Welcome to Chengdu, an international gateway to southwest China and a vibrant city renowned for gastronomy and giant pandas. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and rest for the day to recover from the journey.

Arriving at 8:30 am at the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base means catching the pandas in their liveliest morning hours. You'll witness them energetic and playful as they climb trees, roll in the grass, and nibble bamboo.

After this delightful morning, head back to downtown Chengdu. At Wenshu Temple, take your time exploring the tranquil gardens where locals stroll. Sip a soothing cup of local tea under centuries-old trees, watching life unfolding at an easy pace, and feel the true rhythm of Chengdu.

Just an hour's drive from Chengdu city center lies the Sanxingdui Museum. As the sole institution showcasing the ancient Shu civilization, it provides a fascinating window into China's past through its extensive collection of unearthed bronzes, goldwork, jade pieces, and pottery.

Late afternoon, meet with your local food guide for a culinary tour. Hop on a tuk-tuk and sample dumplings in a tucked-away community. Try famously spicy Sichuan fare and see how much heat you can handle! End the day with local brews at a local favorite, taking in authentic Chengdu vibes alongside the locals.

You're free until the transfer to the Chengdu airport for your flight to Lhasa.

Upon arrival, a local guide will meet you and escort you to a Lhasa hotel. After check-in, take the afternoon to settle in and acclimate to the high altitude. Rest up before exploring Tibet's fascinating capital city during your stay.

Your first excursion takes you to the esteemed Potala Palace. Towering over the city, this 13^th-century structure served as the winter home for Tibet's spiritual and political leader, the Dalai Lama. Awe-inspiring Tibetan architecture houses golden Buddha statues within its walls, where red-robed monks still offer prayer.

Later, explore Jokhang Temple, Tibet's holiest site and spiritual heart. Wander its halls filled with pilgrims worshipping before statues of Buddha. Next on the agenda, wander Barkhor Street as pilgrims do - circling its prayer wheel-lined path dotted with devout shops. Absorb the atmosphere along this historic religious route.

Start your morning at Norbulingka Park, once a summer retreat within the manicured gardens of the Dalai Lama. Wander palaces gleamed beside reflective ponds, taking in imperial residences.

Delve into the centuries of tradition housed within the fragrant Drepung Monastery. Home once to 10,000 saffron-robed monks in philosophical debates, glimpse relics of its historic eminence.

Conclude at Sera Monastery, established in 1419 within colonnaded courtyards bearing intricate murals and gilded figures. Watch the colorful exchanges that have played out here for generations, as crimson-clad monks rigorously analyze Buddhist teachings.

Your journey through scenic Tibet continues as the 5.5-hour drive takes you from Lhasa to Gyantse. En route, breathtaking vistas unfold with a stop to glimpse Yamdrok Lake's transfixing reflections of snowy mountains in its holy turquoise waters. Upcoming discoveries include an intimate visit with a welcoming family offering homemade fare and local perspectives.

In Gyantse, the vibrant Palcho Monastery and its 14^th-century Tsuklakhang temple, housing representations of diverse Buddhist sects, invite exploration. Nearby, Karuola Glacier unveils its majestic stretches of gleaming white punctuated by towering seracs rising above the 5,400m viewpoint. After the tour, continue your journey overnight in Shigatse.

Awe-inspiring Tashilhunpo Monastery awaits exploration today, the oldest and most significant Gelugpa sanctuary in Tibet. Marvel at its colossal Future Buddha figure, encrusted with pearls, turquoise, coral, and amber. Absorb the prayerful atmosphere as devotees circumambulate this revered statue.

Then, step into a lively local market to experience everyday life. Peruse stalls laden with handicrafts, spices, and snacks as traders call out their wares. Interact with residents and gain insight into their vibrant culture.

Embark on an enthralling drive from Dingri to Everest Base Camp, traversing the scenic routes that wind through Shigatse. As you journey, the majestic Mount Everest begins to dominate the horizon.

Approach the revered Everest Base Camp and be prepared to experience the grandeur of Mount Everest's imposing north face. Under the vast expanse of the Tibetan azure sky, witness the colossal peak's summit ridges and sharp cornices come into crystalline focus.

Today promises scenic vistas as you return to Lhasa, some six hours through landscapes shaped by the legendary Yarlung Tsangpo River.

This "Mother River" carves a pathway offering fabulous panoramas - the canyon valley unfolding below rugged snow-capped peaks that tower above the plains. Absorb the grandeur of primal Tibetan geography along this historic route.