Duration
8Days
Activities
Trip Grade
Moderate
Group Size
-
Start
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End Point
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Max-Altitude
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Accomodation
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The Kathmandu–Lhasa Overland Tour offers extraordinary Himalayan landscapes equal in grandeur to the legendary passes we cross. Traveling by road across the Himalayas provides breathtaking contrasts from Nepal’s lush valleys to Tibet’s windswept plateau.
This spectacular journey is not just a sightseeing tour; it is a pilgrimage through centuries of culture, spiritual discovery, and natural beauty. Once you decide to travel across the Himalayas, the soaring peaks, vast plateaus, and ancient monasteries instantly call your soul.
Your overland journey begins in Kathmandu, a city teeming with temples, history, and vibrant culture. As the road ascends toward the Tibet border, you experience dramatic landscapes and Himalayan scenery unmatched anywhere else in the world.
Upon entering Tibet, the landscape transforms into endless horizons of golden plains framed by snow-covered mountains. The drive to Lhasa includes stunning views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Shishapangma, and the mighty Himalayan wall dividing Nepal and Tibet.
This tour offers not only natural splendor but also profound cultural insight. You will witness Tibetan prayer flags fluttering across high passes, visit ancient monasteries like Tashilhunpo and Sakya, and explore traditional highland villages where yak herders live in harmony with the land.
Arriving in Lhasa is a moment of triumph standing in the sacred heart of Tibet, home to iconic landmarks such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Bazaar. Walking through these historic sites connects you to centuries of Tibetan civilization.
The World’s Iconic Overland Journey: From Kathmandu to Lhasa
The 1,000 km journey is considered one of the greatest road trips on Earth. Each day brings dramatic scenery, rivers, glaciers, monasteries, and high mountain passes. The overland journey rewards you with panoramic displays of towering peaks that seem to rise endlessly above the plateau.
One of the highlights is reaching the Everest region from the northern (Tibetan) side, offering stunning views of the world’s tallest mountain. From Tingri and Rongbuk, Everest appears closer, grander, and more dramatic than ever.
This overland adventure is suitable for travelers of any age and fitness level. Good health and basic acclimatization are recommended, as the journey reaches altitudes above 5,000 meters.
Avoiding Altitude Sickness
The route gradually ascends to higher elevations, providing time for your body to adjust. Drink plenty of water and avoid heavy exercise. Our itinerary includes stops designed specifically for acclimatization.
Drive across the Himalayas from Nepal to Tibet
Experience the vast Tibetan Plateau
Panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, and Shishapangma
Visit Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Norbulingka Palace
Explore the cultural hub of Lhasa
Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery and Gyantse Dzong
Yamdrok Lake – one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes
Drive past glaciers, high passes, and dramatic landscapes
You leave Kathmandu after breakfast and begin the scenic drive toward the northern border. The road winds through lush hills, riverside settlements, and terraced farmlands. The changing landscapes keep the journey consistently engaging.
Syabrubesi welcomes you with cool mountain air and a peaceful rural atmosphere. You check into a lodge and enjoy a relaxing evening before your border crossing tomorrow.
The morning begins with a short drive to the Nepal–Tibet border. After completing immigration formalities on both sides, you officially enter Tibetan territory.
The drive to Kyirong offers dramatic views of deep valleys and rising highlands. The shift in culture becomes instantly noticeable as Tibetan prayer flags and stone structures come into view.
Today you ascend toward the Tibetan Plateau, where the scenery expands into vast open lands and dramatic ridges. The air becomes cooler and thinner, marking your gradual rise into high-altitude terrain.
As you approach Tingri, breathtaking views of Everest, Cho Oyu, and Shishapangma appear on the skyline. Tingri’s isolated charm makes it an ideal acclimatization stop.
Continuing your journey, the route takes you through wide valleys, yak herder settlements, and arid plateaus. The scenery appears infinite, giving a sense of freedom and serenity.
In Shigatse, you explore Tashilhunpo Monastery, one of the most significant spiritual centers in Tibet. The city’s mix of modern structures and ancient culture creates a truly immersive experience.
The drive today highlights rural Tibet, where golden fields, traditional homes, and fortress-topped hills dominate the landscape. You gradually ascend scenic passes with sweeping vistas.
In Gyantse, you visit the historic Gyantse Dzong and Kumbum Stupa. The town’s ancient ambience reflects Tibet’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions.
A spectacular drive awaits as you traverse high passes offering views of turquoise Yamdrok Lake. Its serene colors contrast beautifully with the surrounding brown hillsides.
Approaching Lhasa, the terrain flattens, and a grand valley opens up. The excitement of reaching Tibet’s sacred capital fills the air as the first glimpse of the city appears.
Your guided tour begins with a visit to Potala Palace, the legendary residence of the Dalai Lama. Its 1,000+ rooms are filled with history, murals, and sacred artifacts.
Later, you explore Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism. A walk around Barkhor Street reveals centuries-old customs, markets, pilgrims, and traditions.
Your unforgettable Himalayan overland journey concludes with a transfer to Lhasa Airport. The memories of majestic mountains, serene lakes, and cultural wonders remain with you forever.
You depart with a deeper appreciation of Tibet’s spiritual richness and the vast beauty of the plateau.