Tibet Overland with Everest Base Camp

Destination

Tibet

Max. Altitude

5,150m/16,900ft

Difficulty

HardPhysical training before the trip should begin no later than 2 months before, as you will have a height of 3,000 meters above sea level and more. Hiking is from 6 km daily with an average pace that can be maintained for hours. It is important to have physical fitness & endurance. You will also need the right gear and clothes according to the weather.

Best Season

Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sept, Oct

Transportation

Private Vehicle

Start / End

Kathmandu/Kathmandu

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Route

Lhasa-EBC-KTM

Travel Distance

1,330km/826miles

Starting from Lhasa, the Tibet Overland Tour with Everest Base Camp is an incredible journey that offers a blend of spiritual and natural beauty. Tibet is a forbidden land famous for its ancient monasteries and unique religion, which has been practiced for over 1000 years. Now, imagine exploring the base of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest, alongside the breathtaking beauty of Tibet. Isn’t it a rewarding experience? Merging a drive and a short hike, the tour will take you 5,364 meters above sea level.

During this tour, you will visit iconic sites like Tashihunpo Monastery, Shigatse, Jokhang Temple, Xigatse, Gyantse, and Lhatse. Along the way, marvel at the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s holiest lakes, and see the stunning Karola Glacier up close. As you approach Everest Base Camp, you will visit the renowned Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest monastery. You can experience a nomadic culture and spot unique high-altitude wildlife, such as yaks and Tibetan antelopes.

Per Person From

$999

8 Days

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Per Person From$9998 Days

Major Highlights of Tibet Overland with Everest Base Camp

  • Witness the panoramic north-face views of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest, from Tibet’s Everest Base Camp.
  • Cross the vast Tibetan Plateau, high mountain passes, and picturesque landscapes.
  • Visit the world’s highest monastery, Rongbuk Monastery, and enjoy great views of Everest and spiritual insights.
  • Discover iconic landmarks such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street for a cultural exploration.
  • Cross thrilling high-altitude passes like Gyatso La, offering stunning Himalayan vistas.
  • Experience the rich Buddhist heritage at monasteries such as Tashilhunpo and Sakya.
  • Spot yaks, Tibetan antelopes, and rare high-altitude flora along the journey.
  • Challenge yourself with high-altitude travel and create unforgettable memories with a sense of achievement.

Tibet Overland with Everest Base Camp at a Glance

Distance, walking time and high point for each day
DayItineraryDistance / TimeAltitude
01Arrival in Lhasaroad transfer62 km1 hrs3,656 m| Lhasa
02Lhasa sightseeingroad transfer35 km6 hrs3,656 mLhasa
03Lhasa sightseeingroad transfer50 km6 hrs3,656 mLhasa
04Lhasa to Gyantseroad transfer268 km5 hrs4,852 mKamba la pass
05Gyantse to Shigatseroad transfer93 km2 hrs3,977 mGyantse
06Shigatse to Rongbukroad transfer333 km6 hrs5,009 mRongbuk Monastery
07Hike up to EBC and to Kyirongroad transfer267 km6 hrs5,150 mEverest BC
08Kyirong to the border and Kathmanduroad transfer222 km8 hrs2,774 m
Totals0.0 km0 hrs5,150 m

Reviews from our Guests

From travellers who walked this exact itinerary.

★★★★★

The hike to Everest Base Camp was tough with the altitude, but reaching it felt like winning a mini-life challenge. The mountains are gigantic, glaciers everywhere, it’s unreal. I kept turning around to stare at Lhotse and Makalu. They were massive and so close. Totally worth the sore legs.

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ZN
Zofia NowakAugust 2025 · Guided by Kumar Thapa
★★★★★

Honestly, arriving in Lhasa blew me away. The air is so fresh, the mountains are everywhere, and just walking around the city makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. Potala Palace is even more stunning in person than in photos, and Jokhang Temple has this calm energy that’s hard to explain. I kept stopping to watch monks and locals going about their day.It was such a unique experience. The Himalayan 360 team made it even better.

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LS
Lucas SilvaAugust 2025 · Guided by Ram Bhandari
★★★★★

Visiting Potala Palace was really cool. The building is huge, and inside the walls are full of old paintings and golden decorations. Climbing to the top was tiring, but the view of Lhasa from up there made it all worth it. I spent a long time just staring at the city and mountains while my guide was explaining everything about the place.

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SD
Shekhar DubeyAugust 2025 · Guided by Kumar Thapa
★★★★★

Reaching Rongbuk Monastery is an experience I’ll never forget. The drive was long and tiring, but then Everest appeared in front of me with its huge and breathtaking aura. The guesthouse was simple, but it doesn’t matter because the view outside your window is incredible. I just stared at the mountain for hours and felt that my money was totally worth it.

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DC
Daniel CohenAugust 2025 · Guided by Kumar Thapa
★★★★★

Shigatse was surprisingly fun to explore. The town has big monasteries, small streets with local shops, and a really real vibe that in fact you could feel how people live there. Visiting Tashilhunpo Monastery and seeing the giant Buddha statue up close was impressive. I also liked walking around the town and noticing the small details of daily life. I didn’t expect enjoying Tibet as much as I did!

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NA
Noah AndersonAugust 2025 · Guided by Kumar Thapa
★★★★★

The drives in Tibet are long, but the scenery makes it fun. Snowy peaks, valleys, rivers, and tiny villages. I just kept looking out the window the whole time. I actually enjoyed the quiet moments on the road. It gave me time to think and just soak in the world of the mountains. I had my friends with me so the drive was even better and memorable.

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JW
Jack WilsonAugust 2025 · Guided by Kumar Thapa
★★★★★

Momos, noodle soups, butter tea, seriously, I didn’t expect to like it so much. Every meal felt hearty and perfect after a long day of exploring. Plus, the small restaurants and teahouses are cozy, and locals are super friendly. It really adds to the whole experience. I definitely didn’t miss my regular food. It was that good!

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AM
Ananya MehtaAugust 2025 · Guided by Nabaraj
★★★★★

On the way to Gyantse, we stopped at Yamdrok Lake, and I couldn’t believe my eyes. The water was bright blue, and the mountains behind it made it look unreal. I walked along the shore for a bit, took some photos, and just enjoyed the quiet environment. It felt like one of those moments you don’t want to end. I was already missing the place the moment we got in our vehicle.

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RR
Ruhi RoyAugust 2025 · Guided by Ram Bhandari

Tibet Overland with Everest Base Camp Day By Day Itinerary

Download this itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Lhasa

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Time:00:00-00:00
Travel Duration:1hr 30min
Travel Distance:62km/miles
Highest Altitude:3,656M/11,995ft | Lhasa
  • Attractions of the Day: Lhasa town

You can choose any means of transportation, flight or train, to reach Lhasa. As you reach Lhasa, you will see the crisp mountain air and a spectacular view of the surrounding hills. One of our tour guides will meet you at the airport, and the journey now officially begins.

We will begin with a scenic drive to the city, passing through traditional Tibetan villages and rolling plains dotted with grazing yaks. Strolling through the town, we can see locals spinning prayer wheels, monks in deep conversation, and the vibrant Tibetan culture unfolding before us. We will conclude our first day by arriving at the Yak Hotel.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:N/A
Accommodation:Yak Hotel or Similar

Day 02: Lhasa sightseeing

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Time:10:00-16:00
Travel Duration:6 hours
Travel Distance:35km/22miles
Highest Altitude:3,656m/11,995ft Lhasa
  • Attractions of the Day: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Market

Today, we explore Lhasa’s most famous landmarks. Our first stop is the Potala Palace (3,750m), the former winter home of the Dalai Lama. It sits high on Marpo Ri (Red Hill) and offers a stunning view of Lhasa city. Here, we will see ancient murals, golden stupas, and sacred scriptures. Next, we will visit Jokhang Temple (3,650m), the most sacred temple in Tibet. Inside the place is the Jowo Rinpoche statue, one of the most revered Buddha statues in Tibet.

At the very end of our day, we will explore the lively Barkhor Market. The narrow streets are full of local shops selling Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, and incense. Walking along the ancient kora (pilgrimage path), we will see monks, locals, and travelers all moving in the same spiritual rhythm. As the day comes to an end, we will return to our hotel, filled with the sights, sounds, and spirit of Lhasa.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Yak Hotel or Similar

Day 03: Lhasa sightseeing

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Time:10:00-16:00
Travel Duration:6 hours
Travel Distance:50km/31miles
Highest Altitude:3,656m/11,995ft Lhasa
  • Attractions of the Day: Drepung Monastery & Sera Monastery

The third day of the Tibet EBC tour in Lhasa continues with visits to two of the most famous monasteries of Lhasa. Our first stop is Drepung Monastery (3,800m), one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Tibet. It is on the hillside, offering a beautiful view of Lhasa and the surrounding valley. The peaceful surroundings and magnificent architecture take us to the lives of Tibetan monks.

​In the afternoon, we will head to Sera Monastery (3,600m), renowned for its famous monk debates, which take place within the monastery’s courtyard as monks discuss various topics related to Buddhism. Like day 2, today will also be a culturally and spiritually rich day. At about 4 p.m., we will conclude our day by getting back to the Yak Hotel.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Yak Hotel or Similar

Day 04: Drive from Lhasa to Gyantse

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Time:10:00-15:00
Travel Duration:5 hours
Travel Distance:268km/167miles
Highest Altitude:4,852m/15,919ft Kamba la pass
  • Attractions of the Day: Yamdrok Lake, Kora LA, and Kamba La pass

On Day 4, after spending 4 days in Lhasa, we will drive from Lhasa to Gyantse, taking in the scenic views along the way. Our first stop will be the stunning Yamdrok Lake, where we will take in the turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains. We will then cross the Kora La Pass and Kamba La Pass, both offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan range.

Continuing, the route will pass by some of the most remote Tibetan villages where traditional lifestyles can be observed. Finally, we will arrive in Gyantse, where a view of the historic Gyantse Dzong awaits us, followed by check-in at the hotel for the night.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:3-star Hotel or Similar

Day 05: Drive from Gyantse to Shigatse

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Time:11:00-13:00
Travel Duration:2 hr
Travel Distance:93 km/58miles
Highest Altitude:3,977m/13,048ft Gyantse
  • Attractions of the day: Pholkor and Kumbum Monastery

Today, we will continue our journey to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. Our first stop is the Pelkor Chode Monastery (3,850m), where we explore the stunning Kumbum Stupa, a unique structure with 108 chapels. The artwork here tells the story of Tibet’s religious traditions. As we drive, we will pass through small popular Tibet towns and rural villages, where the local people live harmoniously with nature.

Once in Shigatse, we will visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery (3,845m), one of Tibet’s most important monasteries. Here, we will see the Maitreya Buddha statue and wander through the peaceful courtyards to learn about Tibetan Buddhism. After a day of cultural exploration, we will return to our hotel in Shigatse to rest for the night.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Hotel Tashichodak or Similar

Day 06: Drive From Shigatse to Rongbuk

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Time:09:00-15:00
Travel Duration:6hr
Travel Distance:333km/207miles
Highest Altitude:5,009m/16,434ft Rongbuk Monastery
  • Attractions of the Day: Tashilhumpu Monastery, Ronbuk Monastery

On day 6 of the Tibet trip with EBC, after having our morning breakfast, we will set out for Rongbuk, the highest monastery in the world. The drive is long, but the views make it all worthwhile. We will pass through the Gyatso La Pass (5,248m), where we will stop to take in the awe-inspiring sights of the Himalayan peaks. The road takes us higher into the mountains, and the landscape becomes more rugged and remote.

Upon reaching Rongbuk Monastery (5,009m), we will get a view of Mt Everest, which is nothing short of spectacular. Another major attraction of our today’s journey is Tashilhumpu Monastery, where we will make a short visit. We will spend the night in a basic guesthouse in Rongbuk, surrounded by the stark beauty of the Tibetan plateau.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Rongbuk Guest House (Very basic)

Day 07: Hike up to EBC and Drive to Kyirong

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Time:10:00-16:00
Travel Duration:6 hour
Travel Distance:267km/166miles
Highest Altitude:5,150m/16,900ft Everest BC

Today is the highlight of the trip as we will hike to Everest Base Camp in Tibet (5,150m). We will get up early and trek for about 2 to 3 hours to reach the EBC. Although it can be quite a challenge, standing at the foot of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest, is a rewarding accomplishment. The views of Mount Everest, along with other peaks such as Lhotse and Makalu, are breathtaking from this vantage point.

After spending time at the base camp, we begin our descent and drive toward Kyirong. The tour route changes again as we pass through valleys and small Tibetan and Sherpa villages. We will reach Kyirong by evening and rest in a comfortable hotel in Kyirong, reflecting on our tour to Everest Base Camp.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Kyirong Hotel or Similar

Day 08: Drive from Kyirong to the border and Kathmandu

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Time:07:00-15:00
Travel Duration:8 hr
Travel Distance:222km/138miles
Highest Altitude:2,774m/9,101ft
  • Attractions of the day: Border, Hill, and River

On our final day, we will drive toward the border, passing through stunning landscapes with green hills, flowing rivers, and terraced farms. The landscape becomes more lush and vibrant as we approach the Nepal-Tibet border. After reaching the border, we cross over to Nepal and drive to Kathmandu. Here, our 8 days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp journey ends. Reaching Kathmandu, you will have ample time to see the city and unwind after an extraordinary adventure across Tibet.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast
Accommodation:Kathmandu Business Hotel or similar

Tibet Overland with Everest Base Camp Included/ Excluded

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Transfer

  • Border to Kathmandu by Non-AC Vehicle
  • Transfer in the Tibet side by Coach as per group size
  • International and Domestic airfare
  • Any flight during the tour

Accommodation & Meals

  • All accommodation in a 3-star hotel and a Local guest house (on a sharing basis)
  • Meals: 7 Breakfast, 0 Lunch, 0 Dinner
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival or late departure. Or Early back from Tibet.
  • Lunch and dinner during the tour.

Visa & Permit

  • All necessary Tibet travel permits
  • Sightseeing and monastery entry permit fees
  • Nepal visa fees
  • Tibet Group visa fees

Others

  • One local English-speaking guide
  • Pre-trip briefing session for your successful trip.
  • Service charge and documentation fees
  • Free luggage storage services in Kathmandu
  • Appreciation Certificate after the successful tour
  • Farewell dinner at the end of the tour
  • Travel insurance.
  • Rescue and evacuation service fees
  • Tips for staff and tour guides (it is expected)
  • Costs incurred due to causes beyond our control, such as weather conditions, landslides, itinerary modifications, illness, government policy changes, strikes, etc.
  • All other costs and expenses not listed in “including”

Permits and visa for this trip

Visa

This trip enters Tibet from Nepal, so you need a Chinese Group Visa, issued in Kathmandu.

A Chinese visa obtained in your own country cannot be used on a Nepal entry — the consulate in Kathmandu cancels it and issues the group visa instead. The group visa is a separate sheet naming everyone travelling, so the group enters and leaves Tibet together. Allow 35 working days in Kathmandu; it is normally granted for 2030 days.

Permits

Permits required for this itinerary, and how far ahead each is applied for
PermitRequired forApplied for
Tibet Travel Permit (TTP)every non-Chinese passport holder entering the Tibet Autonomous Region20 days ahead
Alien's Travel Permit (ATP)travel outside Lhasa, including Everest Base Camp and Mount Kailash20 days ahead
Border Defence Permitborder counties, including Everest Base Camp (Tingri), Mount Kailash (Pulan) and the Gyirong crossing20 days ahead

We apply for all of these on your behalf. The longest lead time is 20 days, so book by then at the latest and send us a passport scan as early as you can.

  • Tibet cannot be travelled independently — a licensed guide and a registered vehicle are part of every tour, including this one.
  • Permits cannot be applied for privately; they are issued to a licensed operator against a booked itinerary.
  • The permit names your route, vehicle and guide, so the itinerary cannot be changed once you are inside Tibet.

FAQs for Tibet Overland with Everest Base Camp

Tibet Overland with Everest Base Camp Information

Difficulty

Hard

Best Season

Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sept, Oct

Weighing It Against the Alternatives

If you are still deciding, this is how Tibet Overland with Everest Base Camp sits against the trips people most often weigh it against — on days, distance, difficulty and cost.

This trip compared with the alternatives
TripDays / DistanceDifficultyFrom
Tibet Overland with Everest Base Campthis trip8 daysHard$999
Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Tour8 daysHard$1,060
TIBET OVERLAND TOUR8 daysMedium$1,199
Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour via EBC7 daysHard$1,250
10 days Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Yatra10 days47 kmHard$1,870

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