Tibet Overland - 8 days
Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland - the Classic Route
The lure of Lhasa, capital on the roof of the world, cannot be underestimated and it is truly a fascinating city, fully justifing its reputation. Dominated by the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Potala Palace and bustling with pilgrims circling the sacred Jokhang Temple it is a feast for the senses.
Cross the spectacular Khamba-La (pass) with the turquoise waters of the sacred lake, Yamdrok-tso, spread below. Prayer flags, glaciers, snow covered mountain ranges - the scenery is incredible!
Gyantse stands at the junction of trade routes from India and retains the feel of a Tibetan town. The forts and well-protected monasteries of Gyantse, Shigatse and Sakya reveal a not always peaceful history - the riches within, testament to past glory.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1
The flight to Lhasa from Chengdu or Kathmandu is spectacular. From Gongkar airport it is about 1½ hours’ drive to Lhasa, first along the Yarlung Tsangpo then into the Kyi Chu Valley.
Days 2-3
Two full days to explore this fantastic city on the roof of the world. The spiritual heart of Tibet is the Jokhang Temple and every morning is full of life as pilgrims bring offerings of butter and barley flour. The Potala Palace rises above the city and, more than any other sight, symbolizes the history and culture of Tibet. Nearby are the huge monastic universities of Drepung and Sera – still active institutions.
Day 4
Once an important trading town, Gyantse retains a feel of 'old' Tibet. Gyantse’s monastery – Pelkor Choede – and the justifiably famous Kumbum, are within the same complex. There may also be time to visit the dzong (fort) that towers above the town.
Day 5
In Shigatse, the great Tashilhunpo Monastery is the seat of the Panchen Lama, second only in importance to the Dalai Lama. Its numerous halls contain a 21.6-meter wooden statue of Maitreya, the future Buddha and elaborate, jewel encrusted reliquary chorten.
Day 6
Continue the scenic drive to Sakya. For much of the way the road follows the Yarlung Tsangpo (known as the Brahmaputra once it reaches India).
Day 7
High passes give a last, spectacular view of the Himalaya before reaching Nyalum, on the Tibetan Plateau.
Day 8
A long day as we dive, beginning with the steep descent down the gorge to Zhangmu-Kodari where we complete border formalities before continuing the winding descent to Kathmandu.
Tour cost includes
Not included in the tour cost
Note
Please note that the published itinerary is a statement of intent and to be used as a guide only. The guide in charge of your trip will alter the schedule if conditions necessitate and any/all such alterations are at the discretion of Shiva Outdoors and your guide.
The lure of Lhasa, capital on the roof of the world, cannot be underestimated and it is truly a fascinating city, fully justifing its reputation. Dominated by the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Potala Palace and bustling with pilgrims circling the sacred Jokhang Temple it is a feast for the senses.
Cross the spectacular Khamba-La (pass) with the turquoise waters of the sacred lake, Yamdrok-tso, spread below. Prayer flags, glaciers, snow covered mountain ranges - the scenery is incredible!
Gyantse stands at the junction of trade routes from India and retains the feel of a Tibetan town. The forts and well-protected monasteries of Gyantse, Shigatse and Sakya reveal a not always peaceful history - the riches within, testament to past glory.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1
The flight to Lhasa from Chengdu or Kathmandu is spectacular. From Gongkar airport it is about 1½ hours’ drive to Lhasa, first along the Yarlung Tsangpo then into the Kyi Chu Valley.
Days 2-3
Two full days to explore this fantastic city on the roof of the world. The spiritual heart of Tibet is the Jokhang Temple and every morning is full of life as pilgrims bring offerings of butter and barley flour. The Potala Palace rises above the city and, more than any other sight, symbolizes the history and culture of Tibet. Nearby are the huge monastic universities of Drepung and Sera – still active institutions.
Day 4
Once an important trading town, Gyantse retains a feel of 'old' Tibet. Gyantse’s monastery – Pelkor Choede – and the justifiably famous Kumbum, are within the same complex. There may also be time to visit the dzong (fort) that towers above the town.
Day 5
In Shigatse, the great Tashilhunpo Monastery is the seat of the Panchen Lama, second only in importance to the Dalai Lama. Its numerous halls contain a 21.6-meter wooden statue of Maitreya, the future Buddha and elaborate, jewel encrusted reliquary chorten.
Day 6
Continue the scenic drive to Sakya. For much of the way the road follows the Yarlung Tsangpo (known as the Brahmaputra once it reaches India).
Day 7
High passes give a last, spectacular view of the Himalaya before reaching Nyalum, on the Tibetan Plateau.
Day 8
A long day as we dive, beginning with the steep descent down the gorge to Zhangmu-Kodari where we complete border formalities before continuing the winding descent to Kathmandu.
Tour cost includes
- Accommodation as per itinerary (Chengdu, Kathmandu, Lhasa, Gyantse & Shigatse - twin share. Other accommodation twin or multi share)
- Breakfast daily
- Land transport as per itinerary
- All airport transfers
- Sightseeing as per itinerary (Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Drepung, Sera, Pelkor Choede, Tashilumpo, Sakya)
- English speaking interpreter/guide
- Tibet entry permit
Not included in the tour cost
- Personal expenses such as drinks, postage, laundry and souvenirs.
- Meals
- International flights and departure taxes
- Visa and passport fees
- Travel insurance
- Emergency evacuation
- Tips and gratuities
- Costs arising from unforeseen events outside the control of Shiva Outdoors (eg. Landslides)
Note
Please note that the published itinerary is a statement of intent and to be used as a guide only. The guide in charge of your trip will alter the schedule if conditions necessitate and any/all such alterations are at the discretion of Shiva Outdoors and your guide.
Photos
Trip Highlights
»Jokhang Temple -
spiritual heart of Tibet
»Potala Palace, residence of the Dalai Lamas
»The university monasteries of Drepung and Sera
»The towering Maitreya and ornate reliquary stupas in Tashilumpo Monastery, Shigatse
»Pelkor Choede & the unique Gyantse Kumbum, Gyantse
»The fortified monastery at Sakya, once the political heart of Tibet
»The vibrant, colorful, chaotic city of Kathmandu.
»Potala Palace, residence of the Dalai Lamas
»The university monasteries of Drepung and Sera
»The towering Maitreya and ornate reliquary stupas in Tashilumpo Monastery, Shigatse
»Pelkor Choede & the unique Gyantse Kumbum, Gyantse
»The fortified monastery at Sakya, once the political heart of Tibet
»The vibrant, colorful, chaotic city of Kathmandu.
Best Time
April-Nov
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