Tibet Overland Tour

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Did you know that between the Nepal and China border, exists a small country, famously known as the roof of the world? This is a country named Tibet, located at a distance of 600 kilometers northeast of Kathmandu. Besides, Tibet also sits on the world's highest plateau at an altitude of over 4,500 meters or 14,800 Ft. Due to that reason, the Tibet Overland Tour will be one of the most adventurous, breathtaking yet challenging tours you can go for with the Global Adventure Trekking Team. Enveloped by the mighty Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Tibet is not just a place of stunning landscapes but also a deeply spiritual region, with Tibetan Buddhism influencing every aspect of life.

This 6-day- Budget Tour to Tibet also offers travelers an opportunity to explore Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet known as the cultural epicenter. Furthermore, Lhasa is also known as the former winter residence of Dalai Lama as he used to spend winters in Lhasa. Apart from these, the capital city of Tibet is also home to iconic landmarks such as the Potala Palace and the sacred Jokhang Temple. With the GAT team, you will be in for one of the most amazing budget tours to Tibet.

The Tibet Overland Tour begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, if you want to go for a drive, we can arrange that as well. Therefore, we will have two ways to begin the Kathmandu to Tibet Budget Journey. As you reach Tibet, it will be a treat for your eyes and heart. Besides, you will also get chances to stroll around the city's old quarters, which include, Barkhor Street. This street stands as one of the most significant parts of any tour to Tibet and Lhasa as it offers a glimpse into traditional Tibetan life. Moreover, you will also see pilgrims walking clockwise around monasteries spinning prayer wheels in this place.

On the whole, the Tibet and Lhasa Overland Tour is a perfect way to see how modernization and ancient charms can be equally valued at once. Therefore, get ready for an adventure and insightful journey to Tibet and its capital, Lhasa.

Why Go for Tibet Overland Tour with Global Adventure Trekking?

The journey to Tibet is not just a trip, it's more like a once-in-a-lifetime experience of culture, tradition, lifestyle, and scenes. If you are going on such a journey, you must carefully choose the travel agency that can stand and fulfill your requirements. That's because one right travel companion can make a huge difference in the overall experience. Global Adventure Trekking (GAT) stands out as a trusted name in the industry, ensuring your Tibet Overland Tour is safe, insightful, and truly unforgettable.

Well, here are the reasons why:

27 Years of Experience in crafting travel and trekking packages

First things first, the Global Adventure Trekking team has actively provided trekking and traveling services (packages) for more than 25 years. Due to such an immense experience, our team has perfected the art of adventure travel, curating well-structured itineraries that offer authentic and immersive experiences. Moreover, the deep-rooted knowledge about Tibet, that we have, guarantees an unforgettable journey across the majestic landscapes of the Himalayas.

Our Commitment to Sustainable and Responsible Tourism

Since our establishment, the Global Adventure Trekking team has always pushed forward for sustainable and responsible tourism. We make sure that no tour or travel organized by GAT causes negative impacts on the present and future generations of the country. With that in the point of view, every 5% of our total income also goes for the welfare of the remote communities of the country. So, going on a trip with us means you contribute to at least one meaningful cause.

Trusted and Recognized by the Tourism Authorities

Due to our services and 25 years of non-stop involvement in the tourism industry and the satisfaction of many travelers, trekkers, and tourists, we have gained acknowledgment from all the tourism authorities in Nepal. With their credibility, travelers can opt for one of the best tours to Tibet with GAT.

Expert Guides and Safety Training

Global Adventure Trekking also has a group of professional, seasoned, and experienced guides with valid government licenses. Besides, the guides also have fluent spoken English with which they can help you interact with locals. Furthermore, the travelers can also get deeper insights into the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of Tibet and Lhasa.

Travelers' Safety Ensured

Our guides will also carry first aid kits while going on the trip. This will ensure proper health, and wellness, and assist us in handling minor medical concerns during the tour to Tibet and Lhasa.

Safe and reliable Transportation

With the Global Adventure Trekking team, you can be assured of well-maintained, safety-checked, and comfortable vehicles for transportation. Moreover, the GAT team also ensures that the drivers have valid licenses and experience in driving on the route from Nepal to Tibet.

Adventure to the Fullest with Healthy and Hygienic Food and Accommodation

Well, the Global Adventure Trekking team will also arrange hygienic and cozy accommodation that offers healthy and hygienic food. Moreover, you can also expect cozy rooms, hot water for showers, WiFi, and many more facilities in the hotels or guesthouses. This will make the tour to Tibet more adventurous as the travelers can go for proper rest in the evening after dinner.

Tibet Overland Tour Permits Requirements

Going to Tibet from Nepal means we will be crossing an international border between Nepal and China. Due to that reason, travelers must acquire a Chinese VISA to be eligible to cross the border. Along with the Chinese VISA, you will also need to obtain a special permit. The Chinese VISA can be obtained from the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. However, with Global Adventure Trekking, our guides will assist you in obtaining both the Tibet Travel Permit and Chinese Visa.

To obtain these permits, we request the travelers to provide us with all the necessary documents. If you have any questions or queries regarding the documents, please feel free to contact Global Adventure Trekking. Also, remember that it takes 6 to 7 days to get your Chinese visa and Tibet Travel Permit from the date of application submission. Therefore, we recommend that travelers apply almost a couple of weeks before the travel date.

Budget Tibet Tour Highlights

  • One of the most adventurous and budget-friendly tours to Tibet, a country between Nepal and China.
  • The tour starts with travelers exploring Kathmandu city before heading out to Tibet.
  • You can choose between a scenic flight to Lhasa or an adventurous drive to the Timure border.
  • Explore Tibet’s spiritual capital with visits to the iconic Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Sera Monastery, and Drepung Monastery.
  • Immerse yourself in local traditions, sacred rituals, and the timeless beauty of the Tibetan Plateau.
  • Chances to interact with the locals to know more about the region, settlements, and communities of Tibet.

Tibet Overland Tour Itinerary Outline

  • Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to the Hotel
  • Day 02: Preparation and Tour of Kathmandu Valley
  • Day 03: Flight to Lhasa or Drive to Timure Border from Kathmandu
  • Day 4-5: Two Days Fill Lhasa (Tibet) Exploration
  • Day 06: Flight or Drive back to Kathmandu

Itinerary

Welcome to Nepal or more specifically, welcome to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. As you step out of the airplane at the Tribhuwan International Airport, you will first be welcomed by the crisp Himalayan air and the warm hospitality of our local representatives. From there, the representatives from Global Adventure Trekking will transfer you to the hotel.

In the hotel, the staff will take your belongings to your room and other hotel staff will welcome you with a refreshing welcome drink. After that, you can check in at your room and go for a quick stroll of the nearby areas. Take your time to check out some cafes, restaurants, and even the spas before returning to the hotel. In the evening, we invite you for a delicious Welcome Dinner, where you will meet our representatives and guides as well. After that, go for a cozy sleep in the hotel before starting with the Tibet Overland Tour.

We will not begin to travel toward Tibet or Lhasa on the second day as some important preparations and planning are remaining. However, we make sure that the day does not go boring for you. To make the day exciting and insightful, the guides will take you on a tour of Kathmandu city. Nevertheless, the tour only begins after we go for a final training and preparation session.

You might have many questions about Tibet’s high-altitude terrain or what crossing the border feels like. Well, let us tell you that this is the perfect time to get all the details sorted! Along with that, the GAT representatives will also finalize the Tibet Travel Permit and Group Visa for hassle-free entry into Tibet and Lhasa. In the afternoon, we will take you on a tour of Kathmandu City. You will get chances to visit some outstanding and significant places in the valley, including the Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Bouddhanath Stupa.

Moreover, you will stroll around the Patan and Basantapur Durbar Square while strolling around the traditional Newari-styled narrow paths. Furthermore, you also get chances to indulge in the local delicacies. After that, you will return to the hotel, and have a delicious and fulfilling dinner before sleeping for another night in Kathmandu.

On the third day, we will begin the journey towards the most-awaited Tibet. There are two ways to transport from Nepal to Lhasa or Tibet; either by airplane or by bus. If you’re taking the flight to Lhasa, you will be in for one of the most breathtaking aerial journeys in the world. As the plane flies over the Himalayas, you can witness the jaw-dropping views of Mt. Everest (8,848m), Mt. Makalu (8,481m), and the Tibetan Plateau. As the plane lands and you get off the flight, our representatives will welcome you to the roof of the world and then drive you to the hotel.

The drive from the airport offers glimpses of the Yarlung Tsangpo River and Tibet’s vast, open landscapes. This makes it one of the most perfect introductions to the sacred lands of monasteries and mountains. However, if you go for a drive from Nepal to Tibet, you will experience a drive through lush hills, cascading waterfalls, and winding roads with stunning views of the Langtang Himalayan range. Furthermore, the bus also takes you to the bustling town of Trishuli Bazaar before entering the Langtang National Park region.

As the bus takes you to Timure, you will be driven to the hotel. Whether you go on a drive or fly from Nepal to Tibet, the guides will take you to the hotel. Here, you can check in to your room, have some lunch, and then get proper sleep.

This is the most amazing and insightful day of the overall Tibet Overland Tour or the Budget Tour Tibet from Nepal. As you have a delicious and fulfilling breakfast in the hotel, the guides will take you on an exciting tour of Lhasa. Here are the places that we visit on these two days:

Potala Palace

Our day begins as the guides from Global Adventure Trekking take you on an exploration of the Potala Palace. This place is known to be the former winter home of the Dalai Lama and also one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Tibet. You need to climb some staircases to reach the top of the Potala Palace which offers spectacular panoramic views of Lhasa. Besides, the Palace itself is something that you must check out. The ornate chapels, golden tombs of past Dalai Lamas, intricate murals, and sacred relics are enough to take you deep into the significance of this historical palace. Other than that, you will also get to see Buddhist scriptures, colorful decorative paintings, and beautiful wood and clay carvings along with 1,800 grottoes dedicated to various deities.

Take your time to explore this significant historical monument before we head toward the next significant destination of the day.

Norbulingka Palace

After visiting Dalai Lama's winter residence, we will make our way to his former summer residence, the Norbulingka Palace. As you walk here, you will notice that the route to the Norbulingka Palace goes through lush gardens, serene ponds, and beautifully painted pavilions.

If you visit Lhasa during the summer and autumn seasons, you can see this palace converted into a lively spot with dancing, singing, music, and all kinds of festivities. Talking about the palace itself, it consists of a collection of Italian Chandeliers, Ajanta frescoes, Tibetan carpets, and plenty of other interesting stuff. Moreover, the explorers will also find a small zoo inside the palace. In the zoo, you can witness different animals, including lynx, white-bibbed Himalayan bears, and red, ring-tailed lesser pandas.

As a whole, you will be on an amazing and insightful tour of Tibet within the first half of the day. However, there is so much more to explore. So, keep yourself energetic and enthusiastic.

Jokhang Temple

Our third destination in the 6-Day Tibet Overland Tour will be the Jokhang temple, known as one of the oldest temples in Lhasa. In this temple, you can sense that the environment is filled with the scent of burning butter lamps and the deep hum of chanting monks. One of the most significant things about this temple is that it consists of a 12-year-old image of Buddha. Remember that, this Buddha's image is known to be the most revered statue in Tibetan Buddhism.

Outside the temple, you will see many pilgrims performing Kora, a special clockwise directional walk around the temple. Well, you can also participate in that and spin the prayer wheels while watching pilgrims delving deep into devotion.

Do you know that this temple's history also connects with Nepali ancestry? As you enter the temple, you can also see depictions of Shakyamuni Buddha. People believe that Princess Wencheng from the Tang Dynasty and Princess Bhrikuti from Nepal gifted these depictions to King Songsten Gampo in their marriage. After watching all these significant things in the temple, make sure to stroll your eyes around the temple as well. The Jokhang Temple, made of wood and stone, showcases the perfect mix of Tibetan Buddhist styles and architectural influences from China, India, and Nepal. After you explore the temple properly, we will head towards another amazing destination for the day.

Barkhor Bazaar

After all the temples and vihars, it's time for us to go for a leisure stroll. Therefore, the next destination of this Budget Tibet Tour will be the Barkhor Bazaar. Anyone who visits Tibet for the first time will love this uniquely-settled marketplace with many shops and sights to check out. Furthermore, this circular street surrounding Jokhang Temple also stands as the lifeline of Lhasa’s old town, where Tibetan culture thrives.

If you want to buy some souvenirs to take back home, this will probably be one of the best times to do that throughout the Tibet Overland Tour journey. In the Barkhor market, you will see different stalls selling prayer flags, Tibetan jewelry, handcrafted thangkas, yak wool scarves, and traditional Tibetan incense.

Once you explore the Bazaar, get what you want, and fulfill your wishes, we will return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. However, be prepared because we still have one more day to explore Lhasa before returning to Kathmandu.

Drepung Monastery

As you wake up the next day and have breakfast in the hotel, it will be a day of exploration. This day's exploration of the Tibet Overland Tour begins with a visit to the Drepung Monastery. This monastery is known to be the world's biggest monastery with over 1000 monks residing there. Moreover, the overall infrastructure of the monastery showcases outstanding cravings and artworks of the history of Lhasa and Tibet. After the two monasteries that we explored the other day, this is a perfect chance for you to soak deep into the Tibetan culture and religious beliefs.

Sera Monastery

Finally, it's the last destination of the Tibet Overland Tour with Global Adventure Trekking. As you explore the Drepung monastery and have your breakfast, we will visit the Sera monastery. Located in the high mountains and surrounded by white buildings, the Sera Monastery is a perfect place to explore for peace and tranquility. Moreover, you can also participate with the monks and engage in some lively debate in the afternoon. Last but not least, you will experience one of the most peaceful and calm days throughout the Tibet Overland Tour after visiting the Sera Monastery.

After that, we will return to the hotel for dinner before taking the final cozy sleep in the Budget Tour to Tibet and Lhasa.

As you wake up, get freshened up, and have your last breakfast in the Tibet Overland Tour package, we request travelers to check all their belongings properly and pack their bags. Once everything is done, the representatives will drive you to the airport for a flight back to Kathmandu or directly drive you to Kathmandu from the Timure Border. As you reach Kathmandu, our 6-day Budget Tour to Tibet comes to an official end.

Cost Details

Includes

  • Pick up and Drop off services by private van from and to the airport.
  • All the permits required for the Tibet Overland Tour
  • Professional, seasoned, and English-speaking guide to lead you on the tour.
  • Accommodation on Twin Sharing Room Basis
  • Sightseeing and monastery entrance fees are as per our itinerary.
  • Three-time meals throughout the tour.

Excludes

  • Insurance of any kind.
  • Personal Expenses such as drinks, tips, etc.
  • Any additional cost due to natural calamities and unforeseen circumstances.

Essential Information

VISA and Permit Requirements for the Tibet Overland Tour

One of the most important things that everyone must know before going for the Tibet Overland Tour is the permit. Yes! Remember that the permits required for this tour differ from the ones we need for tours inside Nepal. Remember that, the travelers must obtain a Tibet travel permit to be eligible to cross the border. There are only two permits or passes for this tour. However, it takes almost a couple of weeks for the VISA and permits to arrive.

All you need to do is send us some important documents. Once we receive all the documents from your side, we will arrange the permits. Once the permits are all obtained, the GAT team will take you to the Tibet Overland Tour.

Best Season to Visit Tibet (Lhasa)

Tibet is located in the lap of the Himalayas, which means that the mountains can highly impact the weather and climatic conditions here. Due to that reason, we recommend that travelers properly study the best season to go for the Tiber Overland Tour before making any plans.

If you ask us, we recommend that travelers plan the Tibet overland tour in the Spring season (April to May) and Autumn season (September to October) for the best experience. During these seasons, the temperatures are mild, ranging from 10 degrees Celsius to 20 degrees Celsius. Due to that reason, you will be offered lush green valleys, blooming wildflowers, and crystal-clear skies. As the weather remains clear, the travelers will also visit iconic sites like Potala Palace, and Jokhang Temple, and watch the Everest Base Camp without the discomfort of extreme cold or scorching heat.

The dry and stable climate also guarantees unobstructed views of the snow-capped peaks, turning your journey into a visual masterpiece. Moreover, during the spring season, you will encounter fewer tourists, allowing for a more peaceful and immersive experience. The same goes for the Autumn season as well. This season offers crisp, fresh air and mesmerizing golden landscapes. The post-monsoon skies turn deep blue, creating a stunning contrast against the golden-brown highlands and the white Himalayan giants.

However, if you want some adventure and adrenaline rush, Global Adventure Trekking also operates a Budget tour to Tibet and Lhasa in the winter season. Nevertheless, during the winter season, the conditions might not be very good for the tour. Therefore, we recommend that travelers go for the Tibet Overland Tour during the Spring or Autumn season.

Transportation Facilities During the Tibet Overland Tour

There are basically two ways to reach from Kathmandu to Tibet or Lhasa; either by flight or via a private van. Yes, we will either fly to the Lhasa Airport or drive to Timure Border. Regardless of whether you go via flight or drive, the Global Adventure Trekking team ensures safety and security. Along with that, we also make sure that the travelers have no problems, issues, or obstacles throughout the drive or flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa. As you land at the Tribhuwan International Airport to begin the overland Tibet tour, the representatives from GAT drive you to the hotel in a private van.

Also, as you reach the Timure Border, our representatives will drive you to Lhasa in a private van. In all of these cases, the GAT team makes sure that the drivers have valid licenses and experience of driving in the route. Therefore, travelers can be completely carefree and enjoy the adventurous, adrenaline-rushing, and scenic drive or flight from Kathmandu to Tibet (Lhasa).

How to Prepare for the Budget Tibet Tour?

Preparing for the 6-Day Tour to Tibet is not very difficult it does not require the travelers to go for any strenuous physical activities. Besides, we will also make proper arrangements for your stay and meals, so that you get proper rest and stay fit and healthy during the journey.

However, there are still a few preparations that travelers must keep in mind and implement during the Tibet Overland Tour:

  • Make sure to apply for the Chinese Visa and Tibet entry permit a couple of weeks before the trip. That is because it takes almost a couple of weeks for the visa and permits to reach your hand.
  • Remember to check your backpacks a couple of times before leaving for the tour. This helps you ensure that you carry all the important documents.
  • You shall also pack smart. By this, we mean to include only whatever is required for high-altitude travel, unpredictable weather, and extreme temperatures.
  • Carry some cash (Chinese Yuan), snacks, and drinks. With that, you can go on this tour in a healthy, comfortable, and adventurous way.
  • Before booking the Tibet Overland Tour, we recommend that travelers run through different travel agencies. Also, check the pricing and package included offered by all the agencies.
  • .Tibet is located at an altitude of over 4,000 meters. Therefore, we recommend you consult doctors before booking the tour. If required and possible, also go for a complete health checkup.
  • Do not forget to carry your smartphones, cameras, charger, and power bank. This will make sure that you collect as many memories as possible and that you do not run out of power in these electronic devices.
  • As this is a budget tour, you shall also be ready and prepared for basic accommodation and toilets.

Difficulty Level of Tibet Overland Tour - Is it Suitable for Everyone?

The Tibet Overland Tour, also known as the Budget Tour to Tibet stands as one of the most breathtaking, adventurous, and high-altitude tours. However, reaching this highly accessible place is not difficult at all. Unlike other high-altitude journeys, you will not even have to walk for long hours or on steep climbs. Nevertheless, there still are some challenges that the Tibet Overland Tour can bring for the tourists:

  • This 6-Day Tour to Tibet is perfect for adventure enthusiasts who love exploring remote, high-altitude destinations.
  • If you have an interest in understanding the cultural and spiritual background of any specific country or place, this will be the perfect tour to learn about the Buddhist religion.
  • For anyone who loves capturing memories while exploring nature, the Tibet Overland Tour stands as a perfect choice.
  • If you are healthy and do not have any serious illnesses, you can go for the Tibet overland tour with Global Adventure Trekking. However, if you are suffering from a serious illness, please do not go for it.
  • This will also be a perfect travel destination for anyone looking to go on a family vacation.

Food and Accommodation Facilities in the Tibet Overland Tour

At Global Adventure Trekking, we make sure that travelers get the best food and accommodation facilities throughout the Tibet Overland Tour. We believe that fulfilling food and cozy accommodation make high-altitude visits more convenient. Therefore, our team makes sure to arrange high-quality hotels, guesthouses, or tea houses that offer both amazing services and hygienic food. All that you have to do is focus on having fun, collecting memories, and exploring Tibet and Lhasa. Your food, stay, and all the other requirements will be fulfilled by the Global Adventure Trekking.

As this is a budget tour to Tibet, the hotels and guesthouses might not be the ones with the highest level of facilities or food. However, we will certainly ensure hygienic, healthy, and fulfilling meals throughout the tour along with a comfortable stay. Also, did you know that Tibet is famous for some of their local foods like laphing, dumplings, and noodles? We recommend all travelers try all of that as they reach Tibet.

What to pack for the 6-Day Budget Tour to Tibet?

As Tibet stays at a higher altitude of above 4000 meters, travelers must be very careful and smart while packing for this trip. Remember that smart packing makes every tour convenient and comparatively easy. Therefore, before you go for the Tibet Overland Tour, we request you to pack all the things listed below:

Clothing and Footwear

  • Fast-drying t-shirts and thermal wear as base layers.
  • Fleece or down jacket for insulating layers.
  • Windproof and waterproof jacket for outer layers.
  • Comfortable trekking pants.
  • Warm hats, gloves, scarves, sunglasses, caps, and sunscreen to protect from cold and sunburn.
  • Sports shoes and lightweight sandals for exploring the city and for internal usage in the hotel.
  • Socks, of course.

Travel Essentials and Accessories

  • Day pack backpack (20-30 L) for carrying daily essentials.
  • Duffel or large bag for main luggage.
  • Sleeping bag (0 degrees Celsius to 10 degrees Celsius recommended), especially for sleeping in cold temperatures.
  • Reusable water bottle or thermos.
  • Energy bars, electrolyte powders, or hydration tablets.
  • Smartphones, cameras, and power banks so that you miss no memories to collect at all.
  • Travel towels and wet wipes along with dry bags and zip locks.

Travel Documents and Money

  • Valid passport
  • Chinese Visa and Tibet Travel permits (we will manage that)
  • Photocopies of travel documents
  • Cash in Chinese Yuan
  • Credit and Debit cards

Some Tips for Perfect Packing

  • Make sure that you pack light but Smart. This means that you shall only bring what's necessary.
  • Use packing cubes as they help keep things organized.
  • Test your gear so that there will be no difficulties during the tour.
  • Make sure to be updated about the weather conditions before booking the package and going for the tour.

How to Book the Budget Tibet Tour with Global Adventure Trekking?

So, are you ready for one of the most adventurous and exciting journeys filled with Buddhist insights? If so, the Global Adventure Trekking team is ready to serve you with the 6-Day Package for the Tibet Overland Tour. With GAT, you will be assured of a safe, secure, adventurous, and insightful tour. Moreover, we have also curated a user-friendly website. This makes it easy for the travelers to go through the entire tour detail and book the package.

Just scroll to the top of this package, check the pricing details, and then click on the BOOK THIS TRIP button. However, before you book the package, we recommend you go through our Terms and Conditions. Well, if you have any questions or queries regarding the package or our services, you can also directly contact us via WhatsApp, Viber, or email us at info@globaladventuretrekking.com. Remember that Global Adventure Trekking is always ready to guide any explorer into their favorite adventure in Nepal, Tibet, or even Bhutan.

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