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17 Days Shanghai Tibet and Nepal Tour

Tour Route: Shanghai - By flight - Lhasa - Namtso - Lhasa - By flight - Kathmandu - Chitwan - Lumbini - Pokhara – Kathmandu

Trip Overview:

A major exploration of the best of China and Nepal, this 17-day journey takes you from east to west, from multicultural to exotic, in one fell swoop. The ancient coastal city of trade and commerce awaits your arrival, before sending you off to hit the heights of Lhasa, and travel overland across the vast plateau to Nepal. Experience the Bund in Shanghai at night, and the iconic Potala Palace, home to the Dalai Lama in Tibet. Then travel across the vastness of the plateau via the lake in the heavens to the border with Nepal, and take a car down to the exotic city of Kathmandu, capital of the Newar people. Next, explore the wildness and sacred part of Nepal respectively at Chitwan and Lumbini to fulfill your perfect journey.

  • Tour Code: TTO-TT-STT18

  • Trip Level:

  • Tour Type: Private tour with private guide and vehicle

  • Time to Visit:

Highlights:

  • Travel through the largest ancient sea trade port in Asia, and experience the ancient Yu Garden and the modern Shanghai city at night.
  • Spend the night stargazing at Tibet’s highest lake.
  • Explore the ancient 7th century city of the Tibetan Kings and the iconic sights of the world’s highest capital city.
  • Tour around the exotic Newar capital of Kathmandu.
  • Experience Safari activities Chitwan National Park and see many amazing creatures there.
  • Make a pilgrimage to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Shanghai

When international flight lands in Shanghai, please take a taxi by yourself to our reserved hotel. The rest of the day free for you to be on your own.

Stay overnight in Shanghai.

Day 2: Shanghai Day Tour: Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden and the Bund

In the morning, visit Shanghai Museum. It is a large museum exhibiting the ancient art while featuring bronze ware, chinaware, calligraphy and painting. Then, travel to the Yu Garden, which is a famous classic garden of south region. The beautiful scenery and quiet atmosphere here make it a peaceful place in bustling Shanghai.

In the afternoon, we will transfer you to the Bund area for a short cruise on the Huangpu River. Standing on the cruise ship, you will see many western-style buildings from Shanghai's colonial days in Puxi area. While on Pudong side, rows of skyscrapers will come into view. The utterly different buildings are the best records of the development of the city. You will explore the Bund area and then visit an old street in Shanghai.

Stay overnight in Shanghai.

Day 3: Shanghai Day Tour: Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, Nanjing Road

Today, we will drive 1 hour from downtown Shanghai to the picturesque Zhujiajiao Ancient Town. It is also known as the "Venice of China". You can enjoy a boat trip from one end of the water way to the other. And there are a lot of shops and vendors selling kinds of handicrafts.

 

After that, you will go to visit the renowned pedestrian precinct Nanjing Road to take a nice stroll. It is a bustling street that allows you to shop to your heart’s content, from the small boutiques selling handicrafts and other souvenirs to high-end fashion products. You can also enjoy some local food and snacks.  

 

Stay overnight in Shanghai.

Day 4: Fly from Shanghai to Lhasa

Today, you will board the flight from Shanghai to Lhasa. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our local guide at the airport and be presented with traditional Tibetan White Scarf to wish you good luck!

Your tour guide will transfer you to the reserved hotel in downtown Lhasa. You will enjoy the spectacular scenery and the typical Tibetan villages on the way.

Stay at the hotel after arrival for adapting to the high attitude. It is helpful to take things easy for the first few days, and try to drink some water just and now.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Day 5: Lhasa Day Tour to Visit Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street

The tour will begin from UNESCO World Heritage site - Potala Palace, which is also the winter palace of Dalai Lama. It's situated at 12,139 feet above sea level. It's a 13-story high building that contains over 1,000 rooms, various statues, stupas, murals and artifacts. Then continue to Jokhang Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a spiritual center for Buddhists in Tibet. Next to the temple there is Barkhor Street, filled with pilgrims and street vendors, selling traditional Tibetan items such as prayer wheels and jewelry.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Day 6: Lhasa Day Tour to Visit Two Important Monasteries in Lhasa, Sera & Drepung

In the morning, tourists are going to visit Drepung Monastery which was one of the “three greet” Gelug monasteries of Tibet and was founded in 1416. Ganden palace is used as Dalai Lama’s palace in the Drepung before moving to the Potala palace. In the afternoon, Sera Monastery---It was one of the “three great” Gelug monasteries of Tibet and was founded in 1419. The highlight is the Monks debate at around 3 - 5 in the afternoon.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Day 7: Lhasa to Namtso Lake 220 km (4200m)

In the early morning we will begin our long journey from Lhasa to Namtso. You will see enjoy the Nyenchen Tanggula Mountain Range and see Nomads in flourishing grassland (in Summer); Besides, on the way you can appreciate the view of Sky-Road Railway with snow mountain background. As we reach the famous Lagenla Mountain Pass (5190m), you can enjoy the awe-inspiring vista of Namtso Lake from above. After we arrived at the lake shore, you will enjoy the leisure trek around Tashi Island and enjoy sunset there. At night, you may enjoy night view of the milky way beside the Lake shore.

Stay overnight at Tent Guesthouse of Namtso.

Day 8: Namtso to Lhasa via Yampachen 230km

Enjoy the clear morning at the lake shore, you can trek along the lake shore to Tashi Dor Island to explore the meditation caves. Drive to Dumxung to have lunch.

In the afternoon, you may enjoy Yangpachen hot spring (Optional) and have both indoor and outdoor swimming pool filled with hot springs water. Finally, head back to Lhasa.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Day 9: Fly from Lhasa to Kathmandu

Today, you will board the flight from Lhasa to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the local guide and then escorted to the hotel in Kathmandu.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 10: Kathmandu Day Tour - Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath Stupa

Pashupatinath the most important Hindu temple in Nepal, the old buildings on the site were destroyed by Moslem invaders in the 14th century, its stone linga smashed to dust, but it rose again behind their retreating backs. Succeeding monarchs reinstated the temple and the images.

Bouddhanath is among the largest stupas in South Asia, and it has become the focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. The white mound looms thirty-six meters overhead. The stupa is located on the ancient trade route to Tibet, and Tibetan merchants rested and offered prayers here for many centuries. Swayambhunath the golden spire of the 5th-century Swayambhu stupa is adorned with a colorful fluttering of prayer flags; it crowns a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley and offers fantastic views over the city of Kathmandu.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 11: Kathmandu to Chitwan

We get up early in the morning to catch tourist coach to Chitwan. If you take flight, it only takes 35 minutes. While the driving takes 6 hours. As soon as you arrive in Chitwan the trip briefing will be given with welcome drink. You will be doing Elephant safari, Jungle walk and at evening Tharu cultural show in Chitwan.

Stay overnight in Chitwan

Day 12: Chitwan National Park Exploration

Early morning you visit the Jungle to refresh your spirit of adventure on a guided walk through the national park, returning to the lodge in time for breakfast.

You will follow a full day true jungle experience with the in-house expert naturalists including Bird watching, Elephant bathing and canoeing. You will also visit the small village of Tharu ethnic group to get a sense of what their world and lives are like through interactions with the locals. A special sundowner can be suggested at the confluence of the Rapti River amidst spectacular sunset view.

Stay overnight in Chitwan.

Day 13: Chitwan to Lumbini and Go Sightseeing

After breakfast, we travel overland from Chitwan to the Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, where has been revered as the place of holy pilgrimage. Lumbini has been included as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO - if the time permits, we take you to visit Manakamana Temple, believed as the wish fulfilling goddess by cable car.

Upon arrival Lumbini, we transfer you to the hotel, check-in and then we go walking through the Sacred Lumbini Garden where the Buddha was born converges on the Ashoka pillar, visit the Maya Devi Temple with its bas-relief sculpture depicting Maya Devi holding on with her right hand to a branch of pipal tree and giving birth to the infant Buddha who stand up on a lotus pedestal.

Stay overnight in Lumbini

Day 14: Tilaurakot Sightseeing; Drive to Pokhara

Today, we will drive to Tilaurkot, the ancient palace of King Suddodha (Siddhartha Gautam's father), where the Buddha spent his formative years as a Shakya Prince. Allow yourself for a moment to wander around and soak the atmosphere. There's a museum nearby, The Kapilvastu Museum; the pottery, jewelry and ornaments are gathered in-house.

End up the remarkable tour in Tilaurkot by visiting the shrines, monasteries and stupa near the sacred garden.

Then, from Tilaurakot we drive to Pokhara through Butwal, Palpa and Syangja.

Stay overnight in Pokhara.

Day 15: Pokhara Day Tour

Early morning excursion to Sarangkot to view the spectacular scene of the sun rising out of the mountain peaks. At an elevation of just under 1,600 metres, Sarangkot is perched on a high ridge to the northwest of Pokhara and has panoramic mountain views from Dhaulagiri and across the Annapurnas to Manalsu, as well as south over the Pokhara Valley. Sunrise will be subject to weather.

In the morning we do the Sightseeing tour in Pokhara City. The World Peace Pagoda can be seen on top of a hill on the southern fringe of Phewa Lake. It has four images of the Buddha facing the four directions. The dome-shaped pagoda is an impressive sight, and its hilltop location commands a great view. It is a great vantage point which offers spectacular views of the Annapurna.

In the afternoon, we do the boating at Phewa Lake. The centre of attraction in Pokhara is the Phewa Lake - the second largest lake in the Kingdom. It is the largest and most enchanting of the three lakes that add to the resplendence of Pokhara. Here, one can sail or row a hired boat across to the water or visit the island temple in the middle. The favourite home base for travelers is the eastern shore You can do some outdoor activities like paragliding, helicopter in Polhara, cost is not included in the package.

Stay overnight in Pokhara.

Day 16: Pokhara to Kathmandu

Drive back to Kathmandu from Pokhara.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 17: Departure from Kathmandu

After breakfast, the rest of day is at leisure until we pick you up at the hotel and then transfer to airport for your next stop.

What’s included?

1.Tibet Entry Permit

2. Comfortable, clean and safe vehicle depending on your group size with reliable local driver;

3. Admission fees of tourist sites listed in the itinerary;

4. Professional English speaking tour guide;

5. Accommodations depend on your preference. Please tell us your preferred accommodation class when submitting the enquiry, and we will arrange the best-value hotels for you.

6.All measl listed in the itinerary;

7.Tourist Accident/Casualty Insurance

What’s not included?

1. International flight to and out of China;

2. Chinese Visa

3. Domestic flight / train not listed in the itinerary (If you need ticket booking service, please leave your requirements in the Online Inruiry form.)

4.Meals not specified in the itinerary;

5.Tips to driver and tour guide, Tip as you wish

6.Personal expenses, such as laundry, phone call, optional tour activities and so on.

Trip Notes

  • 1. How to Get the Tibet Travel Permit?

    The Tibet Travel Permit is essential for any Tibet tour. We help to obtain this permit free of charge when you book your Tibet tour through us. Simply send us copies of your passport and China visa at least 20 days in advance. Once we receive your documents, we will promptly process the permit application with the Tibet Tourism Bureau. After obtaining your permit, we will notify you and send it to your hotel in mainland China.

    In exceptional cases, our staff can personally deliver the permit to you at the airport or railway station. With years of experience in handling Tibet Travel Permit, we assure you a smooth visit to Tibet by ensuring the acquisition of your permit.

  • 2. Where to Stay in Tibet?

    Accommodation facilities and services in Tibet might not match those found in the coastal and central parts of China. However, there's a diverse range of hotel options available. However, you can choose from a wide range of hotel options. In big cities like Lhasa and Shigatse, from cheap and clean youth hostels to distinct Tibetan-style 3-star and international 5-star luxury hotels, you will find one that suits your interests and budget.

    As you travel to remote areas of Tibet, such as EBC and the Mount Kailash region, the accommodations tend to be more basic. Some may have air-conditioning in the hotel, while others may only offer electric blankets in the guesthouses. Nonetheless, we always handpick cozy and safe accommodations for you along your itinerary in Tibet, ensuring a pleasant night's stay for your Tibet tour.

  • 3. How about the Guiding and Tipping in Tibet?

    Our English-speaking guides are natives of Tibet with good knowledge of Tibetan culture, history, and Buddhism. Most are trained to offer Western-standard service. Throughout your stay in Tibet, we will monitor your health and provide prompt assistance to you. If you encounter any trouble, please do not hesitate to contact them or our customer service manager.

    Travelers' tipping to Tibetan guides and drivers is seen as extra gratitude for their excellent service, much like what you do in the West. Normally, a tipping amount of 7 USD per day is acceptable. The basic principle is rewarding good service with fair pay.

  • 4. How are the Toilets in Tibet?

    Undoubtedly, for many Western tourists, using toilets in Tibet can be a challenging experience. Therefore, it's advisable to moderate your expectations. If you travel to Lhasa by Tibet train, both western-style and squat toilets are available onboard. Staying in hotels rated above 3 stars in cities like Lhasa and Shigatse ensures access to standard Western flush toilets, eliminating any discomfort.

    However, when visiting attractions like Yamdrok or Namtso or outdoor sites like EBC, you're likely to encounter smelly and unclean pit toilets. It's recommended to carry sufficient toilet paper for such occasions.

  • 5. How is the Weather in Tibet? What to Pack for Visiting Tibet?

    One of the notable weather features on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is the significant temperature fluctuation between day and night. In Lhasa, the annual temperatures range from -2℃ to 12℃ (spring), 9℃ to 22℃ (summer), 7℃ to 19℃ (fall), and -7℃ to 9℃ (winter). Ensure proper clothing, such as thermal tops, a fleece jacket, breathable underwear, a down jacket, jeans, a beanie, and other essentials.

    Moreover, essentials like sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses are crucial to shield yourself from the intense, blinding sunlight of the plateau. Staying hydrated by drinking more water and including vegetables in your diet is advisable to prevent dehydration during your travels in Tibet.

  • 6. How to Prevent from Altitude Sickness in Tibet?

    For first-time visitors to Tibet, whether arriving by flight or train, allowing ample rest is crucial for quick acclimation to the high altitude in Lhasa. Avoid rushing to explore the streets or attractions independently. Walk at a slower pace and refrain from exerting yourself by running or jumping. Spending at least two days in Lhasa before venturing to places like Shigatse or Namtso allows for better acclimatization. If you experience any discomfort, inform your guide, and they will assist you.

  • 7. Are There some Dos and Don'ts while Touring Tibet?

    Photography is generally prohibited in monasteries. If you wish to capture images of Tibetan pilgrims, kindly seek their permission or maintain a considerable distance while taking photos. Swimming and fishing are prohibited in the sacred lakes of Tibet. Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics. According to policy, international tourists are not permitted to travel alone in Tibet.

    While navigating Barkhor Street, adhere to the custom of walking clockwise. Refrain from exploring unfamiliar trails. Take proactive steps to preserve Tibet's delicate ecosystem.

    Given that Tibetan Buddhism profoundly influences the lives of Tibetans, always show reverence and respect for their unique customs. If uncertain about any practice, it's advisable to seek guidance from your tour guide before proceeding.

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  • Explore Mount Kailash

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    Discover the real Tibet with us! We're dedicated to showing its true spirit and exploring its lively culture. Our aim is to give you an authentic experience, sharing the beauty and richness of Tibetan traditions. Come along for a journey deep into the heart of Tibet!

  • Leisurely explore Lake Yamdrok

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What Our Customers Say

  • Excellent guide, excellent experience

    Tenwang was an amazing guide: funny, caring, always ready to answer questions, and really went beyond to solve all the problems we had. I couldn't have asked for a better guide. The trip was fantastic, although a lot of driving, the views were worthwhile and it was a once in a lifetime trip...More reviews

    Nov 2024 Dave M
  • Ask for Kel Dor!

    Brilliant trip - fascinating and beautiful. Great hotels and people. Kel Dor is an exceptional guide- patient, experienced, knowledgeable and a brilliant photographer. Many of the website images are his. We were very luck with the weather but in any circumstance you take this tour, you’ll not be disappointed...More reviews

    Nov 2024 emmaterriere
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    We enjoyed a wonderful time on our 8-Day Kathmandu to Lhasa via EBC tour, thanks to Tibet Vista and our guide Lhakpa Choedak. They offered a great balance between the pre-organized itinerary and yet allowed us enough freetime to explore Tibet by ourselves. During the whole tour we stayed in nice hotels, had good food, a safe driver and a very patient...More reviews

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    We enjoy so much for our 10D Tibet EBC Small Group Tour with Tibet Vista. Our tour guide, Kunchok and driver, Nombu have been taking care of us very well during the trip. Kunchok is very friendly, and always sharing us a lot of historical knowledge in Tibetan Buddhism religious, including The Great Buddhas, contributions of the Great Dalai Lamas, Panchen Lamas...More reviews

    Oct 2024 Steven Y
  • Best guide ever!

    The tour was fantastic, great mixture of sightseeing and outdoor experience. Nice group size of 12. Our guide Jik me was outstanding, we learned so much about the Tibetan culture, especially the religion. He was always very responsive and in a good mood. He made us feel comfortable in every situation...More reviews

    Oct 2024 Steff6639
  • 7 days in Tibet - to the Top of the World

    A trip of a lifetime! One to remember forever. A dream came true on our private tour from Xining via Lhasa to EBC Everest Base Camp. Everything had been perfectly organized, even a full week of sunshine, but what made this trip special, very very special, was our lovely guide Mrs. Choe Zom. She is a great ambassador for Tibetan hospitality, a people person, a charming guide with in depth knowledge...More reviews

    Oct 2024 Johannes F
  • Unforgettable Tibet experience

    When I decided that this was the right year for Tibet, I started doing some research and the obvious name that came up was Tibet Vista.I reached out and in a very short time I got a reply from Kristin.I had multiple email exchanges with her to organise all aspects of my trip and she always gave me timely and precise responses leaving me with the idea that I would get the kind of support and assistance I required even during the trip...More reviews

    Oct 2024 ECJUNE
  • A tour to remember

    I am super happy that I had the opportunity to go on this tour. For the first time in my life I got to see Mt Everest and explore Tibet, the views are just breath taking and beautiful. The team at Tibet Vista have done an amazing job organising our schedule with lots of activities where we get to learn about Tibetan culture and it’s history...More reviews

    Sep 2024 William F
  • Beautiful experience! Friendly service!

    It was very beautiful experience to visit Tibet and EBC. Since the first day we had really good service and our tour guide Kunchok always took care of us. Amazing location and interesting stories everyday all of us were to visit this places. Thanks again...More reviews

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