If you're an adventurer with dreams of climbing or trekking Mount Everest, you're in the right place. In this ultimate guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about trekking to the summit of the world's highest mountain from the Tibetan side.

Whether you're a seasoned mountaineer or a first-time trekker, we've got you covered. From permits to gear, routes to altitude sickness, this guide is your one-stop-shop for planning the ultimate Everest adventure. So, let's dive in and get started!

Why Climbing Everest from Tibetan Side?

There are two ways to climb Everest: from Nepal or the Tibetan side. While climbing the mountain from Nepal is a popular route for experienced mountaineers, the Tibetan side has easier access to the base camp. The drive from Lhasa to the base camp is shorter and less strenuous than the trek from Lukla to the Nepal side base camp.

Furthermore, the northern route from the Tibetan side is less difficult and less crowded than that of the Nepalese side. The standard route on the Tibetan side involves less steep and technical climbing, and there are fewer climbers attempting the mountain from this side, which can make for a quieter and more peaceful climbing experience.

Moreover, climbing Everest from the Tibetan side offers a different perspective. Tibet abounds with holy mountains and beautiful lakes, allowing trekkers to explore the diverse landscape of this mysterious land. From the base camp, you can clearly view Mount Everest and appreciate the Rongbuk Glacier, among other sights.

Permits for Climbing Everest from Tibet

If you plan to climb Everest from Tibet, there are four permits that you need to obtain depending on your intended destination on the mountain:

Tibet Travel Permit - for All Tibet Tours

The Tibet Travel Permit is the primary permit for entering and traveling around Tibet and is required for all Tibet tours. Without it, you cannot even board a flight or train to Tibet. To obtain this permit, you need to book a Tibet tour with an experienced travel agency like us. Just provide us with a photocopy of your passport and Chinese visa, and we will handle the rest of the permit application process for you.

Aliens' Travel Permit - for Trekking to EBC in Tibet

You are required to obtain an Aliens' Travel Permit if you plan to visit the "unopened areas" of Tibet, including Everest Base Camp and areas beyond Lhasa city. We can assist you in obtaining this permit as well. Upon your arrival in Lhasa, our tour guide will apply for the permit on your behalf using your Tibet Travel Permit and passport copies. The process is usually completed within 1.5 hours.

Tibet Trekking Permit - for trekking from EBC to ABC in Tibet

To trek from EBC (5,200m) to ABC (6,400m-6,500m), you require a Tibet Trekking Permit. Your tour guide can assist you in submitting the permit application to the Tibet Mountaineering Association (TMA). However, the Tibet Trekking Permit service was canceled in April 2018 due to environmental concerns, and it is unclear when it will be resumed. Rest assured, we will promptly inform you if this changes.

Everest Climbing Permit - for climbing Mt. Everest in Tibet

Every year, many climbers from around the world embark on a journey to reach the summit of Mount Everest. If you plan to summit Mount Everest from Tibetan side, you must book commercial Mt. Everest climbing and expedition tours organized by the Tibet Mountaineering Association (TMA). The TMA is responsible for issuing the Everest Climbing Permit that you will need to climb the mountain.

Routes for Climbing Everest from Tibet

When visiting Mt. Everest in Tibet, there are three trekking and climbing options available. The first option is to take the exciting and scenic trek from Old Tingri to EBC. The second option is a shorter climb to the Advanced Base Camp, which is located at an altitude of over six thousand meters. Finally, you can also challenge the roped northern route to the summit.

Trek from Old Tingri to Everest Base Camp

The trek from Old Tingri to EBC is one of the best treks in Tibet, with altitudes ranging from 4,400 meters to 5,200 meters. While it is not as hard as other long treks in the plateau region, it is arduous enough at this high altitude. Covering a distance of around 70 kilometers over four days, the trek takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes and scenery in the Qomolangma National Nature Reserve.

The trek starts at Old Tingri, on the G318 Friendship Highway, and heads south through Rachu and Lungthang to the first campsite at Danak. From there, you head up to the Lamna La Pass at 5,150 meters, and down the other side to the village of Zommug, where you stop for the second night. In the morning, you will make the leg of the trek to Rongbuk Monastery, where you will get to tour the gompa and stay the night in the monastery guesthouse, before completing the last leg of the trek to EBC in the morning of the final day.

Trek from Everest Base Camp to Advanced Base Camp

Recognized as the highest trek in the world, the Mount Everest Advanced Base Camp Trek is an amazing experience of trekking at extreme altitudes. The trek is not an easy hike like some of the treks in Tibet and Nepal, though it is also not an attempt to reach the summit. The Advanced Base Camp sits at an altitude of around 6,500 meters, and lies just below the North Col, being Camp III for those climbing to the summit.

The trekking route starts from EBC at 5,180 meters, and heads up over the glacial moraine of the Rongbuk Glacier, following the same route that is taken by mountaineers to the summit. The first stop is at Camp 1, and then it is on to the Intermediate Camp. The Intermediate Camp for this trek lies at an altitude of 5,800 meters, just below the Mountaineering Camp II, and in clear sight of the summit of Mount Changtse, which looms above the campsite.

From there, the push on the second day is all the way up to Camp 2, from where you will make the final push to the Advanced Base Camp and back on the following day. The Advanced Camp lies alongside the East Rongbuk Glacier. The descent from Camp 2 is done after spending the night in the tents, and as the sun rises, you get a great view of the North Col above you, and can clearly see the East Ridge Route of Mount Everest and the stunning sight of the East Rongbuk Glacier. On the descent, you will head straight back to EBC without stopping at Camp 1 along the way.

Climb Mount Everest from North Route in Tibet

The climb to the top of Mount Everest starts at the Everest Base Camp at 5,200 meters, which lies just below the Rongbuk Glacier. The Everest Base Camp at Rongbuk is the furthest destination that ordinary tourists can travel to Mount Everest. From there, climbers will climb to Camp II at 6,100 meters. The next step takes you up to Camp III at 6,500 meters, and Camp IV is on the North Col at 7,010 meters, which is reached by climbing over the glacier and using fixed ropes to ascend the rock face to the camp.

From here, climbers must ascend the rocky north ridge to get to Camp V, which lies at an altitude of 7,775 meters, and for Camp VI, the route crosses the North Face in a diagonal climb to reach the base of the Yellow Band at 8,230 meters.

The final push to the summit starts at Camp VI and must be reached and returned to the camp within a day, as climbers cannot survive overnight on the summit, at an elevation of 8,848 meters. The route is a straight run up the final ridge, over the first and second Steps to the peak, which can normally be completed in around 4-5 hours in good weather.

Best Time to Climb Everest from Tibet

Weather conditions on Mount Everest can be unpredictable, so it's important to carefully choose the best time to trek.

For those planning to trek from Old Tingri to EBC, the ideal period is from April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is dry and sunny, with cooler temperatures than in the summer, and there is less rainfall. Clear skies allow for spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains.

However, if you trek during the summer season, there is no need to worry excessively about the rain. The rain is typically not too heavy and mainly falls in the late afternoon or at night, leaving your journey to EBC mostly uninterrupted. However, it's still important to keep an eye on the weather forecast.

For those planning to trek from EBC to ABC or attempt to climb Mount Everest, the recommended time is from April to May and September to October. These months offer the most comfortable temperatures, less rainfall, and excellent visibility. You'll also have the opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Rongbuk Glacier, one of China's most beautiful glaciers, with its undulating snow peaks that are sharp, holy, and white.

Preparing for Climbing Everest from Tibet

If you are preparing for Climbing Everest from Tibet, there are some tips for you.

Choosing a reputable Tibet tour operator

As many preparations need to be made before your climb, it's best to choose a reputable Tibet tour operator to help you with hassle-free travel. As a local Tibetan travel agency, we have organized EBC tours in Tibet, including trekking to EBC from Tibet. We provide seasoned local guides with quality service, making us the best choice for climbing Everest from Tibet.

Pack necessary equipment and gear

Climbing Everest is a challenging task that requires extensive preparation. Make sure to pack down jackets, climbing boots, an ice axe, water bottles, and climbing bags. Don't forget to bring your camera and carry sunscreen and sunglasses. Additionally, prepare high-calorie foods and plenty of water.

Prepare for altitude sickness and harsh weather

Altitude sickness is a serious concern when climbing Everest. To prevent it, take health care products that improve the blood's oxygen absorption ability. As there is a chance of thunderstorms, gales, and snow, be prepared for harsh weather conditions by keeping warm and replenishing heat.

Train for the physical fitness requirements

Climbing Everest requires a high level of physical fitness due to rising elevations and extreme weather. It's recommended to exercise three or four weeks in advance, by jogging or climbing every day.

Conclusion

Trekking or climbing Mount Everest is an incredible accomplishment that will stay with you for a lifetime. We hope this ultimate guide has been helpful in preparing you for the challenge of trekking to Mount Everest from the Tibetan side.

And if you're looking for a tour company that can help you make your Everest dreams a reality, we are here to help. Contact us now and let us help you plan the ultimate Everest adventure that you will never forget!