Nepal Tibet Tour - 9 Days
Activity
Tour
Duration
9 Days
Grading
Easy
Max Altitude:
1,403m. / 4,603ft.
Accommodation
Hotel
Meals
Breakfast
Why Nepal Tibet Tour ?
Why Visit Kathmandu?
- Rich History & Architecture: Discover centuries-old temples, palaces, and UNESCO-listed landmarks.
- Spiritual Diversity: Witness Hindu and Buddhist traditions coexisting harmoniously.
- Cultural Immersion: Explore ancient markets, local cuisine, and traditional art forms.
- Scenic Getaways: Enjoy lush green hills, short treks, and breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayas.
Why Visit Lhasa & Xigatse?
- Spiritual Significance: Immerse yourself in Tibetan Buddhist culture and sacred sites.
- Architectural Marvels: Explore ancient monasteries, palaces, and traditional Tibetan homes.
- Natural Wonders: Witness breathtaking high-altitude landscapes, including serene lakes and Himalayan vistas.
Authentic Tibetan Culture: Experience local customs, rituals, and vibrant marketplaces.
Trip Introduction
Overview: Nepal Tibet Tour
Nepal Tibet tour is an interesting journey through two of the most historic and spiritually significant cities in the world—Kathmandu and Lhasa. This unique Nepal Tibet tour connects the vibrant capital of Nepal, rich in cultural heritage and ancient temples, with the heart and soul of Tibet, home to mesmerizing monasteries and breathtaking landscapes. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the serene, high-altitude wonders of Lhasa, this adventure is designed for travelers seeking history, spirituality, and awe-inspiring scenery.
Kathmandu Valley: A Cultural & Spiritual Hub
Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, boasts a history of over two millennia and is home to multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The valley is a treasure trove of ancient palaces, sacred temples, and vibrant markets. Notable highlights include:
- Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): A revered Buddhist stupa where Nepal was born.
- Pashupatinath Temple: A sacred Hindu site where devotees perform rituals along the Bagmati River.
- Boudhanath Stupa: The largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and a key center of Tibetan Buddhism.
- Patan Durbar Square: A historic royal palace showcasing exquisite Newari architecture.
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square: A well-preserved medieval city featuring ancient courtyards and temples.
- Ason Market & Indra Chowk: Bustling local markets offering a glimpse into daily life and traditional trade.
- Hiking in the Kathmandu Valley: Escape the city’s hustle with scenic treks to Nagarkot and Shivapuri.
- Newari Cuisine: Savor authentic Nepalese flavors with traditional dishes like momo, yomari, and Newari feasts.
- Local Festivals: Experience vibrant celebrations such as Indra Jatra and Dashain, integral to Nepalese culture.
Lhasa: The Spiritual Heart of Tibet
Situated at an altitude of 3,656 meters, Lhasa is one of the highest cities in the world and the spiritual center of Tibet. A journey here unveils Tibet’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions and spectacular landscapes.
Top Attractions in Lhasa & Beyond
- Potala Palace: A UNESCO-listed architectural masterpiece and former winter residence of the Dalai Lama.
- Jokhang Temple: Tibet’s holiest temple, attracting pilgrims from across the region.
- Barkhor Street: A lively market encircling Jokhang Temple, filled with prayer wheels and religious artifacts.
- Sera Monastery: Famous for its lively debates among Buddhist monks.
- Yamdrok Lake: A sacred turquoise lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
- Xigatse (3,800m): Tibet’s second-largest city, home to the renowned Tashilhunpo Monastery.
Plan Your Journey Today!
From Kathmandu’s rich heritage to Lhasa’s spiritual wonders, Nepal Tibet tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore two extraordinary cities. Whether you seek adventure, spirituality, or cultural discovery, Kathmandu and Lhasa promise an experience like no other. Book your journey now and step into the heart of the Himalayas!
Detail itinerary of Nepal Tibet Tour
Day 01: Arrive KATHMANDU – afternoon visit SWAYAMBHUNATH STUPAA (Hotel Check In is after 1400 hrs)
Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Our representative will greet you and assist with the hotel transfer, ensuring a smooth check-in process. Before settling in, a short trip briefing session will be arranged to discuss the itinerary and necessary formalities, including the collection of passports and submission of the Chinese Visa application to the Chinese Embassy.
Key Highlights:
Swayambhunath Stupa Visit – Explore the oldest and most significant Buddhist shrine in Kathmandu, offering a panoramic view of the valley. Also known as the “Monkey Temple,” it is an ancient symbol of peace and enlightenment.
🛂 Important: Arrive early to complete the Chinese Visa application process before 12 noon.
Activity: Arrival, Transfer & Tour: Approx. 04 hours Tour
Location: Kathmandu
Max. Altitude: 1,300m/4,265ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: NA
Day 02: Discovering the KATHMANDU VALLEY
Start the day exploring Patan, the city of fine arts, home to Patan Durbar Square—a UNESCO-listed masterpiece of royal palaces, temples, and courtyards.
Nepali Folk Musical Instrument Museum: Discover over 650 traditional instruments used by Nepal’s diverse ethnic communities.
Local Market Tour:
- Indra Chowk: A bustling marketplace dedicated to Indra, the Hindu god of rain.
- Ason Tole: A centuries-old spice and goods market filled with authentic Nepali flavors.
- Thamel: The vibrant tourist hub of Kathmandu, known for souvenirs, trekking gear, and cultural experiences.
Pashupatinath Temple: Witness the Arati ceremony, a powerful Hindu ritual at Nepal’s most sacred temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Overnight at the hotel
Activity: Tour : Approx. 8 hours
Location: Kathmandu
Max. Altitude: 1,300m/4,265ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 03: CHANGUNARAYAN TEMPLE, HIKE TO NAGARKOT & BHAKTAPUR
Changunarayan Temple: Visit the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring exquisite Lichhavi-era stone carvings.
Hike to Nagarkot (2,195m): Enjoy a scenic trek through traditional villages and lush forests. If weather permits, witness breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Discover Nepal’s best-preserved medieval city, famous for its 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, and ancient Newari architecture.
Overnight at the hotel
Activity: Tour & Hiking: Approx. 8 hours
Location: Outskirt of KATHMANDU
Max. Altitude: 1,300m/4,265ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 04: YOGA, MEDITATION, BOUDHNANATH STUPA
Morning Yoga & Meditation: Recharge with a peaceful yoga and meditation session, helping you relax before the next leg of your journey.
Boudhanath Stupa: Visit the largest and most sacred Tibetan Buddhist stupa outside Tibet, a UNESCO-listed landmark surrounded by monasteries, Tibetan prayer flags, and local artisans.
Overnight at the hotel
🛂 Important: Collect the Chinese Visa & Tibet Travel Permit from the Chinese Embassy.
Activity: Spiritual Activities and Spiritual Tour : Approx. 07 hours
Location: Kathmandu
Max. Altitude: 1,300m/4,265ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 05: Fly To LHASA (3,656 m) H9-774 0830-1205
Today, take a 2-hour scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa, enjoying spectacular aerial views of Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Yamdrok Lake.
Upon arrival at Gonggar Airport, Lhasa, complete immigration formalities and receive a traditional Tibetan welcome (Hada scarf). After a 1-hour drive along the Yarlung Tsangpo River, check into your hotel and rest for acclimatization.
Overnight at the hotel
Activity: Flight : 2 hours and travel 01 hours
Location: Lhasa
Max. Altitude: 3,650m/11,975ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 06: Tour In An Around LHASA
Drepung Monastery: Once the largest monastery in Tibet, this spiritual site offers deep insight into Tibetan Buddhism.
Sera Monastery: Witness the famous Buddhist monk debates, an exciting display of intellectual and religious discussions.
Overnight at the hotel
Activity: Tour : Approx. 06 hours
Location: Lhasa
Max. Altitude: 3,650m/11,975ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 07: Visit POTALA PALACE and JOKHANG TEMPLE
Potala Palace: The winter residence of the Dalai Lama, this 1,000-room palace is an architectural masterpiece filled with statues, murals, and religious treasures.
Jokhang Temple: The spiritual heart of Tibet, where pilgrims gather to pay homage.
Barkhor Street: Experience Tibet’s bustling traditional market, filled with authentic handicrafts and Tibetan souvenirs.
Overnight at the hotel
Activity: Tour : Approx. 06/07 hours
Location: Lhasa
Max. Altitude: 3,650m/11,975ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 08: Trip To XIGATSE
Yamdrok Lake: A sacred turquoise lake nestled between mountains, offering breathtaking views from Khamba La Pass (4,791m).
Gyantse & Kumbum Monastery: Visit Gyantse, home to the unique Kumbum Stupa, a blend of Nepali and Tibetan architectural styles.
Overnight at the hotel
Activity: Drive : Approx. 8 hrs
Location: Xigatse
Max. Altitude: 3,900m/12,795ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 09: TASHILHUNPO MONASTERY-Return to LHASA
Tashilhunpo Monastery: One of Tibet’s largest monasteries, home to the largest gilded statue of the Future Buddha.
Drive back to Lhasa via Northern Route: Enjoy stunning views of Tibetan villages, mountain ranges, and rivers.
Overnight at the hotel
Activity: Tour & Drive: Approx. 7 hours
Location: Lhasa
Max. Altitude: 3,650m/11,975ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 10: Fly back to KATHMANDU (Hotel Check In Time Is After 1400 hrs)
Transfer to Gonggar Airport which takes around 01-hour journey
Flight to Kathmandu: A scenic 2-hour flight back to Nepal.
Airport Transfer & Kathmandu Stay: Upon arrival, meet our assistant and transfer to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Overnight at the hotel
Activity: Airport, Flight, Hotel : Approx. 03.30 hours
Location: Kathmandu
Max. Altitude: 1,300m/4,265ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 11: DEPARTURE
As your Kathmandu to Lhasa journey comes to an end, our representative will transfer you to the airport according to your flight schedule. Depart with unforgettable memories of the spiritual wonders of Nepal and Tibet.
Activity: Airport transfer : Approx. 30 minutes
Location: Kathmandu
Max. Altitude: 1,300m/4,265ft.
Accommodation: Hotel (Check Out Before 12 Noon)
Meal: Breakfast
Need assistance with booking your trip? Inquire Now
Inclusions in Nepal Tibet Tour
Kathmandu:
- 5 nights twin sharing accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
- Sightseeing tours with local Guide
- Private transportation during the tour
- Entrance fee during sightseeing tours
- Arrival/Departure transfers
Lhasa:
- 4 nights twin sharing accommodation in Lhasa with breakfast
- Sightseeing tours with local Guide
- Private transportation during the tour
- Entrance fee during sightseeing tours
- Tibet Travel Permit
- Arrival/Departure transfers
Trip Excludes
- Nepal entry Visa
- Meals (Lunch & Dinner)
- Kathmandu-Lhasa-Kathmandu flight fare
- Tibet Visa Fee
- Travel Insurance
- Travel Gear
- International flight tickets
- Any extra cost involved due to political issues, natural disasters, epidemics, flight cancellations or sickness
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusions box
Trip Information
Duration: 10 Nights / 11 Days
This journey combines the cultural and spiritual exploration of Kathmandu with an immersive Tibet tour, including the stunning landscapes of Lhasa and Xigatse.
Tour Highlights:
✔ Kathmandu Exploration: Ancient palaces, sacred sites, and nature hikes
✔ Lhasa & Xigatse: Visit Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Sera & Drepung Monasteries, and Tashilhunpo Monastery
✔ Himalayan Landscapes: Enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Everest, Yamdrok Lake, and high-altitude passes
✔ Tibetan Culture: Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist rituals and traditions
Nepal Visa Requirements
- Visa on Arrival: Available at Kathmandu Airport
- Online Application: Fill out the form at immigration.gov.np before arrival
- Visa Fees:
- 15 days: $30
- 30 days: $50
- 90 days: $120
- Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months
Chinese Visa & Tibet Travel Permit Requirements
Special Visa Rules for Travelers from Kathmandu
- A Chinese visa obtained in other countries is NOT valid for entry into Tibet from Nepal.
- A Group Visa is issued for all travelers entering Tibet from Nepal.
Tibet Visa Procedure in Kathmandu:
- Book your Tibet tour with a registered Nepal-based travel agency (minimum 4 travelers).
- Submit a scanned copy of your passport for the Tibet Travel Permit (takes 7 days).
- Apply for a Chinese visa at the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu after obtaining the permit.
- Visa Application Form Requirements:
- Recent passport-size color photo (45mm x 35mm, white/blue background)
- Passport submission required (takes 4 working days)
Receive the Group Visa, allowing entry and exit as a group.
Best Time to Travel from Kathmandu to Lhasa
✔ April, May, and October – Best for pleasant weather and clear mountain views.
Accommodation Details
🏨 Kathmandu: Luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels available.
🏨 Lhasa: Multiple accommodation options from luxury to budget-friendly.
🏨 Xigatse: Fewer options, but choices range from luxury to budget hotels.
Food & Meals on the Tour
🥘 Kathmandu: Diverse cuisine – Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and Western food.
🥘 Lhasa & Xigatse: Traditional Tibetan, Chinese, Indian, and Nepali meals.
🥘 En Route: Mostly Tibetan and Chinese dishes with some Western options.
Health & Safety Precautions
Vaccinations Recommended:
💉 Hepatitis A & Typhoid
💉 Tetanus booster
💉 Malaria prophylaxis (for southeastern Tibet travelers)
Water Safety:
🚰 Do NOT drink tap water. Use bottled or purified water. Avoid ice.
Altitude Sickness Precautions:
✔ Spend a few days acclimatizing in Lhasa before ascending.
✔ Drink 3-4 liters of water daily.
✔ Avoid overexertion.
✔ Symptoms to Watch For: Headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite.
✔ If symptoms worsen, descend to a lower altitude immediately.
Travel Insurance for Nepal & Tibet
🛡 Highly recommended, especially for Tibet due to high altitude and remote locations. Your policy should cover:
✔ Medical emergencies & altitude sickness treatment
✔ Evacuation (including helicopter rescue)
✔ Trip cancellations & delays
✔ Lost luggage
Flight Details: Kathmandu to Lhasa
- Flights operate Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
- Booking in advance is essential due to limited seats.
- Flight Duration: 1.5 hours
- Scenic Highlights: Aerial views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga & Makalu.
Is It Safe to Travel to Kathmandu & Lhasa?
✅ Yes! Both destinations are safe for tourists.
⚠ Lhasa: Due to high altitude, travelers must take extra precautions.
🚔 Follow local laws and travel with a registered tour operator (independent travel is restricted).
Restricted & Prohibited Items in Tibet
🚫 Do NOT bring:
❌ Weapons, ammunition, or narcotics
❌ Fresh fruit, animals, or animal products
❌ Politically sensitive materials (Tibetan independence-related publications)
Final Thoughts on Your Kathmandu to Lhasa Journey
This 11-day Kathmandu to Lhasa tour is a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual adventure, offering a deep dive into Nepalese and Tibetan culture, breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, and enriching Buddhist heritage. Whether you’re a pilgrim, nature lover, or adventure seeker, this trip guarantees unforgettable memories.
Ready to embark on your Kathmandu to Lhasa adventure? Book now!