Overview
An 8-day budget overland tour of Tibet can be an incredible adventure, allowing you to experience the unique culture, breathtaking landscapes, and spiritual sites of this remote region. Keep in mind that Tibet is a high-altitude destination, so it’s crucial to acclimatize and be prepared for the altitude. Here’s a rough itinerary for an 8-day budget tour of Tibet.
Tibet Budget tour
This 8 days overland Tibet Budget tour will follow the friendship highway to Lhasa. On the way, we will stop at the major highlighted places of Tibet, Shigatse and Gyantse. Shigatse is the second largest city of Tibet as well as the seat of Panchen Lama. Gyantse is another attraction of this tour, the city used to be one of the major trading hubs of Tibet. We visit Khumbum stupa, Gyantse Dzong and Palkor Chode Monastery in Gyantse. From Gyantse we drive to Lhasa via Yamdruk Tso (turquoise Lake). In Lhasa, we will make a two days sightseeing tour which will cover Potala Palace, Jokhang temple, Sera and Drepung Monastery. On day 8th, you will fly back to Kathmandu.
Trip Highlights
- Drepung and Sera Monasteries: These monasteries near Lhasa are among the largest and most important in Tibet. You can witness the daily debates among monks at Sera Monastery, which is quite a spectacle.
- Yamdrok Lake: On your overland journey, you'll pass by stunning alpine lakes like Yamdrok Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and the backdrop of snow-capped peaks
- Gyantse: Visit the historic town of Gyantse, known for its Gyantse Dzong and the Pelkor Chode Monastery, which houses a stunning Kumbum Stupa with hundreds of chapels.
- Shigatse: Tibet's second-largest city is home to the impressive Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama.
- Mount Everest Base Camp: The highlight of your overland tour is likely the visit to Everest Base Camp on the Tibetan side. Marvel at the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, and enjoy breathtaking views of this majestic mountain.
- Rongbuk Monastery: Located near Everest Base Camp, Rongbuk Monastery is one of the highest monasteries in the world and offers fantastic views of Mount Everest.
- Tibetan Plateau Scenery: As you travel overland, you'll witness the vast Tibetan Plateau, characterized by high-altitude deserts, grasslands, and dramatic mountain ranges.
- Local Culture: Interact with local Tibetans, learn about their unique way of life, and participate in cultural experiences, such as attending traditional Tibetan festivals or ceremonies
- Landscapes: The journey itself is a highlight as you traverse high mountain passes, cross rivers, and drive through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture the natural beauty and unique culture of Tibet through your camera lens. The landscapes and vibrant ceremonies make for incredible photos.
- Lhasa: Start your adventure in the capital city of Tibet, Lhasa. Visit the iconic Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Explore Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, and experience the unique blend of Tibetan Buddhism and culture.
