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15 Days Tibet and Nepal Culture Tour

Tour Route: Lhasa -Tsedang- Gyantse -Shigatse- Sakya -Gyirong Port-Kathmandu- Nagarkot -Pokhara

Trip Overview:

This is a legendary culture discovery journey to Tibet and Nepal, two distinct destinations holding different regions and customs. You will take the chance to visit the central culture areas in Tsedang, Gyantse and Shigatse, following the wonderful Tibetan monasteries discovery in Lhasa. On the way to Kathmandu by overland, you will further get to see the magnificent Mount Everest and the highest monastery in the world. While in Nepal, you will enjoy the landmark architectures and temples in Kathmandu, and get inspired by the picturesque view in lake city Pokhara.

  • Tour Code: TTO-GT-LK15

  • Trip Level:

  • Tour Type: Private tour with private guide and vehicle

  • Time to Visit:

Highlights:

  • Discover Lhasa city with all its best, including the Potala Palace, the Jokhang Temple and the Barkhor Street.
  • Marvel at the turquoise waters of Yamdrok-tso, one of Tibet’s most sacred lakes.
  • Visit Yambulakhang Palace, the first building of Tibet which is built in the 2nd century for Tibetan Kings.
  • Climb the dazzling Gyantse Kumbum, a monumental chorten with mural-filled chapels.
  • Sleep in nomad tents and gaze upon the north face of Mt. Everest.
  • Travel across Nepal to explore the Buddhist culture.
  • Enjoy the magnificent Himalayan at the best viewpoint in Nagarkot.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Lhasa, get the first impression of Tibetan daily life

Welcome to the roof of the world. Your Tibet journey starts with a warm Tibetan style greeting from your local tour guide who will present you with Hada (traditional Tibetan scarves). Then be escorted to your hotel in Lhasa city at the comfort of your own private vehicle.Along the way you may view Kyichu River and see Tibetan homes with their trapezoid shaped windows and fluttering prayer flags, and Tibetans walking on the roads wearing their distinctive national costumes.

Do have a comfort stop near Nietang Buddha where a giant statue of Buddha has been carved out of a stone cliff-face centuries ago. One of the first buildings you could see as you enter the city is the Potala Palace, sitting majestically on a hill dominating Lhasa. Stay at the hotel after arrival for adapting to the high attitude.

Day 2: Lhasa Highlights Escorted Tour

After breakfast, we go to the Potala Palace, a golden feather upon the roof of the world, which Tibetans proudly claim to be the prime miracle since the creation of this world. It is visible from any distance, with the golden roof shinning in the sun, spend one hour wondering around the inside of this magnificent building exploring the rooms previously used by the Dalai Lama and the many Buddhist icons within.

In the afternoon we go inside of the Jokhang. The Jokhang, like most of the larger temple structures have numerous individual temples within it dedicated to specific enlightened beings, protectors, high lamas, or saints. Images, both sculpted and painted, are everywhere. Every inch of wall and ceiling is brightly painted with images of clouds, beings, mandalas, or decorative patterns. Colorful silk banners, three stories high, hang in various places. Color, pattern, and images crowd in around you. The central image inside the building is a 30-foot high gilded image of Maitreya Buddha. Then stroll around the back alleys of the Barkhor area of Old Lhasa. The streets smelled of yak butter and incense while hordes of pilgrims shuffled along the main Kora (circumambulations) around Jokhang Temple. If someone just walked at a normal pace, one kora would take about 15-20 minutes.

Day 3: Lhasa Tour: Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery

In the morning you'll visit Drepung monastery, which used to be the largest monastery with more than 10 thousand monks, Buddhist debates often occur there. Seen from afar, its grand, white construction gives the monastery the appearance of a heap of rice. In Tibetan language, means Monastery of Collecting-Rice. Learn about the lives of Tibetan monks there.

In the afternoon, visit Sera monastery, which was created in 1419 and has always been an important Buddhist seminary. As rose are planted everywhere in the monastery, it is also called “the court of wild rose”. Today still 200 lamas live in there. Catch the famous debate session of the monks before returning to Lhasa.

Day 4: Lhasa to Tsedang (3500m)

Drive about 4 hours to Tsedang in the morning, which is known as the capital of the ancient Yarlung Kingdom. Take a ferry to cross Yarlung Zangpo River and visit Samye Monastery en route.

The Samye Monastery is the first temple to be built in Tibet and the first contains three Buddhist jewels of Buddha, Dharma and Sangha. With these unique features, this splendid temple has become an attraction for visitors from near and far. Then continue to visit Tsedang.

Stay overnight in Tsedang

Day 5: Tsedang Tour - Yambulakhang Palace, Trundruk Monastery

Drive 7kms to visit Yambulakhang Palace, the first building of Tibet which is built in the 2nd century for Tibetan Kings. It situates on a summit of a small hill on the east bank of the Yarlung River.

Then drive to explore the burial tombs of Tibetan Kings. We will also visit Trundruk Monastery in the afternoon.

Stay overnight in Tsedang

Day 6: Tsedang to Gyantse

Drive about 300km to Gyantse. Passing by the green farmland of Nyangchu Valley, Yamdrok lake, Karo-la glacier roadside at 4960m, we move westwards to the traditional Tibet town, Gyantse.

The most important attraction for today is Yamdrok Lake and Kubum Monastery in Gyantse. From the top of the pass Kangpa-la at 4700m high, you can see the fabulous shade of deep turquoise Yamdrok Lake if the weather is clear. Kubum monastery has a 35m-high chorten (stupa) with its white layers trimmed with decorative stripes and its crown-like golden dome.

Stay overnight in Gyantse

Day 7: Gyantse-Shigatse-Sakya

In the morning, we drive towards Shigatse. In Shigatse, you will visit the famous Tashilhunpo Monastery where you can see the well-preserved largest statue of Jampa (future Buddha) in the world. This monastery is the seat of Tibet's second highest incarnation, the Panchen Lama.

In the afternoon, we drive to the Sakya county where tourists can visit the famous Sakya Monastery. It was founded in 1073 and was the principal monastery of the Sakya sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Sakya monastery consists of two parts, northern and southern monastery. The Northern monastery is only visible as a ruin while Southern monastery was built like a fortress, surrounded by a moat.

Stay overnight in Sakya

Day 9: Exit Tibet via Gyirong Border to Kathmandu

In the morning, our Tibetan guide will escort you to Gyirong border. Then, you are kindly required to hike on your own to cross the border bridge which is 50m long, then check in Nepal side, you can get the Nepal visa upon arrival with US$30, please prepare one photo at passport size to get Nepal Visa.

After you get to Nepal side, please find our guide. The guide will accompany you in a comfortable vehicle to the hotel in downtown (7-8hours’ ride) and help you with the check-in procedure. The rest of the day is left for you to have a good rest or to become familiar with the capital city of Nepal by yourself.

Day 8: Sakya - Gyirong Port

Drive to Gyirong Port. Pass Mount Shishapangma (26,286 feet) on the way and cross two major passes - the Lalung La (16,811 feet) and the Nyalam Ton La, also known as the "pass to hell” at 17,060 feet. Below Nyalam, the road descends steeply into the river valley of the Bhote Kosi. The flourishing border town of Gyirong clings to the mountainside with the highway crisscrossing between homes and storefronts.

Stay overnight in Gyirong

Day 10: Kathmandu Sightseeing

Start the morning with a visit to the Katmandu Durbar Square. As the most noted square in Katmandu, the square assembles many splendid ancient buildings between 16th and 19th century, including over 50 temples and palaces.The magnificent Nepal architecture, exquisite decorations and numerous historical items will show you the unique culture of Nepal.

Then continue to visit the Swayambhunath Pagoda, one of the oldest Buddhist holy lands and famous for the glistening pagoda. Your next destination is the Buddhanikantha Temple, where you will see the huge statue of Vishnu lying on the giant snake Ananta. Today's visit will end up with the Bouddhanath Stupa which is about 11 km (7 miles) from the city center of Katmandu and is the largest spherical stupa in the world.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu

Day 11: Kathmandu Sightseeing

After breakfast, you will visit the oldest Hinduism Temple in Katmandu, the Pashupatnath Temple. Although the temple is only open to the Hindus, you can still see the splendid buildings on the viewing platform across the river.

Then proceed to the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Bhaktapur means the city of devotees. About 19 kilometers (about 12 miles) from Katmandu, the Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the best model of Nepalese craftsmanship. The highlight of the square is the royal palace with its 55 windows of brick and wood, and the Golden Gate, carved with the portrait of Goddess Durga.

Afterward, head for another famous square, the Patan Durbar Square, where you will pay a visit to the Golden Temple, one of the most famous Vihara in Katmandu Valley.

Day 12: Nagarkot to Pokhara (230 kms, 6 hours’ drive)

Have breakfast at Hotel. Appreciate the sunrise and spectacular view of snow-capped mountains and drive from Nagarkot straight to Pokhara by private car and stay overnight in Pokhara.

Nagarkot: Situated about 35 km east of Kathmandu city, Nagarkot is the nearest panoramic view point and from here one can see the beautiful view of the Himalayan peaks. Nagarkot is located between Kathmandu valley in the west and Indrawati in the east. The top of Nagarkot commands accelerating views in all directions. The altitude of Nagarkot is 2229-m/7133m above sea level. Eve: Walk around Nagarkot for 1-2 hours. Sunset view over the Himalayas – if the weather permits.

Stay overnight in Pokhara

Day 13: Leisure time at Pokhara

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 - 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 center 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 favorite home base for travelers is the eastern shore You can do some outdoor activities like paragliding, helicopter in Pokhara, cost is not included in the package.

Day 14: Pokhara to Kathmandu (200 kms, 5 hours’ drive)

Drive back to Kathmandu after breakfast. Transfer to hotel and stay overnight.

Day 15: Kathmandu Departure

You will be transferred to the International airport to connect onward flight.

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

  • 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

    Sep 2024 Lesya
  • A must do

    I did the hiking tour from Lhasa via Old Tingri to Base Camp with Lhakpa Tenzin. It is a moderate to strenous hike where diamox is a must. The staff has been wonderful and we were supported along the way. They will shift your evening/camping gear to the next camping spot and have a cook to give you meals as well!...More reviews

    Sep 2024 Anh Huynh
  • Wonderful Trip

    It was a wonderful trip for both of us. Special thanks to our tour guide Gelek and Driver Ngawang. Gelek shared lots of history and culture of Tibet, make sure we all good before heading to base camp. We really enjoyed the whole trip with them! Hope to visit this beautiful place soon!...More reviews

    Sep 2024 We J
  • Thanks Keldor!!!

    We had the best guide ever: thanks Keldor for the effort and for helping us throughout the tour! We could see Everest, Kailash and he also put extra effort to show us best spots and providing amazing pictures. I believe that guides make 90% of the journey and I am glad that we had the chance to visit Tibet with the best people! ...More reviews

    Aug 2024 Maria Elena S
  • Solo trip with Gonpo and Tsering.

    My 10 day solo trip with Gonpo(guide) and Tsering(driver) was wonderful. Gonpo was veru accommodating of my medical needs and went the extra mile when it came to showing me spots not on the itinerary, from walks through backstreets and maekets/bazaars...More reviews

    Aug 2024 UADM99
  • Wonderful experience of kailash Manasarovar tour

    Amazing experience touring Tibet starting from Lhasa visiting many monasteries. We did kailash parikrama and an extra day to get close to mount kailash as possible. Being in the presence of Kailash is an experience difficult to explain in words....More reviews

    Aug 2024 Alex Cai
  • Amazing Journey with Tibet Vista

    My friends and I participated in the Mount Kailash tour on July 2 this year. This trip went very smoothly, and I was very lucky to see the full view of Mount Everest and its unparalleled beauty in the setting sun for only one minute...More reviews

    Aug 2024 rajashekar a
  • The most amazing experience with Mr. Tenzin Lhasa!

    My trip to Mt. Kailas with Mr. Tenzin Lhasa as our guide was an unforgettable experience. Mr. Tenzin's Lhasa expertise and deep knowledge of the region greatly enriched our journey. His support throughout the trip was exceptional, ensuring that every aspect of our adventure was seamless and enjoyable...More reviews

    July 2024 Alena F

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