Embark on an unforgettable 12-day journey from Kathmandu to Lhasa—an epic overland tour that blends breathtaking Himalayan scenery with rich Tibetan culture, all at an exceptional value. Perfect for travelers seeking both adventure and insight, this group tour begins in Nepal’s vibrant capital and leads you deep into the spiritual heart of Tibet.
Your adventure kicks off with a scenic drive to the border town of Kerung, winding through lush green hills and terraced landscapes. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of snow-capped peaks shimmering under the Himalayan sun—right from your window.
As you cross into Tibet, the pace slows, and the air turns crisp. Over the next several days, explore a land where ancient traditions still thrive. From the quiet serenity of remote monasteries to the grandeur of the Potala Palace—once the seat of the Dalai Lama—each stop reveals a different facet of Tibet’s deeply spiritual identity.
The final stretch of your journey brings you to Lhasa, Tibet’s timeless capital. Spend three immersive days discovering sacred temples, ornate monasteries, and centuries-old works of art. Lhasa is more than a city—it’s a living museum of devotion and resilience, where echoes of the medieval past meet the pulse of modern Tibetan life.
This overland experience is more than just a tour—it’s a journey into the soul of the Himalayas.
12 days / 11 nights Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland trip
Tibet Region: A Pilgrimage for the Soul
Highlights
- Travel from Kathmandu to Lhasa through breathtaking mountain passes, valleys, and remote landscapes.
- Begin with a scenic drive to the Nepal-Tibet border via Kerung, easing altitude adjustment while enjoying stunning views.
- Visit historic towns like Tingri, Shigatse, and Gyantse, each rich in Tibetan culture, architecture, and history.
- Explore centuries-old spiritual sites and landmarks that reflect the deep-rooted traditions of Tibetan Buddhism.
- See high-altitude lakes and panoramic Himalayan vistas that showcase Tibet’s rugged natural beauty.
- Discover iconic landmarks such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street, immersing yourself in Lhasa’s religious and cultural life.
- Perfect for travelers seeking a combination of scenic landscapes, cultural depth, and spiritual insight.
- Enjoy a smooth, guided journey with carefully paced travel and enriching experiences throughout.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at the airport, our representatives will greet you warmly and transfer you to your hotel. After freshening up, you’ll visit our office to complete the visa process.
After breakfast, your guide will take you on a cultural tour of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Kathmandu Durbar Square (Hanuman Dhoka): Once the royal palace of the Malla and Shah kings, this historic square features courtyards, temples, and intricate Newar architecture. Though damaged during the 2015 earthquake, its historical and artistic significance remains intact.
- Swayambhunath Stupa: Perched atop a hill, this ancient stupa offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. Pilgrims ascend before dawn to circumambulate the site, passing the iconic gilded Vajra and guardian lions.
- Patan Durbar Square: Located in Lalitpur, this square is famed for its Newar architecture, tiled courtyards, temples, and palaces. Most structures date back to the 1600s.
Return to the hotel and rest.
Today’s exploration includes three more iconic heritage sites:
- Boudhanath Stupa: Located on the northeastern outskirts of Kathmandu, Boudhanath is one of the world’s largest spherical stupas. Surrounded by Tibetan monasteries, it remains a spiritual hub for Tibetan Buddhists.
- Pashupatinath Temple: Situated on the Bagmati River, this is Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It attracts over a million devotees during the Maha Shivaratri festival.
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Located 13 km east of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur boasts several distinct squares filled with exquisite temples and traditional Newari architecture.
After the tour, return to the hotel and relax.
Today is a rest day to prepare for tomorrow’s long drive. Your Tibet visa will be issued. You can explore Thamel, a vibrant district filled with shops, restaurants, and street vendors selling everything from handicrafts to trekking gear. Enjoy some shopping and local cuisine before retiring for the night.
Begin an early morning drive through scenic rural landscapes to the Nepal–Tibet border at Rasuwagadhi. After completing immigration formalities, continue uphill to Kerung, a Tibetan border town. Meet your Tibetan guide and stay overnight at a local guesthouse.
Travel across the vast Tibetan Plateau, crossing the 5,050m Lalunga Pass. Weather permitting, enjoy views of Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201m), Mt. Shishapangma (8,012m), and Mt. Everest (8,848m). Overnight in Shegar at a guesthouse.
Drive through dramatic landscapes and cross Gyatchu La Pass (5,220m), en route to Shigatse, home to the Panchen Lama. Check in at your hotel and rest.
After breakfast, visit Tashilhunpo Monastery and explore Shigatse’s local bazaar. Continue to Gyantse through Tibet’s largest agricultural region. Visit the Khumbum Stupa and Phalkor Monastery. Overnight at hotel.
Cross two scenic mountain passes—Karo La (5,010m) and Khamba La (4,794m)—and pass the turquoise Yamdrok Tso Lake. Cross the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra) River and enjoy distant views of the Potala Palace. Overnight in Lhasa.
Spend two full days exploring Lhasa’s cultural landmarks:
- Potala Palace: Towering over Lhasa from Red Hill, the palace is a UNESCO site and former residence of the Dalai Lamas. Built in the 7th century and reconstructed in the 17th century, it symbolizes Tibetan Buddhism.
- Jokhang Temple: The spiritual heart of Tibet, built by King Songtsen Gampo, this sacred site draws pilgrims from all over the region.
- Barkhor Street: A historic circular street surrounding Jokhang Temple, filled with prayer wheels, shops, and Tibetan pilgrims.
- Drepung Monastery: Once the largest monastery in Tibet, located on Gambo Utse hill. It was founded in 1416 by a disciple of Tsongkhapa.
- Sera Monastery: Another major Gelugpa institution, known for its debating monks and picturesque setting at the foot of Tatipu Hill.
Overnight in Lhasa.
Your Tibet tour concludes today. Depart from Lhasa by flight or train to Kathmandu or another destination in China. We can assist with booking your onward travel. Early transfer to Gonggar Airport for your departure.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Transfers by van or tourist bus
- Budget hotel and guesthouse accommodations on a twin-sharing, bed-and-breakfast basis
- Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu and Tibet with an experienced English-speaking guide
- Entry fees to monasteries and heritage sites as per the itinerary
- All airport and hotel transfers
- Tibet Travel Permit
Cost Excludes
- Lunch and dinner
- Nepal and China visa fees
- Airfare from Lhasa to Kathmandu or train ticket to next destination
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
FAQs
Tibet lies in southwestern China and shares borders with India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar. It traditionally consists of three provinces: U-Tsang, Kham, and Amdo. While Tibetans from these regions identify as one people, each area has its own dialect and cultural traits.
Under Chinese administration, Tibet has been divided and merged into various Chinese provinces. When China refers to “Tibet,” it means only the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), which includes U-Tsang and parts of Kham. The rest of Kham is now part of Sichuan and Yunnan, while Amdo is split between Qinghai, Gansu, and Sichuan. Covering about 1.22 million km², Tibet accounts for 12.8% of China’s land area. With its dramatic landscapes, deep-rooted Tibetan Buddhism, and proximity to Nepal, Tibet is a top destination for trekking and mountaineering.
Tibet follows China Standard Time (GMT+8), which is 6 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.
To visit Tibet, you need both a Chinese Visa and a Tibet Travel Permit.
- If entering via Nepal, you will need a Group Visa and the Tibet Travel Permit, arranged through a travel agency.
- If entering from mainland China, apply for a Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa) first. You will still need a Tibet Travel Permit, even with a valid Chinese visa.
To get the permit, you must pre-book a guide and private transport for any travel outside Lhasa. Additional permits may be needed for certain regions, all arranged by your tour operator.
Required Documents:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Chinese Visa (for entry from China)
- Group Visa (for entry from Nepal)
- Tibet Travel Permit (mandatory for all foreign travelers)
- Additional Permits (for restricted areas):
- Travel Permit – for closed regions
- Military Permit – for sensitive areas
- By Road:
- Sichuan-Tibet Highway (Chengdu–Lhasa)
- Qinghai-Tibet Highway (Xining–Lhasa)
- Yunnan-Tibet Highway
- Xinjiang-Tibet Highway
- China-Nepal Highway (only international road route)
- By Air:
- Flights to Lhasa require a stopover in China or Nepal.
- The only international flight is between Kathmandu and Lhasa.
- Lhasa Gonggar Airport is about 98 km from Lhasa city.
- By Rail:
- The Qinghai-Tibet Railway (Golmud to Lhasa) spans 1,142 km and connects Tibet with mainland China.
Due to its high elevation, Tibet generally has cold weather, especially at night and early morning. Lhasa has cool but sunny days, with chilly evenings. Warm clothing is essential.
The best time to visit Tibet is from April to early November, with August and September being ideal. Lhasa has milder weather year-round and is suitable for travel in all seasons. May, June, and September are peak months in eastern Tibet. Sunlight is intense, so sun protection is important.
No. Due to strict regulations, foreign travelers cannot apply for Tibet permits independently or travel solo in Tibet. All travel must be arranged through a licensed travel agency, which will organize your guide, permits, and transportation.
Yes. Tibet’s high elevation can cause altitude sickness, especially for those coming from lowland areas. Symptoms include headache, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Most people adjust within a few hours or days. Consult your doctor about AMS medication, and your guide will assist if symptoms arise.
ATMs are available in Lhasa and Shigatse, but may be hard to find in smaller towns. It’s best to carry sufficient cash outside major cities.
Tibet uses the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Currency exchange is available at the Bank of China. Banks are closed on weekends. Credit cards and traveler’s cheques are generally not accepted outside Lhasa.
No. As long as travelers stay with their guided tour and avoid political discussions, they should not encounter any issues.
Recommended vaccines include:
- Chickenpox (Varicella)
- Diphtheria & Tetanus
- Hepatitis A & B
- Influenza
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Pneumonia
- Polio
- Rabies
- Tuberculosis
- Typhoid
- Yellow Fever (if traveling from an affected area)
Not really. Visitors are accompanied by English-speaking guides, and most staff at major hotels can communicate in English. Common languages include Tibetan, Chinese, English, and Nepali.
Yes, but it’s limited. Internet is available in Lhasa, Shigatse, Gyantse, and Tsedang through cafés and hotels. Access may be restricted or slow in remote areas.
The 12 Days Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour offers one of the most scenic and culturally rich journeys in the Himalayas. Starting in Nepal’s lively capital, Kathmandu, and ending in the ancient city of Lhasa, this tour takes you through high mountain passes, beautiful valleys, and spiritual landscapes. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty and deep cultural immersion into both Nepalese and Tibetan life.
The adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to the Nepal-Tibet border at Kerung. As you wind through lush hills and dramatic landscapes, you’ll enjoy sweeping Himalayan views. This gradual ascent helps with acclimatization while providing insight into the local environment and culture.
Once in Tibet, the journey unfolds through towns like Tingri, Shigatse, and Gyantse—each offering its own historical and cultural gems. Along the way, you’ll visit ancient monasteries, historic fortresses, and serene high-altitude lakes such as Yamdrok Tso. The route is filled with stunning vistas and authentic encounters with Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
The tour’s highlight is your stay in Lhasa, Tibet’s spiritual heart. Over three days, you’ll explore iconic landmarks like the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and the bustling Barkhor Street. This time allows for a deeper appreciation of Lhasa’s religious significance, history, and vibrant local life.
Whether you’re drawn by adventure, culture, or spirituality, the 12 Days Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour promises an unforgettable Himalayan experience. It’s a perfect combination of comfort, discovery, and awe-inspiring scenery—offering a unique glimpse into life at the roof of the world.
Visa Information
To fly into Tibet from Nepal, you need both a Chinese Group Visa and a Tibet Travel Permit. These can be arranged in Kathmandu through a travel agency. A regular Chinese visa is not sufficient for entry into Tibet. Even travelers with a valid Chinese visa must apply for a Tibet Travel Permit.
For entry into Tibet from within China, a Tibet Travel Permit is also mandatory. Additionally, all trips outside Lhasa require a licensed guide, pre-arranged private transport, and may need additional permits, which your travel agency will handle.
Required Documents
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months.
- Chinese Visa: Required for entry into mainland China. Can be obtained from a Chinese embassy or authorized travel service.
- Group Visa: Required for travelers entering Tibet from Nepal. It also permits onward travel to mainland China. Note: If you have a Chinese visa in your passport, it will be canceled once the group visa is issued.
- Tibet Entry Permit: Issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. Mandatory for all foreigners entering Tibet.
- Additional Permits (for restricted areas):
- Travel Permit: Required for visiting closed areas within Tibet.
- Military Permit: Needed to access sensitive border or military regions.
Weather Information
Tibet’s weather resembles mainland China’s but is colder due to its altitude. Summers are generally sunny and mild during the day, with cool to chilly nights, especially at higher elevations. Winters are cold but receive little snow, and Lhasa enjoys sunshine year-round.
Frost is common for over six months annually, and some high-altitude lakes freeze from October to March. Conditions vary by region, but Lhasa’s lower valley location makes it one of the more comfortable destinations year-round.
Safety Guidelines
Follow these tips to stay safe and comfortable during your trip:
- Always carry at least two copies of your Tibet Permit.
- Secure your belongings and carry important items and cash with you.
- Inform your guide immediately if you feel unwell or experience altitude-related symptoms.
- Allow time to rest and acclimatize upon arrival in Lhasa—don’t rush into sightseeing.
- Avoid excessive bargaining, and never buy wildlife products or unknown traditional medicines.
- Avoid heavy drinking, smoking, and physical exertion at high altitudes.
- Respect local customs and religious practices—avoid culturally sensitive topics or actions.
- Prepare for alpine conditions like sunburn and sudden temperature changes.
- Always carry any required medications, as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not travel alone at night or explore unfamiliar areas without informing your guide.
- Cash is the primary mode of payment, so bring sufficient small denominations.
- In case of emergency, contact your guide promptly.
- Avoid carrying any materials related to the Dalai Lama or “Free Tibet.”
- Refrain from bringing guidebooks specifically about Tibet.
