Days: 1: Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport Kathmandu
After arriving in Kathmandu, a representative from Nepal New Generation will pick us up from the airport and take us to our hotel. In the afternoon, we may take a rest or visit Nepal New Generation’s office. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by Nepal New Generation. For dinner, you will be served authentic Nepalese cuisine which will introduce you to the country’s food culture. Overnight in Kathmandu. Included meals:Dinne
Days: 2: 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.
Days: 3: Biometrics for Visa processing and Sightseeing
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.
Days: 4: Visa Collection and Sightseeing
Max. Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft 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. Overnight in Hotel Thamel House or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast included.
Days: 5: Free Day and Pre-Trip Meeting
Max. Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft) 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. Overnight in Hotel Thamel House or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast included.
Days: 6: Fly to Lhasa Max. Altitude: Lhasa (3,656 m / 11,995 ft)
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. Overnight in Kyichu Hotel or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast included.
Days: 7: First day of Sightseeing in Lhasa Max. Altitude: Lhasa (3,656 m / 11,995 ft)
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. Overnight in Kyichu Hotel or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast included.
Days: 8: Second day of Sightseeing in Lhasa Max. Altitude: Lhasa (3,656 m / 11,995 ft)
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. Overnight in Kyichu Hotel or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast included.
Days: 9: Drive from Lhasa to Gyantse Max. Altitude: Kora La (5,010 m / 16,433 ft)
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. Overnight in Yutub Hotel or a similar-class hotel. Breakfast included.
Days: 10: Drive from Gyantse to Shigatse Max. Altitude: Shigatse (3,900 m / 12,795 ft)
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. Overnight in Tashi Chodak or Gesar Hotel Breakfast included.
Days: 11: Drive from Shigatse to Rongbuk Max. Altitude: Rongbuk Monastery (4,980 m / 16,335 ft)
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. Overnight at a Tented Guesthouse Breakfast included.
Days: 12: 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.
Days: 13: 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.
Days: 14: 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
Days: 15 Departure transfer to Kathmandu airport
The airport representative from Nepal New Generation Family will transport you to Kathmandu International Airport around 3 hours before your scheduled flight from where you will depart. Meals: Breakfast included.