Trip Fact

Destination

Tibet

Duration

8 Days

Difficulty

Easy to Moderate

Group Size

2-30 Persons

Max altitude

5000

Best time

Spring and Autumn

Activities

Sightseeing tour

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Transportation

Private Vehicle

Start from

Kathmandu

End at

Lhasa

Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour overview

There is no more thrilling and adventurous way to enter Tibet than traveling overland from Kathmandu to Lhasa. This 8-day Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour takes you across the breathtaking Great Himalayas, showcasing towering snow peaks, sacred lakes, ancient glaciers, and cultural treasures before reaching Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet.

Starting from the lush Gyirong Valley, you’ll gradually ascend to the Tibetan Plateau, minimizing the risk of altitude sickness. Along the journey, visit Everest Base Camp, admire the world’s highest monastery at Rongbuk, explore Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, and marvel at the turquoise beauty of Yamdrok Lake. Finally, in Lhasa, immerse yourself in Tibetan life and spirituality at the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and vibrant Barkhor Street.

With professional Tibetan guides, comfortable vehicles, and hassle-free permit arrangements, this tour is designed to make your Himalayan crossing safe, enriching, and unforgettable.

Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour highlights

  • Scenic overland journey from Nepal into Tibet, crossing the Great Himalayas.
  • Explore the lush Gyirong Valley, one of the most beautiful valleys in the world.
  • Visit Everest Base Camp and admire Mount Everest from three viewpoints.
  • Discover Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest monastery.
  • Explore the grandeur of Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse.
  • Marvel at turquoise Yamdrok Lake and the mighty Karola Glacier.
  • Immerse in Tibetan spirituality at Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street.
  • Gradual altitude acclimatization with a stay in Gyirong Town for a safer journey.

Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour itinerary

Drive from Kathmandu to the Sino-Nepal border via Langtang National Park. Enjoy Himalayan views, lush forests, and traditional villages before reaching Rasuwa Gadi. Overnight in Rasuwa Gadi.

Cross the Gyirong border into Tibet. Meet your Tibetan guide and explore the beautiful Gyirong Valley, Sherpa villages, meditation caves, and Pada Monastery. Overnight in Gyirong (2,800m).

Ascend from forests to the Tibetan Plateau. Pass Pelku Tso Lake and Mt. Shishapangma, enjoy panoramic views of five 8000m peaks at Gawula Pass, then visit Everest Base Camp and Rongbuk Monastery. Continue to Tingri (4,300m). Overnight in Tingri.

Drive to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. En route, stop at Lhatse milestone before visiting Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama. Overnight in Shigatse (3,900m).

Visit Gyantse Town, Kumbum Stupa, and Perklor Monastery. Continue past Karola Glacier and enjoy lunch by Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three holy lakes. Arrive in Lhasa. Overnight in Lhasa.

Visit Drepung Monastery, once home to 10,000 monks, and Sera Monastery to witness the famous monks’ debates. Overnight in Lhasa.

Tour the majestic Potala Palace, explore Jokhang Temple, and join pilgrims on Barkhor Street. End the day with a farewell Tibetan dinner. Overnight in Lhasa.

Your guide will transfer you to the airport or train station for your onward journey. End of tour.

Are you interested in planning a custom trip with us? It’s quick, easy, and takes only 2 minutes.

What’s Included

  • Tibet Travel Permit and all required local documents (excluding expedited processing).
  • Comfortable tourist vehicle (5–29 seats, depending on group size).
  • All entrance fees listed in the itinerary.
  • Meals as listed in the itinerary.
  • Knowledgeable English-speaking Tibetan guide (other languages on request).
  • Accommodation in 3-star hotels or equivalent (upgrades available).
  • Free airport/railway transfers in Lhasa.
  • Service charge, government taxes, and tour handling fees.
  • Tourist accident/casualty insurance.
  • Complimentary Tibetan souvenirs, tourist map, bottled water, portable oxygen, and in-vehicle medical oxygen.

What’s Not Included

  • China Group Visa (processed at the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu).
  • International flights to/from China.
  • Single room supplement (applies when not sharing).
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Tips for guide and driver (recommended USD 7 per day per person).
  • Personal expenses: laundry, snacks, drinks, optional tours, etc.
  • Force majeure expenses: flight delays, natural disasters, political events, etc.

Interested in this trip? Start planning your adventure today!

Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour cost & dates

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FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

Why is this tour 8 days instead of 7?

We’ve added an extra day in Gyirong Town (2,800m) to ensure safe acclimatization when ascending from Kathmandu (1,400m) to Tingri (4,300m).

Do I need a visa and permits?

Yes. You need a China Group Visa (processed in Kathmandu) and a Tibet Travel Permit (arranged by us for free).

Is this tour suitable for beginners or older travelers?

Yes. With gradual altitude acclimatization and professional guidance, the tour is suitable for families, couples, and seniors.

How is the road condition from Kathmandu to Lhasa?

The road is mostly well-paved but includes some bumpy sections, especially near the Nepal border. Comfortable tourist vehicles are used throughout.

Where do we stay at Everest Base Camp?

From April to October, you’ll stay at tent guesthouses at EBC. In colder months, accommodation will be arranged in nearby villages.

Can I take the reverse route (Lhasa to Kathmandu)?

Yes. We also operate Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tours via the same route.

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