Overview
The Tibet Lhasa Overland Tour with Asiana Treks and Tours offers an unforgettable journey that blends natural beauty, ancient spirituality, and high-altitude adventure. This 10-day journey, starting and ending in Kathmandu, is a carefully curated experience that takes travelers across the dramatic Himalayan landscapes into the heart of Tibetan culture. From bustling Kathmandu to the peaceful courtyards of Lhasa's monasteries, every step of the journey is rich in history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.
This overland adventure is ideal for travelers seeking a deep connection with the Himalayas without high-altitude trekking. With comfortable drives through scenic mountain passes, time for cultural immersion, and opportunities to visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, the Tibet Lhasa Overland Tour delivers both comfort and discovery. Whether you're drawn to ancient Buddhist traditions or the awe of panoramic views over the Roof of the World, this tour provides the perfect combination of both.
Brief Introduction to the Tour
Your journey begins in Kathmandu, the lively capital of Nepal, where you'll receive a warm welcome and brief orientation. From there, you travel by road to the Kerung border, the main gateway to Tibet. The adventure continues as you gradually gain altitude, traversing remote Tibetan towns such as Tingri and Shigatse, each offering glimpses into rural life and stunning mountain landscapes. After several days of travel, you’ll reach the majestic city of Lhasa, the spiritual and administrative heart of Tibet.
In Lhasa, you’ll spend two full days exploring iconic landmarks including the towering Potala Palace, the sacred Jokhang Temple, and bustling Barkhor Street. These experiences provide an insightful window into Tibetan Buddhism, its people, and its resilience. The return journey retraces your route through the Himalayan terrain, offering new perspectives and time for reflection before concluding the tour back in Kathmandu.
Highlights of the Route (Kathmandu – Lhasa – Kathmandu)
Kathmandu to Kerung
The adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to the Kerung Border, where the foothills of the Himalayas start to rise dramatically. The journey winds through rural Nepalese villages and lush green landscapes, gradually ascending to the Tibet border. Kerung is your first overnight in Tibet, allowing you to acclimatize and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Kerung – Tingri – Shigatse – Gyantse – Lhasa
This overland segment is the heart of the adventure. As you travel deeper into the Tibetan plateau, you’ll pass through Tingri—a highland town with panoramic views of the Mount Everest range—and onward to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. The route continues via Gyantse, famous for its Kumbum Stupa, before arriving in Lhasa, a city steeped in ancient spirituality and political history.
Return Journey: Lhasa to Kathmandu via Xegar and Kyirung
After exploring Lhasa, the journey back retraces through Xegar, known for its rugged beauty, and Kyirung, offering a serene descent into Nepal. The landscapes shift once more as you return to the lush valleys surrounding Kathmandu, where the tour concludes.
Key Experiences
Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple
The visit to Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama, is a profound highlight of the tour. This architectural marvel, perched on Red Hill, overlooks Lhasa and houses thousands of Buddhist relics, murals, and ancient scriptures. Similarly, the Jokhang Temple, considered the most sacred temple in Tibet, invites pilgrims and visitors alike into its deeply spiritual atmosphere. Walking the Barkhor Circuit around the temple offers a powerful cultural experience as devotees spin prayer wheels and chant mantras.
Himalayan Drive and High Passes
The overland journey is packed with dramatic views and thrilling mountain roads. You'll cross several high-altitude passes including Lalung La and Gyatso La, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks like Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, and Shishapangma. These moments provide countless photo opportunities and a deep appreciation for the sheer magnitude of the Himalayas.
Tibetan Culture and Remote Towns
Every stop along the route introduces you to different aspects of Tibetan life. From the monastic communities of Shigatse to the traditional houses in Gyantse, you’ll experience the everyday resilience and warmth of the Tibetan people. Visiting local markets, engaging with monks, and witnessing centuries-old customs are integral parts of this cultural immersion.
Summary of the Tour Experience – Tibet Lhasa Overland Tour
Organized by Asiana Treks and Tours
The Tibet Lhasa Overland Tour is a breathtaking journey across the highlands of Tibet that combines natural grandeur, spiritual enlightenment, and cultural depth. Starting in Kathmandu, Nepal, this overland adventure crosses into Tibet via the Kerung border, allowing travelers to experience a gradual altitude gain and fully absorb the ever-changing landscape. The route winds through ancient trade towns like Tingri, Shigatse, and Gyantse before reaching the spiritual heart of Tibet—Lhasa. Over ten days, participants are immersed in local life, dramatic scenery, and UNESCO-listed landmarks that reveal the mystery and resilience of the Tibetan spirit.
What makes this journey particularly unique is the transition from the lush valleys of Nepal into the stark, awe-inspiring Tibetan plateau, home to snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and windswept high passes. Along the way, you’ll witness centuries-old monasteries, interact with friendly locals, and stand in reverence before sacred monuments like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. The overland route offers the best of both worlds—adventure and comfort—allowing for cultural engagement without the need for strenuous trekking.
Key Features of the Tour Experience:
Overland travel across the Himalayas from Nepal to Tibet and back
Comfortable acclimatization schedule with scenic drive and rest days
Visits to key Tibetan cities: Lhasa, Shigatse, Gyantse, Tingri
Exploration of iconic heritage sites and spiritual centers
Ideal for photography, history, and culture enthusiasts
Key Highlights and Cultural Attractions
The Tibet Lhasa Overland Tour is designed around some of Tibet’s most iconic attractions and spiritual centers. In Lhasa, you’ll explore the magnificent Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama. This towering white-and-red structure houses ancient scriptures, golden tombs of past lamas, and intricate murals that reflect Tibet’s spiritual legacy. The nearby Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s most sacred religious site, draws pilgrims from all across the plateau who chant and prostrate their way around the Barkhor Market Circuit—a deeply immersive and moving experience.
Beyond Lhasa, the tour takes you to Shigatse, home to the Tashilhunpo Monastery, seat of the Panchen Lama. In Gyantse, the majestic Kumbum Stupa and Pelkor Chode Monastery offer insight into unique Tibetan architectural styles and religious practices. You’ll also cross dramatic high passes like Karo La and Gyatso La, where the Himalayas unfold in panoramic vistas that include Mount Everest and Shishapangma. This is not just a sightseeing trip—it’s a journey into the spiritual and geographic heart of the Himalayas.
Cultural & Scenic Highlights:
Potala Palace – Spiritual and political heart of Tibet
Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street – Pilgrimage and local culture
Tashilhunpo Monastery – Seat of the Panchen Lama in Shigatse
Gyantse Kumbum – Unique architectural stupa with chapels
High passes & Himalayan views – Overlooks of Everest and sacred peaks
Authentic Tibetan villages – Cultural immersion beyond major cities
Who This Tour Is Ideal For
The Tibet Lhasa Overland Tour is perfect for travelers who seek a meaningful journey beyond conventional sightseeing. It is tailored for adventurous souls who want to experience Tibet's mystical culture, rich history, and striking geography—without the rigors of long trekking. Because the tour is vehicle-based, it allows a wide range of travelers to explore high-altitude terrain while still enjoying relative comfort and safety. It’s especially suitable for cultural explorers, photographers, educators, and spiritual seekers eager to engage with Tibetan Buddhism and Himalayan traditions firsthand.
This tour is also ideal for families with older children, solo travelers, and small groups who appreciate slow travel and immersive experiences. Because the route provides a gradual gain in elevation, it offers a comfortable pace for acclimatization, making it appropriate for travelers who may not have prior high-altitude experience. Additionally, those who are interested in Buddhist culture, ancient art, traditional lifestyles, and sacred landscapes will find the itinerary deeply rewarding.
Best Suited For:
Cultural and spiritual travelers
Photographers and nature lovers
Solo explorers and small travel groups
Families and older adults seeking non-trekking adventure
Anyone fascinated by Buddhism, Tibetan culture, or Himalayan landscapes
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal (1300m)
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our friendly team from Asiana Treks and Tours will be there to welcome you. After immigration and customs formalities, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in the city center. The rest of the day is free to relax and recover from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, known for its lively atmosphere, cafes, and handicraft shops.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu – Kerung Border (145 km, 6–7 hours)
After an early breakfast, we begin our scenic drive northward through the lush hills and terraced fields of Nepal towards the Chinese border. The route to Rasuwagadhi is both rugged and beautiful, offering stunning views of rivers, waterfalls, and traditional mountain villages. After immigration formalities at the Nepal-China border, we cross into Tibet and drive a short distance to the town of Kerung. Overnight in Kerung.
Day 3 : Kerung – Tingri (4300m) – Shigatse (390 km)
Today, we ascend to the Tibetan plateau, driving through remote highlands with dramatic mountain scenery. We pass by the high-altitude settlement of Tingri, known for its panoramic views of Everest and surrounding peaks, and continue to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayas, wide-open landscapes, and occasional sightings of nomadic yak herders. Overnight in Shigatse.
Day 4 : Shigatse – Gyantse – Lhasa (3650m, 260 km)
After breakfast, we head eastward toward Lhasa, stopping en route at the historic town of Gyantse. Here, we visit the famous Kumbum Stupa and Pelkor Monastery, remarkable examples of Tibetan architecture and artistry. Continuing the journey, we drive over high mountain passes, including Karo La (5045m) and Kamba La (4794m), with views of the shimmering Yamdrok Lake. We arrive in the holy city of Lhasa in the evening. Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 5 : Lhasa Sightseeing Tour
Today is dedicated to exploring the spiritual and cultural landmarks of Lhasa. Our guided tour begins with the awe-inspiring Potala Palace, once the winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Next, we visit Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s most sacred shrine, and a spiritual focal point for Tibetan Buddhists. In the afternoon, wander through Barkhor Street, a bustling pilgrimage circuit and traditional market where locals and monks mingle. Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 6 : Lhasa Sightseeing (Option for Departure)
We continue our exploration of Lhasa with visits to two significant monasteries. First is Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world and home to thousands of monks. Then we visit Sera Monastery, known for its unique debating sessions among monks, a fascinating cultural experience. You can either choose to stay another night in Lhasa or opt for departure today if on a shorter itinerary. Overnight in Lhasa (or depart).
Day 7 : Lhasa – Xegar/Tingri (4200m, 494 km)
After a memorable stay in Lhasa, we begin our return journey westward toward the town of Xegar or Tingri. The long drive takes us through the vast Tibetan plateau with views of majestic peaks and desert-like terrain. Along the way, we retrace parts of our earlier route, taking in more of the stark beauty of the Himalayan highlands. Overnight stay in Xegar/Tingri.
Day 8 : Xegar to Kyirung (2770m)
Today’s drive descends from the highlands of Tibet back toward the border town of Kyirung. The journey offers another opportunity to absorb the magnificent mountain vistas, including distant glimpses of Mt. Everest on clear days. As we arrive in the verdant valley of Kyirung, we notice the change in scenery from arid plateau to forested hills. Overnight in Kyirung.
Day 9 : Drive from Kyirung to Kathmandu (395 km, 6–7 hours)
After breakfast, we complete the border formalities and re-enter Nepal. The drive back to Kathmandu takes us through scenic countryside, with plenty of opportunities to stop for local food and photographs. Upon arrival in the city, check into your hotel and enjoy your final evening in Nepal, perhaps with a cultural dinner show. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 10 : Final Departure (Option: Extra Day in Kathmandu)
Today marks the end of your Tibet Lhasa Overland Tour with Asiana Treks and Tours. Depending on your flight schedule, we will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey. If you choose to extend your stay, we can organize an additional day of sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley, covering landmarks like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square.