Nepal Tibet Tour 2024/2025
Private Tibet tour from Kathmandu including Nepal day tours || Extermly Popular ||As of today, flights from Kathmandu to Lhasa have not yet resumed. The only available option for traveling between the two countries is through an overland tour. - Updated April 20, 2023
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.
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.
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
Tibet is re-open but Kathmandu to Lhasa (Tibet) flight not resumed.
Foreigners are allowed to visit Tibet, but flights from Kathmandu (Nepal) to Lhasa (Tibet) or vice versa are currently not available. However, 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.
Major attraction of both countries
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
Recommended Combined Nepal Tibet Tour (Multi-countries Tour)
Attention: Currently, flights between Kathmandu and Lhasa (Tibet) remain suspended due to the pandemic. Therefore, flight options for travel to Tibet are not feasible. The only available alternative for traveling to Tibet from Kathmandu (Nepal) OR mainland China to Kathmandu via Tibet is through an overland tour.
Overland tour with EBC/Rongbuk monastery (4 nights Kathmandu and 6 nights Tibet)
- Process/Route: Arrival Kathmandu, visa processing, Nagarkot, drive to Gyirung (Nepal Tibet border), Rongbuk Monastery (EBC view point), Shigatse, Yamdrok Lake, Lhasa city tour and flight from Lhasa to next destination via China mainland; eg: Chengdu/Beijing/Kunming etc.
- Alternate Process/Route: Arrival Lhasa from your country via China mainland; eg: Chengdu/Beijing/Kunming etc. (1 night overnight stay at China city to collect Tibet travel permit, which we will send you before you arrived in hotel or, if there is enough time to fly to Lhasa in same day, we can handover at the airport.), Lhasa city tour, Yamdrok lake, Shigatse, Rongbuk monastery (EBC), Gyirung and drive to Kathmandu, Kathmandu Tour, flight out from Kathmandu to home or next destination.
- Accommodation Limit: No luxury/5star/4 star hotels in Rongbuk monastery (monastery/guesthouse/tent available) and Gyirung (locally 3 star hotel available).
- About Road: Kathmandu to Rasuwa Gadhi takes around 6-7 hours, and travels over some gravel and dirt roads that are only single lane, often causing traffic issues.
How to travel Tibet? and Visa Processing?
- If you plan to travel to Tibet from Kathmandu, Nepal, keep in mind that you must obtain a Tibet Visa from the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu, which usually requires at least three business days to process. As part of the application process, your original passport will be held by the Chinese Embassy, and you will need to visit the embassy for biometric verification. While your Tibet Visa application is being processed, you can take advantage of this time to explore the sights of Kathmandu. We will handle all the tasks related to the visa processing.
- If you plan to travel to Tibet from your country, travelers need to obtain a China visa in their country and spend a night in mainland China (such as Beijing, Chengdu, Chongqing, or Kunming) to obtain the Tibet Travel Permit. This permit will be provided in hard copy at the hotel before your arrival. We would be happy to assist you in booking a hotel for one night in any city in China.
Nepal Tibet Overland Tour – 11 days (Suggested Itinerary & Flexible as per your interest)
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3 nights in Kathmandu including Nagarkot + 3 nights at Lhasa (7 days)
- Process: Arrival Kathmandu, Tibet visa processing, Nagarkot, Lhasa city tour, flight to Chengdu or Kathmandu for international flight or next destination.
- Distance: 1.5 hours flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa and 1.5 hours drive from Lhasa Gonggar Airport to downtown/hotel.
Nepal Tibet Combined Tour – 07 days (Suggested Itinerary & customizable as per your interest)
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3 nights in Kathmandu including Nagarkot + 5 nights at Lhasa, Yamdrok lake and Shigatse
- Process: Arrival in Kathmandu, Tibet visa processing, Nagarkot, Lhasa city tour, Lhasa to Shigatse via Yamdrok Lake and return to Lhasa, flight to Chengdu or Kathmandu for international flight or next destination.
- Distance: 1.5 hours flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa and 1.5 hours drive from Lhasa Gonggar Airport to downtown/hotel, 7-8 hours drive from Lhasa to Shigatse.
Nepal Tibet Multi-countries tour – 09 days (Suggested Itinerary & Flexible)
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4 nights in Lhasa + 8 nights in Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park, Pokhara (13 days)
- Process: If you have already Chinese visa, Collect Tibet permit in Chengdu / Beijing / Kunming / Guangzhou / Shanghai or mainland China, flight/train to Lhasa from China mainland city, Lhasa tour with yamdrok lake, flight to Kathmandu, 3 nights Kathmandu, 2 nights Chitwan and 2 nights Pokhara.
- Vice-versa: 3 nights in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan and fly to Lhasa, Lhasa tour with yamdrok lake and fly out via Chengdu or Kathmandu to your home or next destination.
Nepal and Tibet Itinerary – 13 days (Suggested itinerary & can customize)
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Recommended Hotels in Lhasa, Shigatse, Rongbuk (EBC) and Gyirung
Lhasa:
- St. Regis Lhasa – 5-star international luxury hotels
- XinDing Hotel – 4-star hotel locally
- Dekang Hotel – 4-star hotel locally
- Yak Hotel – 3-star hotel locally
Shigatse:
- Qomo Langzong Hotel – 5-star hotel
- Hilton Shigatse – 5-star hotel
- Gesar Hotel – 3-star or 4 hotel locally
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.
Gyirung:
- Gyirung Shengtai Hotel – 3-star locally
Direct Flight available (schedule) to Lhasa, Tibet
- 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.
Train Routes to Lhasa (Tibet) from mainland China
- Chengdu – Lhasa: 3070KM – 36 hours
- Xining – Lhasa: 1956KM – 22 hours
- Chongqing – Lhasa: 3030KM – 36 hours
- Lanzhou – Lhasa: 2188KM – 24 hours
- Xian – Lhasa: 2864KM – 33 hours
- Beijing – Lhasa: 3757KM – 40 hours
Driving distance between major cities with elevation:
- Lhasa (3650m) to Yamdrok Lake (4441m) = 114KM
- Lhasa to Shigatse (3845m) via Karo La Pass (5045m) = 350KM
- Shigatse to Rongbuk/EBC (5000m) via Gyatchu La pass (5,220m) = 320KM
- Rongbuk to Gyirung (2700m) via Lalung La Pass (5,124m) and Tong La Pass (5,120m) = 350KM
- Gyirung (Kyirong or Kerung) to Rasuwa Gadhi (1983m)(Tibet-Nepal Border) = 24KM
- Rasuwa Gadhi to Kathmandu (1330m) = 152KM (approx. 6 hours)
- Kathmandu to Nagarkot (2175m) = 27KM (1 hour drive)
- Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m) = 200KM (approx. 6 hours by drive or 30 minutes by flight)
- Pokhara to Chitwan (415m) = 140KM (approx. 4 hours by drive or 20 minutes by flight)
- Chitwan to Kathmandu = 160KM (approx. 5 hours by drive or 25 minutes by flight)
Tibet Travel Permit, Tibet Group Visa / Chinese Visa, Visa fees
Tibet Travel Permit is very essential for Tibet travel. Kathmandu is the only capital city besides major cities of China from where travelers can visit Lhasa, Tibet.
Tibet Bureau Permit Procedure:
- Tibet Tourism Bureau Permit (TTB) usually takes about 12 working days to apply. Travelers must provide the required documents & information before applying for TTB.
For the Travel Permit from Kathmandu:
- It takes at least 3 working days to get the Tibet group visa for the Tibet tour which requires your original passport and photographs. Within these days, your passport will be in the Chinese embassy in Kathmandu. (Working days: Monday to Friday)
- If you already have a Chinese visa but you want to travel to Tibet via Kathmandu, your Chinese visa will be canceled from the Chinese embassy in Kathmandu and provide you Tibet group visa only.
For the Travel Permit from China or your home country:
- If you already have a Chinese visa or want to apply from your country, you have to travel via China mainland for a Tibet tour. We will send the hard copy of the Travel permit to your hotel where you will spend 1 night in China mainland (Eg: Chengdu, Beijing, Xining, Lanzhou, Xian, Chongqing, Nyingchi, Kunming, Guangzhou, Shanghai etc.) or, if there is enough time to fly to Lhasa in same day, we can handover at the airport. Without a travel permit, you won’t be able to visit Tibet.
Tibet Visa Fees:
Tibet visa fees are different depending on different nationalities. Some lists are:
| Countries | Visa Fee (USD/PERSON) |
|---|---|
| Nepal | USD110 per person |
| Argentina and Other Countries | USD120 per person |
| USA, Canada | USD185 per person |
| Israel, Romanian | USD115 per person |
| Chile, Albania / Micronesia & Bih | USD95 per person |
| Serbia | USD100 per person |
| Brazil | USD180 per person |
| Panama | USD135 per person |
| Uruguay | USD125 per person |
| Pakistan & Maldives | USD90 per person |
Some nations have to apply for China and Tibet Group Visa from their respective countries. Chinese Embassy of Nepal won’t issue any group Visa or Chinese Visa for the following listed nations: Afghanistan, Albania, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Chad, Congo, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Mali, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Syria, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Turkey, Uzbekistan
About the tour cost and general inclusion
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.
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.
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.
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FAQs (Frequently Ask Questions)
Q: Which route is recommended for an overland tour: Kathmandu to Gyirong to Lhasa or Lhasa to Gyirong to Kathmandu? Especially considering high altitude concerns.
A: Either route is suitable. Both routes have their own advantages, and the high altitude concerns can be managed with proper acclimatization and precautions.
Q: What is your suggestion for applying for a China visa (to visit Tibet) from the travelers' home country?
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.
Q: Is it difficult to send the Tibet Travel Permit to China mainland cities like Beijing, Chengdu, or Kunming?
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.
Q: How can payment or deposit be made?
A: Payment or deposit can be made through bank transfer or in cash. Please choose the option that is most convenient for you.
Q: How difficult is it to obtain a Tibet group visa from Kathmandu?
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.
Q: Have flights from Kathmandu to Tibet resumed?
A: As of now, flights from Kathmandu to Tibet have not resumed.
Q: Is there a direct flight from my country to Tibet?
A: No, there are no international flights directly to Tibet, except from Kathmandu, Nepal. However, even the Kathmandu route is not currently operational. 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.
Q: Is a Tibet travel permit required to fly to 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.
Q: How is the issue of high altitude in Tibet?
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.
Q: Is it possible to visit China mainland cities with a Tibet group visa?
A: Yes, it is possible to visit China mainland cities with a Tibet group visa.
Q: Will the vehicle be shared or private?
A: The vehicle provided will be private.
Q: Is it possible to have a full meal plan? Will the meals be served in the hotel or outside?
A: Yes, it is possible to arrange a full meal plan. The Lunch and Dinner can be served in the outside restaurant.
Q: Could you please confirm whether a Tibetan guide or Chinese guide will be provided?
A: A Tibetan guide will be provided for the tour.
Q: What are the luxury accommodation options in Tibet?
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.
Q: Is it possible to visit Ganden Monastery and Samye Monastery on the same day?
A: No, Ganden Monastery requires an additional day. However, Samye Monastery can be visited while dropping off at the airport on the last day.
Q: Is it possible to do the Namtso Lake excursion in one day?
A: Yes, it is possible to complete the Namtso Lake excursion in a single day.
Q: Can I see the sunrise at Everest Base Camp (EBC) from Rongbuk if I am staying in Shegar?
A: Yes, it is possible to witness the sunrise at Everest Base Camp (EBC) from Rongbuk, even if you are staying in Shegar.
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.
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.
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- Over a decade-long experience in planning and organizing tours in Asia.
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