Kathmandu - Lhasa - Kathmandu overland tour itinerary

Day 01: Kathmandu (1,300m) – Kerung Border (2,700m) | 145 km | 6-7 Hours’ Drive
Early in the morning, embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to the Nepal-Tibet border at Rasuwagadhi/Kerung. The journey takes you through lush hills, winding roads, and picturesque villages along the Trishuli River. Upon reaching the border, complete the necessary immigration formalities at both Nepalese and Chinese checkpoints. After crossing into Tibet, continue the drive to Kerung (Gyirong), a small yet culturally rich town surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes.

Day 02: Kerung – Tingri (4,300m) – Shigatse (3,900m) | 490 km | 9 Hours’ Drive
After breakfast, begin an exhilarating journey across the Tibetan plateau, one of the highest plateaus in the world. The road gradually ascends, offering breathtaking views of vast landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and yak-grazing meadows. En route, pass through Tingri, a town with magnificent views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest (8,848m) on a clear day. Continue driving and cross Gyatchu La Pass (5,220m)—the highest point on this route—before reaching Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet.

Day 03: Shigatse – Gyantse – Lhasa (3,650m) | 350 km | 7-8 Hours’ Drive
In the morning, visit the historic Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of Panchen Lama, which houses impressive golden-roofed chapels and a giant Buddha statue. Afterward, drive towards Gyantse, a charming town known for its well-preserved Tibetan culture. Explore the Khumbum Stupa and Phalkor Monastery, known for their impressive architecture and ancient murals.
The journey to Lhasa continues over two high passes:

• Karo La Pass (5,010m) with stunning glaciers,
• Kamba La Pass (4,749m) offering breathtaking views of Yamdrok-Tso Lake, one of Tibet’s most sacred and picturesque lakes.

By evening, arrive in Lhasa, the spiritual and cultural heart of Tibet.

Day 04-05: Exploring Lhasa – Full-Day Sightseeing Tours
Spend two incredible days exploring Lhasa’s iconic landmarks and sacred monasteries:

• Jokhang Temple – Tibet’s holiest temple, a revered pilgrimage site filled with chanting monks and butter lamps.
• Barkhor Bazaar – A bustling traditional market where you can experience Tibetan culture, buy souvenirs, and observe daily life.
• Potala Palace – The grand winter palace of the Dalai Lama, offering a glimpse into Tibet’s history with its impressive golden rooftops and stunning views of Lhasa.
• Drepung Monastery – Once the largest monastery in Tibet, housing thousands of monks in its golden era.
• Sera Monastery – Famous for its lively monk debates, where monks engage in philosophical discussions in a unique, animated manner.

Day 06: Lhasa – Lhatse/Tingri | 520 km | 9-10 Hours’ Drive
After breakfast, begin the return journey towards Lhatse or Tingri. The drive retraces part of the Friendship Highway, offering another opportunity to admire Tibet’s vast landscapes, ancient monasteries, and traditional nomadic settlements.

Day 07: Tingri – Kerung | 280 km | 6-7 Hours’ Drive
Enjoy the scenic drive from Tingri to Kerung, passing through high-altitude mountain passes, pristine valleys, and small Tibetan hamlets. This journey offers stunning views of the Himalayas and unique glimpses of rural Tibetan life.

Day 08: Kerung Border – Kathmandu | 395 km | 7-8 Hours’ Drive
After an early breakfast, drive to the Nepal-Tibet border at Kerung. Complete exit formalities at Chinese immigration before crossing back into Nepal. From Rasuwagadhi, continue the journey through scenic hills and winding roads, eventually arriving in Kathmandu by late afternoon.

Cost Includes

• Travel alien permit fee of Tibet
• Local Tibetan English speaking tourist guide
• Entrance tickets for sightseein places and monasteries As per the itinerary
• Hotel accommodation, Budget Hotels in the cities and guest house in remote areas on BB basis - Twin/double sharing bedroom
• Transportation by private vehicle (jeep or bus as per the group size)
• Oxygen incase needed
• Kathmandu to Tibet Border and Tibet Border to Kathmandu by a private jeep

Cost Excludes

• Lunch and dinner along the trip
• Photography charges
• Any cost arising from Landslides, road blockage & additional transportation cost.
• Any expenses in Nepal side beside the drive from Kathmandu to Kerung border and back to Kathmandu
• Tibet Group visa fee
• Personal travel insurance, emergency rescue evacuation cost & other personal expenses tips, donation, laundry, call and bottle drinks