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Overland Tibet with Kailash & Mansarovar Lake

Trip Rating

Review

Days/ Duration

15 nights 16 days

Tour Style

Offbeat Tours

Group Size

4 people

Season

May to October

Location

Tibet

Meeting Point

Lahasa

Skill Level

Physically & Mentally Fit

Accommodation

Hotels / Guesthouse

Weather

Moderate weather

Starting From Heart

$0

Overview

It is a spectacular journey to Kailash in Western Tibet. We will spend two full days for sightseeing in and around Lhasa, the holy land and religious center for pilgrims from all parts of the country. Afterwards we travel along the south route to West Tibet. During the long driving on bad roads we enjoy the unforgettable fantastic landscapes between Himalaya and Trans-Himalaya. We’ll pass by the beautiful Yamdrok Lake and cross over the Karo La (5.010 m) (La=Pass) and Simi La before we reach Gyantse and Shigatse, where we visit the famous and beautiful monasteries of monasteries Pelkor and Tashilunpo to enjoy the magnificent religious constructions, great Buddhist statues and excellent murals.

This journey literally takes us to the roof of the world

  • Overland trip from Tibet to Nepal
  • Cultural highlights Lhasa, Gyantse and Shigatse
  • Potala Palace, Jokhang Monastery, Norbulinka, debate in Sera Monastery
  • Gorgeous view from Parla Lupu Grotto Monastery to Potala
  • Beautiful holy lake Yamdrok
  • Palkhor Monastery with the impressive pagoda Kumbum
  • Tashilunpo Monastery in Shigatse, former seat of the Panchen Lama
  • The northern silk of the magnificent Everest with monastery Rongbuk and Everest Base Camp
  • Walking by holy Manasarovar lake
  • 3-day Kailash Trekking in West Tibet
  • 2 days sightseeing in Kathmandu, Nepal

Itinerary


Day 1 |Arrive in Lhasa
Welcome to Tibet – the roof of the world

Today arrive in Lhasa (3650 m), the capital of Tibet, transfer to hotel. Stay at the hotel for adapting to the high altitude. It is helpful to take things easy for the first few days, and try to drink some water.

Day 2 | In Lahasa for acclimatization

In the morning visit Potala, which was originally constructed in 637 by Songtsen Gampo, the first king of the united Tibet, and later expanded and served as the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas as well as the religious-political nexus of traditional Tibet. The crowds of pilgrims, innumerable magnificent murals, Buddhist statues, scriptures and rare treasures altogether create a dense religious and art atmosphere that impresses every visitor. In the afternoon visit Jokhang monastery, the center of the Tibetan Buddhism and the sacred land of Buddhist followers where thousands of pilgrims come for worship everyday. The temple, built in 647, is the earliest wood-and-masonry structure still existing in Tibet. Walk on the Barkhor street surrounding Jokhang, a big free market with its prolific stalls for selling local specialties.

Day 3 | In Lahasa for acclimatization

In the morning visit Parla Lupu Cave Monastery, located on the slopes of Yaowang Mountain, was built in the 7th century. It is 22m high and from here you can have a wonderful panoramic view over Potala palace. Afterwards visit Norbulinka, the summer residence of the Dalai Lamas. In the afternoon visit Sera Monastery, which was created in 1419 and has always been an important Buddhist seminary. It is also one of the six master monasteries of the Gelugpa. As rose are planted everywhere in the monastery, it is also called “the court of wild rose”. Today still 200 lamas live in there. You have the opportunity to experience the famous monks’ “Buddhism scriptures debates”. Public religious debates are part of the education of monks.

Day 4 | Lhasa – Gyantse – Shigatse ( 356 km / 7 Hrs )
Drive to Gyantse. On the Kamba La (4796 m) have a fantastic view of the holy lake Yamdrok (4,441 m), one of the three holy lakes in Tibet and the largest habitat of waterfowls in south Tibet. On arriving, visit Pelkor Monastery as well as the splendid Kumbum Stupa (100-Thousand-Buddha Pagoda) nearby, both of them built in the 15th century and situated in the northwestern edge of Gyantse. This typical Tibetan Buddhist monastery is the only one large building complex in Tibet that old monastery and stupas are completely preserved and characterized as a monument. It is recorded 14,000 kilograms of copper was used to make the 8-meter-high sitting statue of Sakyamuni Buddha housed in the grand hall of the temple. The 8-storey stupa is 42m high and 62m in diameters contains a total of 76 chapels with wonderful murals revered by art scholars around the world. Afterwards drive about 90 kilometers to Shigatse (3880m), the second largest city with 40,000 inhabitants in Tibet and the traditional capital of the Tsang.

Day 5 | Shigatse – Shegar – Rongbuk / Everest BC ( 334 Kms / 6 Hrs )
In the morning visit the Tashilunpo, “Mountain of Happiness”. Tashilunpo is also one of the six major temples of the Gelug Sect. Shigatse is the seat of the Pantschen Lama. The monastery houses a giant statue of the Maitreya Buddha, the biggest gilded statue of Maitreya (Buddha of the future) in China. Then drive to Shegar, crossing the paths to Yalung La (4.520 m) and Gyathso La (5.220 m). Continue (90 km, 2 hours) to the Rongbuk Monastery (5,154 m) and the Everest Base Camp, where you can see the steep north side of Qomolangma. On the way at Pang La (5150 m), the view is magnificent: from left to right are Makalu, Lhotse, Everest, Nuptse and Cho Oyu. Rongbuk is the largest monastery in this region and was built at the beginning of the 20th century. You can also admire the spectacular sunset on Everest (Qomolangma) in good weather.

Day 6 | Rongbuk – Paiku Tso – Saga ( 473 Kms /  10 Hrs approx )
Today you will wake up early to have a clear view of the unforgettable sunrise over Qomolangma (Everest). Then drive via Paiku Tso Lake and Xixiabangma Mountain to Saga. Paiku-Tso Lake covers an area of 300 square kilometers, is the largest lake in Shigatse. Paiku-Tso locates between three mountains, is rich in fish. There live various wild animals such as wild horses, wild donkeys and yellow ducks, etc.

Day 7 | Saga – Paryang – Manasarovar Lake ( 495 Kms / 7 Hrs approx )
Continue along the south route and enjoy beautiful views while visibility is clear. During the south route the Himalayas rising gradually in the north, and the mountains stand side by side. Sometimes, especially on the last stretch of road, kiangs (wild ass) and antelopes can be seen. Drive to Manasarovar lake.

Day 8 | Manasarovar Lake – Darchen ( 49 Kms )
Manasarovar Lake is 330 square kilometers, 81.8 meters deep. The lake is nestled between two snow-capped mountain ranges. The area is one of the most beautiful landscapes in Tibet. For Hindus, Manasarovar is a sacred lake. Therefore,Walking around the lake and washing and purifying themselves with the lake became the most important goal of the pilgrims. Short hike and visit at Manasarovar lake. Enjoy the views of the eight monasteries on the shores of the northern Kailash and Manasarovar Lake. Then continue in about 1 hour to Darchen (4,800 m, starting point of the Kailash Circumnavigation).

Day 9 | Trekking to Kailash, about 22 km

Start a 3-day trekking tour of Kailash

The village of Darchen only consists of a few stone houses, which are located about 6 km north of the main road. Accompanied by carriers and yaks, you will start a 3-day tour in Kailash. For Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Bon, the mountain is the most sacred place in the world. It is the cosmic axis, the “navel of the world”. Past numerous chorten and Manimauern the path leads into the broad valley on the west side of the mountain. Along with Tibetan and Indian pilgrims, you will pass the famous prayer flagpole, the “Buddha’s Footprints”, and abandoned hermit clauses. After about 7 hours of walking, on the first day of the tour you will reach our campsite at 5,100 m altitude.

Day 10 | Trekking around Kailash, about 20 km
The most important part of the circumnavigation around Kailash involves crossing the most sacred spot, the 5,600m high Dolma-La, the highest point of the Parikrama, where there is a “holy” stone adorned with prayer flags , according to legend, that is the place where the goddess Dolma disappeared. Trek down a slightly steep but good path. Soon you will pass Thuji Zimbo Lake, which the Hindu Gauri calls it Kund and consider sacred. The total walking time on the second day is 7 to 8 hours.

Day 11 | Trekking around Kailash, about 11 km, drive Darchen – Paryang
The third stage needs past numerous mani walls with stone tablets back to Darchen, which means the circle of your circumnavigation ends. In Darchen you get into the vehicle, which brings you to Paryang.

Day 12 | Paryang – Saga – Kyirong (Jilong) ( 405 Kms / 7 Hrs approx )
Continue driving via Saga to the Chinese border station Kyirong (Jilong).

Day 13 | Kyirong – Kathmandu ( 185 Kms / 7 Hrs approx )
Driving to the official border crossing of Kyirong China in the morning. Say goodbye to colleagues from Tibet and the colleagues from Nepal are waiting for you at the Nepalese border post. After finish formalities for leaving Nepal, continue driving to Kathmandu.

Day 14 | In Kathmandu
In Kathmandu visit the villages Khokana and Bungmati, where you can experience the daily life of the Nepalese in the countryside. Then visit the city of Patan, which is also known as Lalitpur “City of Art”.

Day 15 | In Kathmandu 
Full day sightseeing in Kathmandu: Durbar Square or Hanuman Dhoka Palace. When the weather is nice you can enjoy a good view over the Kathmandu valley. In the afternoon, visit the Bagmati River’s Pashupatinath Temple, the most famous temple of Indian religion. About 2 km away is Bouddhanath, the largest stupa of its kind. It locates on the ancient Tibetan trade route.

Day 16 | Departure
On time transfer to airport to board departure flight for home.

Thing to do extra


– Authentic Local Food
– Hiking in the mountains
– Meditation and yoga
– Visit local market
– Photography

Food and Meal


During this tour, you will be served daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner at either the hotel or while on the road. Every day you get the best local food, Lunch serves on the way at running local food joint. Dinner will be at hotel and resort or camp where you stay. On some places, we can plan to visit the best city restaurant

Type of stay


Hotels / Homestays  / Camps / Guesthouse

Day 1 : Lahasa | Hotel
Day 2 :Lahasa | Hotel
Day 3 :Lahasa | Hotel
Day 4 : Shigatse | Hotel
Day 5 :Rongbuk | Guesthouse
Day 6 : Saga | Hotel
Day 7 : Manasarovar Lake | Guesthouse
Day 8 :Darchen | Hotel
Day 9 : Kailash | Guesthouse
Day 10 : Kailash | Guesthouse
Day 11 : Paryang | Guesthouse
Day 12 : Kyirong | Hotel / Guesthouse
Day 13 : Kathmandu / Hotel
Day 14 : Kathmandu / Hotel
Day 15 : Kathmandu / Hotel

Getting there


STARTS AND END POINT OF TOUR
The Tour starts from Lahasa, you can reach Lahasa either by taking a flight from Kathmandu or through Shanghai or Beijing

Lahasa is also connected with Train from Shangai / Beijing and other major cities in China

Good Physical fitness is required for this tour, please see your physician before planning for the trip as Tibet is an Hight altitude area

Including the package cost

  1. Arrival and Departure Airport transfer, accompanied by an English speaking representative.
  2. 15 Nights accommodation in Hotels / Guesthouses in Tibet & Nepal on twin / double share basis of rooms, or as per plan.
  3. Travel in private vehicle for duration of tour.
  4. Meals Breakfast & Dinner for duration of tour. ( Note in Lahasa & Kathmandu – Lunch & Dinner are not included )
  5. All entry fees as per itinerary.
  6. Everest Conservation fee for members, bikes, Crews and vehicle
  7. All necessary Tibet entry and road permits,
  8. Tibetan English speaking guide in Tibet, English speaking guide in Nepal
  9. Porter, pack yaks during the trekking

 

Not including the cost


  1. Stay for extra days if any ( we can make bookings for you )
  2. Flights to the destination.
  3. Extra food Like Starters /Lunch /Dinner all over Pay & Eat ( if Any outside the venue)
  4. Midway snacks.
  5. Extra luggage Jeep ( If any )
  6. Any damage/fine/ cost.
  7. Any damages /fine/ Insurance
  8. Toll Tax if any.
  9. Nepal & China VISA
  10. Any kind of personal expenses or optional tours, extra meals, starters (Alcoholic, Mineral, Soft Drinks, Aerated) etc.
  11. Extra guide fee, Camera & Video fee ,Tips, Insurance, Laundry, Phone
  12. Any activity apart from mentioned ones.
  13. Any cost arising out of unforeseen circumstances like damage accruing from land blocks, bad weather etc.
  14. Any medical expenses incurred during the trip or travel insurance
  15. Anything not mentioned in inclusions
  16. Insurance for or against accidents, loss of life, theft etc.
PAX COST
04 Pax in SUV Contact for Details
This is a private departure 

Durations

15 Nights / 16 Days

Month

Aug
July
June
May
October
September

Tour's Location

Tibet

FAQs

How do I get Tibet Visa?
To obtain the Tibet visa if you are travelling from Nepal, We apply for your Tibet visa at least ten days in advance with all your passport details and PP size photos. With passport and itinerary details visa will be stamped before your departure to Tibet. Most of the Tibet visa will be done in group wise minimum of 2-5 pax with 2 sheets of papers with name list and passport details where visa will stamped one entry and other final departure from Tibet.
How bad is Altitude Sickness in Tibet, and what can I do to avoid, or treat it?
Tibet is one of the highest places on earth. Due to Tibet's high altitudes, many visitors from low-altitude areas may suffer from altitude sickness. Most people suffer minor effects of altitude sickness only, which include headache, loss of appetite, and a tendency to have no energy until their bodies adjust to the high terrain. This adjustment can take anywhere from a few hours, and in rare cases, a few days. If visitors do some simple preparations before going to Tibet, most of the symptoms of altitude sickness can be avoided. Being healthy and in good shape before you arrive in Tibet will help greatly. It is also recommended that you talk to your local physician about AMS pills to help combat altitude sickness. Once arriving in Tibet, walk slowly and take deep breaths. Your tour guide will be there to offer help and suggestions.
Can you book a hotel for me?
Yes, sure we can book hotel stay for you for your pre and post tour days.
What is your cancellation policy?
In case of cancellation of tour/travel services due to any avoidable/ unavoidable reasons we must be informed in written. Cancellation charges would be effective from the date we receive mail in written and cancellation charges would be as follows:
• Once the booking is confirmed – 25% of the tour/service cost.
• 15 days prior to arrival – 50% of the tour/service cost.
• 07 days prior to arrival – 75% of the tour/service cost.
• Less than 72 hours or no show – NO REFUNDS
Can you send us the final itinerary before we book the tour?
Yes we always send the tour program before you book.
Note - as we travel in the Himalayas at time if necessary we have to make changes in the itinerary due to snow fall / road closure or any other natural calamity that is beyond our control.
How do we communicate with other team mates when where is no mobile signal en-route
We provide walki-talki sets for communication to all travelling vehicles, so there we can have uninterrupted communication.
Is basis first aid available with the team
The accompanying team carries with it basis first aid, Oxygen for emergency use
How long does it take to get Tibet Visa?
Generally it takes around a week to get the tourist VISA

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