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11-Day Xining to Lhasa Train Tour with Everest Base Camp

From the turquoise mirror of Chaka Salt Lake to the world’s highest railway and the shadow of Everest, this 11-day journey ties together Qinghai’s natural wonders, Tibet’s spiritual heart, and the raw grandeur of the Himalayas.

  • Xining ⇀ Ta'er Monastery ⇀ Qinghai Lake ⇀ Chaka Salt Lake ⇀ Qinghai-Tibet Railway ⇀ Lhasa ⇀ Drepung Monastery ⇀ Sera Monastery ⇀ Potala Palace ⇀ Jokhang Temple ⇀ Barkhor Street ⇀ Yamdrok Lake ⇀ Gyantse ⇀ Shigatse ⇀ Tashilhunpo Monastery ⇀ Everest Base Camp ⇀ Rongbuk Monastery ⇀ Shigatse ⇀ Lhasa
Duration
11 days
Tour Type
Group Tour
Price From
US$1699

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Itinerary

Dates & Prices

FAQ

Experience the best of Qinghai and Tibet on this 11-day adventure, beginning in Xining and ending in the holy city of Lhasa.

Discover Qinghai’s stunning natural landscapes, including the turquoise waters of Qinghai Lake and the surreal Chaka Salt Lake, before boarding the famous Qinghai-Tibet Railway to Lhasa.

Continue exploring Tibet’s spiritual and cultural treasures, from the magnificent Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple to the impressive monasteries of Lhasa. Journey across the spectacular Himalayan plateau to Yamdrok Lake, Shigatse, and Everest Base Camp, where breathtaking mountain scenery and authentic Tibetan culture await.

This itinerary perfectly combines Qinghai’s natural wonders, the legendary Tibet train journey, and Tibet’s most iconic attractions.

Small Group



2-15 Participants

Meal Inclusions

Daily breakfast throughout the tour. One welcome dinner in Lhasa

Attraction Transfers

Tourist vehicle transfers between attractions

Accommodation

Accommodation in 3 -star hotels with breakfast, based on double occupancy

Permits Handled

Tibet Travel Permit for foreign travelers

Activity Level: 3/5

Some extended walking on varied terrains.

Language


English Speaking Local Guide

Itinerary

Xining ⇀ Qinghai Lake ⇀ Chaka Salt Lake ⇀ Qinghai-Tibet Railway ⇀ Lhasa ⇀ Yamdrok Lake ⇀ Shigatse ⇀ Everest Base Camp ⇀ Lhasa

Altitude & Safety

Oxygen supply provided; altitude support, Travel insurance.

Jessie, Founder Experience Tibet

How can we help?

For advice on where to go, what to do and how to choose your perfect tour, talk to our Travel Experts.

How to Book

WhatsApp +86 15828535300
Book online
Plan your Tibet trip with us: Contact us
Wechat ID: experiencetibettour

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11-Day Xining to Lhasa Train Tour with Everest Base Camp

✅ PRICE INCLUDES

√ Tibet Travel Permit application and processing

√ Airport or railway station pickup and drop-off in Xining and Lhasa

√ Train ticket from Xining to Lhasa (soft sleeper, subject to availability)

√ Services of a professional Tibetan English-speaking guide

√ Private transportation throughout the tour in Qinghai and Tibet

√ Accommodation as specified in the itinerary:

  • Xining, Chaka, Lhasa and Shigatse: 3-star hotels with breakfast, based on double occupancy
  • Everest Base Camp: Tent guesthouse

√ Daily breakfast

√Welcome dinner in Lhasa

√ Entrance fees to all attractions listed in the itinerary

√ Travel insurance

√ Complimentary bottled water during the tour

❌ PRICE EXCLUDES

× International and domestic flights

× Additional meals not specified in the itinerary

× Single room supplement for travelers requesting a private room or unable to share

× Tips for the guide and driver (we recommend USD 7 per traveler per day, shared between the guide and driver)

Day 1: Arrival in Xining

Welcome to Xining, the gateway to the Tibetan Plateau. Upon arrival at Xining Caojiabao International Airport, your local guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for rest and acclimatization before your journey begins.

Overnight: Xining

Xining

 

Driving distance: Approx. 450 km | 6–7 hours

After breakfast, visit Ta’er (Kumbum) Monastery, one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug School of Tibetan Buddhism and the birthplace of Tsongkhapa. Continue to Qinghai Lake, China’s largest inland saltwater lake, where you can enjoy spectacular views of its crystal-blue waters surrounded by vast grasslands.

In the afternoon, drive through the scenic plateau landscapes to Chaka Town, the gateway to the famous Chaka Salt Lake.

Overnight: Chaka

Ta er Kumbum Monastery

 

Chaka Salt Lake

 

Qinghai Lake

 

Driving distance: Approx. 300 km | 5 hours

This morning, visit the world-famous Chaka Salt Lake, often referred to as the “Mirror of the Sky.” Walk across the salt flats, admire the breathtaking reflections, and capture unforgettable photographs of this unique natural wonder.

After the visit, return to Xining and transfer to the railway station to board the legendary Qinghai-Tibet Railway. Enjoy an unforgettable overnight train journey across the world’s highest railway.

Overnight: On the Qinghai-Tibet Train

Chaka Salt Lake

xining railway station

Qinghai Tibet Railway train 7

Qinghai Tibet Railway train 6

Qinghai Tibet Railway train 5

Qinghai Tibet Railway train 3

Qinghai Tibet Railway train 4

Arrive in Lhasa (3,650m), the spiritual heart of Tibet. Your Tibetan guide will meet you at the railway station and transfer you to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day resting to help your body acclimatize to the high altitude. Avoid strenuous activities and drink plenty of water.

Overnight: Lhasa

 

Qinghai-Tibet train crossing a high plateau bridge with Potala Palace and Mount Everest in the distance

After breakfast, visit Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world and home to thousands of monks. Explore its impressive assembly halls, chapels, and whitewashed buildings nestled against the hillside.

In the afternoon, continue to Sera Monastery, where you can witness the famous Monks’ Debating Session, one of the most fascinating traditions of Tibetan Buddhist education.

Overnight: Lhasa

 

Drepung Monastery 2

 

Sera Monastery monk debates

Today’s highlights are two of Tibet’s most iconic landmarks. Begin with a visit to the magnificent Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its grand halls, chapels, and priceless Buddhist treasures.

In the afternoon, visit the sacred Jokhang Temple, the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism. Afterwards, stroll through the bustling Barkhor Street, where pilgrims and local merchants create a vibrant Tibetan atmosphere.

Overnight: Lhasa

4-Day Lhasa Holy City Tour​

Jokhang Temple

What to See in Lhasa: Local Markets, Barkhor Street Shopping, Sweet Tea Houses & Where to Eat (Plus Top Sights)

 

Driving distance: Approx. 360 km | 7–8 hours

Travel over the spectacular Gampa La Pass (4,790m) for breathtaking views of the turquoise Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes. Continue through traditional Tibetan farming villages and visit the historic town of Gyantse, home to the famous Pelkor Chode Monastery and Kumbum Stupa.

Arrive in Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city.

Overnight: Shigatse

5-Day Lhasa & Yamdrok Lake Tour

 

Tibet Travel Guide 2025: Best Time, Permits, Tours & Costs

Driving distance: Approx. 340 km | 7–8 hours

After visiting Tashilhunpo Monastery, continue westward through spectacular Himalayan scenery. Cross several high mountain passes before arriving at Everest Base Camp (5,200m). If weather permits, enjoy magnificent views of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest.

As night falls, experience the unforgettable atmosphere beneath the star-filled sky of the Tibetan Plateau.

Overnight: Everest Base Camp Guesthouse

tashilhunpo cuoqin hall

 

Tibet Everest Base Camp Tours: Complete Guide for 2026

Driving distance: Approx. 340 km | 7–8 hours

Wake up early to admire the sunrise over Mount Everest, one of the most memorable moments of the journey. Visit Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world, before beginning the drive back to Shigatse through the spectacular Himalayan landscapes.

Overnight: Shigatse

Everest base camp tour Tibet

 

Rongbuk Monastery

 

Driving distance: Approx. 280 km | 5–6 hours

After breakfast, drive back to Lhasa along the scenic Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley. Enjoy views of Tibetan villages, farmland, and expansive plateau scenery as you return to Tibet’s capital.

The remainder of the day is free for shopping or exploring Barkhor Street at your own pace.

Overnight: Lhasa

Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley 2

 

Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley

 

tibetan villages farm

 

After breakfast, your guide will transfer you to Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station for your onward journey.

Your unforgettable Qinghai and Tibet adventure comes to an end.

All foreign visitors to Tibet are required to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. We handle the entire application process on your behalf — you simply provide your documents.

What you need to submit:

  • 🛂 Tourists with Chinese “L” visa → passport copy + visa copy
  • 🏢 Expats/students/business visitors in China → passport + visa + company or school certificate
  • 🇳🇵 Entering from Nepal → visit the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu (we assist from our local office)

Deadlines:

  • Standard Tibet tours → 10 working days before departure
  • Mt. Kailash tours → 15–20 working days before departure

Once approved, your permit will be sent to you by email or mail. Keep it safe — it will be checked at the airport, train station, and all entry points into Tibet.

Tibet Travel Permit Online Application (2026): Submit Your Request + Application Form

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to process the Tibet Travel Permit?

Typically, it is recommended to apply at least 15-20 days before your planned travel date to ensure ample processing time.)

The best time to visit Tibet is from April to October when the weather is most favorable, with clearer skies and milder temperatures. However, for those looking to experience specific festivals or less crowded seasons, other times of the year can also offer unique advantages.

Yes, vegetarian options are available, especially in larger cities like Lhasa and Shigatse. Hotels typically offer simple Western meals, and vegetarian dishes can be found in local Chinese restaurants or noodle shops in remote areas or small towns during long journeys.

Breakfast at the hotel usually includes simple Western options. In larger cities, you’ll have a wider range of choices, whereas in more remote areas, the selection may be more limited but still satisfying.

4-star hotels generally offer a higher standard of accommodation, with more spacious rooms, additional amenities, and better service compared to 3-star hotels. Both options provide comfortable lodgings, but 4-star hotels may offer a more luxurious experience.

Our tours are designed for small groups, with a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 13 people. This ensures a more personalized and enjoyable travel experience.

Yes, we provide 1L oxygen bottles for each tourist. For destinations further from Lhasa, we also supply medical-grade oxygen canisters, which are more effective than small bottles. It’s also advisable to prepare some altitude sickness medication as a precaution.

Most of our guests choose to fly into Tibet, with many domestic cities offering flights to Lhasa. It’s the quickest way, usually taking 1-3 hours, compared to over 20 hours by train. Train tickets can only be booked 15 days in advance.

Large luggage can be stored in the vehicle or left at hotels during your stay. You’ll only need to carry personal items and anything you might need for the day’s activities.

Here’s a general overview of hotels in Tibet; actual stays may vary depending on the tour and pricing.

Tour Highlights

Discover the heart of Tibetan culture and spirituality with visits to iconic landmarks.

Dates and availability

Book your tibet trip

ExperienceTibet” specializes in small group tours to Tibet, focusing on some of the most sought-after itineraries, ranging from the “4-day Holy City Tour” and “6-day Lhasa to Shigatse” journey, to the extensive 17-Day Mt Kailash & Guge Kingdom Tour from Lhasa

11-Day Xining to Lhasa Train Tour with Everest Base Camp

How to Book

Book online
WhatsApp +86 15828535300
Plan your Tibet trip with us: Contact us
Wechat ID: experiencetibettour
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