Peaceful Namobuddha Hiking
Combined multi-countries

Nepal and Tibet Tour

A tour of Nepal and Tibet would combine visits to two distinct and culturally rich countries in the Himalayas. A combined tour would cover the highlights of both countries, including Kathmandu & Lhasa City sightseeing, Mountain flight & Potala Palace, and a combination of scenic drive and flight. Nepal Tibet Tour offers natural beauty in its original form.

Travelers can witness the diversity in culture, traditions, and festivals, visit the cultural heritages listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and Jungle Safari for natural lovers. The true beauty of both of these countries is in the countless small, but meaningful experiences and cultural interactions that travelers can have throughout the trip. Traveling to most major cities and settlements here in these both nations, travelers can understand these beautiful nations better.

Major Attractions of Multi-countries Tours

Nepal is known for its stunning mountain landscapes, including Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world. Travelers can take a scenic flight around the mountain, do short hikes, sightsee around World Heritage Sites, do jungle Safari, and enjoy the sunrise views from the destinations like Nagarkot, and Sarangkot.

Tibet is an Autonomous Region of China that lies in a plateau region in Asia. This Himalayan kingdom has its unique culture, religion, and history. Lhasa is the capital city of Tibet and has many important Tibetan Buddhist sites. Some major attractions of Tibet are Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Sera Monastery. Travelers can also visit Northern EBC (Everest Base Camp), explore a large turquoise lake Yamdrok Lake, and visit sacred monasteries.

Major Attractions:

Nepal and Tibet offer a variety of attractions for visitors to experience. Here are a few of the major attractions in each country:

Nepal:

  • UNESCO World Heritage sites sightseeing such as Pashupatinath Temple, Swoyambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and 3 Durbar Squares
  • Stunning Sunrise views from Nagarkot or Sarangkot
  • Adventure outdoor sports such as white water rafting, paragliding, bungee jumping, and boating
  • Wildlife Jungle Safari, Lake-side visit and boating there
  • Everest Mountain Flight or Everest Helicopter Tour and get close-up views of Everest and the surrounding mountains

Tibet:

  • UNESCO World Heritage-listed Potala Palace
  • Tibetan Buddhist’s most sacred Jokhang Temple
  • Dadong Village, an authentic Tibetan village, famous for its hot springs, old Tibetan monastery, and traditional folklore.
  • Overland Tour at Northern EBC (Everest Base Camp from Tibet side)
  • Holy Turquoise Blue Water Lake Yamdrok
  • Sacred Monasteries such as Tashilhunpo Monastery, Sera Monastery, Rongbuk Monastery, Drepung Monastery

Direct Flight Lhasa – Tibet flight schedule available

Great! Kathmandu to Lhasa (Tibet) direct flight resumes after COVID-19, Himalaya Airlines starts 3 flights per week (every Monday, Wednesday & Friday) from April 17, 2024.

  • Air China: 6 daily flight from Chengdu to Lhasa
  • Air China: 08:30 4h 30 Direct PEK 13:00 LXA (Daily from Beijing)
  • China Eastern: 08:20 KMG 2h 50 Direct 11:10 LXA (Daily from Kunming)
  • China Eastern: 08:35 TFU 2h 10 Direct 10:45 LXA (Daily from Chengdu)
  • China Southern: 8 daily flight from Chongqing to Lhasa
  • AirChina: Xian to Lhasa, Xining to Lhasa, Hongyuan to Lhasa
  • 3-6 flights per week (It is not started now) from Kathmandu to Lhasa or vice-versa.
  • For direct flight: Only one international destination is Kathmandu (Nepal) for Lhasa (Tibet) flight.

Best Airports for Travelers to Tibet

We offer short tours for Chengdu, Beijing, Xining, and various mainland cities in China for those planning to reach Tibet via the Chinese mainland. It’s essential to bring your China visa from your home. We will provide you required Tibet travel permit to fly or take a train to Lhasa (Tibet) from any city in China where you land.

Train & Driving Routes & Distrances

Train Routes to Lhasa (Tibet) from mainland China

Driving distance between major cities with elevation:

Recommended Hotels in Lhasa, Shigatse, Rongbuk (EBC) and Gyirung

Lhasa:

Shigatse:

Gyirung:

Rongbuk/EBC:
Accommodation in Rongbuk/EBC is very limited. Since Rongbuk is a remote area, expect the accommodation to be very basic. There are a few guesthouses that provide twin-sharing rooms with bunk beds and the bathroom is also outside the guesthouse. Travelers may not get hot water facilities and due to high altitude, the internet connectivity and phone network are also not strong. During the peak season, nomad tents are the means of accommodation. It has dorm beds, and a shared bathroom mostly outside. Travelers must be prepared for cold temperatures, high altitudes, and limited amenities. So better to overnight stay at Shegar (where locally 3 star hotel available) and drive to Rongbuk/EBC early morning tomorrow to see sunrise view of Mt. Everest.

Photo Gallery with varieties

Kathmandu to Tibet(Lhasa) flight from Kathmandu

Destination: KTM – LXA (Kathmandu to Lhasa, Tibet)
Days: Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday
Departure: 07:00 / 08:25 (KTM time)
Arrival: 10:25 / 12:00(Tibet time)

Destination: LXA – KTM (Lhasa to Kathmandu, Nepal)
Days: Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday
Departure: 12:45 / 12:15 (Tibet time)
Arrival: 12:05 / 11:35 (Kathmandu time)

Foreigners are allowed to visit Tibet, and flights from Kathmandu (Nepal) to Lhasa (Tibet) or vice versa are currently available 3 flights per week. If not matched flight with your travel date, there are other tour options such as overland or driving tours.

  • One option is to start the tour in Lhasa (Tibet) and end in Kathmandu, with the possibility of continuing on to Bhutan.
  • Second option is to take an overland tour that begins and ends in Lhasa (Tibet)
  • Third Option is an overland tour that starts and ends in Kathmandu, with a visit to Lhasa (Tibet).
  • Forth option is to start the tour in Kathmandu and end in Tibet, with exiting via mainland China.

Notice on Exempting fingerprint (biometrics) collection for certain types of visa Application of China (Tibet Group Visa) from Kathmandu, Nepal:

Between August 11, 2023, and December 31, 2023, the Chinese embassy in Nepal will waive the requirement for eligible applicants seeking single or double-entry business (M), tourist (L), family visit (Q2), transit (G), Crew (C), foreigner of high talent or specialist (R) visas to provide fingerprints. For more details about Chinese Visa center of Kathmandu, click here

Visa fee for China

China has decided to trial a unilateral visa-free program, alongside the promotion of Summer Holiday & Autumn China or Tibet tour packages for 2025.

Travelers from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Singapore, and Malaysia can now enter China without a visa for up to 15 days. Starting March 14, 2024, Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, and Switzerland, Australia and New Zealand will also be included in this initiative. The policy is in effect until December 31, 2025.

For Chinese Mainland
(From December 11th, 2023 to December 31st, 2025)

Nationality Group Visa Fees (NPR)
Nepal 11,100
US 25,100
Canada 15,900
Serbia 10,000
Brazil 20,200
Israel 11,900
Argentina 12,700
Panama 14,800
Romania 16,000
Uruguay 13,300
Albania & Micronesia & BiH 9,800
Chile 7,800
Pakistan & Maldives
Other Countries 12,700

General Tour Inclusions

You’re guaranteed the best value service with bonus experiences with our unmatched local expertise. As operators providing exquisite services for over a decade, we prioritize quality over other factors.

The price for each package might vary with the hotel category, tour duration, travel season, routes, and activities being the major factors. You can customize these to find your ideal package which might not be the same with cheaper deals elsewhere. Rest assured, make your visit worth every bit with Everest Vacation.

NEPAL TOUR – GENERAL INCLUSIONS

  • Breakfast in hotels.
  • Full meals in Chitwan.
  • Airport pickups and drops service.
  • Private ground transportation with air-conditioning.
  • Hotel accommodation as per your choice.
  • Local cultural tour guide with English speaking.
  • Sightseeing entrance fees for museums and monuments.

TIBET TOUR – GENERAL INCLUSIONS

  • Tibet Tourism Bureau Permit and all other necessary permits to Tibet;
  • All entrance tickets fee for tourist attractions are listed in the itinerary;
  • Experienced local English-speaking tour guide;
  • A travel-licensed vehicle according to group size & season as itinerary needed including gas and parking fee;
  • All lodging listed in the itinerary; it’s your decision about the accommodation class: luxury 5-star international hotel, comfortable 4-star hotel, economic 3-star hotel. Please tell us your preference;
  • Breakfasts provided by hotels;
  • Pick-up & Drop-off service from Airport/railway station;
  • Travel Agency Liability insurance;
  • Express delivery fee of Permit (eg. SF. Express);
  • Food & lodgings for guide & driver;
  • Oxygen tank for emergency use;
  • Sleeping bags;
  • Two bottles of mineral water per person per day.

 

Best season to visit Nepal and Tibet

Nepal:

Nepal is ideal to visit all around the year and each season has some uniqueness to offer. But, Spring (Mar-May) seasons are considered best followed by the Autumn (Sep-Nov) season to travel to Nepal. The weather is moderate, the skies are clear, and the temperature during the day is warm and colder in the mountains than in the lower regions.

During winter (Dec-Feb), it is slightly warm during the day and cold in the morning and night. Expect snowfalls in the higher regions. But, the views are clear and you can still enjoy traveling during the winter season in Nepal.

Tibet:

Tibet is situated on a high plateau and hence, experiences low temperatures and frost for most of the months. It lies at a high elevation compared to Nepal. So, the best time to travel to Tibet is the Summer season (Jun-Aug). This is the peak season and the chance of altitude sickness is very low. The oxygen level in the atmosphere is high during this season as the temperature is between 12℃-24℃ which helps travelers to properly acclimatize.

Spring (Apr-May) and Autumn (Sep-Oct) seasons are also the best time to travel to Tibet if you want to skip the peak season crowd. The temperature during the day is warm but nights are cold and colder at high altitudes. For the best view of Mt. Everest from the Northern EBC, the Spring and Autumn seasons are best and provide clear views. The winter season (Dec-Mar) is very cold in Tibet.

And, typically Tibet remains closed in February and March for foreigners to travel. Sometimes until early April, Tibet can remain closed.

Altitude sickness

Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a common condition that can occur when people ascend/climb to high elevations without giving proper rest to the body. Altitude sickness is common at the high-altitudes. But, travelers must know the symptoms and preventions of altitude sickness.

Symptoms of AMS include:

Headache, nausea, shortness of breath, fatigue, and confusion. In some cases, AMS can be severe, and even life-threatening.

Altitude Sickness Prevention:

  • Consult a doctor and get advice before visiting high-altitude areas
  • Immediately inform the guide or group members
  • Immediately descend
  • Acclimatize properly
  • Ascend slowly
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Eat foods that are rich in Carbohydrates, Vitamins, Iron, and Vitamin E
  • Urinate Frequently
  • Avoid salty foods, alcohol, and smoking
  • Seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms or consult an expert or guide

Nepal: Altitude sickness is there in the higher regions. During the Nepal visit, we travel to most of the lower regions and there is no fear of getting altitude sickness. Still, we recommend you do some exercises and get fit and healthy for the travel.

Tibet: As mentioned earlier, Tibet is on a high plateau and its elevation is higher compared to Nepal. It has an initial altitude at Lhasa of approx. 3650m from the sea level. So, we recommend you before visiting Tibet, get as fit and healthy as possible, both physically and mentally. It is advised that travelers having records of heart, lung, or other organ problems or anemia must consult their doctor before traveling to Tibet. If anyone planning to travel to Northern EBC, we advise you to spend at least 2-3 days in Lhasa city to acclimatize and adjust to the temperature. During the Tibet visit, we have the facility of oxygen cylinders for emergency and traveler’s safety.

​Festival Tour Nepal and Tibet

Traditional festivals which are well-preserved and still in practice are the best highlight of these both nations. Festivals are lively and one that you shouldn’t miss in both these countries. With vibrant ornaments and clothing, dancing and singing, festive foods, and vibes, festivals here will amaze you for sure.

An incredibly enriching experience while attending festivals in Nepal and Tibet allows you to witness traditional customs and practices, and immerse yourself in the local culture. But, one thing that needs to keep in mind is that most of the dates of the festival in Nepal and Tibet depend on the Lunar calendar. So, if you wish to attend any festivals confirm the accurate dates with your travel agency before planning the trip.

Some of the most popular festivals in Nepal and Tibet include:

Tibet Major Festivals:

Losar Festival: Losar is the popular Tibetan New Year festival that falls in the months of February or March. The festival is marked by religious ceremonies, traditional dancing, and the exchanging of gifts. The colorful masks and costumes worn by the dancers are the highlights of the festival. Losar is attended by many local natives and celebrates it grandly.

Saga Dawa: Saga Dawa is celebrated in the month of May or June, which is the month when the Buddha was born, attained enlightenment, and got parinirvana. Many Tibetans visit various sacred monasteries and donate to needy people. In Lhasa, at the foot of Potala Palace, Tibetans join crowds and visit the Dzongyab Lukhang Park. They circle Barkhor, Tshekhor, Lingkhor, and Mt. Kailash.

Shoton Festival: The popular festival falls in the month of August. It is also known as Yogurt Festival. Monks are served yogurt and some local opera performances are also organized. The main attraction of this festival is the presentation of the Giant Buddha Thangkas in the Drepung Monastery.

Tibetan Bathing Festival: The most unique festival called the bathing festival is held every seventh month of the Tibetan calendar and lasts for a week. It is believed that taking a bath during this time will remove all the diseases and misfortune. Most people in Tibet go out for a picnic with family near the river bank and take a bath. Later, they enjoy a picnic with a family.

Nepal Major Festivals:

Nepal is among the few counties in the world where the maximum number of festivals are celebrated in a year. Some popular festivals are:

Dashain: Dashain is the major biggest festival in Nepal that celebrates the victory of good over evil. The festival normally falls in the months of September or October. They celebrate this festival by putting a tika on their forehead from the hand of the older and seeking blessings. They wear new clothes, accept dakshina (money), and eat delicious feasts with family members.

Tihar: Tihar is the second biggest light festival in Nepal. It is celebrated for 5 days and various animals like crows, dogs, cows, and ox are worshipped. Besides, this wealthy Goddess Laxmi is worshipped and Bhai Tika is performed. Bhai Tika is the festival where sisters put tika on their brother’s forehead and pray for their longevity.

Bhoto Jatra: One of the unique festivals that are celebrated in April or May in Patan, Nepal. The festival is marked by the display of a sacred vest, known as the Bhoto, which is said to have been worn by a god. The festival is also known for its colorful parades, and chariot pulling.

Tiji Festival: Tiji is a three-day festival that is celebrated in the Mustang region of Nepal and Lo Manthang near the Tibet border. The festival is held in late May or early June and marks the victory of Lord Buddha’s incarnation over a demon. The festival features traditional dancing, singing, and the re-enactment of the victory of good over evil.

Similarly, Holi, Shivaratri, Janai Purnima, Buddha Jayanti, Lhosar, Chhath, Maghe Sankranti, and Teej are some other major festivals here. You can change the date of your visit to overlap some of these festivals to know the Nepalese culture, religion, and lifestyle better. Most of these festivals are celebrated with families and friends with great foods and drinks as well. So, plan accordingly to be in Nepal during these amazing festivals.

​Why you’ll love these Nations for a Vacation?

The following factors make combined Nepal and Tibet great destinations for travelers looking for a realistic, cultural, and enriching experience. These nations are a blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and friendly local people. Let’s disconnect from the world and relish the beauty of nature, culture, and beautiful destinations in Nepal and Tibet.

Nepal and Tibet offer a unique and memorable vacation experience for travelers for many reasons:

  • The scenic beauty of both nations Nepal and Tibet is breathtaking.
  • These nations are historically and culturally rich.
  • Sightseeing around UNESCO-listed World Heritage Sites.
  • The spiritual significance is high in these nations.
  • Adventure outdoor activities (short hikes, overland tour around Northern EBC, boating, paragliding, Everest Mountain flight, etc.)
  • Welcoming people in both nations with great hospitality.
  • Delicious cuisine with a variety.
  • Amazing sunrise view over the snow-capped mountains.
  • Sacred monasteries, stupas, and temples.
  • Suitable for both luxury and budget travelers with different ways to enjoy.
  • Both Nepal and Tibet is Safe for traveling (perfect for both solo and family vacation).
  • Explore many photographic destinations.
  • Wildlife Jungle Safari in the vicinity of a natural dense forest.
  • Enjoy the views of diverse flora and a close encounter with rare and majestic wildlife and birds.
  • Be a part of unique traditional festivals.
  • Positive vibes in the atmosphere of these nations make your travel more memorable.

​Inside view of Nepal and Tibet for Travelers

Nepal and Tibet offer a unique and memorable travel experience for travelers. Explore the real beauty of nature, culture, and the warm hospitality of people. Here’s an inside view of what travelers can expect when traveling these nations:

  • Accommodations in the city areas are luxurious for luxury travelers and comfortable for budget travelers but very basic and simple accommodation in remote regions.
  • Nepalese and Tibetan cuisines offer a delicious blend of flavors, but you should also be prepared to try a variety of local dishes. There is a variety of international cuisine in bigger cities such as Kathmandu and Lhasa.
  • In Nepal, buses, shared taxis, and flights are means of transport. Buses and shared taxis are the most common and affordable means of transportation in Nepal. Private cars and mini buses are means of transport in Tibet.
  • Both Nepal and Tibet are located in the Himalayas, and the climate can vary widely depending on the altitude and time of year. Be sure to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.
  • Internet and mobile coverage is widely available in both Nepal and Tibet, but the service can be slow or unreliable in some areas, especially in remote and high-altitude regions.
  • Travelers need Tibet Travel Permit, which can be arranged through a travel agency. For a Nepal visit, travelers must show a valid passport and a visa can be obtained upon arrival at the airport. It’s important to check the visa requirements for both nations before you travel.
  • Assure your visas on time. It is best to have them at least a few days earlier than in a tight schedule. Tibet Travel Permit and Visa paperwork processes are strict. So, be sure and double-check everything.
  • Be gentle and patient if things don’t work out. Nepalese and Tibetans are very hospitable. So, don’t feel shy to ask for help.
  • Most places might be open for tourists, some might need permits/passes, and some might even be restricted for travelers. As a traveler, it is always best to know about these beforehand.
  • Always choose a local guide to miss nothing. Both Nepal and Tibet have some of the best-hidden destinations and a local guide will be worth your price for the best travel experience.
  • While the highways are particularly comfortable prepare for some bumpy stretches in the hilly destinations. Keep in mind that the drivers here are amazingly skilled and experienced so loosen up a bit.
  • There are some restrictions in these nations due to traditional beliefs. So, follow the norm, and culture, and be a responsible traveler. Don’t try to display your affection in public places.
  • Preparation is the key to best experiencing these countries. Always spend as much time in discussion with your team or guides who will accompany you.
  • For family vacations always consult with the team for tips to get great deals on accommodation and transportation.
  • Keep your documents with you all the time. It’s better to make some copies in case you lose yours.
  • Just allow us to help you with anything as our professional team is ready for your assistance at Everest Vacation.

All about Rongbuk Monastery / Everest Base Camp

Rongbuk / Everest Base Camp / Tingri / Shegar :

  1. No good accommodation in the EBC Area. Shegar (Dingri / New Tingri) or Tingri or Tashi Zom town are suitable options for good accommodation.
  2. At present, the vicinity of Everest is a protected area called ‘Qomolangma National Nature Preserve’.
  3. Private tourist vehicles are not permitted to enter the area, so the Green Eco Bus is the best choice.
  4. In the morning, drive towards Tashi Zom town and transfer to the ‘Green Eco Bus’ to witness an amazing sunrise view (If not matched EcoBus time, you can see sunrise from Gawu La Pass). Generally, the sunrise time is around 8:00-8:30am (depends on season).
  5. Green Eco Buses regularly travel between EBC and Tashi Zom and the ride takes about 30-40 minutes (20KM).
  6. Green Eco Bus consists of 29 seats that run every 10-15 minutes from 8am to 9 pm (no accurate time) daily which costs 120 RMB per person.
  7. Entrance to the Everest Base Camp Area is restricted and entry to the Rongbuk Monastery (5,009m) and surroundings is only allowed. The relocation of the EBC camp has shifted its position considerably lower. Presently, the Everest Base Camp has a new location and allowed to go its surroundings.
  8. There are no more hiking routes and only hiking around the Monastery to explore the highest elevated monastery (5,009m), mani stone walls, chortens, and meditation caves, and witness phenomenal views of the north face of the world’s highest Mt. Everest.
  9. Travelers must walk 10-15 minutes to get the view point for magnificent views of Everest and surrounding mountains.

Recommended Private Tour instead of Group Joining Tour

There are several advantages of Private Tours over a Group Tour. A private tour offers a more personalized and flexible itinerary. You will have the great opportunity to explore the places of your interest as well as more comfort and more privacy. You will get accompanied by an expert & dedicated guide who will take care of all the logistics and an experienced driver who knows the remote region and its high-altitude destination very well, especially in Tibet.

FAQs (Frequently Ask Questions) – Nepal & Tibet

A: Either route is suitable. Both routes have their own advantages, and the high altitude concerns can be managed with proper acclimatization and precautions.

A: It is better to apply for the China visa from your home country. We can provide the necessary and supportive documents to facilitate the visa application process.

A: It is not difficult. We can send the Tibet Travel Permit to any city where you will be staying overnight, including airports if you have a same-day flight to Lhasa, Tibet.

A: Payment or deposit can be made through bank transfer or in cash. Please choose the option that is most convenient for you.

A: Obtaining a Tibet group visa from Kathmandu can be a little difficult. It takes around 4 days to process the visa at the Chinese embassy, and each traveler’s biometric data is required, so they need to be physically present at the embassy in Kathmandu. A minimum of 4 persons is required to apply for a Tibet group visa.

A: Yes, there is weekly 3 flights (Mon, Wed and Fri) from Kathmandu to Tibet.

A: No, there are no international flights directly to Tibet, except from Kathmandu, Nepal. From Kathmandu, there are only 3 flights per week. To travel to Tibet, you would need to fly to China mainland cities like Beijing, Chengdu, or Kunming from your country and stay overnight there to receive the Tibet travel permit. The next day, you can take a flight to Lhasa, Tibet.

A: Yes, a Tibet travel permit is required to enter Tibet. We will provide the permit based on your itinerary and places of stay.

A: The high altitude in Tibet can pose some challenges. It is recommended to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and take adequate rest. Oxygen cylinders are always available in the vehicles during the tour as a precautionary measure. So, there is no need to worry, but it is important to be mindful of the altitude.

A: Yes, it is possible to visit China mainland cities with a Tibet group visa.

A: The vehicle provided will be private.

A: Yes, it is possible to arrange a full meal plan. The Lunch and Dinner can be served in the outside restaurant.

A: A Tibetan guide will be provided for the tour.

A: In Lhasa and Shigatse, there are 5-star luxury hotels available. In Shegar/Tingri and Gyirong, accommodations are available up to 3-star standards. In Rongbuk, only guesthouses are available.

A: No, Ganden Monastery requires an additional day. However, Samye Monastery can be visited while dropping off at the airport on the last day.

A: Yes, it is possible to complete the Namtso Lake excursion in a single day.

A: Yes, it is possible to witness the sunrise with Mt. Everest and other mountain ranges from Gawu La Pass, even if you are staying in Shegar.

A: China has decided a unilateral visa-free program, alongside the promotion of Summer Holiday & Autumn China or Tibet tour packages for 2025.

Travelers can enter China and Tibet without a visa from the nationality of France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Malaysia, Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Poland, New Zealand and Australia for up to 15 days and Singapore for upto 30 days. The policy is in effect until December 31, 2025.

What makes Everest Vacation different?

 

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