Kathmandu to Lhasa with Everest Base Camp is one of the most extraordinary overland Himalayan journeys, combining ancient Tibetan culture with the majestic beauty of the world’s highest mountain. This carefully designed adventure takes you from the vibrant capital of Nepal across the vast Tibetan Plateau to the legendary northern face of Mount Everest.
Your journey begins in Kathmandu, where you prepare for an unforgettable cross-border expedition into Tibet. Traveling overland through the Himalayan frontier, you will enter the mystical land often referred to as the “Roof of the World.” As you ascend onto the high plateau, dramatic landscapes unfold—snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, turquoise lakes, and remote nomadic settlements.
The route eventually leads you to Lhasa, the spiritual and cultural heart of Tibet. Once a forbidden city, Lhasa is now a captivating destination where ancient traditions remain alive. During your stay, you will explore its most sacred and historic landmarks, beginning with the magnificent Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. This iconic palace, rising high above the city, symbolizes Tibetan Buddhism and architectural brilliance.
You will also visit the revered Jokhang Temple, the holiest shrine in Tibet, and walk along Barkhor Street, where pilgrims perform their devotional kora (circumambulation). Additional highlights include Sera Monastery, famous for its lively monk debates, and Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in Tibet.
Leaving Lhasa, your scenic drive follows the historic Friendship Highway, one of the most spectacular roads in the Himalayas. Along the way, you will witness the breathtaking beauty of Yamdrok Lake, whose turquoise waters contrast dramatically with the surrounding mountains. Crossing high passes such as Karo La Pass, you will feel the raw power of the Himalayan environment.
Your journey continues through historic Tibetan towns including Gyantse, home to the remarkable Palkhor Monastery and the unique Kumbum Stupa, and Shigatse, where you will explore Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama.
As you approach the Everest region, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic. Vast plains give way to towering Himalayan giants, and soon you will arrive at Rongbuk Monastery, considered one of the highest monasteries in the world. From here, you will witness the awe-inspiring northern face of Mount Everest (Chomolungma), rising majestically above the Tibetan plateau.
A short drive brings you to the newly designated Everest Base Camp on the Tibetan side. Standing at the foot of the mighty Everest, you will experience a profound sense of achievement and admiration for the legendary climbers who once began their expeditions from this very place. The sunrise over Everest from Rongbuk is an unforgettable highlight of the journey.
This Kathmandu to Lhasa with Everest Base Camp tour is a fully overland adventure designed for travelers seeking both cultural immersion and natural grandeur. Accompanied by a professional Tibetan guide and experienced driver, you will travel comfortably in a 4WD vehicle, ensuring safety and flexibility across high mountain passes and remote regions.
Best enjoyed during the dry seasons of spring and autumn, this tour is suitable for travelers in good physical condition who are prepared for high-altitude travel and changing weather conditions.
Nepal New Generation Trek & Adventure Pvt. Ltd. proudly offers this classic Himalayan journey—an inspiring blend of spirituality, history, and breathtaking mountain scenery that will leave you deeply moved long after you return home.
Kathmandu to Lhasa with Everest Base Camp is a remarkable Himalayan journey that connects the cultural treasures of Tibet with the breathtaking grandeur of the world’s highest mountain. This overland adventure begins in Kathmandu and leads you across the dramatic Himalayan frontier into the timeless land of Tibet.
The journey takes you to Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism, where ancient monasteries, sacred temples, and vibrant pilgrimage routes preserve centuries-old traditions. Here, you will explore architectural and spiritual masterpieces such as Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, experiencing the deep cultural essence of Tibet.
Continuing across the vast Tibetan Plateau along the legendary Friendship Highway, the journey gradually unfolds toward the mighty Himalayas. The ultimate highlight is reaching the northern Everest Base Camp near Rongbuk Monastery, where you will stand before the awe-inspiring northern face of Mount Everest (Chomolungma).
This tour perfectly blends cultural exploration, spiritual discovery, and high-altitude adventure, offering travelers a truly classic and unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Seeking for a real adventure? Our travel itinerary is based on years of trekking expertise, ensuring that you have a fun and safe vacation. However, like with all such risky excursions, there may be instances where we must change the schedule, possibly without much notice. While we make every attempt to stick to the timetable, we humbly ask for your patience and flexibility if unforeseen circumstances like weather or unforeseen natural events come into play. You may be sure that our knowledgeable guides will adjust as needed to make your tour as enjoyable as possible.
All airport pick-ups and drop-offs by tourist vehicle
Twin-sharing accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu for 6 nights, including breakfast and all taxes
Twin-sharing accommodation in 3-star hotels in Lhasa, Gyantse and Shigatse for 7 nights, including breakfast and all taxes
Twin-sharing accommodation in a tented guesthouse in Rongbuk for 1 night
Kathmandu-Lhasa-Kathmandu airfare and airport departure tax
All ground transportation in a private tourist vehicle (as per the activities mentioned in the day-by-day itinerary)
All guided city tours in Nepal in a private vehicle (as per the activities mentioned in the day-by-day itinerary)
Sightseeing/monument entrance fees for the Kathmandu tour and sightseeing
Tibet Visa, entry permits, and fees for all temples, parks, monasteries, and cultural and historical sites in Tibet
Ace the Himalaya’s licensed English-speaking tour guide for Nepal and Tibet
The required number of ground staff/helpers for the tour
Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and medicine for our ground staff
Free Ace the Himalaya duffel/kit bag, sunhat, neck gaiter (buff), and trip certificate (yours to keep)
Farewell dinner at a Nepali restaurant in Kathmandu on the last day
All government taxes and official expenses
International airfare to/from Kathmandu
Nepal entry visa fee
Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation
Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, internet, beverages, etc.)
Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Tips for guides, drivers, and support staff
Extra nights’ accommodation due to early arrival, late departure, or flight delays
Additional horse/porter for personal use (beyond included support)
Expenses due to natural calamities, political disturbances, or unforeseen events
Any cost not mentioned under “Cost Includes”
All personal expenses, including bottled drinks (juice, alcoholic drinks, beverages, etc.)
Tips for the Nepali tour leader, Tibetan guide, and drivers
Extra costs for accommodation, meals, transfers, and flight changes in case of early return or delays due to permit and visa issues by the Chinese government or any other uncontrolled reasons
Any additional expenses due to natural calamities, rescues, political unrest, or unforeseen circumstances