12 Days Classic Tibet Adventure Tour with Old Tingri to EBC Trek

Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region! Upon your arrival at the airport in Lhasa, the tour guide and driver will meet you at the exit, and then escort you to the hotel in downtown Lhasa (100km, about 1.5 hours’ drive) . You can have a good rest to get used to the altitude (3,650m) in your hotel and get ready to explore Lhasa with your guide the next day.

Arrival Ideas:
Lhasa is located in the southern part of the Tibetan Plateau and southwestern China. Traveling to Tibet is convenient by air, railway, or road. There are five airports in Tibet, with Lhasa Gonggar Airport being the most popular for flights from Chengdu (which is also popular), Chongqing, Xian, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Kunming, Xining, Shangri-La, and other cities. One international airline even connects Lhasa and Kathmandu. Moreover, travelers can take the train to Lhasa from Xining (21 hours, the starting point of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway), Lanzhou (24.5 hours), Chongqing (35.5 hours), Chengdu (36.5 hours), Xian (31 hours), Beijing (40.5 hours), Shanghai (47 hours), Guangzhou (52.5 hours), Shigatse (2.5 hours), Nyingzhi (4 hours), and other cities.

Kind Reminds:
1.It is good to avoid altitude sickness by slowing down, keeping warm, drinking water frequently, avoiding showers for the first one or two days, taking it easy, and sleeping well.
2.You should always follow your doctor's advice regarding altitude based on your health condition.
3.Be sure to let your guide or the hotel staff know whenever you feel unwell or need help. The people there are always willing to help and are good at dealing with altitude sickness.

Notes for Trekking:
During your initial days in Lhasa and Shigatse of Tibet, it is important to take it easy and dedicate ample time to acclimate to the elevated altitude. This is a crucial step in preparing yourself for the trek ahead.

Today, you and your group will explore Lhasa by visiting Jokhang Temple, a world cultural heritage site renowned for its brilliant architecture, culture, art, and history. After that, you will experience Tibetan Buddhism by witnessing the Monks' Debating in Sera Monastery. Finally, you can stroll through the famous Barkhor Street with locals and learn more about the daily kora life of Tibetans.

Located in the heart of Lhasa for over 1300 years, the Jokhang Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over the world. Famed as the spiritual center of Tibet, it is said that the Jokhang Monastery was built for King Songtsen Gampo's two brides: Chinese Princess Wencheng and Nepalese Princess Bhrikuti. "Jokhang" means "House of Buddha", and it houses a life-size statue of the 12-year-old Sakyamuni, which is considered a treasure of the Buddhist world. This is why Buddhist pilgrims consider it the holiest destination. The Jakhong temple is also renowned for its beautiful architecture. You can admire the intricate carvings, colorful murals, ornate decorations, and details of the building, which is a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. Time seems to stand still as you watch people pray in front of the temple during the day and night. (Please note that the visit order may be adjusted based on the reservation of your Jokhang Temple Ticket Reservation.)

In the afternoon, drive approximately 30km (50 minutes) to visit Sera Monastery, which is one of the three great Gelug university monasteries of Tibet. It offers the opportunity to experience Tibetan Buddhism up close. The highlight of Sera Monastery is watching the monks' debate, which takes place around 15:00-17:00 (except on Sundays). The debate is an interesting form of exchange, where one monk acts as the questioner, standing while the answerer or group of answerers sit. The standing monk asks questions and slaps his palms and stomps, each action having a special meaning, such as activating wisdom, and are not meant to be aggressive. You will also have the chance to attend prayer ceremonies, visit meditation halls, and learn about the monastic way of life. It is a must-visit destination to gain insight into the beliefs and practices of Tibetan Buddhism.

Afterward, head back to downtown Lhasa for a walk on busy Barkhor Street near the Jokhang Monastery, which was a place for Buddhists to do a kora (pilgrim circuit) in ancient times. Nowadays, it has become a thriving local market where you can drink a pot of yak butter tea, dress in Tibetan clothes for photos, and pick up some local Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian handicrafts and souvenirs.

Today you will explore the world’s highest palace for its brilliant architectures, culture, and history, then visits to one of the "great three" Gelug university monasteries in Tibet - the Drepung Monastery.

In the morning, you can walk into Potala Palace (World Heritage), the traditional residence and winter palace of the Dalai Lama (1649-1959). It takes 365 steps from potala gate to reach the Red Palace which is the highest palace in the world at an altitude of 3,700m. Through the principal halls, chapels, and shrines of past Dalai Lamas in the Red Palace, you will be astonished and touched by its remarkable paintings, gorgeous jeweled works, skilled carving, colorful ornamentation, and the mystery stories behind the treasures. Inside the Potala Palace you will meet lots of Tibetan pilgrims who come all the way from afar to this sacred site to pray as their life time destination. You can also ask your guide to share more information about Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd king of Tibet, who first build the Potala Palace in the 7th century for his marriage to Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty. (Note: We may adjust the visit order due to the visiting time of your Potala Palace Ticket. All visitors must visit the Potala Palace with a tour group while staying inside for an hour. No photo inside.)

Then, drive about 35 minutes (12km) to visit the Drepung Monastery, which was the largest Tibetan monastery (of the Gelug Sect) in Lhasa. It used to be the palace of the Dalai Lama before he moved to the Potala Palace in the 17th century. Today, it is famous for the Drepung Shoton Festival held each August, where people come to offer yogurt to the monks who have finished their 100 days of meditation. You can also witness the grandest Buddha/Thangka Unfolding Ceremony. Besides the unique architecture and amazing buildings, you can watch monks debating in Tibetan Buddhism, which is vibrant and active with expansive gestures, clapping, and stamping. After visiting the Drepung Temple, you will have about a 2-hour Tibetan culture tour, which includes an introduction, Tibetan incense making, and block printing.

On this day, drive about 6 hours (270km) from Lhasa to Gyantse (3,950m) via a visit to two amazing natural landscapes - Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier on the way.

In the morning, you will head to the Kampala Pass (4,797 meters) and have a breathtaking view of Yamdrok Lake (a freshwater lake) down below as well as spectacular views of the holy Mt. Nyenchen Khangsar (7,206m) in the distance. It is one of the four largest sacred lakes in Tibet along with Lake Lhamo Latso, Lake Manasarovar, and Lake Namtso. And Lake Yamdrok is said to be able to help Tibetans find the reincarnated soul of the Dalai Lama. You will be happy to see dressed-up Tibetan mastiffs/dogs, goats, and yaks there. It is optional for you to pay 5-10 yuan to pose with and take photos of them, for local Tibetans, it’s a subsidy income for their family.

Then, drive to visit one of the most beautiful Glaciers in Tibet - Karola Glacier, the location of the film Red Valley (Hong He Gu). As one of Tibet's three major continental glaciers, backed by the southern slope of Naiqin Kangsang Peak (7,191 meters), one of the four highest peaks in Tibet, this white glacier is also the source of the eastern part of the Nianchu River. The Karola Glacier (5,012m) is only 300 meters away from the highway connecting Lhasa to Gyantse town. You can view it right off the highway from your car. Sure you can easily walk to the foot of the charming glacier which shape is like a frozen waterfall right above the road and you. Besides the fantastic hike to the Karola Glacier, on the opposite side of the road, you can appreciate the beautiful snow-capped mountain of Mt Kalurong.

Karola Glacier Visiting Notes:
1. The altitude at the glacier scenic spot is about 5,012m, be sure to slow down to avoid altitude sickness.
2. The public toilet at the glacier is very basic.
3. Local people would ask you to take photos with them for a fee. Be sure to ask before taking photos to avoid potential little troubles.

After that, drive on the Friendship Highway( between Tibet and Nepal) to Gyantse, the third largest city of Tibet after Lhasa and Shigates, and visit Pelkor Monastery.

Pelkor Monastery (Palcho Monastery) is an important site for Tibetan Buddhism, as it houses different sects including the Gelug, Sakyapa, and Kadampa. Pelkor Monastery, with a history over 600 years, is also renowned for its impressive architecture, which blends Tibetan, Nepalese, and Han Chinese styles. One of the main attractions of Pelkor Monastery is the Kumbum Stupa (Gyangtse Kumpum), which is a nine-story tower adorned with thousands of images of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. It is said to be the largest such structure in Tibet. Visitors can enjoy their time by witnessing the daily rituals and prayers of the monks, and have a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape from the top of the Kumbum Stupa (100-Thousand-Buddha Pagoda). You can also catch the far view of Gyangtse Fortress (Gyantse Dzong).

This morning, drive to Shigatse which is 90km (2h) from Gyangtse and visit Tashilunpo Monastery. Then go on along Friendship Highway to Old Tingri (300km, 6h) via Lhatse and Shegar (New Tingri).

Tashilunpo Monastery is founded by His Holiness the 1st Dalai Lama, Gyalwa Gedun Drup in 1447. In Tashi Lunpo Monastery, you can unveil the traditional seat of successive Panchen Lamas, Tibet's second-highest incarnation. Pay a visit to the ancient tombs of the fourth and tenth Panchen Lama and the chortens, which hold the bones and remains of the sacred Tibetan lamas. Learn more from your guide about Panchen Lamas and Dalai Lamas while appreciating the brilliant religious painting on Tibetan architecture, listening to the Tibetan Buddhism chanting by local monks, and even participating in the kora like locals. Don’t forget to hike up to the top of the monastery and have a stunning bird view of the monastery itself and Shigatse City.

After that, drive to Old Tingri (Gangga Town) on well paved road, your guide will do the double check for the preparations for your trek, while you may have a good view of Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201m). Have a good rest for the trekking the next day. (Note: There is no chance to shower for the next 4 days.)

Notes for Old Tingri to EBC Trek:
1. The classic trek from Old Tingri to Everest Base Camp is suitable for almost all people, including underage children, without severe altitude sickness. The roads along the way are rural, and the trekking route is relatively open, flat, and safe.
2. Although the Old Tingri to EBC Trek is not difficult, typically taking four days to cover 70km at a average pace of 18km per day, weather and climate are important factors that can affect the difficulty of trekking and the scenery along the way.
3. The best seasons to trek to Everest Base Camp of Tibet are April, May, June, September, and October, as they have better weather with less rain and minimal impact from clouds and fog. It is best to avoid the rainy season in Tibet, which runs from the end of June to the end of August.
4. When trekking in Tibet, it is essential to stay within sight of your tour guide as getting lost in the wilderness can be dangerous, especially in remote areas with altitudes ranging between 4,300m and 5,300m.
5. Ordinary trekking equipment is sufficient for this trek, with trekking shoes being the most important, and other warm clothing being configured according to your needs.

Camping Altitude: 4,510m | Distance: 12km | Duration: 5 hours’ trekking

The first day of trekking will take about 5 hours to cover 12km and reach Lungchang (Longjiang Village), a small village at an altitude of 4,510m.

Departing from Old Tingri (Gangga Town), our 4-day Old Tingri to EBC trek begins. Following the trails off the Friendship Highway, you will trek on the Tingri Plain and the Ra-Chu valley through several villages. With the rolling mountains in the distance, you will love the sights of beautiful grasslands while meeting the sheep and yaks wandering freely there. You can see the Rachu River flowing on your right-hand side and appreciate the traditional houses of Tibetan villages along the way. You will learn that the attached yak pats on the outside of every house wall are the very important fuel used for burning and cooking by locals. If you are lucky enough, you may have the chance to see wild animals such as Kiang, blue sheep, and vultures.

As you make your way south towards Mt. Cho Oyu, you can pay a visit to a small monastery in Cholung (Cholung Gompa). After that, it's time to camp on the meadows near Lungchung (Longjiang Village), which is home to Tibetan herders and highland barley harvesters. Have a good rest tonight and prepare for a challenging day ahead.

Camping Altitude: 5,150m | Distance: 21km | Duration: 8 hours’ trekking

The second day of trekking will take about 8 hours to cover 21km and reach Nam-la, at an altitude of 5,150m. The trek today will be a little challenging as you will climb up to Nam-La Pass (5,150m).

After breakfast at the camp, it's time to start the uphill trek. Today's trek is harder than yesterday, but the higher you go, the better views you will get. You will be rewarded with stunning views of the valley and the snow-capped Himalayan Range. Have fun meeting lonely nomad families and exploring their Tibetan nomadic black tents, as well as watching herds of yaks and sheep grazing in the narrow valley. The local people there sustain themselves by exchanging needed items with their butter, milk, and meats.

As the road ascends towards Nam La through a rocky gully, the terrain becomes dotted with round humps of cushion plants and little-known flowers that are able to survive in harsh environments. Don't forget to search for wild animals hiding in the distance. Once you reach the Nam La Pass (5,150m), you can see the road leading to the Everest Base Camp. Camping near the Nam La Pass for the night.

Camping Altitude: 4,790m | Distance: 22km | Duration: 8 hours’ trek

The third day of trekking will take about 8 hours to cover 22km and reach Zommug at an altitude of 4,790m.

After enjoying a cup of morning tea or coffee, you will descend steeply into lush vegetation. Today's trek is easier than yesterday, allowing us to meet more yak herders and their families, the only other people we will encounter along the way. On this side of the pass, although crops cannot survive at this elevation, the vegetation is lusher and can support more yaks and sheep. Besides, you will be treated to breathtaking views of Mt. Everest and Gyachung Kang on the way.

Next, you will meet some yak herders and their families in Zommug, which is the highest permanent settlement in the Everest region. You can say hi to the friendly Tibetan nomads and even help them with herding. They will be happy to answer any questions about their life. If the weather permits, you can enjoy amazing sunsets in this barren town. We will be camping at Zommug for the night.

Overnight Altitude: 5,100m | Distance: 15km | Duration: 6 hours’ trek

The fourth/last day of trekking will take about 6 hours to cover 15km and reach Rongbuk Monastery (5,100m) and Everest Base Camp (5,200m).

Today, you will be passing along a rocky road, winding your way from Draka Chu River to Rongbuk Monastery and Everest Base Camp (EBC), with a visit to the Dza Rongbuk Gompas along the way. The Dza Rongbuk Gompa is located 2 kilometers above the Rongbuk monastery and was introduced to the world in the 1920s through the accounts of the first British mountaineering teams.

Next, you will head to Rongbuk Monastery, which is the highest monastery in the world and the best site to view the north side of Mt. Qomolangma (Mt. Everest), also known as the Third Pole on Earth. With both monks and nuns in residence, Rongbuk Monastery is a must-visit for spiritual travelers, and you will find it to be a photo-worthy destination. It used to be an area of meditation huts, and you can find hermitage meditation caves with a history of over 400 years, dotting the cliff walls all around the monastery and the valley. You can admire the magnificent sunset on Qomolangma's steep north side in good weather. The humble stupa at the monastery is the same one that can be seen on most postcards and posters of Mt. Everest.

Then take a sightseeing bus to Rongbuk Monastery and Everest Base Camp (5,200m), which is the closest place for ordinary tourists to view the world’s summit. Overnight in a tent guesthouse at EBC. If you venture out at night, you will be rewarded with a heavenly starry night at EBC.

Try your luck to witness the great sunrise of Mount Everest in the early morning (Note: Sunrise usually starts around 6:30 am to 7am). After breakfast at EBC, it's time to ride from Rongbuk to Sakya via Shergar (New Tingri) and Lhatse by the Friendship Highway (240km, 6h). It is optional to enjoy the Xiqian Hot Spring near Lhatse.

You will first stop at the Gyawu La Pass (5,200m) for another glimpse of Mount Everest. When the weather is clear, you can see four mountains which are above 8,000m (Makalu, Lhotse, Everest, and Cho-Oyu). Apart from Mount Everest, you will be amazed by the zigzag road that looks winding to the end of the world. Overnight in Sakya.

Travel Note：
1. It is optional for a drive from EBC/Rongbuk to Nyalam on day 10, then on day 11, you can head to Kathmandu, Nepal.
2. If you don’t have the time to do the 4-day trek, you can just hike around Rongbuk Monastery and Mount Everest Base Camp. It is optional for a drive from EBC/Rongbuk to Gyirong on day 6, then on day 7, you can head to Kathmandu, Nepal. Contact us to customize a shorter trip from New Tingri to Everest Base Camp.
3. When we talk about Everest Base Camp (EBC), we are referring to the area near Rongbuk Monastery that ordinary travelers are allowed to visit. EBC is about 20km from Mount Everest’s summit as the crow flies. From EBC, travelers can view the summit of Mount Everest in fine weather.

After a morning visit to the famous Sakya Monastery, drive back to Lhasa (420km, 7h). Overnight in Lhasa.

Sakya Monastery (4,280m) is the seat of the Sakya sect of Tibetan Buddhism, one of the four main Buddhist schools in Tibet. The monastery was founded in 1073 by Konchok Gyalpo, who was a disciple of the famous Indian Buddhist teacher Atisha. The outside walls of the monastery are painted with red, white, and gray, symbolizing Avalokitesvara, Manjushri, and Vajrapani. Another noteworthy feature of Sakya Monastery is its extensive library, which contains a vast collection of Buddhist scriptures, commentaries, and other texts. The library is considered to be one of the largest and most important Buddhist libraries in the world. It is said that the largest book in the world is in Sakya's great library, written in gold. Then, heading back to Lhasa and view the Yarlung Zangbo River (Yarlung Tsangpo River) along the way.

It is time to end your 12-day Tibet Trekking Tour. Your guide will escorts you to the airport/train station for your flight or high speed train to your next destination.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Tibet tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Safe journey!