Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour

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Overview

The Kathmandu to Lhasa overland tour is a thrilling journey that takes you from the vibrant capital of Nepal to the culturally rich capital of Tibet, Lhasa. The Kathmandu to Lhasa overland tour itinerary is 8 days long and allows you to immerse yourself in the unique culture, ancient traditions, and breathtaking landscapes of the region. 

The official journey begins with a scenic drive from the beautiful city of Kathmandu to Rasuwagadhi. Rasuwagadhi is the last destination in Nepal. From there, we head towards Gyirong town. It takes approximately 8–9 hours to reach the town. There, we will pass through the small customs and immigration facilities. 

In addition, the route then passes through popular destinations, including Everest Base Camp, Tingri, Lhatse, Shigatse, Gyantse, and eventually Lhasa City. The overall tour concludes with a city tour and sightseeing in Lhasa. After that, you will go to your desired location at your own pace. 

Along the journey from Kathmandu to Lhasa by road, you will be blessed with stunning views of the landscapes and the vibrant Tibetan culture. The Kathmandu-Lhasa road distance is 1,100 kilometers. Along the way, you will be exposed to the perfect natural beauty that gives relief from the hustling and bustling city life. 

One of the major highlights of the tour is Everest Base Camp, located at an elevation of 5,200 m. It is the highest point that you will reach during the overall tour. It gives you the best feeling to be at the foot of the world’s highest peak. 

The other highlight and climax of the tour is the city tour of Lhasa City. Lhasa City is a vibrant city. You can visit so many places in Lhasa, including Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Norbulingka palaces. These sites are on the list of UNESCO world heritage sites. 

The Kathmandu to Lhasa overland tour package is perfectly designed to cater to all the wanderlust of travel enthusiasts. The itinerary includes time for rest and acclimatization, which is a must when traveling to an altitude of over 5000 meters. 

Also, proper preparations are necessary for this tour. Carry necessary medications, be aware of the altitude sickness symptoms, stay hydrated, and have sound sleep during the tour. Even though most of the journey is on the Jeep, exposure to the high-altitude weather conditions makes you sick. 

For the proper budgeting of your tour and to know about the possible extra expenses, you need to read the Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour Costs, which include and exclude sections. It will help in budgeting the extra expenses, including travel insurance, snacks, alcoholic and soft drinks and so on.

The Kathmandu to Lhasa overland tour ticket price ranges from $1,100 to $1,400 per person. The prices vary depending on your chosen accommodation standards, travel season, and customized itinerary. There is a limited-time offer for group travelers too. 

So, overall, the Kathmandu to Lhasa overland tour price is not that much, considering the fun and thrill that you will get during the tour. Also check out the other Tibet tour packages from Nepal, including the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, the Kailash and Guge Kingdom Tour, and the Lhasa Kailash Kathmandu Tour. 

Tour Highlights

  • scenic drive through the nepalese countryside to the Kerung border
  • Stunning views of the landscape, including Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Everest and other surrounding peaks
  • Visit to the ancient monasteries, including Tashilhunpo Monastery, Sera Monastery, Drepung monastery, Phalkhor Monastery, Khumbum monastery and so on
  • Explore the stunning Yamdrok-Tso Lake
  • Visit to the UNESCO world heritage site, Potala palace
  • Visit to the sacred Jokhang temple
  • Participate in the Barkhor Pilgrimage circuit

Key Destinations of the tour

  • Rasuwa Gadhi Fort

Rasuwa Dadhi Fort is an ancient fort located in the Rasuwa district of Nepal. This fort is part of the Langtang national park. There is diverse natural flora and fauna near the fort. It was constructed in 1855 during the Rana Dynasty's rule in Nepal. The fort was the site of the historical three-day Sino-Nepalese War of 1792. 

  • Everest Advanced Base Camp 

The Everest north base camp is located on the Tibetan side of Mount Everest. It is also a popular destination for trekkers who are trekking from the Tibetan side. It is at an elevation of 5150 meters above mean sea level. This camp is easily accessible by vehicle via a paved road from Tingrii town. 
The base camp is near the Rongbuk glacier. The visitors can see the dramatic ice formations and glacial landscapes. Also, visitors can witness stunning views of the surrounding peaks and unique glacial features like ice pinnacles and crevasses. 

  • Lhasa City

Lhasa is the capital city of the Tibet autonomous region in China, located at an elevation of 3650 meters. The city has a rich history and cultural significance. Some of the popular religious sites are Jokhang Temple, Potala Palace and several other monasteries, including Tashi Lhunpo, Sera, Drepung and Pelkor. 

The major economic drivers of Lhasa city are small-scale industries, tourism, and agriculture. Since 1980, the city has seen rapid modernization and development. Due to the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, a large number of tourists visit every year.

  • Potala Palace

Potala Palace is an ancient pilgrimage site located in Lhasa, Tibet. It is one of the Unesco world heritage sites. This palace is divided in two main parts: the white palace and the red palace. The red palace is dedicated to various religious functions, while the white palace was the residence of the Dalai Lama. There are altogether 13 stories, over 1000 rooms, 10,000 shrines and 200,000 statues. Every year, a large number of tourists come to visit this ancient palace. 

  • Jokhang Temple

Jokhang Temple is an ancient and spiritual site located in the heart of Lhasa, Tibet. In the seventh century, the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo constructed it. The temple is considered one of the unique and oldest buildings in Lhasa. The temple is one of UNESCO's world heritage sites and features a 12-year-old statue of the Lord Buddha, popularly named Jowo Shakyamuni. The locals believe that the temple has been blessed by Lord Buddha himself. 

  • Yamdrok-Tso Lake

Yamdrok Tso Lake is one of the four holiest lakes in tibet. It is a popular pilgrimage site and a large number of devotees come to walk along its perimeter. The turquoise waters of the lake change color with the angle of the sun. The lake is surrounded by several snow-capped peaks. 

Several small streams feed the lake, which has an outlet stream at its far western end. In addition, the lake is fan-shaped. It is spread to the south but is narrowed up to the north with an alpine and highly cracked lakeshore. The lake freezes in winter. 

  • Norbulingka palaces

Norbulingka palace was built in 1755 Ad. The palace is recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site. The palace has over 400 rooms of various sizes. This place is the hotspot of the Tibetan arts of architecture, paintings, statues and sculpture. 

The palace complex features the Kelzang Potrang (palace), Chensel Potrang, and Tagten Migyur Podrang. The color, style, and decoration of the complex feature traditional Tibetan architecture. The layout and overall structure of the palace reflect Han-style architecture. 

  • Gyirong Town

Gyirong town is a settlement in the southern part of Gyirong County, within the Tibetan autonomous region of China. This town has been an important gateway between Nepal and Tibet for international travelers and traders. The town is home to the Daman people. The area has ties to the ancient Tibetan empire and significant events during the Sino-Nepalese War. 

  • Tashilhunpo Monastery

Tashilhunpo Monastery is located in Shigatse, tibet. It is one of the largest monasteries of the region. It was founded in 1447 by the first Dalai Lama, Gedun Drub. The monastery is known for its impressive architecture and features Maitreya Chapel and Kelsang Temple.  

The visitors can see traditional Buddhist practices like scripture chanting and debates among monks in the hall of the tour. This monastery reflects the deep-rooted spirituality and history of Tibetan Buddhism.

  • Sera Monastery

Sera Monastery is one of the popular monasteries in Tibet where Buddhist teachings are taught and practiced. The monastery is also known as a place for spiritual practice. A well-known Je Tsongkhapa disciple named Jamchen Chojey Sakya Yeshe founded it in 1419.

The history behind the name of this monastery is unique. The Sera was the wild flower that bloomed on the hill behind it during the construction of the monastery. So, the monks decided to name the monastery "Sera Monastery.". The monastery can be characterized by the Assembly Hall, prayer halls, chapels, sand mandalas, and intricate rock paintings of deities and Buddhas on the surrounding hills. The monks used to debate daily in the courtyard from 3-5 pm. 

  • Drepung monastery

Jamyang Choge Tashi Palden founded Drepung Monastery in the year 1416 AD. It is divided into seven colleges. The monastery’s architecture features stunning white buildings spread out over the lower slopes of Mount Gambo Utse. The major highlights of the monastery is its unique architecture, buddhist debates, Drepung kora and the Drepung Shoton festival.  

  • Phalkhor Monastery

Phalkhor monastery was founded in the 15th century. It is located in Gyantse, Tibet. The complex includes Kumbum stupa. The monastery is characterized by its tangled designs and vibrant murals. Pilgrims and tourists visit the monastery to explore its rich history and artistic heritage. The monastery preserves Tibetan culture and religion. 

  • Khumbum monastery

Khumbum monastery is an important Tibetan buddhist monastery founded in 1583 AD. It is located in the Huang Zhong County of Xining, Qinghai Province, China. The meaning behind the name ‘Khumbum’ is one hundred thousand enlightening bodies of Buddha. 

The unique architectural style of the monastery attracts a large number of pilgrims and tourists every year. There are various temples and chapels in the complex premises. The various buddhist festivals are celebrated and various events are held in this monastery throughout the year.  

WHY CHOOSE MYSTIC ADVENTURE HOLIDAYS FOR THE KATHMANDU TO LHASA OVERLAND TOUR?

3S: Safety, Success, and Satisfaction

Booking a Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour package with Mystic Adventure Holidays offers superior service and benefits. Here's why:

Planning your trip with Mystic Adventure Holidays means paying the lowest cost with no commission fees. Additionally, you'll benefit from:

  • Client Safety: Our trips are organized with the utmost safety in mind.
  • Best Price Guarantee: Ensuring you get the best value.
  • Free Transfers: Complimentary airport-to-hotel and return transfers in a private vehicle.
  • Expert Guides: Trained, government-licensed local guides with extensive route knowledge.
  • Support for Locals: Helping local communities earn a living through tourism.
  • Health Monitoring: Oximeters to monitor oxygen levels during high-altitude tours.
  • Medical Preparedness: Guides equipped with medical kits to handle any situations that may arise. 
  • Essential Gear: Arrangements for sleeping bags and down jackets.
  • Free Storage: Secure storage at our office for extra luggage during your tour.
  • Convenience: Duffel bags for transferring items to be carried during the journey.
  • Porter Service: A free porter to help carry your heavy bags.

By choosing Mystic Adventure Holidays, you ensure a safe, successful, and satisfying adventure in the Himalayas.

Itinerary

At Mystic Adventure Holidays, our intention is always to follow the Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour itinerary. However, due to the nature of travel, we may need to make slight changes because of unforeseen circumstances such as weather-related cancellations or delays of domestic flights, natural disasters like landslides, newly enacted laws, political unrest, or trekkers' health issues, including altitude sickness. While the itinerary is brief and fixed, it also includes flexible areas. Therefore, we advise travelers to allow a few extra days in Nepal.

We highly recommend that you arrive one day before the trip starts to rest and purchase any necessary clothing, gear, and equipment for the hike. You can also use this extra day for a sightseeing tour in Kathmandu, acclimatizing, or rescheduling international flights in case of potential weather delays or domestic flight cancellations.

We appreciate your flexibility and look forward to providing you with an unforgettable adventure!

It is our regular day-to-day itinerary if you are looking for a customized itinerary. Don't hesitate to contact us.

Trip PlanExpand all

In the morning, we will pick you up at your hotel in Kathmandu. Then, we will drive to the Sino-Nepal border. The route passes through the small towns, including Dhulikhel, Bardibas, and Galchhi. The path continues through the Araniko Highway. 

Along the way, you will get to see the views of the terraced fields, mountains, small settlements, and river valleys. The road from Bardibas to Galchhi is more hilly, with narrower and more challenging paths, while the road to Rasuwa Gadhi from Falchhi is rugged and rough, with some steep inclines. 

On the way to Rasuwagadhi, the scenes of the deep gorges and terraced hillsides make the journey amazing. Upon reaching Rasuwa Gadhi, we will check into the guesthouse. We will relax and enjoy the local meal at the guesthouse. 
 

Max Altitude: 1,800m Meals: Welcome DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 5 hrsDistance: 120 km

After having breakfast, we will head towards the Gyirong border crossing. The journey offers stunning vistas of the river valleys, himalayan foothills, and Tibetan landscapes. Upon reaching the sino-Nepal border, we will stop for a while to complete the necessary border formalities, including immigration checks and visa verifications. 

Following the immigration checks, we may need to go through additional customs checks. It is for general vehicle inspections and document checks. After the immigration and customs formality, we will drive towards Gyirong. 

You can see the transition of the landscape to the rugged terrain and high-altitude plains. Along the way, you will also see Tibetan villages. Once we arrive in Gyirong, we will go straight to the guesthouse and check in. We will stay in Gyirong overnight.
 

Max Altitude: 2,700m Meals: Breakfast, lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 3 hrsDistance: 60 km

We will start our day with breakfast at the guesthouse in Gyirong. Then, we will begin our journey to Everest Base Camp. It is a 290-kilometer journey and involves driving through rugged mountainous terrain and crossing high-altitude passes. 

As we approach Everest Base Camp, the vistas of the Everest peak become more visible to naked eyes. Upon teaching EBC, we will spend some time there appreciating the stunning views of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks. 

Following the break at EBC, we will drive to Tingri. As we descend from the base camp, you can see the change in the landscape. On the way to Tingri, you will get to see the spacious views of the Tibetan plateau and its open spaces. Upon arrival in Tingri, we will go to the guesthouse, check in, and spend the night there. 
 

Max Altitude: 5,200m Meals: Breakfast, lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 10-12 hrsDistance: 310 km

Following breakfast, we will start our drive to Shigatse via Lhatse. The route from Tingri to Lhatse mostly goes through the high plains and mountainous terrain. Some sections of the route include twist-and-turn roads and changes in altitude. We will pass through several traditional Tibetan villages. 

We will take a small break upon reaching the Lhatse. It's time to stretch your legs, have lunch and explore the areas briefly. After having lunch, we will resume our journey to Shigatse. The route includes descending from high altitude and crossing through scenic valleys and plains. 

After arriving in Shigatse, we will go to our hotel and check in. In the evening, we will have dinner at a hotel and spend the evening resting and acclimatizing to the altitude. If you want, you can take a leisurely walk around the town. 
 

Max Altitude: 4,050m Meals: Breakfast, lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Standard HotelDuration: 8-9 hrsDistance: 320 km

In the morning, we will have breakfast at the hotel we stayed at last night. Then, we will begin our journey to Lhasa city via Gyantse. The drive to the Gyantse is a scenic journey with vistas of the countryside and rolling hills. 

Upon arrival in Gyantse, we will explore Pelkor Chode Monastery and Kumbum Stupa. If time permits, we will also visit Gyantse Fortress, from where we can enjoy the panoramic views of the town and surrounding areas. After that, we will have lunch in the restaurant. 

Then, we will resume our journey to Lhasa city. The road quality is generally good. The route we are driving includes high-altitude plains, river valleys, and rolling hills. Along the way, you will get to see the view of Yamdrok Lake. After arriving at the hotel in Lhasa, we will check in and take a rest.
 

Max Altitude: 3,950m Meals: Breakfast, lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Standard HotelDuration: 8-9 hrsDistance: 360 km

We will have our breakfast early in the morning. Then, we will leave for Potala Palace. It is a 10- to 20-mminute scenic drive. Upon reaching the palace, we will wait for security checks and ticketing. Then, we will explore the main parts of the palace, including the white palace, the red palace, and various chapels and halls. 

Following the exploration of Potala Palace, we will travel towards Jokhang Temple. It will take 10–15 minutes by taxi or car to reach the temple. If you want to experience Lhasa’s streets, we can walk to the temple. We will have to go through security checks and possibly wait in line. We will explore the temple complex and its surroundings. 

In the afternoon, we will go for a short walk on Barkhor Street. The area is easily navigable and pedestrian-friendly. On the street, we will stroll around the street and soak up the vibrant market atmosphere. You can do shopping there too. After the short walk, we will return to our accommodation, have a meal, and rest at night.
 

Max Altitude: 3,650m Meals: Breakfast, lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Standard HotelDuration: Full Day

Following breakfast, we will head towards Sera Monastery. The route will take us through Lhasa’s bustling streets and more residential areas. We will head north from the city center on Beijing East Road, following the signs for Sera Monastery. 

The residential areas near the monastery are a little quieter, and the roads become more rural as we approach the monastery. Upon reaching the monastery, we will park our vehicle and go through a security check. We will explore the monastery’s area. 

Then, we will head towards the Norbulingka Palace through the main roads of Lhasa. The path will take us to the various streets and neighborhoods. We will park the vehicle and go through security before entering the palace. After that, we will explore the gardens, buildings, and interior parts of the palace. 

We will go to the local restaurant for lunch. After lunch, we will start our journey to the Drepung Monastery. The drive will take us to the western outskirts of Lhasa. We can see the transition of the terrain becoming more hilly and open. We will explore the monastery area upon reaching and returning to our hotel. 

Max Altitude: 3,650m Meals: Breakfast, lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Standard HotelDuration: Full Day

We will have a delicious farewell breakfast early in the morning. Then, we will check out of the hotel and head towards the airport. Along the way, we will get to see the transition from the bustling city environment to more open and rural landscapes. 

The roads to the airport are generally well maintained, with some curves and elevation changes. Facing the traffic, we will continue our drive, following the signs for Lhasa Gonggar airport.  Upon reaching the airport, you will proceed to the check-in counters for the airline. Then, you will go through the security checks and proceed to the departure gate. Then, you will fly to your desired destination. 
 

Max Altitude: 3,650m Meals: Breakfast onlyDuration: 1 to 1.5 hrsDistance: 60 km
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Essential Info

Accommodation and foods

The accommodations in Kathmandu are standard hotels with attached bathrooms. Kathmandu is the capital city so there are a variety of options available in terms of accommodations. The prices are also decent. There are also a wide range of hotel options available in Shigatse city. 

Places like Gyirong and Tingri offer guesthouse stays with basic amenities. In Gyantse, you can get decent guesthouses and hotels with necessary comforts. And in Lhasa, travelers can enjoy comfortable hotel accommodations with modern amenities. 

In contrast, the foods are mostly Tibetan dishes. The food items range from hotels to guest houses. In the major cities, including Kathmandu and Shigatse, travelers can get a variety of food items, including national as well as international dishes. 

Some of the popular dishes travelers get to have along the journey are tsampa (roasted barley flour), noodles, eggs and toast, Momos, Thukpa, Tibetan Bread, and many more. 

Permits and passes

The permits and passes required for this overland tour are listed below. 

  • Chinese visa

A visa is an important permit document that is needed before entering any country that doesn’t have an open border. For this, you will need the original passport, a visa application form, one passport-sized photograph, and a travel itinerary and reservation. 

After collecting the necessary documents, you will have to submit them at the Chinese visa application service center or at the Chinese embassy. It will take 7–14 working days for processing. Make sure that all the documents that you submitted are genuine to avoid visa cancellation problems.

  • Tibet Travel permit

The Tibet travel permit is an important document required for international tourists to enter Tibet. The Tibet travel permit is mandatory for all foreign travelers to board flights or trains to Lhasa and to check into hotels in Tibet. This permit is issued by the Tibetan Tourism Bureau and requires a travel agency to obtain it. 

The documents required for the permits are a valid passport, a Chinese visa, and a detailed itinerary of the trip to Tibet. It will take 3–5 working days to complete the process. The permit will be either sent to your hotel in china or handed to you by your tour guide upon your arrival in tibet. 

  • Alien’s Travel Permit

The alien’s travel permit is an important permit required for foreign travelers visiting restricted areas outside of Lhasa in Tibet. It is issued by the Public Security Bureau of Tibet. It becomes mandatory when visiting areas like Mount Everest Base Camp, Samye Monastery, and areas near borders. 

The documents required for this permit are a passport, a Chinese visa, and a Taiwan travel permit. After entering Tibet, your travel agencies arrange for it. It will take around 1-2 hours for processing. Without this permit, you cannot enter the restricted areas beyond Lhasa in Tibet. 

  • MIlitary permit

A military permit is required when visiting sensitive areas in Tibet, including military zones or borders. To obtain this permit, a licensed travel agency is needed; you cannot obtain this permit individually. The documents required for this permit are a valid passport, a Chinese visa, a Tibetan travel permit, and a travel itinerary. It will take approximately 7–14 days to process the application. 

Difficulty of the tour

The difficulty level of the overland tour from Kathmandu to Lhasa is moderate to slightly difficult. The difficulty is due to the high altitudes and long driving distances involved during touring. The maximum altitude that you will reach is 5200 meters at the Everest base camp so there is a risk of altitude sickness. 

Also, the tour includes long drives of up to 1000 km over five days, which is tiring unless you enjoy long drives. The Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour itinerary is thoughtfully designed to allow gradual acclimatization.  

Altitude Sickness and acclimatization

Altitude sickness is the major concern as the majority of the tour involves high altitude travel with maximum altitude up to 5200 m at the Everest base camp. That’s why careful planning with proper acclimatization is necessary. 

There are various ways to prevent altitude sickness, including staying hydrated, slow ascents, having sound sleep, eating carbohydrate-rich foods, and avoiding alcohol. These are the basic things that help to acclimate to the higher altitude. 

If you see symptoms like dizziness, headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath in you or in your partner, immediately inform them of the lower oxygen levels. Even Though the strategic planning of the overnight stops at lower elevations, the risks are still there. 

Also, carry acetazolamide (DDiamox) medication. It is helpful to aid in the acclimatization process. Also, consult your doctor before going for your trip. 

Tips to make the journey successful

  • Obtain required visa and permits in advance
  • Be aware of altitude sickness risks
  • Maintain good level of physical fitness
  • Pack clothes according to the weather conditions during the month you are traveling 
  • Respect local customs, traditions and practices
  • Book the tour with reputable agency
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