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My 8-day journey overland from Kathmandu to Lhasa turned out to be one of the most unforgettable travel experiences of my life.
Winding across some of the most dramatic landscapes on the planet and climbing to elevations above 5,000 meters, it was the kind of trip I had dreamt about for years – a blend of rugged beauty, cultural depth, and smooth logistics, made possible with the help of Tibet Vista.
Navigating Nepal to Tibet: Expert Support and a Seamless Journey with Tibet Vista
I discovered Tibet Vista while trying to figure out how to plan a Nepal to Tibet Tour before continuing on to China. I knew this wasn’t going to be your average border crossing - it involved Tibet travel permit, a special group visa, and navigating a high-altitude route through some pretty remote parts of the Himalayas.
After reading reviews and spending time on their website, I decided to get in touch. From the very first email, Zoe from their team was quick to respond and incredibly helpful. That kind of clear, friendly communication continued right through the planning process and made me feel like I was in good hands.
The itinerary - eight-day road trip from Kathmandu to Lhasa - was the perfect way to ease into the altitude while soaking in the scenery. We started in the green valleys near Kathmandu and made our way into the remote, stark beauty of the Tibetan Plateau, eventually reaching Lhasa. Along the way, we stopped at quiet Tibetan towns, ancient monasteries, turquoise lakes, glaciers, and, of course, Everest.
One thing that really stood out was how varied the landscapes were. Every day looked completely different – one morning we’d be winding through thick forests, and by afternoon we’d be driving across wide, high-altitude plains with nothing but sky and snow-capped peaks in the distance.
Clear view of Mt.Everest.
Local pilgrims at Tashilunpo Monastery.
Tibetan Monks in Tashilunpo Monastery.
Experience the best of Himalaya from both sides by joining our 8-day Kathmandu to Lhasa tour.
Guided by Tradition and Nature: From Gyirong to Everest and the Heart of Tibetan Culture
The border crossing at Gyirong went smoothly, and on the Chinese side, we were welcomed by our Tibetan guide, Tashi. From that moment on, he became an essential part of the journey. His knowledge of Tibetan history and Buddhism was incredible, and he always made sure we were doing okay with the altitude, checking in often and encouraging us to drink plenty of water and rest when needed.
Seeing Mount Everest up close was, not surprisingly, a massive highlight. The stretch between Gyirong and Everest Base Camp was surreal – vast, windswept landscapes, high mountain passes, and a sense of total isolation.
We drove past Mount Shishapangma and the shimmering Pelku Tso Lake before Everest finally appeared, rising behind shifting clouds. It was a moment that took my breath away. At Rongbuk Monastery, the highest in the world, we spent some quiet time taking it all in before descending to Tingri which helped with the altitude.
Another place that left a deep impression was Yamdrok Lake. Its unbelievably vivid turquoise water, framed by snow-covered peaks, felt like something out of a dream. We had a delicious lunch in a small village in a local family’s home which offered a real window into Tibetan life beyond the usual tourist route.
The itinerary also included cultural stops that gave insight into Tibetan history and its spiritual side. In Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, we visited the Tashilhunpo Monastery, with its golden roofs and monks chanting in the courtyards.
Then in Gyantse, we explored Pelkor Chöde Monastery and its remarkable Kumbum – a multi-level stupa filled with chapels and statues, unlike anything I’ve seen before. We also stopped at Karola Glacier, where the ice practically tumbled down to the roadside and the cold wind reminded us just how high we really were.
The blue water of Yamdrok lake.
Karola glacier on the way from Shigatse to Lhasa.
Tibetan lunch we had during the family visit.
Pelkor Monastery.
Tashilunpo Monastery, the largest in Shigatse.
Lhasa’s Spiritual Heartbeat: Immersed in History, Tradition, and Unforgettable Moments
Arriving in Lhasa felt like reaching the end of a pilgrimage. The city was full of life and history, and we had two full days Lhasa tour. Wandering through the halls of the Potala Palace – once the home of the Dalai Lamas - was awe-inspiring.
At Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism, we watched pilgrims performing prostrations on the stone square and followed the Barkhor Circuit alongside locals deep in prayer.
I also enjoyed the visit to a traditional tea house for some sweet Tibetan tea, which allowed to observe how Tibetans sat together to chat about their day. Even though unfortunately we were not able to communicate due to the language barrier – our smiles still went a long way.
Tibet isn’t always the easiest place to travel. Between the permits, the elevation, the language barrier, the remoteness and the unfamiliar rules, it can feel overwhelming. But Tibet Vista handled every logistical detail so well that I barely had to think about any of it. That gave me the freedom to actually be in the moment – to enjoy the land, listen to the stories, and take it all in.
Would I go back to Tibet? Absolutely. This trip only scratched the surface. I’d love to see Mount Kailash, Lake Namtso, and explore the eastern regions someday. And when I do, I won’t think twice about who to travel with.
Jokhang temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet.
Lively monks debate at Sera Monastery.
Barkhor Street.
The stunning night view of Potala Palace.
Enjou sweet tea at Tibetan teahouse.
My Advice: Slow Down, Stay Prepared, and Embrace the Unexpected on Your Tibet Journey
If you’re thinking about making the overland trip from Kathmandu to Lhasa, my advice is simple: acclimatize slowly and take your time (if it makes you feel more comfortable bring preventive medication for altitude sickness in Tibet or ask your guide for an oxygen tank).
Also, listen to your knowledgeable guide, dress in layers as the climate can vary a lot, and stay open to the unexpected moments – quiet exchanges of smiles, unplanned photo stops, and cups of tea shared with friendly strangers.
Those are the ones you’ll remember the most. Most importantly, go with an experienced agency like Tibet Vista. Their deep local knowledge, organizational skill, and care for their travelers made this journey not just possible, but unforgettable.
Journey through the Himalayas, culture, and Tibetan life on our 8-day Kathmandu to Lhasa tour.
"Across the Himalayas with Tibet Vista: An Unforgettable Journey from Kathmandu to Lhasa"