This demanding hike through the alpine landscape of the majestic Himalayas is an excellent choice for seasoned hikers and adventurers. To embark on this trek, you must be physically fit and properly acclimated before venturing into the lofty Kharta Valley. Therefore, after a few days of acclimatization and rest in Lhasa, including a gentle visit to the mystical Potala Palace, some divine temples, and monasteries, we gradually make our way towards the towering peaks of the great Himalayas.
Eventually, the rugged path along the Bumchu River leads us to Kharta. The exciting yet challenging hike takes us through several high passes and stunning glacial lakes, then through the fertile Karma valley to Khangshung Everest Base Camp and the thriving Khangshung glacier in the Pethang Ringmo meadow. It provides breathtaking close-up views of Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse. Then, we loop across the alpine valleys and pass back to Kharta before descending to Lhasa.
Itinerary
Day 1 Lhasa Arrival
Welcome to the top of the world! Upon your arrival at the airport or train station, you will be greeted and transferred to your Lhasa city hotel in a private vehicle. Along the way, admire the stunning scenery of the Yarlong Tsangpo River and catch glimpses of Tibetan landmarks, such as hillside engravings of a Big Buddha, vibrant prayer flags, and amiable locals.
Once you arrive at your hotel, the remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore the surrounding vicinity and adjust to the elevated altitude of this mountainous city.
Day 2 Lhasa Sight seeing
After breakfast, you will first visit Norbulingka Park, the former summer palace of the Dalai Lama. Explore the beautiful gardens and experience one of the holiest sites in Tibetan Buddhism while soaking up the rich history. Next, come to Drepung Monastery, which was once the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery, housing 10,000 monks in its heyday. Learn about the lives of Tibetan monks.
Your tour ends at Sera Monastery, where you will get the chance to experience “Buddhism Scriptures Debating”. These debates are unique to Sera and are quite famous. Enjoy the debates!
Day 3 Wondering Lhasa
The overwhelming Potala Palace is your first stop. As the symbol of Tibet, it was built in 641 AD and was the winter palace of Dalai Lama who is Tibet’s pope. Impressive Tibetan architecture, huge golden Buddha statues, red-robed lamas and devoted pilgrims all make it a must-visit.
In the afternoon, explore the Jokhang Temple, which serves as the spiritual hub of Tibet. Devotees from all over Tibet embark on long journeys to pay their respects here every day. Afterwards, follow the traditional circular pilgrimage path along Barkhor Street.
Day 4 – Day 6Lhasa to Shegar
After a couple of days getting used to the high altitude, you can drive across the Gampa la and Karo la passes to reach Gyantse and Shigatse on the western Tibetan plateau. Along the way, you’ll climb up the Gampa la (4900m) through a series of switchbacks. From the pass, you’ll be amazed by the stunning views of the holy Lake Yamdrok and snow-capped Mt. Nyenchen Kangsar in the background.
You’ll then continue on to Gyantse and Shigatse, passing blooming glaciers and scattered villages. Both cities have significant historical and religious importance dating back to ancient times. Gyantse is known as the “hero’s town” since British troops were defeated by Gyantse guerrillas in 1904. Additionally, these areas have slightly different cultures and traditions than Lhasa. While there, you’ll visit Gyantse Kubhum Stupa and Tashi Lhunpo Monastery. Next, you’ll gradually ascend into the mountainous Himalayan terrain by crossing a few remarkable passes. You’ll have your first panoramic view of the Himalayas from the ridge of the Gyatso la pass (5400m) before continuing on to Shegar. On the way, you’ll visit Sakya Monastery.
Day 7 – Day 16Kharda Trekking
We ascend the Gewu la pass (5250m) via a zigzagging, bumpy road and take in the breathtaking panorama of five imposing peaks from the ridge. We proceed to descend into the Kharta valley and commence a thrilling trek through diverse landscapes – from snowcapped peaks to fertile valleys, rocky mountains to alpine meadows and glacial lakes – until we reach our day destination. Here, we are rewarded with dramatic, close-up views of the mighty Mt. Everest and jagged Mt. Lhotse. We then head back to Kharta to complete the loop back to the village.
Day 17 – Day 19 Return Back to Lhasa
Retrace the route to Lhasa, taking in the plateau landscapes missed during the ascent. Follow the northern friendship highway along the Brahmaputra river’s shore, arriving in Lhasa in time to explore the bustling Bakhor street in the afternoon. Before departing the following day, peruse the local market to acquire souvenirs for loved ones at home.
Day 20 Departure
Before your departure from the Tibet plateau, we kindly request a few minutes of your time to evaluate our services for future improvement. You may leave your feedback form with your guide or send us an email. On the day of your departure, your guide and driver will meet you in the hotel lobby and transfer you to the airport or train station according to your schedule. This concludes your trip.
PRICES AND SERVICES
What’s included in this price?
- Experienced tour guide offering private English excursions with private transportation and luggage transfers included.
- All necessary travel permits for Tibet.
- Accommodations are available for double occupancy in three-star hotels or higher in urban areas and guest houses or tents in remote locations.
- Meals, admission fees, and activity expenses are included as indicated in the itinerary.
- Service charges, such as planning, handling, operational, and communication fees, along with government taxes, are also included.
- Accident and casualty assistance is provided.
What’s excluded in this price?
- Chinese visa, transportation to and from Tibet via air or train.
- Additional sightseeing beyond the itinerary.
- Meals are not specified in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses include laundry, beverages, fax, phone calls, optional tours, etc.
- Gratuity for guides, drivers, bellboys, and other staff.
- Charges for exceeding baggage limits.
- Supplement fee for single occupancy rooms.
Value for money:
- While the trip of a lifetime is priceless, we know value is a vital aspect for those deciding which tour to choose.
- When comparing tour prices, be sure to compare like to like. Our tours are designed to ensure that our customers experience all the culture, history, and beauty that Tibet has to offer, and at a reasonable price.
- A great way to ensure the lowest possible price is to invite more people on the trip. The more people in a group, the lower the price per person. (We recommend you join our group tour if you are travelling alone. Please contact our travel consultant for more information)
- Booking early is also an easy way to ensure the best rate! We highly recommend you contact us at least 1 month before your planned departure date.
TOURS FAQS
IS IT POSSIBLE TO CANCEL MY CUSTOM TOUR PACKAGE?
Yes, it is possible to cancel your tailor-made tour package. However, please note that cancellation charges will apply as per Tour Tibet’s cancellation policy. We recommend that you carefully read our Terms and Conditions for more information.
CAN I PLAN MY OWN TRIP TO TIBET? IS IT MORE CONVENIENT AND COST-EFFECTIVE?
No, it is not possible to plan your own trip to Tibet. To travel to Tibet, you must first obtain a Tibet Travel Permit, which can only be applied for by a local travel agency authorized by the Tibet Tourist Bureau.
CAN I MEET WITH A TRAVEL CONSULTANT IN PERSON?
Absolutely! We encourage our clients to visit our office and speak with our travel consultants face-to-face. We will work with you to customize your Tibet tour according to your preferences.
WHAT ARE THE PAYMENT OPTIONS?
Once you have confirmed your tour arrangements and itinerary, you will be required to pay a deposit of 20% of the total trip cost. You can make the payment through PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, or Wire Transfer. The final payment must be made before the start of your tour.
DO I HAVE TO TRAVEL ON SPECIFIC DATES?
No, you can travel to Tibet on any date that suits you (subject to flight availability). The itineraries listed on our website are just examples, and you can modify them to suit your preferences and budget. Our travel consultants will provide expert advice and answer any questions you may have.
DO I HAVE TO TRAVEL AS PART OF A GROUP?
No, our tailor-made tours are designed for individual travelers. This means that you can customize your itinerary according to your own pace and preferences, without being tied to the wishes of a group. However, if you prefer to travel with a group, we also offer small group tours for up to 16 people.
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