9 DAYS, TIBET OVERLAND

Itinerary

ITINERARY IN DETAILS:

DAY 01: ARRIVE LHASA
Fly to Lhasa via Chengdu.
Upon arrival in Lhasa, the capital, met & drive about 1.5 hours to Lhasa or Shangbala
At 3500m, it is advisable to take the rest of the day easily for better acclimatization. Have a leisurely 1 hour orientation drive around Lhasa city before dinner in the old city center.
(Dinner included)

DAY 02: LHASA
This morning, we tour Potala Palace - listed as an UNESCO world heritage site. It dominates the city of Lhasa and is perhaps the most famous landmark of Tibet. Afternoon, we cover Jokhang monastery - the "central cathedral", the Nunnery, which is the only one inside Lhasa city, Barkhor - the bustling market in the heart of old Lhasa with its narrow streets.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included)

DAY 03: LHASA
Today, we make an excursion to Ganden Monastery about 2 hours drive away. The Monastery is at 4500m and commands a great view. We will arrange for you to have a session with the monks for discussion. You will also enjoy a ½-day hike around the surrounding villages to experience the Tibetan rural life. Packed lunch.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included)

DAY 04: LHASA/YAMDROK LAKE/GYANTSE
Leaving Lhasa, we drive over 2 spectacular high passes, Kampa La at 4750m and Karo La at 5010m. We also pass the beautiful turquoise lake of Yamdrok. It’s a 261 km drive taking about 7 to 8 hours. Picnic lunch en route. Arrive in Gyantse (3950m)and check into Gyantse Hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included)

DAY 05: GYANTSE/XIGATSE
This morning, we tour Gyantse. Visit Pango Chorten and Kumbum (an oversized chorten of 100 000 images). Another 2 hours drive (60 km) brings us to Xigatse (3900m). Check into Xigatse Hotel or similar. Then, tour the impressive Tashilungpo Monastery, seat of Panchen Lama, second in order to Dalai Lama.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included)

DAY 06: XIGATSE/XEGAR
Drive another 244km taking about 8 to 9 hours. The journey goes through the vast Tibetan plateau. In Xegar (4200m), check into Himalayan Inn or similar.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included)

DAY 07: XEGAR/ZHANGMU
It’s about 7 hours drive today and probably the most spectacular day. From the barren rugged landscape of Tibet, we cross the mighty Himalayas and scenery changes to rich forests, typical of the Nepalese foothills. On a clear day, you may catch a glimpse of Everest - the world’s highest peak! Zhangmu is at 2500. Overnight in Zhangmu Hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included)

DAY 08: ZHANGMU/KATHMANDU
Cross the Friendship Bridge and you are back in Nepal. Another 6 hours drive brings you back to Kathmandu. Check into Yak & Yeti for 1 night.
(Breakfast included)

DAY 09: DEPART KATHMANDU
Transport to airport for flight out.