The Nepal-Tibet Lhasa Tour by Asiana Treks and Tours offers an extraordinary fusion of two ancient cultures. Starting in the vibrant capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, and journeying across the trans-Himalayan region to the heart of Tibet, this tour blends rich spiritual experiences, majestic landscapes, and historical wonders. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in centuries-old traditions, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and journey across one of the most spectacular high-altitude terrains on earth.
This 10-day adventure is ideal for cultural explorers, spiritual seekers, photographers, and those wanting a unique overland experience through one of the most mystical parts of Asia. It offers a deep dive into Tibetan Buddhism, ancient Hindu culture, and the natural splendor of the Himalayas.
Highlights of the Nepal-Tibet Journey
Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu.
Scenic trans-Himalayan flight to Lhasa with incredible views of Everest.
Visit the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism—Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and more.
Witness the architectural brilliance of Gyantse and Shigatse.
Interact with locals and discover centuries-old monastic traditions.
Travel through high-altitude passes and plateaus with breathtaking landscapes.
Cultural & Spiritual Significance of the Tour
This journey provides insight into two of the world’s oldest spiritual traditions—Hinduism in Nepal and Buddhism in Tibet. In Kathmandu, ancient temples and stupas like Swayambhunath and Pashupatinath reveal the religious devotion of Nepalese society. In Tibet, the spiritual atmosphere intensifies in places like the Jokhang Temple and the Tashilhunpo Monastery, where chanting monks and pilgrims offer a glimpse into centuries-old religious practice.
Whether lighting butter lamps in a Tibetan monastery or spinning prayer wheels in a Nepali stupa, this tour offers many opportunities for quiet reflection and spiritual awakening.
Landscapes You’ll Witness: From the Himalayas to the Tibetan Plateau
From lush green valleys and ancient hilltop settlements of Kathmandu to the vast, arid, and spiritual landscapes of the Tibetan plateau, the tour offers dramatic contrasts in geography. The trans-Himalayan flight is a visual masterpiece—offering snow-capped peaks, deep river gorges, and rolling highlands. Overland journeys in Tibet showcase high-altitude lakes, mountain passes, and barren deserts that hold deep spiritual significance to locals.
Who Is This Tour Ideal For?
Cultural & historical enthusiasts
Spiritual seekers & pilgrims
Photographers & landscape lovers
Curious travelers wanting to explore less-traveled regions
Adventurers looking for a high-altitude experience with moderate physical activity
Unique Experiences Along the Route
Scenic flight over Mount Everest and the Himalayas
Explore traditional Tibetan markets and taste authentic cuisine
Meditate in centuries-old monasteries with Tibetan monks
Witness yak caravans and nomadic lifestyle in rural Tibet
Enjoy Tibetan thangka painting and handicrafts in Lhasa
Brief History of Nepal-Tibet Relations
Nepal and Tibet share centuries of cultural, religious, and trade relationships. From the Lichhavi period to the present, the two regions have exchanged art, religion, and commerce. Buddhist pilgrims have crossed these borders for centuries, and many sacred texts and relics were transported from Tibet to Nepal and vice versa. This historic bond is reflected in shared architecture, ritual practices, and spiritual values, making the tour not just a trip across countries—but a journey through shared heritage.
Key Destinations Covered
Kathmandu (Nepal) – Temples, stupas, and ancient palaces.
Lhasa (Tibet) – The spiritual capital and home to the Potala Palace.
Gyantse – A charming town with ancient architecture and the Kumbum Stupa.
Shigatse (Xigatse) – The seat of the Panchen Lama and rich in monastic culture.
Trip itineraries are customizable according to your timetable and budget. Simply, Contact Us.
Your trip day starts today when you arrive to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Upon your arrival, you will be received by our representative at the airport. He will be carrying a signboard with our company’s name on it. Then you will be transferred to the tour hotel and checked in. A trip briefing will follow later today and the time will be notified to you by the representative who picks you up from the airport. We will come to meet and brief you about the trip at the fixed time. Until then just relax or explore a bit of surrounding.
We take you for a day tour of cultural heritage monuments in Kathmandu valley after breakfast. The tour will give you a mixed insight of history, culture, art, architecture and spirituality of Kathmandu valley. The sites include; Swoyambhunath aka Monkey Temple: The oldest of all sites in Kathmandu valley, Swoyambhunath is an important Buddhist spiritual site having the history over two thousand years old. This site has gained a popular name as monkey temple as this small forested hill is a good habitat for hundreds of monkeys. The visit there will heighten your spiritual and cultural experience. Patan City including Patan Durbar Square: A tour to medieval city of Patan gives you a great insight about ethnic Newari culture, Budhhist spirituality, religious harmony, art and architecture while you stroll around the charismatic alleys taking you to magnificent local community squares known as Bahal and eventually leading you to an incredible medieval palace square. The monuments and skill of the local artisans displayed on those monuments in the square will stun you with their unbelievable charm. Boudhanath Stupa: The largest of its kind in the world, this magnificent stupa is a very important centre of faith for the people following Tibetan Buddhism. This place is nice Circular Square with the stunning stupa in the middle of it which spreads a lot of spiritual vibrations around the atmosphere.
Be transferred to airport to take a spectacular flight for about an hour and half to Lhasa from Kathmandu. Our representative will pick you up from the Lhasa airport and drive you to your hotel in Lhasa city. Check into hotel and relax.
Explore the majestic city of Lhasa. Visit Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and Bakhor bazar. Be a little familiar with Tibetan culture and life style.
You will explore some of the beautiful spiritual monasteries in the area. An exploration of Tibetan Buddhist spirituality in the monasteries of Drepung and Sera is an enlightening spiritual journey.
Drive from Lhasa to Gyantse. The stretch of 261 kilometers takes you through two high mountain passé of Kora La (5010 m) and Kamba La (4794 m) and a beautiful Yamadroke Lake. Check into hotel and relax.
Take your breakfast and go for a half day sightseeing tour of Gyantse. Visit Pholkor and Kumbum monasteries in the area. Start driving to Xigatse after sightseeing tour and lunch. A short drive in the stretch of 90 kilometers takes you to a beautiful Tibetan town of Xigatse through spectacular countryside.
Start a half day sightseeing tour of Xigatse after breakfast. A tour of Buddhist monastery and other market area will give you an idea of how different the Tibetan culture is from your own and you can feel the beauty of experiencing a different culture than your own. Drive back to Lhasa later in the afternoon and stay overnight there.
Take another spectacular Trans-Himalayan flight back to Kathmandu. Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport, our representative will be there to help you with your transfer to your hotel. A free afternoon to do souvenir shopping or take a leisurely stroll around.
We will transfer you to the airport for your departure flight back home or to next destination.
Asiana Treks and Tours provides a comprehensive package that includes airport transfers, guided city tours, accommodation in standard hotels, transportation between destinations, flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa and back, necessary Tibet travel permits, English-speaking local guides, and entry fees to major heritage sites. Breakfast is included throughout the trip. However, lunches, dinners, personal expenses, travel insurance, and visa fees are not included in the standard package and must be arranged separately by the traveler.
Yes, travelers need a Nepal visa and a Tibet Travel Permit. The Nepal visa is easily available on arrival at Kathmandu airport. Asiana Treks and Tours assists you with obtaining the Tibet Travel Permit, which is mandatory to enter Tibet from Nepal. You don’t need to apply for a Chinese visa separately when entering Tibet from Nepal; instead, a Group Visa is arranged through the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu after your arrival. Ensure you have at least 6 months’ passport validity.
Asiana Treks and Tours arranges accommodation in 3-star standard hotels in both Nepal and Tibet. These hotels are comfortable, clean, and centrally located, with amenities like private bathrooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and breakfast included. In remote Tibetan towns like Gyantse and Xigatse, hotel standards may vary slightly, but we ensure the best available option in each area. You may also request upgrades to luxury or boutique hotels in Kathmandu or Lhasa, depending on availability and additional costs.
Yes, altitude sickness is a possibility as the tour ascends to over 3,600 meters (Lhasa) and even higher in places like Gyantse (3,950 m). Asiana Treks and Tours has designed the itinerary with gradual acclimatization in mind. Most travelers adapt without serious issues, but symptoms like mild headaches or fatigue can occur. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and rest well. Our guides are trained to recognize symptoms of altitude sickness and will assist you as needed. Consult your doctor before travel.
Transportation during the tour is arranged using comfortable, private vehicles. In Kathmandu, a private car or minivan is used for airport transfers and sightseeing. Flights between Kathmandu and Lhasa are included and booked by Asiana Treks and Tours. In Tibet, a private SUV or tourist bus depending on group size is used for intercity travel to ensure safety and comfort on the mountainous roads. All vehicles are driven by experienced drivers familiar with high-altitude driving conditions.
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for this tour and is mandatory for all travelers booking through Asiana Treks and Tours. The insurance should cover emergency medical expenses, high-altitude evacuation, flight delays, trip cancellations, and baggage loss. Since parts of the journey take place in high-altitude and remote areas, having proper insurance ensures peace of mind in case of unexpected health issues or emergencies. Proof of insurance may be required before the tour begins.
This tour offers a mix of spiritual, cultural, and scenic experiences. In Kathmandu, visit UNESCO-listed heritage sites like Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Patan Durbar Square. In Lhasa, explore iconic landmarks like Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street. Drive through the Tibetan Plateau, stopping at Gyantse and Xigatse to see ancient monasteries and fortress ruins. The overland route offers stunning views of the Himalayas and Tibetan landscapes. It’s a spiritually enriching and culturally immersive journey unlike any other.
The best time to undertake this tour is from April to October, when the weather is clear and pleasant in both Nepal and Tibet. During these months, you can enjoy clear views of the Himalayas and comfortable sightseeing weather. Winter (November–February) can be extremely cold in Tibet, and some routes may be closed due to snow. Summer (June–August) brings occasional rain in Nepal, but Tibet remains largely dry. Spring and autumn are particularly ideal for this tour.
Absolutely! Asiana Treks and Tours specializes in creating customized itineraries based on your interests, time frame, and budget. You can add days in Kathmandu, include Everest Base Camp (North Side), extend to Mount Kailash, or request luxury accommodations. We also accommodate dietary needs, private group tours, and multilingual guides if requested in advance. Let us know your preferences while booking, and we’ll work closely with you to tailor a memorable and comfortable travel experience.
This tour involves moderate physical activity, including walking during city tours, climbing monastery steps, and long overland drives at high altitudes. While not a trek, the elevation and occasional rough roads in Tibet can be tiring. Travelers should be in reasonable physical health, capable of walking for 1–2 hours and adapting to altitude changes. No previous trekking or hiking experience is required. Asiana Treks and Tours ensures ample rest and acclimatization time to make the tour enjoyable for all fitness levels.
Asiana Treks and Tours offers both private and small group tours. Group tours typically have 4 to 12 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a comfortable experience. Private tours are ideal for couples, families, or friends traveling together and can be fully customized. Larger groups can also be accommodated with advance notice. Regardless of the group size, we maintain high service standards and provide professional guides, reliable vehicles, and 24/7 customer support throughout the journey.
Yes, professional English-speaking guides are provided throughout the tour. In Nepal, certified local guides lead the heritage city tours. In Tibet, trained Tibetan guides with deep cultural knowledge accompany you from Lhasa to the outlying towns, explaining the history, religion, and local customs at each site. If you require a guide in another language (e.g., Spanish, French, or Chinese), Asiana Treks and Tours can arrange this with prior notice for an additional cost.
Breakfast is included daily in your hotel. In Kathmandu, you’ll find a wide variety of cuisines including Nepali, Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes. In Tibet, the food is simpler but hearty, featuring items like momos (dumplings), noodles, yak meat, rice, and soups. Vegetarian options are widely available. You’ll have the freedom to choose your lunch and dinner spots. Your guides can recommend trusted local restaurants for authentic and hygienic meals. Let us know if you have dietary restrictions in advance.
In Nepal, the currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR), while in Tibet, you’ll need Chinese Yuan (CNY). You can exchange foreign currency or use ATMs in Kathmandu and Lhasa. It’s advisable to carry enough cash for rural areas like Gyantse and Xigatse, where card facilities may be limited. Credit cards are accepted at high-end hotels and some restaurants. Asiana Treks and Tours recommends exchanging some currency in Kathmandu before heading to Tibet for convenience.
Safety is a top priority for Asiana Treks and Tours. In case of medical emergencies, our guides assist in contacting local hospitals or arranging transport back to a major city. In Tibet, the nearest hospitals are in Lhasa and Xigatse. All guides carry mobile phones, and we provide 24/7 support from our Kathmandu office. In serious cases, evacuation can be arranged through your travel insurance. We advise all clients to have proper medical coverage that includes high-altitude evacuation.
Photography is allowed at most heritage sites, but some temples, monasteries, and museums may prohibit photos inside sacred areas. Your guide will inform you of restrictions at each location. In places like Jokhang Temple and Potala Palace, photography is strictly controlled. Always ask for permission before photographing monks or locals. Drones are not permitted in Tibet without prior approval. Asiana Treks and Tours encourages respectful photography that honors local culture and customs.
You should carry your passport, Tibet Travel Permit, Group Visa, travel insurance policy, and a few passport-sized photographs. Asiana Treks and Tours will handle the required permits and provide you with copies before the Tibet portion of the tour. Keep digital and physical copies of important documents. It’s also useful to have emergency contact numbers, your hotel information, and your tour voucher. We recommend