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Pioneer of Tibet Tourism for Overseas Travelers since 1984!
Going to Tibet had been a long-held dream of mine because Tibet has not only history of Tibetan Culture includes historic temples but also majestic mountains and lakes, which harmonize to create a sublime world where faith and nature are connected.
I decided to join the “Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour” in March to enjoy comfortable spring season.
Join our 7 days Lhasa to Kathmandu tour to admire the Mount Everest from both sides.
My Qinghai-Tibet Railway Journey: From Shanghai to Lhasa by Train Experience
I had two options to go to Tibet from Japan, plane or train, and I chose the train from Shanghai to Tibet to enjoy the scenery (it takes approximately two days).
But actually, it was very difficult to get the train ticket(especially first class) because of high demand so I bought it as soon as sales started. The first-class sleeper compartment was a four-person room, and I shared it with three young Chinese women.
Most of the passengers were Chinese, so I used a translation app to communicate with them. I was mostly eating instant ramen which I brought from Japan and also some kind passengers gave me fruits and snacks.
The Qinghai-Tibet Railway is the highest-altitude railway in the world, with parts of its entire route passing over 4,000 meters above sea level. I was a bit afraid of altitude sickness because I’ve never experienced over 3,000 meters in my life but I only had a slight headache.
Every train car is equipped with an oxygen supply system just in case. What I disliked on this train journey was that the toilets were unsanitary. Since there's no shower, body wipes and disinfectant wipes are essential. Having disposable slippers is also convenient, as you won't have to wear shoes every time.
Taking the world’s highest train from Shanghai to Lhasa to enjoy the views.My First Impressions of Lhasa: Hotel Stay, Cultural Experiences, and Tibetan Monasteries
After arriving at the hotel in Lhasa, I was really impressed with the quality of the hotel. It was a four-star hotel, and the room was wonderful, the breakfast was satisfying so I had a very comfortable stay there for three days.
The hotel I stayed in Lhasa, a comfortable stay for three days in the city of sunlight.Our tour guide, Tintin was very professional,knowledgeable and super kind. He gave me a detailed schedule for the day every morning, which made me feel at ease. He speaks English very fluently and I was impressed by his knowledge of everything about Tibet.
It goes without saying that the beauty of the Potala Palace, the most memorable experience during Lhasa tour for me was seeing the Tibetan Monks Debate in Sera Monastery. While learning about Tibetan culture, I also strongly felt that this scenery could only be seen here.
Group photo in front of the Potala Palace, the most iconic landmark of Tibet.And also I enjoyed the cultural experience classes to discover the traditions of Tibet in a deeper way. Especially,the experience of writing own name in Tibetan script was very unique. My interest in Tibetan Buddhism and culture has deepened by these experiences.
The welcome dinner and Tibetan music show was not only a good time but also a great opportunity to get to know the other tour members better.
Monks in red robes are engaging in the lively debates at Sera monastery.Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Journey: Scenic Drive, Stay, and First Everest Views
The journey from Lhasa to Everest base camp was a continuous series of incredibly beautiful views. Even during long drives, I didn't sleep and I kept gazing at the scenery outside the window. Our driver's driving skills were excellent. We frequently overtook trucks and other vehicles on mountain roads, but I never felt scared. However, the ride is very bumpy,so I recommend holding onto something at all times.
On the day we were scheduled to arrive on Everest base camp, we heard that the accommodations at the base camp had opened recently. Thanks to our guide's explanation and suggestion, we changed our plans and stayed there instead.
Group photo at Everest base camp, framed by the close-up view of the world’s highest peak.I assumed the accommodations there to be like a guesthouse but they were very clean and had private rooms, so it was very comfortable stay. There was no shower but it’s better to avoid shower when you’re at high altitude place. I visited on the end of March but it was still very cold (around minus 10 degrees at night) and snowed heavily, so warm clothing is essential.
-Click here to see more details about accommodations at EBC
The base camp is also at an altitude of over 5000 meters, so it’s better to walk slowly when going outside. Thanks to staying at the base camp,we were able to see Mt.Everest for two days. Sadly,we couldn’t see the sunset on the first day but the weather was better on the second day and we could see the top of Mt.Everest clearly, so staying overnight was definitely the right decision.
On the way from Lhasa to Mount Everest, there are lots of colorful Tibetan praying flags.A Memorable Tibet Journey: Hotels, International Group, and Unforgettable Experience
The hotels we stayed in Shigatse and Gyirong were also amazing so it was very easy to get rid of the fatigue. I spent a lot of money for this whole Tibet trip, but the satisfaction I got was by far more.
The group I traveled with was a multinational group, coming from Italy, Thailand, India, Australia, New Zealand and US. By the last day, we became good friends who can say to each other, "We want to travel together again with the same tour guides in the near future."
I am very grateful to our Tibetan tour guide and driver for a well organized and safe trip. Travelling in Tibet with this amazing member is a memory I'll cherish forever.
Join our 7 days Lhasa to Kathmandu tour to admire the Mount Everest from both sides.
In Lhasa, we visited Tibet Vista’s cultural center to experience activities like Tibetan calligrapher.
The stunning view of Yamdrok lake, one of the three holy lakes in Tibet.
"My Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Experience: Tibet Train, Everest Base Camp & Cultural Journey"