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Pioneer of Tibet Tourism for Overseas Travelers since 1984!
For many years, travelling to Tibet had been a dream for my husband and me. We had always imagined its snow-capped mountains, sacred monasteries, and vast blue skies, but we also believed it would be difficult for foreigners to arrange the trip.
Last August, however, we finally turned that dream into reality – thanks to Tibet Vista – and we arrived in this astonishing land with our two children, aged nine and twelve.
Taking the train from Xining to Lhasa immediately became one of the highlights of our journey. We were lucky to secure a soft sleeper cabin for the four of us, which made the long ride comfortable and enjoyable.
The scenery outside the window changed from grasslands to lakes to rugged mountains, each more breathtaking than the last.
Watching the landscape slowly rise in altitude gave us the feeling of gradually entering another world. I would strongly recommend traveling to Tibet by train – it turns the journey itself into an adventure.
Let's start the epic overland journey from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp in Tibet!
8-Day Small Group Tour from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp: A Day-by-Day Review
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa
At Lhasa Railway Station, a friendly representative from Tibet Vista was already waiting for us. We were driven to our hotel, where we met our guide, Lhakdon. From the very beginning, she made a strong impression. Her English was excellent, and she showed deep knowledge of Tibetan culture, history, and Buddhism.
But what truly touched us was how attentive she was to our family’s needs, especially with our children. It was clear she had many years of guiding experience – she is truly a professional and a wonderful companion on the road.
Day 2: Drepung & Sera Monasteries
We began exploring Lhasa with visits to Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery. At Drepung, once the world’s largest monastery, we wandered through its courtyards and halls while listening to Lhakdon’s stories about monastic life.
In the afternoon, we witnessed the famous monk debates at Sera Monastery. The lively gestures, clapping, and energy surprised us – it was both educational and entertaining. This experience gave us a genuine glimpse into the intellectual traditions of Tibetan Buddhism.
Watched the monks debate at Sera Monastery.Day 3: Potala Palace, Barkhor Street & Jokhang Temple
The next day was dedicated to Lhasa’s most iconic landmarks. Visiting the Potala Palace was simply unforgettable. Although we had seen countless photos in books and magazines, nothing compared to standing in front of it and climbing the long series of steps to its upper floors. From the twelfth floor, the views of Lhasa and the surrounding mountains were magnificent.
After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, we continued to Barkhor Street, where pilgrims walk in a clockwise circle around Jokhang Temple. Inside the temple, the atmosphere was deeply spiritual — flickering butter lamps, the scent of incense, and the soft murmurs of prayers created a sense of peace.
Exploring Barkhor Street around Jokhang Temple with our children.Day 4: Lhasa to Shigatse via Yamdrok Lake
We left Lhasa early and drove westward. The road took us along Yamdrok Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes I have ever seen. Its deep turquoise waters sparkled under the sunlight like liquid sapphire.
We then continued to the Karola Glacier, a dramatic ice wall right beside the highway, and later visited the Gyantse Kumbum, an extraordinary multi-level stupa filled with ancient murals.
By evening, we arrived in Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city.
Yamdrok Lake’s turquoise waters were absolutely breathtaking on a sunny day.Day 5: Towards Everest – The 108 Switchbacks & Himalayan Views
The following morning, we entered Everest National Park. The road leading to Everest Base Camp in Tibet included the famous 108 switchbacks – an impressive drive that tested both our excitement and our nerves!
We stopped at a local Tibetan home for a traditional lunch, where we tasted homemade dishes and butter tea. The hospitality and warmth of the family made this one of the most memorable cultural experiences of the trip.
Later, at Gawula Pass, we were blessed with clear skies. From this high viewpoint, we could see five peaks over 8,000 metres. The panorama of the Himalayas stretching across the horizon took our breath away.
At the entrance to the Qomolangma National Nature Preserve.Day 6: Everest Base Camp & Rongbuk Monastery
Finally, we reached Everest Base Camp. Seeing Mount Everest up close — its snow-white summit piercing the sky – is a moment I will never forget.
The wind was icy and the air crisp, yet the silence was almost sacred. Spending the night near EBC was simple and basic, but manageable.
The next morning, watching the sunrise paint the Himalayas golden felt like witnessing the beginning of a new world.
Before leaving, we visited Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery on earth, which added even more meaning to our time at Everest.
We enjoyed hotpot at the restaurant in Rongbuk Monastery, located at Everest Base Camp.
We enjoyed hotpot at the restaurant in Rongbuk Monastery, located at Everest Base Camp.Day 7: Tashilhunpo Monastery & Return to Lhasa
The following day, we visited Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse. Lhakdon explained that it is an important spiritual home for the Tibetan people and houses the world’s largest statue of Maitreya Buddha.We spent a bit of time shopping for souvenirs before returning to Lhasa.
We arrived in the evening and made one last visit to the Potala Palace, hoping to catch it lit up at night.We were able to admire the illuminate night view of the Potala palace once more from our hotel window.
On our final night in Lhasa, we took in the stunning night view of the Potala Palace before heading home.Day 8: Depart from Lhasa
On the final day, we head home, carrying with us unforgettable memories of our incredible journey through Tibet.
Reflections
There were countless moments that touched us deeply – the devotion of pilgrims at the Potala Palace, the shimmering waters of Yamdrok Lake, the ancient murals of Tashilhunpo, and of course, the awe-inspiring presence of Everest. Standing before the highest mountain on Earth humbled us, reminding us of nature’s power and beauty.
In the end, traveling through Tibet became one of the most meaningful and unforgettable parts of our entire overland journey. Tibet is not just a destination – it is an experience. Our 8 days overland journey from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp with Tibet Vista were filled with beauty, discovery, warmth, and a deeper appreciation of Tibetan culture. We left with memories that will stay with us forever and hearts forever touched by the “Roof of the World.”
From Tibet Vista’s excellent support to the incredible scenery, rich culture, and unexpected friendships – we have only gratitude. If you are considering a trip to this extraordinary region, we highly recommend reaching out to them.
Visited the Karola Glacier on the way to Shigatse.
It was an interesting experience taking photos with a decorated Tibetan yak by the side of Yamdrok Lake.
Let's start the epic overland journey from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp in Tibet!
"A Dream Come True: From the Scenic Tibet Train to Everest with My Family"