Highlights Of Tibet

13 Days - from $3220

A spectacular journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu via Everest Base Camp

Traversing high passes, crossing the stark but spectacular Tibetan plateau to Everest Base Camp, with amazing views of the massive north face of Everest, and descending deep gorges to the lush green valleys of Nepal, this route enjoys some of the most amazing scenery to be found anywhere in the world. With breathtaking views of some of the highest Himalayan peaks this is one of the world's classic road journeys. However, crossing the Tibetan plateau is only part of the experience - equally as important as the landscape and scenery is the wealth of cultural interest which Tibet has to offer. In the inspirational Forbidden City of Lhasa we find the very heart of Tibetan Buddhism - the Potala Palace and the Jokhang are places where the monastic rituals and traditional way of life are enacted in one of the most fascinating environments on earth. The Tibetan Buddhist culture combined with the warmth and friendliness of the Tibetan people make this a truly unforgettable journey.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Kathmandu. 2 Explore the temples of Pashupatinath and Bodnath. 3 Morning flight to Gonggar Airport, Tibet. Drive to Tsedang, visit Yumbu Lakhang. 4 By ferry across Tibet's great river, the Yarlung Tsang Po. To Samye Monastery and Lhasa. 5-6 Visit the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Sera and Drepung Monasteries; free time to explore. 7 Cross the Yarlung Tsang Po, and climb to Khamba La; follow shore of Scorpion Lake and over Karo La (5010m) to Gyantse. 8 Visit Kumbum Stupa and Pelke Chode Monastery. Drive to Shigatse; visit Tashilunpo Monastery and the fascinating bazaar. 9 Continue via small villages to Lhatze; across high altitude moorland to New Tingri. 10 To Rongbuk Monastery; visit Everest Base Camp. 11 Cross Tingri Plain and Tong La (5050m), with magnificent views of Shishmapangma and other Himalayan peaks; to Zhangmu. 12 Leave Tibet and cross into Nepal; to Kathmandu. 13 End Kathmandu.

Mode of travel: Travel by private minibus, landcruisers and flight. Some long journeys, plus travel at altitude.
Group size: Min. 8, max. 16, plus leader, drivers and local guide.
Accommodation: 10 nights hotels, 2 nights basic guest house
Food: All breakfasts are included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $519.75
Trip Reference: ACB
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.