Embarking on a 10-day journey from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp (EBC) and Namtso Lake with Tibet Vista was a dream come true for me.

Traveling with a small group of fellow adventurers from around the world, this tour offered a unique blend of breathtaking scenery, cultural experiences, and unforgettable moments. Here’s an honest review, from the booking process to the tour highlights and everything in between.

Combine a Everest Base Camp tour with Namtso lake and the Holy Elephant Gate.

Why I Chose Tibet Vista?

After researching various tour operators, Tibet Vista stood out as the most professional and reliable option. Their website was transparent, and their packages were clear and well-structured. What made my decision final was their excellent customer service.

I communicated with Gemma, the sales representative, via WeChat, and her quick responses and detailed information made me feel confident in my choice.

From answering questions about packing, the best season to visit Tibet, to arranging the Tibet Travel Permit on time, Gemma ensured everything ran smoothly, even during the tour.

The Potala Palace, the most iconic landmark of Tibet.

Planning the Trip: Smooth and Easy

The planning process was seamless, thanks to Gemma. We coordinated everything through WeChat, which was highly convenient. Gemma provided helpful advice about the best time to visit, what to pack, and even helped with last-minute changes to our accommodation at EBC.

The payment process was also straightforward via WeChat or Alipay, making it easy without the additional service fees. Not to mention, Gemma suggested arriving a day early in Lhasa to better acclimate to the altitude, which was a thoughtful and useful recommendation.

However, there were a few things that could be improved. Some of the drives, particularly from Shigatse to EBC, felt a little rushed, and more time at Mt. Everest Base Camp in the morning would have been much appreciated.

The decorated Tibetan yak along the shore of Yamdrok lake.

Tour Highlights: The Best Moments of the Journey

The tour was filled with unforgettable experiences. Here are some of the absolute highlights:

Barkhor Street, Lhasa Tour: A vibrant, culturally rich street full of life, shops, and local Tibetan culture.

Potala Palace: A stunning masterpiece of architecture and Tibetan history. The grandeur and spiritual atmosphere are indescribable.

Everest Base Camp Tour: The ultimate highlight. Standing at the foot of the world’s highest peak is an experience I’ll never forget.

Yamdrok Lake: The picturesque lake, where we had lunch at a local family house. The food and hospitality made this stop unforgettable.

Yak Farmers on the Road: A spontaneous encounter with yak herders that allowed us to take photos and learn about their daily life.

Drepung and Sera Monasteries: The debates between monks at Sera Monastery were a fascinating experience, offering insights into Tibetan Buddhism.

Visiting a local Tibetan family near Yamdrok lake.

Accommodation: Comfort and Surprises

We stayed in a variety of accommodations in Tibet, from 4-star hotels to the guesthouse at EBC. Surprisingly, the Holy Goat Hotel in Damxung (a 3-star hotel) was one of the best, offering modern amenities, oxygen in the room, and a clean environment.

Lhasa Gajiling Hotel (4-star): The beds were comfortable, and breakfast coffee was great, but the room was too hot, and there were mosquitoes. Thankfully, the staff was responsive to our needs. The location was central, and plenty of food options were nearby.

Shigatse Qomolangzong Hotel (4-star): Spacious rooms, a great breakfast, but we had a key issue that required a room change.

Rongbuk Guesthouse at EBC: Given the remote location, the guesthouse exceeded expectations. Oxygen in the room was a lifesaver, though more transparency about accommodation options at EBC (tents vs. guesthouses) would be helpful.

Damxung Holy Goat Hotel (3-star): Clean, modern, and comfortable. Though the area was under construction, the hotel itself was a pleasant surprise.

Tibetan monks in red robes in Jokhang temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet.

Transportation and Dining

The transportation was comfortable overall, with oxygen available on the bus, which helped with acclimatization. The airport pick-up was well-organized, but the airport drop-off at the end of the tour was a little delayed. The bus rides themselves were pleasant, though I’d recommend reducing the group size slightly to provide more space during the longer journeys.

The meals were a mixture of included experiences and optional extras:

Namasté Lhasa: A must-visit for its fantastic food, though it wasn’t included in the tour package.

Yamdrok Lake Family Lunch: This was a memorable stop, with amazing homemade food in a traditional setting.

Local Tibetans have a typical relaxing day under the sky.

Our Guide: Gelek

Gelek, our Tibetan guide, was exceptional. Knowledgeable, friendly, and patient, he maintained a positive atmosphere even while dealing with illness during the last days of the trip. He also skillfully handled a participant who was causing tension within the group. Gelek was always willing to assist with small requests and ensure everyone’s safety and comfort.

However, I did expect more structured group activities (e.g., shared experiences). Our group wasn’t particularly social, which made me wish for more opportunities for team bonding. Perhaps more guided activities could enhance the experience in the future.

Yak tents near the Everest Base Camp for accommodation.

Suggestions for Improvement

While the tour was amazing, here are a few suggestions for improvement:

Clearer Accommodation Information: Provide detailed descriptions of EBC accommodations (types of tents, guesthouses, oxygen supply, and bathroom facilities) before the tour.

Packing Tips: Be sure to inform guests about the eco-bus’s size restrictions for bags to avoid confusion at EBC.

More Scenic Stops: Instead of many small temple stops, consider allocating more time for scenic mountain views, yak herds, and nature stops, especially after long drives.

The stunning blue water of Manla reservoir on the way from Lhasa to Shigatse.

Conclusion: A Trip of a Lifetime

This 10-day journey with Tibet Vista was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. The stunning landscapes, rich Tibetan culture, and the chance to stand at the foot of Everest made this trip truly unforgettable.

Despite a few minor setbacks, the tour exceeded my expectations, and I would highly recommend Tibet Vista to anyone looking to explore Tibet. With some adjustments, this tour could easily be a perfect experience for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

Join our 10 days Lhasa to EBC and Namtso lake tour uncover the natural beauty of Tibet.