Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted and transfer
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft). Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
Arrival in Kathmandu Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. This first day is dedicated to settling in and relaxing after your journey. You can explore the hotel facilities or take a short walk around the bustling streets of Thamel, a popular tourist district known for its vibrant shops, cafes, and restaurants. Overnight in Hotel Thamel House or a similar-class hotel.
Day 2: Document Preparation and Sightseeing Today, we complete the necessary paperwork for your Tibet visa application.
Prepare documents for Tibet visa application. Enjoy guided sightseeing in Pashupatinath, Boudhanath and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
Document Preparation and Sightseeing Today, we complete the necessary paperwork for your Tibet visa application. After the formalities, we embark on a guided sightseeing tour. We will visit the following sites today. Pashupatinath Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site) Pashupatinath is one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world and lies 5 kms east of the city center. The richly-ornamented pagoda houses the sacred Linga, or phallic symbol, of Lord Shiva. Chronicles indicate the temple’s existence prior to 400 AD. Devotees can be seen taking ritual dips in the holy Bagmati River flowing beside the temple. Boudhanath Stupa Boudhanath Stupa is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. The white domed stupa stands on a giant mandala. Built during the 5th century, Boudhanath is an important centre of Tibetan Buddhism. Legend has it that the bones of Kasyapa Buddha(one of Buddha’s incarnations) lies at the base of this stupa. Bhaktapur Durbar Square Bhaktapur Durbar Square lies in Bhaktapur, one of the three medieval cities in Kathmandu Valley. The royal square, which was built by the Malla royals, houses some of the best examples of ancient Newari art and architecture. The five-tiered pagoda temple Nyatapola, Palace of 55 Windows, Vatsala Temple, Bhairavnath Temple, Duttaraya Temple, Pujari Math, Golden Gate etc are all cultural treasures of this beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site. Max. Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Overnight in Hotel Thamel House or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast included.
Day 3: Biometrics for Visa processing and Sightseeing In the morning, you will attend your biometric appointment for the Tibet
Complete biometrics for Tibet visa application. Guided sightseeing in Patan Durbar Square, Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath Temple. Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
Biometrics for Visa processing and Sightseeing In the morning, you will attend your biometric appointment for the Tibet visa application. Later, we will visit the following places. Patan Durbar Square (UNESCO World Heritage Site) Patan Durbar Square is an enchanting combination of palace buildings, artistic courtyards and graceful pagoda temples. The former royal palace complex is the center of Patan’s religious and social life, and houses a museum containing an array of bronze statues and religious objects. One remarkable monument here is a 17th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu god Krishna, built entirely of stone. Kathmandu Durbar Square (UNESCO World Heritage Site) This complex of palaces, courtyards and temples, built between the 12th and 18th centuries, used to be the seat of the ancient Malla kings of Kathmandu. An intriguing piece here is the 17th- century stone inscription set into the wall of the palace with writings in 15 languages. The Durbar Square is the social, religious and urban focal point of the city. There are also three museums inside the palace building. Swoyambhunath Stupa – The Monkey Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site) The temple watches over the valley from the top of a hillock on its western side. The huge white domed stupa is one of the holiest Buddhists sites in Nepal and its establishment is linked to the creation of the Kathmandu Valley out of a primordial lake. Swayambhu is also known as Samhengu and the Monkey temple because of the countless monkeys living in the premises. Max. Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Overnight in Hotel Thamel House or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast included.
Day 4: Visa Collection and Sightseeing Today, we will collect your passport along with the Tibet visa and embark on a sightseei
Collect passport and Tibet visa. Guided sightseeing in Pharping. Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
Visa Collection and Sightseeing Today, we will collect your passport along with the Tibet visa and embark on a sightseeing tour of Pharping. Located approximately 19 kilometers from the main city, Pharping is a historic Newari town once known as “Shikharapuri Mahanagari” during medieval times. Today, it is a serene, historic settlement with several notable religious and historical sites. Notably, Pharping is renowned for its cave where Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, meditated. He is revered for introducing Buddhism to Tibet. Max. Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Overnight in Hotel Thamel House or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast included.
Day 5: Free Day and Pre-Trip Meeting This day is reserved for final trip preparations.
Free day for trip preparation or an optional hike to Jamacho. Attend a pre-trip meeting at your hotel lobby or Ace office and do any last-minute shopping. Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
Free Day and Pre-Trip Meeting This day is reserved for final trip preparations. You also have an option to hike to Jamacho Gumba , a popular hiking destination in Kathmandu. It is a 4-to-5-hour hike that starts early in the morning. In the afternoon, you will be back for a pre-trip meeting at your hotel lobby or the ACE office to go over last-minute details, meet your guides, and ask any remaining questions. Use any remaining time to complete your packing and do any last-minute shopping in Thamel, known for its trekking gear shops, souvenir stores, and lively atmosphere. Max. Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft) Overnight in Hotel Thamel House or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast included.
Day 6: Fly to Lhasa Today, we take a flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa.
Fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa (3,656 m / 11,995 ft). Pick up from Gonggar Airport and transfer to your hotel. Full rest for acclimatization. Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
Fly to Lhasa Today, we take a flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa. Upon arrival at Gonggar Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization to the high altitude. It is important to take it easy to help your body adjust to the thinner air of the Tibetan Plateau. Max. Altitude: Lhasa (3,656 m / 11,995 ft) Overnight in Kyichu Hotel or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast included.
Day 7: First day of Sightseeing in Lhasa We start our exploration of Lhasa with a visit to the iconic Potala Palace, the former
Sightseeing tour in Lhasa, including Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Market. Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
First day of Sightseeing in Lhasa We start our exploration of Lhasa with a visit to the iconic Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This magnificent structure offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Next, we visit Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism, where pilgrims from all over Tibet come to worship. We end the day at Barkhor Market, a bustling area surrounding Jokhang Temple, where you can experience the vibrant local culture and shop for unique Tibetan handicrafts. Max. Altitude: Lhasa (3,656 m / 11,995 ft) Overnight in Kyichu Hotel or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast included.
Day 8: Second day of Sightseeing in Lhasa Today, we continue our exploration of Lhasa with visits to two of its most important
Full day sightseeing in Lhasa, visiting Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery. Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
Second day of Sightseeing in Lhasa Today, we continue our exploration of Lhasa with visits to two of its most important monasteries. In the morning, we visit Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world and an important center of learning. In the afternoon, we visit Sera Monastery, known for its debating monks and beautiful complex. After the monastery visits, you have free time to revisit Barkhor Market or explore other parts of the city on your own. Max. Altitude: Lhasa (3,656 m / 11,995 ft) Overnight in Kyichu Hotel or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast included.
Day 9: Drive from Lhasa to Gyantse We start our journey from Lhasa, heading towards Gyantse, a town famed for its rich cultural
Drive from Lhasa to Gyantse (3,950 m/12,959 ft), passing Yamdrok Lake and crossing the high passes of Kora La (5,010 m/16,437 ft) and Kamba La (4,794 m/15,728 ft). Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
Drive from Lhasa to Gyantse We start our journey from Lhasa, heading towards Gyantse, a town famed for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The drive will take us through diverse and striking Tibetan landscapes, including the mesmerizing Yamadroke Lake, known for its turquoise waters and picturesque surroundings. We will cross high mountain passes such as Kora La (5,010 m / 16,433 ft) and Kamba La (4,794 m / 15,725 ft), each offering panoramic views of the rugged terrain and distant peaks. This scenic route allows ample opportunities for photographs and soaking in the dramatic Tibetan landscape. Upon arrival in Gyantse, settle into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. This is a great time to rest and acclimate after the high-altitude journey. Max. Altitude: Kora La (5,010 m / 16,433 ft) Overnight in Yutub Hotel or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast included.
Day 10: Drive from Gyantse to Shigatse Begin the day with a visit to Gyantse’s Pholkor Monastery, renowned for its impressive Ku
Visit Pholkor and Kumbum Monastery. Then, enjoy a scenic drive through the Tibetan countryside to Shigatse (3,900 m/12,795 ft). Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
Drive from Gyantse to Shigatse Begin the day with a visit to Gyantse’s Pholkor Monastery, renowned for its impressive Kumbum Stupa, a multi-storied structure adorned with thousands of intricate murals and sculptures. The monastery complex offers insight into Tibetan Buddhist art and architecture. Following the monastery visit, embark on a scenic drive to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, located 90 km away. The drive through the Tibetan countryside provides a unique view of rural life and stunning vistas. Arriving in Shigatse, check into your hotel and enjoy some free time to explore the local area or relax after the journey. Max. Altitude: Shigatse (3,900 m / 12,795 ft) Overnight in Tashi Chodak or Gesar Hotel Breakfast included.
Day 11: Drive from Shigatse to Rongbuk Start the day with a visit to the Tashilhumpu Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama and
Visit Panchen Lama’s Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse. Then drive to Rongbuk (4,980 m/16,338 ft), crossing Gyatchula Pass (5,200 m/17,060 ft) and passing through Xegar. Upon arrival, explore Rongbuk Monastery, the highest in the world. Overnight at a tented guest house.
Drive from Shigatse to Rongbuk Start the day with a visit to the Tashilhumpu Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama and one of Tibet’s most significant monasteries. The monastery is renowned for its grand architecture and large statue of the Maitreya Buddha. Following the visit, we will drive towards Rongbuk, crossing the Gyatchula Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The drive continues through picturesque Tibetan countryside, leading us to Rongbuk. At Rongbuk, visit the Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world, situated at 4,980 meters. The monastery provides a serene atmosphere and spectacular views of Mount Everest. Max. Altitude: Rongbuk Monastery (4,980 m / 16,335 ft) Overnight at a Tented Guesthouse Breakfast included.
Day 12: Explore Rongbuk Monastery and return to Shigatse After breakfast, we explore Rongbuk Monastery.
Explore the Rongbuk Monastery area and drive to Shigatse. Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
Explore Rongbuk Monastery and return to Shigatse After breakfast, we explore Rongbuk Monastery. From Rongbuk, take in the breathtaking views of the north face of Everest and the dramatic surrounding landscape. In addition to Everest, you can see the vast Rongbuk Glacier , which flows down from the north face of Everest. After spending half a day here, we drive back to Shigatse, retracing our route through the Tibetan highlands. This drive offers another opportunity to appreciate the scenic beauty of the region. Overnight in Tashi Chodak /Gesar Hotel or similar Breakfast included.
Day 13: Drive back from Shigatse to Lhasa Conclude your journey with a drive back to Lhasa.
Drive back from Shigatse to Lhasa. Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
Drive back from Shigatse to Lhasa Conclude your journey with a drive back to Lhasa. This return trip allows for a final chance to enjoy the picturesque Tibetan landscape and reflect on the incredible experiences of the past days. As you approach Lhasa, you’ll have the opportunity to relax and prepare for your departure from this fascinating region. Overnight in Kyichu Hotel or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast included.
Day 14: Fly back to Kathmandu from Lhasa You will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight to Kathmandu.
Fly back to Kathmandu, enjoy a farewell dinner at a Nepali restaurant, and receive your trip certificate. Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
Fly back to Kathmandu from Lhasa You will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight to Kathmandu. This marks the end of your journey through Tibet, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the cultural and spiritual experiences you’ve had. Upon landing in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, you will celebrate the trip with a farewell dinner in a fine traditional Nepali restaurant. Overnight in Hotel Thamel House or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast and farewell dinner included
Day 15: Day 15: Transfer to the International Airport for your Final Departure As our incredible adventure through the breathtak
Transfer to the International Airport for your Final Departure.
Day 15: Transfer to the International Airport for your Final Departure As our incredible adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Tibet and Nepal draws to a close, it’s time to bid farewell. To ensure a smooth and comfortable departure, one of our dedicated airport representatives will accompany you to the International Airport, assisting with any final arrangements as you prepare for your journey back home. Breakfast included.