8 Days Drive in Drive out Tibet Lhasa Overland Tour

Our journey begins early, departing from Kathmandu around 4:30 a.m. for a long, bumpy ride toward the Tibetan border. Along the way, you’ll be treated to the stunning Nepali landscape.

We’ll cross into Tibet near Kyirong (Kerung), where we’ll stop at Chinese immigration. Ensure you have your Tibet Travel Permit and Chinese Visa ready. After completing customs and immigration formalities, we’ll proceed to Kyirong town.

Overnight at Kyirong.

The Tibet tour begins today with a warm and hearty breakfast. Afterward, we set off toward the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, renowned as the highest plateau in the world.

Our route takes us through lush forests and cascading waterfalls before ascending to the Kong Tang Lamu Pass (5,236m), the highest pass on this journey. Along the way, we’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Shishapangma (8,027m) and pass by the serene Lake Peiku Tso en route to Old Tingri. If fortunate, we may glimpse the majestic Mount Everest (8,848m).

Continuing along the Friendship Highway, we will pass through magnificent valleys and charming Tibetan villages on our way to Tingri. Though long, the 5–6-hour journey is enriched by the stunning natural beauty and cultural scenery surrounding us.

Overnight at Tingri.

After breakfast, we will embark on a four-hour drive to Shigatse, enjoying breathtaking views. We will pass the tour’s highest point, Gyatchu La Pass, at 5,220m. We will visit the renowned Tashilhunpo Monastery, meaning “Heap of Glory.” Founded in 1447 by the first Dalai Lama, it serves as the residence of the Panchen Lama.

The monastery, attacked by Nepalese Gurkhas in 1791 and later reclaimed by the Chinese, is admired for its striking white walls, golden roofs, and grand architecture. It is the largest monastery in Shigatse and houses the colossal statue of the Maitreya Buddha in one of its chapels. If the timing is correct, we may even witness a Dharma Ceremony.

Following our visit to the monastery, we will explore the local market, offering a glimpse into the vibrant daily life of Tibetan people. The market is filled with fragrances, colorful products, and opportunities to interact with locals, allowing you to immerse yourself in their unique culture and traditions.

Overnight at Shigatse.

Today, we head to Gyantse to explore three renowned attractions in Tibet: Khumbum Stupa, Pelkhor Chorten, and Yamdrok Lake. Gyantse, the third-largest city in Tibet, is a hub for trading wool and timber with neighboring countries.

Our first stop is the Khumbum Stupa, the only Nepalese-style stupa in Tibet. Khumbum, called “Hundred Thousand Images of Buddha,” reflects its intricate decorations. Ascend the stupa clockwise for a stunning view of Gyantse’s old town.

Next, we visit Pelkhor Chorten, constructed in 1418, beside the stupa. This architectural marvel blends Han, Tibetan, and Nepalese styles. The site features 15 chapels and halls representing three Tibetan Buddhist traditions. The main temple, Tsulaklakang, spans three floors and showcases 15th-century murals and statues.

After lunch, we’ll drive to Lhasa, stopping at Yamdrok Lake, known as the turquoise lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes. Spanning 72 km, it is surrounded by snow-clad mountains. From Gambala Mountain Pass (4,790m), the lake’s beauty is magnified with Mt. Noijin Kangsang (7,191m) in the background.

Overnight at Lhasa.

This morning, we will begin our day with a visit to the legendary Potala Palace, the winter home of the Dalai Lama and one of the most celebrated landmarks in the world. Although access is limited to specific areas, you’ll have the chance to explore several chapels, including the audience hall, the golden burial Chortens of past Dalai Lamas, as well as admire the palace’s intricate wall paintings, statues, Thangkas, and Mandalas.

After lunch, we’ll continue to Jokhang Temple, regarded as the spiritual core of Tibetan Buddhism and a sacred treasure of Tibet. Constructed during the reign of King Songtsen Gampo, the temple was dedicated to his two queens, Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty and Princess Bhrikuti of Nepal. Both princesses brought vital Buddhist relics to Tibet as part of their dowries, which the temple now houses.

Later, we will explore the bustling Barkhor area surrounding Jokhang Temple. Watch devoted pilgrims performing prostrations at the temple’s entrance or join the kora, a clockwise pilgrimage circuit around the temple. You’ll also have the opportunity to stroll through the narrow alleys of old Lhasa, soaking in the city’s rich culture and vibrant atmosphere.

Overnight at Lhasa.

This morning, we will drive 8 km northwest of Lhasa to visit Drepung Monastery, one of Tibet’s “great three” Geluk Monasteries, established by Jamyang Choje in 1416. Once the largest Tibetan monastery, Drepung housed up to 10,000 monks in its prime. It also served as the winter residence for hundreds of monks from major Geluk monasteries who managed various chapels within the complex.

In the afternoon, we will travel 5 km from Lhasa to visit Sera Monastery, founded in 1419, another of the “great three” Geluk Monasteries. This monastery is particularly famous for the lively debating sessions held by monks between 3 and 5 p.m., offering an engaging insight into Tibetan monastic education and philosophy.

Overnight at Lhasa.

Today, we will start early. We will drive through the scenic highway to reach Shegar. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the Tibetan landscape, passing through remote villages and peaceful countryside.

Overnight at Shegar.

You will be driven to the airport in time to catch your flight back to Kathmandu.