Arrive in Lhasa by air. Your small group guide meets you at the airport and transfers you to your hotel. Meet your fellow travelers at a welcome briefing where your guide will introduce the itinerary and provide important information about traveling at high altitude. Rest and acclimatize to the 3,650 meter altitude.

Small group tour of the magnificent Potala Palace with your guide providing in-depth commentary on the history of the Dalai Lamas and the significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Jokhang Temple, the holiest shrine in Tibet built in 647 AD, and walk the Barkhor kora circuit together with your group.

Small group visit to Drepung Monastery, once the world's largest monastery housing up to 10,000 monks, with its whitewashed buildings cascading down the hillside. In the afternoon visit Sera Monastery to witness the famous monks debating session together as a group.

Group scenic drive south from Lhasa across the Karo La Pass at 5,010 meters. Stop at the stunning turquoise Yamdrok Lake for photos. Continue past the Karola Glacier to Gyantse to visit the magnificent Kumbum Stupa with its 108 chapels. Arrive in Shigatse together.

Group visit to Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse featuring the world's largest gilded statue of Maitreya Buddha standing 26 meters tall, cast from 115 tons of brass and gold. Continue south through dramatic mountain scenery to the Gawu La Pass at 5,200 meters for your first breathtaking views of Mount Everest north face rising 8,848 meters into the sky. Arrive at Everest Base Camp for a spectacular sunset over the highest peak on Earth with your small group. Overnight at EBC guesthouse.

Small group sunrise at Mount Everest north face. After breakfast drive back to Shigatse arriving in the afternoon. Take in the unique atmosphere of this remarkable place, where ancient traditions meet the majestic Himalayan landscape. Your guide will share insights into the local culture, history, and significance of each site, helping you connect more deeply with the Tibetan way of life. Remember to stay hydrated, move at a relaxed pace, and bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery and unique moments along the way.

Group drive back to Lhasa from Shigatse along the scenic Yarlung Tsangpo River valley with stops for photography of the dramatic cliffs, traditional farming villages, and the wide river valley. The 280-kilometer drive takes approximately 5 hours with stops. Arrive in Lhasa in the late afternoon and check into your hotel. The evening is free for a farewell dinner with your small group at a traditional Tibetan restaurant.

Group transfer to Lhasa Gonggar Airport for your departure flight. You have explored Tibet's holy sites and stood at the foot of Mount Everest with your small group. Tashi Delek and we hope to welcome you back to explore more of Tibet again!