11 Days Tibet Train Tour from Shanghai with Everest Base Camp & Namtso Lake

On this day, your train journey from Shanghai to Tibet begins. Our local team will meet you at your hotel and escort you to the Shanghai Railway Station. You will board the Train Z164 to Lhasa, departing at 20:02. This legendary journey covers 4,373 kilometers (2,719 miles) across 15 provinces, eventually traversing the world’s highest railway - the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. You will spend approximately 46 hours and 44 minutes on this scenic route, arriving at Lhasa Railway Station at 18:46, two days later.

Important Note: Please ensure you have your Tibet Travel Permit ready, as it will be checked upon boarding.

Today, your journey transitions from the lush plains of Eastern China toward the rugged beauty of the Northwest. Watch the landscape transform outside your window as the scenery shifts from fertile valleys to towering mountains, vast grasslands, and shimmering lakes.

Your train carriage is a vibrant cross-section of Chinese life. Use this time to chat with fellow travelers from across the country. It is a fantastic, authentic way to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of this ancient land while you travel.

Altitude: 3,650m

Today, you will traverse the most spectacular section of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, from Golmud to Lhasa. Secure a window seat to witness the dramatic transformation of the landscape: snow-capped Himalayan peaks, shimmering alpine lakes, and vast plains dotted with yaks and nomadic tents. Keep your camera ready for wildlife, including Tibetan antelope, foxes, and wild asses roaming the high-altitude wilderness.

At 18:46, you will arrive at Lhasa Railway Station. Tashi Delek! Welcome to the heart of the Tibetan plateau. Your local guide and driver will meet you at the exit and escort you to your hotel in downtown Lhasa. We recommend resting immediately to help your body acclimatize to the 3,650-meter altitude, ensuring you are refreshed for your upcoming exploration.

Essential Travel Tips for Acclimatization:

1. Take It Easy: Avoid strenuous activity for the first 48 hours. Focus on resting, staying warm, and drinking plenty of water.
2. Personal Care: It is best to avoid showering during your first night to prevent catching a cold.
3. Listen to Your Body: Follow your doctor’s advice regarding altitude medication. Should you feel unwell at any time, inform your guide or hotel staff immediately; they are highly experienced in managing altitude-related concerns.

Altitude: 3,650m

Today, you will explore the soul of Lhasa. We begin at the Jokhang Temple, followed by the spirited monk debates at Sera Monastery, and conclude with a walk along the historic Barkhor Street.

Jokhang Temple

Standing in the heart of Lhasa for over 1,300 years, the Jokhang Temple is Tibet’s most sacred pilgrimage site. Built by King Songtsen Gampo for his brides, Princess Wencheng and Princess Bhrikuti, it houses the revered life-size statue of the 12-year-old Sakyamuni. Admire the masterpiece of Tibetan architecture, from intricate carvings to vibrant murals. You will feel the profound devotion as pilgrims pray day and night.

Sera Monastery

In the afternoon, we visit Sera Monastery, one of the "Great Three" Gelug university monasteries. The highlight is witnessing the monks' debate (usually 15:00–17:00, except Sundays). Watch as monks use rhythmic hand-clapping and stomping to debate Buddhist doctrines - a fascinating tradition meant to sharpen wisdom. You will also explore meditation halls and gain deep insight into the daily life of Tibetan monks.

Barkhor Street

We conclude the day on Barkhor Street, the ancient kora (pilgrim circuit) surrounding the Jokhang Temple. Today, it is a bustling local market. It is the perfect place to sip traditional yak butter tea, try on Tibetan attire for photos, and browse for unique Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian handicrafts.

After the tour, be escorted back to your hotel in Lhasa.

Altitude: 3,650m

Today, we explore the architectural and spiritual pinnacles of Tibet: the world-famous Potala Palace and the sprawling Drepung Monastery.

Potala Palace

We begin at the Potala Palace, the winter residence of the Dalai Lama from 1649 to 1959. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. You will ascend 365 steps to reach the Red Palace, standing at an altitude of 3,700m. Inside, you will be moved by the intricate murals, jeweled shrines, and the profound devotion of pilgrims who travel from across the plateau to pray here. Your guide will share the history of King Songtsen Gampo, who first built this palace in the 7th century for Princess Wencheng.

Drepung Monastery

In the afternoon, we drive 12km to Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in Tibet and the former residence of the Dalai Lama before the Potala was expanded. This massive complex is famous for the annual Shoton Festival, where a giant Thangka is unveiled. Beyond its stunning architecture, you will witness monks engaged in spirited debates—a vibrant display of Buddhist scholarship.

Tibetan Culture Experience

After exploring the monastery, enjoy 2-hour immersive cultural session. You will learn the traditional arts of Tibetan incense-making and woodblock printing, offering a hands-on connection to our ancient heritage.

After the tour, be transferred back to your hotel in Lhasa.

Altitude: 3,850m | Distance: ~380km (approx. 7–8 hours drive)

Today, we journey from Lhasa to Shigatse, traversing some of Tibet’s most spectacular landscapes. Prepare for a day of breathtaking vistas as we cross high mountain passes and visit two natural wonders: Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier.

Yamdrok Lake

After a 3-hour drive, we reach the Kampala Pass (4,797m). From here, enjoy a panoramic view of Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s four great sacred lakes. Its turquoise waters shimmer against the backdrop of the holy Mt. Nyenchen Khangsar. This lake is deeply spiritual, believed to help locate the reincarnated soul of the Dalai Lama. You will see local nomads with adorned Tibetan mastiffs and yaks; if you wish to take photos with them, please agree on a small fee (5–10 yuan) beforehand.

Karola Glacier

In the afternoon, we continue to the stunning Karola Glacier (5,012m). This massive glacier, famously featured in the movie Red River Valley, hangs above the road like a frozen waterfall. It is the source of the Nianchu River and sits beneath the towering Mt. Kalurong. You can easily walk to the foot of the glacier for incredible photos.

Arrival in Shigatse

We conclude the day with a drive to Shigatse, the gateway to the Friendship Highway and our base for tomorrow’s adventure. Enjoy a restful evening in your hotel as you prepare for your journey to Mount Everest Base Camp.

Altitude: 5,100m | Distance: ~340km (approx. 7 hours drive)

Today, we journey from Shigatse toward the peak of the world: Mount Everest. This drive takes us through the heart of the Himalayas, culminating in an unforgettable night at Everest Base Camp (EBC).

Gyawu La Pass

After a 4.5-hour drive, we reach the iconic Gyawu La Pass (5,200m). Prepare for a breathtaking panoramic view of the world’s highest peaks, including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The winding road ahead is a marvel of engineering, often traveled by dedicated cyclists and hikers on a spiritual pilgrimage to the base of the world's tallest mountain. Take your time here to soak in the snow-capped ranges, endless grasslands, and vibrant blue skies.

Rongbuk Monastery

We then continue to Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest monastery (5,154m). This is a vital stop for spiritual travelers and photographers alike. Beyond the stunning views of Mount Everest, you can explore the ancient hermitage caves dotting the valley cliffs—some with histories spanning over 400 years. The atmosphere is profoundly moving, filled with large white chortens, mani stones, and prayer flags fluttering in the wind.

Evening at EBC

This evening, we settle in near the base camp. We will enjoy a group dinner featuring a warming Hot Pot—the perfect way to relax after a long day of travel.

Altitude: 3,850m | Distance: ~340km (approx. 7 hours drive)

Wake up early to witness the sunrise over Mt. Everest. Watching the first golden rays of light touch the world’s highest peak is a transformative experience. Take a short walk to a nearby vantage point to capture the moment as the mountain glows against the morning sky.

The Journey Back

After breakfast, we begin our return journey toward Shigatse. We will make a photo stop at the Gyatso La Pass (5,248m), which offers expansive views of the Himalayan landscape. This high-altitude pass marks an important point on the Friendship Highway as we descend from the roof of the world.

Return to Shigatse

We will arrive in Shigatse in the late afternoon. After the rugged conditions of the past two days, enjoy a hot shower and a comfortable night at your hotel. You will have plenty of time to rest and prepare for your departure the following day.

Altitude: 3,850m–4,200m | Distance: ~325km–340km

We begin the day by exploring the historic Tashilunpo Monastery, followed by a drive toward either Damxung or Lhasa, depending on your preference for comfort or travel efficiency.

Tashilunpo Monastery

Founded in 1447 by the 1st Dalai Lama, Tashilunpo Monastery is the largest monastery in the Tsang region and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lamas. As you walk through this sacred complex, you will visit the ancient tombs of the 4th and 10th Panchen Lamas and admire the intricate murals and golden roofs. We recommend hiking to the top of the monastery grounds for a stunning bird’s-eye view of Shigatse City. You may also join local pilgrims on their kora (circumambulation) to truly experience the spiritual rhythm of the monastery.

After our visit, we head toward your evening accommodation. You have two options:

1. Option A (Damxung): A shorter drive (approx. 5.5 hours). This saves time for tomorrow’s itinerary but offers only basic, local-standard hotel accommodations.
2. Option B (Lhasa): A longer drive (approx. 8 hours). This is the recommended choice if you prefer modern hotel amenities and a wider range of dining options.

Altitude: 4,700m | Distance: ~320km (approx. 5.5 hours total drive)

Today, we journey to the "Heavenly Lake," Namtso Lake (4,700m). We depart from either Damxung (1.5 hours) or Lhasa (4 hours) to experience one of the most sacred landscapes in Tibet.

Namtso Lake

Namtso Lake is one of Tibet’s three holiest lakes, believed to be the residence of a Tibetan goddess. Surrounded by the snow-capped Nyenchen Thanglha Mountains, the lake is a masterpiece of nature. Its waters shift in color from deep blue to turquoise throughout the day, creating perfect opportunities for photography. You can explore Tashi Dor Island, hike the shoreline, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere where pilgrims come to meditate and pray.

(Note: Namtso Lake may occasionally close in winter due to heavy snow.)

The Return Journey

In the afternoon, we head back toward Lhasa. Along the way, we pass through the Grassland in Northern Tibet, a vast landscape of rolling hills and crystal-clear rivers. You will see traditional nomadic families herding yaks and sheep near their black yak-hair tents. We will also catch a distant view of Yampachen, a high-altitude town famous for its natural hot springs. We arrive back in Lhasa by evening, marking the end of our grand plateau adventure.

Altitude: 3,650m | Distance: ~60–100km (Transfer to airport/train station)

Your 11-day journey through the heart of the Himalayas concludes today. Enjoy some final free time in Lhasa to explore the local markets or enjoy a quiet morning tea before your departure. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and provide a private transfer to the Lhasa Gonggar Airport or the Lhasa Railway Station for your flight or high-speed train to your next destination.

Extend Your Journey

If you aren't ready to leave the plateau, we can easily extend your trip. Explore the spiritual wonders of Mount Kailash or the ancient ruins of the Guge Kingdom. Let us know your travel goals, and we will handle the arrangements.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Tibetan adventure. It has been our privilege to share the beauty of our home with you. We hope to see you again soon for your next journey through Asia. Safe travels!