Tibet Overland Tour

We start early (around 4-5 AM) to reach the Nepal-Tibet border at Gyirong before 3:00 PM (Nepal time). The 6-7 hour journey takes us through stunning landscapes, offering views of snow-capped peaks. The road becomes rougher after entering Langtang National Park.

After a lunch stop at a roadside restaurant, we continue to Gyirong Port for border formalities. On the Tibetan side, our Tibetan guide will meet us, and we drive about an hour (25km) to Gyirong town. There, we explore the valley, visit villages, and enjoy mountain views before resting at the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

After an early breakfast, we leave the lush Gyirong Valley and begin our long journey to Shigatse. As we ascend, the landscape gradually shifts from green forests and waterfalls to the vast, arid Tibetan Plateau.

We first cross the Kong Tang Lamu Pass (5,236m), then descend to the stunning Peikucuo Lake (4,591m), a turquoise gem surrounded by mountains. Continuing, we enjoy distant views of the Langtang and Shishapangma ranges, passing grazing yaks and the high-altitude Tingri Airport.

Driving across the open plains of Tingri, we reach a junction where the road to Everest Base Camp meets the G318 Highway. With a distant view of Mt. Everest, we continue, crossing another 5,100m mountain pass before passing the road leading to Kailash Mansarovar.
By evening, we arrive in Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, where we check into our hotel and enjoy dinner.

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, we visit Tashi Lhunpo Monastery (3,847m), founded in 1447 by the first Dalai Lama and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lamas.
Leaving Shigatse, we drive 2 hours (93km) to Gyantse, once Tibet’s third largest town. Here, we explore Palcho Monastery and its impressive Kumbum Stupa, the largest chorten in Tibet, before continuing toward Lhasa.

Following the S307 Highway (266km, 6-7 hours), we pass the stunning Karola Glacier (5,039m) and the sacred Yamdrok Lake (4,441m), one of Tibet’s three largest lakes. By evening, we arrive in Lhasa, Tibet’s capital, and check into our hotel for the night.

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, we spend the day exploring Lhasa’s monasteries and gaining insight into Tibetan Buddhism and monastic life.

We begin with a guided tour of Drepung Monastery, Tibet’s largest monastery, once home to over 10,000 monks. Walking through Coqen Hall, our guide will explain Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and its historical figures.

Next, we visit Loseling College (or equivalent) to see the monks’ study environment and dormitories, offering a glimpse into their daily lives. In the afternoon, we head to Sera Monastery, one of Tibet’s great Gelug monasteries, to witness the famous Tibetan Monks Debate (3-5 PM, Monday to Saturday), where monks engage in lively discussions to deepen their knowledge. After the tour, we return to the hotel for the night.

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, we visit Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former residence of the Dalai Lamas. Explore its rich history, sacred relics, and gilded stupas of past Dalai Lamas. From the palace, enjoy a panoramic view of Lhasa’s Old Town, then visit Longwangtan Park at its base.

In the afternoon, we explore Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet, home to the revered 12 year old Sakyamuni Buddha statue. Surrounding the temple is Barkhor Street, where we can join pilgrims in the sacred Kora and browse the bustling market. To end the day, we visit a traditional Tibetan tea house, experiencing local culture over a cup of authentic Tibetan tea. Return to the hotel for the night.

Meals: Breakfast
 

After breakfast, we leave Lhasa and drive back to Tingri via the G318 Highway. The journey covers 505km and takes 9-10 hours, with stops for lunch and rest breaks along the way.

As we approach Tingri, we are welcomed by breathtaking views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Upon arrival, we check into the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast in Tingri, we may take a 4 hour round trip (70km) to Rongbuk Monastery (Everest Base Camp) for a stunning view of Mt. Everest’s northern face, depending on time.

We then drive 333km (about 8 hours) to Gyirong, where we check into the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, we begin the journey to Kathmandu. First, we drive to the Gyirong border, complete immigration formalities, then cross into Nepal and continue to Kathmandu.

In the evening, a representative will meet you for a farewell dinner and gather feedback, marking the end of your trip with Desire Adventures.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner