The Lhasa to Kathmandu overland trip is the top choice among all overland tours in Tibet, and is also the best way to travel from Tibet to Nepal. Covering a distance of about 1300 kilometers, it follows a world-class route across the Himalayas, and boasts breathtaking highland scenery and deep Tibetan cultural experiences.

With well-paved roads along most of the route, the overland trip is also suitable for all kinds of tourists. For the best experience, we recommend the classic 7-day itinerary, which can ensure you don’t miss iconic highlights such as Mount Everest and Yamdrok Lake.

Read on this easy-to-follow guide for more insider tips of Lhasa to Kathmandu overland, including best travel time, highlights en route, road conditions, required travel documents, and more. Get prepared for a safe, comfortable and smooth adventure!

Why Choose to Travel Overland from Lhasa to Kathmandu?

Unlike flying, traveling overland from Lhasa to Kathmandu is not just a means of getting from point A to point B. It is a world-class road journey across the Himalayas, and offers spectacular landscapes, amazing cultural heritage and immersive local experiences.

The route from Lhasa to Nepal follows the famous Sino-Nepal Friendship Highway, which is the western part of the Chinese National Highway 318. It takes you through snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, glaciers, and other landscapes on the plateau. You will also acquaint yourself with the most important religious and cultural sites in Tibet and get to know friendly Tibetans.

The overland route from Lhasa to Kathmandu is one of the most popular ways for travelers to visit Tibet and Nepal. Without retracing your steps, you can visit all must-visit destinations of Tibet in one go, including Lhasa, Shigatse, Mount Everest, etc. Compared to flying, the road trip is more rewarding and inspiring.

The Lhasa to Kathmandu overland trip is a thrilling world-class journey across the Himalayas.

When is the Best Time to Travel Overland from Lhasa to Kathmandu?

The best times to take the overland tour from Lhasa to Kathmandu are from April to June and from September to November. You will have clear skies, minimal rainfall, and moderate temperatures during these "golden travel seasons."

Summer (July to August) is the rainy season in Tibet. The rain usually comes in the late afternoon or at night, so if you like warm weather and don’t mind a little rain, summer can still be a good time. However, be cautious when driving near Gyirong border, where landslides often occur due to heavier rain.

Visiting Tibet in winter also has its merits since there is nothing more beautiful than the sight of mountains covered in snow and frozen lakes. However, touring western Tibet near the border could be challenging since snows block the roads and mountain passes sometimes.

What is the Most Recommended Itinerary? The Classic 7-day Route via EBC

The seven-day Lhasa to Kathmandu overland tour is the most popular choice to experience the route. It is enough to introduce the real Tibet and its unique culture and landscape. Covering a distance of about 1300 km, the tour is also well-paced, allowing for a comfortable journey with gradual acclimatization.

Day 1 to Day 3: Acclimatization and Sightseeing in Lhasa

First, you will spend three days in Lhasa (3650 meters) acclimatizing to the high altitude while exploring the city. You will not miss the revered Jokhang Temple, the grand Potala Palace, and important Sera and Drepung monasteries. You will also have a chance to do kora along Barkhor Street, and taste Tibetan tea in a local tea house.

Day 4: Lhasa to Shigatse via Gyantse

Then, you will follow the scenic road to Shigatse from Lhasa. First travel southwards to Yamdrok Lake, one of the most prominent lakes in Tibet, and then continue westwards to Gyantse and Shigatse. Along the way, you will also pass by the Karola Glacier and Similar Mountain Pass.

Day 5: Shigatse to Everest Base Camp

After leaving Shigatse, you will drive around 350 kilometers to Everest Base Camp. Passing Gyatsola Pass, Gawula Pass and then finally the camp, the road is winding yet manageable. You will see clear views of the peak of Mount Everest up close, and if weather permits, appreciate the splendid sunset or sunrise.

Day 6 to Day 7: Everest Base Camp to Gyirong Border and Then Kathmandu

The final two days are for you to exit from Tibet. You will first get to Gyirong border, after exploring the Rongbuk Monastery at the base camp. Spend one night at Gyirong town before you cross the border into Kathmandu.

Explore exotic Tibet on this overland journey across the Roof of the World.

What are the Highlights along the Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Route?

The overland trip from Lhasa to Kathmandu goes through central Tibet, and boasts some of the world’s most spectacular natural scenery, as well as brilliant religious and cultural heritage.

In Lhasa, you will visit the grand Potala Palace which resembles a fortress dominating the city skyline while safeguarding stupas of former Dalai Lamas. Jokhang Temple, the most sacred Tibetan temple, is the main pilgrimage site in Tibet. Barkhor Street is the perfect place to learn a lot about authentic Tibetan culture and local life.

After leaving Lhasa, you will travel through picturesque Tibetan towns and villages, and across vast prairies and mountain passes. You will appreciate the breathtaking Yamdrok Lake, one of the three most famous holy lakes in Tibet, and admire the imposing Karola Glacier, the most accessible glacier in Tibet.

As the adventure continues to Gyantse, you will have a chance to witness the ancient fortress. Then on the way to EBC, you won’t miss the awe-inspiring Gawula Pass, the place to see five of the world’s highest peaks in a line. Of course, the up-close view of Mount Everest at EBC is even more mind-blowing, making it the most exciting moment of the trip.

As you leave for Gyirong Border and head to Nepal, you will pass through the lush valleys of Gyirong, where dense forests replace the dry and arid landscapes of Tibet. You will also encounter snow-capped Shishapangma Peak and the serene Lake Lake Paiku Tso en route.

How is the Road Condition of the Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Route?

The road from Lhasa to Kathmandu is in good condition, in general. In Tibetan part, the asphalt road stretches from Lhasa all the way to Gyirong Port, allowing you to drive comfortably with regular vehicles. Even the road for the side trip to Everest Base Camp is well-paved.

When you enter Nepal via the Gyirong Port, you will find the road conditions aren't as good as in Tibet. Being dusty and bumpy, the mountain road tends to be more challenging when haven rainfall or snowfall occurs. But when traveling with us, we will provide seasoned drivers to ensure you a smooth journey.

What Documents are Needed for a Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Trip?

You need to obtain Chinese Visa and Tibet Travel Permit before entering Tibet. The Chinese Visa is obtained by yourself, while if you are from a visa-free country to China, then you don’t need to obtain it.

The Tibet Travel Permit can be smoothly obtained through us. Just mail the copies of your Chinese Visa and passport, and we will take care of the rest. It is recommended to contact us at least 12 days in advance for the permit application.

As you will visit Everest region and the border areas when overland from Lhasa to Kathmandu, you will also need the Aliens’ Travel Permit. Don’t worry - this can also be handled through us, after you arrive in Lhasa.

We take care of all details including Tibet travel documents for your Lhasa to Kathmandu overland tour!

More Tips for a Smooth Overland Journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu

1. Pay attention to altitude sickness when taking this overland trip, since you will traverse some high mountain passes of over 5000 meters along the way. It is suggested to spend some time in lower Lhasa (3650m) for acclimatization before you venture to the western areas.

2. Pack warm clothing and dress in layers, even when you take the trip in summer. Since Tibet is located on high plateau, it has relatively cool weather in summer, with chilly nights. In higher regions of Tibet, such as Everest Base Camp (5000 m), you can feel the night temperature much colder, often just above freezing.

3. Stay flexible and maintain a positive mindset. Tibet has a changeable weather, so sometimes you may happen to encounter non-ideal weather and could not see the best clear landscape. Appreciate the different side of the views and contact you agency to adjust the itinerary if needed.

Conclusion

The overland journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu is a thrilling world-class road trip that allows you to explore the breathtaking Himalayan landscape and the rich cultural heritage of Tibet. Following the 7-day route via Everest Base Camp is the best choice to make the most of this adventure. And the best time for the trip is from April to June and from September to November.

As a leading Tibet tour operator with years of experiences, we’ve helped thousands of tourists realize their dream overland trip from Lhasa to Kathmandu. For any questions or travel plans, feel free to contact us or book your tour with us today! We are here to help you to enjoy a worry-free journey in Tibet!