Trip Facts
Trip Start/Ends
Kathmandu, Nepal
Trip Difficulty
Moderate
Trip Style
Overland sightseeing & cultural tour
Meals
Breakfast and selected meals (as per itinerary)
Accomodation
Standard hotels and guesthouses (3-star or equivalent)
Max. Elevation
5,200 m (optional Everest Base Camp side trip)
Group Size
2 – 16 pax
Activity
Day-wise highlights, including sightseeing, travel duration, and any optional hikes or cultural activities.
Best Season
April to October
Overview
The 8-Day Tibet Overland Tour from Kathmandu is an unforgettable journey that combines adventure, culture, and stunning mountain scenery. This overland tour takes you from Kathmandu through the Nepal-Tibet border at Kerung/Kyirong and across the high Tibetan Plateau, offering some of the most amazing views of the Himalayas.
Along the way, you will cross high mountain passes like Gyatchu La (5,220 m), Karola Pass (5,010 m), and Kambala Pass (4,749 m), and see the beautiful Yamdrok-Tso Lake.
The tour also gives you a deep look into Tibetan culture and Buddhism. You will visit famous sites such as Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, and Kumbum Stupa and Phalkor Monastery in Gyantse. For adventure seekers, there is an optional visit to Everest Base Camp, offering a close-up view of the world’s tallest mountain.
This tour is perfect for you if you want a mix of culture, nature, and high-altitude adventure all in one trip.
Start Your Tibet Overland Journey. Contact Himalaya Trekking Nepal Today!
Highlights of Tibet Overland Tour
Scenic Wonders
-
Overland journey from Kathmandu to Lhasa through the Himalayas.
-
Views of Mt. Shishapangma, Cho Oyu, and Everest.
-
Cross high passes: Gyatchu La (5,220 m), Karola (5,010 m), and Kambala (4,749 m).
-
Admire Yamdrok-Tso Lake and the Tibetan plateau landscapes.
-
Optional visit to Everest Base Camp (EBC).
Cultural & Spiritual
-
Explore Lhasa: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Bazaar.
-
Visit Tashilhunpo, Sera, Drepung, Kumbum Stupa, and Phalkor Monastery.
-
Witness monk debates, local rituals, and traditional Tibetan life.
-
Opportunity to see festivals: Losar, Saga Dawa, Shoton, and Butter Lamp.
Unique Experiences
-
Taste authentic Tibetan dishes: Momo, Thukpa, and Thenduk.
-
Stay in local guesthouses and teahouses.
-
Capture breathtaking photography: mountains, lakes, and monasteries.
Experience adventure, culture, and spirituality in one journey. If you're looking to travel Tibet more check our other Tibet packages
Important Trip Note
-
Foreign travellers must book through licensed tour operators.
-
A Chinese visa and Tibet travel permit are mandatory.
-
Gradual acclimatization is advised to avoid altitude sickness.
-
Travel involves long overland journeys with stops at high-altitude passes.
-
Optional visits to Everest Base Camp are available for additional trekking experience.
-
Accommodation standards are basic to moderate in remote areas.
-
Recommended travel season: April to October.
Itinerary
-
Day 1 Kathmandu → Kerung (2,700m)
You start early in the morning from Kathmandu. Drive through green valleys and small villages like Dhunche and Syabrubesi. You will reach the Kerung border, where you will complete immigration checks for Nepal and China. Then, drive 2 more hours uphill to reach Kerung town.
Tip: Keep your passport and permits handy for border checks.
Accommodation
Hotel or guesthouse
Meals
Breakfast included
Duration
7–9 hours
Max Altitude
2700m
-
Day 2 Kerung → Tingri/Lhatse (4,350m)
Today, you drive about 225 km across the Tibetan plateau, often called the “roof of the world.” On clear days, you may see big mountains like Shishapangma and Cho Oyu. You will cross the Gyatchu La Pass (5,220 m), a very high and beautiful mountain pass.
Accommodation
Hotel in Tingri or Lhatse
Meals
Breakfast included
Duration
8 hours
Max Altitude
5220m
-
Day 3 Tingri/Lhatse → Shigatse (3,900m)
Drive 244 km to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. You will cross Gyatso La Pass (5,220 m). Along the way, see where the road splits to Mount Kailash, one of Tibet’s most sacred places.
Accommodation
Yak Hotel, Shigatse
Meals
Breakfast included
Duration
6 hours
Max Altitude
5220m
-
Day 4 Shigatse → Lhasa (3,656m)
Start with a visit to Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, home of the Panchen Lama. Drive to Gyantse and see Kumbum Stupa and Phalkor Monastery. Continue to Lhasa, crossing Karola Pass (5,010 m) and Kambala Pass (4,749 m). Don’t miss the Yamdrok-Tso Lake, a stunning turquoise lake.
Accommodation
Hotel in Lhasa
Meals
Breakfast included
Duration
6 hours
Max Altitude
5010m
-
Day 5 Lhasa Sightseeing (3,656m)
Spend a full day exploring Lhasa. Visit:
-
Potala Palace: the Dalai Lama’s former palace
-
Jokhang Temple: a very important temple for Tibetans
-
Barkhor Bazaar: a busy market for souvenirs
-
Sera Monastery: watch monks debate in the afternoon
Accommodation
Hotel in Lhasa
Meals
Breakfast included
Duration
Full Day
Max Altitude
3656m
-
-
Day 6 Lhasa (3,656m)
Another day in Lhasa to see more:
-
Drepung Monastery, the largest monastery in Tibet. It was also a home of the Dalai Lama before the Potala Palace
-
Revisit Sera Monastery if you want to see more monk debates
-
Optional walk in Lhasa’s old town for shopping or photos
Accommodation
Hotel in Lhasa
Meals
Breakfast included
Duration
Full Day
Max Altitude
3656m
-
-
Day 7 Lhasa → Xegar/Tingri (4,300m)
Start the return journey. You can choose to drive to Everest Base Camp for an extra fee ($200). Otherwise, continue the scenic drive across the plateau to Xegar/Tingri.
Accommodation
Hotel in Xegar/Tingri
Meals
Breakfast included
Duration
Full Day
Max Altitude
4300m
-
Day 8 Xegar/Border → Kathmandu (1,350m)
Leave early for the Nepal border. Complete immigration checks and drive back to Kathmandu (8–10 hours). The tour ends upon arrival.
Accommodation
N/A
Meals
Breakfast included
Duration
8–10 hours drive
Max Altitude
1350m
Cost Breakdown
The 8-Day Tibet Overland Tour costs around US$1,650–$1,750 per person, depending on group size. The price includes all required permits, visa fees, and entrance fees for key attractions like the Potala Palace. Conservation fees for places like Pekutso and Yamdrok Lake are also included.
Transportation in 4-wheel vehicles or Jeeps, experienced English-speaking guides, and twin-sharing accommodation with daily breakfast are provided. Vehicles often carry oxygen canisters for high-altitude safety.
Costs not included are lunch, dinner, drinks, personal expenses, tips, optional excursions like Everest Base Camp (US$200), and travel insurance. US and Canadian passport holders pay an extra USD 90 for the Tibet visa fees.
Dates & Price
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
- October
- November
- December
Meals & Accommodation
Meals
The tour package includes daily breakfast throughout the journey.
Excluded Meals:
-
Lunch and dinner are not included in the package.
Drinks are also not covered; you should plan and budget separately.
Dining and Cuisine:
-
Meals are usually served at local restaurants or hotels, ensuring safety and hygiene.
-
You can enjoy a mix of Tibetan, Chinese, and occasionally Western dishes.
-
Popular Tibetan foods include:
-
Momo (steamed dumplings)
-
Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup)
-
Tsampa (roasted barley flour)
-
Thenduk (handmade noodle soup)
-
In remote areas, food options may be limited, so it’s recommended to carry snacks for convenience.
Accommodation
Accommodation is included in the package and is typically twin-sharing rooms. You'll experience a mix of comfortable hotels and local guesthouses, depending on location.
Cities and Major Towns:
-
Lhasa, Shigatse, and Kerung offer hotels with standard amenities.
-
Options range from 3-star budget hotels to mid-range 4-star hotels or even 5-star luxury resorts in some areas.
-
Small groups usually stay in 3-star hotels, such as the Yak Hotel in Xigatse or hotels in Kerung/Kyirong.
Remote Areas:
-
Tingri, Gyirong border areas, and Everest Base Camp have basic guesthouses or tea-house style accommodations.
-
These are simple but functional, providing a safe and comfortable stay in high-altitude or remote locations.
Customization and Upgrades:
-
Booking a custom tour, there are options for better hotels or upgraded rooms.
-
Small groups may also upgrade accommodations for an extra fee, providing more comfort while maintaining the adventure spirit of the journey.
Book Your Tibet Overland Tour Now with Himalaya Trekking Nepal
Best Time to Travel Tibet
The ideal time for the 8-Day Tibet Overland Tour from Kathmandu is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is most pleasant and the skies are clear for mountain views.
Spring (April to May):
-
Moderate temperatures, clear skies, and blooming landscapes.
-
Best time for photography and sightseeing.
Autumn (September to October):
-
Cool and dry weather with minimal rainfall.
-
Clear views of Himalayan peaks, including Everest, Cho Oyu, and Shishapangma.
Other Times:
-
Summer (June to August): Can be rainy, with occasional landslides affecting road travel.
-
Winter (November to March): Very cold in high-altitude areas; some passes may be closed due to snow.
Tip: Spring and autumn offer the best balance of comfort, safety, and scenic beauty, making them the most recommended periods for this high-altitude journey.
Permits and Travel Requirements
Foreign tourists cannot travel independently in Tibet. All visitors must book a tour with a licensed operator like Himalaya Trekking Nepal.
Essential Permits Required
-
Tibet Travel Permit: Needed for all travelers entering Tibet, arranged by the tour operator.
-
Chinese Visa: Must be valid for at least 6 months. If entering Tibet from Nepal, the visa must be obtained from the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. Pre-obtained visas from your home country are not valid for this route.
-
Alien Travel / Military Permit: Required for restricted areas, such as Everest Base Camp or border regions. We usually arrange this.
Preparation and Documentation Required
Advance planning is essential due to Tibet’s strict visa and permit rules.
-
Group Visa Requirement: A minimum of 4–5 travelers is required for Tibet group visa processing.
-
Document Submission: Submit a clear copy of your passport at least 20 days before the tour.
-
Visa Processing: Requires the original passport in Kathmandu. Takes about 3–7 working days for both the Chinese visa and Tibet Travel Permit.
-
Mandatory Presence: You must be physically in Kathmandu for visa application and biometric tests. Arrive 7–8 days before the tour for safe processing.
Road Conditions, Safety, and Transportation
The tour involves long drives across high-altitude terrain.
-
Road Conditions: Most major highways are paved and in good condition. Some remote areas have rough or unpaved roads. Mountain passes may have tunnels replacing dangerous sections.
-
Monsoon Risks: Roads can be blocked by landslides during the rainy season, sometimes requiring short walks past affected areas.
-
Vehicle Safety: Vehicles (4-wheel drives, Jeeps, vans, or buses) provide one seat per person, often with oxygen canisters and bottled water for high-altitude comfort.
-
Expert Staff: Experienced drivers and English-speaking Tibetan guides ensure safety and smooth travel.
Packing Essentials
High-altitude weather is unpredictable, so preparation is important.
-
Clothing: Bring layers, warm jackets, thermals, and sturdy shoes for trekking.
-
Protection: Include gloves, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
-
Personal Supplies: Pack a reusable water bottle, snacks, and energy bars for remote areas.
-
Medication & Documents: Carry medicines, especially for altitude sickness, all travel permits, chargers, and adapters.
Travel Tips for Tiber Overland Tour
-
High Altitude: Tibet has high-altitude areas like Lhasa and Shigatse, which can cause altitude sickness.
-
Acclimatization: Allow time to adjust in the first days; avoid rushing to higher altitudes.
-
Hydration and Food: Drink plenty of water and eat small meals to prevent altitude sickness.
-
Medical Advice: Consult a doctor for altitude sickness medications before the trip.
-
Emergency Oxygen: Tour vehicles provide oxygen canisters for dizziness or headaches.
-
Best Travel Time: April to October, with spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) offering the clearest skies.
-
Clothing: Bring layers, thermals, warm jackets, and supportive shoes; nights can be very cold.
-
Sun Protection: Pack gloves, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
-
Food and Snacks: Bring a reusable water bottle, energy bars, and motion sickness pills.
-
Documents and Medications: Keep passports, permits, and personal medications handy.
Book Tibet Overland Tour with Himalaya Trekking Nepal
Independent travel is not allowed in Tibet, so all foreign travelers must book through a licensed tour operator. Himalaya Trekking Nepal offers expertly organized tours, typically in small groups with guaranteed departures. The all-inclusive 8-day Tibet Overland Tour costs between USD $1,650 to USD $1,750 per person, with discounts available for larger groups. You can choose private or group trips with flexible itineraries tailored to their preferences.
The tour package includes all essential services: a Tibet Travel Permit and Chinese visa, transportation by Jeep or 4x4, an English-speaking Tibetan guide, twin-sharing accommodation, and sightseeing & monastery entrance fees. Booking with a licensed operator ensures a hassle-free, safe, and enriching journey across Tibet’s high-altitude landscapes.
Ready to Explore the Roof of the World? Ready to experience Tibet? Plan your trip with us.
Book Your Tibet Overland Tour Now with Himalaya Trekking NepalAlso, contact us for Custom Trip Options
Gallery
FAQ's
-
Do I need a Tibet Travel Permit?
Yes, a Tibet Travel Permit is mandatory for all foreign travelers entering Tibet. This permit is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and is required to legally travel across Tibet. It is arranged by Himalaya Trekking Nepal before the trip. Without this permit, entry into Tibet is not allowed.
-
Can I do this tour independently?
No, independent travel is not permitted for foreign visitors. You must book through a licensed tour operator like Himalaya Trekking Nepal, which handles all the necessary permits, transportation, and guides. Tibet’s strict regulations require organized travel to ensure safety and compliance with local laws.
-
Is Everest Base Camp included?
Visiting Everest Base Camp (EBC) is optional. If you choose this excursion, it will require additional costs, usually around US$200 per person. We can help arrange this side trip if you wish to experience the North Face of Mount Everest up close.
-
What is the best time to travel?
The best time to visit Tibet is from April to October, with spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offering clear skies, moderate temperatures, and excellent visibility of the Himalayas. Summer (June–August) is warmer but may bring landslides in some areas, while winter brings extreme cold and possible road closures due to snow.
-
How is the accommodation for Tibet Overland Tour?
Accommodation varies by location:
-
Cities and Major Towns (Lhasa, Shigatse, Gyirong/Kerung): Hotels are usually 3-star standard, offering basic comforts like private bathrooms and heating.
-
Remote Areas (Tingri, Everest Base Camp area): Lodging is basic guesthouses, often with shared facilities.
-
Upgrades: Private rooms or higher-standard hotels may be arranged for an additional fee, depending on availability.
-
-
How much does a Tibet tour cost?
The all-inclusive price of the 8-day Tibet Overland Tour generally ranges from USD $1,650 to USD $1,750 per person, depending on group size and accommodations. Costs include transportation, English-speaking guides, permits, entrance fees, and breakfast. Lunch, dinner, personal expenses, and optional excursions like Everest Base Camp are not included.
-
Do Nepali citizens need a visa for Tibet?
Yes, Nepali citizens require a Tibet Travel Permit to enter Tibet. You must also have a valid Chinese visa, which is obtained from the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. The Tibet Travel Permit is arranged through a licensed tour operator.
-
Can I travel from Nepal to Tibet?
Yes, you can cross from Nepal to Tibet via the Kerung/Kyirong border. Independent travel is not allowed. Entry requires a valid Chinese visa and Tibet Travel Permit, and the journey must be organized by a licensed tour operator. Overland travel involves scenic drives through the Himalayas, high passes, and Tibetan towns before reaching Lhasa.
-
Can I use mobile/internet in Tibet?
Yes, you can use mobile and internet in major towns like Lhasa and Shigatse. Remote areas have weak or no signal. Hotels usually offer WiFi, but it may be slow.
-
Are there ATMs or cash points?
ATMs are available only in bigger cities. They are rare or unavailable in remote areas, so carry enough Chinese Yuan for daily expenses.
-
What kind of luggage is suitable for overland tours?
A soft duffel bag or backpack is best. Avoid hard suitcases. Carry a daypack for essentials like water, snacks, and documents.
-
Can solo travelers join the tour?
Yes. Solo travelers can join a group tour to reduce costs. Private tours are also available but cost more.
-
Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, but only with caution. The high altitude can be challenging, so medical advice is recommended. The tour requires long drives and basic stays in some areas.
.jpeg)
-
Safety Trips - Expert Guides
- Resonable Price
- Experienced
