Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse Tibet Tour (Drive In Fly Out Tour)

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The 8-days  Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse Tibet Tour (Drive In Fly Out Tour) from Kathmandu to Lhasa takes you through the rich cultural, spiritual, and scenic heart of Tibet. Beginning with a drive through the Nepal–Tibet border at Kerung, you’ll traverse high-altitude landscapes, ancient monasteries, and Tibetan settlements before reaching the mystical capital city of Lhasa. The route includes major cultural hubs like Shigatse, Gyantse, and sacred Yamdrok Lake, offering an unforgettable blend of history, spirituality, and Himalayan grandeur. You return to Kathmandu with a breathtaking flight over the Himalayas.

Trip Facts
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Lhasa
Activities
Tour
Accomodation
Hotels / Guest House
Meals
Breakfast
Best Time
April - November

Highlights of Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse Tibet Tour (Drive In Fly Out Tour)

  • Scenic overland journey from Kathmandu to Lhasa via Kerung, Tingri, and Shigatse
  • Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, seat of the Panchen Lama in Shigatse
  • Explore Gyantse Dzong and the remarkable Kumbum Stupa
  • Marvel at Yamdrok Lake, Karo La Glacier, and dramatic high passes
  • Guided tours of Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street in Lhasa
  • Attend monk debates at Sera Monastery and visit Drepung Monastery
  • Return to Kathmandu by scenic trans-Himalayan flight from Lhasa

Outline Itinerary

Itinerary
Day 01:Drive from Kathmandu - Kerung Border
Max Altitude
2,770m / 9,087ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 02:Kerung - Tingri (4300m)
Max Altitude
4,300m / 14,107ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 03:Tingri - Lhatse (4050 m) - Shigatse (3900 m)
Max Altitude
3,900m / 12,795ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 04:Shigatse - Gyantse
Max Altitude
3,950m / 12,959ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 05:Gyantse - Lhasa
Max Altitude
3,650m / 11,975ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 06:Sightseeing In Lhasa
Max Altitude
3,650m / 11,975ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 07:Sightseeing In Lhasa
Max Altitude
3,650m / 11,975ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 08:Departure and fly towards your destination
Max Altitude
-
Walking/Hiking
-

Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse Tibet Tour (Drive In Fly Out Tour) Detailed Itinerary

Starts: Kathmandu
Ends: Lhasa

Altitude Chart

Unit:

Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse Tibet Tour (Drive In Fly Out Tour): Cost Details

Includes

  • Private transfer from Kathmandu - Kerung Border
  • Transfer from Kerung border - Tibet - Lhasa Airport 
  • Accommodation in twin sharing basis as per the itinerary on BB basis.
  • English Speaking Tibetan Guide
  • Transportation as per the itinerary in private vehicle
  • Monastery Entrance Fee as per the itinerary
  • Tibet Travel Permit
  • All necessary government taxes and fees

Excludes

  • Airfare ( Lhasa  - KTM)
  • Personal equipment
  • Personal and medical insurance
  • Travel Insurance
  • Lunch & Dinner during the tour
  • Personal Expenses (Laundry services, Telephone call, Alcoholic and Nonalcoholic drinks, hot stone Bath.
  • Bar bills and drinks (mineral water, soft drink, beers, etc.)
  • Unforeseen expenses caused by uncontrollable circumstances such as flight cancellations or delays, blocked roads, weather conditions, natural disasters, altitude sickness, early termination or return of the program, etc.
  • Tips
  • Any other expenses not mentioned in INCLUDED

Dates & Availability

Our online briefing is designed to answer all your questions about the trek. We’ll go over the gear you’ll need (equipment checklist), provide a detailed itinerary, and explain what you can expect on the trail. After you book your trip, we’ll send you an email with available briefing dates and times. Once we receive your required documents, we’ll schedule and conduct the online trek briefing.

Essential Information

For a smooth and enriching Tibet tour, it's essential to understand permit requirements, altitude preparedness, and cultural etiquette. Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition will handle all logistics—permits, guides, and travel arrangements. Inquire with us for complete details and personalized assistance. 

Some Useful Information for your guided Tibet Tour:

Tibet Travel Permits & Visa Requirements

  • Tibet Travel Permit is mandatory for all foreign travelers. You cannot enter Tibet without it.
  • If you are entering Tibet from Nepal, you need a Group Chinese Visa, issued by the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. Your tour operator will arrange this along with the permit.
  • Independent travel is not allowed; you must book a tour through a registered agency

How to Get to Tibet from Nepal?

There are two main ways to travel from Nepal to Tibet: by air and by land. Both routes offer stunning Himalayan views and are arranged through a registered travel agency, as independent travel is not allowed in Tibet.

1. By Air – Kathmandu to Lhasa Flight

The most popular and fastest option is the direct flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa.

  • Flight duration: approx. 1 - 1.5 hour. This is one of the most scenic flights in the world, flying over the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days.

2. By Road – Overland from Kathmandu to Lhasa

  • Travel overland via Rasuwagadhi–Kerung Border (the current open route). The drive from Kathmandu to Kerung takes about 7–8 hours (130 km). After crossing into Tibet, the journey continues through towns like Gyirong, Shigatse, Gyantse, and finally to Lhasa.
  • The full overland trip typically takes 6 to 7 days, allowing gradual acclimatization and cultural exploration along the way.

When is the Best Time to Visit Tibet ?

The best months are April to August and September to November for clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

Winter (Dec–Feb) is cold but offers fewer tourists and great photography opportunities.

Accommodation during Tibet Tour

  • Available from basic guesthouses to comfortable 3-star, 4-star & 5 star hotels in Lhasa.
  • Outside Lhasa, facilities may be basic.

Altitude & Acclimatization during Tibet Tour

  • Lhasa is at 3650 meters, so mild altitude sickness is common.
  • Spend the first day resting, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and walk slowly.
  • Consult your doctor if you have heart or lung conditions.

Culture & Etiquette to be maintained during Tibet Tour

  • Tibetans are deeply religious; respect local customs, especially in monasteries.
  • Ask before taking photos of people or inside temples.
  • Avoid stepping over religious items or prayer flags.

Foods available during Tibet Tour

  • Tibetan food includes noodles, yak meat, butter tea, and momos (dumplings).
  • Lhasa has a mix of Tibetan, Chinese, Indian, and Western food options.
  • Vegetarian food is available but limited in remote areas.

Language Spoken in Tibet

  • Tibetan is the local language, but many also speak Mandarin Chinese.
  • English is spoken by most guides, especially in Lhasa and major tourist areas.

Currency used in Tibet

  • The currency is Chinese Yuan (CNY).
  • ATMs are available in Lhasa but rare outside. Bring some cash for rural areas.

Connectivity during Tibet Tour

  • Wi-Fi is available in most hotels in Lhasa.
  • Internet access is restricted—many websites (Google, WhatsApp, Facebook, etc.) are blocked in China/Tibet. Use a VPN if needed.

Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse Tibet Tour (Drive In Fly Out Tour) FAQs

Yes. If you are entering Tibet from Nepal, you need a Tibet Travel Permit and a Group Visa issued by the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. Your tour operator will arrange these documents on your behalf.

You will take a scenic Trans-Himalayan flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa (Gonggar Airport). This flight offers spectacular views of the Himalayan range, including Mt. Everest on clear days.

The best seasons are Spring, Summer and Autumn (April– November). 

Lhasa is at an altitude of 3,650 meters, and some travelers may experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness. It’s advised to rest on the first day, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity.

You will stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Lhasa, with amenities such as private bathrooms, hot water, Wi-Fi, and breakfast (BB plan). Hotels can be upgraded to 4 or 5 star in Lhasa. 

Yes, but due to the altitude, it’s recommended that seniors and children consult a doctor before the trip. The itinerary is moderate and includes proper acclimatization time.

You will visit:

  • Potala Palace
  • Jokhang Temple
  • Barkhor Bazaar
  • Drepung Monastery
  • Sera Monastery
  • Ganden Monastery (with a short hike)

Yes, Tibet is generally very safe for tourists. All tours are escorted by experienced Tibetan guides, and the itinerary is well-planned to ensure safety and comfort.

You can find a variety of cuisines in Lhasa, including Tibetan, Chinese, Indian, and Western food. Vegetarian options are also widely available.

No. All foreign travelers must book an organized tour with a registered travel agency, as independent travel is not allowed in Tibet.

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