8 Days Tibet Overland Tour (Drive in - Fly Out) is an extraordinary journey that will immerse you in the rich culture, traditions, and breathtaking landscapes of Tibet, often referred to as the "roof of the world." This tour takes you through three distinct parts, each offering unique experiences:
Scenic Landscapes: The first part of the tour treats you to incredible views of the world's highest plateau, with mesmerizing rock formations, cascades, and canyons set against the backdrop of majestic Mount Xishapagma (8,212 m). The landscape is shrouded in mist, creating an enchanting ambiance.
Cultural Exploration: The second part of the tour brings you closer to the heart of Tibet, allowing you to immerse yourself in the Shangrila of Tibet. You'll feel like you're part of a unique culture, steeped in legends, myths, rituals, and festivals. Explore lavishly decorated monasteries and temples, encounter saffron-clad monks, and witness the vibrant local lifestyle.
Himalayan Adventure: The last part of the tour takes you over the majestic Himalayan mountains, providing you with a breathtaking view of the Himalayan ranges, including the iconic Mount Everest (8,848 m). You'll enjoy an hour-long Trans-Himalayan flight from Lhasa to Kathmandu, offering a new perspective on the grandeur of the Himalayas.
This tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to admire the Himalayas from three different dimensions: from the south, the north, and the sky. You'll be captivated by the splendor of Tibet, its people, and its landscapes. The journey offers adventure, discovery, and unforgettable memories. You'll visit monasteries, meet monks, and experience the local way of life.
Travel to Tibet with this special package, featuring economical accommodations in Lhasa and en-route to Lhasa, all on a Bed & Breakfast basis. This tour invites you to embark on a fascinating voyage that goes beyond your wildest dreams. Tibet awaits, and your adventure of a lifetime begins here.
Your journey begins in Kathmandu at an elevation of 1,300 meters. You will embark on a scenic drive to Zhangmu, which is located at an altitude of 2,500 meters. The distance covered on this day will be approximately 123 kilometers.
You'll set out early in the morning and traverse the picturesque Nepalese countryside. After this beautiful drive, you will reach Kodari, the border town between Nepal and Tibet. At this point, you'll complete the necessary border formalities at the Nepalese immigration office.
From Kodari, there are two options to continue your journey into Tibet. If conditions permit, you may have an adventurous uphill drive by truck, which typically takes about an hour. In case of a landslide or adverse conditions, you might need to walk uphill for approximately 2 hours to reach the Chinese immigration point. After clearing immigration on the Tibetan side, you will check into a hotel or proceed with the drive to Nyalam, which is situated at an elevation of 3,700 meters.
You will spend the night in Nyalam, Tibet.
On this day, you'll continue your journey from either Zhangmu or Nyalam to Tingri, which stands at an elevation of 4,300 meters. The distance covered will be approximately 225 kilometers. Alternatively, if you're coming from Lhatse, you will be traveling 244 kilometers to reach Tingri.
During this day's drive, you will ascend to the highest plateau in the world, Tibet. The landscape will offer you a distinct feeling of being on the roof of the world. The route takes you across Lalung La, which is situated at an altitude of 5,050 meters. Weather permitting, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramas of the magnificent Himalayan mountain range, including peaks like Mount Cho Oyu (8,201 meters) and Mount Xishapagma (8,012 meters). These grand mountains, however, will appear dwarfed by the vastness of the Tibetan Plateau.
From Tingri, you'll be able to enjoy the spectacular view of Mount Everest, the tallest mountain in the world, standing at an imposing 8,848 meters. You will spend the night at a hotel in Tingri.
Please note that depending on your starting point (Zhangmu/Nyalam or Lhatse), you'll be traveling different distances to reach Tingri.
On this day, you will continue your scenic drive from Tingri to Lhatse, covering a distance of 244 kilometers. This route will take you across Gyatchu La, a high mountain pass standing at an elevation of 5,220 meters. It is the highest pass you will encounter on your journey to Lhasa.
After reaching Lhatse, you'll be on your way to Lhasa. It's worth noting that from Lhatse, there is a road that bifurcates to the west, leading to the sacred Mount Kailash.
You will spend the night at a hotel in Lhasa, which is located at an altitude of 3,900 meters.
In the morning, you will explore the Tashilhunpu Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama, in Xigatse. This is a significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery with a rich history and cultural importance.
Afterward, you will drive to Gyantse, which is approximately 90 kilometers away. In Gyantse, you will visit the Kumbum Stupa and Phalkor Monastery, two iconic landmarks of the town. The Kumbum Stupa is known for its unique architecture and the Phalkor Monastery is a key religious site.
You will spend the night at a hotel in Gyantse, which is situated at an altitude of 3,950 meters.
You'll embark on a full-day picturesque drive from Gyantse to Lhasa. Along the way, you'll cross several high mountain passes, including Karola Pass (5,010 meters) and Kambala Pass (4,794 meters), which will offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and mountains.
You'll also pass by the beautiful Yamdrok Lake, known for its stunning turquoise waters, and follow the course of the Brahmaputra River (Yarlung Tsangpo), which is considered the lifeline of Tibet.
Finally, you will arrive in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, where you'll spend the night at a hotel situated at an altitude of 3,650 meters.
During your stay in Lhasa, you will embark on a two-day sightseeing tour of this historic city. Your itinerary includes visits to some of the most significant cultural and religious sites in Tibet:
Jokhang Temple: This temple, located in the heart of Lhasa, is one of the most sacred and important pilgrimage sites for Tibetan Buddhists. It houses a revered statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, brought to Tibet as a dowry by the Chinese princess Wen Cheng.
Barkhor Bazaar: The Barkhor is a vibrant and ancient market surrounding the Jokhang Temple. It's a bustling place where you can experience Tibetan culture and shop for traditional crafts, clothing, and souvenirs.
Potala Palace: The iconic Potala Palace is an architectural marvel and was the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas for centuries. The palace complex is perched on a hill and offers a commanding view of Lhasa. You'll explore the various chapels, stupas, and the former living quarters of the Dalai Lamas.
Drepung Monastery: Drepung is one of the "great three" Gelug monasteries of Tibet and was once the largest monastic institution in the world. Explore its vast courtyards, chapels, and take in the panoramic view of Lhasa from the hillside.
Sera Monastery: Another of the "great three" monasteries, Sera is known for its lively debates among the monks. You can witness these debates during your visit, as well as explore the stunning religious artwork and architecture within the complex.
After these enriching experiences, you will return to your hotel in Lhasa for the night.
Your tour concludes with an early morning drive to Gonggar Airport in Lhasa, where you will catch a flight to Kathmandu or your next destination. This flight offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is a fitting farewell to your adventure in Tibet. Safe travels, and we hope you have enjoyed this unique journey through the roof of the world.
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