10 DAYS FROSSING THE HIMALAYA FROM LHASA TO KATHMANDU

Car Transfer: Airport to Hotel

Upon arrival, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and acclimatise to the weather in the comfort of the hotel. Due to Lhasa’s high altitude of 3,500m, it is highly recommended to take it easy and allow your body to adjust gradually on the first day.

Potala Palace

 Begin your exploration of Lhasa with a remarkable start by visiting the illustrious Potala Palace. Constructed over 1300 years ago during the Tang Dynasty, this architectural marvel is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Serving as a significant historical and cultural repository of Tibetan Buddhism, the Potala Palace boasts a rich collection of ancient Tibetan artefacts, including frescos, stupas, and Buddha images.

Please note that visiting time inside the Potala Palace and Museum is limited to 1 hour.

Kora Pilgrim Route Walk

If you are keen, consider joining local devotees in walking the “Kora”, the sacred pilgrim route around the Potala Palace.

Barkhor Square & Jokhang Monastery

Explore the vibrant Barkhor Square, a bustling market nestled in the heart of old Lhasa, renowned for its labyrinthine narrow streets. In the quieter hours, venture to Jokhang Monastery, often referred to as the “central cathedral,” serving as the religious hub for Tibetan Buddhism.

“Princess Wencheng”Performance

Tonight, attend the live drama performance of “Princess Wencheng” (Showtime: 20:00 – 22:00). Set against the backdrop of the mountains, the performance recounts the historical tale of Princess Wencheng’s marriage to the Tibetan King 1,400 years ago (subject to weather conditions).

Highlights of Lhasa

Embark on a visit to Norbulingka, the serene summer palace of the Dalai Lama, nestled within a tranquil and picturesque garden in the western part of Lhasa. Norbulingka serves as a symbolic confluence of Tibetan and inland cultures.

Your journey then takes you to the Tibet Museum, where an array of treasures unearthed from Tibet await your exploration. Among its exhibits are a collection of Tangkas dating back to ancient times, crafted with natural mineral materials, their colours retaining their vibrancy over time.

Venture to Sera Monastery, renowned as one of Tibet’s best-preserved monastic complexes. Enclosed within its whitewashed walls and adorned golden roofs, this monastery is home to several hundred monks who engage in rigorous study and contemplation. Don’t miss the captivating monk debating sessions (Mon-Fri afternoons only).

Car Transfer: Lhasa to Gyantse with Sightseeing

Today, depart from Lhasa towards Gyantse, a meticulously preserved Tibetan old town (300km/approx. 6h). Along the journey, marvel at the awe-inspiring Tibetan landscape, with highlights including a stop at Kampa La pass (4,750m).

Yamdrok Lake to Karo La

Here, you’ll have the opportunity to soak in a panoramic vista of the revered Yamdrok Lake and offer your wishes by hanging prayer flags. Indulge in some light refreshments by the lakeside (subject to weather conditions), before continuing your drive (50km/approx. 1h) to Karo La pass (5,020m). This leg of the journey culminates in a breathtaking view of the Karo La Glacier, a magnificent natural wonder reputed to have remained unchanged for millennia.

Pelkor Chode Monastery

Continue your journey towards Gyantse (75km/approx. 2.5h). En route, pause to explore the Pelkor Chode Monastery and the Kumbum, where you’ll encounter the largest pagoda and vibrant murals depicting various aspects of Buddhist teachings.

Local Family Visit

Immerse yourself in the warmth of Tibetan hospitality with a visit to a local Tibetan family. Indulge in snacks and refreshments while gaining insights into their daily routines and customs.

Upon arrival in Gyantse, settle into your accommodations. If you’re up for it, consider taking a stroll through the charming old town, soaking in its historical ambiance.

Gyantse Dzong Morning Hike

For the adventurous, take part in an early morning hike (approx. 45min) to the top of Gyantse Dzong. From there, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the quaint old town below and the expansive fields stretching out into the distance.

Pala Manor

A short (4km) drive from town brings you to Pala Manor, once owned by the illustrious Pala family, among the wealthiest families in Tibetan history. This well-preserved manor offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Tibetan nobility, showcasing lavish rooms and living quarters. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the modest, narrow rooms where the serfs resided, providing insight into the social dynamics of the time.

Car Transfer: Gyantse to Shigatse

Continue onwards to Shigatse (60km/approx. 2hrs) and visit the impressive Tashilungpo Monastery, the esteemed seat of the Panchen Lama, the second-ranking figure in Tibetan Buddhism after the Dalai Lama.

Car Transfer：Shigatse to Tingri via Sakya Monastery

Transfer to Tringri (approx 250km/5hrs drive). Along the way, we make a stop at Sakya Monastery for a visit. This monastery holds significance as it belongs to one of the four primary schools of Tibetan Buddhism, the Sakyapa sect. One notable feature of the Sakyapa sect is the hereditary lineage of its lamas.

Afterwards, we continue our journey to Basong Town, situated closest to Everest Base Camp, before proceeding onward to Everest Base Camp itself.

Rongbuk Monastery

Pay a visit to Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world.

Car Transfer: Tingri to Jilong

Today’s journey promises 6-7 hours of awe-inspiring driving through spectacular landscapes. Departing from the barren and rugged terrain of Tibet, we traverse the formidable Himalayas, witnessing a dramatic transformation in scenery. As we descend into the Nepalese foothills, the landscape transitions to lush forests, characteristic of the region. Prepare to be captivated by the diverse and breathtaking vistas that unfold before us along this unforgettable route.

Car Transfer: Jilong to Kathmandu

After crossing the border, we embark on foot across the Friendship Bridge, marking our entry into Nepal. Following this, we continue our journey with an additional 8 hours of driving, eventually arriving in Kathmandu, the vibrant and exotic capital of Nepal.

Highlights of Kathmandu

Enjoy a private guided tour of three significant UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley. Begin at the Boudhanath Stupa, revered as one of the most sacred Buddhist stupas globally, followed by a visit to Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, another revered Buddhist stupa in Nepal.

In the afternoon, explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, also called Basantapur Durbar or Hanuman Dhoka. Situated in the heart of old Kathmandu city, this historic square impresses visitors with its intricate wood carvings and rich historical significance.

Car Transfer: Hotel to Airport

You will be met by your driver and transferred to the airport for your onward journey.