Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour
Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour, This adventure tour is renowned as one of the most popular trips in the world, as visitors traverse the mighty Himalayas and behold the breathtaking panorama of the highest peaks on Earth. Upon arriving in the holy city of Lhasa, you will be greeted by the lovely blue sky and witness impressive glimpses of numerous monasteries. We will spend a couple of days in Lhasa, where we will appreciate its prominent historical and religious sites, such as the awe-inspiring Potala Palace and the sacred Jokhang Temple, along with the expansive Drepung and Sera monasteries. These initial days also serve to assist many of our visitors in recovering from jet lag. Before we embark on our journey into the Himalayan region, we will observe the holy Yamdrok Lake, the beautiful Karo la glaciers, the mystical Gyantse Khubum stupa, and the Tashi Lhunpo monastery along the way. These sites will repeatedly stir you with astonishment and appreciation, ensuring that the trip remains memorable throughout our eight-day excursion. After witnessing the magnificent golden reflection of the sun on Mount Everest, we will descend steeply into the valley of Mutsang Tsangpo as we drive to Nepal.
Tour Itinerary Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour
DAY 01 – 03
Our representatives will greet you at the airport/train station and accompany you on a short drive to the holy city of Lhasa, where our adventures together will begin. We will travel along the Lhasa River within a valley enclosed by barren mountains until we reach the grand city, catching our first glimpses of the tremendous Potala Palace. Upon arrival, we will check into our hotel located in the old part of the city or the ‘Tibetan Area.’ In the center of this area stands the mystical Jokhang Temple and bustling Bakhor Street, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional Tibetan life. Over the next few days, you will have the opportunity to visit several worthy world heritage sites infused with Tibetan Buddhist culture and religious practices. Despite the busy schedule, there will be plenty of time to walk shoulder to shoulder with devoted local pilgrims on the streets of Bakhor and explore the gorgeous ancient buildings. Our knowledgeable guides will enhance your experience with thorough historical and cultural information as we visit the magical Drepung and Sera monasteries. The days are flexible and easy to navigate independently, allowing many guests to explore the city on their own. Additionally, we will arrange special excursions to typical Tibetan villages, where you can meet local families or receive rare, sacred blessings from high lamas.
DAY 04 – 05
During the following days, we will journey over the Gampa la Pass and Karo la Pass to reach Gyantse and Shigatse. Both towns are nestled deep within the western Tibetan plateau and are a must-see for any visitor seeking an immersive cultural and traditional experience. Following the Brahmaputra river, we will drive through the terrain of the Gampa la Pass (4900m), where the breathtaking view of holy Yamdrok lake awaits. The snow-capped peaks of Mt. Nyenchen Kangsar add to the beauty of this lush landscape. Along the way to Gyantse and Shigatse, we will encounter scattered villages and lone stupas dotting the roadside. These two towns are renowned for their historical and religious significance, attracting many foreigners who appreciate their ancient charm. Gyantse, also known as a ‘hero’s town,’ was once the capital of a 14th-century kingdom. Exploring these beautiful towns will give you a sense of authentic traditional Tibetan life, as they have slightly different traditions than Lhasa. Upon arrival, we will visit the Gyantse Kubhum stupa and the Tashi Lhunpo monastery.
DAY 06 – 07
We will gradually and steadily ascend into the mountainous Himalayan region, crossing remarkable passes. The first panoramic view of the Himalayas will unfold from the ridge of Gyatso la Pass (5400m), revealing an infinite number of snow-capped peaks. Astonishing landscapes and photogenic villages nestled within hidden valleys are true gems along the barren mountains, allowing us to imagine how this landscape might have appeared centuries ago. As we approach the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest, towering at 8844.4 m, we will spend a night in Rongbuk Valley, with a short hike to the EBC marker. Herds of wild goats perch atop large boulders, and sightings of small mammals are not uncommon. The following morning, the sun will illuminate the luminous peaks, bidding a bittersweet farewell to the familiar landscape. Next, we will drive south to Nepal, crossing the Thongla pass. Gradually descending into a deep valley with a series of switchback bends, we will witness spectacular waterfalls on both sides of the fertile hills. With the decrease in altitude, the dry climate transitions into a warm, moist environment, signaling our arrival in the Indian subcontinent.
DAY 08
Today marks the last day of our journey together. Before your departure, we kindly request a few minutes of your time to evaluate our services for future improvement. You may give the feedback form to your guide or simply write us a brief email highlighting the trip’s highlights or any complaints. After being welcomed by Nepalese escorts, we will drive to the border of Nepal and take a short rest in the border town of Datopani. From there, you can easily find local transportation to Kathmandu on the Nepal side. If desired, we can also arrange private transportation from the border to Kathmandu for an additional cost. Please communicate your preferences clearly to your trip advisor.
Tour Services of Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour
Included
- All necessary Tibet travel permits.
- Entrance ticket for all the attractions listed in the itinerary.
- Entrance for your Vehicle and guide for the Everest Natural Reserve.
- Private transportation in Tibet with experienced local Tibetan driver: Ranging from Business van to minibus depending on the group size.
- English speaking Proffesional Tour guide (Local Tibetan).
- Lodging in three star rating hotels: Hotel rooms are based on double occupancy ( with Breakfast).
- Free shuttle Pick-up and send-off services at the beginning/end of the tour.
- A mobile with local SIM card during the tour with your tour guide (it can receive international calls and text messages).
- An Oxygen tank and First Aid box in Car (Size of Oxygen Tank base on group member).
- Two water bottle each day/person.
- Lodging and meals for guide and drivers.
Excluded
- Travel insurance which covers tour cancellation and emergency evacuation (highly recommended to buy from your home country).
- Chinese Visa or Tibet Group Visa ( If coming from Nepal).
- International and domestic flight/train tickets.
- Lunches and Dinners averagely a meal in Tibet (Around USD5 per person).
- Gratuities (Tips) for the guide and driver. ( Highly recommend to give at end of tour).
Tour Map
Conclusion of Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour
In conclusion, this tour offers an unforgettable adventure through the majestic landscapes and cultural treasures of Tibet and the Himalayas. From the holy city of Lhasa, with its iconic Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, to the mystical monasteries of Drepung and Sera, every day is filled with awe-inspiring experiences. The journey continues to Gyantse and Shigatse, where the rich history and traditional Tibetan life come alive. As we ascend into the Himalayan region, the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and hidden valleys leave a lasting impression. Standing at the base of Mount Everest, surrounded by the beauty of Rongbuk Valley, is a truly humbling experience. The descent into Nepal offers a seamless transition into a new chapter of exploration. Throughout the tour, our knowledgeable guides provide valuable insights, and opportunities to interact with local communities add depth to the cultural immersion. As the trip comes to an end, we invite you to provide feedback on our services to further enhance future experiences. It is our hope that this journey leaves you with cherished memories and a profound appreciation for the wonders of Tibet and the Himalayas.
FAQs of Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour
What is the best time of year to take this tour?
The best time to take this tour is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is generally pleasant, and the skies are clear. These months offer optimal conditions for enjoying the breathtaking views of the Himalayas and exploring the cultural sites.
Do I need any special permits to visit Tibet?
Yes, to visit Tibet, you will need a Tibet Travel Permit, also known as the Tibet Entry Permit. This permit is arranged by the tour operator and is required to enter Tibet. Additionally, if you plan to visit specific restricted areas, additional permits may be necessary, and your tour operator will assist you in obtaining them.
How physically demanding is this tour?
This tour involves some moderate physical activity, such as walking and hiking at high altitudes. It is important to be in good health and have a reasonable level of fitness. Altitude acclimatization is essential, and the itinerary is designed to allow for gradual ascent to minimize the risk of altitude sickness. However, it is always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before undertaking any high-altitude journey.
What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
Accommodation during the tour will vary but will generally include comfortable hotels or guesthouses that cater to travelers. In major cities like Lhasa, you can expect accommodations with modern amenities. In more remote areas, the facilities may be more basic but still clean and comfortable. Rest assured that our tour operator selects accommodations that provide a pleasant and convenient stay.
Can I extend my trip or customize the itinerary?
Yes, it is possible to extend your trip or customize the itinerary according to your preferences. We can work with you to tailor the tour to better suit your interests and travel schedule. Whether you wish to explore more of Tibet or include additional destinations, such as Nepal, our team will assist you in creating a personalized itinerary that meets your needs
