys with traditional architecture originated from Yuan Dynasty (CD 1271~1368. Today, there are still many local Beijingers living in these old quarters, while in the Qing Dynasty (CD 1636~1912), there were even some noble royal families resided here. You can wander leisurely around these narrow alleys to experience the original features of people’s living in old time, or take a relaxing rickshaw through. Lunch will be arranged at a local family who lives in Hutong.

After the lunch, you will have some free time until be taken to catch a high speed train to Xian. Our local guide will be waiting for you in train station and escorting you to your hotel in Xian. The rest of day is free for you to explore the ancient city on your own.

  • Temple of Heaven in Beijing Temple of Heaven Is A Masterpiece of Chinese Architecture

Day 5 Xian ( B, L )

After breakfast, drive about 1.5 hours to witness the magnificent man-mad wonder - the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, which were interred to protect Qin Shi Huang (the first Emperor of China) in his afterlife. Over 8,000 life-sized terracotta warriors and horses with different looks and numerous bronze weapons compose a large-scale army system to reappear the majestic momentum of the Qin Army 2,000 years ago. 

In the afternoon, drive back to Xian city to visit the Ancient City Wall, the largest and best-preserved ancient city wall in China. Built in Ming Dynasty as a military defense, the wall’s top is wider than its height to allow the army drill. Stroll on the top of the ancient wall and observe the modern Xian, emerge yourself in the charm of this ancient capital. Your next place is to go is the nearby Muslim Quarter, a place to satisfy your stomach with various delicious local foods and snacks. It is also a wonderful place for a leisure walking around. 

Optional Recommended Activity: 1) biking for a while on the Ancient Great Wall; 2) enjoy a wonderful performance of Tang Palace Dancing Show (usually from 8pm to 9pm).

  • Xi'an Ancient City Wall Ancient City in Dusk
  • Terra-Cotta Warriors in Xi'an Bronze Painted Horse-drawn Chariots

Day 6 Flight to Shanghai from Xian ( B, L )

In this morning, you will firstly make a visit to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. This earliest and largest square pavilion style pagoda built in Tang Dynasty is a seven-layered pagoda with a height of 64.5 meters. The pagoda was first built to store the Buddhist sutras brought back from the Ancient India by Xuanzang (the prototype character of Tang Seng in the novel of Journey to the West). 

After that, move to Shaanxi History Museum, where collects over 370,000 pieces cultural relics of different dynasties, including bronzes, Chinaware, gold and silver wares, grave frescos, currencies of various dynasties, etc. 

In the afternoon, be escorted to the airport to catch your flight to Shanghai (about 2 hours). Your local tour guide will pick you up after you arriving at the airport in Shanghai, and escort you to your hotel.

  • 1300-Year-Old Giant Wild Goose Pagoda 1300-Year-Old Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

Day 7 Shanghai ( B, L )

Today, your wonderful Shanghai journey starts with a visit to Shanghai Museum, resembling an ancient Chinese Ding vessel with round dome and square earth base which symbolizes the Chinese philosophy. It is one must-see attraction in Shanghai famed for its countless treasured cultural collections, including bronze, ceramics, paintings, calligraphy, jade, seal and some other shining exhibits, tracing back to as long as 5,000 years ago. This charming museum will guide you through the craft of millennia as well as the pages of Chinese history.

Your next stop in Shanghai is Yu Garden. The private garden built in Ming Dynasty fully shows the architecture and design style of classical Chinese gardens with delicate pavilions, clear ponds and artificial hills. Next, you will walk leisurely through the Yuyuan Bazaar which is full of tasteful local snacks and elaborate traditional Chinese handicrafts and art works, and locates right next to the Yu Garden.

After exploring Chinese old history and classical garden architecture in Shanghai, you will drive to Lujiazui and take a look at Shanghai at present. If the weather is clear, ascending to the tallest skyscraper in Asia – Shanghai Tower and overlooking from the view deck on the 126th floor, a prosperous and majestic Shanghai will reveal its true face in front of you.

Then, stroll along Nanjing Road, you will be surprised how this paradise for shoppers satisfy your shopping demand. At the east end of the road appears the famous Bund, the symbol of Shanghai situated in the river bank of Huangpu River. Walk along the Bund, feel the perfect fusion of Chinese culture and Western culture, and seize the stunning Shanghai skyline with your own eyes.

Optional Recommended Night Activity: take an enjoyable ship cruise on the Huangpu River to enjoy the beautiful night view of Shanghai.

  • The Bund The Vistas of Shanghai from Different Angle
  • Enjoy the charming scenery of Yu Garden Enjoy the charming scenery of Yu Garden
  • Nanjing Road in Shanghai Take a walk in Nanjing Road

Day 8 Flight to Guilin from Shanghai ( B, L )

The first place to visit for today is the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center where multiple media, such as photography, models, videos, machines, etc, are used to help visitors to learn about the past history, present facts and future plan of Shanghai. Then come to the next site - Jade Buddha Temple which has the largest jade Buddha in the world and numerous religious artifacts, ancient statues and Buddhist scriptures. It is a pure land hidden in the crowded and modern metropolis. In this Chinese Zen-Buddhist temple, you can take a view of the featured Song-style architectures and watch the people praying - quite distinctive from the atmosphere of Tibetan monasteries you will see.

In the afternoon, you will go to catch your flight to Guilin.

  • Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center Learn more about Shanghai in Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center
  • Jade Buddha Temple - A Peaceful Place in Shanghai Jade Buddha Temple - A Peaceful Place in Shanghai

Day 9 Guilin ( B, L )

Today’s Guilin vacation will be started with a leisure cruise on the poetic Li River. You will board the cruise ship at Mopanshan Pier on the upper stream of Li River, then cruise about 4 hours to the Yangshuo Town on the downstream. While enjoying the relaxing cruise, you will also be presented by an amazing visual feast of the most beautiful Karst landscape in China just like a painting - the lively Li River wriggling among lovely limestone hills with green trees and leading you to the romantic scenery of Yangshuo. 

Disembark at Yangshuo Town. After getting some rest, go outside to explore the idyllic Yangshuo countryside by taking a sightseeing minibus or riding a bicycle. March along Shilihualang (means 10 miles gallery in Chinese), be enthralled by the patches of paddy fields nestling under green hills and near the mirror-like river, with farmers cultivating the soil with their water buffalos. While in the evening, you can stroll along the West Old Street, witnessing how the western culture and Chinese culture perfectly and peacefully coexisting here.

  • Li River in Guilin Picturesque Li River
  • Yang Shuo in Guilin View the Scenery of Yangshuo by Riding
  • Incredible Landscape of Yangshuo Incredible Landscape of Yangshuo

Day 10 Guilin & Flight to Chengdu ( B, L )

Today you will drive back to Guilin City to visit the landmarks and catch your departing flight. First attraction is the Elephant Trunk Hill, the symbol of the city, a rock mountain shaping like an elephant drinking on the Li River. Next attraction is the magical Reed Flute Cave, a majestic underground palace, where condenses millions of years’ natural efforts to form the incredible stalactite, stalagmite, stone shield and stone waterfall of different sizes and shapes.

After the tour, be escorted to the airport to catch your flight to Chengdu, the hometown of the cute Giant Panda. Upon arrival, you will be met by local tour guide at the airport and be transferred to your hotel in a private vhicle. The rest of today is free for you to relax in this leisure city.

  • Elephant Trunk Hill

Day 11 Chengdu ( B, L )

Chengdu has three famous features - Giant Panda, History and Leisure Living Pace. Today, you will go to explore these tree features one by one. First is to visit the lovely Giant Pandas in Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, which is the No. 1 thing to do in Chengdu. You will leave your hotel early and drive about 30 minutes to the panda base so that you can catch up the great moments of pandas, such as feeding, playing, climbing tree, etc. There are different enclosures for pages of different ages, such as all around to see baby pandas, 1 year-old pandas, teenage pandas, and older pandas. Beautiful walking paths will lead you to visit the enclosures from one to next. Enjoy the happy time with pandas.

The second place to visit is the sacred Wenshu Temple which is hidden peacefully among the modern mansions. This temple is the most popular Buddhist temple in Chengdu region. It has beautiful traditional ancient architecture. The atmosphere is calm and quiet, some people are praying. There is a little garden and the monastery is very colorful and decorated. 

Lastly, you are going to explore the leisure living peace of locals at Renmin Park and Jinli Street. Renmin Park, or People’s Park is the place for locals to go for a relaxing walk, meet friends, or have a cup of tea. While Jinli is the “street of tourists”. You can wander on the traditional old street to absorb the special atmosphere of Chengdu, taste local snacks, watching a performance, etc.

Optional Recommended Night Activity: watch an fascinating show of traditional Sichuan Opera & Face Changing Performance in a local theatre. 

  • Giant Pandas A panda is sticking his tongue out
  • Wenshu Temple Wenshu Temple - Home to Buddhist Association of Sichuan
  • Jinli Street Take a photo with the "Bronze Man'

Day 12 Flight to Lhasa from Chengdu ( B )

After breakfast, you'll be escorted to the airport and take a flight to Lhasa. Upon arriving at Lhasa Gonggar Airport, you will be picked up by local tour guide at the airport hall, then be escorted to your hotel in Lhasa city in a private vehicle. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the local areas and acclimatize yourself to the air, temperature and high altitude of Lhasa.

High Altitude Acclimation Tips:1) go for some leisure walking to acclimate the high altitude but avoid strenuous activity after arrival; 2) you'd better not have bath, in case of catching a cold; 3) drink more water, and have some fruit; 4) have a good rest.

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Day 13 Lhasa ( B )

Start today’s Lhasa exploration with an exciting visit to the landmark - Potala Palace which is regarded as one of the most beautiful architectural building in the world. You will climb up the palace along the zigzag stone paths with white-and-red walls to the top of the palace where you can not only appreciate the exotic Tibetan-style architecture, but also get a great view of Lhasa’s urban areas, then walk into the inner space of Potala Palace to explore the stately chapels and learn about the history of the palace.

Continuing your exploration, you will then get to Jokhang Temple which is considered as the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism. Each day, there are thousands of pilgrims coming from different places in Tibet to the temple to worship to the Buddha. This temple is also known as the “house of Buddha” because it keeps the precious Jowo Rinpoche, the life-sized (5 foot/1.5m) image of the Shakyamuni at the age of 12. The last site for today’s exploration is the famous Barkor Street. It is a circular and wide street encircling the Jokhang Temple. The local people like to walk on the street for several circles usually in the late afternoon as a daily tradition of pilgrimage. The street also has many shops selling a wide variety of traditional Tibetan goods, religious items and handcrafts.

Tips of today: 1) there are 1,080 steps up to climb to the top of Potala Palace, so don’t walk in a rush, which may cause high altitude sickness; 2) taking photos is not allowed inside the palace; 3) today you will be mainly outside, please bring some water, a hat, sun cream, and sun glasses with you.

  • Potala Palace in Spring
  • Jokhang Temple Eave Lion out of Eave
  • Souvenirs Sold on Barkhor Street Souvenirs Sold on Barkhor Street

Day 14 Lhasa ( B )

After breakfast, you will firstly go to visit the beautiful Norbulingka which used to be the former summer palace of Dalai Lamas in the ancient time, and now is a public park. It is famous for its Potrang, the private palaces of former Dalai lamas with grandiose Tibetan architecture style. Next, drive several kilometers to the western outskirts of Lhasa to visit Drepung Monastery. Drepung, in Tibetan, means “prosperity”. Since its establishment, Drepung Monastery has always been one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. In its heyday, there were more than 10,000 monks lived and studied in the monastery. Throughout its history, many important and famous Tibetan leaders used to study here, especially the Dalai Lamas. So Drepung Monastery is also respectfully known as the “Mother School of Dalai Lamas”.

In the afternoon, you will be taken to another famous monastery in Lhasa - Sera Monastery. It is famous for the spectacular “Buddhism Debating”. As a daily routine, the monks gather in a courtyard, and debate on the Buddhist doctrines with supplemented gestures, which is thought to be helpful to facilitates better comprehension of the Buddhist philosophy to attain higher levels of study. After enjoying the "Buddhism Debating", you will be transferred back to the city. The rest time is your own free time to rest.

The Etiquette of Visiting Monastery: 1) you shouldn’t wear short and uncover shoulders; 2) taking off your sunglasses and hat before entering the chapels; 3) taking photos is usually not allowed inside the chapels.

  • Sera Monastery Is Famous for Its Buddhism Debating
  • Debating Monks of Sera Monastery Debating Monks
  • Six-letter Mantra Rock Painting Six-letter Mantra Rock Painting

Day 15 Lhasa - Shigatse / 360km, About 6hrs' Driving ( B )

Today, you will leave Lhasa and drive about 8 hours to Shigatse, the second largest city in Tibet. It may be a long journey, but there are many things to do along the road. The first site you will reach is the holy Yamdrok Lake (altitude: 4,400m). As the largest fresh lake in the northern of the Himalaya Mountains, it spreads about 675 square meters from south to north, like an eardrop lying in the arms of snow-capped giant mountains. Viewing from a distance, you can see fertile pastures full of yaks and sheep, and some small Tibetan villages along the lakeshore. Keeping driving not so far from Yamdrok Lake, you will see the imposing Karola Glacier (altitude: 5,045m) towering aloft on the right side of the road.

Continuing your trip, you will get to the historical city of Gyantse. Feel hungry? Have a good lunch in the town, then go to visit the mysterious Palcho Monastery (altitude: 4,040m). The monks and tradition of three important sects of Tibetan Buddhism - Sakyapa, Zhalupa and Gelukpa, peacefully coexist in this monastery. Its Kumbum, which is 35 meters high and has 76 small chapels with hundreds images of Kriyatantras , is believed to be the largest such structure in Tibet.

After the Gyantse sightseeing, keep drive about 3 hours, you will arrive at your hotel in Shigatse (altitude: 3,800m). Have a good rest!

Tips of today: 1) wear warm clothes to prevent from cold and wild; 2) pack some food and drinks with you because you will spend much time on the road.

  • Lake Yamdrok Yumtso with the view of Mt. Nojin Kangtsang
  • Palcho Monastery Charming Palcho Monastery
  • Karola Glaceier Karola Glaceier shines a brilliant white in the sunlight

Day 16 Shigatse - Mount Everest / 350km, About 7hrs's Driving ( B )

Today, before you driving Mount Everest, you will firstly take a visit to the official seat of Panchen Lama - Tashilhunpo Monastery which is also the largest and most influential Gelug Monastery in Shigatse prefecture. Here you will see a giant statue of Future Buddha, the largest one of its kind on earth ( 26.2 meters high and 11.5 meters wide ), decorated with precious pearls, turquoises, corals and ambers.

Then, you will leave Shigatse for the final destination of your Tibet trip - Mount Everest. Though being a long driving of about 7 hours, but the views along the road are stupendous. In clear days, you can see the clear face the Himalaya range including several famous peaks over 8,000 meters, such as Makalu, Lhotse, Gyachung and Cho Oyu. When you finally get to the Rongbuk Monastery, and get the first sight of the mighty Everest, you will immerse in a solemn ethereal mood and find all the efforts you have made along the long way are not in vain. Located about 5100 meters above the sea level, Rongbuk Monastery is the highest monastery in the world. It is the best location to take some great photos of the front face of Mount Everest. The rest of today is free for you to visit the Rongbuk Monastery and explore surrounding landscape.

Accommodation: if you visit Mount Everest during off season (November to April), you will accommodate at Rongbuk Guest House near the Rongbuk Monastery; if you visit Mount Everest during the peak season (May to October), you will accommodate at the Tibetan Tents Camp which is only run between May and October by local Tibetans. It is near Rongbuk Monastery as well. Please note that the accommodation at both places is very simple and basic, only dorm beds with communal squat toilets are available. Duvets, heated blankets and hot water will be provided, and you are suggested to bring your own sleeping bag and toilet paper. There is no running water, sinks or showers. The dining room just offer basic breakfast and dinner without menu. Remember to dress warmly all the time.

Tips of today: 1) currently Everest Base Camp is not open for tourists for environmental protection and the Everest landscape can be also enjoyed at Rongbuk Monastery - closest place to Mount Everest tourists can reach; 2) the vehicles and buses can only escort travelers to the Parking Lot which is about 20km away from Rongbuk Monastery, and then you need to take a 30 minutes' scenic park bus there; 3) the Everest altitude marker, a tablet reading "Mt. Qomolangma Elevation Measurement" has been transferred near Rongbuk Monastery and you can take a photo to commemorate your wonderful adventure tour; 4) bring a warm coat for low temperature in Everest and avoid strenuous activity to prevent from high altitude sickness.

  • Rongbuk Monastery A devoted pilgrim in Rongbuk Monastery
  • Great view of Mount Everest from Rongbuk Monastery Great view of Mount Everest from Rongbuk Monastery
  • Dining Room of Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse Dining Room in Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse

Day 17 Everest - Gyirong Town / 370km, About 8hrs' Driving

Wake up early to enjoy the marvelous sunrise on the peak of the world from Rongbuk Monastery. The top part of the Mount Everest is always covered by snow all the year round, and when the sun shines on the mountain, the peak is like a giant white pyramid, which is one of the most famous sceneries of Mount Everest. In bright days, you can also see a wisp of cloud hanging above the top of Mount Everest. It flies eastward in the fast western wind just like a flapping flag. This unique phenomenon is the spectacular “Cloud Flag”. The cloud will change from surging waves into a thin cooking smoke or from galloping steeds into the mysterious veil of a goddess.

Till now your Mount Everest adventure is about to end. The rest of today is to drive to Gyirong Town. The views along the road are stupendous. In clear days, you can see the clear face of Shishapangma Peak and enjoy the beautiful view of Pekutso Lake.

Accommodate at Gyirong Town.

Tips of today: 1) the sunrise usually starts around 6:30 am to 7am on Mount Everest; 2) keep warm all the time.

  • Snow-Capped Mt. Everest and Himalayan Range Mt. Everest - the Highest Mountain in the World
  • Walking Around on Mount Everest Mount Everest Base Camp Walking Around

Day 18 Gyirong - Kathmandu / 185km, About 7hrs' Driving

Today, you will leave the territory of Tibet. Drive about 25km to the Gyirong Port where you will walk across the custom to Nepal territory and transfer to Kathmandu. Though the distance is only about 160km, it takes more than 6 hours to drive to Kathmandu from Gyirong Port because the road is narrow and bumpy. During the rainy season, the road is muddy and may be closed for the landslides. 

Tips of Today: Our service will end at the border of Tibet and Nepal. If you want, we can also arrange the transfer from the border to Kathmandu for you with an extra charge. 

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Price & Service Guide

The quotation for this trip is per person

1. This price is based on a group of 2 adult travelers who will take our private tour and share one standard rooms in regular local 4-star hotel in lower seasons.

2. This price is subject to change according to your traveling season, group size, hotel class, change of activities in your itinerary and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate. If you want a lower price, you can get more people to join you, or use economy class hotels.

3. This price is only valid to March 31, 2025.

4. Reference exchange rate of USD 1= RMB 6.85. The final quotation will be adjusted according to the latest real-time exchange rate.

What's included in this price?

  • Private professional English-speaking tour guide.
  • Private vehicle and Luggage Transfers.
  • Airport (or train) pick up and drop off.
  • All necessary Tibet travel permits, including Tibet Entry Permit, Aliens' Travel Permit and Border Pass.
  • All accommodations, based on double-occupancy. Medium standard accommodation with attached bathroom on twin sharing basis. Guesthouse or tent in remote areas.
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary. ( “B” for breakfast; “L” for lunch; “D” for dinner.)
  • Admission fees and activity expenses, as noted in the itinerary.
  • Service Charge (the planning, handling, operational and communication charges) & government taxes.
  • Tourists Accident/Casualty Insurance

What's excluded in this price?

  • International airfare to and from China.
  • Domestic flights within China.
  • China visa.
  • Sightseeing not listed in the itinerary.
  • Meals not listed in the itinerary.
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, drink, fax, telephone call, optional tour activities, etc.
  • Gratuities, tips to guides, drivers, bellboys, etc.
  • Excess Baggage Charges.
  • Single room supplement.
  • Additional tour service and/or activities.

Value for money:

While the trip of a lifetime is priceless, we know value is a vital aspect for those deciding which tour to choose.

When comparing tour prices, be sure to compare like to like. Our tours are designed to ensure that our customers experience all the culture, history, and beauty that Tibet has to offer, and at a reasonable price.

A great way to enjoy the lowest possible price is to invite more people to join your trip to share the travel experience as well as the tour expense. The more people in a group, the lower the price per person. (We recommend you join our group tour if you are traveling alone. Please contact our travel consultant for more information)

Booking early is also an easy way to ensure the best rate! We highly recommend you contact us at least 1 month before your planned departure date.

FAQs of This Trip

  1. Service Information- What is a private Tibet tour package?

    Private Tibet Tour Package means you will have your own private local tour guide, private vehicle and private driver for your group. You don't have to share the vehicle with others. You tour guide will take care of only your group. With the help of your private tour guide, you will see more in Tibet, communicating with locals to learn about Tibetan lifestyle and culture.

    You have the flexibility to arrange the group activities accorddingly, such as changing the visiting order of attractions or extending the visiting time of certain place. You can also stop on the road as you need.

    If you are traveling with your family or a group of friends, a private tour for your group is ideal. As you have more people in the group, the price won't be much higher than a join-in group tour. It is a good way to save money and enjoy ultimate service.

  2. Accommodation Information

    In Tibet, the overall accommodation situation is not as good as many other parts of China. There are only a few star hotels available in Tibet. In remote areas like Mt. Everest base camp, Mt. Kailash, only guesthouse or tents are available for travelers.

    We hand-picked the hotels in each city and areas for you to ensure you have reasonable places to stay while traveling in Tibet. They are in convenient locations and are as comfortable as the local can provide. We also tend to use hotels with unique Tibetan features.

    In 3- or 4-star hotels in cities and towns like Lhasa, Tsetang, Shigatse and Gyangtse, you do not need to worry about sanitation. Though, it is a fact that traveling in Tibet is a bit hard. If you are going to remote areas like Mt. Everest or stay near the lakes, it is best to bring a sleeping bag to ensure that you have a nice sleep en route. 

    For trekking and cycling tours:

    1, Stay in local hotel or guesthouse.
    2, Stay in tent. (Camping facilities will be provided)
    3, Stay in local Tibetan’s family

  3. Meal Information

    Breakfast: If you are staying in a star hotel, breakfast is usually included. If you are staying in a guesthouse or tent, breakfast is not included.

    Lunch and Dinner:
    We don’t usually include lunch and dinner in our tour itinerary. We do arrange lunch or dinner for you at your request though. However, we prefer to give you the freedom to choose the food you want and pay on the spot. From our previous customers' responses, we find that most of our clients prefer to leave the dinners open on their own so that they can enjoy some time to themselves. They can choose either to go to a local restaurant for a little adventure or to have a simple dinner in the hotel where they stay. They may also prefer to choose a restaurant which appeals to their own unique tastes.

    We have created a list of our favorite restaurants in Tibet and hand-picked some local restaurants to recommend to our customers. In Lhasa, you can choose Chinese food, Western food, Tibetan food as well as Nepalese food and Indian food. In "off-the-beaten-road" destinations, choices are limited. Our tour guide will be more than happy to recommend good restaurants for you and take you to the restaurants available according to your tastes and preferred style of dishes. Soon you’ll develop your favorite Tibetan dishes!

    Meals arrangement in trekking and cycling tours:

    Service one: (recommended if you only have 1-2 people in your group and the trekking day is less than 3 days)
    Our tour guide will take you to a local supermarket to buy the food you need for the trekking. You will need to bring some cash with you. We recommend energy bars, chocolate, water, fruit, and cookies. If the trekking length is less than 3 days, bringing food along can be a good way to lower the costs.

    Service two:
    Some of our tour guides are able to cook for customers for a little bit extra service charge. You can contact our travel consultants to see if it is possible to arrange this service for you. It can be difficult to arrange this service for you in peak season, so we can’t guarantee this service at the moment; however, we will try our best to provide this service for you.

    Service three: (recommended if you have 5-6 people in your group)
    We highly recommend you hire a cook for the trekking tour. As you will trek for average 5-6 hours per day which requires lots of energy, it is important to have proper meal during the trekking section. If you like, we will hire a chef to follow your tour and cook for you during the trekking. They can make sure you have hot food during trekking. They will carry all necessary cooking items and equipment including stove and utensils with them. Some cooks will teach you how to cook as well and make cakes with the group on the last day.

    You can communicate with your cook and let them know what kind of meal you prefer. You may prescribe the menu for cooking and tell the cook whatever requirements you have.

    Daily meal arrangement for your reference:

    Breakfast: coffee, milk, eggs, bread
    Lunch: rice and vegetables
    Dinner: noodles or Spaghetti with vegetables

     

  4. Our Tour Guide and Driver Information

    Local Tour Guides
    Our tour guides are born and raised in the regions we visit so they know all the potential difficulties and how to avoid them. They are highly trained, speak excellent English and know the local myths, traditions and history which they will share with you. Wherever you travel, our guides are the key that unlocks each destination and make the trip memorable and unique.

    Private Driver and Vehicles
    Our drivers have many years of driving experience in the areas and are very reliable. With Tibet Discovery, you can rest assured that we only use the highest quality vehicles available. We use mainly private vehicles, to ensure we get to our destinations as swiftly and smoothly as possible, as well as allowing the freedom and flexibility to stop and look around or stretch your legs.

    If the tour is mainly around Lhasa, we usually choose to use a minivan as the road condition around Lhasa is pretty good, and the minivan costs less as well. If the tour is covering places with poor road conditions or the distances are quite far, we also offer 4WD off road vehicles.

    Notes: Tipping is not traditional in China and was actually illegal until the 1980s. While Chinese do not expect tips from other Chinese, they have come to expect tips from Western travelers. Due to this, it is highly recommended that you tip your tour guides and drivers as they are aware that it is a “Western custom” and may worry that you were not happy with their service if they do not receive a tip.

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  5. Packing List: What should I bring along with me on the tour?

    For clothing, we suggest casual style and layered clothing because temperatures in Tibet vary greatly during a day. Down coat is necessary if you go beyond Lhasa and Shigatse to remote areas, e.g. the Everest Camp or further to Mt.Kailash. Sun glasses, sun block,moisture cream are necessary too.

    For food, 2L of water each day, and some snacks. We also find the energy drink Red Bull is a great energy boost while traveling in Tibet.

    For medicines, we suggest that you take some pain-killer pills with you and enough medicine for colds, diarrhea, nausea and fever. Some nasal ointment andthroat-moistening pills will be of great help for those who are sensitive tochilly weather conditions. Please consult your doctor prior to your travel toTibet. Medicine is a must for travelers to Tibet.

    Note: You don't have to worry about your luggage in trekking tours as we could hire abelly boy and Yak and Yak man to carry your luggage for you during the trekking section of the tour. It is an optional service. 

  6. High Altitude Sickness Information: How can I prepare for high altitude adjustment?

    Anxiety is the common cause of mountain sickness. Our customers age range from 20 years old to 70 years old, there is no evidence that suggests that age has anything to do with the occurrence of mountain sickness.

    Taking a Tibet tour with Tibet Discovery, our tour guide will take care of you and give advice on how to avoid high altitude sickness on arrival. A bottle of oxygen will be prepared for each person for emergency use when the tour includes visiting places like Mt. Everest, Lake Namtso, Mt. Kailash and activities like trekking and biking. Always remember that if you have any problems or feel uncomfortable, please tell your guide immediately or contact our travel consultant.

  7. Tibet Travel Permits and China Visa

    All foreign tourists and Taiwan tourists must apply for a Tibet Entry Permit issued by the TTB (Tibet Tourism Bureau) for entry to Lhasa or any other parts of the Tibet Autonomous Region.

    We will take care of all necessary Tibet permits in all of our Tibet tours. It is included in the price quotation and it is part of our tour services. It's advisable to apply for your travel permits at least 20 days prior to your entry date. The earlier, the easier for us to get a permit for you.

    Please tell us your real occupation when applying a tibet travel permit. Journalists and people involved with political matters (such asdiplomats and government officials) require more complicated procedures to beissued a permit.

    A valid passport and a valid China visa is needed when applying a Tibet travel permit. The cost of a Chinese Visa is not included in our tour, so you have to apply for your China Visa in your country by yourself. If you have any question in terms of applying a China visa and filling out the application form, feel free to contact our Travel Consultant.

  8. Questions About Attractions and Tour Activities

    Acclimatize: We suggest that you take it easy for your first few days in Tibet. Don't push yourself physically since your body will require some time to get used to the high altitude.

    Photography: When photographing Tibetans, please be sure to get their permission first. Also, when inside the religious sites, please be aware that if photography is permitted. It is not allowed to take pictures while inside the halls of Potala Palace and JokhangTemple.  Make sure you bring a flashlight if you want to see the inside of the monastery, though please ask for permission when taking pictures in the monastery. Some Monastery might charge visitors a 10-30RMB fee for taking pictures. Please ask your tour guide if you are not sure.

    Free time: During the free time of your trip, like the rest of the first day and the last day before departure, you can walk around on your own and do some shopping if you wish.

  9. Best time to visit Tibet

    Best time to go:

    Peak Season: June, July, August, September (June to October 15th )
    In July and August, the crowds will be considerably larger and the costs for vehicle, food, accommodation, and tour guides are higher. June-August generally has great weather, though during July and August, Tibet tends to be extremely crowded as many Chinese travel there for their summer vacation. As July and August is the peak season to travel to Tibet. We highly recommend you avoid those two months to reduce the costs.

    Best Value: April, May, and Late October to November (April 16th to May 31st)
    Late April to Early June, late October to November is the best value time to go, as the weather still nice and the cost is considerably less. The tour costs between this time is usually a few hundred dollars cheaper than peak season.

    Shoulder Season: Late November December, January, February, early April (Nov 16th to April 15th)
    December-February tends to be a slow period for travel to Tibet. The weather is generally quite cold, though there will be no crowds like there are during the peak season. Another benefit to traveling during the shoulder season is that prices are considerably lower. The view might not be as vivid but you can enjoy another side of Tibet.

    Note: Above information applies to most Tibet tours. For specific best travel time, please contact our travel consultant.

Reviews of Our Customers

Still not know us well? Read what other travelers are sharing about their Tibet trip with Tibet Discovery (We only accept reviews from confirmed travelers who took our tours / activities, so you can surely rely on the reviews)

Thank you Wonder,

A wonderful trip, giving me a great impression of Chengdu and Chongqing, thanks to the professional guide by Ellen and David.

Jesús

 February 18, 2024
Thank you very much Mr Leo Li,

we were pleasantly satisfied with the service provided by you.

Pablo was very empathetic and adjusted to our needs, particularly in the speed at which we could walk. His Spanish very good. The van and driver also ok.

The sites visited were wounderful and the time spent in them was well balance.

EVERYTHING OK, thank you and greetings from Mexico.

Jesús

 December 20, 2023
Hi Tracy,

We had a great holiday. Thanks for organizing it. Tashi was an excellent guide and took good care of us. Here is the feedback form.

Akhilesh

 November 28, 2023
Free Quote for the Trip

Recommended Add-on Options

Tibetan Yak by the side of Namtso Lake

Namtso Lake, one of the five most beautiful lakes in China, should not be missed by any traveler who visits Tibet.

Namtso is the best place to explore the nature of Tibet. With the snowy mountains in the background, the crystal-clear dazzling blue water, Namtso is stretching to the horizon. In clear days, the lake looks like a beautiful turquoise surrounded by magnificent snow-capped Tanggula Mountains, and the lake shore is green, wide and open, dotted with tents, yaks and sheep of local nomads. For travelers, Namtso is the ideal place for photography, while for Tibetans, it is a sacred and magical lake for pilgrimage.

Useful Trip Notes

  • 1. Tibet Permits
    There are several permits required to visit Tibet. Tibet Entry Permit, issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau, is the most important one which has to be obtained before your trip because you must have it to take your flight/train to Tibet. To get the permit, you have to book a Tibet tour with us, and send us your passport and Chinese visa about 20 days in advance, and then let us apply for the permit (all Tibet permits can only be applied by travel agency). If you travel to other prefectures like Shigatse, Nyingchi, Shannan, etc, you also have to obtain an Alien Travel Permit. If you travel to Mount Everest, you have to obtain a Border Permit. (Tibet Discovery, with office in Lhasa, has always kept up with the latest news on Tibet Permits. Traveling with us, all your permits are guaranteed as long as you are qualified to the requirements.)
  • 2. Available Months to Visit Tibet
    Generally speaking, months from April to October are recommended. Other months are usually very cold, and possible have heavy snow, especially in regions like Mount Everest, Mount Kailash, Namtso Lake, etc.
  • 3. High Altitude Sickness
    The average altitude of Tibet is about 4000 meters above the sea level (Lhasa: 3700m; EBC: 5200m; Namtso: 4718m). You may suffer a bit from High Altitude Sickness in the beginning days of your Tibet trip if you haven’t had rich high plateau travel experience. But don’t worry too much, the high altitude can be acclimatized usually in 2~3 days. Our suggestion is to take a physical examination and get suggestions from your doctor, and also bring some medicines to prevent from High Altitude Sickness before your trip. While in Tibet, you should keep warm all the time, avoid strenuous activities, drink more water and eat more vegetables and carbohydrates. You’d better not take showers during the first two days after your arrival at Tibet. If you don’t feel well, get help from your tour guide or go to the hospital without any delay.
  • 4. How to Go to Tibet
    In this tour, you will take a flight to Lhasa from Beijing. There are usually 13 daily flights taking off from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport to Lhasa Gonggar Airport. It takes you from Beijing to Lhasa within 2.5 hours. You are suggested to take a morning flight to Lhasa so that you can have a half day to acclimatize yourself to the high altitude environment.. (Other popular gateway cities are Beijing, Chongqing, Xian, Kunming, Shanghai, Xining)
  • 5. Packing and Wearing Ideas
    Firstly you can’t forget your passport and Chinese Visa. A large backpack and a smaller one are recommended (the smaller one can be used for daily activities). Also bring the necessary medicine you need. Other stuffs like sunglasses, snow glasses, hats, lip balm, sun block are recommended.
    As for wearing, you are suggested to dress in layers (both thin and thick jackets). Down jacket is necessary in Spring and Autumn. A pair of durable and comfortable shoes is necessary.

Other Recommended Tour Packages

Tibet has too much to offer and our aim is to bring you the best experience in Tibet. Following are some other recommended Tibet tour packages that you may be interested in. All of our Tibet tour packages are customizable to meet your personal requirements. You can also contact us to customize a trip if you want.

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Price notes:

  • 1. based on double occupancy
  • 2. 3 star accommodation level in low season
  • 3. international airfare is not included
  • 4. price is subjected to change according to group size and payment methods