A 7-Day Overland Tibetan Adventure from Lhasa to Kathmandu
Imagine spending a week traversing the roof of the world, soaking in iconic monasteries, stunning mountain vistas, and the legendary Everest. This 7 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Small Group Tibet Tour is designed for travelers who want a comprehensive, yet manageable way to experience Tibet’s highlights without the hassle of complicated logistics. Priced at $1,089 per person, it’s a surprisingly good deal given what’s included: hotel stays, permit handling, guided visits, and all entry fees.
What we love about this trip is how personal and well-organized it feels—thanks to small group sizes of just 12 people—and how knowledgeable guides bring Tibetan culture and history to life. Plus, the chance to stand at Everest Base Camp and witness the sunrise over the world’s highest peak is truly unforgettable.
On the flip side, the tour involves quite a bit of driving—roughly 73 days in advance bookings reflect its popularity—so if long bus rides aren’t your thing, it’s worth considering. But if you’re after an authentic, well-paced journey with a good balance of culture, nature, and adventure, this tour hits the sweet spot for most travelers.
This tour suits those who are curious about Tibet, eager to see Everest, and comfortable with group travel. Especially if you want a stress-free way to handle permits and logistics, and enjoy small group intimacy, this trip will likely match your travel style.
Key Points
- All-in-one planning: Tibet permits, visas, and entry tickets are handled, saving you time and stress.
- Small group appeal: With just 12 travelers, expect a more personal experience and opportunities to connect.
- Authentic visits: Iconic monasteries like Potala, Jokhang, Drepung, and Sera are included, offering genuine insights into Tibetan spirituality.
- Spectacular scenery: From Yamdrok Lake to Everest Base Camp, you’ll witness some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the Himalayas.
- Expert guides: Locally-based guides are praised for their knowledge, enriching the experience.
- Comfort and safety: Transportation in modern vans, oxygen tanks on board, and 3-star hotels ensure a comfortable journey.
Planning more time in Tibet? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Route and What You’ll Experience
Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization in Lhasa
Once you land or arrive by train in Lhasa, the tour begins with a transfer to your hotel—the GangGyan Lhasa Hotel or similar. The focus here is on rest and adjustment to the high altitude, which is wise, especially if you’re new to such elevations.
In the evening, a stroll to the nearby Potala Square offers your first glimpses of the Potala Palace illuminated against the night sky. It’s a gentle introduction—taking it slow is crucial to prevent altitude sickness and to savor your initial impressions of this mystical city.
Day 2: Lhasa’s Monastic Wonders
The day kicks off with a visit to the Potala Palace—the iconic winter residence of the Dalai Lama. While the interior is vast, you’ll want to focus on key areas: the gilded burial stupas of past Dalai Lamas and the meditation caves. The palace’s architecture and history are impressive, though the crowds and ticket queues can be a challenge (tickets not included).
Next, after a local lunch, the tour visits Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s spiritual heart. Here, you’ll see pilgrims prostrating, incense filling the air, and the famed statue of Buddha Sakyamuni. A walk around Barkhor Street completes the day—an ancient market packed with stalls selling everything from yak wool to prayer wheels, plus chances to sip Tibetan butter tea with locals.
Travelers consistently rave about guides like Tserina, who bring Tibetan culture to life with warmth and insight. One reviewer mentions, “Thanks to our guide, Tibet became a living, breathing place—not just a sightseeing list.”
Day 3: Monastic Heritage and Rural Life
The morning features Drepung Monastery, founded in the 11th century and once the largest monastery in Tibet. It’s perched on a hillside, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into monastic life. Inside, you’ll see scriptures and the famous debates of monks.
In the afternoon, instead of Drepung, the itinerary suggests a visit to Dadong Village, a rural settlement offering a taste of local Tibetan life. You’ll get to walk through traditional villages, visit a Tibetan family, and enjoy a home-cooked meal. The reviews highlight how these genuine encounters make the trip memorable.
Day 4: Spectacular Mountain and Lake Views
Driving west from Lhasa, the landscape transforms as you cross the Gampala Pass—at 4790 meters—where you’ll be treated to the sight of Yamdrok Yumtso Lake. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the lake’s blue waters are breathtaking.
Next, you’ll pass Karo La Glacier and Manak Dam Lake, with prayer flags fluttering at the mountain pass. Arriving in Gyantse, you’ll visit the Pelkor Chode Monastery and the Gyantse Kumbum, known for its stunning murals and intricate architecture.
Finally, the day ends in Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, offering a mix of modern and traditional sights, like the local barley mill and landscape views. Several reviewers appreciated the scenic drives, noting: “The landscapes were incredible, and the monasteries were impressive.”
Day 5: Shigatse and Everest Approaching
The morning’s highlight is the Tashilunpo Monastery, home of the Panchan Lama. Its vast complex and the giant statue of Maitreya Buddha are striking. Afterward, you’ll leave Shigatse and head toward the mountainous Tsola Pass.
The drive continues as you ascend to the Gawula Pass (5198 meters), where panoramic views of the Himalayas unfold. From here, it’s a short drive to Lhatse, for a quick lunch break before heading to Everest Base Camp (5200 meters). The road zigzags through stunning mountain scenery, and if the weather cooperates, you’ll see the golden glow of Everest at sunset.
Day 6: The Majesty of Everest
The morning begins with a possible sunrise over Everest—weather permitting—before visiting the Rongbuk Monastery, the highest in the world. Monks and nuns live and pray here amid spectacular mountain vistas.
The highlight is the Everest Base Camp, where you can stand close enough to feel its power. Photos of the mountain’s summit are common here, and many travelers comment on how surreal the experience is. After taking in the views, the group departs for the Kyirong border, passing Pekutso Lake and other scenic spots, with views of Shishapangma.
Day 7: Farewell and Exit
Your Tibetan adventure concludes at the Kyirong border. Guides assist with border formalities, and from here, travelers can opt for a jeep transfer to Kathmandu for an additional fee of $60.
The tour ends at the border, with goodbyes to your guides and fellow travelers, leaving you with memories—and photos—that will last a lifetime.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Authentic Monastery Visits: From Potala to Sera, the tour immerses you in Tibetan spiritual life, thanks to guides who are well-versed and engaging. Multiple reviews praise the guides, often mentioning how their local knowledge enhanced the experience.
Stunning Mountain and Lake Views: The route over the Gampala Pass and the visit to Yamdrok Lake are picture-perfect moments. Travelers frequently mention the breathtaking scenery and how it surpasses expectations.
Seamless Logistics: The tour company handles the complicated permits, visas, and tickets, meaning less stress for travelers. We appreciate this because it allows you to focus on the experience rather than paperwork.
Small Group Atmosphere: With only 12 travelers, you’ll experience a more personalized and flexible journey. Several reviews mention how this makes sharing the trip more enjoyable and intimate.
Comfort and Safety: Modern van transportation, oxygen tanks, and comfortable hotels make the long drives manageable and safe, which travelers valued highly, especially at high altitudes.
Possible Considerations
Long days on the bus are unavoidable, and some travelers note the driving time—up to several hours each day—can be tiring, especially in the high-altitude terrain. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or dislike extensive road travel, this might be a drawback.
Also, the cost of the jeep transfer to Kathmandu is not included, so be prepared for an additional $60 if you choose that option. It’s worth noting that this is a small detail but good to plan for in advance.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This journey suits adventurous travelers eager for a comprehensive taste of Tibet’s monasteries, landscapes, and Everest. It’s particularly good for those who want a stress-free logistics experience, thanks to the permit handling and guided visits. The small-group size and knowledgeable guides make it ideal for culture enthusiasts and those who value authentic local insights.
If you’re comfortable with long travel days and want to maximize your exposure to Tibetan culture and Himalayan scenery, this tour offers an excellent balance of adventure, comfort, and meaningful encounters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tour suitable for travelers with altitude concerns?
Yes, the itinerary includes time to acclimatize in Lhasa and at key high-altitude sites like Everest Base Camp. However, travelers should be prepared for high elevations and listen to their bodies.
Are meals included in the tour?
The tour includes breakfasts and one welcome dinner, but other meals are not included. You may wish to budget for additional meals along the route.
What is the group size?
The tour operates with a small group of up to 12 travelers, offering a more personalized experience.
How is transportation arranged?
Travel is in comfortable vans or minibuses, with an experienced local driver. The vehicles are equipped with oxygen tanks for safety.
Does the tour include all entrance fees?
Yes, entrance tickets to all listed sites, including Everest Base Camp Echo bus and platform service fees, are included.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations closer to the start date may incur fees.
Can I arrange a transfer to Kathmandu after the tour?
Yes, for an additional $60, you can book a jeep transfer from Kyirong to Kathmandu.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable clothing for various weather conditions, sturdy shoes, your passport and China L visa, and any personal medications. The tour provides drinking water and oxygen tanks, but personal essentials are recommended.
Final Thoughts
This 7-day overland Tibet tour offers a well-rounded experience—from culturally significant monasteries to the awe-inspiring sights of Everest. The included permit handling, small group size, and knowledgeable guides make it a hassle-free way to explore Tibet’s highlights.
While the long drives might not suit everyone, the stunning landscapes, authentic cultural encounters, and professional organization justify the journey. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who crave deep immersion and adventure without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.
If you’re looking for a balanced, memorable, and well-organized Tibet experience, this tour is likely to meet your expectations and leave lasting impressions.