Ultimate Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour Itinerary
A Tibet Overland Tour from Kathmandu to Kathmandu is an extraordinary journey that combines breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and spiritual exploration. Starting from Nepal's vibrant capital, the tour takes you on a scenic drive through lush valleys, terraced hillsides, and the dramatic Himalayan foothills toward the Kerung (Gyirong) border, where you enter Tibet, a land of stunning plateaus and sacred traditions. The overland route offers spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, including Mount Everest, and passes through remote Tibetan villages, ancient monasteries, and high-altitude lakes. Highlights include visiting the historic Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, the iconic Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, and the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake. The journey provides ample opportunities to immerse yourself in Tibetan Buddhist culture, witness traditional lifestyles, and marvel at the region's spiritual and natural wonders. After exploring the vibrant city of Lhasa, the tour concludes with a scenic flight back to Kathmandu, offering awe-inspiring aerial views of the Himalayas. This unique overland adventure is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty, cultural discovery, and spiritual enrichment.
What to expect from this Tibet Overland Tours
The Tibet Overland Tour from Kathmandu to Kathmandu offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, spirituality, and breathtaking scenery. This journey takes you through the heart of the Himalayas, crossing high-altitude landscapes and immersing you in the deep-rooted traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. Expect panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks, such as Everest and Shishapangma, as you travel through remote Tibetan villages, ancient monasteries, and vibrant cities like Shigatse and Lhasa. The tour highlights include visiting sacred landmarks like the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Yamdrok Lake, as well as experiencing the warm hospitality of Tibetan people. It is an overland adventure where every turn unveils dramatic landscapes, from the towering mountain passes to the vast Tibetan Plateau. While the trip offers a spiritual and cultural awakening, travelers should also prepare for the challenges of high-altitude travel and long drives, making the journey both thrilling and rewarding. The tour concludes with a scenic flight back to Kathmandu, offering a bird's-eye view of the Himalayas, leaving you with memories of a lifetime.
Key Points to Expect
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Scenic Drives and Himalayan Views:
- Jaw-dropping views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest.
- Drives through dramatic landscapes, high-altitude passes, and vast plains.
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Cultural and Spiritual Exploration:
- Visits to iconic Tibetan landmarks like the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Tashilhunpo Monastery.
- Insight into Tibetan Buddhism and local traditions.
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High-Altitude Adventure:
- Travel across elevated terrains, including mountain passes over 5,000 meters.
- Stop at sacred sites like Yamdrok Lake and traditional Tibetan villages.
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Immersion in Tibetan Lifestyle:
- Experience the daily life of Tibetan people in rural villages and urban centers.
- Witness monks debating at monasteries and explore historical stupas.
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Lhasa City Experience:
- Explore the spiritual and administrative heart of Tibet, with its vibrant streets and sacred sites.
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Challenges and Preparation:
- Long drives on rugged terrain.
- Acclimatization to high altitudes is crucial to minimize altitude sickness.
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Seamless Travel Experience:
- Professional guides and well-planned itineraries ensure smooth border crossings and permit arrangements.
- Comfortable accommodations and meals suited to the region.
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A Memorable Journey:
- A perfect mix of adventure, culture, spirituality, and natural beauty.
- Scenic flight from Lhasa to Kathmandu, offering panoramic aerial views of the Himalayas.
Overall Trip Overview
- Tour Name: Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour
- Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights
- Starting Point: Kathmandu, Nepal
- Ending Point: Kathmandu, Nepal (via flight from Lhasa)
- Travel Mode: Overland journey from Kathmandu to Lhasa (via Kerung/Gyirong Border) and flight back to Kathmandu
- Best Time to Visit: April to October (spring, summer, and autumn for the best weather)
- Group Size: Flexible (Private or Group Tour)
- Highlights: Tibetan Highlands, Everest Base Camp (optional), ancient monasteries, Potala Palace, local Tibetan culture, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
- Activities:
- Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal’s bustling capital city.
- Meet and greet with your tour representative/guide.
- Tour briefing and preparation for the journey.
- Explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites (optional): Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and Durbar Square.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.
- Meals: Dinner (optional).
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Kerung Border (Gyirong)
- Distance: ~145 km (6-7 hours)
- Altitude: 2,800 meters (Kerung)
- Activities:
- Early morning departure from Kathmandu.
- Scenic drive through the lush green hills, terraced farmlands, and rushing rivers.
- Cross the Nepal-Tibet border at Rasuwagadhi and complete immigration formalities.
- Enter Tibet through the Gyirong Port and transfer to Kerung town.
- Rest and acclimatization at Kerung.
- Accommodation: Guesthouse in Kerung.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 3: Kerung to Tingri (Shegar)
- Distance: ~270 km (6-7 hours)
- Altitude: 4,300 meters
- Activities:
- Drive through the Tibetan Plateau, surrounded by dramatic landscapes of snow-capped peaks and vast grasslands.
- Pass through small Tibetan villages and monasteries.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including Shishapangma (8,013 m).
- Arrive in Tingri and rest to adjust to the high altitude.
- Accommodation: Guesthouse in Tingri.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 4: Tingri to Shigatse
- Distance: ~240 km (6-7 hours)
- Altitude: 3,845 meters
- Activities:
- Drive through high mountain passes, such as Lalung La Pass (5,050 m) and Gyatso La Pass (5,220 m), offering stunning views of Mount Everest and other peaks.
- Explore small Tibetan settlements along the way.
- Arrive in Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, known for its rich history and vibrant culture.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Shigatse.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 5: Shigatse to Gyantse
- Distance: ~95 km (2 hours)
- Altitude: 3,950 meters
- Activities:
- Visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama, and explore its massive golden Buddha statues and ancient scriptures.
- Drive to Gyantse, a quaint historical town.
- Visit the iconic Gyantse Kumbum, an impressive stupa with intricate murals and chapels.
- Walk around the town to experience traditional Tibetan life.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Gyantse.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 6: Gyantse to Lhasa via Yamdrok Lake
- Distance: ~260 km (7-8 hours)
- Altitude: 3,650 meters
- Activities:
- Drive over the Karo La Pass (5,010 m) and Kamba La Pass (4,794 m), enjoying views of glaciers and mountain peaks.
- Stop at the breathtaking Yamdrok Lake, a turquoise freshwater lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
- Pass by the Brahmaputra River en route to Lhasa.
- Arrive in Lhasa, the spiritual and administrative heart of Tibet.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 7: Lhasa Sightseeing (Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple)
- Altitude: 3,650 meters
- Activities:
- Morning visit to the Potala Palace, the iconic winter palace of the Dalai Lama. Explore its grand halls, chapels, and panoramic views of Lhasa city.
- Afternoon visit to the Jokhang Temple, the holiest temple in Tibet, and walk through the bustling Barkhor Street, a traditional marketplace.
- Learn about Tibetan Buddhism, art, and architecture.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 8: Lhasa Sightseeing (Drepung and Sera Monasteries)
- Activities:
- Visit the Drepung Monastery, one of Tibet’s largest monasteries, known for its rich history and significance in Tibetan Buddhism.
- Explore the Sera Monastery and witness the famous debating sessions of the monks in the afternoon.
- Enjoy free time in Lhasa for shopping or personal exploration.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 9: Fly from Lhasa to Kathmandu
- Flight Duration: ~1.5 hours
- Activities:
- Transfer to Lhasa Gonggar Airport for your flight back to Kathmandu.
- Enjoy incredible aerial views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest.
- Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel.
- Free time to relax or shop in Thamel, Kathmandu’s vibrant tourist district.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.
- Meals: Breakfast.
Day 10: Departure from Kathmandu
- Activities:
- Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.
- Bid farewell to Nepal and Tibet with unforgettable memories of the tour.
Tour Inclusions
- Transportation:
- Private vehicle for all overland journeys in Nepal and Tibet.
- Flight ticket from Lhasa to Kathmandu.
- Accommodation:
- Hotels and guesthouses as per itinerary (twin-sharing basis).
- Meals:
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Tibet; breakfast in Kathmandu.
- Permits:
- Tibet Travel Permit, Alien Travel Permit, and all necessary documents.
- Guides:
- Experienced Tibetan and Nepali guides.
- Sightseeing Fees:
- Entrance fees for monasteries, Potala Palace, and other landmarks.
Tour Exclusions
- Nepal visa fee and Tibet visa fee.
- Travel insurance (mandatory).
- Personal expenses (shopping, snacks, etc.).
- Gratuities for guides and drivers.
- Meals not included in Kathmandu.
Important Notes
- Acclimatization: The itinerary is designed with gradual altitude gain to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
- Permits: Travelers must arrange their Tibet Travel Permit in advance, which will be handled by the tour agency.
- Packing Tips: Bring warm clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and any necessary medications.
