Tibet-everest-tour

Everest Base Camp Overland Tour

  • duration 8 days
  • difficulty Moderate
  • best season Aug-May
  • activity Overland Tour(Tibet)
  • group size min. 2 pax
  • start from Kathmandu
  • end in Kathmandu

trip overview

Drive to the roof of the world and stand at the northern base of Mount Everest in this extraordinary overland adventure. You will journey across the mystical Tibetan plateau, experiencing the world’s most accessible route to Everest Base Camp.

This comprehensive 8-day overland adventure seamlessly blends profound cultural immersion with the ultimate high-altitude experience, taking you by vehicle directly to Everest Base Camp at 5,000 meters. Unlike the southern base camp in Nepal, the Tibet Everest Base Camp (5000m) on the northern side is more accessible and easier to reach. As you journey through ancient Tibetan monasteries and sacred Buddhist sites, you’ll experience the cultural treasures of Lhasa, Shigatse and Gyantse, plus extraordinary lakes and glaciers. After spending the first three days in Lhasa appreciating the breathtaking wonders of the Potala Palace Jokhang Temple Drepung and Sera monasteries you’ll be properly acclimatized and ready to start your travel to Qomolangma base Camp .

Key highlights include:

Journey to Everest Base Camp (5,000m) Stand at the northern base of the world’s highest mountain with unparalleled vehicular access

Experience the cultural treasures of Lhasa, Shigatse and Gyantse Explore ancient monasteries, palaces, and traditional Tibetan architecture

Cross dramatic high passes Traverse Gyatso La (5,248m) and Gawu La (5,198m) with spectacular Himalayan panoramas. On the top of Gawu La, we will be able to witness the spectacular view of the Himalayan Ranges

Visit sacred Yamdrok Lake Witness the stunning turquoise waters of one of Tibet’s three holy lakes along with the glistening Karo La Glaciers

Explore Potala Palace Marvel at the former residence of the Dalai Lama and Tibet’s most iconic landmark

Witness sunrise over Mount Everest Experience the breathtaking dawn illumination of the world’s tallest peak and watch the sunrise the following morning

Three days of cultural acclimatization Proper altitude adaptation while exploring the highlights of Lhasa, such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, and Sera Monastery

Visit world’s highest monastery Explore Rongbuk Monastery at 5,000 meters above sea level

Ancient trade route exploration Follow historic paths through Gyantse and the famous Friendship Highway

Comprehensive Tibet experience From spiritual centers to high-altitude wilderness in one epic overland journey

Detailed itinerary

  • day 01
    Arrival in Lhasa (3,650m/11,975ft)

    Welcome to Tibet! Upon your arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in the heart of this ancient spiritual capital. At 3,650 meters above sea level, proper acclimatization is essential for the epic overland journey ahead. Take time to rest and adjust to the high altitude while soaking in the mystical atmosphere of this legendary city. In the evening, we’ll hold a comprehensive pre-trip meeting where we’ll review your incredible 8-day Everest Base Camp adventure, discuss the cultural significance of the sites we’ll visit, and answer any questions about this ultimate Tibetan overland experience.

    The first day in Lhasa is crucial for your body’s adaptation to high altitude, following the principle of gradual acclimatization that will serve you well as we ascend to even greater heights. Lhasa’s rich Tibetan atmosphere provides the perfect introduction to the profound cultural journey that awaits.

    Points of Interest:
    Lhasa city center and traditional Tibetan architecture
    Barkhor Street district for initial cultural immersion
    Local markets and authentic Tibetan cuisine
    Pre-trip briefing and cultural orientation
    Rest and acclimatization preparation

    • Accommodation: Hotel
  • day 02
    Lhasa Cultural Immersion: Jokhang Temple & Sera Monastery (3,650m/11,975ft)

    Your profound cultural journey begins with exploration of Tibet’s most sacred spiritual sites. We start at the revered Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s most important religious sanctuary and the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism. This 7th-century architectural masterpiece houses the precious statue of Jowo Rinpoche and attracts pilgrims from across the Tibetan plateau. Experience the mesmerizing devotion of prostrating pilgrims as you circumambulate the temple following ancient kora traditions along the bustling Barkhor Street.

    In the afternoon, we venture to Sera Monastery, one of the Great Three” Gelug monasteries of Tibet. Here you’ll witness the fascinating spectacle of monk debates animated philosophical discussions where monks clap, stomp, and gesture dramatically while testing each other’s understanding of Buddhist doctrine. After spending the first three days in Lhasa appreciating the breathtaking wonders of the Potala Palace Jokhang Temple Drepung and Sera monasteries you’ll be properly acclimatized and ready to start your travel to Qomolangma base Camp .

    Drive Distance: Local sightseeing | Drive Duration: 2-3 hours total | Difficulty Level: Easy (city exploration with minimal walking)

    Points of Interest:
    Jokhang Temple Tibet’s most sacred Buddhist site
    Barkhor Street circumambulation and traditional markets
    Sera Monastery’s famous monk debates (afternoon sessions)
    Traditional Tibetan pilgrimage customs and kora walking
    Authentic Tibetan Buddhist ceremonies and rituals

    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast
  • day 03
    Lhasa Architectural Marvels: Potala Palace & Drepung Monastery (3,650m/11,975ft)

    Today we explore Lhasa’s most magnificent architectural achievements, beginning with the iconic Potala Palace the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama and undoubtedly Tibet’s most recognizable landmark. This 13-story architectural marvel rises dramatically from Red Hill, containing over 1,000 rooms filled with invaluable artifacts, murals, and scriptures spanning centuries of Tibetan history. The palace represents the pinnacle of Tibetan architecture and offers breathtaking panoramic views across the Lhasa valley.

    Our afternoon takes us to Drepung Monastery, once the world’s largest monastery housing up to 10,000 monks at its peak. Founded in 1416, this sprawling complex of white buildings cascading down the hillside resembles a pile of rice, hence its name meaning Rice Heap” in Tibetan. Explore the assembly halls, kitchen quarters, and debating courtyards while learning about the monastery’s role as Tibet’s most influential center of learning. You can spend 2-3 days exploring the highlights of Lhasa, such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, and Sera Monastery .

    Drive Distance: Local sightseeing | Drive Duration: 2-3 hours total | Difficulty Level: Moderate (palace climb with stairs)

    Points of Interest:
    Potala Palace former Dalai Lama residence and UNESCO World Heritage Site
    Red and White Palace sections with ancient artifacts
    Panoramic views of Lhasa valley from palace heights
    Drepung Monastery once world’s largest monastic complex
    Traditional Tibetan monastic life and Buddhist philosophy

    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast
  • day 04
    Lhasa to Shigatse via Gyantse (3,950m/12,959ft)

    Today marks the beginning of your spectacular overland journey toward Everest Base Camp as we depart Lhasa for the dramatic drive across the Tibetan plateau. Our route takes us over the breathtaking Kampala Pass (4,794m) where prayer flags flutter in the high-altitude winds, leading to our first glimpse of the sacred Yamdrok Lake. This stunning turquoise gem, one of Tibet’s three holy lakes, stretches across the landscape like a scattered piece of heaven, its pristine waters reflecting the surrounding snow-capped peaks in perfect mirror clarity.

    Continuing our journey, we cross the Karo La Pass (5,045m) for spectacular views of the Karo La Glacier before descending into the historic trading town of Gyantse. Here we explore the remarkable Khumbum Stupa, a unique multi-story chorten containing 108 chapels with stunning murals and statues representing the entire Buddhist cosmology. We’ll stop by the holy Yamdrok Lake the glistening Karo La Glaciers Khumbum Stupa in Gyantse and Tashi Lhunpo monastery in Shigatse . Our day concludes in Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city and traditional seat of the Panchen Lama.

    Drive Distance: 341km (212 miles) | Drive Duration: 7-8 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (long drive with high passes)

    Points of Interest:
    Yamdrok Lake one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes with turquoise waters
    Kampala Pass (4,794m) with prayer flags and mountain views
    Karo La Pass (5,045m) and spectacular glacier views
    Gyantse’s historic trading post atmosphere
    Khumbum Stupa with 108 chapels and ancient murals
    Phalkhor Monastery complex

    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast
  • day 05
    Shigatse to Everest Base Camp via Rongbuk (5,000m/16,404ft)

    Today brings the most spectacular and challenging drive of your entire adventure as we journey from Shigatse toward the roof of the world. We begin with a visit to Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama and home to a magnificent 26-meter-high statue of the Future Buddha Maitreya. After this cultural immersion, we embark on the epic drive across the Tibetan plateau toward Mount Everest, following the famous Friendship Highway through increasingly dramatic high-altitude landscapes.

    Our route takes us across several magnificent high passes including Gyatso La Pass (5,248m) and the breathtaking Gawu La Pass (5,198m), where weather permitting, you’ll witness your first stunning views of the Everest massif along with Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. We will encounter a few high passes, Gyatso La, Gawu La, and Nyalam Passes. On the top of Gawu La, we will be able to witness the spectacular view of the Himalayan Ranges . Our destination is Rongbuk Monastery at 5,000 meters the world’s highest monastery, perfectly positioned with unparalleled views of Everest’s north face. From there we’ll ascend to over 5000 meters above sea level to spend a night at Everest base Camp .

    Drive Distance: 340km (211 miles) | Drive Duration: 8-9 hours | Difficulty Level: Challenging (high altitude and rough roads)

    Points of Interest:
    Tashilhunpo Monastery and giant Future Buddha statue
    Gyatso La Pass (5,248m) with high-altitude plateau views
    Gawu La Pass (5,198m) with first Everest panorama views
    Rongbuk Monastery world’s highest monastery at 5,000m
    North face of Mount Everest in full glory
    Traditional Tibetan high-altitude settlements

    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast
  • day 06
    Everest Base Camp Experience: Sunrise & Exploration (5,000m/16,404ft)

    Rise before dawn for one of the most spectacular experiences on Earth watching the sunrise illuminate Mount Everest from the northern base camp. As the first rays of sunlight kiss the summit pyramid of the world’s highest mountain, you’ll witness the peak transform from deep purple to brilliant gold in a display of natural beauty that few humans ever experience. The northern base camp offers unprecedented access compared to the southern Nepal side, allowing you to approach within mere meters of the Everest massif and watch the sunrise the following morning before returning to Lhasa .

     

    Spend the day exploring this legendary location where countless mountaineering expeditions have launched their summit attempts. Walk among the prayer flags and memorials that mark this sacred site, and visit the small museum that chronicles the history of Everest climbing attempts. The stark beauty of this high-altitude desert environment, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Himalayan giants, creates an otherworldly atmosphere that will remain etched in your memory forever. During monsoon season July and August changing weather conditions may affect the visibility of the peak. Sometimes the peak is still visible if you get up early enough in the morning .

    Drive Distance: Local exploration | Drive Duration: 2-3 hours exploration | Difficulty Level: Moderate (high altitude effects)

    Points of Interest:
    Sunrise over Mount Everest north face
    Everest Base Camp at 5,000m closest vehicular access to Everest
    Rongbuk Monastery world’s highest monastery
    Memorial stones and prayer flags from expeditions
    Spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, and Changtse peaks
    High-altitude Himalayan desert landscape

    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast
  • day 07
    Return Journey: Everest Base Camp to Lhasa via Shigatse (3,650m/11,975ft)

    Begin your return journey from the roof of the world as we depart Everest Base Camp for the long but rewarding drive back to Lhasa. The route retraces our spectacular path across the high passes, offering final opportunities to capture the magnificent Himalayan panoramas and reflect on your incredible achievement of reaching Mount Everest’s base. The dramatic landscape transitions from the stark high-altitude desert around Everest back to the more temperate climate of central Tibet as we descend.

     

    We pause in Shigatse for lunch and final exploration of Tibet’s second-largest city, perhaps visiting the traditional markets or taking final photos of Tashilhunpo Monastery if time permits. The final stretch to Lhasa provides time for reflection on this transformative journey while enjoying the changing scenery of the Tibetan plateau. Both Gyantse and Shigatse are slightly different from Lhasa and have their own value in Western Tibet tradition and culture . Arriving back in Lhasa feels like returning to civilization after your high-altitude odyssey, and tonight you can celebrate your extraordinary achievement with a traditional Tibetan farewell dinner.

    Drive Distance: 341km (212 miles) | Drive Duration: 8-9 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (long drive with gradual descent)

    Points of Interest:
    Final views of Everest and Himalayan ranges
    Retracing spectacular high pass crossings
    Shigatse city center and traditional markets
    Tashilhunpo Monastery (optional revisit)
    Transition from high-altitude desert to Lhasa valley
    Celebration of incredible achievement

    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner
  • day 08
    Final Departure from Lhasa (3,650m/11,975ft)

    After breakfast, depending on your flight time, you’ll have some free time for last-minute shopping in Lhasa’s traditional markets or relaxation at your hotel while processing the incredible experiences of the past week. Our representative will meet you at the hotel and transfer you to Lhasa Gonggar Airport for your departure flight. As you prepare to leave Tibet, you’ll carry with you memories of an extraordinary overland adventure having witnessed sunrise over Mount Everest, explored ancient monasteries, crossed dramatic high passes, and experienced the profound spiritual culture of Tibet.

     

    This comprehensive 8-day journey represents one of the most accessible yet complete Everest Base Camp experiences possible, combining cultural immersion with high-altitude adventure in the world’s most spectacular mountain environment. The northern approach to Everest offers unparalleled access and views that the southern Nepal route simply cannot match.

     

    Airport Transfer: Scheduled according to your flight time (typically 3 hours before international flights)

    Points of Interest:
    Final shopping opportunities in Lhasa markets
    Airport transfer and departure
    Reflection on extraordinary 8-day overland adventure
    Memories of Everest sunrise and Tibetan cultural immersion
    Completion of ultimate Tibet overland experience

    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast

What's Included

  • 5 nights accommodation in 3-star hotels (Lhasa and Shigatse)
    2 nights accommodation in guesthouses at Everest Base Camp
    Private 4WD Land Cruiser with experienced driver
    Professional English-speaking Tibetan guide
    All fuel, tolls, and parking fees
    Airport transfers in Lhasa
    Tibet Travel Permit and all required permits
    Everest Base Camp area permits and access fees
    Potala Palace entrance tickets
    All monastery and cultural site entrance fees
    Daily breakfast at all accommodations
    Welcome dinner in Lhasa
    Traditional farewell dinner with cultural performance
    Lunch during long driving days
    Pre-departure briefing and cultural orientation
    24/7 support during the tour
    Emergency contact information

What's Not Included

  • • International flights to and from Lhasa
    Chinese visa fees and processing
    Lunch and dinner meals not specified in itinerary
    Alcoholic beverages and bottled water
    Personal shopping and souvenirs
    Internet charges and phone calls
    Laundry services
    High-altitude travel insurance covering up to 6,000m
    Emergency helicopter evacuation coverage
    Tips for guide and driver
    Tips for hotel and restaurant staff
    Personal equipment and high-altitude clothing
    Sleeping bag for extreme temperatures
    Personal first aid kit and altitude medications
    Additional accommodation due to flight delays
    Optional helicopter flights over Everest
    Additional cultural shows or performances
    Medical emergencies and evacuation costs

Accommodation during the Trip

In Lhasa:

Three star hotel on twin-sharing basis included in package
Breakfast included at Lhasa hotels
Private bathroom facilities with heating and hot water
WiFi internet access available
Located in central Lhasa for easy access to cultural sites
Upgrade options available to four and five star properties
Single accommodation readily available (additional charge)
All hotels selected for reliable services at high altitude

During the Overland Journey:

Standard hotels on twin-sharing basis in Shigatse
Private bathroom facilities with heating in most locations
Electricity and basic internet available
Accommodation becomes more basic as we travel toward remote areas
All hotels provide comfortable beds with blankets and pillows
Hot water available though may be limited during peak times
Single rooms available but limited in smaller towns

At Everest Base Camp:

Guesthouse accommodation at Everest Base Camp (5,000m)
Twin-sharing basis in basic but clean rooms
Shared bathroom facilities are standard at this altitude
Basic heating provided though temperatures can be extreme
Limited electricity available for charging devices
No internet or communication services at base camp
Accommodation is the highest available on Earth at 5,000 meters
Facilities are basic but adequate for the extreme location
Additional blankets provided for sub-zero temperatures

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What permits do I need for the Tibet Everest Base Camp overland tour and how are they arranged?
    Multiple permits are required for this Tibet adventure:
    1. Tibet Travel Permit (essential for all visitors to Tibet)
    2. Everest Base Camp area permits and access fees
    3. Chinese visa (required for Tibet entry)
    4. All cultural site entrance permits
    Mountain Kick handles all Tibet permit arrangements as part of our service. You'll need to provide:
    • Your passport details (valid for at least 6 months)Two passport-sized photos Your arrival date in Lhasa Chinese visa documentation Travel insurance policy information Important Notes: Tibet Travel Permits cannot be obtained independently - must be arranged through registered tour operators Processing typically takes 10-15 business days All permits are checked at multiple checkpoints throughout the journey Unlike the southern base camp in Nepal, the Tibet Everest Base Camp (5000m) on the northern side is more accessible and easier to reach
     
  • How physically fit do I need to be and how should I prepare for high altitude?
    This overland tour requires moderate fitness as you'll be traveling by vehicle rather than trekking, but altitude preparation is crucial. You should be able to walk for 2-3 hours daily while carrying a daypack at altitudes up to 5,000 meters. Physical Preparation:
    • Cardiovascular training: 3-4 times weekly for 2-3 months (hiking, jogging, swimming)
    • Practice hiking at altitude if possible
    • Complete several day hikes with elevation gain before your trip
    • Focus on gradual fitness building rather than intense training
    Altitude Acclimatization:
    • Spend 2-3 days exploring the highlights of Lhasa, such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, and Sera Monastery
    • Follow the "climb high, sleep low" principle during the journey
    • Stay well-hydrated and avoid alcohol
    • Inform guides immediately of any altitude sickness symptoms
    The gradual ascent from Lhasa (3,650m) to Shigatse (3,950m) to Everest Base Camp (5,000m) allows for proper acclimatization.
  • What should I expect at Everest Base Camp on the northern Tibet side?
    The northern base camp offers a completely different experience from the Nepal trekking route, providing vehicular access directly to 5,000 meters. You'll experience one of the most spectacular locations on Earth - watching the sunrise illuminate Mount Everest from the northern base camp . What You'll Experience:
    • Closest vehicular access to Mount Everest available anywhere Rongbuk Monastery - the world's highest monastery at 5,000m Sunrise viewing over Mount Everest's north face Memorial stones and prayer flags from mountaineering expeditions Spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, and Changtse peaks High-altitude Himalayan desert landscape
    • Facilities at Base Camp:
      Basic guesthouse accommodation with shared facilities Limited heating and electricity for device charging No internet or communication services Shared bathroom facilities standard at this extreme altitude Additional blankets provided for sub-zero temperatures
    The stark beauty of this high-altitude desert environment, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, creates an otherworldly atmosphere.
  • What are the best seasons for this tour and what weather should I expect?
    Optimal Seasons: Spring (March-May): Warmer temperatures, clear mountain views, but can be windy Autumn (September-November): Most stable weather, excellent visibility, cold but manageable Summer (June-August): Monsoon season - changing weather conditions may affect the visibility of the peak. Sometimes the peak is still visible if you get up early enough in the morning Temperature Ranges: Lhasa: 10-20°C during day, 0-10°C at night Shigatse: 5-15°C during day, -5-5°C at night Everest Base Camp: -5-10°C during day, -15-(-25)°C at night Weather Considerations: Rapid weather changes possible at high altitude Wind speeds can be significant on exposed passes Early morning starts often in sub-zero temperatures Afternoon warming at lower elevations
  • What cultural considerations should I be aware of when visiting monasteries?
    Tibet has a rich Buddhist culture that requires respectful behavior at religious sites. After spending the first three days in Lhasa appreciating the breathtaking wonders of the Potala Palace Jokhang Temple Drepung and Sera monasteries you'll be properly acclimatized . Monastery Etiquette: Remove hats and sunglasses when entering temples No photography inside most temple halls (ask permission) Walk clockwise around religious sites (kora tradition) Don't point feet toward altars or religious statues Dress modestly - cover shoulders and avoid shorts Speak quietly and respect ongoing ceremonies Cultural Interactions: Learn basic Tibetan greetings like "Tashi Delek" (hello/good luck) Respect local customs around prayer wheels and mani stones Both Gyantse and Shigatse are slightly different from Lhasa and have their own value in Western Tibet tradition and culture Small donations are appropriate at monasteries Always ask before photographing local people
  • What are the road conditions and transportation like for this overland journey?
    The journey covers approximately 681km of varied road conditions across the Tibetan plateau, following historic trade routes and the famous Friendship Highway. Vehicle and Driver: Private 4WD Land Cruiser equipped for high-altitude conditions Experienced Tibetan driver familiar with mountain roads Vehicle includes oxygen supply and emergency equipment All fuel, tolls, and parking fees included Road Conditions: Paved highways between major cities (Lhasa to Shigatse) Rougher conditions approaching Everest Base Camp Multiple high passes: Gyatso La (5,248m), Gawu La (5,198m) We will encounter a few high passes, Gyatso La, Gawu La, and Nyalam Passes. On the top of Gawu La, we will be able to witness the spectacular view of the Himalayan Ranges Journey Times: Lhasa to Shigatse: 7-8 hours (341km) Shigatse to Everest Base Camp: 8-9 hours (340km) Return journey: Similar times with scenic stops
  • What insurance requirements are needed for this high-altitude adventure?
    Mandatory Coverage Requirements: High-altitude travel insurance covering up to 6,000m minimum
    Emergency helicopter evacuation from remote areas (essential)
    Medical treatment and hospitalization coverage
    Repatriation to home country if required
    Coverage for activities at extreme altitude Recommended Additional Coverage: Trip cancellation and interruption protection
    Equipment loss or damage coverage
    Weather-related delays and extra accommodation
    Search and rescue operations coverage Important Insurance Notes: Standard travel insurance typically excludes high-altitude activities
    Helicopter evacuation costs can range $3,000-$6,000 USD from remote areas
    Verify coverage includes vehicular access to 5,000+ meters
    Some insurers require disclosure of maximum altitude reached
    Emergency evacuation may be weather-dependent at extreme altitudes Comprehensive coverage is essential as you'll be traveling to one of the most remote and highest accessible locations on Earth.
  • What additional expenses should I budget for beyond the tour package?
    Beyond your tour package, budget for personal expenses and meals not included in the itinerary: Daily Meal Costs: Breakfast: $5-8 per meal (when not included) Lunch: $8-12 per meal Dinner: $10-15 per meal Hot drinks and snacks: $2-5 per item Personal Expenses: Bottled water: $1-3 per bottle Internet/WiFi: $3-5 per day (when available) Personal shopping and souvenirs: $10-50+ depending on purchases Photography fees at some cultural sites: $2-5 per site Tipping Guidelines: Tibetan guide: $8-12 per person per day Driver: $5-8 per person per day Hotel and restaurant staff: $1-3 per service Total recommended tipping: 10-12% of tour package price Other Costs: Chinese visa fees: $30-60 depending on processing time Personal equipment and warm clothing Travel insurance (mandatory) International flights to/from Lhasa or connecting Chinese cities
  • Which is best time of the year to travel?
    Most of the trekking routes are open throughout the year but September through to December and March to May are the best months to travel.
  • What emergency procedures are in place for high-altitude travel?
    Medical Emergency Protocols: Professional guide trained in high-altitude health monitoring
    24/7 emergency communication with Lhasa office
    Established protocols with helicopter companies and hospitals
    Immediate descent procedures for severe altitude-related illness
    Guides carry basic medical equipment and oxygen supplies Helicopter Evacuation: Available from most locations along the route (weather permitting)
    Costs approximately $3,000-$6,000 USD from high altitude
    Must be covered by comprehensive travel insurance
    Weather conditions at 5,000m+ can affect evacuation timing
    Evacuation to Lhasa or Kathmandu hospitals depending on location Communication: Guides carry satellite phones for emergency communication
    Mobile coverage available in major towns but not at Everest Base Camp
    Emergency contact information provided for families
    Local authorities and medical facilities alerted to group movements Vehicle Safety: All vehicles equipped with emergency equipment and oxygen
    Drivers experienced in high-altitude and challenging road conditions
    Alternative route options available if road conditions deteriorate
    Regular vehicle maintenance and safety checks Preventive Measures: Daily health monitoring by experienced guides
    Gradual altitude progression to minimize altitude sickness risk
    Rest days built into itinerary for proper acclimatization
    Emergency evacuation procedures reviewed during pre-trip briefing Safety always takes priority over itinerary completion, and professional guides are trained to make conservative decisions regarding weather and health conditions.
  • What type of accommodation can I expect during this tour?
    Accommodation varies significantly based on location and altitude, with facilities becoming more basic as you approach Everest Base Camp. In Lhasa: Three-star hotels on twin-sharing basis
    Private bathroom facilities with heating and hot water
    WiFi internet access available
    Breakfast included at hotels
    Upgrade options available to four and five-star properties During the Overland Journey: Standard hotels in Shigatse with private bathrooms
    Basic heating and limited hot water
    Electricity available for device charging
    Single rooms available but limited in smaller towns At Everest Base Camp: Guesthouse accommodation at 5,000m elevation
    Twin-sharing basis in basic but clean rooms
    Shared bathroom facilities (standard at this altitude)
    Basic heating provided though temperatures can be extreme
    Limited electricity for essential device charging
    No internet or communication services
    Accommodation represents the highest available on Earth Important Notes: Single supplement available in cities only (additional cost)
    Bring sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures
    Extra blankets provided at high altitude

Essential Trip Information

Medical consultation is essential before your overland tour consult with a doctor regarding any medications you plan to take or bring during the tour, as high altitude can affect how medications work in your body. Disclose all medications you plan to bring to your tour leaders and guides.

Diamox (Acetazolamide) is commonly used for altitude sickness prevention, but should only be taken after consulting with your doctor about proper dosage and potential side effects.

Tibet Travel Permit is mandatory for all visitors and cannot be obtained independently must be arranged through registered tour operators only. Processing typically takes 10-15 business days and requires passport details, photos, and Chinese visa documentation.

Chinese visa is required for Tibet entry and must be obtained before arrival. Processing can take 3-10 business days depending on your nationality and processing type chosen.

Spare days are essential plan 2-3 additional days beyond the standard itinerary to avoid missing international flights due to unpredictable Himalayan weather and road conditions. Schedule your international departure at least 2-3 days after your planned tour completion.

High-altitude vehicle-dependent travel Unlike trekking routes, this tour depends entirely on road conditions and vehicle access to reach Everest Base Camp at 5,000 meters. Weather, landslides, or road maintenance can affect the itinerary. Unlike the southern base camp in Nepal, the Tibet Everest Base Camp (5000m) on the northern side is more accessible and easier to reach.

Specialized high-altitude insurance covering vehicular travel up to 6,000m minimum is mandatory. Standard travel insurance excludes high-altitude activities above certain elevations. Emergency helicopter evacuation coverage essential.

Weather-dependent objectives include crossing high passes and Everest Base Camp access. During monsoon season July and August changing weather conditions may affect the visibility of the peak. Sometimes the peak is still visible if you get up early enough in the morning . No refunds for weather-related cancellations or incomplete sections.

 

Proper acclimatization schedule After spending the first three days in Lhasa appreciating the breathtaking wonders of the Potala Palace Jokhang Temple Drepung and Sera monasteries you’ll be properly acclimatized and ready to start your travel to Qomolangma base Camp . Do not alter the acclimatization schedule.

 

Extreme temperature clothing rated for -25°C minimum required at Everest Base Camp. Four-season sleeping bag and high-altitude gear essential for survival at 5,000 meters elevation.

 

Communication limitations No internet, phone service, or communication available at Everest Base Camp. Limited mobile coverage in major towns only. Emergency communication via guides’ satellite phones.

 

Cultural sensitivity requirements Respect for Tibetan Buddhist customs mandatory at all monastery visits. Photography restrictions apply at religious sites. Modest dress required and specific etiquette must be followed.

 

Emergency evacuation costs $3,000-$6,000 USD from high altitude and must be covered by proper insurance. Helicopter rescue is weather-dependent and may not be possible during storms or extreme conditions.

 

Road condition dependency Multiple high passes including Gyatso La (5,248m) and Gawu La (5,198m) can be affected by weather, requiring flexible itinerary adjustments. On the top of Gawu La, we will be able to witness the spectacular view of the Himalayan Ranges .

 

Physical preparation timeline should begin 2-3 months before departure with cardiovascular training and practice at altitude if possible. While this is vehicle-based travel, you’ll still need fitness for altitude and walking at base camp.

 

Success rates depend on weather conditions, road accessibility, proper acclimatization, and individual response to extreme altitude. Individual limitations may affect group progress and safety decisions are made by guides based on conditions.

 

Packing Checklist

Key items for Tibet EBC Overland Tour include:

Layered clothing system Base, mid, and outer layers for extreme temperature variations from Lhasa to 5,000m elevation

Extreme cold weather gear Rated for at least -25°C temperatures at Everest Base Camp

Comfortable walking shoes For monastery visits and base camp exploration on foot

Warm sleeping bag Rated for sub-zero temperatures in basic guesthouse accommodation

UV-protecting sunglasses For protection against intense high-altitude sun and snow glare

Camera equipment with extra batteries Essential for capturing spectacular Himalayan scenery

Modest clothing for cultural sites Respectful attire for monastery visits throughout Tibet

Personal comfort items For long vehicle journeys and basic accommodation facilities

view full list

We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary. You can customize your itinerary exactly the way you want. Please share with us your ideas.

Customize your trip single

csr

As one of the core guiding principles for Mountain Kick, we always give back to the mountain community in any way we can as a means of gratitude. The people who live in the Himalayas and share their homes with us deserve to have all their little problems fixed which seem very basic for outsiders but are commonplace in rural Nepal. The people lack proper access to healthcare, sanitation and education but a little effort from travellers goes on a long way to solve these issues. Mountain Kick has made it its corporate social responsibility to help improve the living standards of the local community. We make donations to their cause, organize social campaigns and programs and also have a few trips designed to mix a little volunteer work in your holiday.

READ MORE ABOUT CSR

Ready to Book Your Trip?

QUICK INQUIRY

Quick inquiry form

More Trip Inspiration

Tibet
from usd N/A
14 Days

Lhasa Tour

india-tour
from usd N/A
Our Representatives