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🌍A Circular Journey Through Nepal and China: From Kathmandu's South Asian Bustle to Lhasa's Plateau Sanctity
Embark on a trans-Himalayan odyssey that delivers a striking contrast of cultures in one seamless loop—from the spice-scented chaos of Kathmandu’s streets to the spiritual serenity of Tibet’s high plateaus.Â
If you’re already traveling in Nepal, seize the opportunity to dive into Tibet’s soul directly via our website—this journey distills the region’s essence, blending the ethereal beauty of Yamdrok Lake, the majesty of the Potala Palace, the historical weight of Drepung Monastery, and the dynamic energy of monastic debates into an unforgettable adventure.
Early morning: Meet at the designated gathering point in Kathmandu (departure time estimated at 6:00, subject to guide’s notice). Drive through Nepal’s pastoral landscapes to the Nepal-China border town, experiencing the cultural transition from Hinduism to Tibetan civilization.
Afternoon: Complete formalities, cross the China-Nepal Friendship Bridge, and drive 25 km into Gyirong, Tibet—known as the "Backyard of Everest." Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the road’s right side offers views of 4,680m Riwobanba Peak, while 7,227m Langtang Lirung Peak stands tall to the south.
Afternoon:After a full day’s drive, arrive in Shigatse, . After check-in, explore the city’s lively atmosphere.
Morning:drive east through Gyantse, the "City of Heroes," and pass Karola Glacier, one of Tibet’s three major continental glaciers. Arrive at Yamdrok Lake (4,441m altitude), one of Tibet’s Three Sacred Lakes, whose Tibetan name means "Jade Lake." The water shimmers in hues of cyan and emerald green as light changes; capture "mirror of the sky" reflections along the lakeside road.
Afternoon: Return to Lhasa.
Morning:visit to the Potala Palace, Tibet’s iconic landmark and a historic complex of palaces, fortresses, and monasteries.
Afternoon:First, visit the Jokhang Temple, home to the 12-year-old Jowo Buddha statue brought to Tibet by Princess Wencheng—an extremely sacred relic in Tibetan Buddhism. Witness devout pilgrims traveling from afar, moved by their faith. Then, embark on a Barkhor Street Citywalk, a "moving meditation" alongside prostrating pilgrims, feeling the warmth of the ancient stone pavement.
Morning: exploration of Drepung Monastery, the world’s largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Visit the Tsokchen Hall and Ganden Phodrang. This is also the main venue for the Shoton Festival’s Buddha display, housing numerous Tangka paintings and Buddha statues from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The monastery’s mountain-side architecture resembles a massive Buddhist castle.
Afternoon: Enter Sera Monastery, one of the six major Gelugpa monasteries. Watch monks in crimson robes engage in philosophical debates (afternoons except weekends), a vivid display of faith and wisdom in dialogue.
Morning:Drive to Shigatse.
Afternoon: Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. Explore the 26.2m-high Jampa Buddha—the world’s tallest copper statue—as well as the relic stupa halls of the 10th Panchen Lama, 4th Panchen Lama, and the joint stupa hall of the 5th to 9th Panchen Lamas, and the Tsokchen Hall.
Hotel Type / Travel Time | May-01 - May-31 | Jun-01 - Jun-30 | Jul-01 - Aug-20 | Aug-01 - Oct-14 | Oct-15 - Nov-30 | Dec-01 - Dec-01 |
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Economic Class (3-StarHotels) | 1170 | 1230 | 1320 | 1415 | 1220 | 1160 |
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