Tibet to Kashgar Overland Tour: The Overland Tour from Tibet to Kashgar presents a remarkable opportunity to immerse oneself in the vast wilderness of the Tibetan Plateau, offering a truly unique experience.
Embarking on this tour, you will spend several days in Lhasa, where you’ll have the chance to explore the cultural gems of the city. Visiting prominent landmarks such as the awe-inspiring Potala Palace, the revered Jokhang Temple, the serene Norbulingka (known as the Summer Palace), the serene Sera Monastery, and the historically significant Drepung Monastery, you’ll delve deep into the heart of Tibetan spirituality and heritage.
From Lhasa, your journey continues along the Friendship Highway towards the legendary Mount Everest Base Camp. En route, you’ll visit the charming town of Gyantse, the bustling city of Shigatse, the sacred Sakya Monastery, the magnificent Mount Everest base camp, the awe-inspiring Mount Kailash, and the enigmatic Guge Kingdom.
At the Everest Base Camp, a night awaits you in the cozy tent guest house near Rongbuk Monastery, allowing you to savor the unique atmosphere of this remote location. Afterward, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Mount Kailash, where an unforgettable three-day trek around the Holy Mountain awaits you, offering a spiritual and physical journey of a lifetime. Concluding your exploration of Mount Kailash, you’ll proceed to visit the mesmerizing ruins of the Guge Kingdom, delving into the remnants of an ancient civilization.
As the Tibet to Kashgar Overland tour nears its end, you’ll embark on a captivating drive through the majestic Karakoram mountain range, ultimately arriving in Kashgar, your final destination. This picturesque journey encapsulates the essence of adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty, providing you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Tour Itinerary of Tibet to Kashgar Overland Tour
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa
Upon your arrival in Lhasa, our knowledgeable tour guide will greet you either at the train station or the airport and accompany you to your hotel. It is recommended to take some rest in your hotel to acclimatize to the high altitude of Tibet. If you have free time, you can explore the vibrant Barkhor street and visit the revered Jokhang Temple.
Day 2: Lhasa Guided Tour
In the morning, we will visit the sacred Jokhang Temple, which is considered the holiest Buddhist temple in the Inner Himalaya region. Founded in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo, it houses the revered statue of Lord Buddha. Witness the devout pilgrims as they prostrate and circumambulate around the temple.
In the afternoon, we will explore the Sera Monastery, one of the three largest monasteries in Lhasa. Established by the disciple of Je Tsongkhapa, it is known for the lively debates on Tibetan Buddhist philosophy among the monks. You can observe these debates in the debating courtyard, allowing mobile phone photography.
Day 3: Lhasa Guided Tour
In the morning, we will visit the iconic Potala Palace, a magnificent structure with over 1,000 rooms that towers above the city of Lhasa. Originally built in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo, it was later expanded and reconstructed by the fifth Dalai Lama. The palace served as the winter residence for successive Dalai Lamas and the administrative center of the Tibetan government.
In the afternoon, we will explore the Drepung Monastery, one of the largest monastic complexes in Tibet. During the early 20th century, it was the largest monastery in the world. Take a leisurely circuit around the monastery, enjoying the breathtaking views it offers.
Day 4: Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Karola Glacier - Gyantse
Distance: 263km Drive: 6 hours
We will start our journey in the morning, leaving Lhasa after breakfast. Around 11:00 am, we will reach the Kampa-la pass (4,700 m) where we will pause to appreciate the picturesque view of Yamdrok Lake and Mount Nojin Kangsang (7,191 meters). Descending to the lake shore, we’ll have some time to admire its beauty.
Continuing our drive, we will reach the town of Nangartse for lunch, passing along the scenic shore of Yamdrok Lake with potential bird-watching opportunities. After lunch, we will proceed to Gyantse, making a stop at the Karola Glacier. Arriving in Gyantse around 3:00 pm, we will check into our hotel and visit the Gyantse Palchoe Monastery and Kumbum Stupa. If time permits, we can also explore the Gyantse Fort.
Day 5: Drive from Gyantse to Shigatse via Shalu Monastery
Distance: 95 km Drive: 2 hours 30 minutes
We will depart from Gyantse at around 9:00 am, taking a moment outside the town for a picturesque photo opportunity capturing the monastery, stupa, and fort. Continuing our journey, we will visit the often overlooked Shalu Monastery, known for its unique Newari-style paintings.
After exploring Shalu Monastery, we will proceed to Shigatse. On arrival, we will visit the grand Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, which was founded by the first Dalai Lama and serves as the official residence of the Panchen Lama. Afterward, we will check into our hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax, while we arrange the permit for the Everest Base Camp.
Day 6: Drive to New Tingri via Sakya Monastery
Distance: 286 km Drive: 7 hours
Today, we will depart early to allow ample time to explore Sakya Monastery. Taking the Friendship Road from the Tibetan town of Lhatse, we will detour to visit Sakya Monastery, the main monastery of the Sakyapa school of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery’s medieval fort-like structure and unique architecture make it a captivating sight. After immersing ourselves in the beauty of Sakya Monastery, we will continue driving to New Tingri, where we will spend the night before heading to Everest Base Camp.
Day 7: Drive to Everest Base Camp
Distance: 110 km Drive: 4 hours
To witness the sunrise over the majestic Himalayas and Mount Everest, we will start our journey early, before daybreak. We recommend leaving before sunrise to fully experience the breathtaking scenery. Upon reaching Rongbuk Monastery, we will switch to an Eco Electric bus and take a moment to rest at our Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse before proceeding to Everest Base Camp.
We will spend the night either at the Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse or a tent guesthouse at Everest Base Camp. Staying at the Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse is recommended due to occasional smoke in the tents. If you experience any altitude-related issues, we can return to Tingri, so please inform us in advance.
Day 8: Everest—Peiku Lake—Saga
Distance: 300 km Elevation: 4,500 m
Wake up early to witness the stunning sunrise over Everest. We will then drive past Shishapangma and make our way to the enchanting alpine beauty of Peiku Lake. Along the drive, you will be treated to magnificent views of Himalayan peaks exceeding 7,000 meters, and if fortunate, you might spot wildlife. After visiting the lake, we will continue our journey to Saga, where we will stay in the last good hotel with hot running water. From this point onward, accommodations and food will be minimal.
Day 9: Saga to Darchen
Distance: 520 km Elevation: 5,000m
Today marks the beginning of an extraordinary adventure into the western wilderness of Tibet. As we travel 520 kilometers, we will witness the awe-inspiring landscape of the Tibetan Plateau, following the course of the Yarlung Tsangpo River. Our destination is Darchen, the basecamp for the Mount Kailash trek. Along the way, we recommend meditating by the shores of Manasarovar Lake, one of the holiest lakes in Tibet, known for its spiritual significance in Hinduism.
Day 10-12: Trekking around Mount Kailash
Distance: 54 km Max Elevation: 5,630m
Prepare for the highlight of the tour as we embark on a three-day trek around Mount Kailash. The trekking route covers a distance of 54 kilometers and reaches a maximum elevation of 5,630 meters. The accommodations and facilities along the trek are minimal. It is essential for group members to stick together, supporting one another throughout the challenging and steep sections of the trek. After each day’s trek, it is advisable to rest and recharge in order to cope with the high altitude.
On the first day, we will trek approximately 20 kilometers from Darchen to Dira Puk Monastery, following the ancient pilgrimage route with Tibetan Buddhist and Indian Hindu pilgrims. Accommodations will be provided in a small guesthouse near the monastery, situated at an elevation of 5,080m.
The second day will take us over the Dolma La Pass, the highest pass on the circuit at 5,630 meters. Throughout the day, we will be rewarded with breathtaking mountain and glacier views. Descending from the pass, we will reach Zutul Puk Monastery, located at an elevation of 4,820 meters. The total trekking distance for this day is 18 kilometers.
On the third and final day of the trek, we will cover 14 kilometers from Zutul Puk Monastery back to the town of Darchen. After completing the trek, we will return to the shores of scenic Lake Manasarovar for a final night. Don’t miss the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate by soaking in the mineral-rich hot spring.
Day 13: Manasarovar Lake to Guge Kingdom
Distance: 254 km Elevation: 3,699 m
Leaving Lake Manasarovar, we will embark on a five-hour drive to the Ruins of Guge Kingdom. The kingdom was established by Tibetan kings as a trading hub along the ancient Silk Road, but its glory eventually faded due to military campaigns and political changes. We will explore the ruins, including Tholing Monastery, which played a significant role in the revival of Tibetan Buddhism.
Day 14: Guge Kingdom to Siquanhe
Distance: 255 km Elevation: 4,255m
Our journey continues as we visit Tholing Monastery in Zanda, built in 996 by the second king of Guge Kingdom. This monastery holds great historical and religious importance in Tibet. After the monastery visit, we will travel 255 kilometers to Siquanhe for our overnight stay.
Day 15: Siquanhe to Rutog via Pangong-tso Lake
Distance: 117 km Elevation: 4,260m
Today, we will drive 117 kilometers to Rutog, with a stop at the breathtaking Pangong-tso Lake. This scenic lake is renowned for its beauty and hosts the world’s highest bird island. Take your time to admire the surroundings before we continue our journey toward Rutog.
Day 16: Rutog – Domar - Dahonliutan
Distance: 518 km Elevation: 4,200 m
Leaving Tibet Autonomous Region, we will cross into the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Driving through Jieshan Pass, we will cover a distance of 518 kilometers to reach Dahonliutan. This region is often referred to as the “Roof of the World.”
Day 17: Dahonliutan to Yecheng
Distance: 499 km Elevation: 1,375 m
From Dahonliutan, we will travel to Yecheng, covering a distance of 499 kilometers. Along the way, we will encounter several high passes, including Heika Pass, Kudi Pass, and Maza Pass. Enjoy the magnificent views of the Kunlun Mountain range during the journey. We will spend the night in Yecheng.
Day 18: Yecheng to Kashgar
Distance: 285 km Elevation: 1,278 m
Today, we will embark on a 285-kilometer journey from Yecheng to Kashgar. As we travel through the stunning landscapes of the Gobi Desert’s sand dunes, immerse yourself in the unique surroundings.
Day 19: Exploration around Kashgar
Distance: 285 km Elevation: 1,278m
We will spend the day exploring the highlights of Kashgar. Our first stop will be the Apak Hoja Tomb (Xiangfei Mu), an impressive Islamic architectural complex. Next, we will visit the bustling Uyghur Bazaar, renowned as the largest market in Central Asia. After enjoying lunch, we will explore the historic old town of Kashgar and visit the grand Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in China.
Day 20: Departure from Kashgar
On this day, you will depart from Kashgar for your next destination. Our tour guide and driver will accompany you to ensure a smooth departure.
Conclusion of the Tibet to Kashgar Overland Tour
Thank you for considering the Tibet to Kashgar Overland Tour. We understand that finding travel partners for this specific tour can be challenging, as it is typically operated as a private tour. However, if you express your interest in finding travel companions, we will do our utmost to assist you in connecting with like-minded travelers.
We highly recommend ensuring proper acclimatization in Lhasa before embarking on this tour. Tibet’s high elevation requires careful adjustment to prevent altitude sickness. If you wish to extend your stay and allow more time for acclimatization, we can customize your itinerary by including visits to Nyingchi prefecture or Lhokha prefecture. This will provide you with additional opportunities to adapt to the high altitude and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Tibet.
It is important to note that international visitors are not obligated to join a group tour. According to Tibet travel regulations, you have the flexibility to organize your tour independently. If you choose to do so, you can hire a local Tibetan tour guide, arrange for a private vehicle, and obtain the necessary Tibet travel permit through a reputable local travel agency in Tibet.
We hope that this tour will provide you with an unforgettable experience, immersing you in the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of Tibet and Kashgar. Please feel free to reach out to us for any further assistance or customization requests.
FAQs of the Tibet to Kashgar Overland Tour
Is it necessary to acclimatize in Lhasa before starting the tour?
Yes, it is highly recommended to spend a few days in Lhasa to acclimatize to the high altitude of Tibet. This will help prevent altitude sickness and ensure a more enjoyable journey throughout the tour.
Can I join a group tour for the Tibet to Kashgar Overland Tour?
While this tour is primarily operated as a private tour, we can assist you in finding travel companions if you prefer to join a group. However, please note that it can be challenging to find fellow travelers for this specific tour.
Are there options to extend the tour for additional acclimatization time?
Absolutely! If you feel the need for more time to adjust to the high elevation, we can customize your itinerary by adding visits to Nyingchi prefecture or Lhokha prefecture. These regions offer stunning landscapes and provide an opportunity for further acclimatization.
Can I organize the tour independently without joining a group?
Yes, according to Tibet travel regulations, it is possible to organize the tour independently. You can hire a local Tibetan tour guide, arrange for a private vehicle, and obtain the necessary Tibet travel permit through a reliable local travel agency in Tibet.
What are the highlights of this tour apart from the scenic landscapes?
In addition to the breathtaking landscapes, this tour offers visits to significant cultural and historical sites. You will explore iconic landmarks such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Tashi Lhunpo Monastery. The tour also includes experiences like witnessing monks debating at Sera Monastery and visiting ancient monastic complexes like Drepung Monastery and Guge Kingdom ruins.
Responsible Tourism of Tibet to Kashgar Overland Tour
At our core, we are a Tibetan-owned and Tibetan-staffed company, dedicated to promoting responsible tourism practices throughout our operations. We believe in supporting the local community and preserving the unique cultural heritage and natural environment of Tibet. Here’s how we prioritize responsible tourism on this tour:
- Local Tibetan Guides and Drivers: We take pride in employing local Tibetans as guides and drivers. Our team members have extensive knowledge of the region, its history, and its traditions. By engaging local professionals, we ensure authentic experiences while supporting the local economy and providing employment opportunities to Tibetans.
- Support for Tibetan-Owned Businesses: As part of our commitment to responsible tourism, we prioritize collaborating with Tibetan-owned businesses. During this tour, all the hotels we have selected for your stay in Tibet are locally-owned establishments. By choosing these accommodations, we contribute to the economic growth and sustainability of the local community.
- Culture Preservation: Preserving the rich cultural heritage of Tibet is of utmost importance to us. We strive to create meaningful interactions with local communities, fostering respect for their traditions and ways of life. Through immersive experiences at monasteries, temples, and cultural sites, we promote cultural understanding while encouraging responsible visitor behavior that respects local customs and sensitivities.
- Environmental Protection: We recognize the significance of protecting Tibet’s pristine environment. When we are not organizing journeys, we actively engage in eco-tourism and conservation projects in collaboration with local Tibetans. We encourage responsible practices such as minimizing waste generation, conserving water and energy, and respecting the fragile ecosystems we encounter during the tour.
By choosing to travel with us, you are actively contributing to responsible tourism initiatives that empower the local Tibetan community, preserve their cultural heritage, and safeguard the natural wonders of Tibet. Together, we can make a positive impact on the region while creating unforgettable experiences for you as a responsible traveler.
