From the sacred peaks of Tibet to lush green Nepalese valleys, explore the best of the Himalaya on this two-week tour. Discover mighty temples and small outposts on a journey that offers incredible vistas at every turn of the trail. Our expert Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) will take the hassle out of planning and help you find the secluded spots only the locals know — and leave you with time to explore. In the thin mountain air of Rongbuk, the highest monastery in the world, you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of Mt Everest. So make sure your camera is charged — you’re going to need it.
Itinerary
Day 1 Kathmandu
There are no planned activities for today except for a welcome meeting in the early evening, followed by an optional dinner.
Day 2 Kathmandu
Take an orientation walk in Durbar Square before visiting the Sisterhood of Survivors Project, a grassroots organization. Meet some of the women and learn how to make Nepalese momos (dumplings) before enjoying an authentic local lunch. In the evening, enjoy free time to explore the fascinating city. (L)
Day 3 Kathmandu/Panauti
Depart for a community homestay in Panauti. Choose to disembark in Sanga and hike the remaining way to the village or continue via private vehicle. Explore the village then help cook an authentic Nepalese dinner. (D)
Day 4 Panauti/Lhasa
Take an afternoon flight to Lhasa and spend three days exploring Lhasa, adjusting to the altitude, and learning more about the unique culture here. With a relaxed pace to allow for the effects of altitude, explore this fantastic city on ‘the roof of the world’ over three days. Don’t miss one of the evening debating sessions with the monks.
Day 5 Lhasa
Enjoy an orientation walk around Barkhor Square and guided tour of the Jokhang Temple. In the afternoon explore Sera Monastery.
Day 6 Lhasa
Explore the grounds of Potala Palace where the Dalai Lamas would meditate. Later, visit the Dalai Lama’s Summer Palace, Norbulingka.
Day 7 Lhasa/Gyantse
Drive to Gyantse along beautiful Yamdrok Tso.
Day 8 Gyantse/Xêgar
In the morning, visit Pelkor Chode Monastery and Gyantse Kumbum. After breakfast, depart for Xȇgar. On the way, make a stop in Sakya and explore the Sakya Monastery.
Day 9 Xêgar/Rongpu Si
Visit Rongbuk, the highest monastery in the world. Hike to Everest Base Camp for a closer view of this magnificent mountain.
Day 10 Rongpu Si/Shigatse
Travel from Rongbuk Si to Shigatse.
Day 11 Shigatse
Enjoy a visit to the Tashilunpo Monastery and opt to complete the surrounding kora. In the afternoon, enjoy free time visiting the local market or exploring the scenic city.
Lined with prayer wheels, follow the pilgrims on their kora around Tashilunpo Monastery. This sacred walk provides stunning views of the monastery and town below.
Day 12 Shigatse/Lhasa
Travel back to Lhasa.
Day 13 Lhasa/Kathmandu
Fly back to Kathmandu and enjoy a final evening in the city.
Day 14 Kathmandu
Depart any time.
GAD-ANRT
Images courtesy of G-Adventures