Retreal Travel, Holidays for the Mind
Drive overland to Tibet - the Roof of the World
Travelling overland between Kathmandu and Lhasa is an incredible journey in which you can see the worlds highest mountains, travel on the worlds highest plain, meet nomadic Tibetan pilgrims and walk amidst the burning butter lamps and chanting monks of Tibet's ancient and legendary Buddhist monasteries.
This is a wonderful and amazing trip. However if you are not up for a bit of adventure, or for accommodation and amenities that may be far from perfect, perhaps this trip is not for you, while the trip to Tibet is not easy it is well worth the effort. Tibet was opened for tourism in 1985. Before this it avoided influence from the western world and developed it's unique culture and religion independently. The infrastructure of the tourist industry is still very basic in this remote country. Please do not expect the standard you are accustomed to in the West. However, every effort will be made under the circumstance to ensure a smooth & pleasant trip.
Sample itinerary
Day 1 : KATHMANDU-ZHANGMU (2300m.)- 123 kms. Early morning drive from Kathmandu to Kodari. After doing immigration and custom formalities drive uphill to Zhangmu Immigration Post. Complete custom formalities. O/nt at Hotel Zhangmu
Day 2 : ZHANGMU-XEGAR (4350m.) - 244kms. Drive to Xegar crossing NYALAMU PASS(3800m.) & LALUNG LA PASS (5050m.). This drive offers fantastic view of the high mountains including Everest (8848m.). O/nt at Hotel Xegar.
Day 3 : XEGAR-XIGATSE (3900m.)- 244kms. Drive (Approx 8hrs) to Xigatse. Xigatse has the famous Tashilunpo Monastery and the seat of Panchen Lama. O/nt at Hotel Xigatse.
Day 4 : XIGATSE-GYANTSE (3900m.) - 90kms. In the morning visit Tashilunpo Monastery and the free market of Xigatse. In the afternoon drive to Gyantse and visit Phalkor Monastery and Khumbum Stupa. O/nt at Hotel Gyantse.
Day 5 : GYANTSE-LHASA (3650m.). 259Kms. The drive to Lhasa takes 8 hours, crossing two passes - THE KAROLA (5010M.) and KAMBA LA (4794M.) via Yamdrok Tso lake. O/nt in Lhasa.
Day 6/7 : LHASA - Sightseeing tour of Potala Palace, Norbulinka Palace. Jokhang Temple, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery and Barkhor Bazaar.
Day 8 : Transfer to Gonggar airport for your onward flight to Kathmandu.
Cost Includes: Accommodation on twin sharing & BB Basis as per hotel plan, Sightseeing Tours, Monastery entrance fees, English speaking Tibetan Guide, Private ground transfers, Travel Permit & Tibet / China Visa fee.
Cost Excludes: Airfares, Airport taxes, Nepal re-entry visa fee, Travel Insurance, Extra cost in the event of landslide for hiring porterage or arranging additional transportation and expenses of personal nature. IMPORTANT PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION
Classic & Wilderness treks The Classic treks visit the most popular areas of Tibet which are famous for their spectacular views and diverse cultures. Fully supported our trekking expeditions are thoroughly equipped to the last detail. Under the guidance of a professional Sirdar, a superb team of Sherpas, cooks, kitchen staff and porters give the treks considerable style and allow access to some of the remotest parts of the Tibetian Plateau.
