- 4.9/5 438 Latest reviews
- Destination: China, Nepal
- Duration: 10 Days
- Tour Type: Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style: Classic
About This Trip
Embark on a 10-day journey through the awe-inspiring Himalayas, traveling by road from China to Nepal to visit the most sought-after Tibetan sites and Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu. Beginning in the sacred city of Lhasa, discover Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier, Gyantse, and Shigatse, spend a night at Everest Base Camp, and finally descend into the spiritual heart of Nepal in Kathmandu Valley.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 6
China
Lhasa: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery
Lhasa - Shigatse: Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier, Gyantse's Ancient Town
Mount Everest: Overnight at Everest Base Camp, Rongbuk Monastery
7 - 10
Nepal
Kathmandu: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Kumari Temple
Patan: Patan Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa
Bhaktapur: Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Changu Narayan Temple
Kathmandu: Departure
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa
Upon arriving in Lhasa, your guide and driver will warmly welcome you with a traditional Tibetan white scarf, the “Khata.” You will then be transferred to your hotel in the city center, a journey of approximately one hour via expressway. The remainder of the day is free to rest, acclimate to the high altitude of 3,650 meters, and prepare for the adventures on the plateau.
- Lhasa
- Day 2: Lhasa – Drepung & Sera Monasteries
Discover the spiritual essence of Lhasa on this enriching day tour. Begin with Drepung Monastery, one of Tibet’s largest and most impressive monastic complexes, where the chants of monks fill the ancient halls. Admire the detailed architecture and learn about Tibetan Buddhist practices. Next, visit Sera Monastery, famous for its animated debates, where monks passionately discuss Buddhist philosophy and teachings.
- B , L
- Lhasa
- Day 3: Lhasa – Potala Palace & Jokhang Temple
Today, explore some of Lhasa’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the magnificent Potala Palace, perched on Red Mountain and divided into the White and Red Palaces. As the world’s highest palace, rising over 300 meters in the heart of Lhasa Valley, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Tibet’s religious and administrative history under the guidance of your expert guide.
Next, head to Jokhang Temple, home to the sacred 12-year-old Shakyamuni statue and considered Tibet’s holiest site. Walk along Barkhor Street alongside pilgrims to feel the city’s spiritual pulse, and enjoy a taste of Tibetan culture at a local teahouse.
- B , L
- Lhasa
- Day 4: Lhasa – Gyantse – Shigatse
After breakfast, depart for Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. The scenic drive spans approximately 7 to 8 hours, covering 340 kilometers, and showcases stunning natural landscapes such as Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier. Enjoy a scenic 20-kilometer stretch along the lake, stopping at a local village to meet lakeside farmers and savor a traditional farmhouse lunch.
Continue onward for about an hour to marvel at the impressive Karola Glacier, which cascades like a frozen waterfall along the mountainside. Pass Lake Manla and Gyantse’s historic town before arriving in Shigatse to conclude the day’s journey.
- B , L
- Shigatse
- Day 5: Shigatse – Tingri – Everest Base Camp
Begin your unforgettable journey to Mount Everest with a 6.5-hour drive covering 330 kilometers. Along the way, pause at several viewpoints to catch glimpses of Everest, including a stop at Dingri after roughly four hours of travel.
Continue into the Everest scenic area, taking in panoramic views of the Himalayan range from Gawula Pass. Follow the dedicated route toward Everest, with the majestic peak growing ever closer, until you reach the northern base camp. Arrive in time for sunset and witness the awe-inspiring sight of the world’s highest mountain glowing in golden light.
- B , L
- Everest Base Camp
- Day 6: Everest Base Camp – Tingri – Gyirong (Kyirong)
If weather permits, start the day with a stunning sunrise over Mount Everest, or take a peaceful walk near Everest Base Camp to soak in the serene morning atmosphere. Then, visit Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest temple and a filming location for the movie 2012, capturing both the natural beauty and cultural significance of Everest.
Afterward, depart for Gyirong in Tibet. Along the way, admire the majestic Shishapangma peak and the scenic Peiku Tso Lake. Cross the 5,200-meter Kongtang La Pass and gradually descend through dramatic Himalayan canyons until reaching the border town of Gyirong.
- B , L
- Gyirong
- Day 7: Gyirong – Kathmandu
Take a final photo beneath the impressive Chinese border gate before saying goodbye to Tibet. Cross the remarkable Sino-Nepal Friendship Bridge over the canyon, where you will be welcomed by the Nepali team at the border. From there, a private transfer will bring you to your hotel in Kathmandu to continue your journey.
- B
- Kathmandu
- Day 8: Kathmandu – Patan – Kathmandu
Begin the day at the bustling Ason Tole Vegetable and Spice Market, where the vibrant sights and smells offer a true taste of local life. Continue to Kathmandu Durbar Square to visit the famous Kumari Temple, home to the living Goddess, along with the impressive Taleju Temple and the striking Kala Bhairav statue.
In the afternoon, travel to Patan to explore its historic Durbar Square, one of the region’s three notable squares. End the day at Swayambhunath, the hilltop stupa, where panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley provide a peaceful and reflective evening experience.
- B
- Kathmandu
- Day 9: Kathmandu – Bhaktapur – Kathmandu
Begin your day exploring Nepal’s rich spiritual heritage with a visit to the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, an important Hindu site situated along the Bagmati River. Then, experience the serene atmosphere of the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, a center of Buddhist devotion.
Finish your cultural journey at Changu Narayan Temple, the oldest temple in the Kathmandu Valley, celebrated for its intricate wooden carvings and classic pagoda-style architecture.
- B
- Kathmandu
- Day 10: Kathmandu – Departure
After breakfast, your memorable journey comes to a close. A private transfer will take you to the airport for your onward flight, whether returning home or continuing to your next destination.
- B
Quick Question
CONTACT A TRAVEL EXPERT
1-to-1 Service | Reply within 24hrs | Expert's Advice
