Plateau crossing · Great towns
Lhasa Overland Tour from Kathmandu
The classic overland to Lhasa via Yamdrok Lake, Gyantse and Shigatse — without the Everest detour.
The journey
What makes it unforgettable.
A slightly gentler cousin of the EBC overland, this route follows the Friendship Highway to Lhasa taking in the plateau's finest towns and lakes, but without the higher Everest side-trip.
You'll cross the Kamba La to the electric-turquoise Yamdrok Lake, visit the tiered Kumbum stupa at Gyantse and the great Tashilhunpo monastery at Shigatse, then arrive in Lhasa for its palaces and temples.
The gradual climb east aids acclimatisation, and every permit and logistic of overland Tibet travel is arranged for you.
Duration
13 days
Max altitude
4,990 m (Kamba La)
Grade
Easy–Moderate
Style
Overland
Trip cost
from USD 1,970/ person
Bespoke departures · flexible dates
Trip highlights
Day by day
Your itinerary.
- 1
Day 1–2
Kathmandu
Arrival and permits.
- 2
Day 3
To the border
Overland to the Tibet frontier.
- 3
Day 4–5
Onto the plateau
Nyalam and Tingri with acclimatisation.
- 4
Day 6
Shigatse
Tashilhunpo monastery.
- 5
Day 7
Gyantse
The Kumbum stupa and fortress.
- 6
Day 8
Yamdrok Lake → Lhasa
Over the Kamba La to the lake, then into Lhasa.
- 7
Day 9–11
Lhasa
Potala, Jokhang, Sera and Drepung.
- 8
Day 12
Fly to Kathmandu
Return over the Himalaya.
- 9
Day 13
Depart
Transfer for your onward flight.
What's included
- Tibet travel permits & visa support
- Overland transport & return flight
- Hotels, guesthouses and guide
- Monument fees and listed meals
Ready for Lhasa Overland Tour from Kathmandu?
Tell us your dates and preferences — we'll shape a private itinerary and handle every permit, flight and detail from Kathmandu onward.
