Lhasa–Shigatse–Everest Route
A classic progressive route in Tibet from Lhasa via Yamdrok Tso, Karola Glacier, Gyantse and Shigatse to Everest Base Camp via Dingri.
This route leaves Lhasa and passes through Qushui, where you cross Kampa La Pass for views over Yamdrok Tso. Follow the lakeshore to Nangartse, then cross Karola Pass to see the Karola Glacier by the road. Pass Manla Reservoir to reach Gyantse, with Gyantse Dzong and Palcho Monastery, then continue to Shigatse and Tashilhunpo Monastery. From there, follow National Highway 318 through Lhaze and cross Gyatso La (about 5,248 m). At New Dingri (Xegar), turn onto the Everest Highway and cross Gawu La for views of the Himalayan peaks. Descend the “108 bends” into Rongbuk Valley and reach Everest Base Camp. The one-way distance is about 750 kilometers.
The entire route is paved, but the altitude is generally above 4,000 meters, so proper acclimatization is essential. Foreign visitors must hold a Tibet Entry Permit and Border Permit and be accompanied by a licensed guide, so tours are usually arranged as hired-car trips. Chinese visitors may drive themselves, but they must obtain a Border Permit and comply with the vehicle regulations of the Everest Nature Reserve. Usually you must transfer to an eco-shuttle to reach the base camp.
Allow 4–6 days: Lhasa to Gyantse, Gyantse to Shigatse, Shigatse to Dingri, and Dingri to Everest and back. If you have time, you can drive west from Dingri to Lake Peiku and Gyirong Valley, or south from Gyantse to Yadong. Accommodation is limited in winter, and the Everest reserve may close temporarily, so check whether it is open before setting out.