Venture into the western realms of Tibet, where the majestic Mount Everest reigns supreme. With its northern base camp in Tibet, this world-renowned peak beckons travelers seeking grandeur in the shadows of its looming height.
A mere 343 kilometers away from it lay Shigatse, the ancient city and gateway to Chomolungma Nature Park. Enveloped in history and home to the revered Tashilhunpo Monastery, Shigatse sets the stage for an unforgettable journey to the Everest Base Camp, promising a fusion of spirituality and natural splendor for every adventurer's soul.
Shigatse to Everest Base Camp: How Far and How to Reach EBC?
Though the aerial distance (direct distance not including any geographical obstacles) between Shigatse to the summit of Mt. Everest is 243 kilometers, if you measure the traveling distance by the road route from Shigatse City Center to the EBC, it stretches around 343 kilometers.
Since EBC Tibet is the only base camp that can be accessed by road all the way, apart from a trekking route from Tingri, it opens up the experience of Mt. Everest to tourists who are not trekkers or climbers. That is why road-tripping is one of the most recommended ways to travel from Shigatse to Tibetan EBC.
Visiting the Everest Base Camp in Tibetan side
Shigatse to Tibet EBC by road (the most recommended way)
The scenic drive of 343 kilometers from Shigatse to Tibet EBC is generally divided into two stretches. The first 243 kilometers take you along the renowned G318 National Highway, also called the Friendship Highway in Tibet.
The road conditions are pretty good, as the previous "washboard road" has been updated with current asphalt roads making for a smoother and more comfortable drive. However, the speed limit is 40km per hour, so the journey takes around 6 hours, including stopping for lunch and photo-ops.
The road from Shigatse to EBC is now well-paved.
Beyond Tingri, the final stretch of your trip covers a 100-kilometer distance to Everest Base Camp. The route is generally good and has been paved with asphalt, suitable for driving. The journey takes about 2 to 3 hours. As you approach the Gawula Pass, be prepared for a winding highway with sharp turns.
Shigatse to Tingri and then Trekking to EBC (for Trekking Lovers)
Offering a safer, shorter, and scenic route, trekking to Everest Base Camp in Tibet makes it a top choice for adventurers. To start the trekking, reach Tingri from Shigatse by road, as mentioned above.
One can also travel to Tingri and then trek to EBC.
The EBC trail begins from Old Tingri, with the route spanning around 70 kilometers of the high-elevation region of Tibet. Spread over 4 days, the hike takes you through valleys, over passes like Lamna La Pass at 5150 meters, stunning landscapes, unique monuments, the tranquil village of Zombuk, etc.
From there, you'll continue to the renowned Rongbuk Monastery, the world's highest monastery, standing against the backdrop of Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak.
The Lamna La pass on the route from Tingri to EBC trek
Shigatse to Everest Base Camp: What are the Must-see Attractions along the Way?
The epic road trip from Shigatse to Everest Base Camp is no less than a Tibetan treasure hunt studded with sparkling cultural gems and awe-inspiring natural wonders of all kinds!
Prepare to be mesmerized by revered monasteries, snap selfies with monumental highway markers, and spike up your adrenaline with jaw-dropping views of the mighty Himalayas. Below is a list of must-visits:
Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse: A revered spiritual center
Explore the largest monastery in Tsang Area, founded by the first Dalai Lama, and admire its unique architecture and historic sites.
Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse city
G318 National Highway Monument: Commemorating the iconic highway
Capture a historic selfie at the 5,000-kilometer mark to celebrate China’s second-longest national highway that stretches a total distance of 5476 kilometers from east to west.
G318 National Highway Monument
Sakya Monastery: A historical and cultural gem
On the way to Old Tingri, visit this striking monastery, once the seat of power in Tibet, and marvel at the Mongolian architecture of Lhakang Chempo.
Sakya Monastery on the way to Tingri
Gawula Pass: Stunning vistas of the Himalayas
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Mount Everest and four other Himalayan peaks above 8,000 meters while relishing the thrill of the winding descent.
Views of the Himalayas from Gawula Pass
Rongbuk Monastery and Everest Base Camp: Witness the world’s highest peak
Meditate in the caves where monks once sought enlightenment, and savor the best views of Mount Everest, especially during sunrise.
Views of Mount Everest from Rongbuk Monastery
How to Get to Shigatse, by Driving, Train and Flight?
If you are wondering how to get to Shigatse and experience the majestic Everest Base Camp, there are three exciting options to choose from:
Drive from Lhasa to Shigatse: The most popular and leisurely way is by car or tour vehicle, offering the luxury of stopping at various attractions along the modern highways of Tibet, such as Shigatse, Lake Yamdrok, and Gyantse.
Traveling from Lhasa to Shigatse by road
Take the Lhasa to Shigatse Train: Known as the "Tangzhu Ancient Route Train," this railway journey covers 248km between Lhasa and Shigatse within three hours, offering convenience for those short on time or not new to Tibet. But there will be a major missing out on the picturesque road attractions.
Shigatse Railway Station
Fly from Lhasa to Shigatse: The Shigatse Tingri Airport is the closest airport to Mt. Everest, located approximately 33 kilometers east of Tingri Town. After alighting, another drive of 52 km will take you straight to EBC. This has reduced the journey duration significantly and made it an ideal option for limited-time travelers.
Shigatse Tingri Airport
What Permits to Prepare before the Trip?
For a hassle-free EBC experience, you will need a couple of permits before you go: the Tibet Travel Permit and the Alien's Travel Permit.
The Tibet Travel Permit is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau that needs to be applied through a local travel agency at least 20 days before your trip. The Alien's Travel Permit permits visits to restricted regions like Everest Base Camp. Unlike the Tibet Travel Permit, it is easier to obtain. It can be applied for at the Foreign Affairs Office in Shigatse with the help of your Tibet tour guide.
Tibet travel permit is necessary to enter Tibet for travel.
For trekkers and mountaineers who wish to explore beyond Everest Base Camp, additional permits like the Tibet Trekking Permit and Mountaineering License are required.
For reliable paperwork and permits, consider booking your Everest Base Camp tour through a trustworthy local travel agency like us. Apply in advance to secure all these on time. We'll handle all the permit applications, accommodation, and logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying Mount Everest.
When is the Best Time to Go?
You can take a Mount Everest Base Camp tour in Tibet any time of the year. In every season, Mt. Everest dazzles you with different beauty of it. You can experience changing views and sceneries along the way.
However, the most recommended time falls between April to June (spring season) and September to November (autumn season). From April to June, the weather is warmer, and the days are longer, allowing for more exploration. The valley is filled with blooming flowers and lush greenery, making it the ideal time for the EBC tour and trekking.
Spring and autumn are the best time to visit the Everest Base Camp.
From September to November, the monsoon season recedes, bringing constant sunshine and clear skies. The Everest peak becomes visible, and the trail transforms into a stunning multicolored landscape with yellow and red foliage of the fall time.
Conclusion
The overland route from Shigatse to EBC Tibet is the best way to reach this iconic destination. It not only presents a bouquet of spectacular landscapes and glimpses of colorful Tibetan culture and heritage, but the road conditions are so excellent that the convenience of civilizations never really leaves, even in the remote reaches of the base camp.
Whether you are trekking or want to witness the majestic Mount Everest up close and personal, this overland route provides an unforgettable experience of the Tibetan plateau and its highlights.
Ask a Quick Question
Be the First One to Comment "Shigatse to Everest Base Camp: the Only Way to Arrive at the EBC of Tibet by Overland"