Tusk Travel

12 Days – Tibet Overland Adventure: Kathmandu to Lhasa

11 Nights / 12 Days Kathmandu – Gyirong – Everest Region – Shigatse – Lhasa

Tour Overview

The Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Adventure by Tusk Travel is one of the most iconic cross-border journeys in Asia. Designed for backpackers, overland explorers, and adventurous travelers, this 12-day road trip follows the legendary route from Nepal into the Tibetan Plateau. The itinerary allows gradual altitude gain through the Gyirong Valley, explores the Everest region from the north face, and finishes with classic sightseeing in Lhasa. A true high-altitude adventure combining landscapes, culture, and one of the world’s most dramatic road journeys.

Tour Highlights:

  • Epic Kathmandu to Lhasa overland drive.
  • Cross the Himalayas via the scenic Gyirong border.
  • Gradual altitude acclimatization through valleys and plateaus.
  • Explore the Everest region (North Face).
  • Visit historic towns of Shigatse and Gyantse region.
  • Classic Lhasa highlights: Potala Palace, Jokhang & Barkhor.

Detailed Itinerary

Arrive in Kathmandu and meet your Tusk Travel representative. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening in Nepal’s vibrant capital.

Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

A full day in Kathmandu to prepare for the overland journey. Optional sightseeing includes Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, or Pashupatinath. Final permit checks and travel briefing.

Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Drive north from Kathmandu through scenic mountain roads toward the Nepal–Tibet border region. The journey offers changing landscapes from hills to deep valleys.

Overnight stay near the border region.

Cross the Nepal–Tibet border at Gyirong with assistance from your guide. Enter Tibet and drive to Gyirong Town, located in a lush valley ideal for initial acclimatization.

Overnight stay in Gyirong.

Drive higher onto the Tibetan Plateau toward Tingri. Enjoy expansive views of Himalayan peaks and wide-open landscapes as altitude increases gradually.

Overnight stay in Tingri.

Travel to Everest Base Camp (North Face). Visit Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world, and enjoy unforgettable views of Mount Everest.

Overnight stay near Everest Base Camp.

Spend time in the Everest region for photography and exploration (weather permitting). Experience the raw beauty of the Himalayas before continuing eastward.

Overnight stay in the Everest region.

Drive from the Everest region to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. Descend slightly to a more comfortable altitude.

Overnight stay in Shigatse.

Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery before continuing east via Gyantse. Scenic drive back to Lhasa through high passes and river valleys.

Overnight stay in Lhasa.

Explore Lhasa’s highlights including the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street. Experience the cultural heart of Tibet after your overland adventure.

Overnight stay in Lhasa.

Visit Drepung and Sera Monasteries to learn about Tibetan monastic education and philosophy. Witness monk debates if timing permits.

Overnight stay in Lhasa.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport or railway station for departure. Your cross-border Himalayan adventure ends with unforgettable memories curated by Tusk Travel.

Tour concludes with legendary overland experiences.

Traveller Experiences

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