8 Days Lhasa Gyantse Shigatse Mt Everest Group Tour

Traveling to Tibet is often a bucket-list dream, but organizing a trip can seem overwhelming — especially with the region’s strict permits and remote locations. That’s where an organized tour like this 8-day group adventure from Great Tibet Tour truly shines. It promises an all-inclusive experience with transport, accommodation, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary covering Tibet’s most iconic sites.

Our review highlights some standout features — such as the expert guides and breathtaking scenery — but also considers potential drawbacks, like the pace of travel. This tour looks like a fantastic choice for first-timers eager to see Tibet’s key attractions without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you’re after an immersive, well-organized trip that balances cultural sights with stunning natural beauty, this might be just what you need.

What We Love About This Tour

One of the real strengths of this tour is the comprehensive itinerary that takes you from the historic Potala Palace to the majestic Mount Everest. We especially appreciate that everything is arranged for you — from accommodations to transport — freeing you up to focus on soaking in the sights and culture. The guides are praised for their knowledge, with travelers mentioning their patience, friendliness, and ability to enrich the experience.

Another highlight: the incredible scenery. Passing through mountain passes, holy lakes, and viewing Everest itself, travelers consistently mention how unforgettable the landscapes are. Plus, the inclusion of authentic Tibetan meals and the opportunity to explore local markets adds a genuine touch to the trip.

However, a few travelers note that some days are long and involve a lot of driving, especially the journey from Shigatse to Everest. Altitude sickness is a common concern, and this tour does include some challenging high-altitude passes. It’s important to be prepared for the physical demands, especially if you’re sensitive to altitude.

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors to Tibet or those who want a balanced mix of culture, nature, and iconic views without the stress of logistics. It’s also a good fit for travelers who appreciate guided experiences and group travel to meet like-minded adventurers.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Accommodation, transport, permits, and some meals are covered, making logistics one less thing to worry about.
• Expert Guides: The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, often going above and beyond.
• Iconic Sites: Visit top Tibetan landmarks including Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Everest Base Camp.
• Stunning Landscapes: Expect breathtaking views of Yamdroktso Lake, Karo La Glacier, and the Himalayan peaks.
• Long Travel Days: Some days involve extensive driving, with opportunities for altitude-related discomfort.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunities to explore local markets, Tibetan museums, and royal gardens.
• Good Value for Money: At $1,100, this tour covers a lot, from transportation and permits to guided sightseeing, making it a pretty compelling package.

The Full Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Hotel

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup and transfer to your accommodation, ensuring a smooth start. Since airport pick-ups are included, you won’t need to worry about navigating the busy Lhasa airport. Expect a friendly greeting and a chance to settle in before the adventure begins.

Day 2: Exploring Lhasa’s Cultural Gems

Your first full day dives into Tibet’s spiritual core. Visiting Drepung Monastery, the world’s largest monastery and former residence of Dalai Lamas, offers a glimpse into monastic life that’s over 10,000 years old. Reviewers highlight how impressive the architecture is and how informative the guides are, often sharing stories about the Dalai Lama’s historical residence.

In the afternoon, the Tibet Museum provides a fascinating look into local customs, traditional clothing, and festivals. Travelers appreciate the opportunity to understand Tibetan life beyond its stunning scenery.

Next, a visit to Norbulingka, the Dalai Lama’s summer palace, showcases Tibetan royal garden design. It’s a peaceful spot with traditional architecture, perfect for photos and reflection.

Day 3: The Heart of Lhasa

The Potala Palace is undoubtedly the star of the day. Built by King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century and reconstructed by the 5th Dalai Lama, it’s the epitome of Tibetan architecture and spirituality. Visitors often mention that the interior is awe-inspiring, with intricate murals and historic artifacts.

Following this, Jokhang Temple, considered Tibet’s most sacred site, buzzes with pilgrims and locals. It’s a vibrant hub of devotion, and the guided explanations help you grasp its religious and historical significance.

Finally, walking around Barkhor Street immerses you in local life. The street’s lively market atmosphere, old prayer wheels, and traditional shops make it a lively end to the day.

Day 4: From Lhasa to Gyantse and Shigatse

Traveling out of the city, you’ll enjoy the scenery and several stops. Yamdrok Yumtso Lake is a highlight, with its shimmering blue waters and views of Mount Nyenchen Khangsar. Reviewers note that the lake’s beauty is unforgettable, especially on clear days. Be prepared for a short photo stop or walk along the lakeshore.

The Karo La Glacier offers a quick roadside glimpse of icy grandeur, a favorite for those interested in geology and natural wonders.

In Gyantse, the Pelkor Chode Monastery combines religious history with stunning architecture. Despite several travelers praising the scenic drive, some mention the long driving hours — over 230 km from Lhasa to Gyantse, then onward to Shigatse.

Day 5 & 6: The Everest Adventure

This part of the trip is what many travelers dream about. The journey from Shigatse to Everest Base Camp involves crossing high passes like Tsola and Gyatsola, with elevations up to 5,248 meters. The view from Gawula Pass is often described as breathtaking — you might find yourself pausing just to soak it in.

Overnight at Rongpuk or the Nomad Tents (season-dependent) introduces a touch of adventure. Some travelers comment on the comfort levels, but the experience of being so close to Everest is priceless. If weather permits, catching the sunset over Everest is truly awe-inspiring, with glowing peaks that seem to touch the sky.

Early morning on Day 6 offers the possibility of viewing the sunrise at Everest — many reviews highlight how surreal this moment is, with the mountain bathed in golden light. This experience alone makes the trip worthwhile for mountain lovers.

Day 7: Exploring Shigatse

Back in Shigatse, the Tashilunpo Monastery—home to the Panchen Lama—offers a mix of history and spirituality. Visitors note its hillside location and impressive architecture, adding depth to your understanding of Tibetan religious hierarchy.

The drive back to Lhasa along the Friendship Highway offers scenic views of the Yarlung Tsangpo River valley. Travelers often remark how the landscape shifts from rugged mountains to lush valleys, making the long drive rewarding.

Day 8: Departure

The tour ends with your guide and driver escorting you to the airport or railway station. The process is smooth, with airport pickups and drop-offs included. Before leaving, travelers are encouraged to provide feedback, which shows the company’s commitment to service.

Practical Details and Value

Price & Inclusions: At $1,100, this tour offers solid value considering the included accommodation, permits, transportation, and guides. The fact that most travelers book well in advance — averaging 146 days ahead — indicates its popularity.

Transport & Group Size: With a maximum of 12 travelers, the group remains intimate yet lively. The vehicle is licensed and includes gas and parking fees, ensuring a stress-free experience.

Guides & Service: The reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge, with reviewers mentioning Lobsang, Lhakdon, and Beatrice as standout guides who are patient, friendly, and well-informed. Their ability to answer questions and share insights makes the visit much richer.

Accommodation & Meals: Six nights in twin rooms, mostly en suite, provide comfort and ease. Breakfast is included, and many travelers enjoy the local Tibetan dishes. Some mention that the breakfasts could be more varied, but overall, the food is decent and satisfying.

Altitude & Weather: Given the high altitudes involved, travelers should be prepared for possible altitude sickness and chilly mornings, especially at Everest. The tour includes oxygen tanks for emergencies, which is reassuring.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Tibet who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate guided tours and want to see the main sights without worrying about logistics. The itinerary balances cultural visits, natural scenery, and iconic landmarks, making it ideal for those with a limited time in Tibet.

Adventurers who are comfortable with long travel days and high altitudes will find this trip rewarding. It’s also great for those seeking a guided group experience rather than independent travel, especially if this is your first visit to the region.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Due to the high-altitude passes and long days of driving, this tour might pose challenges for travelers with mobility issues. However, guides and staff are attentive to individual needs.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is provided for six days, but lunch and dinner are not included. Travelers often find local Tibetan dishes memorable, though some reviewers wish for more variety at breakfast.

What is the group size?
The tour supports a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a small-group atmosphere with personalized attention.

How are permits handled?
The tour includes the Tibet Tourism Bureau Permit (TTB), which is arranged and delivered by the company. The process typically takes about 12 working days.

Can I book my own accommodation?
If you prefer to stay in your own hotels, you’ll need to meet the group at the scheduled daily hotel, as transfers are only included for the group’s accommodations.

What about altitude sickness?
Altitude is a concern, especially at passes over 5,000 meters. The tour provides oxygen tanks for emergencies, and travelers are advised to acclimatize beforehand and stay hydrated.

Is the itinerary flexible?
While the company reserves the right to change the order of attractions, they strive to stick to the planned schedule. Small program adjustments are possible to meet weather or other conditions.

This 8-day Tibet tour from Great Tibet Tour offers a well-structured, culturally immersive experience that covers Tibet’s most famous sites and stunning landscapes. With experienced guides, comfortable logistics, and a thoughtfully crafted itinerary, it’s an excellent way for first-timers or group travelers to explore Tibet’s spiritual and natural treasures.

While the days can be long and the altitude challenging, the trip’s value is evident in the breathtaking views and enriching cultural encounters. The inclusion of permits, transportation, and selected meals means you can focus on the experience rather than the logistics—making this a convenient, trustworthy choice for a memorable Tibetan adventure.

Ideal for those who want to see Tibet’s highlights without the hassle of independent planning, this tour offers a solid balance of comfort, culture, and awe-inspiring scenery — truly a trip of a lifetime.

Note: Always check current travel advisories and health recommendations, especially regarding altitude and weather, before booking.