After you arrive at the international terminal of Kathmandu airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our company representative. You will be picked up from the airport and taken to a hotel by the Himalayan Forever staff. When you arrive at the hotel, check out your incredible rooms, and then, once you've had a chance to rest, visit the Himalayan Forever office for a meeting.
There are several landmarks and monuments within Kathmandu valley. This city holds seven UNESCO listed world heritage sites within a radius of 20km. This comprises the Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, the durbar squares of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur, among many other places. We can visit these locations or any other location of your choice.
1. Kathmandu Durbar Square:
Nestled within the bustling streets of the Kathmandu Valley, Kathmandu Durbar Square stands as a living museum of Nepal's royal history. As the former royal palace, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts an array of palaces, courtyards, and intricately carved temples. The architecture reflects a harmonious blend of Hindu and Nepalese artistry, with pagoda-style structures, ornate windows, and detailed wooden carvings that showcase the country's cultural diversity. Visitors can explore the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kumari Ghar (the Living Goddess's residence), and numerous shrines that bear witness to the city's royal past. The vibrant atmosphere, with street vendors, local artisans, and traditional performances, immerses visitors in the authentic charm of Kathmandu.
2. Pashupatinath Temple:
A short distance from Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple emerges as one of the most sacred Hindu shrines globally, nestled along the banks of the Bagmati River. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this UNESCO-listed site draws pilgrims and tourists alike with its spiritual aura and stunning architecture. The temple complex encompasses a series of shrines, ghats, and courtyards, each contributing to the religious ambiance. The main temple, adorned with silver and gold, features intricate carvings that narrate Hindu mythology. Visitors can witness the solemnity of cremation ceremonies along the riverbank, a profound experience that underscores the cycle of life and death in Hindu tradition.
3. Boudhanath Stupa:
A beacon of Buddhism in Kathmandu, the Boudhanath Stupa is an imposing structure that commands attention with its colossal mandala. As one of the largest stupas in the world, it serves as a focal point for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. The stupa's whitewashed dome is adorned with prayer flags, while the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha gaze serenely in all four cardinal directions. Pilgrims and visitors alike circumambulate the stupa, spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras, creating a rhythmic and meditative atmosphere. The surrounding area is dotted with monasteries, shops selling traditional Tibetan artifacts, and rooftop cafes that offer panoramic views of the stupa and its vibrant surroundings.
After breakfast, we begin our scenic drive from Kathmandu to the Kerung Border. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, lush valleys, and picturesque landscapes. Upon reaching the border, we complete the necessary immigration formalities and check into our hotel for an overnight stay.
After an early breakfast, we continue our journey into Tibet, heading towards Tingri or Lhatse. The drive covers a distance of 225-244 kilometers and takes us through stunning mountainous terrain. We will cross the high-altitude passes and enjoy magnificent views of some of the world's highest peaks, including Mount Everest. Arrive in Tingri or Lhatse in the evening and check into your hotel.
Today, we drive towards Xigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. The 244-kilometer journey offers a mix of scenic beauty and cultural experiences. Upon arrival, we visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. This monastery is one of the most significant religious institutions in Tibet. After the visit, we check into our hotel for an overnight stay.
Our journey continues with a drive to Gyantse, a town known for its historical and cultural significance. Here, we visit the Pelkor Monastery and the Kumbum Stupa, both important pilgrimage sites. After exploring Gyantse, we proceed to Lhasa, the spiritual and administrative capital of Tibet. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and rest for the evening.
Over the next two days, we immerse ourselves in the spiritual and cultural wonders of Lhasa. Our sightseeing tour includes visits to the iconic Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama, and the Jokhang Temple, the most revered religious structure in Tibet. We will also explore the bustling Barkhor Street, a popular pilgrimage route and market area. Additionally, we visit Sera Monastery and Drepung Monastery, two of the great Gelugpa institutions. Overnight stay at the hotel.
After breakfast, we depart from Lhasa and embark on a long but rewarding drive to Xegar. The journey covers approximately 490 kilometers and offers spectacular views of the Tibetan plateau and surrounding mountains. Xegar, also known as New Tingri, is a small town situated at the base of Mount Everest. Check into your hotel upon arrival and rest for the night.
Today, we begin our return journey to Nepal. We drive from Xegar to the Kerung Border, covering a distance of 395 kilometers. After completing border formalities, we continue our drive back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest after a long day of travel.
After breakfast, you will have some free time for last-minute shopping or exploring the city. A representative from Himalayan Forever Treks will then transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. We hope you had an unforgettable journey with us and wish you a safe trip home.
Book your adventure with Himalayan Forever Treks and embark on a journey of a lifetime through the majestic landscapes and rich cultures of Nepal and Tibet!
The average elevation within all Tibet is above 3,000 m high, and crossing passes of above 5,000 meters. The highest point on this journey is at 5,220 m on top of Gyatsho-La Pass and Lhasa city at 3,650 m high.
Dry and barren landscapes with close views of giant snow-capped peaks of Himalaya range. Includes views of world’s three highest peaks, namely Mt. Shisapangma, Mt. Cho-Oyu and Mt. Everest. Tour leads to many traditional farm villages with yellow mustard and barley fields with Yaks grazing on the meadows. Visit leads to interesting monasteries and palaces of Dalai and Panchen Lamas, the former principal rulers of Tibet. 90 % Tibetans follows Buddhism with interesting age-old heritage culture and custom.
As season wise, during spring and autumn the best time for tour in Tibet most days are fine and clear. To enjoy views and pleasant walks, however can expect snow on higher altitude sometimes. But bright and sunny days in best seasons from April to pre-summer month of June. As well in autumn / fall from September to November, in spring season, above 3,000 m high. Minimum temperatures of minus 0° and maximum of 20° Celsius not adding extra wind-chill factor. In autumn the sun rise late by 5:30 a.m. and sunsets by 5 p.m. makes the morning and night time much colder with minimum temperatures from minus 5° to 10° Celsius.
Depending upon altitude wise. Maximum of 15° to 20° Celsius, around high altitude above 2,500 the sunlight gets bright with strong UV. All visitors needs to carry sun-blocks and wearing sun-hats to block the sun against the UV rays around higher altitude, especially in direct sunlight of afternoon.
Traveling in Tibet involves high altitude areas could be strenuous sometimes, travelers with known heart or lung or blood diseases. Needs the doctor's advice before booking Tibet trip. It is always advisable to drink at least 2-3 liters of water every day while on the tour against AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) and dehydrations. Taking slowly and having much rest and doing things slowly will help against the Altitude Sickness.
The Time Zone used in Tibet is Beijing Mean Time (GMT + 7:45 Hours). Which is 2 hrs. 15 minutes ahead of Nepal Standard Time. The currencies in Tibet is Chinese Renminbi Yuan which is 1 Yuan to US$ 8 but subject to change any time.
The Tibet Overland Tour is a journey by road, usually from Kathmandu, Nepal to Lhasa, Tibet, crossing the border at Zhangmu.
The journey often begins with a drive from Kathmandu to the Nepal-Tibet border at Kodari, followed by a drive to Lhasa.
The tour typically takes around 7-10 days, depending on the specific route and itinerary.
The common route is from Kathmandu to Kodari, crossing the Friendship Bridge into Zhangmu, and then continuing to Lhasa.
Yes, travelers need a Tibet Travel Permit to enter Tibet, and additional permits for specific regions may be required.
The permit is typically arranged by a registered travel agency in Tibet as independent travel is not allowed.
Usually, comfortable and sturdy 4WD vehicles are used for the Overland Tour, equipped to handle varied terrains.
While there is no strict age limit, participants should be in good health as the journey involves long drives and high altitudes.
Weather conditions, especially during winter, can impact road conditions. It's advisable to check the weather forecast before the journey.
Yes, the journey offers opportunities to visit cultural and historical sites, including monasteries and palaces in cities like Shigatse and Lhasa.
Travelers can experience Tibetan culture, visit monasteries, witness traditional ceremonies, and interact with local communities.
Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Tibet, but it requires additional permits. Extensions can include visits to Everest Base Camp or other regions of Tibet.
