Mt. Everest & Zhangmu Town

 Mt. Everest

Mt. Everest, also called Mt. Qomolangma in Tibetan has a height of 8844.43 meters (29017 ft), which is the highest peak in the world. Meaning Mother Goddess of the Universe in Tibetan, Mt. Qomolangma borders Nepal in the south. Snow capped mountain, massive glaciers and splendid seracs attract climbers and visitors every year.

Since the North Col of Mt. Everest is located in Tinggri (or Shegar), most visitors start their climing there. Now the starting point for most mountaineers is the Rongbuk Monastery, which is about 48 kilometers (30 miles) away from New Tinggri. The monastery, which was founded in 1899, is the highest monastery in the world. One can overlook the beauty of Everest standing here. Rongbuk Monastery is also a must-see for visitors because of its long history and unique location. Visitors can stay overnight in the Rongbuk Hostel.

Sitting on the local oxcart while appreciating the fine scenery on the way to Qomolangma Base Camp, it is possible that visitor are unconscious of the altitude--more than 5,000 meters (about 16404 ft) above sea level. Not every one can conquer such a high altitude. So once you feel uncomfortable, do not hesitate to stop. A 10-meter (about 33 ft) high small hill opposites the Base Camp would be your perfect viewing point to appreciate the holy Mt. Everest.


Note:In the near future, 100-200USD may be charged for each visitor by the Mountaineering Management Center. The fee will be used to clear the garbage on the Mt. Everest. By now, the policy has not been implemented.

 Zhangmu Town
Located on the mountainside of Mt. Qomolangma, Zhangmu Town (or Kasa) is the border town between China and Nepal and is a trading post. Walking from the Friendship Bridge which crosses over the border river, Bhotekoshi (the Sun Koshi) River, it is only 122 kilometers (about 75.8 miles) away from the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu. Most of the houses are situated on the mountainside and the outside walls are painted red, white, yellow and even green. Traditional Tibetan houses are rare to see in the town. The only road in this small town is full of various shops such as drugstores, hostels and restaurants. Merchants from Nepal, inland China as well as the local Tibetan and Sherpas swarmed together to make their living in this little lively town. Visitors from all over the world also enjoy the mixture special feeling of Nepal and Tibetan in Zhangmu Town.

Since there is no coach from Lhasa to Zhangmu, visitors have to hire a car. However, one can come to Zhangmu  from Shigatse Coach Station by coach every morning, 9 o'clock. Taxi may cost CNY 20 per person to Friendship Bridge from Zhangmu Town. Zhangmu Hotel near the customhouse provides the best service in the town.