Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour

Trip ID: UM5506
Destination Tibet
Duration 8 Days
Difficulty Easy to Moderate Persons
Group Size 2-30
Maximum Altitude 5000
Best Time Spring and Autumn
Activities Sightseeing tour
Accommodation Hotel
Meals Breakfast
Transportation Private Vehicle
Start from Kathmandu
End at Lhasa

Trip Overview

Trip Highlight

  • 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.

Detailed Itinerary

  • Day 1 : Kathmandu to Rasuwa Gadi (130km, 7 hrs – 1400m.)

    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.

  • Day 2 : Rasuwa Gadi – Gyirong Town

    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).

  • Day 3 : Gyirong – Everest Base Camp (5000m.) – Tingri

    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.

  • Day 4 : Tingri – Shigatse via Lhatse (3650m.)

    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).

  • Day 5 : Shigatse – Gyantse – Lhasa

    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.

  • Day 6 : Lhasa Tour – Drepung and Sera Monasteries

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

  • Day 7 : Lhasa Tour – Potala Palace & Jokhang Temple

    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.

  • Day 8 : Depart from Lhasa

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

Trip Cost Inclusion

  • 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.

Trip Cost Exclusion

  • 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.

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