Kashgar to Lhasa Overland Tour

Distance: 285Kms Elevation: 1278m

We’re going to explore the Apak Hoja Tomb (known as Xiangfei Mu in Chinese), where we’ll discover the intricate architecture of Uyghur Islamic heritage. Then, we’ll head to the well-known Uyghur Bazaar, the largest market in Central Asia.

After having lunch, we’ll take a tour of the Kashgar historic old Town and visit the Id Kah Mosque, which happens to be the biggest mosque in China.

Distance: 285Kms Elevation: 1352m

We are going to journey from Kashgar to Yacheng. The distance covers 285 kilometers, and we’ll pass through the breathtaking landscapes of the Sand Dunes in the Gobi Desert.

Distance: 499Km, Elevation: 4220m

Today, we’re embarking on a journey from Yecheng to Dahon Liutan. Our route will take us through a number of high passes, such as Heika Pass, Kudi Pass, and the Maza Pass. As we travel, we’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the Kunlun Mountain range. Our overnight halt will be at Dahon Liutan.

Distance: 518Kms Elevation: 4263m

Today, we’re going to enter the Tibet Autonomous Region and exit from the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. We’ll be driving 518 kilometers through Jieshan Pass to Rutok. This area is sometimes referred to as the “roof of the world.”

Distance: 117Kms Elevation: 4284m

Today, we’re embarking on a journey of 117 kilometers to reach Siquanhe. During our trip, we’ll have the opportunity to explore the breathtaking Pangong-Tso Lake, renowned for hosting the world’s highest bird island at an impressive elevation of 4240 feet above sea level. Following our visit to the enchanting Pangong-Tso Lake, we’ll proceed with our drive towards Siquanhe.

Distance: 255Kms Elevation: 3692m

Today, we’re embarking on a journey to the Guge Kingdom, covering a distance of 255 km. When we arrive in Zanda, our first destination, we’ll explore the Tholing Monastery. This ancient monastery, constructed by the 2nd king of the Guge Kingdom in 996, holds great significance in reviving Tibetan Buddhism in Tibet. Once we’ve finished our visit to the monastery, we’ll take some rest at the hotel.

Distance 254kms, Max Elevation: 4741m

In the morning, we’ll begin by visiting the Guge Kingdom. The Tibetan kings built this kingdom after they escaped civil unrest in Lhasa following the passing of the Last King of Tibet in Tibetan History. This kingdom thrived for seven centuries as the central trading hub along the ancient silk route. However, its glory came to an end due to military campaigns in Ladakh and intervention from the 5th Dalai Lama’s administration in Lhasa. Our tour guide will provide us with plenty of information about the Kingdom and its history.

After exploring the Guge Kingdom, we’ll drive for about five hours from the Ruins of the Guge Kingdom to reach Darchen. Darchen serves as the base camp for trekking around Mount Kailash. During the journey, we’ll also make a stop at Manasarovar Lake, one of Tibet’s three holiest lakes. In the Hindu religion, believers think that taking a bath in this sacred lake can cleanse them of sins from past lives. It’s a wonderful place to meditate by the lakeshore. After spending some time at the lake, we’ll continue our drive to Darchen, where we’ll rest and get ready for tomorrow’s adventures.

Distance 54kms, Max Elevation: 5630m

The highlight of the tour is the three-day trek around Mt. Kailash. We will trek alongside the mountain for three days. Along the trekking route, you’ll find minimal accommodations and facilities. The trek at this high elevation is challenging and includes steep areas. It’s important for group members to stick together and assist each other during this trek.

On the first day of the trek, we’ll cover 20 kilometers from Darchen around Mt. Kailash to reach Dira Puk Monastery. You’ll follow an ancient pilgrimage route shared with Tibetan Buddhist and Indian Hindu pilgrims. Accommodation will be provided in a small guesthouse near the monastery. The elevation of Dira Puk Monastery is 5080 meters.

The second day will take us over the Dolma La Pass, the highest pass on the circuit at 5630 meters. Throughout most of the day, you’ll enjoy excellent views of mountains and glaciers. After crossing the Dolma La Pass, we’ll descend to Zutul Puk Monastery at an elevation of 4820 meters. The total distance covered this day is 18 kilometers.

On the third and final day of the trek, we’ll cover 14 kilometers from Zutul Puk Monastery back to the town of Darchen. Following the trek, we’ll spend a final night by the beautiful shores of Lake Manasarovar. At the lake, there’s a mineral-rich hot spring where you can relax and rejuvenate – a wonderful idea after the trek.

Distance 520kms, Elevation: 4485m

Today marks the start of your genuine adventure through the enchanting Western Tibetan wilderness. You’re in for a breathtaking sight of the stunning Tibetan Plateau scenery as we journey alongside the mesmerizing Yarlung Tsangpo river. Our route covers a total distance of 520 kilometers, showcasing an incredible landscape throughout. We’ll conclude the day by halting for the night in the charming town of Saga.

Distance: 300kms Elevation: 5000m

Today, we’re going to drive all the way up to the Mount Everest Basecamp. As we make our journey, we’ll make stops at the stunning Pei ku Tso Lake and Mount Shishapangma. While we’re on the way to Everest from the lake, we’ll get to enjoy amazing views of Himalayan peaks that are over 7000 meters tall. There’s even a chance that we might spot some wildlife. Before we reach the Basecamp, we’ll need to switch to the Everest Eco Bus. Our accommodation will be at the Rongbuk Monastery guest hostel, which is right next to the Rongbuk Monastery.

Distance: 110kms Drive: 4hrs Sleeping Elevation: 3848m

First thing in the morning, we’ll witness the sunshine over Mount Everest. Following that, we’ll head towards Shigatse.

On the way, we’ll make a slight detour to visit Sakya Monastery. This monastery serves as the main center for the Sakyapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Once we’ve explored the monastery, we’ll continue our journey to Shigatse. In the town of Shigatse, we’ll spend the night at a comfortable four-star hotel. The hotel boasts a warm and inviting Tibetan-style interior, and you’ll have the luxury of hot running water for a well-deserved bath.

Distance: 95kms Drive: 2:30hrs Sleeping Elevation: 4029m

Your journey will begin around 9:00 am. First, you’ll explore the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery. This monastery was constructed by the first Dalai Lama and serves as the official residence of the Panchen Lama. After that, we’ll leave Shigatse town and make our way to the Shalu Monastery. The Shalu Monastery is famous for its wall paintings that draw inspiration from the Newari influence on Tibetan Thangka Art. The paintings inside the monastery offer a truly unique experience.

Following the visit to Shalu Monastery, we’ll proceed to Gyantse. Once we reach the town, we’ll tour the Gyantse Palchoe Monastery and the Kumbum Stupa. Additionally, there’s an optional opportunity to explore Gyantse fort.

Distance: 263km Drive: 6hr. Sleeping Elevation:3656m

It’s recommended to begin your journey a bit earlier in the morning. In most cases, we’ll depart from Gyantse town at 7 am right after breakfast. First, we’ll make a stop at the Karola Glacier on Mount Nojin Kangsang (which stands at 7191 meters). Following the glacier visit, we’ll drive to Yamdrok Lake, where you’ll have some free time to enjoy. Next, we’ll ascend to the Kampala Pass (at 4700m) and pause there to take in the breathtaking view of Yamdrok Lake surrounded by the inner Himalaya ranges. After this, we’ll bid farewell to the Himalayas and descend into the Lhasa river valley.

Once we reach Lhasa city, you’ll witness the majestic Potala Palace towering over the cityscape. Our accommodation will be in a hotel within the historic Old Lhasa city. In the evening, you can take the opportunity to explore Barkhor Street on your own.

Morning: The group will start their day by visiting the Potala Palace, which is the most famous building in Tibet. It has over 1000 rooms and stands tall above the city of Lhasa. King Songtsen Gampo originally built the palace in the seventh century. In the 17th century, the fifth Dalai Lama reconstructed his residence on the remains of the old palace. Since then, the palace has been the winter home for successive Dalai Lamas and the main administrative center for the local Tibetan Government.

Afternoon: In the afternoon, the group will head to Drepung Monastery. It’s one of the three largest monasteries in Lhasa and central Tibet. Back in the early 20th century, it held the title of the world’s biggest monastic complex. Taking a walk around the monastery offers about an hour of stunning views.

In the morning, start your day by visiting the Jokhang Temple, which is considered the holiest among all Buddhist temples and monasteries in the Inner Himalaya region. This temple was established in the 7th century by Tibetan Buddhist King Songtsen Gampo. He built it to house the most sacred statue of Lord Buddha, a gift he received as part of his marriage to Princess Wenchen from the Tang Dynasty in China. As you explore, you’ll witness thousands of pilgrims who come to the temple to walk around it, bow down, and pay their respects.

Later in the afternoon, your next stop is the Sera Monastery. This monastery is one of the largest three in Lhasa and central Tibet. It was founded around 600 years ago by the main disciple of Je Tsongkhapa. The highlight of your visit here is the intriguing debates on Tibetan Buddhist philosophy among the monks. You can watch these debates in the monastery’s courtyard, which is open for visitors starting at 3 pm on weekdays. It’s an enjoyable experience to observe and capture with your mobile phone camera, but remember that inside the courtyard, only mobile phone photography is allowed.

Your tour guide will take you to the train station or the airport based on your departure.