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+86 13522069857
(Wechat/Whatapp)103, Unit 9, Yabaoli, Beijing, China
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Any questions, please email or call us!
Why Travel with Discover Beijing Tours
Unique Experiences
Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.Well-Selected Local Guides
Knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and attentive — your personal local guides will share interesting stories, insider information, and even create unexpected highlights!Your Booking is Risk-Free
Cancel up to 24 hours before the travel date in advance for a full refund
10 Days Qinghai-Tibet Railway Tour from Xining to Lhasa & Everest Base Camp
10 days
The Qinghai-Tibet Railway originates at Xining West Railway Station and terminates at Lhasa Railway Station. Taking the train from Xining is the fastest way to experience the premier Tibet train journey—there’s even a popular Chinese song titled Take a Train to Lhasa. Let the beautiful melody accompany your 21.5-hour train ride from Xining to Lhasa as you soak in the stunning scenery of the Tibetan Plateau. Join our 10-Day Qinghai-Tibet Railway Tour (Xining to Lhasa) for a panoramic Tibet adventure that includes Mount Everest Base Camp, promising an unforgettable trip to the “Roof of the World.”
Tibet is every traveler’s dream. Beyond the highlights of the Xining-Lhasa Qinghai-Tibet Railway journey, this tour covers Tibet’s top three cities—Lhasa, Gyantse, and Shigatse—plus must-visit attractions: Potala Palace (the Dalai Lamas’ Winter Palace), Jokhang Temple (Tibet’s spiritual heart), Barkhor Street (the sacred circumambulation route), Sera Monastery (renowned for monk debates), Drepung Monastery (one of Tibet’s three great Gelug university monasteries), Yamdrok Lake (one of Tibet’s three holy lakes), Karola Glacier (filming location of Red Valley), and Pelkor Monastery (famous for the 100-Thousand-Buddha Pagoda).
Following these, challenge yourself with a leisurely hike from Rongpuk Monastery to Mount Everest Base Camp (EBC, 5,200m) on the Tibetan Plateau. Camp beneath a sky full of stars and enjoy breathtaking views of the north face of Mount Qomolangma (Everest, 8,848m).
This 10-Day Classic Tibet Train Tour (Xining to Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, and EBC) showcases Tibet’s natural wonders and rich Tibetan Buddhist culture at the best value with top-tier service!
Itinerary Quick Look
Day 1: Arrival in Xining | Airport/Train Station Transfer & Hotel Check-In
Nihao! Welcome to Xining—the starting point of the legendary Qinghai-Tibet Railway! Upon your arrival at Xining Caojiabao International Airport or Xining Railway Station, your dedicated tour guide and driver will greet you at the exit and escort you to a carefully selected downtown hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and acclimate—whether you need to recover from jet lag or explore the neighborhood at your leisure.
Arrival Guide:
As the capital of Qinghai Province, Xining boasts excellent connectivity via air and high-speed rail:
- By Air: Xining Caojiabao International Airport operates numerous domestic and international flights, with direct routes to major Chinese cities including Beijing (2.5hrs), Xi’an (1.5hrs), Chengdu (1.5-2hrs), Shanghai (3hrs), Lhasa (2.5hrs), and Hangzhou (3hrs).
- By High-Speed Rail: Convenient rail links connect Xining to Xi’an (5.5-6hrs), Lanzhou (2.5-3.5hrs), Chengdu (10.5hrs), and beyond.
Free Time Tips:
Feel free to consult your guide for personalized recommendations to make the most of your free time, tailored to your interests and schedule.
Day 2: Xining → Lhasa via Qinghai-Tibet Railway | Train Boarding & Scenic Journey
This morning, your local guide will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Xining Railway Station to board the Qinghai-Tibet Railway train bound for Lhasa. Important Note: Please ensure you carry your Tibet Travel Permit, as it will be verified during boarding.
The train journey unfolds as a visual masterpiece, offering front-row seats to the Tibetan Plateau’s breathtaking landscapes. Settle into a window seat and watch as snow-capped Himalayan peaks, glistening alpine lakes, grassy plains dotted with yaks and nomadic tents, and vast barren deserts unfold before you. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife—antelopes, foxes, wild asses, and the occasional nomad traversing the plains—as the train gradually climbs to the high plateau.
Useful Qinghai-Tibet Railway Tips:
- Accommodation Options: The train offers four classes of seating/sleeping berths: soft sleeper, hard sleeper, soft seat, and hard seat.
- Dining: Onboard dining cars serve a variety of Chinese and Tibetan dishes. For those with specific tastes, feel free to bring instant meals or snacks.
- Toilets: Each soft sleeper carriage is equipped with both Western-style and squat toilets. Please bring your own towels, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.
- Oxygen Supply: The train is fitted with oxygen systems to assist passengers in acclimating to the high altitude of the Tibetan Plateau.
Day 3: Arrival in Lhasa | Transfer & Hotel Check-In
Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region! Upon arriving at Lhasa Railway Station, your guide and driver will greet you and escort you to your downtown hotel (100km, approximately 1.5 hours’ drive). Spend the rest of the day resting and acclimating to the altitude (3,650m) in preparation for your Lhasa exploration tomorrow.
Important Altitude Acclimation Reminders:
- To avoid altitude sickness, take it slow, keep warm, drink plenty of water, avoid showers for the first 1-2 days, and ensure adequate rest.
- Consult your doctor beforehand regarding altitude-related precautions based on your health condition.
- Immediately inform your guide or hotel staff if you feel unwell—they are experienced in handling altitude sickness and are ready to assist.
Day 4: Lhasa City Tour | Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery & Barkhor Street
Today, immerse yourself in Lhasa’s spiritual and cultural heart with visits to three iconic sites: Jokhang Temple (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Sera Monastery (famous for its monk debates), and Barkhor Street (Tibet’s sacred circumambulation route).
Jokhang Temple
Nestled in the center of Lhasa for over 1,300 years, Jokhang Temple is a revered pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide and the spiritual soul of Tibet. Legend has it that the temple was built by King Songtsen Gampo to honor his two brides: Princess Wencheng of China and Princess Bhrikuti of Nepal. The name “Jokhang” translates to “House of Buddha,” and the temple houses a life-size statue of the 12-year-old Sakyamuni Buddha—one of the most sacred relics in the Buddhist world, drawing pilgrims from far and wide.
Admire the temple’s architectural brilliance: intricate carvings, vibrant murals, ornate decorations, and exquisite details that make it a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. Witness the timeless devotion of pilgrims praying day and night in front of the temple, a scene that feels suspended in time. Note: The visiting order may be adjusted based on Jokhang Temple ticket reservation availability.
Sera Monastery
In the afternoon, drive 30km (50 minutes) to Sera Monastery—one of Tibet’s three great Gelugpa university monasteries—offering an intimate glimpse into Tibetan Buddhism. The highlight of the visit is the daily monk debates, held from approximately 15:00 to 17:00 (except Sundays). This dynamic form of religious exchange involves one monk standing as the questioner, while the responder(s) sit. The standing monk asks questions, slapping his palms and stomping his feet—gestures with symbolic meanings (such as awakening wisdom) rather than aggression. You’ll also have the chance to observe prayer ceremonies, explore meditation halls, and learn about monastic life—making it an essential stop to deepen your understanding of Tibetan Buddhist beliefs and practices.
Barkhor Street
Afterward, return to downtown Lhasa to wander Barkhor Street, a bustling thoroughfare adjacent to Jokhang Temple. Originally a sacred kora (pilgrim circuit), it has evolved into a vibrant local market where tradition and modernity converge. Sip a pot of creamy yak butter tea, dress in traditional Tibetan attire for photos, or browse stalls offering Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian handicrafts, souvenirs, and local specialties. Immerse yourself in the daily life of Tibetans as they circumambulate the street, spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras.
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Lhasa
Day 5: Lhasa City Tour | Potala Palace & Drepung Monastery
Today, delve into Lhasa’s royal and spiritual legacy with visits to two iconic sites: the Potala Palace— the world’s highest palace, a masterpiece of architecture, culture, and history— and Drepung Monastery, one of Tibet’s “Great Three” Gelugpa university monasteries.
Potala Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
In the morning, step into the Potala Palace, the traditional residence and winter palace of the Dalai Lamas (1649-1959). Ascend 365 steps from the palace gate to reach the Red Palace, perched at an altitude of 3,700 meters— making it the highest palace on Earth. Wander through its grand halls, chapels, and shrines dedicated to past Dalai Lamas, and be captivated by the exquisite paintings, glittering jeweled artworks, intricate carvings, and vibrant decorations. Each treasure tells a mysterious story, blending spiritual significance with artistic brilliance.
Amidst the palace’s sacred halls, you’ll encounter Tibetan pilgrims who have traveled far and wide to pay homage— this site is the culmination of their lifelong spiritual journey. Ask your guide to share tales of King Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd ruler of Tibet, who first constructed the Potala Palace in the 7th century to welcome his bride, Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty.
Important Notes:
- The visiting order may be adjusted based on your Potala Palace ticket’s scheduled time.
- All visitors must explore the Potala Palace as part of a guided group, with a maximum stay of 1 hour.
- Photography is strictly prohibited inside the palace.
Drepung Monastery
Subsequently, drive 12 kilometers (approximately 35 minutes) to Drepung Monastery— once the largest Gelugpa monastery in Lhasa and the former residence of the Dalai Lama before his move to the Potala Palace in the 17th century. Today, it is famous for the annual Drepung Shoton Festival (held in August), where locals offer yogurt to monks who have completed 100 days of meditation, culminating in the grand Thangka Unfolding Ceremony— a spectacle not to be missed.
Beyond its unique architecture, Drepung Monastery offers the chance to witness lively Tibetan Buddhist monk debates. These dynamic exchanges involve expressive gestures, clapping, and stomping— each movement carrying symbolic meaning, such as invoking wisdom. After exploring the monastery, immerse yourself in a 2-hour Tibetan cultural experience, including an introduction to Tibetan traditions, hands-on Tibetan incense making, and block printing.
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Lhasa
Day 6: Lhasa → Shigatse (3,850m) via Gyantse (3,950m) | Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier & Pelkor Monastery
Embark on a scenic 7.5-hour drive (270 kilometers) from Lhasa to Shigatse, passing through Gyantse. Along the way, discover two natural wonders— Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier— before exploring Pelkor Monastery in Gyantse. Conclude the day in Shigatse for an overnight stay.
Yamdrok Lake
In the morning, journey to Kampala Pass (4,797 meters), where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Yamdrok Lake— a crystal-clear freshwater lake— and the distant sacred peak of Mt. Nyenchen Khangsar (7,206 meters). Regarded as one of Tibet’s four great sacred lakes (alongside Lhamo Latso, Manasarovar, and Namtso), Yamdrok Lake is believed by Tibetans to guide the search for the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation.
At the lake, you’ll encounter locals with elaborately adorned Tibetan mastiffs, goats, and yaks. For a small fee (5-10 yuan), you can pose for photos with these animals— a modest source of income for local families.
Karola Glacier
Next, visit Karola Glacier— one of Tibet’s most stunning glaciers and a filming location for the movie Red Valley (Hong He Gu). As one of Tibet’s three major continental glaciers, it nestles at the southern foot of Mt. Naiqin Kangsang (7,191 meters), one of Tibet’s four highest peaks, and serves as the eastern source of the Nianchu River. Perched at 5,012 meters above sea level, the glacier is just 300 meters from the Lhasa-Gyantse highway— visible from your car or via a short walk to its base, where its frozen waterfall-like shape towers above the road. On the opposite side of the highway, admire the snow-capped peaks of Mt. Kalurong.
Karola Glacier Visiting Tips:
- The scenic area’s altitude is approximately 5,012 meters— take it slow to avoid altitude sickness.
- Public toilets at the glacier are basic.
- Locals may request a fee for photos— always ask permission first to avoid misunderstandings.
Pelkor Monastery (Palcho Monastery)
Continue along the Tibet-Nepal Friendship Highway to Gyantse— Tibet’s third-largest city after Lhasa and Shigatse— to visit Pelkor Monastery. With a history spanning over 600 years, this significant Tibetan Buddhist site embraces multiple sects, including Gelugpa, Sakyapa, and Kadampa. Its architecture is a stunning fusion of Tibetan, Nepalese, and Han Chinese styles.
The monastery’s centerpiece is the Kumbum Stupa (Gyangtse Kumpum)— a nine-story tower adorned with thousands of Buddha and Bodhisattva statues, said to be the largest of its kind in Tibet. Climb to the top of the stupa for panoramic views of Gyantse and distant Gyantse Fortress (Gyantse Dzong), and witness monks performing daily rituals and prayers.
After exploring the monastery, drive 90 kilometers to Shigatse for your overnight stay.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch included
Accommodation: Shigatse
Day 7: Shigatse (3,850m) → Rongpuk Monastery (5,100m) | Gyawu La Pass & Rongpuk Monastery
This morning, embark on an 8-hour drive (340 kilometers) from Shigatse to Rongpuk Monastery, making a stop at Gyawu La Pass (5,200 meters) along the way.
Gyawu La Pass (5,200m)
After 4.5 hours of driving (240 kilometers) from Shigatse, reach Gyawu La Pass— located between Lhatse and Shelkar— where you’ll catch your first glimpse of Mt. Everest (Qomolangma). Marvel at the snow-capped peak towering above the horizon, alongside the winding “road to the end of the world” that snakes through the landscape. Keep an eye out for locals biking or hiking toward Everest Base Camp— for them, reaching the foot of the world’s highest mountain is a sacred goal worth every effort.
Take time to soak in the pass’s breathtaking scenery: endless grasslands, snow-capped mountain ranges, a vivid blue sky, and drifting clouds.
Rongpuk Monastery (5,100m)
Continue your journey for another 3.5 hours (122 kilometers) to Rongpuk Monastery— the world’s highest monastery and the premier spot to view the north face of Mt. Everest (the “Third Pole of the Earth”). Home to both monks and nuns, this spiritual site is a haven for travelers seeking tranquility and stunning photography.
Originally a cluster of meditation huts, the monastery is surrounded by 400-year-old hermitage caves carved into the cliff walls. On clear days, witness the magnificent sunset casting a golden glow over Everest’s steep north face— the humble stupa at the monastery is the same iconic landmark featured in countless postcards and posters of the mountain.
Overnight in a tent guesthouse at Rongpuk Monastery or near Everest Base Camp (EBC). Venture out after dark to experience a celestial display of stars— a sight that will leave you in awe.
Important Notes:
- Travelers are now permitted to visit the Rongpuk Monastery area (rather than the former EBC site a few kilometers further)— the view of Mt. Everest remains equally spectacular.
- Accommodation and dining facilities are basic due to the high altitude. Altitude sickness symptoms may occur— stay well-hydrated, relax, and focus on the stunning scenery to alleviate discomfort.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch included
Accommodation: Tent guesthouse at Rongpuk Monastery/EBC area
Day 8: Rongpuk Monastery → Everest Base Camp (EBC) → Shigatse | Everest Sunrise
Rise early to chase the legendary sunrise over Mount Everest— a sight that will take your breath away (note: sunrise typically begins between 6:30-7:00 AM, weather permitting). After breakfast, embark on a leisurely hike around Rongpuk Monastery and make your way to Everest Base Camp (EBC, 5,200m)— the closest point accessible to regular tourists to gaze upon the world’s highest summit. Take your time to soak in the awe-inspiring views of Mount Everest (8,848m), standing tall and majestic against the clear blue sky.
Subsequently, begin your journey back to Shigatse (3,850m) via a well-paved road. En route, make a second stop at Gyawu La Pass (5,200m) for another chance to admire Mount Everest. On clear days, you’ll be treated to a rare panoramic view of four 8,000-meter-plus peaks: Mount Makalu, Mount Lhotse, Mount Everest, and Mount Cho-Oyu— a lineup of giants that will leave you spellbound. Overnight in Shigatse.
Travel Notes:
- For those seeking a deeper adventure: If you’re interested in trekking to EBC from Old Tingri, we offer a customizable 4-day trek along a relatively flat, open, and safe route. Suitable for almost all travelers (including children without severe altitude sickness), this 70km journey (averaging 18km per day) lets you walk on the world’s highest trekking trail and fulfill the dream of standing face-to-face with Mount Everest. Contact us to tailor this once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience.
- About “Everest Base Camp (EBC)”: For regular tourists, EBC refers to the accessible area near Rongpuk Monastery. Located approximately 20km as the crow flies from Everest’s summit, this spot offers unobstructed views of the peak on clear days.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch included
Accommodation: Shigatse
Day 9: Shigatse → Lhasa | Tashilunpo Monastery
Start your day early with a visit to Tashilunpo Monastery— a spiritual gem of Shigatse— before embarking on a 5-hour drive (270km) back to Lhasa.
Founded in 1447 by Gyalwa Gedun Drup, the 1st Dalai Lama, Tashilunpo Monastery is the traditional seat of the successive Panchen Lamas— Tibet’s second-highest religious incarnation. Explore the ancient stupas (chortens) housing the relics of the 4th and 10th Panchen Lamas, and gain profound insights into the history and significance of the Panchen and Dalai Lamas from your guide. Admire the exquisite religious paintings adorning the monastery’s architecture, listen to the resonant chants of local monks, and even join locals in the sacred kora (circumambulation) around the monastery. Don’t miss the chance to hike to the top of the monastery for a stunning bird’s-eye view of both the complex and Shigatse City.
After the monastery tour, hit the road back to Lhasa. Along the way, stop at scenic viewing platforms to take in the breathtaking landscapes of Tibet’s countryside. Upon arrival in Lhasa, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Note: An optional high-speed train ride back to Lhasa from Shigatse is available— inquire with your guide for details.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch included
Accommodation: Lhasa
Day 10: Lhasa Departure | Hotel Check-Out & Airport/Train Station Send-Off
Your unforgettable 10-day Xining-Tibet journey comes to an end today. Your guide will escort you to Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station for your onward flight or high-speed train to your next destination.
Extension Opportunities:
If you wish to extend your exploration of Tibet, we offer tailor-made extensions to iconic destinations such as Namtso Lake (one of Tibet’s three holy lakes), Mount Kailash (a sacred peak for multiple religions), and Gyirong Port (a gateway to Nepal). Share your preferences with us, and we’ll craft the perfect extended itinerary for you.
Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Tibet adventure. We are committed to creating memorable journeys, and we look forward to welcoming you back for your next exploration of China and Asia. Safe travels!
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: N/A
Discount available at low season, please send inquiries!
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IncludedProfessional licensed English-speaking local guidePrivate Vehicle: Experienced drivers & air-conditioned vehiclesHotel accommodation with breakfasts (3-star standard)Meals: Breakfasts plus featured meals - Tibetan welcome banquet in Lhasa & The world’s highest altitude hot pot experience at EBC (if you take the tour to EBC).Admission tickets, activities listed in the itineraryTibet Permits: Tibet Entry Permit, Alien Travel Permit, Border Pass, etc.Pick up and Drop off Service: The pick up and drop off service are free from 7:00am to 22:00pm on the pick up and drop off date.Oxygen and Water: A container of Oxygen per person for emergency use; 2 bottles of drinking water per person per day (300ml); 4L Medical oxygen cylinder with carOur service from tour planning, handling, operational and finishing your trip
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Not IncludedInternational airfaresEntry visa feesPersonal expensesSingle room supplementRecommended optional activitiesArrival/departure flights or train on the first and last dayTips or gratuities for guides and drivers
