10-Day Tibet Tour: Nyingchi, Lhasa & Everest (Hilton Stay)

Fly to Nyingchi, where a private airport transfer with name sign service is arranged, followed by a direct transfer to your hotel.
With an average altitude of around 3,000 meters, Nyingchi is considered one of the most gentle and comfortable entry points into Tibet. Known as the “best low-altitude gateway to Tibet,” it offers lush forests and higher oxygen levels, allowing your body to gradually acclimatize to the plateau. Take it slow, relax, and enjoy the fresh air and peaceful Tibetan atmosphere.

Although Nyingchi is a lower-altitude region with milder altitude effects, it is still recommended to rest upon arrival. Avoid strenuous activities, stay hydrated, maintain a regular schedule, and refrain from alcohol or smoking to help your body adapt smoothly.

Travel along one of Nyingchi’s most scenic plateau routes to Lulang, crossing Sejila Mountain and enjoying distant views of Mount Namcha Barwa, known as the “Most Beautiful Peak in Tibet.” Snow-capped mountains, clouds, and pristine forests create breathtaking landscapes throughout the journey. Stroll through the Lulang Forest, often called a natural oxygen bar, and visit the traditional Tibetan village of Zhaxigang. Experience horseback riding and archery in Lulang, blending nature and local culture into a relaxing yet enriching day.

▶ Sejila Mountain (View of Mount Namcha Barwa)
One of the most iconic viewpoints in Nyingchi. On clear days, enjoy panoramic views of Mount Namcha Barwa, with drifting clouds and snow peaks creating a dreamlike scene.

▶ Lulang Forest Viewpoint
Known as the “forest oxygen bar of the plateau,” this area features layers of snow mountains, meadows, and dense forests, offering fresh air and expansive views.

▶ Zhaxigang Village
Step into an authentic Tibetan village with traditional houses and fluttering prayer flags, experiencing genuine local life and culture.

▶ Lulang Town (Horse Riding & Archery Experience)
Enjoy horseback riding and archery surrounded by mountains and grasslands, a signature cultural experience in Lulang.

★ Travel Tips:
Weather at Sejila Mountain can change quickly, so warm clothing is recommended. Visibility of Mount Namcha Barwa depends on weather conditions. For horse riding and archery, please follow staff instructions and prioritize safety.

Depart from Nyingchi and head to Basum Tso, known as the “Emerald Lake of the Plateau.” The lake changes shades of blue and green under different light, reflecting snow mountains and pristine forests in a serene and sacred setting. Stroll along the lakeshore and experience the tranquility of the plateau. Continue to Lhasa, where the journey transitions into the cultural heart of Tibet.

▶ Basum Tso (Sacred Alpine Lake)
One of Tibet’s most famous lakes and a significant Tibetan Buddhist sacred site. Its crystal-clear waters mirror the surrounding snow peaks and forests, creating a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.

▶ Xiuba Ancient Fortress
An important military site from the Tubo Kingdom, built along the mountainside with a commanding presence. Walking among the ruins offers a glimpse into Tibet’s ancient defensive history.

★ Travel Tips:
Temperatures around Basum Tso can vary greatly between day and night, so warm clothing is recommended. As it is a sacred site, please respect local customs and the environment. The terrain at Xiuba Fortress can be uneven, so wear comfortable, non-slip shoes.

Discover Lhasa through its most iconic and unforgettable experiences.Visit the UNESCO-listed Potala Palace and enjoy panoramic views of the “City of Sunshine.” Step into Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism, and witness centuries of devotion. Stroll along Barkhor Street, where pilgrims and local life blend seamlessly. In the afternoon,enjoy a special Potala Palace view afternoon tea, creating a relaxed and elegant moment in this sacred city.

➤ Potala Palace
The most iconic landmark of Tibet and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built against the mountain, the palace stands majestically above Lhasa, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

➤ Jokhang Temple
One of the most sacred temples in Tibetan Buddhism, housing the revered statue of the 12-year-old Buddha. Devotees prostrate in devotion, creating a powerful spiritual atmosphere.

➤ Barkhor Street
The traditional pilgrimage circuit around Jokhang Temple and the vibrant old quarter of Lhasa. Prayer wheels, shops, and local culture create a lively and authentic experience.

▶ Potala Palace Afternoon Tea Experience
Enjoy a specially arranged afternoon tea with views of the Potala Palace. Relax and take in the stunning scenery, creating one of the most memorable moments of your journey.

★ Travel Tips:
Entry to the Potala Palace is time-controlled, so please follow the guide’s arrangements. Expect some walking in the city — comfortable shoes are recommended. Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street are sacred sites; please respect local customs and traditions.

Visit two of Lhasa’s most significant spiritual sites for a journey into Tibetan faith and philosophy. In the morning, head to Zaki Temple, known for blessings of wealth, where you can witness devoted pilgrims and vibrant religious rituals. Later, visit Sera Monastery to experience the famous monk debates — a dynamic display of wisdom expressed through gestures, clapping, and lively discussion.

▶ Zaki Temple (Wealth Blessing Temple)
One of Lhasa’s most sacred sites for seeking wealth. Devotees offer tsampa, butter lamps, and khatas to pray for blessings, and the temple is bustling with worshippers year-round, making it an important part of the locals’ daily spiritual life. Follow your guide on a tour of the temple to experience the most authentic atmosphere of Tibetan prayer and add a touch of good fortune to your journey.

▶ Sera Monastery (Monk Debates)
One of the “Great Three Monasteries” of Lhasa, Sera Monastery is famous for its afternoon monk debates. Through clapping, questioning, and interaction, monks engage in lively philosophical discussions — a powerful and unique cultural experience.

★ Travel Tips:
At Zaki Temple, small offerings are welcome for blessings. Monk debates at Sera Monastery may be suspended during festivals or special religious events.

Travel from sacred lakes to glacier landscapes. Begin your day with a scenic drive to Yamdrok Lake, a turquoise alpine lake often compared to a sapphire. Continue to the magnificent Karola Glacier for an up-close view of the ice world. In the afternoon, visit Pelkor Chode Monastery, known for its unique architecture and cultural significance, before arriving in Shigatse — the gateway to western Tibet.

▶ Yamdrok Lake (Sacred Lake)
One of Tibet’s three sacred lakes, Yamdrok Lake is renowned for its vivid blue color that shifts with the light. It is considered a spiritual lake where locals come to pray for blessings.

▶ Karola Glacier
One of the most accessible glaciers in Tibet, located at around 5,600 meters. Its towering ice walls resemble frozen waterfalls, offering a dramatic and unforgettable sight.

➤ Hakujuji Temple
A historic monastery representing the fusion of three major Buddhist traditions, home to Tibet’s tallest stupa at 42 meters, housing 100,000 Buddha statues. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and the ancient town below.

➤ Rikaze
The second largest city in Tibet, at an altitude of about 3,800 meters, it is an important rest stop before heading to Mount Everest.

Over the vast mountain passes of the plateau, we gradually approach the Himalayan hinterland.Over 5,000 meters by the time it reaches the Gawra Pass.Before us unfolds a magnificent vista of five 8,000-meter-high snow-capped peaks standing side by side: Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Mount Everest, and Shishapangma. Layer upon layer of snow-capped peaks stretched endlessly, with clouds and mist swirling around the summits; the grandeur of heaven and earth was condensed here into a wordless majesty. In the afternoon, we arrived at Rongbuk Monastery. This highest-altitude monastery in the world stood quietly, facing Mount Everest, as the sound of the temple bells intertwined with the wind, as if in conversation with the heavens.We arrived at the Everest Base Camp to see the "Sunshine Mountain" at sunset.As the golden light gradually ignites the summit, the mind is left speechless.Under the starry night sky, the silhouette of Everest and the Milky Way reflect each other, which is a rare time in life to have a heart-to-heart conversation with the top of the world.

➤ Gawula Pass Viewpoint
At an elevation of 5,198 meters, this is one of the most spectacular vantage points for viewing the peaks of the Himalayas. From here, you can take in a panoramic view of five 8,000-meter-class snow-capped mountains at once—the vista is truly vast. Standing at the pass, heaven and earth seem to merge, giving one a profound sense of “human insignificance and the grandeur of nature.”

➤ Rongbuk Monastery
The world’s highest monastery, perched on a mountain summit at an altitude of 5,154 meters. More than a sacred place of faith, it offers one of the best vantage points for viewing Mount Everest. At dawn and dusk, the gentle sound of temple bells and fluttering prayer flags seem to suspend time—capturing the profound silence and solemn majesty between heaven and earth.

➤ Everest Base Camp
Located at an altitude of 5,200 meters, it is a must-see for pilgrims and explorers. At dusk, you can enjoy the magnificent "Sunrise Mountain", and at night, you can look up at the starry sky, where the Milky Way is intertwined with Mount Everest, making you feel as if you can touch the heartbeat of the universe. For many people, this is a must-visit holy place and the most profound baptism of the soul.

Staying at the world’s highest camp, the first thing you do when you wake up is gaze at the mountains. On a clear morning, the first rays of sunlight fall on the summit of Mount Everest, and the entire mountain gradually turns golden, starting from the peak. The whole process takes no more than ten or so minutes—it’s the moment on this 10-day journey that’s most worth getting up early for. After watching the sunrise, we began our return journey, crossing the [Jiacuola Pass], and arrived in the afternoon at the ancient Tibetan monastery [Sakya Monastery] in Back Tibet. That evening, we returned to the Hilton in Shigatse for a good night’s rest.

➤ Everest Sunrise Gold Mountain
I’d seen Jinshan once at sunset, and I had a second chance at dawn. The angle of the morning light was different from that of twilight, making the layers of the snow-capped peaks more distinct—it created a whole different atmosphere in the photos.

▶ Gyatso La Pass
At an elevation of about 5,200 meters, this is the highest point on the return trip. The driver will stop here so everyone can get out and hang prayer flags, leaving the blessings they’ve gathered along the way at the mountain pass.

▶ Sakya Monastery
The main monastery of the Sakya School is painted with red, white, and gray stripes on its exterior walls, making it easily recognizable from a distance. The monastery houses a vast collection of sutras and artifacts from the Yuan Dynasty and is known as the “Second Dunhuang.” Once you step into the main hall and see the towering wall of sutras, you’ll understand where this nickname comes from.

★ Travel Tips:
Whether you can see the sunrise over the Golden Mountains depends on the cloud cover that day, so we cannot guarantee a view. Early morning temperatures at Mount Everest are often below freezing, so please keep a down jacket, hat, and gloves in your carry-on bag. The Jiacuo La Pass is at a high altitude and is very windy; after taking photos and hanging prayer flags, please return to the vehicle—it is not advisable to stay there for long.

Begin the day at Tashilhunpo Monastery before boarding the Lhasa–Shigatse Railway, often called the “Sky Road of the World.” During the 2.5-hour journey, enjoy ever-changing views of snow mountains, grasslands, and the Yarlung Tsangpo River, making the return journey just as memorable.

▶ Tashilhunpo Monastery
One of the most important monasteries in Tibet and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. It houses a giant 26.2-meter Maitreya Buddha statue and a grand assembly hall accommodating thousands of monks.

➤ Lhasa–Shigatse Railway
Known as the “Sky Railway of the Tibetan Plateau,” this scenic journey takes about 2.5 hours, offering cinematic views of mountains, valleys, and vast landscapes along the way.

For the leg from Shigatse back to Lhasa, we’ve made special arrangements to take the Lhasa-Shigatse Railway instead, so you won’t have to endure another long bus ride. The view out the window features snow-capped mountains and the Yarlung Tsangpo River all along the way, so you can enjoy the scenery on the return trip as well.

➤ Airport & Train Station Transfers (24/7 Private Service)

We provide 24-hour private transfer service. Whether it is an early morning flight or a late-night train, we arrange private vehicles with no sharing and no waiting, ensuring you arrive at the airport or railway station safely and on time.

CITS Global Travel—China2Go—will be with you every step of the way until the very end of your journey, ensuring you return home safely with wonderful memories.

➤Train arrangements in Tibet can also be assisted if needed.