Tibet Overland Tour

Tibet Overland Tour Everest Base Camp - 14 Days

Tibet Overland Tour Everest Base Camp is amazing tour in the Tibet. Start your journey to Tibet with a spectacular flight over the snow capped Himalayan Mountains Mt Kanchenjunga (8586 meters), Mt Everest (8848 meters) Mt Makalu (8463 meters) and others, spending 3 nights in Lhasa, staying right in the centre of the old city.

This will allow us plenty of time for acclimatization and easy access to the city’s main attractions – including Jokhang Temple and the monumental Potala palace of Kings and Dalai Lamas, with its various chapels along with unforgettable rooftop views of the holy city.

The Autonomous Region of Tibet is located in southwestern China and on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The region covers an area of approximately 1.22 million km2, covering 12.8% of China’s total area. Taking a trip from Lhasa to Kathmandu is the best way to understand and explore Tibet. Tibet is without question a world apart, long considered a land of mystery and wonder, harsh and exquisitely beautiful.

The Tibet Overland tour Everest base camp, Leaving Lhasa in our 4 wheel drive, we’ll travel through this amazing country, staying in the best traditional hotels Tibet has to offer. Thoroughly exploring the towns of Gyantse and Shigatse we visit traditional monasteries and fully immerse ourselves in the Buddhist culture.

Along the Highway we travel through some of the most amazing landscapes on Earth. We pass small Tibetan settlements, nomadic herdsmen wandering across the wide arid plains and awe-inspiring mountain peaks.

Equally as fascinating is the wealth of cultural interest and there is plenty of opportunity to explore this side of Tibet, both in Lhasa and the other towns we pass through on our journey back to Kathmandu.

Day 1
Arrive in Kathmandu (1400 meters)

Upon your arrival in the Kathmandu airport after completing your custom formalities Visa, etc. pick up your luggage and look for our airport representative from Himalaya Discovery, who will display your name on the board at the arrival gate.

You will be greeted by our representative and transferred to the hotel by private tourist vehicle. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2
Free in Kathmandu for sightseeing and pre trip briefing and gear check.

Today is free for sightseeing in Kathmandu. You may wish to visit Durbar Square in the heart of the old city where the old Royal Palace, with its intricate woodcarving is located.

The whole area is a maze of temples and images. Leading away from the square in all directions are narrow alleys, full of the most amazing variety of shops and stalls.

Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites including the historic Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ Swayambhunath and Buddhists shrine Buddhanath which is one of the largest Stupas in the world.

There will also be a full trip briefing today with gear check. In case you need to hire or buy equipment locally there will be time to do this today. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 3
Fly to Lhasa (3660 meters).

Early morning transfer to the international airport for the hour-long flight to Lhasa. This stunning flight, on a China Southwest Airlines Boeing 757, takes us right across the main Himalayan range and provides us with magnificent mountain views.

After landing at Gongar Airport and meeting our Tibetan guide, it is a further 2-hour drive by Land cruiser to Lhasa. It’s advisable to rest and take it easy for the remainder of the day due to Lhasa’s altitude. Overnight at hotel.

Day 4
Sightseeing tour in Lhasa.

We spend today visiting several of Lhasa’s many monasteries in the company of a guide and interpreter. One of these is the Sera Monastery, one of the best-preserved monasteries in Tibet, within its whitewashed walls and golden roofs, several hundred monks live and study.

After lunch we’ll visit the Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama, as well as the Jokhang Temple. This temple is possibly the most sacred shrine in Tibet and there is always a procession of devout Tibetans through the complex.

Surrounding the Jokhang is the Barkor – a maze of narrow cobbled streets that is the central market of Lhasa. Overnight at hotel.

Day 5
Second day of sightseeing tour in Lhasa.

In the morning, we visit Potala Palace which dominates the city of Lhasa it’s a spectacular building, containing private quarters of the Dalai Lama as well as numerous grand state rooms and many important chapels.

There has been a Palace on this site since the 5th or 6th century, but the present Palace was constructed in the 17th century. After lunch, we visit the Drepung Monastery, which was founded in the 14th century and was once the largest in the world, with a population of around 10,000 monks.

These days that figure is down to several hundred, but there is still much here of interest as it was left relatively unscathed during the Cultural Revolution. Overnight at hotel.

Day 6
Drive Lhasa to Gyantse (3950meters) - 261 k.m

The day begins with our overland journey towards Rongbuk valley. We follow the Friendship Highway by jeep, we cross the Khamba La at elevation of 4794 meters from which there are stunning views across the waters of Yamdrok-tso Lake to the snowy summit of Nazin Kang Sa 7252 meters.

As we continue our journey to westwards over another high pass the Karo La 5045 meters, we can view the spectacular sight of a huge glacier tumbling down to within a few hundred meters of the road.

After few hours, we arrive to Gyantse passing the beautiful valleys and colourful Tibetan villages. Overnight at hotel.

Day 7
Drive to Shigatse (3900 meter) - 90 k.m.

This morning we visit the Gyantse Dzong. This fort dates back to the fourteenth century and offers some of the most amazing views of Gyantse and surrounding valleys.

Before leaving we also visit the famed Gyantse Kumbum. This magnificent tiered structure is the largest stupa in all of Tibet. If the exquisite gold dome is not enough, this stupa is packed with Tibetan sculptures and paintings.

Thereby, we continue the trip to Shigatse, the second largest city in Tibet. It is only about a 90 km drive taking us to Shigatse which is a laid back city that provides excellent opportunity for both relaxation and discovery.

Thereafter, exploring the local market we will make a detailed visit to the Tashilhunpo Monastery, one of the largest functioning monasteries in Tibet. Overnight at hotel.

Day 8
Drive to Shegar (New Tingri) (4050 meters) - 244 k.m.

The views of this desert plateau provide wondrous entertainment as we travel along the Friendship Highway. This stretch is the most spectacular landscape in Tibet.

After passing through the small town of Lhatse we will cross Gyatmso La elevation of 5220 meters, the highest pass on our journey. The land quickly descends to plains after Gyatmso La.

While travelling through the plains we will see many nomadic herders, quiet countryside, and secluded monasteries. Overnight at hotel.

Day 9
Drive to Ronguk (5000 meters) - 68K.m.

As we leave Shigatse, we turn off the Friendship Highway and head south over the Pang La 5150 meters towards the main Himalayan range that give magnificent view stretching from Makalu to Shishapangma.

Below the pass, as we turn the corner into the Rongbuk Valley, we can watch the charming view of Everest than ever. Overnight at hotel.

Day 10
Hike to Everest Base Camp (5150 meters) and back to Rongbuk (5000 meters) and drive back to Tingri (4390meters) - 65 k.m.

A highlight of the journey for everyone today as you have the opportunity to explore Everest Base camp. The views of Everest are so close making the mountain seem even more impressive than before.

It is a truly breathtaking experience to stare up at the sheer North face of this highest mountain in the world, with Mount Everest towering above you in a looming yet magical way.

After Lunch we get back on Friendship highway and continue our marvellous journey. Overnight at hotel.

Day 11
Drive to Zhangmu (2300 meters) - 181 k.m.

After we leave Tingri, crossing two high passes, Lalung La at altitude of 5124meters and the Shung La 5200meters. On the way, we are rewarded by the magnificent landscapes of the surrounding peaks including Shishapangma, Cho Oyu, Menlungtse and Gauri Shankar. Then our journey heads towards the arid Tibetan Plateau to Zhangmu on the Nepalese border. As we leave Tibet, it appears an incredibly lush and green. Overnight at hotel.

Day 12
Drive to Kathmandu( 1400meters).

Leaving Zhangmu behind, we join the Friendship Bridge passing the Bhote Koshi River and mark the Chinese – Nepalese border. After that short drive, we say good-bye to our Tibetan guide.

Then we drive and walk to Nepalese Immigration control in Kodari, there we have our Himalaya Discovery Adventures staff, completing the re-entry formalities we’ll drive towards Kathmandu, which may take 5 hours, it depends on road & weather conditions. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 13
Free day / Fly to home.

Today is rest and relax throughout the day. If you get interested to take some gifts from Nepal for friends and relatives, visit to some nearby shops or go out in Thamel for typical Nepalese goods which can be assisted by our guide or you can do it yourself too.

In the evening we will have a farewell dinner in a traditional Nepalese restaurant with cultural performances. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 14
Fly to home.

The trip concludes! our airport representative will drop you to the airport for your flight departure from Nepal.

Cost Includes

  • Airport transfers pick-up and drop-off.
  • A government licensed english speaking Tibetan guide during the tour.
  • The required number of tour staff during the tour.
  • Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, medicine for all staff.
  • Land cruiser (4WD) and support truck during the Tibet tour (for group tour).
  • Airfare from Lhasa – Kathmandu.
  • Kathmandu to Kodari boarder (Friendship Bridge) transfers and pick up by private jeep / van / bus.
  • Tibet entry permission, Chinese visa, monasteries entry fees etc.
  • Accommodation in Tibet on twin sharing basis with breakfast.
  • Sightseeing and monastery entrance fees as per our itinerary.
  • Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
  • Sleeping bag, and walking stick (if it is required)
  • All government taxes.
  • Farewell dinner with culture show.

Cost Excludes

  • Lunch and dinner (allow US$ 12 to 18 per person per day).
  • International airfare and Nepal visa.
  • Personal tour equipment.
  • Internet, telephone call, tips for guide, driver and staff.
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on the Price Include section.

Q. Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival?

A. Yes, our airport representative will be there to greet you at the airport. S/he will be displaying an Himalaya Discovery Adventures sign board outside the airport terminal. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by our tourist vehicle.

Q. When is the best time to travel to Nepal?

A. For the trekking regions of the Annapurna, Everest, Langtang, Jumla Rara Lake, Makalu, Kanchenjunga and Manaslu we recommend the periods February to May and September to December as the best time for travelling.

  •  For trekking in Mustang or Dolpo region we recommend May to September.
  • The Poon hill  trek  in the Annapurna region takes place throughout the entire year.
  • Cultural tours takes place throughout the entire year. For the best mountain views the periods February to May and September to December are recommended.

Q. How is the climate (temperatures) during the seasons?

A. Winter – January and February. Pleasant temperatures. The nights, mornings and evenings can, however, be quite cold (approx. 0°C – 5°C. Throughout the day, it is mostly sunny with cooler temperatures (approx. 18°C – 20°C).

Spring – March to May. Hot and dry pre-monsoon season (approx. 25°C – 30°C during the day, and approx. 7°C – 20°C at night). May is the hottest month in the lowlands. June is the hottest month in the mountains.

Summer – Monsoon from June to August (approx. 28°C – 30°C during the day, and approx. 20°C at night). Strong rainfall, continuous sultriness and high humidity.

Early autumn – From September the monsoon season is constantly interrupted by periods with only a slight rainfall. Towards the end of August the pauses in rainfall become more frequent and longer.

Late autumn – Post-monsoon season from October to December. The nights, mornings and evenings can be relatively cool (approx. 5°C – 10°C). During the day the sun shines and it is warm (approx. 20°C – 27°C).

Q. Where can I change money?

A. Any cash you have taken with you can be exchanged into Nepalese rupees at the banks, large hotels and the numerous bureau de changes.

Q. Can I use my mobile phone in Nepal?

A. The network coverage is meanwhile quite good in the Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara and other parts of the Terai (in the rural areas it is very unpredictable).

Basically, foreign SIM cards (providers having international roaming contracts with Nepal) can also be used. However, it is cheaper to buy a local SIM card (Mero Mobile, NTC (GSM) – for approx. NPR 500 or more) and top this up.

Q. Can I use the tap water for drinking and brushing teeth?

A. Tap water is not suitable for drinking in Nepal and it should not be used for cleaning your teeth, either. As there is often a scarcity of water in the countryside, water should be used very sparingly.

Q. What should I concern during my stay in Nepal?

A. Nepali people are very kind and friendly, but there are some things that you should be aware of:

  • Do not take photos of anyone without their permission; always ask permission first!
  • Do not wear hot pants/short paints or stylish clothes in the remote area! (shoulders and legs should be covered)
  • Do not wear hats or caps when you enter a chapel!
  • Do not touch Buddha statues or ritual offerings inside of a monastery!
  • Do not kiss or hug in public places, especially in monasteries!
  • Do not step across someone’s feet, cups or cooking gears!

Q. What documents do I need to visit Nepal?

A. A tourist visa is required for entering Nepal. The tourist visa can be applied for, for different lengths of stay. A visa is required for children under 10 years but no fee is charged. The entry to Nepal must take place within 6 months of issuing the visa.

Q. How much does the Visa for Nepal cost?

A. The fees for the tourist visa (fees valid since 16.07.2008) are staggered as follows:

  • 15 days (several entries possible)  $ 25 (approx. EUR 20.00)
  • 30 days (several entries possible)  $ 40 (approx. EUR 35.00)
  • 90 days (several entries possible)  $ 100 (approx. EUR 85.00)

An extension of the visa to a maximum of 150 days is possible (per year – January to December). The extension must be made at the Immigration Office in Kathmandu. A fee of $ 2.00 is charged in Nepalese rupees (NPR) per day of extension.

Q. Can I find a hospital with western doctors?

A. CIWEC Clinic with western doctors is located in Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Tel. +977 1 442 4111, info@ciwec-clinic.com.

Q. Do I need an international health and travel insurance?

A. It is recommended taking out a travel and health insurance covering the following risks:- Emergency and personal accident transport/emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue, rescue costs in a case of illness or accident), medical and personal accident risks, repatriation, tour cancellation, damages and theft of baggage.

Q. What happens in bad weather periods?

A. There is virtually always a possibility of a flight delay or postponement owing to highly unpredictable weather conditions that may occur in Himalayan regions, in particular, in the Everest region (Lukla), Jomsom, Dolpo, Simikot and the Jumla region, etc.

When trekking in remote areas or those described above, and especially outside the trekking season, the clients are strongly advised to reserve extra days for making  allowance for possible delays, and thereby avoid any frustrating consequences. In the case of a delayed flight prior to commencing the tour, or at the end of the tour, the participants shall pay for their own accommodation, food costs, etc.

Q. Where can I store my unneeded luggage during trekking?

A. As a rule there is the possibility before commencing the trek, of depositing part of the baggage in the hotel in Kathmandu or in Pokhara.

Q. What kind of meals I can have during the trekking?

A. All Meals on full board basis will be provided during trekking. Freshly cooked food is served at all times (western, continental and Nepalese, Chinese, Indian and Tibetan meals are available in all places).

Q. Is there any communication while we are on trekking?

A. There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls. All our guides are equipped with the local mobile phone. You may wish to pass the number of our guide to your family for the callback or you can make a call from the guide’s mobile and pay him directly for the international call too.

Q. Can I re-charge camera batteries along the trek?

A. Yes, Most of the places, you can charge batteries along the trek (per hour USD 2 – 3 for charging).

Q. What kinds of banking facilities in Nepal?

A. Nepal has modern banking facilities and some international banks even have offices in Kathmandu. Almost all foreign currencies along with credit cards such as American Express, Visa, and Master card are accepted in Nepal. Nepal has also ATM facilities as well.

The above information is a guide and standard template of what we provide. This itinerary can be customized according to the duration of your holiday. We have many options for shorter visits based on your interests and budget.

On an adventure trip of this type, weather, political strikes, transport or a multitude of other factors beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary. It is however very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered; if alterations are necessary the leader will decide what is the best alternative, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. Where a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Tibet Overland Tour Everest Base Camp

Trip Facts

  • Damanding
  • Min. 2 to Max 10 People
  • March to November.
  • 5,220m.
  • KTM/KTM
  • 1 to 2 hours.
Chhiring Sherpa - Trip Planner

“I was born and raised in Nepal, nearby Everest region. I am proud to be a native Sherpa, and I have been a Mountain guide over a decade now. Following my passion, I decided to start helping travelers with their travel plans! I think life is a journey, a trip where you collect experiences when you share with other people and with nature.”