07Days

Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour

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Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour
Trip Duration 8 Days
Max-Altitude 4348
Group Size 1-15
Start & End Point Kathmandu
Trip Difficulty Easy
Best Season Spring and Autumn
Trip Price
US$ 2500
US$ 1900 Per Person
Trip Introduction

Overview of Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour

Set out on a transformative journey with the Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour, an 8-day exploration that spans from Kathmandu’s bustling environment to Tibet’s serene spiritual expanse. This Kathmandu Lhasa Overland Tour is a prime opportunity to witness this region’s awe-inspiring landscapes and profound cultural heritage.

Travel across the highest plateau on earth, visit centuries-old monasteries, and stand before the majestic Potala Palace. Ideal for adventurers and seekers of spiritual depth, this Lhasa Overland Tour from Kathmandu combines panoramic drives, historic sites, and immersive cultural experiences in a comprehensive Lhasa tour from Kathmandu.

Trip Schedule

Itinerary of Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour

Jeep 7-9 hours
Accommodation Tourist Standard Hotel
Meals Breakfast
Max-altitude 2000

Start your Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour with an invigorating drive from the bustling city of Kathmandu to the serene Kerung Border. This first leg of your Kathmandu Lhasa Overland Tour introduces you to the varied landscapes of Nepal as you travel through small villages and lush greenery, capturing the essence of rural life.

The journey to the border involves navigating winding roads with views that span vast valleys and rivers. Upon arrival at the border, you’ll experience a blend of cultures and the first taste of Tibetan air.

Completing border formalities will give you a sense of accomplishment as you officially step into Tibet, setting the stage for the adventures ahead.

Car 4-6 hours
Accommodation 3-Star Hotel
Meals Breakfast
Max-altitude 3845

Continue your Lhasa Overland Tour from Kathmandu by travelling from Kerung towards the vast expanses of the Tibetan plateau. Today’s drive is marked by dramatic changes in the landscape as you ascend to the heights of Gyatchu La, the highest pass on this route.

The breathtaking views from the pass offer a perfect panorama of Tibet’s rugged terrain, dotted with nomadic herders and distant snow-capped mountains.

As you descend towards Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, you’ll pass through small towns and past monasteries that punctuate the Tibetan plains.

Shigatse itself is a hub of Tibetan culture and religion, providing a deeper understanding of the local traditions and lifestyles.

Van 4-6 hours
Accommodation 3-Star Hotel
Meals Breakfast
Max-altitude 3656

Today’s journey in your Kathmandu Lhasa Overland Tour brings you closer to the heart of Tibet, Lhasa, with a stop in Gyantse. Start with a visit to Shigatse’s Tashilhunpo Monastery, an iconic religious site that houses a giant statue of the Future Buddha.

From Shigatse, drive to Gyantse, famous for its Kumbum Stupa, a stunning architectural marvel that houses thousands of Buddhist paintings and statues.

The road to Lhasa crosses breathtaking passes like Karola and Kambala and skirts the beautiful Yamdrok-Tso Lake, whose brilliant azure waters are one of Tibet’s three holy lakes. Each stop and view along the way adds layers of understanding to Tibet’s spiritual and natural beauty.

Van 4-6 hours
Accommodation 3-Star Hotel
Meals Breakfast
Max-altitude 3656

These two days are the soul of your Lhasa tour from Kathmandu, dedicated to exploring the rich tapestry of Lhasa’s cultural, historical, and spiritual landmarks. Visit the Potala Palace, a symbol of Tibet, whose massive walls and ancient chambers tell tales of former Dalai Lamas.

Wander through the Jokhang Temple, the spiritual centre of Tibet, and mingle with pilgrims in the bustling Barkhor Bazaar.

Explore the serene premises of Drepung and Sera Monasteries, where you can witness debating monks and soak in the peaceful monastic atmosphere. These days in Lhasa allow you to immerse yourself in the deep religious heritage that shapes this region.

Van 4-6 hours
Accommodation 3-Star Hotel
Meals Breakfast
Max-altitude 4348

As you depart Lhasa, your Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour transitions from urban exploration to embracing the vast wilderness again. The drive to Lhatse or Tingri is filled with the stark beauty of Tibet’s landscape.

This route offers a chance to see rural Tibetan life against the backdrop of some of the highest peaks in the world. The road is lined with prayer flags that flutter in the wind, adding colour to the brown and green canvas of the terrain. This drive is not just a transfer but a journey through the heart of Tibet’s natural grandeur.

Van 4-6 hours
Accommodation Tourist Standard Hotel
Meals Breakfast
Max-altitude 2700

As you make your way back towards Kerung on this penultimate day of your Kathmandu Lhasa Overland Tour, reflect on the spiritual and cultural insights gained throughout the trip.

The return journey allows for appreciation of the landscapes you might have missed, with ample stops for capturing photographs and enjoying the natural beauty. This day offers a moment to reflect on the deeper connections and transformations experienced during your travels across this magnificent landscape.

Jeep 7-9 hours
Accommodation Excluded
Meals Breakfast
Max-altitude 1400

On the final day of your Lhasa Overland Tour from Kathmandu, you will cross back into Nepal, bringing your spiritual and adventurous journey full circle.

The drive back to Kathmandu allows you to transition gradually from the tranquillity of Tibet to the lively hustle of Nepal’s capital. This return is not just a physical journey but a passage that carries back a treasure trove of memories, experiences, and a deeper understanding of a land steeped in spirituality and natural beauty.


Added Insights

Includes/Excludes

What's Included?

  • Private Vehicle Transportation: Comfortable and private vehicle travel throughout the tour.
  • Tibet Travel Permit: All necessary permits for Tibet are arranged for you.
  • English-speaking Tibetan Guide: Guided tours with a knowledgeable English-speaking Tibetan guide.
  • Twin-Sharing Accommodation: Comfortable accommodations on a twin-sharing basis.
  • Entrance Fees for Sightseeing: All entry fees for scheduled sightseeing and monastery visits.
  • Daily Breakfast: A daily breakfast is included to start your day right.
  • Round-Trip Transportation by Jeep: Round-trip jeep transport between Kathmandu and the Tibet border.

What's Excluded?

  • Lunch and Dinner: Meals other than breakfast are not included and will be at your own expense.
  • Insurance: Any kind of travel or personal insurance is not covered.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as drinks, tips, and other personal purchases are not included.
  • Additional Costs: Any extra costs arising from natural calamities or unforeseen circumstances are not included.
Good to Know

Essential Information - Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour

Top Highlights of the Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour

The Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour unfolds a splendid array of breathtaking highlights that embody the rich cultures, stunning landscapes, and spiritual depths of both Nepal and Tibet. Here’s what makes the Kathmandu Lhasa Overland Tour a must-experience journey:Lhasa Tour Guide

  • Potala Palace: A key feature of any Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour, this ancient fortress is a treasure trove of Tibetan history and spirituality, offering unmatched views over Lhasa.
  • Everest Base Camp: Accessible on select routes, the base camp provides a thrilling adventure and spectacular views of Mount Everest, enhancing the Kathmandu Lhasa Overland Tour.
  • Tashilhunpo Monastery: Located in Shigatse, this sprawling monastery is central to Tibetan Buddhism and an important visit on the Lhasa Overland Tour from Kathmandu.
  • Jokhang Temple: At the spiritual heart of Tibet, this temple is a pilgrimage site for thousands, making it a profound highlight of any Lhasa Overland Tour.
  • Barkhor Street: This bustling market street offers a deep dive into Tibetan culture with its array of crafts, foods, and religious artefacts, enriching your Lhasa tour from Kathmandu.
  • Yamdrok Lake: Known for its stunning turquoise waters set against snow-capped mountains, the lake offers scenic tranquillity on the Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour.
  • Gyantse Kumbum: A stunning architectural feat in Gyantse that houses an extensive collection of Buddhist artwork, essential for a comprehensive Kathmandu Lhasa Overland Tour.
  • Scenic Drives Across the Tibetan Plateau: Experience the vast, breathtaking landscapes of Tibet, dotted with cultural symbols and natural beauty, a cornerstone of any Lhasa Overland Tour from Kathmandu.Lhasa to Everest Base Camp and Mount Kailash Yatra Guide

These highlights are not just visually magnificent but also steeped in cultural and spiritual significance, offering a unique and enriching experience on the journey from Kathmandu to Lhasa.

Best Season for Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour

The best periods to undertake the Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour are spring (April to early June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer excellent weather conditions, with mild temperatures and limited rainfall, maximizing your chances of clear views of Mt. Everest’s peak during your Kathmandu Lhasa Overland Tour. This timing ensures that you can fully appreciate the natural beauty and cultural sites along the route without any weather-related interruptions.

Winter also offers a distinctive advantage for the Lhasa Overland Tour from Kathmandu. During these months, the Himalayas are often visible under brilliantly clear skies and the lower tourist traffic results in more budget-friendly travel options. This makes winter an appealing choice for those looking to experience Tibet in a quieter, more economical setting.Lhasa Tour (2)

Summer (July to August), while marking the rainy season in Tibet, primarily sees rainfall during the nighttime, which generally does not disrupt daytime travel activities. However, it’s worth considering that during this time, the roads on the Nepal side might be prone to disruptions due to heavy rains, which can lead to landslides and damage, potentially affecting your travel plans for the Lhasa tour from Kathmandu.

Most asked questions

FAQs about Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour

The ideal months for the Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour are from late April to early October. During this period, the weather is generally favourable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, providing excellent conditions for travel and sightseeing.

Travellers need a valid passport, a Chinese visa, and a Tibet Travel Permit. The permit is arranged by Alpine Luxury and is essential for entering Tibet from Kathmandu.

Due to the range of elevations and temperatures, it’s best to pack layers including thermal wear, a warm jacket, and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and personal medications.

The tour is designed to gradually acclimate travellers to high altitudes. It’s important to stay hydrated, eat light, and avoid strenuous exercise initially. Consult your doctor before the trip for altitude sickness medication if you are concerned about acclimatization.

Respect local customs and religious traditions. When visiting monasteries, dress modestly and follow the guidelines for photography. It’s customary to walk clockwise around religious sites and to remove shoes before entering temple halls. Always ask permission before taking photos of people.

Travellers Experiences

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