Tibet Overland Tour from Nepal - 8 Days
Maxium Altitude
4350M
Trip Overview
This Tibet Overland Tour from Nepal is a journey to one of the most magnificent and fascinating landscapes on the entire planet Earth. Famously referred to as the ‘Roof of the World’, this region takes your breath away with its body of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and the magnificent wide stretching Tibetan Plateau seen with flags flying in the wind. There is a historical and cultural aspect experienced during this journey, which has been used for religious purposes, great works of art, and great and active culture belonging to the region.
Tibet is an enclosed region; however, any traveler will find something of interest in this country, including cultural tours in Lhasa or Gyantse and treks in the Mount Everest region. From a strange marvel at the appeasing structures of the Potala Palace to a moment of solitude along the still waters of the Yamdrok Lake, it is more than inspiring; it becomes a life-changing experience, something most everyone would want to have and treasure forever.
Preparation for Tibet Overland Tour from Nepal
Permits and Regulations
In order to undertake the Tibet Overland Tour from Nepal 8 Days, a compulsory document to deal with is the Tibet Entry Permit, also known as (TTB Permit). If you intend to stay in Lhasa or other open parts of the city, then this permit is enough. For those travelling by train to Tibet, it is usually sufficient to show a photocopy of the permit, so it’s advisable to have more than one copy with you. The permit is usually offered by the travel agencies the day before your intended travel.
If you travel to Tibet by air, you will need the original permit and must produce it when checking in at the airport. However, if you arrive from Kathmandu, the tour guide will hold it for you at the airport. There are also several other permits you may require, including an Aliens’ Travel Permit for areas like Mt. Everest and a Tibet Military Permit for areas like Nagri and Nyingchi etc, depending on your travel plans.
In order to obtain the Tibet Entry Permit, the traveler is required to contact the travel agency and provide a copy of a valid passport, visa for China and occupation. Occupation information makes sure those who are not diplomats are properly categorized because diplomats, journalists, governmental officers, and others need to make arrangements with the Foreign Affairs Office of the Tibetan Government.
Anyone applying from within China may require other supporting documents, including a residence or work permit, among others, to complete the application process. Advanced planning is advisable, especially when planning to visit prohibited or military zones because permit taking may take a number of weeks.
Guides and Porters required for Tibet Overland Tour from Nepal
For the Tibet Overland Tour from Nepal 8 Days, we advise all travelers to have a licensed guide. Your guide will not only help you with the legal formalities but also make the trip more valuable if they provide you with context regarding Tibetan culture, history or religion. Tour guides speak English and other languages, making communication easy and adding to the understanding of the destination.
Porters also come in handy for journeys that take more than a day or any other trip that requires a lot of staking. They do aid in carrying equipment, some of which you may require for the journey so that you can more appreciate the scenery. Though not compulsory in every tour, outsourcing porters come in handy where there are some hard terrains through which you wish to pass through.
Communication and Internet during Tibet Overland Tour from Nepal
All the large towns and cities on the tour, including Lhasa and Shigatse, have good phone signals for mobile networks. Currently, there are many companies which provide mobile operators’ services for the Tibet region, for example, China Mobile and China Unicom; these companies have relatively cheap tariffs and offer SIM cards with Internet connection.
However, some specific areas like Tingri or high altitude, may not have any signal at all or very weak signal during the whole trip. You should either equip yourself with an already activated SIM card or ask the guide for updates when in such areas.
There are no issues with connectivity in most of the hotels, including those in Lhasa and Shigatse, although the connection speed may be slow. Most hotels offer complimentary Internet, although the connection rates may be lower in less populated places. There are almost always internet cafés in tourist areas, but they may only be available in large cities.
Travelers also need to know that some websites and applications (for example, Google, Facebook, and Instagram) are blocked in Tibet as a result of China’s internet censorship. People widely use a VPN to overcome censorship restrictions and access the Internet.
Food and Accommodation
Tibetan food is rich in several ways, although it is a fusion of the culinary traditions of the area and altitude. These are tsampa, which is barley flour, and momo, which are types of Tibetan dumplings, and noodle-based soups. Yak meat, butter tea, and cheese produced by local processes also form part of the diet. Of course, the variety of restaurants is more diverse in big cities like Lhasa; there is Chinese, Nepali food, and some European food, even for tourists. In small towns, there are much fewer options, but it is also an opportunity to taste real Tibetan cuisine.
You can expect from five-star hotels in Lhasa and Shigatse to simple lodges in Gyantse or Tingri. Hot water or heating may not always be provided to some of the lodgings, particularly those in low end hotels. There will always be a need to take a sleeping bag to supplement warmth and comfort, especially in the higher altitude areas where night temperatures are very low.
Travel Insurance for Tibet Overland Tour from Nepal
Since Tibet has some of the most extreme climate conditions of any destination and much of the terrain is off-limits to travellers, it is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance when visiting Tibet. Evacuation insurance is important because, in many cases, you may need to evacuate by helicopter to reach healthcare facilities.
Apart from the medical expenses, your policy should have coverage for trip cancellations, delays, and loss of possessions in the Himalayas. Also, you must ensure that your insurance policy with your chosen provider is clear on travel to such altitude and highland areas as Tibet since some of the insurance policies still permit such travel. Carry both hard and soft copies of all the insurance papers conveniently during the trip.
Conclusion
The Tibet Overland Tour from Nepal is not just a destination but it is a special expedition to a place where the soul reaches up to the hills. The charm that Tibet has on every traveler is unusual and usually affects the heart and soul of every traveler on tour. From the ambient chanting of monks to spiritually embracing Jokhang Temple and Potala Palace, the region has a raw characteristic which provides a chance to exist in a timeless mode. So, if you are looking forward to going on the Tibet Overland Tour from Nepal, please contact us!
If you are down for getting all these experiences, book now with Mountain Treks Nepal. Contact us today to help you find the perfect itinerary and custom support for the Tibet Overland Tour from Nepal 8 Days.
Moreover, you can Book your trips from Nepal to Tibet for your refreshment in the Spiritual Nation. You can go through our Kailash Mansarovar Tour, Lhasa Tour from Nepal packages and plan for your next trip in Tibet with Mountain Treks Nepal.
Trip Highlights
- Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Kerung via Dhunche and Syabrubesi.
- Explore Lhasa city and some of its major landmarks like Sera Monastery, Barkhor Market, Jokhang Temple, and Norbulingka Palace.
- Reach Karo La Pass at 5,042 meters above sea level.
- Explore rich culture and tradition of Tibetan community.
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Detailed Itinerary
The first day of the Tibet Overland Tour starts at Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Leaving the city area, the drive twists along the hilly terrains, green valleys and typical Nepalese villages. During this tour you will get to see some waterfalls and the terracing structure used in farming in Nepal. The Trishuli River borders much of your drive, and you will find yourself surrounded by its peaceful sound.
When you’re moving closer to Nepal – China border line at Rasuwa Gadi, the geographical features start to become stony. It is a transition zone to the Tibetan plateau and experiences a rise and fall in altitude. Then, immigration procedures take place, and you get the best chance to witness the striking difference between green Nepal and the barren Tibet landscape.
Kerung Town lies 2,800 meters above the sea, where you will spend the night. The town is more colorful and has a Tibetan feel to it, with local restaurants to eat and the opportunity to get used to the altitude.
From Kerung, the drive comes up into the stunning highlands of the Tibetan Plateau. The scene becomes more feature when mountain tops are covered with snow, the land turns into a large plain. You will see small huts of the Tibetan people along the road and the main sight of many coloured flags, with blue sky and mountains behind them.
The route provides one with the best opportunity to view some of the highest mountain ranges in the world, including a view of Mount Everest in the distance in clear weather. This actually means that this region is not densely populated, and therefore, you get privacy and are close to nature. The region is completely natural and, in parts, very barren, but occasionally, one may meet yaks or nomads.
Tingri and Lhatse are small towns with a lot of history and culture. These are important places to acclimatise when visiting the high altitude with the opportunity to learn more about the life of Tibetan people. The towns also give a glimpse of the spirituality that makes up the greater part of the Tibetan culture.
The road leading from Tingri to Shigatse takes one through vast plains and winding mountain roads. The landscapes through which it passes are spectacular; to the south lies the Himalayan range, while to the north lies vast grasslands as far as one can see. Do not forget about your camera because this route is replete with marvellous shots of its territorial landscapes.
Tingri is an important place of business and culture in Tibet and the second-largest city in the region. The Tashilhunpo Monastery forms the core of the city – the residence of the Panchen Lama. This monastery houses many art and architecture of Tibetan Buddhism, which includes the painting, golden statue, and Maitreya Buddha, which is 26 meters tall.
Other than the monastery, fresh and busy markets are found in Shigatse, and people come to sell and buy local products, spices and clothing. It is just the right time to get acquainted with the everyday life of Tibet and, of course, buy wonderful souvenirs. Shigatse has a rich history and religious importance and has become a modern city, which makes it an interesting place to visit.
The road between Shigatse and Gyantse is filled with wonderful sights and landmarks over just a short distance. When you are on the Tibetan plateau, you will find yourself surrounded by rolling hills, greenery fields, and a few villages that really depict the lifestyle of the Tibetans. It is a very calm road, and there is ample time to appreciate rural expanses and far-off mountain ranges.
Gyantse is one of the oldest and most important towns in Tibet which contains some of the most photographed attractions in the country. Among them is the Kumbum Stupa for the Palcho Monastery. This architectural beauty has more than beautiful paintings and a countless number of chapels with different gods. The stupa is a whole building which envelops the visitor in exploration and appreciation of Tibetan Buddhist art and religious customs.
Gyantse also houses the Gyantse Dzong, a large fortress located atop a hill and overlooking the town. From the top of the fortress, you can see the great valley, and the fortress is a symbol of centuries-long history of Tibet. Natural scenery blended with history hardly leaves anyone untouched in Gyantse during your journey.
The drive to Lhasa today is one of the most beautiful phases of the Tibet Overland Tour from Kathmandu. There are many spectacular sights along the way, as well as great places of interest. The road follows the beautiful Yamdrok Lake, which is one of the holiest and most beautiful lakes in Tibet. In particular, the picture of the bright blue water of the lake framed by snowy peaks gives the viewer a religious feeling.
A little further on is the Karo La Pass where you can get to see magnificent glaciers that slope down to the road. This scene exposes the contrast of ice and rock with an unbelievable background that makes it a masterpiece. This segment of the journey also shows you the valleys that are productive agriculturally and small villages that are still culturally Tibetan.
Climbing to the roof of the world and reaching Lhasa, Tibet’s spiritual capital, is a memorable achievement. This is a colourful city located right at the heart of the Himalayas, recognized for its history, pilgrimage destinations and the dynamism of its population.
The first day of sightseeing in Lhasa includes visiting the Potala Palace, which is a symbol of the city. This splendid complex, which was once a residence of the Dalai Lama. It is also included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is located on the top of Marpo Ri Hill, and one at this palace enjoys the view of the city, mountains, etc. Tibetan cultural artefacts such as statues, thangkas sacred paintings, ancient murals and an elaborate chapel inside.
Second, it is going to the Jokhang Temple, the most significant shrine in the Tibetan province. It’s a very old temple with a golden roof, colorful prayer halls and especially the statue of Jowo Shakyamuni because it gives the feeling of being religious.
You will end your evening going for a walk at Barkhor Street, which is a busy market surrounding the Jokhang Temple. Such is the city-the most happening place, entirely from shopping for arts, tasting local delicacies into meeting other fellow travelers whose life was also touched by the pilgrimage.
Lhasa’s cultural and historical sites are the focus of the second day of your tour in the city. You will begin your trip with the Norbulingka Palace – the summer home of the Dalai Lama in exile. Gardens shade this large palace: it was once part of a royal residence and will give you a feel of Tibet’s past.
You will then proceed to Sera Monastery, a famous one of the three great monasteries of Tibet. Famous for heated discourses among monks, the place is a perfect example of the scholarly heritage of Tibetan monks. These chants, discussions, and prayers signify the energy and spirituality needed to perform the tasks.
Last but not least, you will also discover the largest monastery known as the Drepung Monastery. Its white complex of buildings near the mountains best describes the opulence of monastic culture in Tibet. The sites, relics and stunning vistas of this trip are appropriate for a strong final to your Lhasa travel experience.
On the last day of the Tibet Overland Tour from Nepal 8 Days, you will return to Kathmandu by flight. The flight gives an aerial view of the mountain ranges, including Mount Everest, Makalu and Kanchenjunga – the perfect way to bid the Himalayas goodbye.
When you begin your descent into the city of Kathmandu you will need to leave behind with you the beautiful landscape, religious importance and further cultural heritage of Tibet. This journey, transferring from one energetic culture of Nepalese to the other of Tibetan people, becomes unforgettable. Besides, this tour guarantees to tell a lot of interesting things and to experience a lot of interesting things in your lifetime.
Trip Includes
- PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION BY VAN
- TIBET TRAVEL PERMIT
- ENGLISH SPEAKING TIBETAN GUIDE.
- ACCOMMODATION ON TWIN SHARING ROOM BASIS
- SIGHTSEEING AND MONASTERY ENTRANCE FEES AS PER OUR ITINERARY
- DAILY BREAKFAST.
- KATHMANDU TO KERONG TRANSFER BY JEEP.
- Tibet Visa Fee.
- Flight ticket to Kathmandu form Lhasa.
Trip Excludes
- LUNCH AND DINNER
- INSURANCE OF ANY KIND
- PERSONAL EXPENSES SUCH AS A DRINK, TIPS& ETC.
ANY ADDITIONAL COST DUE TO NATURAL CALAMITIES AND UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCE
Frequently Asked Questions
Key highlights of the Tibet Overland Tour include exploring Tibetan communities in Kerung, Tingri, Ghyatse, Shigatse, and more. Similarly, exploring historical and cultural landmarks such as Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery, Norbulingka Palace, and Barkhor Market follows up with key highlights.
We advise you pack lightly but recommended items such as sleeping bags, spare shoes for walking around Lhasa, and thermal clothes since the altitude is high and temperature might be freezing.
Considering the favorable weather conditions, Spring and Autumn seasons are the best time to go on the Tibet Overland Tour from Kathmandu.
In the Tibet region, using social media such as Facebook and Instagram are banned but you can use WeChat for connection. Also, use of VPN for social media can be done.
luna
September 15, 2023 at 11:07 pmTibet tour
We recently had an amazing experience on an overland tour to Tibet with Mountain Treks Nepal from Kathmandu. The scenery throughout the journey was breathtaking, especially the majestic Himalayas and the beautiful Gyirong Valley. A definite highlight was visiting Everest Base Camp and witnessing the awe-inspiring sight of Mount Everest from different vantage points.
Jon
June 17, 2023 at 11:04 pmOverland Tour
I recently embarked on a 10-day overland adventure to Tibet with Mountain Treks Nepal, departing from Kathmandu. It was an incredible experience that exceeded my expectations.
Harise
March 10, 2019 at 11:01 pmTibet Tour from Kathmandu
I recently embarked on a 10-day overland tour to Tibet with Mountain Treks Nepal, departing from Kathmandu. It was an incredible experience that exceeded my expectations
The journey itself was breathtaking, traveling through the Himalayas and witnessing majestic mountainscapes.
Reaching the Everest Base Camp was a definite high point, offering stunning views of the world’s tallest peak.
The cultural immersion in Tibet was fascinating. Exploring ancient monasteries and experiencing Buddhist traditions was truly special.
Mountain Treks Nepal provided excellent service throughout the trip. The guides were knowledgeable and friendly, the transportation comfortable, and the accommodation clean and well-maintained.