Where is Tibet situated?

Bordered by Nepal, India, Bhutan, and Burma, Tibet is a territory in the southwest of China. Given its historical territory, Tibet would rank as the tenth-largest nation in the world. China has divided, renamed, and combined the captured territory of Tibet into Chinese provinces. When China refers to "Tibet," it simply means the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), a small portion of historical Tibet.

Which time zone does Tibet fall under?

The time zone for the entire state of China is determined from Beijing, which is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), despite having a large geographic area. As a result, GMT and Tibetan time are also 8 hours apart. Tibet is also 2 hours and 15 minutes earlier than Nepalese standard time and 2 hours and 30 minutes earlier than Indian standard time.

What is Tibet known for?

Tibet has a reputation as the "Roof of the World." Several of the top ten tallest mountains in the world are located in Tibet. A handful of Asia's major rivers originate in the Tibetan plateau, which is also the highest plateau in the globe. Tibet is a well-known destination for Buddhist pilgrimage tours to some of the most prominent monasteries in the world. Tibet is also known as the home of the Dalai Lama. With its vast grasslands, tall mountains, and alpine lakes, Tibet is surely a magnificent destination for tourists, pilgrims, climbers, trekkers, and adventure travelers.

When is the ideal time to take the Tibet Everest Base Camp Tour?

The optimal time to travel should always depend on your availability. The weather is just a physical aspect that influences when the time is ideal. Since the monsoon in Tibet is less intense than that in Nepal, the best time to visit is from spring through fall. Generally speaking, the spring and fall seasons are best for traveling to Nepal. A full day of driving through Nepal's challenging, hilly, and landslide-prone terrain will be required of you while on the Tibet EBC Tour. So, spring and autumn are the best times to go for a vacation that covers both Nepal and Tibet.

Can I go to Tibet by myself?

Unfortunately, due to China's highly strict tourism laws for the area, you cannot visit Tibet alone or obtain a visa on your own. All the necessary documentation, including the entry permission and visa, will be handled by an authorized travel agency, like Outfitter Nepal. Even walking around on your own is not allowed. You must go with a licensed Tibetan guide, who your tour company will offer.

Is there a minimum age requirement to visit Tibet?

A Tibet Travel Permit can currently be obtained by anyone, regardless of age. Anyone can travel to Tibet, including young children with a guardian and older adults. A trip to Tibet with children and older family members can be a fantastic family vacation.

Is insurance required for this trip to Tibet EBC?

Outfitter Nepal strongly advises anyone considering visiting the Himalayas to purchase travel insurance. This insurance will protect you in the event of a medical emergency, evacuation, theft, loss of personal goods, or last-minute tour or ticket cancellations. By taking this precaution, you can guarantee a fun and safe journey.

What kind of attire do you suggest taking for a vacation to Tibet?

A T-shirt and cotton shorts—either long or short-sleeved—might be necessary during the daytime. Travelers are encouraged to pack comfortable, layered outfits. A lightweight, warm jacket is also advised. You'll benefit from having sunglasses, lip balm, thermal underwear, warm cotton pants, woolen clothing, caps, gloves, sandals, a towel, a sleeping bag, and a rain jacket.

Should I be concerned about language barriers when visiting Tibet?

When traveling to Tibet, there is no need to be concerned about communication difficulties. An English-speaking tour guide will accompany every group of tourists, and most of the front desk staff at large hotels are also fluent in the language. The four main languages used in Tibet are Chinese, Tibetan, English, and Nepali.

Which currencies should I carry with me on the trip?

Tibet uses the Chinese Yuan as its official currency. Any bank or ATM in China will allow you to exchange your dollars, euros, or pounds for the Chinese Yuan. On Saturdays and Sundays, banks in Tibet are closed. So having some cash on hand before starting your day trip is a good idea. Shigatse and Lhasa have ATMs, but locating one in other small towns in rural areas could be challenging. Nepalese Rupees is the national currency of Nepal. You may easily exchange your money for Nepalese Rupees in Kathmandu using a money changer or withdraw cash from banks and ATMs.

Is it safe to visit Tibet?

Tibet is generally a highly secure place. The majority of Tibetans believe that performing good deeds would reward them in the afterlife and are devout Buddhists. In this location, crime is comparatively rare. Travelers must be careful of stray dogs, though, as they are free to roam everywhere. When traveling at night, you must be careful. International visitors are highly discouraged from going outside at night.

How would you rate Tibet's restrooms?

For many Western tourists, using the restroom in Tibet is truly the worst experience ever. So, please keep your expectations in check. If you stay above a 3-star hotel in Lhasa, Shigatse, etc., you won't have any issues using a standard Western flush toilet. However, if you go to other places, like Yamdrok and EBC, you'll mainly see the vile-smelling pit restroom. It is preferable to bring ample toilet paper.

Tibet Everest Base Camp Tour, Cost for 2024, 2025

Did you know you can visit Everest Base Camp from Tibet? That's right! As Mt. Everest is situated at the border of Nepal and Tibet, it has two base camps: South Base Camp in Nepal and North Base Camp in Tibet. In this Tibet Everest Base Camp Tour, you'll be visiting the North Base Camp of Everest in Tibet side along with other prominent religious, cultural, and historical sites of Tibet in Lhasa, Gyantse, and Shigatse. The tour begins and ends in the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu.

Though not as popular as the South Base Camp on the Nepal side, the North Base Camp of Everest in Tibet side is mindblowing in its own way and is worth a visit. Due to its location in the high Tibetan Plateau, the Tibet Everest Base Camp presents a better view of Mt Everest along with a panorama of neighboring Himalayan mountains. On the other hand, Mt. Everest isn't even visible from Nepal Everest Base Camp. Furthermore, you can actually drive to the EBC on Tibet's side while you have to take a hazardous mountain flight and trek for 7-9 days in difficult Himalayan terrain to reach the EBC on Nepal's side. However, it's all about the preference.

Due to its easy accessibility, the 8 days Tibet Everest Base Camp is appropriate for all age groups and people of all fitness levels. It can be a rewarding family vacation with kids and elderlies to reach the base camp of the world's highest mountain while exposing yourselves to the rich Tibetan culture and learning about ancient Buddhism. Likewise, the natural splendor of Tibet, with a panorama of mountains, desert-like hilly terrain, and exquisite high-altitude holy lakes, is one of its kind.

The Tibet Everest Base Camp Tour is available with Outfitter Nepal Treks and Expedition on both group and private departures. Please find the dates list and select one to join our group tour. Contact us if the given date is not suitable for you or if you want to have a private tour of Tibet Everest Base Camp.

We acknowledge that 8 days won't be long enough to visit Tibet and EBC fully, but we promise that these 8 days on the Tibetan roads will be the most extraordinary and unforgettable road trip of your life. We won't be able to see everything, but we won't miss any significant landmarks. Our professionals at Outfitter Nepal created this itinerary to make the most of your brief visit to Tibet. Come along for a fantastic journey to the "Roof of the World" on our Tibet Everest Base Camp Tour.

We also arrange trekking to Everest Base Camp from the Nepal side. If you're interested, you can check that out as well.

Best Features of the Tibet Everest Base Camp Tour

Enjoy the divine north face of Mt. Everest from the North Base Camp of Everest in Tibet
Fly over the grand Himalayas on a scenic mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa
Spending two full days acclimatizing and exploring the historic city of Lhasa
Exploring major tourist attractions of Lhasa such as Potala Palace, Jhokang Temple, Barkhor Street, Sera Monastery, and so on
Visiting the magnificent Dadong Village on the outskirts of Lhasa
Take a spectacular road trip across constantly shifting landscapes from the Tibetan highlands to Kathmandu
Observing the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Tso, one of Tibet's most revered lakes
Paying a visit to the unique Pelkor Monastery and its Kumbum Stupa
Visiting Tashilumpo Monastery, a walled complex the size of a village
Re-entering Nepal through the Nepal-Tibet Friendship Border of Gyirong

What to anticipate from the Tibet Everest Base Camp Tour?

The Tibet Everest Base Camp Tour offers some of the most amazing scenery, Tibetan villages with very innocent people, and charming views of the Himalayas. The Everest Base Camp tour from Tibet is a blend of a culturally and naturally rewarding journey of your lifetime. The tour offers a visit to important places, including Tibet's cultural, historical, and natural attractions. This remarkable Everest Base Camp tour is full of amazing things. The fascinating panoramic view beaming from the great north face of Mount Everest is the major attraction of the Tibet EBC Tour.

The Lhasa Everest Base Camp Tour starts with the Himalayan flight from Kathmandu (the capital of Nepal) to Lhasa (the capital of Tibet). You have a 2-full day tour in Lhasa to visit all the cultural heritages. You then continue the tour to Everest Base Camp by road with an overnight stay at Gyantse, Shigatse, and Rongbuk. You will visit the Everest Base Camp and then travel to the Gyirong border. You pass the cross-country border between Nepal-Tibet at Rasuwagadhi and drive to the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, where your Tibet EBC Tour ends.

Major Attractions of the Tibet Everest Base Camp Tour

North Everest Base Camp

Elevated at an altitude of 5150 meters above sea level in Tibet, the North Everest Base Camp is among 2 base camps for the world's tallest mountain, Mt. Everest. It is a rudimentary campsite used by mountaineers climbing Mt. Everest from the Northeast Ridge in the Tibet side. One can hike to this base camp or drive. While the true climbers' Base Camp is at the base of the Rongbuk glacier, the "tourist Base Camp" is situated roughly midway between Rongbuk Monastery and the actual climbers' Base Camp. The dramatic views of Everest's north face are the main attraction of the North Everest Base Camp.

Rongbuk Monastery

Situated 8 km north of the North Everest Base Camp, at an altitude of 5009 meters, Rongbuk Monastery is regarded as the highest monastery in the world. About 2 to 3 hours of drive from Shelkar (New Tingri) or Old Tingri takes you to the monastery. It offers breathtaking views of the north face of Mt. Everest. On the occasion of the Saka Dawa Festival, the monastery organizes a Buddhist dancing ceremony to celebrate Sakyamuni's birth for 3 days every year.

Potala Palace

In the heart of Lhasa, atop Marpo Ri (Red Hill), stands an ancient palace called Potala Palace. From 1649 to 1949, it served as the Dalai Lamas' winter palace. It is now a complex of museums and office buildings. This enormous complex includes structures of thirteen floors of buildings, over 1000 chambers, 10,000 shrines, and 200,000 statues. It is one of the most well-known spiritual destinations on earth and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. With its golden dome shining in the sunlight, the palace can be seen from anywhere in the Lhasa Valley.

Barkhor Street in Old Lhasa

The crowded streets and open space surrounding the Jokhang Temple is known as Barkhor Street, also known as the modern Pargor Subdristict. Locals also do a spiritual circling of this well-known tourist attraction. The entire Jokhang Temple, the Muru Nyingba Monastery, and several former royal mansions, including Tromzikhang and Jamkhang, are encircled by this kilometer-long path. Four enormous incense burners (sangkangs) were constructed in each of the four cardinal directions to please the gods watching over the Jokhang. The Tromzikhang market in Barkhor is always packed with both locals and tourists.

Jokhang Temple

Jokhang Temple, located in Barkhor Square in Lhasa, is regarded as Tibet's most important Buddhist temple and is referred to as the "spiritual heart of the city." The temple's design incorporates features from the Vihara architectural styles of India, Nepal, and Tibet. King Songtsen Gampo founded the Jokhang when the Tibetan Empire was in power. The temple is said to have been built for the king's two wives, Princesses Wencheng of the Chinese Tang dynasty and Princess Bhrikuti of Nepal. According to legend, both queens brought valuable Buddhist statues and images to Tibet as part of their dowries, which were housed here.

Dadong Village

Dadong Village, often referred to as the most beautiful village in Lhasa, is situated about 20 kilometers southwest of the city center. This traditional Tibetan village is one of the finest preserved in the nation because of its deep valleys, ancient pathways, trickling springs, and lush vegetation. Travelers are drawn to this area by the ancient Nyimatang Monastery, the enigmatic Pharmacist Hall, and the former warehouse of the sixth Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso. In addition, one can take pleasure in the view of a clear blue sky sprinkled with white clouds, lovely green farmland, and sheep grazing.

Sera Monastery

Sera Monastery, one of Tibet's "great three" Gelug University monasteries, is situated 2 km north of Lhasa and around 5 km north of the Jokhang. The two remaining Gelug University monasteries are Drepung Monastery and Ganden Monastery. The monastery's name is believed to have come from the wild roses (or "sera" in Tibetan) that bloomed on the hill behind it while it was being constructed.

The Sera Monastery was founded in 1419 by Jamchen Chojey, a disciple of Je Tsongkhapa, as a collection of structures that included the Great Assembly Hall and three colleges. The former Sera Monastery consisted of 19 hermitages, 4 of which were nunneries. During the 1959 Lhasa uprising, the monastery suffered tremendous damage, with its colleges destroyed and hundreds of monks killed.

Yamdrok Tso (Lake Yamdrok)

The beautiful Lake Yamdrok, a freshwater lake, sits midway between Gyantse and Lhasa, the Tibetan capital. The lake, which is 130 kilometers long and 70 kilometers wide at its widest point, is located at an elevation of 4,441 meters above sea level. Yamdrok is the biggest freshwater inland lake in the northern Himalayas, with a maximum depth of 60 meters and an average depth of 20 to 40 meters. The lake, which is bordered by numerous snow-covered mountains, is fed by several little streams. Yamdrok Lake is one of Tibet's four largest sacred lakes, along with Lake Manasarovar, Lake Namtso, and Lake Lhamo Latso, and is thought to be the lifeline of the locals.

Pelkor Monastery

Gyantse Town is home to Pelkor Chode Monastery, often referred to as Palcho Monastery or Shekar Gyantse. It is the largest monastery in the Nyangchu River Valley in Gyantse County. The Sakya, Gelug, and Kadam schools of Tibetan Buddhism are all represented at the monastery, making it particularly unique in Tibet. The sanctuary, one of Tibet's highest-status monasteries, combines Tibetan, Chinese Han, and Nepalese architectural styles.

The main structure of the monastery's vast complex of monastic structures is the Kumbum Stupa, the only one of its sort in Tibet. The stupa, or chorten as the Tibetans call it, is the highest stupa in Tibet and stands 32 meters/105 feet tall. It is located inside the monastery walls. There are 108 cells in it, each with a unique statue and wall mural. From the upper floors of the Kumbum Stupa, you might have a fantastic view of the monastery, the nearby fort (Dzong), and Gyantse town.

Tashi Lhunpo Monastery

The 1st Dalai Lama founded the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in 1447 on a hilltop in Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. The Panchen Lama, the second-ranking tulku lineage in Tibetan Buddhism's Gelug order, had his traditional monastic residence in this historically and aesthetically significant monastery. The full Tibetan name of the monastery means "heap of glory" or "all fortune and happiness gathered here."