Tibet and Nepal Tour Packages: Himalayan Heights 12-Day Group Expedition

Highlights of the Trip

Embark on an extraordinary 12-day group tour to Tibet and Nepal, destinations where ancient traditions meet breath-taking landscapes. Explore Lhasa’s heritage with visits to Drepung Monastery, Norbulinka Palace, and more. This package trip to Nepal will take you through Polata Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhour market, offering insights into daily life. A free day in Lhasa allows personal exploration. A scenic drive to Gyantse via Yamdrok Tso and Karo La offers panoramic views. Visit Pelhor Choede and continue to Shigatse for Tashi Lumpo Monastery. Drive to Segar with a stop at Sakya Gompa and embark on a day excursion to Rombuk. Your journey culminates with a drive through Lower Kyirong, offering Everest views. Crossing into Nepal at Rasuwa, explore Patan’s cultural heritage.

This tour suits those intrigued by Tibetan and Nepalese culture, Buddhism, and the Himalayas. It promises an enriching experience blending history, spirituality, and stunning scenery in the mystical land of Tibet.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Lhasa

Guided Tour, including:

• Drepung Monastery: One of the largest monastic complexes globally, best known for its rich Tibetan Buddhist history, impressive architecture, and serene surroundings nestled against the Lhasa valley.
• Norbulingka (The Summer Palace): A serene retreat showcasing Tibetan architecture, vast gardens, and picturesque lakes, serving as a historical residence for Dalai Lamas and reflecting Tibetan cultural and artistic traditions.
• Sera Monastery: Renowned for its vibrant debates among monks, distinctive Tibetan architecture, and the sacred ambience of its assembly halls, providing a significant glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist traditions.

Walking Tour, visiting:

• The Potala Palace: An iconic symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and culture, with its grandeur, historic significance, and breathtaking views from the top of Marpo Ri Hill.
• Jokhang Temple: A sacred pilgrimage site, showcasing unique Tibetan architecture and housing the revered Jowo Shakyamuni statue, drawing worshippers and visitors alike to its spiritual ambiance.

Gyantse

• Lake Yamdrok Tso: A stunning turquoise lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offering breath-taking views and tranquil atmosphere in the Tibetan plateau.
• Dzong Hilltop Fortress: Take the short climb to this historic fortress with panoramic views, featuring a unique blend of Tibetan and Bhutanese architectural elements, reflecting the region’s cultural and military history.
• Pelkhor Choede Monastery: A harmonious blend of Tibetan, Nepali, and Indian architecture, renowned for its Kumbum Stupa, adorned with intricate murals and sculptures, offering a spiritual and artistic marvel in the heart of Gyantse.

Shigatse

• Tashilumpo Monastery: An expansive complex that serves as the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, known for its grand Maitreya Buddha statue and intricate chapels, embodying Tibetan Buddhist spirituality and heritage.

Shegar

• Rongbuk Monastery Day Tour: A day tour to Rongbuk Monastery offers awe-inspiring views of Mount Everest, allowing visitors to witness the world’s highest peak against the backdrop of the Himalayan landscape.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Explore Norbulingka Institute: Participate in traditional Tibetan arts and crafts workshops at the Norbulinga Institute in Lhasa.

Attend a Tibetan Opera Show: Experience the vibrant Tibetan culture through a traditional opera performance.

Yamdrok Lake Cycling: Go on a cycling adventure around the scenic Yamdrok Lake, enjoying the breathtaking landscapes.

Mountaineering in the Himalayas: For seasoned adventurers, explore Himalayan peaks from Shigatse, offering challenging mountaineering opportunities.

Stargazing at Shegar: With minimal light pollution, Shegar offers excellent opportunities for stargazing.

Mountain Biking in the Kathmandu Valley: Explore the cultural and historical sites of the Kathmandu Valley on an exhilarating mountain biking adventure.

Bungee Jumping in The Last Resort: For adrenaline enthusiasts, experience one of the world’s highest bungee jumps near Patan.

White Water Rafting on the Trishuli River: The Trishuli River is renowned for its white-water rafting adventures, and flows through various scenic regions in Nepal, providing an exhilarating experience for adventure enthusiasts.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Tibet and Nepal

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region. In Lhasa, try Tsampa, a staple Tibetan dish made from roasted barley flour, often mixed with butter tea; Thenthuk, hand-pulled noodle soup with vegetables, meat, and Tibetan herbs, and Yak Butter Tea, a traditional Tibetan beverage made with tea leaves, yak butter, and salt. In Gyantse, try Gyantse-style Thukpa, a variation of the Tibetan noodle soup, usually with hearty ingredients like yak meat; Yak Jerky, dried and seasoned yak meat, a local speciality with a unique taste, and Tingmo, steamed Tibetan bread, often served with meat or vegetable stews. In Shigatse try Shigatse Barley Beer, a local barley beer that reflects the region’s traditional brewing techniques, and Chang, a Tibetan alcoholic beverage often made from barley or millet. In Shegar, try Yak Momos, steamed dumplings filled with yak meat and local spices; Tibetan Butter Cake, a sweet delicacy made with yak butter, sugar, and flour, and Yak Milk Cheese, a common dairy product in the region. In Patan, sample Newari Cuisine, such as Bara (fried lentil patties), Yomari (sweet, steamed dumplings), and Kwati (mixed bean soup. Try Laphing, a cold mung bean noodle dish with spicy sauce, and Yomari, a sweet Newari delicacy made of rice flour dough filled with jaggery and sesame seeds.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Boating on Yamdrok Lake: Enjoy a serene boat ride on the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake, surrounded by majestic mountains.

Boating on Manak Dam: Experience boating on the tranquil waters of Manuk Dam, providing scenic views of Gyantse and its surroundings.

Yarlung Tsangpo River Rafting: Indulge in an exhilarating river rafting experience on the Yarlung Tsangpo River.

Yarlung Tsangpo River Cruise: Explore the Yarlung Tsangpo River on a cruise, offering a unique perspective of Tibetan landscapes.

Rongbuk Glacier Lake Cruise: Weather-permitting, embark on a cruise of boat ride on one of the glacial lakes near Shegar, offering stunning views of the surrounding Himalayas.

Boating on Phewa Lake: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Phewa Lake in Pokhara, with the backdrop of the Annupurna mountain range.

Accommodation of this Tour

Lhasa: Hotel Cool Yak (or similar)

Gyantse: Yuthuo Hotel (or similar)

Shigatse: S Lhandup Hotel (or similar)

Shegar: Grand Hotel (or similar)

Lower Kyirong: Saisi Hotel (or similar)

Trishuli: Saisi Hotel (or similar)

Patan: Traditional Stay (or similar)

Departure Dates 2024

13^TH & 27^TH APRIL

11^TH AND 25^TH MAY

15^TH JUNE

6^TH AND 20^TH JULY

10^TH AND 24^TH AUGUST

7^TH AND 21^ST SEPTEMBER

12^TH AND 26^TH OCTOBER

16^TH NOVEMBER

Explore our website to discover more of our Nepal tour packages and Nepal group tours, or get in touch today to discuss your dream Nepal itinerary.

Itinerary

Day 1: Lhasa Arrival, group meeting and welcome dinner

Today is the arrival day and a group meeting is the only activity planned. The appointed Guide will be welcoming all group members at the airport or train station and helping them check into their hotel in Lhasa. Once everyone has arrived, the Guide will be ready to start the first meeting, providing information about the trip, dos and don’ts, etc.

Accommodation: Hotel Yak or similar

✓ Dinner

Day 2: Visit to Drepung, see Nechung, Norbulinka, and Sera Monastery

Sightseeing Drepung Monastery

Explore Lhasa’s most notable sites with a guide and private transport. Visit Drepung Monastery, located 8 km west of Lhasa. Drepung, meaning rice-heap in Sanskrit, was established by Jamyang Choje in 1416 and derives its name from the Dhanyakataka stupa in South India, where the Buddha first taught the Kalachakra Tantra. Spanning an area of over 20,000 sqm, the monastery consists of the Tshomchen, the four main tratsangs, and the Ganden Potrang, each with its own residential units, Khangstens, and other buildings. A high ridge known as Gephel Utse overlooks the monastery. When it was founded, 2000 monks resided there, and by the time of the Fifth Dalai Lama (1617-82), there were 10,000. When visiting Drepung, pilgrims typically start from the parking lot near the entrance and move through the complex in a clockwise fashion before leaving.

Sightseeing at the Summer Palace

Norbulinka (or Treasure Garden), the summer palace of the Dalai Lamas, is a tranquil and stunning manor. It features an impressive array of high-altitude plant life, making it a favourite spot for summer picnics. Sightseeing Norbulinka is a must-do for any traveller.

Sightseeing Sera Monastery

Visiting the Sera Monastery is a must for anyone travelling to Tibet, as it is one of the six great Gelugpa monasteries (the other five being Drepung, Ganden, Tashilumpo, Labrang, and Kumbum). Located in Lhasa at the base of Phurpa Chok Ri mountain, Sera was founded in 1419 by Sakya Yeshe (1355-1435), a principal disciple of Tsong Khapa. Covering nearly 12 hectares, the complex is made up of the Tsokchen (Great Hall), three tratsangs, and 30 Khangstens. Khangstens are residential compounds with chapels reserved for monks from different areas of Tibet, while Tratsangs are colleges that offer specialized studies, headed by an abbot (Khenpo). At its peak, Sera boasted over 5,000 monks and novices. Despite the Cultural Revolution, the monastery’s principal buildings were inexplicably spared, making it one of the best-preserved monasteries in Tibet. When visiting the main chapels, pilgrims usually follow a clockwise route, starting from Sera Me, Ngagpa Tratsang, Sera Je, Hamdong Khangsten, Tsokchen, and ending at Tsong Khapa’s hermitage.

Accommodation: Hotel Yak or similar

Meals: None

Day 3: Walking tour of Potala, Jokhang, and Barkhor market, with guide

Potala Palace

The Potala Palace stands majestically over the city of Lhasa, serving as a lasting symbol of Tibet. Little remains of the original structure constructed by Songtsen Gampo, apart from its foundations. As one ascends the grand staircase, one will come across audience halls and the living quarters of the Dalai Lamas, along with some remarkable artifacts, stupas, three-dimensional mandalas, and many statues. The Great 5th Dalai Lama started to build the White Palace in 1645, and it was completed 8 years later using 7000 workers and 1500 artisans, after Lhasa had been reinstated as the capital of Tibet.

Jokhang Temple

The Jokhang Temple is a 1300-year-old building at the centre of the Barkhor Market and is noted for its golden roof. It is one of the most sacred and active Tibetan temples, built by Bhrikuti, the Nepalese bride of King Songtsen Gampo. The site was chosen by his other wife, Wenchang, a princess from the Tang Dynasty of China, as it was believed to be a powerful geomantic location in Tibet. The Barkhor Street in Lhasa City’s old district is renowned for its unique architectural style and pure city life pattern. It is not only a sacred pilgrimage path for worshippers to perform the kora but has also gained fame for its array of Tibetan delicacies and products. Numerous traders and peddlers visit the street each day to set up their stalls and sell handmade goods, and many stores with Tibetan characteristics open for business. As a result, Barkhor Street has become widely known as the liveliest Barkhor Bazaar in Lhasa and even Tibet, with its special circular street and public square.

Accommodation: Hotel Yak or similar

Meals: None

Day 4: Free day to explore Lhasa (no guide services on this day)

Today is a free day in Lhasa; however, due to the unpredictable nature of Tibet’s government policies, it is essential to check with your guide regarding the possibility of sightseeing. If you wish to explore other attractions, you should consult your guide.

Accommodation: Hotel Yak or similar

Meals: None

Day 5: Drive to Gyantse via Yamdrok Tso and Karo La

On today’s 254 km drive from Lhasa, you will be treated to stunning views of Lake Yamdrok Tso as you cross the Khamba La and Karo La passes. Gyantse (3950m) was once a major trading town between Sikkim, Bhutan and Tibet and still has a unique charm of old Tibet. Exploring its backstreets, you will feel like you’ve been transported back in time. You can also climb up to the impressive hilltop fortress (dzong) where locals resisted the invasion of the British army for almost six months in 1904.

Accommodation: Yuthuo Hotel or similar

Meals: None

Day 6: Visit Pelkhor Choede. Travel to Shigatse, visit Tashi Lumpo Monastery

Pelkhor Choede

In the morning, pay a visit to Pelkhor Choede Monastery, the main temple of which was built between 1418-1425 by the prince of Gyantse. It was home to an eclectic academy of 16 dralsang, comprising of Sakya, Butonpa, Geluk and Kagyu schools. All the dralsang buildings have been destroyed, however the main assembly hall, with its remarkable 15th century images and murals, is still preserved. The top chamber is also decorated with incredible mandalas in the Sakya tradition. Afterwards, you can drive to Shigatse, Tibet’s second largest city, located at the confluence of the Nyangchu and Brahmaputra Rivers.

Tashilumpo Monastery

When in Shigatse, take a tour of the Tashilumpo Monastery. Established in 1447 by a disciple of Tsongkhapa, this monastery was the birthplace of the first Dalai Lama.

Accommodation: S. Lhandup Hotel or similar

Meals: None

Day 7: Drive to Shegar via Sakya Gompa

On your way to Shegar, you pass through Sakya Town. Sakya is renowned for being the primary location of the Sakya School, having a major influence on the political and religious history of Tibet in the 13th and 14th centuries. Its unique architecture and colouring make it easily distinguishable. The name ‘Sakya’ is derived from the white patch on the hillside opposite the main temple complex, which translates to ‘light coloured earth’.

Accommodation: Grand Hotel or similar

Meals: None

Day 8: Day excursion to Rombuk

On today’s breathtaking adventure, take the Friendship Highway to Qomolangma National Park and reach the Rombuk valley by the afternoon for a stunning look at Mt. Everest. In the local language, Qomolangma means ‘Queen of the mountain range’. The most spectacular views can be seen from the Rombuk Gompa, a small Tibetan monastery, located at 5100 m. When you’ve finished exploring Rombuk, make your way back to Shegar for an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Grand Hotel or similar

Meals: None

Day 9: Drive to Lower Kyirong via Paiko Tso

Waking up in the morning to the sight of Mt. Everest is an unbeatable and amazing experience. Driving to Lower Kyirong, 257 km away and taking 6-7 hours, you will pass Paiko Tso Lake in the Tibetan plateau and be surrounded by the majestic views of Mt. Sishapangma and Chyo Yu. All of this, with the North Face of Mount Everest (8848.86m) or Mount Qomolangma in Tibetan right in front of you.

Accommodation: Saisi Hotel or similar

Meals: None

Day 10: Drive to Trishuli, crossing the border at Rasuwa

Today you will embark on your drive to the Nepal-Tibet border. Kyirong or Gyirong Port (Rasuwa Port on the Nepal side) is situated around 160 km from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, and approximately 820 km from Lhasa. Upon your arrival at the border, you will cross the bridge linking Nepal and Tibet. Your local guide will greet you at the Kyirong border and help you with the immigration procedures on the Nepal side. Afterwards, you will proceed to Trishuli town to rest for the night. The road connecting the border and Trishuli is an adventurous trip, so be prepared for a bumpy ride!

Accommodation: Standard Hotel or similar

Meals: None

Day 11: Drive to Patan

Begin your journey today as you drive along Prithivi Highway towards the historic city of Patan. The road is lined with lush green forest and the Trishuli river, and the curvy roads will take you to this diverse city. Once you arrive, you will be amazed by the incredible architecture, exquisite wood carvings, and metal craft which demonstrate the skills of Newar artisans from centuries ago.

Accommodation: Traditional Stay or similar

Meals: None

Day 12: End of tour

Today marks the end of your amazing journey. It’s time to check out of the hotel and continue your way (depending on the services you have booked).

Accommodation: N/A

Meals: None

ADDITIONAL ENTRANCE FEES IN TIBET

The additional entrance fees in Tibet amounts to approximate CNY 705 per person (These are the tentative rates and may vary at the time of visit)

Drepung and Nechung Monastery – 60 CNY

Summer Palace, Norbulinkha 60 CNY

Sera Monastery – 50 CNY

Potala Palace – 200 CNY

Jokhang Temple – 85 CNY

Pelkor Chode Monastery – 60 CNY

Tashilumpo Monastery – 100 CNY

Sakya Monastery – 60 CNY

Rombuk gompa – 30 CN

Explore our website to discover more of our Nepal tour packages and Nepal group tours, or get in touch today to discuss your dream Nepal itinerary.

Price

Guide price per person (based on group on a twin sharing basis)

£1451

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa, group meeting, and welcome dinner. Your guide will meet you at the airport or train station and assist with hotel check-in.

Day 2: Visit Drepung Monastery, Norbulinka Summer Palace, and Sera Monastery with a guide.

Day 3: Explore the iconic Potala Palace and sacred Jokhang Temple, followed by a stroll in Barkhor Market.

Day 4: Explore Lhasa at your leisure. Check with your guide for sightseeing options.

Day 5: Drive to Gyantse via Yamdrok Tso and Karo La Pass, enjoying scenic views along the way.

Day 6: Visit Pelkhor Choede Monastery in Gyantse and continue to Shigatse to explore Tashi Lumpo Monastery.

Day 7: Drive to Shegar, passing through Sakya Town known for its Sakya School influence.

Day 8: Excursion to Rombuk Valley for stunning views of Mt. Everest from Rombuk Gompa.

Day 9: Drive to Lower Kyirong, passing Paiko Tso Lake and enjoying views of Mt. Everest.

Day 10: Cross the Nepal-Tibet border at Rasuwa and drive to Trishuli town.

Day 11: Drive along Prithivi Highway to Patan and explore the historic city’s architecture and craftsmanship.

Day 12: Check out of the hotel and depart for your onward journey.

FAQs

1. What are the main highlights of the Lhasa city tour?
   • The tour includes visits to iconic landmarks such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Market, Drepung Monastery, Norbulinka Summer Palace, and Sera Monastery.
2. What is the accommodation like during the tour?
   • Accommodations are provided in comfortable hotels or similar establishments, ensuring a pleasant stay throughout the journey.
3. Are meals included in the tour package?
   • Yes, most meals are included in the tour package, offering a taste of local cuisine at various stops along the itinerary.
4. What transportation options are available during the tour?
   • Private transport is arranged for sightseeing and transfers between destinations, ensuring convenience and comfort during travel.
5. Are there any physical activities involved in the tour?
   • Some sightseeing activities may involve walking or hiking, particularly during visits to monasteries and scenic spots. However, the tour is designed to accommodate participants of varying fitness levels.
6. What should I pack for the tour?
   • It’s recommended to pack comfortable clothing suitable for both sightseeing and leisure, as well as essentials such as sunscreen, a hat, sturdy walking shoes, and any necessary medications.
7. Is there free time for exploration during the tour?
   • Yes, the itinerary includes free time in Lhasa for independent exploration, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the local culture and customs at their own pace.