When planning a tour across Tibet and Nepal, you'll find a wide variety of options available, varying in length, itinerary, and cost. To help you make the best choice, we recommend the three most popular Tibet-Nepal tours, suitable for most tourists and offering a wealth of experiences. Read on to get inspired for your next journey to Tibet and Nepal.

7 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Tour: World-Class Road Trip with Mt. Everest Views

This seven-day overland expedition from Lhasa to Kathmandu may be short, but it's packed with adventure. You'll explore the best of Tibet, including the majestic Mount Everest. This tour showcases Tibet's rich traditions and stunning landscapes before taking you down from the majestic Himalayas to the vibrant sights and sounds of Kathmandu.

Starting in Lhasa, the tour first takes you to the city's most spectacular sights, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. You'll also visit Drepung Monastery, the largest temple in Tibet, and the fascinating monk-debating site at Sera Monastery. Additionally, you'll explore the daily life of local Tibetans on bustling Barkhor Street.

After enjoying the delights of Lhasa, you'll hit the road to western Tibet. Your first stop is the serene Lake Yamdrok, nestled among the lofty mountains. You'll pass close to the Karola Glacier and capture memorable photos of the ancient city of Gyantse before reaching Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest city.

The tour then takes you to its highlight: Everest Base Camp. At Gawula Pass, you'll marvel at distant views of the world’s five highest peaks. The most exhilarating moment comes at Everest Base Camp, where you'll encounter the majestic Mount Everest up close. From EBC, your journey continues across the border at Gyirong Port before concluding in Kathmandu.

This 7-day overland tour from Lhasa to Kathmandu is perfect for travelers of all ages, and you can enjoy it year-round thanks to well-paved and safe roads. The gradual ascent from Lhasa (3650m) to Everest Base Camp (5000m) gives plenty of time for acclimatization, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey for everyone.

8 Days Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour: Top Choice to Cross the Himalayas from Nepal

If you're traveling from Nepal to Tibet, consider this 8-day Kathmandu to Lhasa tour as your top choice. The route closely mirrors the return direction of the above-mentioned 7-day itinerary, with a few minor differences. It still highlights the best of Tibet, ensuring you'll enjoy both breathtaking natural landscapes and profound cultural experiences.

Starting in Kathmandu, the journey takes you through rugged yet breathtaking terrains to the Nepal-China border at Rasuwa Gadi. Along the way, you'll be captivated by the southern Himalayan foothills, adorned with towering snow-capped peaks and lush forests. Crossing into Tibet, your first stop is Gyirong, where you’ll acclimate to the altitude and explore the stunning Gyirong Valley, often hailed as one of the world's most beautiful.

The adventure continues as you travel from Gyirong to Everest Base Camp. Witness the grandeur of Mount Everest from multiple viewpoints and visit the historic Rongbuk Monastery, the world's highest monastery. This leg of the journey provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand in the shadow of the world's tallest peak and take in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

From Everest Base Camp, your journey continues to Shigatse, where you'll explore the magnificent Tashilhunpo Monastery, the residence of the Panchen Lama. Afterward, you'll head to Gyantse, where you can visit the impressive Pelkor Monastery and the unique Kumbum Stupa. Finally, you'll follow a scenic road to Lhasa, where you'll spend two days exploring its highlights before concluding this enjoyable journey.

13 Days Lhasa to Everest Kailash and Kathmandu Tour: Adding the Mt. Kailash Kora Experience

For those with more time and a desire to delve deeper into Tibet and Nepal, we recommend this 13-day tour. This itinerary combines the classic Lhasa to Kathmandu overland route with the spiritual Mount Kailash kora experience. You'll discover more untamed beauty of western Tibet and partake in a sacred pilgrimage of a lifetime.

Starting in Lhasa, you'll visit iconic sites such as the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, providing an insightful introduction to Tibetan culture. The journey then leads you through the picturesque landscapes of Yamdrok Lake as you head towards Shigatse and Everest Base Camp, where you'll marvel at the majestic views of Mount Everest.

From EBC, the tour takes you to Saga and then Darchen, where you'll take the three-day Mount Kailash kora trek, renowned for its potential for purification and enlightenment. During the trek, you'll hike to two monasteries and spend nights in their guesthouses. You'll cross Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the trail, and witness the sacred Lake of Compassion, believed to cleanse sins.

After completing the kora, the tour continues through the scenic Ngari Plateau and Gyirong Valley, eventually reaching Kathmandu. This part of the journey offers a peaceful conclusion, showcasing a contrast between high-altitude deserts and lush forests with vibrant valleys.

The 13-day Lhasa to Everest Kailash and Kathmandu Tour is ideal for physically fit tourists with experience in high-altitude trekking. However, as long as you are in good health, you can consider taking on this challenge. Keep in mind that Mount Kailash is typically closed during winter, so plan your visit between April and October.

How to Enjoy a Smooth Tibet and Nepal Tour?

Regardless of which route you ultimately choose for your Tibet and Nepal tour, here are some important tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Check them out below:

(1) Prepare the Required Travel Documents in Advance:
Make sure you have all necessary travel documents well ahead of your trip. This includes your Chinese Visa and Tibet Travel Permit, which are mandatory for entering Tibet. We can assist you in obtaining the Tibet Travel Permit before your Tibet Nepal tour. Additionally, if you plan to visit Everest Base Camp and Mount Kailash, you will need additional permits, and we will also assist with these arrangements.

(2) Contact a Local Tour Operator with Experience:
Connecting with a trusted local tour operator can greatly enhance your travel experience. As the foremost Tibet Nepal tour operator, we have years of experience and offices in both Lhasa and Kathmandu. We can assist in organizing a secure and comfortable tour between Tibet and Nepal, providing guaranteed permits, seasoned local guides, and more.

(3) Pack Appropriately:
It's crucial to pack for diverse weather conditions and varying altitudes between Tibet and Nepal. Layered clothing is ideal for fluctuating temperatures, especially in the higher altitudes of the plateau. Essential items to include are warm clothing, sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and personal first aid supplies. Don’t forget altitude sickness medication, which can be essential while traveling in Tibet.

(4) Respect Local Customs:
Both Tibet and Nepal have a strong religious atmosphere, making it crucial to understand and respect local customs. Be mindful of cultural sensitivities, such as asking for permission before photographing people or religious sites. Follow your guide’s instructions and show respect for local traditions and practices to ensure a harmonious and respectful experience.

Conclusion

Taking a tour through Tibet to Nepal means doubling your excitement, adventure, and cultural immersion. Select one of the three tours mentioned above to begin your journey into the heart of the Himalayas. Or, if you have more travel ideas, feel free to contact us. We can customize your Tibet Nepal tour according to your preferences.