13 Days Tibet Overland Adventure Group Tour with Mount Kailash & EBC

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Tour Code: AOT-TGT-F2
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Travel Route: Lhasa - Shigatse - EBC - Saga - Darchen - Mount Kailash - Zanda - Darchen - Saga - Gyirong Border
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Features: World Heritages, Architectures, Religious Sites, Nature Wonders, Lakes, Holy Mountains, Adventure
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Tour Type: Small Group of maximum 15 travelers, guaranteed departures;
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Guide & Driver: English-speaking guide, experienced driver with regular tourist vehicle
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Accommodation: 12 nights
- Itinerary
- Dates & Price
- Accommodation
- Trip Notes
- Reviews
Travel from the holy city of Tibet to the Gyirong Border, the gateway to Nepal! Conquer breathtaking landscapes, ancient wonders, and spiritual highs on this unforgettable 13-day adventure through Tibet's soul in a small group!
Your group tour begins in Lhasa, the heart of Tibetan Buddhism, where you'll be awestruck by the iconic Potala Palace and the vibrant Jokhang Temple. Breathe in the thin air as you explore Barkhor Street, lined with prayer flags and devout pilgrims. Next, witness the turquoise wonder of Yamdrok Lake, nestled amidst snow-capped peaks like a celestial jewel. Brace yourself for the raw power of nature at Everest Base Camp, where the "Roof of the World" grazes the clouds. Embark on the legendary 3-day kora around Mount Kailash, a sacred pilgrimage for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bön followers. Walk in the footsteps of countless pilgrims, feeling the weight of history and spirituality with every step. Your adventure culminates in Gyirong, a charming border town where you bid farewell to Tibet and cross into Nepal.
This 13-day small-group tour guarantees a personalized experience, and with stable departures, you can book your dream trip with confidence. Don't miss this chance to grab an exceptional deal on an extraordinary overland adventure!
Itinerary Day by Day
Altitude: 3650m | Distance: 60km, about 1.5 hours' drive
Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region! Upon your arrival at the airport in Lhasa, the tour guide and driver will meet you at the exit, and then escort you to the hotel in downtown Lhasa (60km, about 1.5 hours’ drive) . You can have a good rest to get used to the altitude (3,650m) in your hotel and get ready to explore Lhasa with your guide the next day.
Arrival Ideas:
Lhasa is located in the southern part of the Tibetan Plateau and southwestern China. Traveling to Tibet is convenient by air, railway, or road. There are five airports in Tibet, with Lhasa Gonggar Airport being the most popular for flights from Chengdu (which is also popular), Chongqing, Xian, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Kunming, Xining, Shangri-La, and other cities. One international airline even connects Lhasa and Kathmandu. Moreover, travelers can take the train to Lhasa from Xining (21 hours, the starting point of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway), Lanzhou (24.5 hours), Chongqing (35.5 hours), Chengdu (36.5 hours), Xian (31 hours), Beijing (40.5 hours), Shanghai (47 hours), Guangzhou (52.5 hours), Shigatse (2.5 hours), Nyingzhi (4 hours), and other cities.
Kind Reminds:
1.It is good to avoid altitude sickness by slowing down, keeping warm, drinking water frequently, avoiding showers for the first one or two days, taking it easy, and sleeping well.
2.You should always follow your doctor's advice regarding altitude based on your health condition.
3.Be sure to let your guide or the hotel staff know whenever you feel unwell or need help. The people there are always willing to help and are good at dealing with altitude sickness.


Attractions
have a good rest to get used to the altitude
Transportation
arrive in Lhasa by yourself; pick-up service while in Lhasa
Dining
None
Accommodation
3-star hotel in downtown Lhasa
Today, have fun in the Lhasa Traditional Handicraft Art Center for a close touch of Tibetan culture, and you will experience Tibetan Buddhism by witnessing the Monks' Debating in Sera Monastery.
In the morning, enjoy the experience in the Lhasa Traditional Handicraft Art Center, fully immerse yourself by making Tibetan incense, Tibetan calligraphy, and the secrets of block printing. Tibetan incense is typically burned as an offering during religious ceremonies and rituals in Tibetan Buddhism. The ingredients used for Tibetan incense usually include juniper, sandalwood, cedarwood, cinnamon, cloves, and various medicinal herbs. Besides learning how to make Tibetan incense, you can also participate in writing your own name in the Tibetan Language with the help of a local teacher, and engraving and printing it out. Handmade Tibetan incense and printed text can be taken home as a souvenir of the Tibetan cultural experience. This evening, you will enjoy dinner with the group, featuring Tibetan cuisine.
In the afternoon, drive approximately 7km (about 20 minutes) to visit Sera Monastery, which is one of the three great Gelug university monasteries of Tibet. It offers the opportunity to experience Tibetan Buddhism up close. The highlight of Sera Monastery is watching the monks' debate, which takes place around 15:00-17:00 (except on Sundays). The debate is an interesting form of exchange, where one monk acts as the questioner, standing while the answerer or group of answerers sit. The standing monk asks questions and slaps his palms and stomps, each action having a special meaning, such as activating wisdom, and are not meant to be aggressive. You will also have the chance to attend prayer ceremonies, visit meditation halls, and learn about the monastic way of life. It is a must-visit destination to gain insight into the beliefs and practices of Tibetan Buddhism.




Attractions
2 iconic sites
Transportation
coach
Dining
Breakfast
Accommodation
3-star hotel in downtown Lhasa
Today, it is the time to explore Lhasa by visiting the world-famous Potala Palace, a World Heritage site and the picture behind the 50 RMB. And then, you will explore Lhasa by visiting Jokhang Temple, a world cultural heritage site renowned for its brilliant architecture, culture, art, and history. Finally, you can stroll through the famous Barkhor Street with locals and learn more about the daily kora life of Tibetans.
In the morning, you can walk up to the Potala Palace to explore. Not only is it the landmark of Tibet, but it is also the traditional residence and winter palace of the Dalai Lama (1649-1959). After climbing 365 steps from the gate of the Potala Palace to reach the Red Palace, you will arrive at the highest palace in the world at an altitude of 3,700m, where you can enjoy an excellent panoramic view of Lhasa city. As you explore the principal halls, chapels, and shrines of past Dalai Lamas in the Red Palace, you will be amazed and moved by its remarkable paintings, gorgeous jeweled works, skilled carving, colorful ornamentation, and the mystery stories behind the treasures. Inside the Potala Palace, you will meet many Tibetan pilgrims who come from afar to pray at this sacred site, making it a lifetime destination for them. You can also ask your guide to provide more stories about Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd king of Tibet, who first built the Potala Palace in the 7th century for his marriage to Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty. (Please note that the visit order may be adjusted based on the visiting time specified on your Potala Palace ticket. All visitors are required to visit the palace with a tour group and remain inside for one hour. Please be advised that photography is prohibited inside the palace.)
Located in the heart of Lhasa for over 1300 years, the Jokhang Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over the world. Famed as the spiritual center of Tibet, it is said that the Jokhang Monastery was built for King Songtsen Gampo's two brides: Chinese Princess Wencheng and Nepalese Princess Bhrikuti. "Jokhang" means "House of Buddha", and it houses a life-size statue of the 12-year-old Sakyamuni, which is considered a treasure of the Buddhist world. This is why Buddhist pilgrims consider it the holiest destination. The Jakhong temple is also renowned for its beautiful architecture. You can admire the intricate carvings, colorful murals, ornate decorations, and details of the building, which is a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. Time seems to stand still as you watch people pray in front of the temple during the day and night. (Please note that the visit order may be adjusted based on the reservation of your Jokhang Temple Ticket Reservation.)
Afterward, take a walk on busy Barkhor Street near the Jokhang Monastery, which was a place for Buddhists to do a kora (pilgrim circuit) in ancient times. Nowadays, it has become a thriving local market where you can drink a pot of yak butter tea, dress in Tibetan clothes for photos, and pick up some local Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian handicrafts and souvenirs.
In the evening, enjoy a group dinner featuring delicious Tibetan cuisine, specially offered by AOT team.




Attractions
3 iconic sites
Transportation
coach
Dining
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
3-star hotel in downtown Lhasa
Altitude: 3850m | Distance: 380km, about 7 hours’ drive
On this day, drive about 8 to 9 hours (340km) from Lhasa to Shigatse, with a visit to two amazing natural landscapes - Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier - on the way.
In the morning, after about 3 to 4 hours of driving (200km), make sure to have your camera ready. When you reach Kampala Pass (4,797 meters), you'll have a breathtaking view of Yamdrok Lake, a freshwater lake down below, as well as spectacular views of the holy Mt. Nyenchen Khangsar in the distance. It is one of the four largest sacred lakes in Tibet, along with Lhamo Latso Lake, Manasarovar Lake, and Namtso Lake. Yamdrok Lake offers stunning views of the Tibetan plateau and is said to be able to help Tibetans find the reincarnated soul of the Dalai Lama. Moreover, you may see dressed-up Tibetan mastiffs, dogs, goats, and yaks there. It is optional for you to pay 5-10 yuan to pose with and take photos of them; for local Tibetans, it's a way to earn extra income for their families.
In the afternoon, drive about 1.5 hours (70km) to visit one of the most beautiful glaciers in Tibet - Karola Glacier, the filming location of the movie "Red Valley" (Hong He Gu). As one of Tibet's three major continental glaciers, backed by the southern slope of Naiqin Kangsang Peak (7,191 meters), one of the four highest peaks in Tibet, this white glacier is also the source of the eastern part of the Nianchu River. The Karola Glacier (5,012m) is only 300 meters away from the highway connecting Lhasa to Gyantse town, and you can view it right from your vehicle. You can also easily walk to the foot of the charming glacier, which has a shape like a frozen waterfall right above the road and you. Besides the fantastic hike to the Karola Glacier, on the opposite side of the road, you can appreciate the beautiful snow-capped mountain of Mt Kalurong.
Notes for visiting Karola Glacier:
1. The altitude at the glacier scenic spot is about 5,012m, so be sure to slow down to avoid altitude sickness.
2. The public toilet at the glacier is very basic.
3. Local people may ask you to take photos with them for a fee. Be sure to ask before taking photos to avoid potential issues.
After that, drive to Gyantse County for a look at the Gyantse Kumbum sitting inside the Pelkor Chode Monastery. Marvel at the 32-meter structure adorned with intricate carvings, sculptures, and frescoes and take a look at the stupa inside. Later, continue your driving (97km, 2 hours) to your hotel in Shigatse, the nearest town on the Friendship Highway between Tibet and Nepal. Have a good rest and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to EBC the next day.




Attractions
3 iconic sites
Transportation
coach
Dining
Breakfast
Accommodation
Shigatse
Altitude: 5100m | Distance: 340km, about 7 hours’ drive
After breakfast, drive about 6.5 hours (330km) to the peak of the world - Mount Everest, while stopping by the Rongbuk Monastery - the world’s highest altitude monastery, before spending the night at the Everest Base Camp (EBC).
Departing from Shigatse, after about 4.5 hours of driving (240km), you’ll get your first glimpse of Mt. Everest from the Gyawu La Pass (5,200m, Gyatso La Pass), between Lhatse and Shelkar. In addition to Mt. Everest, you’ll be amazed by the winding road that seems to go on forever. Along the way, you may see local people biking or hiking all the way to Everest Base Camp. For them reaching the base of the world's highest mountain is a must-do goal or holy belief that is worth the effort.
After enjoying the beautiful and unique scenery on the pass, including incredibly snow-capped mountain ranges, blue skies, floating high clouds, and endless grasslands, it is time to head to Rongbuk Monastery (about 3.5 hours,122km) for the first good view of Mt. Everest. At an altitude of 5,154m, Rongbuk Monastery is the world’s highest monastery, a must-visit for spiritual travelers, and is also photo-worthy. It used to be an area of meditation huts, and you can find hermitage meditation caves with a history of over 400 years, dotting the cliff walls all around the monastery and the valley. Along with brilliant Mt. Everest views, at Rongbuk Monastery, you will be touched by the breathtaking scenery, such as large white chortens, piles of mani stones, colorful prayer flags, devout pilgrims passing by.
Notes:
1. Travelers can only go as far as the Rongbuk Temple area rather than a few kilometers farther as before. But it’s not a big difference in terms of viewing Mt. Everest.
2. Today’s food and lodging is very basic. Due to the high altitude, it is possible that you may experience some symptoms of altitude sickness. We recommend that you stay well hydrated, relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery to minimize your symptoms.




Attractions
3 iconic sites
Transportation
coach
Dining
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
basic hostel at the Everest Base Camp
Altitude: 4600m | Distance: 320km, about 7 hours’ drive
In the morning, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the unforgettable exciting moment of the beautiful sunrise over Mount Everest. The snow-capped mountain will be bathed in a warm golden light, creating a stunning contrast against the deep blue sky, providing a breathtaking natural sight.
After that, you and your group will leave Everest Base Camp and drive the old Tingri Road to Saga County. On the way, you will have the last chance to capture the breathtaking view of Mount Everest, the all-year-round snow-capped holy mountain shaped like a three-sided pyramid and feel the grandness of the highest point on earth before you head to next stop. Later, you will overlook the majestic and awe-inspiring Mount Shishapangma, about 120km from Mount Everest and located in the Himalayas near the Nepal-Tibet border. At an elevation of 8,027 meters, Mount Shishapangma is the 14th highest mountain in the world and the only 8,000-meter peak that lies entirely within Tibet. The mountain is known for its striking appearance, with its towering peaks and massive glaciers. Surrounded by lush valleys and beautiful grasslands, you can have enjoy the stunning view of the towering peaks fascinating scenery around.
The main road passes through the desolate plains of Digur Tang, with its enormous sand dunes contrasting with the neighboring snow peaks of Shishapangma and Langtang to the south. As we leave the Bum-chu basin, you will descend into the relatively lower elevations of the beautiful turquoise Pelkhu-tso (elevation 4590 meters), a cobalt blue lake and the largest lake in Shigatse. Mount Shishabangma is the lucky holy mountain and while Pelkhu-tso Lake is the holy lake like a shining emerald diamond quietly lying at the foot of the mountain, setting off the beauty of each other.
After visiting the beautiful lake, you’ll drive another 69 kilometers to Saga County and spend the night in the small town of Saga.
Road Condition: The road condition get rougher from the old Tingri Road as it runs parallel to the to the Himalayan mountain ranges and the Nepalese sides known as the Anapurna Ranges.




Attractions
2 sites
Transportation
coach
Dining
None
Accommodation
Hotel in Saga
Altitude: 4600m | Distance: 500km, about 8 hours’ drive
On this seventh day, your guide and driver will take you from Saga County to Drongpa County, the origin place of the Brahmaputra River. You will make a stop in a small village along the main road that consists of only a few basic guesthouses, restaurants and a small monastery known as “Old Drongpa”. Pay a short visit to Dargyeling Monastery which sits on the hill-side about 1.5km off the main road. It is the best preserved monastery in the area and worth a visit for its fine views and unusual chortens. Around the monastery, you will be able to observe a pile of yak heads that are carved with “sutras” and “mantras”. New Drongpa is another small town with a few shops, hotels and restaurants located about 25 kilometers from Old Drongpa monastery. Later, you will continue on to the Baryang Township (elevation 4750 meters).
Before heading to Darchen, you and your group will make a stop to admire Lake Manasarovar, also known as the“invincible lake”. This lake is the most venerated of Tibet’s many lakes and one of its most beautiful. With its sapphire-blue waters, sandy shoreline, and snow-capped mountain backdrop create a stunning landscape that contrasts with the rugged terrain of Mount Kailash. Take a moment to appreciate the tranquil scenery and the reflections of the blue sky and white clouds on the lake's surface. You may also see pilgrims praying and bathing in the crystal-clear waters, adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the place.
Separated with the holy Lake Manasarovar by a road, you will arrive at Lhanag-tso Lake (altitude: 4575 meters). This lake is called “Ghost Lake” because it appears dark blue and is very salty and the water is prohibited to drink. There are no plants, no cattle or sheep around the lake and everything seems lifeless. Stand by the lake and listen to the roaring waves crashing against the shoreline.
After the exploration, it is time to drive to your final destination of the day - the small town of Darchen (altitude: 4574 meters), nestled below the foothills of Mount Kailash. Have a good sleep in Darchen.




Attractions
2 sites
Transportation
coach
Dining
None
Accommodation
hotel in Darchen
Altitude: 4600m | Trekking Distance: 22km, about 6 hours
Mount Kailash, at 6638 meters, dominates the region with the sheer awesomeness of its four-sided summit. It is a sacred mountain by four religions: Tibetan Buddhism, Hinduism, Bon and Jainism. In Tibetan Buddhism, it’s the home of the Buddha Demchok (representing nirvana). And in their scriptures, Mount Kailash is considered as the world’s center. Pilgrims from across Asia trek across the spectacular high-altitude landscape of remote Western Tibet to pay homage and walk around the sacred mountain. The whole trekking journey is 52-kilometer religious trek around Mount Kailash at Darchen and which is also the finishing point for the circumnavigation of the sacred mountain. The trekking takes about 3 days.
Suggested Trekking Route on Day One: Darchen to Dira-puk Monastery
Start your trekking in the town of Darchen. From there, follow the kora path westward across the Barkha Plain. Then pass Tarboche, which is one of the most significant sites for Tibet's most important festival, Saga Dawa. During Saga Dawa, hundreds of pilgrims gather to watch the annual raising of the flagpole. Just west of Tarboche is the “two-legged” Chorten Kangnyi. It is an auspicious act for pilgrims to walk through the small chorten’s archway. Later, you will hike to Chuku Monastery perched high above the valley floor on the hillside to the west. This monastery belongs to the Sakya sect of Tibetan Buddhism and you can enjoy its ornate interior murals and statues. From the Chuku bridge there are alternative trails along the east and west banks of the river. Either way it’s about three hours to Dira-puk Monastery. We recommend you to hike along the eastern pilgrim route. Lastly, you arrive at Dira-puk Monastery (elevation 4920 meters), sitting in a superb location on the hillside north of the Lha-chu across from the Shishapangma Guesthouse. From here, you can appreciate the astonishing north face of Mount Kailash, which from this angle appears as a massive, jet-black slab of granite ornamented with alabaster-white strips of snow. Dira-puk Monastery belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. You will spend the night in a monastery’s guesthouse that offers the best accommodations in this area (although it is still very rustic.)
Travel Notes:
1. Local Tibetans around Mount Kailash provide services, such as horse or Yak riding, baggage carrying by yak or porter. The services are not included in the tour fee.
2. During the trekking, you will accommodate at Driapuk and Dzultripuk guesthouse or Tent (Multi-beds room). The accommodation is very basic.




Attractions
4-6 sites along the route
Transportation
trekking
Dining
None
Accommodation
guesthouse at Driapuk Monastery
Altitude: 4600m | Trekking Distance: 20km, 7-8 Hours’ Trekking
On this day, start your second day of the circuit of Mount Kailash. Less than an hour along is the meadow at Jarok Donhang (5210m). Then, it will be the toughest as you will ascend 762 meters up to the Dolma-la Pass (5360m). This pass is a challenging but sacred part of the Mount Kailash kora. According to Tibetan Buddhist belief, ascending Dolma-la Pass removes the sins of one lifetime. Many pilgrims struggle with the high altitude and difficult terrain, but consider completing the pass to be a profound spiritual achievement. You will get an early start as the sun begins its rise over the mountain ridges above you. Once you have reached the peak of the Dolma-la Pass, you’ll stop for a rest and catch the opportunity to admire all of the fantastic scenery around us.
After that, you will begin your descent to the Lhachu Valley, which will take about one hour. After another short rest, you will trek on for another four hours to our final destination for the day. You will walk along the right side of the river to finally reach Dzultripuk (4810m), whose name means “miracle cave of Milarepa” in the local language. Dzultripuk belongs to the Sakya sect of Tibetan Buddhism and you can see its murals , statues and religious scriptures. Dzultripuk serves as an important rest stop for pilgrims circumambulating the sacred mountain. You will be glad that you got an early start to reach Dzultripuk so that you will get there before the other groups - there are a limited number of rooms available here. You will have time this evening for some rest and relaxation in the guesthouse as you prepare for the final stretch of the trek tomorrow.


Attractions
3 sites
Transportation
trekking
Dining
None
Accommodation
guesthouse at Dzultripuk
Altitude: 4600m | Trekking Distance: 14km, about 3-4 hours’ Trekking
Today is the third day of trekking and you will complete your trek around Mount Kailash. From Dzultripuk Monastery the trail follows the river closely for an hour or so then climbs above the river and enters the lovely Gold and Red Cliffs, a narrow canyon whose walls are stained purple, cobalt and rust. On the road, you may have a chance to visit the caves, temples and shines that have been built upon around Milarepa’s Cave. When the trail emerges onto the Barkha plain, close to the fourth prostration point (4700m), Gurla Mandata is again visible in the distance. It’s now an easy one-hour walk back to Darchen along a dirt road. Today’s trekking is an easy walk back towards Darchen, taking only about 3 hours in total. After arriving at Darchen, the ending point of the circuit, you will have a sense of accomplishment having completed the sacred journey.
After the trekking, your driver will meet you and take you to Zanda in the Ngari Prefecture, Tibet. It is about 230 kilometers from Darchen, taking about 4.5 hours’ driving. Zanda County is known for its unique geography, and home to several important cultural and historical sites, such as the ancient Guge Kingdom ruins and Tholing Monastery. Stay overnight in Zanda.


Attractions
2 sites
Transportation
coach
Dining
None
Accommodation
hotel in Zanda
Altitude: 4600m | Distance: 340km, about 5 hours’ drive
On this day, you and your group will have an in-depth exploration in Zanda County. Start your trip with a mysterious visit to the ruins of the ancient Guge Kingdom. The Guge Kingdom was an important kingdom in Tibet that flourished from the 10th century to the 17th century. The ruins of the Guge Kingdom feature unique architecture and exquisite artwork, including frescoes, sculptures, and carvings. The ancient artists used vivid colors and intricate details to depict Buddhist teachings, historical events, and daily life. The ruins of the Guge Kingdom were once an imperial estate that fell into disrepair after the civil war revolt and the invasion of the 8 Allied Forces of foreign countries that destroyed the once prosperous state. Luckily the legendary kingdom has not been totally lost as much can still be learned from what remains of it. You will follow the route and pay a visit to Red Palace which as a religious center consisting of several buildings - a main hall, a chapel and a monk’s quarters, and then visit White Palace, the residence of the king and his family. You can find that the architecture is in Tibetan, Indian and Chinese influences and the wall were adorned with intricate murals, carvings and sculptures. Reach the top the kingdom and have a fantastic panoramic view of the ruin site.
After visiting the Ancient Ruins of Guge Kingdom, drive about 20 kilometers to to see the magnificent Zanda Earth Forest. This unique natural phenomenon is created by wind and water erosion, forming unusual rock formations that are considered the most typical and largest tertiary strata earth forest in the world. The Earth Forest stretches over more than five kilometers along both sides of the Elephant Spring River. The rocks resemble warriors defending the mountaintop, some like thousands of horses galloping, and some like devout followers of a religion nurturing themselves. From different angles, visitors can appreciate the wonderful scenery. You can marvel at the strange and otherworldly shapes of the rocks, feel the uniqueness of the incredible Earth Forest against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, and learn about the geological processes that have shaped the landscape.
The last stop today is Tholing Monastery with a history dating back to the 10th century. It is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Tibet and was an important center for Buddhism and art during the Guge Kingdom era. Tholing means “hovering in the sky forever” and there are many ancient precious and well preserved frescoes... Have an exploration to its Main Hall (features a large statue of Buddha Shakyamuni), Assembly Hall (used for large gatherings and ceremonies and features a large statue of Guru Rinpoche) and Scripture Hall (the monks gather to study and recite Buddhist scriptures).
After the tour, drive to Darchen County for accommodation.




Attractions
3 sites
Transportation
coach
Dining
None
Accommodation
hotel in Darchen
On this day, you'll drive from Darchen to Saga, passing through the windswept rural territory of Tibet. The road from Darchen to Saga is mostly unpaved and can be quite bumpy and dusty. However, the journey is well worth it, as you'll appreciate a variety of stunning landscapes, including high mountain passes, grasslands, and river valleys. You'll also enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas along the way.
As you drive, you'll pass through numerous small towns and villages, as well as camps of yak and sheep herders, giving you a glimpse into the daily life of the local people. You'll see nomads tending their herds, farmers working in their fields, and monks walking along the roadside. You'll have the opportunity to take a break along the way and stretch your legs, as well as stop at scenic viewpoints to take photos and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Stay overnight in Saga County.


Attractions
scenery on the way
Transportation
coach
Dining
None
Accommodation
hotel in Saga
In this morning, drive from Saga to Gyirong Town, located on the border between China and Nepal. Gyirong Town is renowned for its captivating beauty and its distinctive cultural blend of Chinese and Nepalese influences. En route to Gyirong Town, you will be treated to breathtaking scenery, including snow-capped mountains, lush forests, canyons, and majestic waterfalls.
Upon reaching Gyirong Town, you will have the opportunity to explore Gyirong Valley, which boasts a magnificent canyon and a stunning suspension bridge. Following the tour, you and your group will be smoothly transferred from Gyirong Town to Gyirong Border. Your knowledgeable guide will assist you in crossing the border to exit China.
Travel Note:
Currently, the Zhangmu Port is primarily used for freight, while Gyirong Port is used for tourism. The Friendship Highway is an 800-kilometre scenic route that connects Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, to the Chinese/Nepalese border at the Sino-Nepal Friendship Bridge between Zhangmu and Kodari.
It is time to end your 13-day Tibet Overland Group tour. Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Tibet tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Safe journey!




Attractions
scenery on the way
Transportation
coach
Dining
Breakfast
Accommodation
none
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Price: What’s Included & What’s Excluded
What’s Included:









What’s Excluded:







Hotel Selections for Tibet Group Tour




In a Tibet group tour, there are two main types of accommodation choices on a Tibet group tour: basic standard and comfortable. In major cities like Lhasa, there are a variety of accommodation options available, ranging from 3 star to 4 star hotels. In more remote areas, such as near Mount Everest or Mount Kailash, the accommodations may be more basic, with simple guesthouses or tented camps. We will email you the detailed hotel arrangement after your booking.
If there is a single room due to gender reasons, we will arrange a triple room (or double standard room with and extra bed) or pay the single room supplement by the yourself.
Important Trip Notes for Booking a Tibet Group Tour
All foreign travelers are advised to make their bookings at least one week in advance and send the necessary documents to us for obtaining the permits. However, if you plan to visit Mount Kailash, it is recommended to book at least two weeks in advance, as it may take longer to obtain the necessary permits.
29-15 days before departure: 20% cancellation fee of the total tour cost
14-7 days before departure: 50% cancellation fee of the total tour cost
7 days or less before departure: No refunds
Latest Tibet Group Tours Reviews from Our Customers

Ilwad
Australia
Tour name: Line B2, 8 days Lhasa-Yamdroktso-Shigaste-Mt.Everest tour.
Key people: Bob (local Tibetan tour guide), Catherine Wang (travel consultant), Mr. Yu. Jian (driver).
This tour was sublime, a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! From the very start, I was met with grace and incredible kindness. The driver assigned to me by the company was Susan and greeted me with a smile on her face, as well as the traditional Tibetan scarf she delicately placed around my neck. She then kindly offered to take some photos of me outside of the airport and offered me some water as we drove to the first accommodation in Lhasa. She then sent me a few locations within the city to explore, for shopping and food and shared her experience of living in the region for over a decade.
The following day we met our tour guide Bob, who to date has been my favourite tour guide. He was nothing short of incredible. Not only did he translate everything from Tibetan to Mandarin and English, making the tour accessible to all of us, but went above and beyond for all of us. Whether it was taking extra photos from awkward angles as the photographer to answering our follow-up questions or even giving us his own recommendations i.e. where to rent the traditional Tibetan clothes or shop for souvenirs. He was incredibly knowledgeable and humble- a true mix of wisdom and personal insight. I found his personal experiences and insight made the tour feel more authentic, especially as he had been doing this since 2009. His great anecdotes and true appreciation of the Tibetan culture, as well as his uplifting attitude and great sense of humour made the trip that much more special. Especially on the days when we were on the road for up to 7 hours, as we began the travel towards Everest Base Camp (EBC).
In terms of the people I met on the tour, it was truly a mixed bag in the best way possible! As I was a 22-year-old solo solo-female traveler you might expect that I would want to be around a similar company. In contrast, I had the best time ever with a wildly different demographic! From middle-aged interracial married couples to retired solo travelers and other solo travelers, my group was made up of people from different neighbouring countries each with their own experiences of travel. As someone who is learning Chinese this was perfect for improving my linguistic skills however most could also speak English so there were no language barriers either.
The people in my group were lovely, kind and interesting characters. Each with open-minds and curiousity about the Tibetan culture. Having people from different walks of life and experiences in my group turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Even with our different backgrounds, we shared laughter, food and stories. I am grateful to have been in the same group as them for those 8 days- it was a true pleasure. Also, the nature of the tour meant that we overlapped with different groups based on both of our itineraries, meaning that we mixed with others for the first few days of the tour. This was a great way to also meet others as some were also staying at the same hotel as us.
The driver Mr. Yu Jian was also incredible. He so kindly brought our luggage in and out of the vehicles and always waited for us patiently in the mornings. Even when we (I) were running late, losing track of the timings and rushing outside with a hastily prepared buffet breakfast to go.
In terms of the tour, my personal highlights were of course seeing EBC and Everest in person, however, the in-betweens were just as remarkable. The 108 zig-zags we had to endure on the way to EBC, the petrol station stops where we’d stretch our legs and interact with the locals (often trying to sell us things) and growing closer and closer to the enchanting Everest. Being able to see the surreal landscape views of Tibet, both in Lhasa and outside, was awe-inducing. As I flew in on 25/03, I was met with the mountainscape being submerged with snow. By the time we made it to EBC, the snow had mostly melted but the rugged mountain view perfectly complemented the seemingly endless holy Yamdrok Lake. It was a nature lover’s paradise through and through, especially with the domesticated and wild animals across the area.
I also thoroughly enjoyed interacting with the locals. They met me with such curiosity, warmth and open-mindedness. I was touched to be perhaps the first black European person they met, and hope that they left our interactions with a new perspective. The first meal I had in Tibet was also sublime (I will put a picture below of the dish and a screenshot of the location I went to, recommended to me by my first driver). There was also a traditional Tibetan musical performance shortly after I had finished my meal, also recommended to me by Susan which began around 8pm!
My favourite monastery we visited was also the Tashi Lhunpo monastery in Shigatse, which we visited on our penultimate day in Tibet. We went on a Sunday which meant that not many tourists, if any, were there. Especially the tour took place during the off-season (End of March/Early April). As such it was an immersive experience being able to calmly walk through the monastery. With a history dating back to 1447, I felt like I connected to this the most, with there being living trees on the site that had been first planted over 400 years ago! Even seeing locals re-paint some of the religious paintings and the monks ready to enter for their evening classes gave a sense of serenity. It was a wonderful way to end the trip. Also, I would like to highlight seeing the Yamdrok Lake’s deep shades of turquoise from many angles (extraordinary), trying yak meat for the first time (different and at times tasty), seeing the Karola glacier (even when the rest of the landscape was snowless), seeing monks’ daily debates at Sera Monastery, of course climbing and seeing Polata Palace (tip: bring a 50 RMB note with you to take the famed picture outside Polata Palace- a fellow tour member loaned me his, thanks Yuki!), as well as Jokhang Temple and the Tibetan incense making where the activity leader wrote us, upon our request, a sign in the Tibetan language with anything i.e. our name or quotes. Seeing the stars on the first day of the new moon in the village just outside of Everest was also phenomenal (tip: walk 5-10 minutes in the opposite direction of heading into town to escape the light pollution for a better view, we only stayed out for 15 minutes just around midnight due to fatigue but if you really commit to it and maybe even venture further out and perhaps later on in the night around the new moon phase you will be stunned out what will find in the starry night sky.. hopefully the milky way!).
I would also like to give a warm mention to the hotel workers in the first hotel we stayed in Lhasa as they were incredibly kind to me. They were curious to know what my story was and where I had travelled as well as catering to my needs in the mornings (i.e. morning coffee etc.). Though they won’t see this, the woman working at the Tibetan clothes’ rental who helped me take pictures on my phone and conversed with me was also very kind! Even the shopkeeper who gave me a freebie after I bought some goods from his store was patient with me as I perused through the shops looking for instant noodles. Overall, I was met with such kindness from the very start of the trip until the very end!
Regarding altitude sickness, if you are worried about the high altitude, I bought Diamox , also known as Acetazolamide, (250mg per tablet) and got a prescription from a pharmacist. I took 1 tablet the day before I flew into Lhasa (during my layover in Kunming, Yunnan) and took another tablet for the next two days, waiting 24 hours between each 250mg dose. I adjusted well to the altitude and only took another one when we were heading to higher altitudes (particularly the mountain pass that is higher than EBC and the day of EBC). In total, I took 4 tablets on 4 days (the day before landing in Lhasa, days 1 and 2 of the tour as well as day 4 of the tour). I stopped taking it after EBC day and was fine throughout the trip. The tour will provide you with one free bottle of oxygen, as well as an emergency tank of oxygen in the shuttle bus. For reference I didn’t finish the bottle of oxygen throughout the trip but bought a spare one from the supermarket down the road from the hotel in Lhasa and the quality was great for only a few more RMB (lasted the entire trip). With a lot of water for hydration and taking it easy, alongside deep breaths, I think this tour is accessible to anyone without any underlying health conditions.
Finally, I would like to thank my tour agent Catherine Wang who has supported me throughout this trip! From when I first sent an email back in December 2024 to inquire about this tour until present she has supported me and provided me with updates throughout this process. Although I sent persistent emails (regarding the Shigatse earthquake and permit process/progress update) she always kept me in the loop. Even during the trip she had sent me an email to ask how it was going. Thank you very much for your patience and hard work, this trip has been the trip of a lifetime!
TLDR: I would 1000% recommend this trip and tour. All the little moments and cherished memories I have made will last a lifetime. Thank you to Bob, Mr. Yu Jian, Catherine, Susan, my tour group members and all the others who have made this trip so special. I am beyond grateful.
Destination(s): Tibet
Date of Experience: Oct 07, 2024
Tour Customized by: Catherine
You May be Interested in This Tour: 8 Days Lhasa Yamdrok Shigatse Group Tour with Everest Base Camp

Jia Yin
Malaysia
Right from the start, Betty, our travel agent has helped us to create an unforgettable Tibet travel experience for my husband and I. She is attentive to our needs and has helped us to obtain the necessary documents to travel to Tibet. Our Tibetan guide, Lobsang, too is very friendly and eager to share Tibetan culture and history.
Destination(s): Tibet
Date of Experience: Jul 08, 2024
Tour Customized by: Betty
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Lynn
USA
We recently took a 6 day tour to Tibet , booking through Asia Odyssey Travel through agent Thalia.
Our itinerary including:
1, flying from Peking to Xining (with one day private tour in Xining)
2, taking overnight train from Xining to Lhasa.
3, Staying in Lhasa for 4 nights visiting several monasteries, palaces and Yamdrok Lake.
4, flying from Lhasa to Chengdu with one day private tour in Chengdu.
The highlights of the tour is the overnight train ride ( around 19 hours) passing snow capped mountains with breath taking scenery. Although we were told by several tours that it was extremely difficult to obtain train tickets, Thalia was able to secure train tickets and Tibet permits for us as promised ( soft sleeper cabin for four) Thalia is the best travel agent I have dealt with so far. We communicated by WhatsApp and paid by PayPal or WeChat. Thalia sent us itinerary first and followed us throughout the whole trip with updated detailed instructions of flight information, airport pick up and tour guide contact information, scenic points on the train ride , and precautions for high altitude sickness. ( there are oxygen and humidifier in Lagani hotel in Lhasa)
When our flight from Lhasa to Chengdu was delayed, Thalia made her best efforts to rebook different flights.
We also had fantastic tours in Chengdu lead by Tina Chen and in Xining by Sally
Thalia is reliable, always replying texts promptly and available even when she was on vacation. Her English is excellent. She is professional , pleasant , optimistic and reassuring.
We definitely will contact her for any future trips to China.
Thalia email Thalia@aisiaodysseytravel.com
Destination(s): Tibet, Chengdu/Sichuan, Qinghai
Date of Experience: Nov 09, 2024
Tour Customized by: Thalia
You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour