• 13 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Discovery
  • 13 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Discovery
  • 13 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Discovery
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13 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour including Mount Everest and Kailash

Unbelieveable Overland Trip

This tour covers a full Tibet Discovery, including Golden Triangle Cities (Lhasa, Gyantse and Shigatse) and most attractive mountains (Mt. Everest and Mount Kailash). In this tour, you can appreciate the architectural art, the Buddhist culture, old history as well as natural beauty. In Ngari, the trekking gives you the most breathtaking landscape along Mount Kailash. After the wonder Tibet exploration, you will drive to Kathmandu via Gyirong Port directly, instead of driving back to Lhasa and transferring again.

Highlights of this tour:

  • Explore three most important cultural centers in Tibet – Lhasa, Gyantse and Shigatse, visit the world-famous sights, such as Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Palcho Monastery, Tashilhunpo Monastery, etc.;
  • Get to Mt. Everest – the highest peak in the world, and feel your soul change as you gaze at a spectacular sunrise from Rongbuk Monastery;
  • Envelop yourself in the mystery of Ngari, and take a close sight of its geographical and spiritual focal points – sacred Mount Kailash and holy Lake Manasarovar;
  • Enjoy the beautiful scenery and worry-free transportation while driving overland from Tibet to Kathmandu.

Tour Brief Information

  • Tour price:

    1. This price is based on a group of 2 adult travelers who will take our private tour and share one standard rooms in regular local 4-star hotel in lower seasons.

    2. This price is subject to change according to your traveling season, group size, hotel class, change of activities in your itinerary and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate. If you want a lower price, you can get more people to join you, or use economy class hotels.

    3. This price is only valid to March 31, 2024.

    4. Reference exchange rate of USD 1= RMB 6.85. The final quotation will be adjusted according to the latest real-time exchange rate.

  • Tour code: TD-TNO-13
  • Tour type: Private Customizable Tour Package
  • Destination: Lhasa / Shigatse / Everest / Mount Kailash / Kathmandu
  • Duration: 13 days and 12 nights
  • Departure: Flexible
  • Travel Theme: CultureTrekkingPhotographyMountain
  • Best Time: SummerAutumn
  • Physical Level

    Physical Requirements

    • Capable of walking short to medium distances by oneself in high altitudes. Must be capable of minor ascents and descents.
    • Capable of light walking and hiking in high altitudes. Suitable for most fitness levels.
    • Average fitness level. High altitude hiking for several hours.
    • Possibly includes high altitude hiking of up to 6 hours per day or activities of a similar nature. Requires an elevated level of fitness.
    • Features demanding high altitude treks or cycling. Only suitable for those with a high level of physical fitness and endurance.

    Note: If you have any questions concerning the requirements or the unique demands for your particular tour package, please feel free to contact one of our helpful Travel Consultants for further information.

    It's advisable to have a body check-up or have your doctor's advice before visiting Tibet. Visitors with a record of heart, lung, liver, or kidney problems must seek medical advice before making the decision to go to Tibet Also, people with any of the following problems should not go to Tibet.

    • Have already caught a cold
    • Have severe anemia
    • Have high blood pressure or severe heart disease
    • Have pneumonia, tuberculosis, tracheitis, or bronchitis
  • Tour Pace
    Tight

    Tour Pace

    • Leisure: enjoy your tour in a slow pace, allowing plenty of time for photography, you will see the most famous attractions, and spend plenty amount of time in each destination.
    • Comfortable: enjoy your tour in a comfortable pace, you will see most popular attractions, and spend reasonable amount of time in each attraction.
    • Tight: enjoy your tour at a tight pace, as you will be able to see as many tour attractions as possible in the available amount of time.
  • Max Altitude
    5,650m

    Altitude

    High Altitude Sickness is one of the biggest challenges when travelling in Tibet. According to our experience, most people will be fine up to 3500m above sea level, as the altitude go higher up to 4500m, mild symptoms as shortness of breath, headache might occur. Adverse reactions may vary from person to person. In most cases, the symptoms are mild and will subside in several hours to several days as the body acclimatizes.

    Mild Symptoms of AMS include:

    • Headache
    • Shortness of breath with exertion
    • Rapid pulse (heart rate)
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Fatigue
    • Loss of appetite
    • Poor sleeping
    • Dizziness or light-headedness
    Definition of High Altitude

Your tour - at a glance

Day 1~3 Arrival & Lhasa Tour

After arriving at Lhasa on the Day 1, you will go to visit the most classic attractions in Lhasa on Day 2 and Day 3, including the grandiose Potala Palace, holy Buddhist sites Jokhang Temple, Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery, also the exotic Barkhor Street and quiet Norbulingka.

Day 4 Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse

You will travel from Lhasa to Shigatse and visit the tranquil Yamdrok Lake, imposing Karola Glacier and unique Palcho Monastery on route.

Day 5~7 Shigatse - Mount Everest - Saga

In the following three days, you will firstly visit Mount Everest. Then transfer from Everest to Darchen, the nearest town to Mount Kailash, via Saga.

Day 8~10 Mount Kailash Trekking

In the following three days, you will trek around 50 kilometers to complete the Mount Kailash Kora and then drive to Lake Manasarovar.

Day 11~13 Lake Manasarvar - Saga - Gyirong

Drive to Gyirong via Saga. On Day 13, pass through Gyirong Port and leave for Kathmandu

Itinerary Details - Day by Day

Day 1 Lhasa Arrival

Welcome to the roof of the world! You will be picked up by local tour guide at Lhasa airport hall or train station, and then be escorted to check in your hotel in Lhasa city (3,650 m) in a private vehicle. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the local areas and acclimatize yourself to the air, temperature and high altitude of Lhasa.

High Altitude Acclimation Tips: 1) go for some leisure walking to acclimate the high altitude but avoid strenuous activity after arrival; 2) you'd better not have bath, in case of catching a cold; 3) drink more water, and have some fruit; 4) have a good rest...

How to Get to Lhasa: take a domestic flight from other cities like Chengdu, Beijing, Xian, Xining, Kunming, etc. or an international flight from Kathmandu, or take a train from China's other cities, like Chengdu, Xian, Beijing, Chongqing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xining, Lanzhou, etc.

  • Our guide met our customer Bob in Lhasa Railway Station Our guide met our customer Bob in Lhasa Railway Station

Day 2 Lhasa Tibetan Culture Tour (B)

Today you will visit popular attractions in Lhasa city and suburb to explore Tibetan culture. You will firstly go to visit the beautiful Norbulingka which used to be the former summer palace of Dalai Lamas in the ancient time, and now is a public park. Dotted with various kinds of precious flowers and plants, it is the genuine "Plateau Oxygen Bar". In addition to its magnificent buildings and colorful flowers, Norbulingka also features some big Tibet event activities during big festivals, like Tibetan shows in annual Shoton Festival. Next, drive several kilometers to the western outskirts of Lhasa to visit Drepung Monastery. Drepung, in Tibetan, means "prosperity". Since its establishment, Drepung Monastery has always been one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. In its heyday, there were more than 10,000 monks lived and studied in the monastery. Throughout its history, many important and famous Tibetan leaders used to study here, especially the Dalai Lamas. So Drepung Monastery is also respectfully known as the "Mother School of Dalai Lamas". You can also enjoy a panoramic view of Lhasa from Drepung Monastery.

In the afternoon, you will be taken to another famous monastery in Lhasa - Sera Monastery. It is famous for the spectacular "Buddhism Debating". As a daily routine, the monks gather in a courtyard, and debate on the Buddhist doctrines with supplemented gestures, which is thought to be helpful to facilitates better comprehension of the Buddhist philosophy to attain higher levels of study. After enjoying the "Buddhism Debating", you will be transferred back to the city. The rest time is your own free time to rest.

The Etiquette of Visiting Monastery: 1) you shouldn't wear short and uncover shoulders; 2) taking off your sunglasses and hat before entering the chapels; 3) taking photos is usually not allowed inside the chapels.

  • Debating Monks of Sera Monastery Debating Monks
  • Ceremony of Shotan Festival at Drepung Monastery Grand Buddha Exhibition in Drepung Monastery during Shoton Festival
  • Norbulingka Summer Palace Pay a visit to the Dalai's Summer Palace - Norbulingka

Day 3 Lhasa Potala Palace Tour (B)

Start today's Lhasa exploration with an exciting visit to the landmark - Potala Palace which is the home to the successive Dalai Lama as well as a great masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. The whole palace is divided into the White Palace - living quarters and office to deal with political and Buddhist affairs for Dalai Lamas, and the Red Palace where houses several stupas of previous Dalai Lamas, many historical relics and precious arts. After entering the gate of Potala Palace, you need to walk up about 30 minutes along the zigzag stone paths with white-and-red walls to the White Palace. Remember to ascend the steps slowly and take some stops for sightseeing and rest which will be helpful to reduce high altitude sickness. Then explore the palace in an orderly way from the White Palace to the Red Palace, and exit from the back side. After Potala Palace visit, go to enjoy a leisure stroll in Zongjiao Lukang Park, a lovely park with pleasant scenery built around the lake behind Potala Palace. It is a great place to experience local Tibetans' living styles as you can see local people gathering and chatting, taking exercise, walking the kora, feeding wild birds and ducks, etc. If your day is clear, you can take some great photos of the reflection of Potala Palace on the lake in the park.

Continuing your exploration, you will then get to Jokhang Temple which is considered as the spiritual center of Lhasa and the most revered religious structure of Tibet. In front of Jokhang Temple, you can see crowds of pilgrims polishing the flagstones with their prostration, which is truly a heart-touching scene you will ever see. This temple is also known as the "house of Buddha" because it keeps the precious Jowo Rinpoche, the life-sized (5 foot/1.5m) image of the Shakyamuni at the age of 12. Rise to the top floor of this temple, you can see savor the beautiful golden roof and the view of Potala Palace afar. The last site for today’s exploration is the famous Barkhor Street. It is a circular and wide street encircling the Jokhang Temple. The local people like to walk on the street for several circles usually in the late afternoon as a daily tradition of pilgrimage. The street also has many shops selling a wide variety of traditional Tibetan goods, religious items and handcrafts.

Optional Activity: If your physical strength permits, take a short climb to the viewing-deck of Chakpori Hill to take a panoramic photo of Potala Palace after your Potala Palace visit.

Tips of today: 1) taking photos is not allowed inside the palace; 2) today you will be mainly outside, please bring some water, a hat, sun cream, and sun glasses with you.

  • Potala Palace Potala Palace - Masterpiece of Tibetan Architecture
  • Pilgrims are prostrating in the Jokhang Monastery Pilgrims are prostrating in the Jokhang Monastery
  • Old Tibetan Lady Welcomes with Smiles Old Tibetan Lady Welcomes with Smiles

Day 4 Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse / 360km, About 8hrs' Driving ( B )

Today, you will leave Lhasa and drive about 8 hours to Shigatse, the second largest city in Tibet. It may be a long journey, but there are many things to do along the road. You will first take a short stop in the viewing platform of Yajiang River Valley (4,280m) where you can take a view of the snaking road and gorge scenery. Go on with your trip and you will reach your first highlight - holy Yamdrok Lake (altitude: 4,400m). As the largest fresh lake in the northern of the Himalaya Mountains, it spreads about 675 square meters from south to north, like an eardrop lying in the arms of snow-capped giant mountains. Viewing from a distance, you can see fertile pastures full of yaks and sheep, and some small Tibetan villages along the lakeshore. Keeping driving not so far from Yamdrok Lake, you will get to the imposing Karola Glacier (altitude: 5,045m) towering aloft on the right side of the road. Go on driving, you will pass by Simi La Pass (4,353m). Have several minutes' break here to take some photos of Simila Mountain and Manla Reservoir.

Continuing your trip, you will get to the historical city of Gyantse. Feel hungry? Have a good lunch in the town, then go to visit the mysterious Palcho Monastery (altitude: 4,040m). The monks and tradition of three important sects of Tibetan Buddhism - Sakyapa, Zhalupa and Gelukpa, peacefully coexist in this monastery. Its Kumbum, which is 35 meters high and has 76 small chapels with hundreds images of Kriyatantras, is believed to be the largest such structure in Tibet.

After the Gyantse sightseeing, keep drive about 3 hours, you will arrive at your hotel in Shigatse (altitude: 3,800m). Have a good rest!

Tips of today: 1) wear warm clothes to prevent from cold and wild; 2) pack some food and drinks with you because you will spend much time on the road.

  • The Kumbu Is the Most Famous Architecture in Palcho Monastery
  • Karola Glaceier Get amazed by the stunning view of Karola Glaceier
  • Yamdrok Lake Enjoy the wonderful scenery of Yamdrok Lake

Day 5 Shigatse - Mount Everest / 350km, About 7hrs's Driving ( B )

Today, you will leave Shigatse for the final destination of your Tibet trip - Mount Everest. Though being a long driving of about 7 hours, but the views along the road are stupendous. As you reach Gawula Pass (5,250), you’ll feast your eyes on the fantastic view of Himalaya range including several famous peaks over 8,000 meters, including Mt. Makalu (8,463 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), Mt Everest (8,844 m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201 m) and Mt. Shishapama (8,020 m). When you finally get to the Rongbuk Monastery, and get the first sight of the mighty Everest, you will immerse in a solemn ethereal mood and find all the efforts you have made along the long way are not in vain. Located about 5100 meters above the sea level, Rongbuk Monastery is the highest monastery in the world. It is the best location to take some great photos of the front face of Mount Everest. The rest of today is free for you to visit the Rongbuk Monastery and explore the nearby Everest Base Camp. Take photos with the Everest altitude marker and EBC marker to commemorate your wonderful adventure tour.

Accommodation: if you visit Mount Everest during the off season (November to April), you will accommodate at Rongbuk Guest House near the Rongbuk Monastery; if you visit Mount Everest during the peak season (May to October), you will accommodate in a local Tibetan tent at Everest Base Camp which is only run between May and October by local Tibetans. It is near Rongbuk Monastery as well. Please note that the accommodation at both places is very simple and basic, only dorm beds with communal squat toilets are available. Duvets, heated blankets and hot water will be provided, and you are suggested to bring your own sleeping bag and toilet paper. There is no running water, sinks or showers. The dining room just offers basic breakfast and dinner without menu. Remember to dress warmly all the time.

Tips of today: bring a warm coat for low temperature in Everest and avoid strenuous activity to prevent from high altitude sickness.

  • Rongbuk Monastery Rongbuk Monastery on the Mount Everest
  • Tashilumpo Monastery Tashilhunpo Monastery is the oldest and largest Gelugpa Monastery
  • Dining Room of Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse Dining Room in Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse

Day 6 Mount Everest - Saga / 450km, About 9hrs' Driving

Wake up early to enjoy the marvelous sunrise on the peak of the world from Rongbuk Monastery. The top part of the Mount Everest is always covered by snow all the year round, and when the sun shines on the mountain, the peak is like a giant white pyramid, which is one of the most famous sceneries of Mount Everest. In bright days, you can also see a wisp of cloud hanging above the top of Mount Everest. It flies eastward in the fast western wind just like a flapping flag. This unique phenomenon is the spectacular “Cloud Flag”. The cloud will change from surging waves into a thin cooking smoke or from galloping steeds into the mysterious veil of a goddess.

Lastly, you will leave for next destination - Saga County. About 8 hours driving may be long and tough, but the landscape you can enjoy on route is fabulous - witness the dominating snow peak Shishapangma from afar, get shocked by desolate and wild plains, enjoy the pure scenery of the Pelkhu tso Lake (4600m)...

Tips of today: 1) to protect the environment of Mount Everest, currently Everest Base Camp is not open for tourists – the Everest landscape can be enjoyed at Rongbuk Monastery and Tibetan Tent Camp as well. The base camp marker, a tablet reading “Mt. Qomolangma Base Camp” has been transferred to the Tibetan Tent Camp. You are suggested to take a photo at the marker to commemorate your wonderful adventure tour; 2) the sunrise usually starts around 6:30 am to 7am on Mount Everest; 3) keep warm all the time.

  • Mt. Everest Charming Sunrise on World Highest Mountain

Day 7 Saga - Darchen / 490km, About 9hrs' Driving ( B )

After breakfast, you have to take another long driving about 550km from Saga to Darchen (4,575m), a small village located as the starting point of  the walking kora of the holy Mount Kailash. During the auspicious pilgrimage times, Darchen will be flooded with Pilgrims with hundreds of tents all over the small village. 

Accommodate at local guesthouse in Darchen.

  • Darchen Town Darchen Town

Day 8 Trek from Darchen to Dirapuk

Trek from Darchen (4,560m) to Dirapuk Monastery (4,750m). The trek is a gradual walk in the clockwise circuit at the average altitude of more than 4,700 meters. You will be accompanied by many local Buddhist pilgrims also walking the same kora. If you meet people who come the anti-clockwise direction, don't be surprise, they are Bon pilgrims. You will stop at the Tamdin (4,780m) for lunch and hot water supply. Then keep trekking 4km to the final destinations of today - Dirakpuk Monaster. This section of trekking boasts some of the best scenery of the entire kora.

Accommodate at Dirapuk guesthouse.

  • Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Day 9 Trek from Dirapuk to Zutulpuk

Trek from Dirapuk Monastery uprising 762 meters at altitude to Zutulpuk Monastery by crossing Drolma-la Pass (5,630m) before quickly descending to Dzutul-puk monastery (Dzutul-puk means "magical cave" in Tibetan).

Stay overnight at the tent guesthouse of monastery.

  • Mount Kailash looks like a huge ice-cream

Day 10 Zutulpuk – Darchen – Lake Manasarovar

Wake up in the holy sunrise of Mount Kailash, after breakfast, you will trek back to Darchen. Todays' trekking is leisure and relaxing, which can be done in 3 ~ 4 hours. On route, explore the meditation cave of Milarepa, the famous Buddhist master and Yoga meditator. Surrounding the cave are many temples and shrines.

Once you exist from the valley, your driver will pick you up and transfer to visit the famous holy lake Manasarovar. Like Mount Kailash, Lake Manasarovar is a holy place of pilgrimage, attracting religious people from India, Nepal, the neighboring countries and Tibet. Believers bath in the Manasarovar Lake and drink its water are believed to cleanse all sins. Every summer, pilgrims from Tibet, India and Nepal cluster to make circumambulation and bathe in the lake. After that, they will return home and bring some samples of the holy water to family and friends as precious gifts.

Stay overnight in a local guest house near the Lake Manasarovar.

  • Lake Manasarovar Kora Pilgrim like to have a Kora along Lake Manasarovar Kora

Day 11 Lake Manasarovar - Saga ( B )

Drive through the windswept territory passing many villages and camps of Yak herders, and back to Saga. There are many opportunities to take great pictures!

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Day 12 Saga - Gyirong ( B )

Today, you will drive about 4~5 hours from Saga County to Gyirong Town which is a small town near the border between Tibet and Nepal. It is a relatively short trip, but the views along the road are stupendous as well. As you reach Gyirong Town, you will have enough time to walk around and enjoy the surrounding landscape. It is also available to get some supplies of food and drinks for the next day’s driving journey.

Accommodate at Gyirong Town. 

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Day 13 Gyirong Port Departure

Today, drive about 25 km to Gyirong Port at China-Nepal border. Tour ends! The rest of today is free on your own to transfer to Kathmandu or other destinations in Nepal. Kathmandu is only about 160 km from Gyirong Port, but remind the road condition is not as good as Tibet roads. It usually takes more than 6 hours to drive to Kathmandu from Gyirong Port because the road is narrow and bumpy, and buddy in rainy season.

  • Gyirong Port Gyirong Port

Price & Service Guide

The quotation for this trip is per person

1. This price is based on a group of 2 adult travelers who will take our private tour and share one standard rooms in regular local 4-star hotel in lower seasons.

2. This price is subject to change according to your traveling season, group size, hotel class, change of activities in your itinerary and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate. If you want a lower price, you can get more people to join you, or use economy class hotels.

3. This price is only valid to March 31, 2024.

4. Reference exchange rate of USD 1= RMB 6.85. The final quotation will be adjusted according to the latest real-time exchange rate.

What's included in this price?

  • Private professional English-speaking tour guide.
  • Private vehicle and Luggage Transfers.
  • Airport (or train) pick up and drop off.
  • All necessary Tibet travel permits, including Tibet Entry Permit, Alien Travel Permit, Border Pass.
  • All accommodations, based on double-occupancy. Medium standard accommodation with attached bathroom on twin sharing basis. Guesthouse or tent in remote areas.
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary. ( “B” for breakfast; “L” for lunch; “D” for dinner.)
  • Admission fees and activity expenses, as noted in the itinerary.
  • Service Charge (the planning, handling, operational and communication charges) & government taxes.
  • Tourists Accident/Casualty Insurance
  • A container of Oxygen for emergency usage while trekking
  • Yaks for transferring luggage

What's excluded in this price?

  • China visa, all air tickets and train tickets to and from Tibet.
  • Sightseeing not listed in the itinerary.
  • Meals not listed in the itinerary.
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, drink, fax, telephone call, , etc.
  • Gratuities, tips to guides, drivers, bellboys, etc.
  • Additional tour service and/or activities.

Value for money:

While the trip of a lifetime is priceless, we know value is a vital aspect for those deciding which tour to choose.

When comparing tour prices, be sure to compare like to like. Our tours are designed to ensure that our customers experience all the culture, history, and beauty that Tibet has to offer, and at a reasonable price.

A great way to enjoy the lowest possible price is to invite more people to join your trip to share the travel experience as well as the tour expense. The more people in a group, the lower the price per person. (We recommend you join our group tour if you are traveling alone. Please contact our travel consultant for more information)

Booking early is also an easy way to ensure the best rate! We highly recommend you contact us at least 1 month before your planned departure date.

FAQs of This Trip

  1. Service Information- What is a private Tibet tour package?

    Private Tibet Tour Package means you will have your own private local tour guide, private vehicle and private driver for your group. You don't have to share the vehicle with others. You tour guide will take care of only your group. With the help of your private tour guide, you will see more in Tibet, communicating with locals to learn about Tibetan lifestyle and culture.

    You have the flexibility to arrange the group activities accorddingly, such as changing the visiting order of attractions or extending the visiting time of certain place. You can also stop on the road as you need.

    If you are traveling with your family or a group of friends, a private tour for your group is ideal. As you have more people in the group, the price won't be much higher than a join-in group tour. It is a good way to save money and enjoy ultimate service.

  2. Accommodation Information

    In Tibet, the overall accommodation situation is not as good as many other parts of China. There are only a few star hotels available in Tibet. In remote areas like Mt. Everest base camp, Mt. Kailash, only guesthouse or tents are available for travelers.

    We hand-picked the hotels in each city and areas for you to ensure you have reasonable places to stay while traveling in Tibet. They are in convenient locations and are as comfortable as the local can provide. We also tend to use hotels with unique Tibetan features.

    In 3- or 4-star hotels in cities and towns like Lhasa, Tsetang, Shigatse and Gyangtse, you do not need to worry about sanitation. Though, it is a fact that traveling in Tibet is a bit hard. If you are going to remote areas like Mt. Everest or stay near the lakes, it is best to bring a sleeping bag to ensure that you have a nice sleep en route. 

    For trekking and cycling tours:

    1, Stay in local hotel or guesthouse.
    2, Stay in tent. (Camping facilities will be provided)
    3, Stay in local Tibetan’s family

  3. Meal Information

    Breakfast: If you are staying in a star hotel, breakfast is usually included. If you are staying in a guesthouse or tent, breakfast is not included.

    Lunch and Dinner:
    We don’t usually include lunch and dinner in our tour itinerary. We do arrange lunch or dinner for you at your request though. However, we prefer to give you the freedom to choose the food you want and pay on the spot. From our previous customers' responses, we find that most of our clients prefer to leave the dinners open on their own so that they can enjoy some time to themselves. They can choose either to go to a local restaurant for a little adventure or to have a simple dinner in the hotel where they stay. They may also prefer to choose a restaurant which appeals to their own unique tastes.

    We have created a list of our favorite restaurants in Tibet and hand-picked some local restaurants to recommend to our customers. In Lhasa, you can choose Chinese food, Western food, Tibetan food as well as Nepalese food and Indian food. In "off-the-beaten-road" destinations, choices are limited. Our tour guide will be more than happy to recommend good restaurants for you and take you to the restaurants available according to your tastes and preferred style of dishes. Soon you’ll develop your favorite Tibetan dishes!

    Meals arrangement in trekking and cycling tours:

    Service one: (recommended if you only have 1-2 people in your group and the trekking day is less than 3 days)
    Our tour guide will take you to a local supermarket to buy the food you need for the trekking. You will need to bring some cash with you. We recommend energy bars, chocolate, water, fruit, and cookies. If the trekking length is less than 3 days, bringing food along can be a good way to lower the costs.

    Service two:
    Some of our tour guides are able to cook for customers for a little bit extra service charge. You can contact our travel consultants to see if it is possible to arrange this service for you. It can be difficult to arrange this service for you in peak season, so we can’t guarantee this service at the moment; however, we will try our best to provide this service for you.

    Service three: (recommended if you have 5-6 people in your group)
    We highly recommend you hire a cook for the trekking tour. As you will trek for average 5-6 hours per day which requires lots of energy, it is important to have proper meal during the trekking section. If you like, we will hire a chef to follow your tour and cook for you during the trekking. They can make sure you have hot food during trekking. They will carry all necessary cooking items and equipment including stove and utensils with them. Some cooks will teach you how to cook as well and make cakes with the group on the last day.

    You can communicate with your cook and let them know what kind of meal you prefer. You may prescribe the menu for cooking and tell the cook whatever requirements you have.

    Daily meal arrangement for your reference:

    Breakfast: coffee, milk, eggs, bread
    Lunch: rice and vegetables
    Dinner: noodles or Spaghetti with vegetables

     

  4. Our Tour Guide and Driver Information

    Local Tour Guides
    Our tour guides are born and raised in the regions we visit so they know all the potential difficulties and how to avoid them. They are highly trained, speak excellent English and know the local myths, traditions and history which they will share with you. Wherever you travel, our guides are the key that unlocks each destination and make the trip memorable and unique.

    Private Driver and Vehicles
    Our drivers have many years of driving experience in the areas and are very reliable. With Tibet Discovery, you can rest assured that we only use the highest quality vehicles available. We use mainly private vehicles, to ensure we get to our destinations as swiftly and smoothly as possible, as well as allowing the freedom and flexibility to stop and look around or stretch your legs.

    If the tour is mainly around Lhasa, we usually choose to use a minivan as the road condition around Lhasa is pretty good, and the minivan costs less as well. If the tour is covering places with poor road conditions or the distances are quite far, we also offer 4WD off road vehicles.

    Notes: Tipping is not traditional in China and was actually illegal until the 1980s. While Chinese do not expect tips from other Chinese, they have come to expect tips from Western travelers. Due to this, it is highly recommended that you tip your tour guides and drivers as they are aware that it is a “Western custom” and may worry that you were not happy with their service if they do not receive a tip.

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  5. Packing List: What should I bring along with me on the tour?

    For clothing, we suggest casual style and layered clothing because temperatures in Tibet vary greatly during a day. Down coat is necessary if you go beyond Lhasa and Shigatse to remote areas, e.g. the Everest Camp or further to Mt.Kailash. Sun glasses, sun block,moisture cream are necessary too.

    For food, 2L of water each day, and some snacks. We also find the energy drink Red Bull is a great energy boost while traveling in Tibet.

    For medicines, we suggest that you take some pain-killer pills with you and enough medicine for colds, diarrhea, nausea and fever. Some nasal ointment andthroat-moistening pills will be of great help for those who are sensitive tochilly weather conditions. Please consult your doctor prior to your travel toTibet. Medicine is a must for travelers to Tibet.

    Note: You don't have to worry about your luggage in trekking tours as we could hire abelly boy and Yak and Yak man to carry your luggage for you during the trekking section of the tour. It is an optional service. 

  6. High Altitude Sickness Information: How can I prepare for high altitude adjustment?

    Anxiety is the common cause of mountain sickness. Our customers age range from 20 years old to 70 years old, there is no evidence that suggests that age has anything to do with the occurrence of mountain sickness.

    Taking a Tibet tour with Tibet Discovery, our tour guide will take care of you and give advice on how to avoid high altitude sickness on arrival. A bottle of oxygen will be prepared for each person for emergency use when the tour includes visiting places like Mt. Everest, Lake Namtso, Mt. Kailash and activities like trekking and biking. Always remember that if you have any problems or feel uncomfortable, please tell your guide immediately or contact our travel consultant.

  7. Tibet Travel Permits and China Visa

    All foreign tourists and Taiwan tourists must apply for a Tibet Entry Permit issued by the TTB (Tibet Tourism Bureau) for entry to Lhasa or any other parts of the Tibet Autonomous Region.

    We will take care of all necessary Tibet permits in all of our Tibet tours. It is included in the price quotation and it is part of our tour services. It's advisable to apply for your travel permits at least 20 days prior to your entry date. The earlier, the easier for us to get a permit for you.

    Please tell us your real occupation when applying a tibet travel permit. Journalists and people involved with political matters (such asdiplomats and government officials) require more complicated procedures to beissued a permit.

    A valid passport and a valid China visa is needed when applying a Tibet travel permit. The cost of a Chinese Visa is not included in our tour, so you have to apply for your China Visa in your country by yourself. If you have any question in terms of applying a China visa and filling out the application form, feel free to contact our Travel Consultant.

  8. Questions About Attractions and Tour Activities

    Acclimatize: We suggest that you take it easy for your first few days in Tibet. Don't push yourself physically since your body will require some time to get used to the high altitude.

    Photography: When photographing Tibetans, please be sure to get their permission first. Also, when inside the religious sites, please be aware that if photography is permitted. It is not allowed to take pictures while inside the halls of Potala Palace and JokhangTemple.  Make sure you bring a flashlight if you want to see the inside of the monastery, though please ask for permission when taking pictures in the monastery. Some Monastery might charge visitors a 10-30RMB fee for taking pictures. Please ask your tour guide if you are not sure.

    Free time: During the free time of your trip, like the rest of the first day and the last day before departure, you can walk around on your own and do some shopping if you wish.

  9. Best time to visit Tibet

    Best time to go:

    Peak Season: June, July, August, September (June to October 15th )
    In July and August, the crowds will be considerably larger and the costs for vehicle, food, accommodation, and tour guides are higher. June-August generally has great weather, though during July and August, Tibet tends to be extremely crowded as many Chinese travel there for their summer vacation. As July and August is the peak season to travel to Tibet. We highly recommend you avoid those two months to reduce the costs.

    Best Value: April, May, and Late October to November (April 16th to May 31st)
    Late April to Early June, late October to November is the best value time to go, as the weather still nice and the cost is considerably less. The tour costs between this time is usually a few hundred dollars cheaper than peak season.

    Shoulder Season: Late November December, January, February, early April (Nov 16th to April 15th)
    December-February tends to be a slow period for travel to Tibet. The weather is generally quite cold, though there will be no crowds like there are during the peak season. Another benefit to traveling during the shoulder season is that prices are considerably lower. The view might not be as vivid but you can enjoy another side of Tibet.

    Note: Above information applies to most Tibet tours. For specific best travel time, please contact our travel consultant.

Reviews of Our Customers

Still not know us well? Read what other travelers are sharing about their Tibet trip with Tibet Discovery (We only accept reviews from confirmed travelers who took our tours / activities, so you can surely rely on the reviews)

Hi Tracy,

our Tibet trip was very good. Thank you.

Gerry

 August 29, 2023
Hi Wonder,

Yes, we arrived home on Friday night. It was a long trip Lhasa-Xi'an-Katmandhu-Doha-London.

The only problem with the return was in Xi'an. Because we had no internet (SIM card) we could not download the health declaration when we left, so it took 1.5 hours to check in and get some help. I would recommend that anyone going to Tibet/China is advised to get a SIM card, or to download the health declaration when they are in the hotel.

Apart from that, everything went very smoothly. Guide and driver were good and we had an amazing time. Hotels were all very good, but we struggled some evenings to work out where or what to eat.

No issues with the Mt Kailash kora and we were lucky with good weather.

We are very grateful for you helping plan an excellent and unforgettable trip and we are very happy to recommend you and Tibet Discovery to other people. if you would like me to write a short testimonial for your website, please let me know.

We are starting to think about next year..... Mongolia is one of the options. Do you plan trips there?

Thanks again for perfect planning and a great holiday.

Regards,

Paul

 September 17, 2023
Hi Leo,

It was incredible! Thanks for another amazing trip! I loved the driver I was so impressed with his skills and kindness. Driving on those mountain roads is not easy. Pur bu the guide was such a great guide. He was so knowledgeable, and I learned so much from him. His knowledge of Tibetan culture and history was amazing. I loved all the activities and things I got to see. Tibet is such a unique and incredible place I felt so lucky and blessed to be there and to have those two help me guide through it. I have no complaints and leave very happy and blessed to have had this experience. I still think about northern xinjiang and I have some friends who might come to China from America so I’ll keep in touch and let you know. I always try to share your contact with others too. You have been such a great help to me and thanks for everything.

Megan

Tibet Tour Photo

Megan's great time in Potala Palce, Namtso Lake, Mount Everest, etc. in July 2023, tour tailormade by Leo

 July 27, 2023
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Useful Trip Notes

  • 1. Tibet Permits
    There are several permits required to visit Tibet. Tibet Entry Permit, issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau, is the most important one which has to be obtained before your trip because you must have it to take your flight/train to Tibet. To get the permit, you have to book a Tibet tour with us, and send us your passport and Chinese visa about 20 days in advance, and then let us apply for the permit (all Tibet permits can only be applied by travel agency). If you travel to other prefectures like Shigatse, Nyingchi, Shannan, etc, you also have to obtain an Alien Travel Permit. If you travel to Mount Everest, you have to obtain a Border Permit. (Tibet Discovery, with office in Lhasa, has always kept up with the latest news on Tibet Permits. Traveling with us, all your permits are guaranteed as long as you are qualified to the requirements.)
  • 2. Available Months to Visit Tibet
    Generally speaking, May to early October is the best time to for a Mount Kailash trip. July and August are the peak season and rainy season. It may be too cold to travel in Kailash area from November to March. There is usually heavy snow. The conditions in Namtso Lake and Mount Everest area are quite similar with Kailash. While other places like Lhasa, Gyantse and Shigatse are suitable for travel all year around.
  • 3. High Altitude Sickness
    The average altitude of Tibet is about 4000 meters above the sea level (Lhasa: 3700m; EBC: 5200m; Namtso: 4718m). You may suffer a bit from High Altitude Sickness in the beginning days of your Tibet trip if you haven’t had rich high plateau travel experience. But don’t worry too much, the high altitude can be acclimatized usually in 2~3 days. Our suggestion is to take a physical examination and get suggestions from your doctor, and also bring some medicines to prevent from High Altitude Sickness before your trip. While in Tibet, you should keep warm all the time, avoid strenuous activities, drink more water and eat more vegetables and carbohydrates. You’d better not take showers during the first two days after your arrival at Tibet. If you don’t feel well, get help from your tour guide or go to the hospital without any delay.
  • 4. How to Go to Tibet
    Basically you have two options – flight and train. Currently, you can take a flight to Lhasa from Beijing(4.5hrs), Xian(3.7hrs), Chengdu(2.5hrs), Chongqing(3hrs), Kuming(3hrs), etc. Among all these cities, Chengdu and Xian have more frequent flights to Lhasa.
    If you prefer a train travel, you can take a train to from Beijing(40.5hrs), Xian(32hrs), Chengdu(43hrs), Shanghai(47hrs), Chongqing(42hrs), Lanzhou(25hrs), Xining(22hrs), Guangzhou(54hrs).
  • 5. Packing and Wearing Ideas
    Firstly you can’t forget your passport and Chinese Visa. A large backpack and a smaller one are recommended (the smaller one can be used for daily activities). Also bring the necessary medicine you need. Other stuffs like sunglasses, snow glasses, hats, lip balm, sun block are recommended.
    As for wearing, you are suggested to dress in layers (both thin and thick jackets). Down jacket is necessary in Spring and Autumn. A pair of durable and comfortable shoes is necessary.

Other Recommended Tour Packages

Tibet has too much to offer and our aim is to bring you the best experience in Tibet. Following are some other recommended Tibet tour packages that you may be interested in. All of our Tibet tour packages are customizable to meet your personal requirements. You can also contact us to customize a trip if you want.

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Price notes:

  • 1. based on double occupancy
  • 2. 3 star accommodation level in low season
  • 3. international airfare is not included
  • 4. price is subjected to change according to group size and payment methods