Highlights Of Tibet

13 Days - from $3123

One of the world's most spectacular road journeys, from the Forbidden City of Lhasa through the Himalaya to Kathmandu

Traversing high passes, crossing the stark but spectacular Tibetan Plateau 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. However the road journey is only part of the experience: we begin with a dramatic flight over the Himalaya and a visit to Samye Monastery, the oldest foundation in Tibet, before driving to Lhasa where we spend three days exploring the inspirational Forbidden City. The Potala and many more of Tibet's important temples and monasteries have now been restored, and the fascinating 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 Gyangtse. 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. 11 Visit Everest Base Camp; cross Tingri Plain and Tong La (5050m), with magnificent views of Shishmapangma and other Himalayan peaks; to Nyalam. 12 Leave Tibet and cross into Nepal; to Kathmandu. 13 End Kathmandu.

Mode of travel: travel by private minibus, landcruisers and internal flight. Some long journeys, plus travel at altitude.
Group size: min. 8, max. 16, plus leader, drivers and local guide.
Accommodation: 12 nights hotels.
Food: 12 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 8 dinners included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $374.22
Trip Reference: ACB
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.