Kathmandu Lhasa Overland Tour - 8 Days

Kathmandu Lhasa Tibet Overland Tour for 8 Days from Nepal
Kathmandu Lhasa Overland Tour
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What to see & do
Specific information about Kathmandu Lhasa Overland Tour - 8 Days
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Duration8 Days
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Trip GradeModerate
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Max Altitude4450M
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Starts atKathmandu
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Ends atKathmandu
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Travel StyleOverlnad Tour
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Group Size20
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TransportationPrivate Vehicles
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Best SeasonSpring and Summer

Kathmandu Lhasa Overland Tour is an exciting journey through beautiful valleys and highlands. It is one of the most sought-after tours by travel enthusiasts, offering spectacular views of Himalayan landscapes and cultural immersion. This exceptional journey begins from the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, and traverses a total distance of 860 km to Lhasa. The 8 days and 7 nights trip follows the Rasuwa-Kerung Highway and takes you to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. The vivid city is rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Some famous tour destinations of Lhasa include Potala Palace, Drepung Monastery, Barkhor market, Jokhang Temple, and the Summer Palace of Dalai Lama. The sightseeing portion of this trip spans two days and offers you a unique perspective of the wonders of Tibet. Apart from the laid-back travel experience, you will enjoy the thrilling and adventurous road drive. On this journey, you will cross the high desert and visit ancient caves and monasteries. Embrace this opportunity to immerse yourself in Tibet's breathtaking landscapes, spiritual essence, and cultural heritage. Our well-tailored itinerary will further ensure an enhanced travel experience as you will experience and witness the captivating nature and aesthetics of this majestic land.

Kathmandu Lhasa Overland Tour Trip Highlights:

  • Experience an astounding overland road journey from Kathmandu to Lhasa with breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
  • Venture into the heart of Tibet and explore ancient Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries and Spiritual Monuments.
  • Explore the pristine lakeside villages and savor traditional dishes and beverages.
  • Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Jokhang Temple and Potala Palace.
  • Have a relaxing walk around Barkhor Street and immerse yourself in the local lifestyle.
  • Learn about the Buddhist scripture at Sera Monastery.
  • Photograph the magnificent views of the Karola Glacier.
  • Admire the majestic view of the Gyantse Fortress.
  • Enjoy a wonderful glimpse of the holy mountain Noijin Kangsang and Yamdrok Lake.
  • Walk around Shigatse, one of Tibet's largest and most ancient cities.
  • Educational Pilgrimage tour in Tashi Lhunpo Monastery.
  • Cross-enthralling high passes, including Tsola Pass (4,600m), Simila Pass (4,200m), Gyatso La Pass (5,248m), and Gampa La Pass (4,790m).
  • A relaxing sunset and sunrise view over a magnificent peak from Rongbuk Monastery.

You can Travel to Tibet Via Different Routes

Travelers embarking on their incredible journey to the holy land of Tibet can choose to travel via different routes. Your journey begins from Kathmandu and proceeds by road to Rasuwagadhi. From here on, the overland ride takes you to Tibet via the Kerung (Kyirong) border. Once you enter the country, you can continue the tour through destinations such as Lhasa and Shigatse. Apart from this classic choice of travel, we also provide popular alternative routes, including the Qinghai-Tibet Highway, Sichuan-Tibet Highway, Yunnan-Tibet Highway, Xinjiang-Tibet Highway, and the famous Sino-Nepal Friendship Highway. Each option has distinctive highlights and will uniquely charm your travel experience. Apart from the 8 days Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour, our popular packages include the 7 days Lhasa to Kathmandu overland tour and the 7 days Chengdu to Lhasa Overland tour. You can choose from these options which best suit your interests and preferences.

Essential Information for Tibet Overland Tour Travellers

You must consider some crucial details to enhance your travel experience in Nepal and make your journey comfortable. Please read through the following information to ensure a hassle-free and smooth journey.

  • Arrival in Nepal: After booking this package, remember that you must arrive in Kathmandu three to four days (Monday) before the start of the tour. These spare days will help us to process the Tibet Group Visa for you. During the procedure, the Embassy of China in Kathmandu will have your documents, including your passport. So, plan your travel accordingly to accommodate this specific requirement.
  • Group Size: According to the new rules and regulations, a minimum of five people are required to obtain the necessary Visas and permits.

Note: Biometrics no longer needs access to travel in Tibet.

Avoid Altitude Sickness as a newly-arrived Tourist.

Altitude sickness is common during highland travel, such as the overland Lhasa and Tibet tours. The illness can be experienced by travelers at a low elevation of 1,500 meters, and it is more likely to affect altitudes over 3,000 meters. Due to the thin atmosphere of the Tibetan plateau, travelers will experience mild symptoms as they arrive at Lhasa during the tour. The capital city of Tibet has an altitude of 3,365 meters. As a result, newly arrived tourists might experience light dizziness and nausea upon arrival. However, you do not need to worry as this is a common sign among travelers who have never settled in higher elevations. Moreover, you will adapt naturally and not experience any symptoms later on the trip. Nonetheless, we highly advise staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water throughout the day. You can also consume electrolyte solutions to balance your electrolyte levels and prevent altitude sickness.

Travel in Autumn to Experience the best of Lhasa, Tibet

The best time to visit Tibet is in May or October during the Autumn season when the sky is crisp and clear. At this time of the year, the temperature is warm, and most areas of the country are accessible for exploration. Further, the Tibetan plateau gets plenty of sunshine, including the capital, Lhasa, making travel a pleasant experience. As the sky is clear, visitors can enjoy fantastic views of the city and the surrounding beautiful mountains. Like Autumn, the Spring(February to April) season is also a popular option for travelers visiting this mystical land. The temperature at this time of the year is optimal for city exploration and hiking around the highlands of Tibet. Moreover, you will also have the opportunity to experience and immerse yourself in local festivals. Some of the biggest festivities that fall in Spring include the Tibetan New Year (Lhosar) and the Butter Lamp festival. Overall, the best time to book the overland Lhasa, Tibet tour from Kathmandu depends on your preference and travel expectations. We advise you to plan your travel accordingly for enhanced travel expectations.

The Summer Season is also an optimal option for travel.

Summer in Tibet begins in July and ends in August and is regarded as one of the best times to visit the majestic kingdom. During this time of the year, Lhasa experiences a maximum temperature of 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. The pleasant temperature and weather conditions of Spring attract thousands of tourists who seek a calm and relaxing summer getaway. Moreover, as the climbing seasons draw near, Lhasa receives numerous travelers who attempt to visit and explore nearby mountains, including the revered Mount Kailash. If you want to see the holy mountain, we recommend our Mount Kailash Charan Sparash Package or the Mount Kailash Parikrama Tour. This tour allows you to experience generations' spiritual, religious, and cultural heritage practices in the sacred site. Moreover, the summer is also the perfect time to celebrate religious occasions like the Shoten Festival, the Ganden Thanka Festival, and the Nagchu Horse Racing Festival.

Where to Stay during your Lhasa, Tibet tour

As the capital city of Tibet, Lhasa boasts a variety of hotels and lodges that suit the needs of every traveler. You can choose from budget-friendly guest houses, Tibet-style lodges, and even 5-star-rated luxury hotels. Regardless of their classification, all of these accommodations in Lhasa are equipped with top-notch facilities and services. Moreover, we will be ready to assist you with any issues you must solve during your stay. If you want comfort and the best hospitality and service, then St. Regis Resorts is your best option. The accommodation establishment is conveniently located near Barkhor Street and Jokhang Temple. The renowned hotel chain is most famous for its luxurious hotel, where you can relax with a beverage of your choice. Similarly, the Xinding Hotel is also a favorable option for those who seek a luxurious stay in Tibet. The four-star hotel is situated on Jinzhu Road and is close to famous destinations, including the majestic Potala Palace. On the other hand, for travelers looking for more budget-friendly options, we recommend the Tashitakge Hotel. It is a small 25-room establishment in the Chengguan District near Lhasa's city center. As a result, the hotel has been an optimal choice of stay for tourists and businessmen. In addition, the Tashitakge Hotel boasts a traditional Tibetan/Nepali-infused design and windows that provide breathtaking views of the surroundings.

Itinerary
Trip day to day detail itinerary
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After enjoying an early morning breakfast, the tour begins with a scenic drive to the Kerung border from Kathmandu. Moving ahead, you will pass through numerous settlements, including Dhunche, Sybarubesi, Timure, and Rasuwagadhi. Along the way, you will see several magnificent snow-capped mountains, rivers, and vast green forests. After arriving at Kerung, the authorities will check your permits and grant you access to Tibet. Eventually, after an almost three-hour drive from the border, you will arrive at Kerung, where you will stay for the night.

  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast
  • walking-distance iconWalking Distance: 145 km

Today, the drive leads you to the high plateau of Tibet, where you will have beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. As you relax in your seats, you will enjoy marvelous views of Mt Xishapagma (8,012m) and Mt Cho Oyu (8,200m). The journey then leads you to Lhatse, where we will have a brief break to rest and enjoy lunch. After exploring the area briefly, our drive to Shigatse continues through desert-like terrains and winding roads.

  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast
  • accomodation iconAccommodation: Hotel
  • walking-distance iconWalking Distance: 480 km

The road journey begins from the hotel in Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. It is also known for the Tashilhunpo Monastery, the abode of the Panchen Lama. The drive from Shigatse to Gyantse is 4 hours long and winds through beautiful Tibetan countryside villages. At Gyantse, we can briefly detour around the famous Pelkor Monastery. After the short exploration, we will resume our drive to Lhasa with panoramic views of the surrounding town and landscapes. Today's journey ends as we arrive at a hotel in Lhasa. We will gather in the evening, enjoy a hearty dinner with our team members, and share our travel experiences.

  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast
  • accomodation iconAccommodation: Hotel
  • walking-distance iconWalking Distance: 320 km

The incredible day begins as we prepare to explore the beautiful Lhasa city. First, we will visit the historical Potala Palace. The monument is considered the paramount landmark of the majestic kingdom of Tibet and is also known for its exquisite Tibetan architecture. The palace is situated at an altitude of 3,750 m, offering beautiful views of the cities around you. Afterward, our tour will lead us to the Jokhang Temple, one of the most sacred sites of Buddhism. Apart from its spiritual significance, the holy Buddhist chambers, its iconic golden roof, and its architecture are among the prominent features of the temple. As the day ends, we will wander around the vibrant Barkhor Street. The area is renowned as a shopping hub for travelers looking to buy souvenirs and gifts. There is much to choose from; we suggest you look at traditional Tibetan handicrafts. This includes Buddha statues, prayer wheels, knives, hats, shoes, jewelry, etc.

  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast
  • accomodation iconAccommodation: Hotel

After breakfast at the hotel, the tour today begins with a visit to Drepung Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in Tibet. Once, the monastery housed over 10,000 monks and was the residence of the Dalai Lama. The major attraction of the Drepung Monastery is the large Cuoqin Hall. The hall features over 183 pillars and rooms with intricate Buddha statues. Moving on, we will visit the Sera monastery in the afternoon. It was built by Jamchen Choeje in the year 1419. During the exploration, you will see a lot of roses planted everywhere in the monastery. Thus, it earned the name "the Court of Wild Rose". Continuing our tour, we will arrive at the Norbu Lingka Monastery, the first summer palace founded by the seventh Dalai Lama in the 18th century. Today's tour is the harmonious blend of the religion, tradition, culture, history, and the enduring spirit of Tibet.

  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast
  • accomodation iconAccommodation: Hotel

The relaxing drive from Lhasa to Gyantse is one of the scenic routes in Tibet. It showcases the breathtaking landscapes and beautiful village settlements along the way. After leaving Lhasa, the journey takes us through the Kampa La Pass(4,790 m). From here, you will have the first glimpse of the pristine Yamdrok Lake. The sacred lake is a holy site in Tibet surrounded by majestic mountains, including Mount Nyenchen Khangsar. As the drive continues, you will cross the Karo La Glacier(5,945 m). Moving on, you will finally arrive at Gyantse after passing through several Tibetan villages and herder camps. In the evening, you can enjoy a short detour to the Gyantse Kumbum and the Pelkor Chode Monastery.

  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast
  • accomodation iconAccommodation: Hotel
  • walking-hour iconWalking Hours: 8 hours
  • walking-distance iconWalking Distance: 265 km

Today, the journey offers a blend of historic sites and dramatic landscapes, making it a remarkable ride through central Tibet. We will have breakfast in the morning and begin our road journey early. As we leave Gyantse behind, we will pass by several village settlements and head towards the rugged terrains of the region. Eventually, the route passes through Shigatse, home to the Tashilhunpo Monastery. The ten-hour journey comes to an end as we arrive at Tingri. As we approach the village, the bus crosses through the Gyawu La Pass (5,210 m). From here, you can see beautiful views of Mount Everest, the tallest peak in the world. The region is famous for its nomadic settlements, Tibetan culture, tradition, and distinct landscape.

  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast
  • accomodation iconAccommodation: Hotel
  • walking-hour iconWalking Hours: 10 hours
  • walking-distance iconWalking Distance: 300 km

Today is the last day of our remarkable tour, and we will cherish and reflect on our experiences as we drive to Kathmandu. After we leave Tingri behind, the route ahead descends through beautiful Tibetan plateaus towards Kerung. Once we pass the border, the drive leads us through the Langtang National Park, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and lush vegetation. The ten-hour journey ends as we arrive at Kathmandu after driving through scenic villages and rugged terrains. The route provides travelers with a unique blend of Himalayan vistas, Tibetan highlands, and lush green forests of Nepal.

  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast
  • walking-hour iconWalking Hours: 10 hours
  • walking-distance iconWalking Distance: 350 km
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Useful Information
Good to know before you travel

Food in Lhasa, A Paradise for a Tibetan Feast

One primary highlight of any tour is trying the exciting dishes and beverages from the local cuisine. The food in Lhasa is centered around yak meat, dairy products, and vegetables such as turnips, potatoes, and cabbage. Moreover, the dishes served in the accommodation are made from locally grown products. Thus, you will consume foods full of nutrients, minerals, and proteins during your stay in Lhasa. The foods in Lhasa are heavily influenced by Western, Nepalese, Sichuan, and Tibetan cuisines. As a result, most of the delicacies available in Lhasa are a vibrant and flavorful collaboration of various cultural influences. You can try some in food courts and restaurants clustered around Barkhor Street and the Jokhang Temple. The following are famous dishes and beverages you must try during the Lhasa overland tour.

  • Tsampa
  • Tibetan Yak Meat
  • Tibetan Momo
  • Thukpa (Tibetan Noodle Soup)
  • Tibetan Yogurt
  • Dre-si
  • Tibetan Butter Tea
  • Tibetan Sweet Tea
  • Lhasa Beer
  • Chhaang (Barley wine)
  • Raksi

Easy Payment and Cancellation Process

To book the tour, you will need to deposit 30% of the total cost of the packages. You can pay the remaining balance after you arrive in Nepal. The payment can be made easily by cash, credit card, debit card, or online bank transfer. If you have any further inquiries regarding the process, you can contact us anytime so we can assist you further.

On the other hand, if you want to call off the trip, you won't be charged any fee if you make the cancellation 30 days before the start of the tour. However, if the cancellation has been made 15 days before the tour, you will be charged 30% of the total package amount. Moreover, you will be charged 100% of the total amount for cancellations within three days or less.

Nepal Visa Requirements for the Tour

When booking this package, you must also apply for the Nepal Visa. You can complete the application form online at the official Nepal Immigration site. Moreover, you can obtain the visa upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport or any other international border in Nepal. To proceed with the Visa application, you will need two passport-size photos and a Passport valid for at least six months after you arrive in Nepal. A 30-day multi-entry tourist visa costs approximately USD 50, and USD 125 for a 90-day multi-entry tourist visa.

How do you apply for a Chinese Group Visa?

All travelers visiting Tibet will need a Chinese Group Visa issued by the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. We will initiate this process on your behalf for your convenience. As mentioned before, you must arrive four days before to make time for the arrangements. To obtain the Chinese Group Visa, provide us with a scan of your original passport and passport-size photos a month before the tour. If you have any inquiries regarding the process, our representatives are happy to help you.

Note: If you already have a Chinese Visa, we can recommend you a package that takes you to Tibet from China.

How do I apply for the Tibet Travel Permit?

A Tibet Travel Permit lists the Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour participants. The paper also includes the travel dates and destinations to be visited in Tibet. The Tibet Travel Permit is different from a Chinese Group Visa as it needs to be returned to the Tibet Tourism Bureau after the tour ends and cannot be used again. We will need your passport, Chinese Group Visa, and passport-size photos to apply for the permit. After receiving these documents, it will generally take 7-10 working days. So, it is essential to plan accordingly and apply in advance before the intended travel dates. You will receive the permit after you cross the border at Gyirong Port. Remember that you will need three permits depending on the travel plan and itinerary. These documents are briefly described below for your better understanding.

  • Tibet Travel Permit: You must have this permit to enter Tibet. However, this document does not grant access to the restricted areas of the region.
  • Alien's Travel Permit: This permit is essential if you plan to extend your tour and visit the nearby areas. These destinations include Shigatse, Shannan, Ngari, Tsedang, etc.
  • Tibet Military Permit: It takes two weeks to obtain this permit, which grants you access to restricted areas such as Nyingchi and Chamdo.

Note: To ensure a smooth travel experience, contact us as it enables us to guide and assist you through the permit application process.

Travel Insurance is an integral part of the tour.

We highly recommend you get travel insurance for the overland Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour. It is also advisable to check the insurance policy and ensure it covers emergency air evacuation and medical services. Moreover, consider an insurance policy allowing you to contact your doctor in your homeland for an immediate solution. This will ensure the coverage of accidents, theft, and medical emergencies during the tour. Besides, keep in mind that accident insurance is different from travel insurance. Thus, it will not cover aspects such as flight delays, cancellations, and loss of items.

Important Tips to Know

  • Purchase international travel insurance to protect yourself from start to finish.
  • Carry Chinese currency, as you might have to pay in cash and apply for reimbursement later with the insurance agency.
  • Carry a copy of your travel insurance during the tour.
  • Consider including protection of your travel documents, properties, and luggage in the insurance policy.

Grab this equipment for Convenient Travel.

Lhasa is located in a considerably high-altitude region of Tibet and is characterized by unpredictable weather patterns. You might experience chilly wind and even a little downpour of rain during the trip. So, to protect yourself from them, you will need proper gear and equipment to assist you. We also advise you to pack the minimum and carry what is only necessary. The following are some gear and equipment that you must have for the tour.

  • Clothes and Footwear: T-shirts, Hoodies, Fleece, Long-sleeve Jackets or Windbreakers, Thick Down Jackets, Windproof Pants, Sports Footwear or Climbing Shoes, Breathable Socks, and Undergarments.
  • Toiletry: Sun block cream, Toothpaste, Toothbrush & Soap, Skin moisturizer, Toilet tissue rolls, Antibacterial hand gel, Wet wipes, Hand mirror, Wide tooth comb, Lip balm.
  • Accessories: alarm clock, Camera with extra batteries, Torch with batteries, notebook and pen, UV-protected sunglasses, Thermos flask, Swiss army knife, Power bank.
  • Medical Kits: Paracetamol, Multivitamin pills, Muscle relaxant, Antibiotic, Dimox, Water purification Tablet, Band-aid, Knee-cap, Energy Cereal Bars, Glucose tablets.

Recommended Tibet Tours

The Kathmandu to Lhasa overland tour is an exciting journey that combines adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural immersion. Here are our top picks for travelers seeking similar itineraries with parallel travel experiences.

  • Short Tibet Lhasa Tour - 4 Days
  • Tibet Saga Dawa Festival Tour - 8 Days
  • Mount Kailash Charan Sparsh Tour - 15 Days
  • Kailash Mansarovar Luxury Tour - 15 Days
  • Tibet Everest Base Camp Tour - 10 Days

Why Book the Tibet Overland Tour With Outfitter Nepal?

We Offer Private & Customizable Package

Traveling overland from Kathmandu to Lhasa and back to Kathmandu along the Sino-Nepal Friendship Highway is a remarkable journey. You can further enhance the travel experience by choosing your preferred route and including additional destinations. Such an extended journey allows you to explore hidden gems and iconic landmarks throughout Nepal and Tibet. We offer you the flexibility of customizing your own private or group package. This service we provide to our clients ensures an unforgettable journey through diverse and breathtaking landscapes.

Travel with Experienced Local Guides and Drivers

We are an incredible team of over 30 members, comprising local Tibetan guides. Their expertise and knowledge will make your tour in Tibet an enjoyable and relaxing experience. The guides who will assist you along the trail are natives of the region and will have abundant knowledge of the local culture and history. This makes the overland tour not only a spiritual journey but also an educational one. On the other hand, our skilled drivers, with years of experience operating vehicles in Tibet, are well-acquainted with the routes. These professional personnel will ensure your overland journey from Nepal to Tibet is safe and enjoyable. Moreover, as safety is our utmost priority for your travel, the tour buses are checked and sent for maintenance regularly. For further convenience, we will also provide you with a first-aid box and oxygen canister if unforeseen circumstances happen.

Personalized Services with Excellent Reviews

Whether you travel on a group or private tour with your friends and family, we provide exceptional hospitality and service. From the beginning of the Tibet overland journey to its end, we will commit to ensuring a smooth and pleasant journey. We will handle everything, from arranging comfortable accommodations and dining to obtaining the travel permit. Also, our staff members will always assist you if you need any help. Contact us directly if you need additional support or guidance during the journey.

How far in advance should I book the tour from Kathmandu to Lhasa?

To ensure a smooth journey, we suggest you book the overland tour at least 20 days before you arrive in Nepal. The earlier you book, the better you are prepared for this remarkable journey.

What are the main destinations covered in the tour?

Some major destinations covered in the overland Lhasa tour included Shigatse, Gyantse, and the Sakya Monastery.

What are the road conditions like?

The road conditions on this tour depend on the route and weather conditions. You should also be prepared for any delays caused by the road construction due to adverse weather.

Are there restrictions on photography or specific sites?

Yes, photography is restricted to some religiously sensitive areas. We suggest you ask the tour guide before you take pictures during the tour.

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