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Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour

The Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour is one of the most spectacular trans-Himalayan journeys, combining breathtaking scenery, deep spiritual heritage, and unique cultural encounters as you travel from the mystical city of Lhasa to the vibrant capital of Kathmandu. Starting in Lhasa, the spiritual and political heart of Tibet, you will explore iconic landmarks such as the majestic Potala Palace, the sacred Jokhang Temple, and the ancient monastic complexes of Sera Monastery and Drepung Monastery, each offering a glimpse into the centuries-old traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. 

The Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour follows the legendary Friendship Highway, one of the highest and most scenic roads in the world, passing vast plateaus, turquoise lakes, snow-capped mountains, and remote Tibetan villages. Along the way, you’ll stop at historic towns like Gyantse and Shigatse, home to remarkable monasteries and vibrant markets, before heading towards one of the most awe-inspiring highlights of the journey—Everest Base Camp (North Face). 

From this vantage point, travelers are treated to breathtaking views of Mount Everest, the world's highest mountain, standing proudly at 8,848 meters. Continuing along the route, the Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour takes you through dramatic mountain passes such as Gyatso La and Lalung La, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range before gradually descending from the high-altitude Tibetan Plateau into the lush, green valleys of Nepal. 

As you cross the border into Nepal, the landscape transforms into terraced farmlands, charming hillside villages, and subtropical forests, eventually leading you to the cultural hub of Kathmandu, where you can explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. 

The best seasons for the Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–November) when clear skies reveal stunning mountain panoramas. For this epic overland adventure, travelers require a Tibet Travel Permit, arranged by an authorized agency, along with a valid Chinese Visa or Nepal Visa, depending on the travel direction.

With expert planning, comfortable transportation, and professional guides provided by Nepal Unique Treks, you can enjoy a seamless and safe journey while immersing yourself in the history, landscapes, and traditions of two of the world’s most fascinating destinations. Whether you are an adventure seeker, culture enthusiast, or photography lover, the Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour offers an unparalleled travel experience that blends the sacred spirit of Tibet with the warm hospitality of Nepal, making it truly one of the world’s greatest road trips.

 

Short Itinerary

Day 1 :
Arrival in Lhasa (3,650 m)
Day 2 :
Lhasa Sightseeing – Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street
Day 3 :
Lhasa Sightseeing – Drepung & Sera Monasteries
Day 4 :
Lhasa – Gyantse (3,950 m) via Yamdrok Lake & Karo La Pass
Day 5 :
Gyantse – Shigatse (3,900 m)
Day 6 :
Shigatse – Shegar/Tingri (4,350 m)
Day 7 :
Shegar/Tingri – Everest Base Camp (5,200 m) – Rongbuk Monastery
Day 8 :
Rongbuk – Gyirong (2,700 m)
Day 9 :
Gyirong – Kathmandu (1,400 m)

Details Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Lhasa (3,650 m)

3 Star Hotel Food Lunch and Dinner Elevation 3650

Arrive in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, and transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day resting and acclimatizing to the high altitude. You can take a gentle walk around the city to soak in the local atmosphere and observe traditional Tibetan life. Enjoy views of the Potala Palace from the outside as the sun sets. Lhasa’s high elevation requires a slow pace, so avoid strenuous activity. Overnight in Lhasa, preparing for the cultural and scenic wonders ahead on your Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour.

Day 2 : Lhasa Sightseeing – Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street

3 Star Hotel Food Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Elevation 3650

After breakfast, begin your exploration of Lhasa’s most famous landmarks. Visit the majestic Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama, with its stunning chapels, murals, and panoramic views. Continue to the sacred Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism, housing the revered Jowo Shakyamuni statue. Later, stroll through Barkhor Street, a bustling kora (pilgrimage circuit) lined with traditional shops, prayer wheels, and incense. This day offers a deep immersion into Tibetan history, religion, and daily life, setting the tone for the rest of the Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour.

Day 3 : Lhasa Sightseeing – Drepung & Sera Monasteries

3 Star Hotel Food Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today’s focus is on two of Tibet’s largest monastic institutions. Visit Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world, with a history dating back to the 15th century. Explore its vast assembly halls, colleges, and chapels adorned with intricate art. In the afternoon, head to Sera Monastery, famous for its lively monk debating sessions held in the courtyard, a unique way of learning Buddhist philosophy. These visits give insight into the educational and spiritual life of Tibetan monks. Overnight in Lhasa, making the most of your final evening in Tibet’s spiritual capital.

Day 4 : Lhasa – Gyantse (3,950 m) via Yamdrok Lake & Karo La Pass

3 Star Hotel Food Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Elevation 3950

Depart Lhasa along the Friendship Highway, stopping at the dazzling turquoise Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three holy lakes, with a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Cross Karo La Pass (5,045 m) to witness the stunning glaciers cascading down to the roadside. Continue to Gyantse, a charming town famous for the Kumbum Stupa at Pelkor Monastery, which features numerous chapels filled with Buddhist murals. Enjoy walking around Gyantse’s quiet streets, where the atmosphere of old Tibet still lingers. Overnight in Gyantse, surrounded by scenic mountain landscapes and rich history.

Day 5 : Gyantse – Shigatse (3,900 m)

3 Star Hotel Food Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Elevation 3900

After breakfast, drive to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. Upon arrival, visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, known for its massive Maitreya Buddha statue and golden-roofed chapels. Take time to explore the monastery’s kora route, offering panoramic views of Shigatse. The city also has vibrant local markets where you can shop for Tibetan handicrafts. Shigatse serves as an important cultural and administrative hub on the Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour, offering a comfortable overnight stay before the journey into more remote areas.

Day 6 : Shigatse – Shegar/Tingri (4,350 m)

3 Star Hotel Food Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Elevation 4350

Today’s drive takes you deeper into the Himalayan region, passing rugged landscapes and high passes with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Stop at Gyatso La Pass (5,248 m), one of the highest points on the Friendship Highway, offering spectacular Himalayan panoramas. Arrive in Shegar or Old Tingri, small but scenic towns with clear views of Everest and other giants of the Himalayas. This is the gateway to the northern approach to Everest Base Camp, and you can enjoy a peaceful evening preparing for tomorrow’s highlight.

Day 7 : Shegar/Tingri – Everest Base Camp (5,200 m) – Rongbuk Monastery

3 Star Hotel Food Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Elevation 5200

A highlight of the entire Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour, today you drive towards Everest Base Camp (North Face). En route, cross Pang La Pass (5,150 m) for a sweeping view of five of the world’s highest peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. Arrive at Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world, with an unparalleled view of Mount Everest. From here, continue to Base Camp to experience the raw grandeur of the world’s tallest mountain. Overnight near Rongbuk, surrounded by towering Himalayan giants.

Day 8 : Rongbuk – Gyirong (2,700 m)

3 Star Hotel Food Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Elevation 2700

Today’s journey descends dramatically from the high Tibetan Plateau into the lush valleys near the Nepal border. Pass through remote mountain areas, waterfalls, and forests, with changing scenery at every turn. Arrive in Gyirong, a beautiful border town with a mild climate and green surroundings, a stark contrast to the arid landscapes of central Tibet. The lower altitude offers a comfortable overnight stay before crossing into Nepal. This is the final night in Tibet on your Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour.

Day 9 : Gyirong – Kathmandu (1,400 m)

3 Star Hotel Food Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Elevation 1145

After breakfast, complete the border formalities and cross into Nepal at the Gyirong–Rasuwa border. Drive through scenic mountain roads and terraced hillsides towards Kathmandu, Nepal’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy free time to explore the city’s bustling streets or relax after the long journey.

The Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour ends here, but you may extend your stay to explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO sites such as Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath, or take additional tours in Nepal.

Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour Altitude Profile

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