Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 feet), Nepal's vibrant capital, where you'll be warmly welcomed with marigold garlands. After transferring to your hotel, take time to relax and acclimate to the bustling city. Discover vibrant local markets, indulge in traditional Nepali dishes, and delve into Kathmandu's rich cultural tapestry. This initial day is perfect for easing into your journey, setting the stage for the exciting adventures ahead in Eastern Nepal. A representative from Jagadamba Holidays will ensure a smooth and pleasant arrival. 

Optional Evening Activity:
If you wish, you can spend your evening experiencing the Pashupatinath Aarti, a captivating religious ceremony held at the Pashupatinath Temple. The Aarti usually begins around 6:00 PM and lasts for approximately an hour. This ceremony is a mesmerizing display of traditional music and rituals, providing a profound insight into Hindu spiritual practices. Please check the exact time for the Aarti on the day of your visit, as it may vary. This option is not included in the standard itinerary but offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture.

After breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu, begin a guided sightseeing tour focusing on two of the most important spiritual landmarks in the Kathmandu Valley. The day offers a deep insight into both Buddhist and Hindu traditions, which have coexisted harmoniously in Nepal for centuries.

Your first visit is to Bouddhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rising majestically above the surrounding area, the stupa is a major center of Tibetan Buddhism. Pilgrims and monks walk clockwise around the stupa, spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras. The all-seeing eyes of the Buddha, painted on the stupa’s tower, symbolize wisdom and compassion, creating a powerful spiritual presence.

Next, continue to Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple, located along the banks of the Bagmati River. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus from across South Asia. While non-Hindus are not permitted inside the main temple, the surrounding complex offers clear views of ritual activities, including cremation ceremonies along the riverbank. These ceremonies reflect the Hindu philosophy of life, death, and rebirth, offering a profound cultural experience.

Throughout the day, your guide will explain the religious significance, architectural details, and social traditions associated with these sacred sites. In the afternoon, return to your 3-star Kathmandu Guest House in Thamel, where the evening is free to relax or reflect on the day’s spiritual encounters.

After breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu, depart for a full-day exploration of the Kathmandu Valley’s historic cities, beginning with Patan Durbar Square, located in the ancient city of Lalitpur. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its refined Newari architecture, elegant temples, and beautifully carved wooden windows. As you walk through the square, you will see artisans working with metal, stone, and wood, continuing traditions passed down through generations.

Continue onward to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Nepal. The square is home to iconic landmarks such as the 55-Window Palace, Vatsala Temple, and Nyatapola Temple, Nepal’s tallest pagoda. Bhaktapur feels like a living museum, with brick-paved streets, traditional houses, and open courtyards where locals gather for daily activities.

The city is especially known for its pottery, woodcarving, and unique Newari culture. Walking through its narrow lanes, you will experience a slower pace of life compared to Kathmandu, offering an authentic glimpse into Nepal’s historical urban heritage.

In the late afternoon, check in to your heritage-style 2-star Shiva Guest House in Bhaktapur, where breakfast is included. Staying overnight in Bhaktapur allows you to experience the city in the evening, when day visitors depart and the historic streets become calm and atmospheric.

Evening at leisure to enjoy the heritage surroundings, take photographs, or relax in the traditional setting of your accommodation.

After breakfast at your hotel in Bhaktapur, enjoy a relaxed morning in this beautifully preserved medieval city. Early hours in Bhaktapur are especially atmospheric, as local residents begin their daily routines and the historic squares are quieter. You may choose to walk through the narrow brick-paved lanes, observe traditional pottery making at local workshops, or simply enjoy the architectural harmony of temples, courtyards, and ancient houses that define the city’s unique character.

Bhaktapur is often regarded as an open-air museum, and spending time here allows a deeper appreciation of Newari culture, craftsmanship, and community life. You may visit small local cafés, interact with artisans, or take photographs of carved windows, stone statues, and pagoda-style temples that reflect centuries of artistic excellence. The slower pace of life makes this morning ideal for reflection and cultural immersion.

In the afternoon, depart Bhaktapur and drive back to Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft). The journey takes approximately 1–1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Upon arrival, check into your 3-star Kathmandu Guest House in Thamel, where the rest of the day is dedicated to preparation for your journey into Tibet.

Later in the day, attend a Tibet tour briefing with your guide, covering important details such as border formalities, travel regulations, altitude awareness, and the itinerary for the coming days. This session also provides time to ask questions and finalize preparations for the border crossing. The remainder of the evening is at leisure, allowing you to organize your belongings, rest, and mentally prepare for the Himalayan journey ahead.

After breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu, begin a scenic drive toward the Rasuwagadhi border, the main overland gateway between Nepal and Tibet. The journey covers approximately 150 km and takes around 6–7 hours, passing through winding mountain roads, river valleys, and rural settlements. As you leave the Kathmandu Valley behind, the landscape gradually transforms into rugged hills and alpine terrain.

Upon reaching the Nepal–Tibet border, complete immigration and customs formalities on both sides. After crossing into Tibet, continue the drive to Kyirong (2,700 m / 8,858 ft), a charming Tibetan town surrounded by forested hills and snow-capped peaks. Kyirong is often considered one of the most pleasant border towns in Tibet due to its moderate altitude and scenic setting.

During the drive, you will begin to notice changes in architecture, lifestyle, and cultural expressions. Prayer flags, mani walls, and Tibetan-style houses mark your official entry into Tibetan territory, offering a first glimpse of plateau culture.

Upon arrival in Kyirong, check into your 3-star hotel in Kyirong, where breakfast will be provided. The remainder of the day is kept free for rest and acclimatization. You may take a gentle walk around the town, observe daily Tibetan life, or simply relax at your hotel while adjusting to the altitude.

After breakfast at your hotel in Kyirong, begin the drive toward New Tingri (Xegar/Shelkar), located at 4,330 m / 14,201 ft. The journey covers approximately 235 km and takes around 6–7 hours, gradually ascending onto the vast Tibetan plateau. This day marks a significant transition in landscape, altitude, and atmosphere.

As you climb higher, forested hills give way to wide open plains, distant mountain ranges, and expansive skies. The route offers spectacular views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks, including glimpses of the Everest region on clear days. Nomadic settlements, grazing yaks, and long stretches of untouched terrain highlight the remoteness and grandeur of the plateau.

The drive provides ample opportunities for short stops to admire the scenery and capture photographs of the dramatic high-altitude environment. The sense of space and silence is profound, making this journey one of the most memorable experiences of the tour.

Upon arrival in New Tingri, check into your 3-star hotel in New Tingri, where breakfast will be included during your stay. The evening is reserved for rest and acclimatization, as the altitude here is noticeably higher. Light movement, hydration, and relaxation are recommended to help your body adjust.

After breakfast at your hotel in New Tingri, begin the journey toward Shigatse (3,845 m / 12,605 ft.), the second-largest city in Tibet and an important cultural and administrative center. The drive covers approximately 240 km and takes around 6–7 hours, passing through some of the most expansive and dramatic landscapes on the Tibetan Plateau.

The route offers wide-open plains, distant snow-capped mountain ranges, and river valleys that stretch endlessly across the horizon. Along the way, you will encounter nomadic settlements, grazing yaks, and prayer flags marking sacred sites, offering insight into the traditional lifestyle of Tibetan plateau communities. The vastness of the landscape highlights the scale and isolation of Tibet, creating a sense of tranquility and reflection during the journey.

As you approach Shigatse, the scenery gradually changes, with more cultivated fields and settlements appearing along the road. Shigatse is historically significant as the seat of the Panchen Lama, the second most important figure in Tibetan Buddhism after the Dalai Lama. The city plays a vital role in Tibetan religious, political, and economic life.

Upon arrival in Shigatse, check into your 3-star hotel, where breakfast will be included during your stay. Afterward, you may take a short orientation walk around the city, observing daily life in local markets, traditional Tibetan shops, and busy streets where monks, traders, and residents go about their routines. This first impression of Shigatse provides a meaningful contrast between the remote plateau and urban Tibetan life. The remainder of the day is reserved for rest and relaxation after the long drive, allowing you to prepare comfortably for the next stage of your journey toward Lhasa.

After breakfast at your hotel in Shigatse (3,845 m / 12,605 ft.), depart for Lhasa, the spiritual and political heart of Tibet. The drive covers approximately 370 km and takes around 7–8 hours, traveling through high-altitude landscapes that rank among the most scenic routes in the region. 

One of the highlights of today’s journey is Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes. Its striking turquoise waters contrast beautifully with the surrounding snow-capped mountains, making it one of the most photographed locations in Tibet. Short stops along the route allow time to admire the scenery, take photographs, and experience the serene atmosphere of the plateau.

The drive continues through mountain passes adorned with prayer flags, offering panoramic views across vast valleys and distant peaks. These sacred passes are places where travelers traditionally pause to offer prayers for a safe journey, adding spiritual depth to the travel experience.

Upon arrival in Lhasa (3,650 m / 11,975 ft), check into your 3-star hotel with breakfast included, and spend the remainder of the day at leisure to acclimatize. You can take a gentle walk around the hotel area, observe local life, or simply relax while adjusting to the altitude. Lhasa’s streets showcase a unique blend of traditional Tibetan culture and modern development, offering a fascinating first impression of the city. This relaxed arrival allows you to prepare for the following days of in-depth sightseeing at Tibet’s most iconic landmarks.

After breakfast at your hotel in Lhasa, begin a full day of sightseeing exploring the city’s most prominent monastic and cultural landmarks. Start with Norbulingka Palace, the former summer residence of the Dalai Lamas, which spans an area of over 36 hectares and is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, ponds, and traditional Tibetan pavilions. The palace combines Tibetan architectural styles with influences from Han Chinese and Western designs, creating a visually captivating experience. Strolling through the extensive gardens, you can admire intricate carvings, murals, and statues, while the serene atmosphere reflects the palace’s role as a place of meditation, learning, and seasonal retreat for the Dalai Lamas. Your guide will explain the historical significance of Norbulingka and how it was used for religious festivals, cultural events, and political ceremonies.

Next, continue to Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world and a principal center of learning for the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. Established in 1416, Drepung housed thousands of monks at its peak and remains an important spiritual and educational center. Walking through the monastery complex, explore its assembly halls, chapels, and monk living quarters. The massive courtyards, prayer halls, and ancient libraries offer insight into the rigorous monastic education system, traditional rituals, and daily life of Tibetan monks. Your guide will also explain the monastery’s historical role in Tibetan governance and its connection to the Dalai Lamas.

In the afternoon, visit Sera Monastery, renowned for its lively monk debates, which are held in the courtyard during daylight hours. These debates are an essential component of monastic education, where young monks question senior monks on Buddhist philosophy, logic, and doctrine. Witnessing the debates provides a rare, immersive look into living Tibetan religious traditions. The monastery itself contains multiple temples, chapels, and residential halls, each decorated with colorful murals, statues, and frescoes illustrating Tibetan Buddhist teachings.

Throughout the day, your guide will provide in-depth explanations of the spiritual, historical, and cultural significance of each site, offering a richer understanding of Tibetan Buddhist heritage. After a full day of exploration and cultural immersion, return to your hotel to relax and enjoy a comfortable evening in the heart of Tibet’s capital.

After breakfast at your hotel, embark on a full day of sightseeing to explore Lhasa’s most iconic and spiritually significant landmarks. Begin with the majestic Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. Perched atop Marpo Ri Hill, the palace rises 13 stories and contains over 1,000 rooms, including chapels, assembly halls, libraries, and the tombs of past Dalai Lamas. Walking through its corridors, visitors can admire the intricate murals, gold-plated statues, and ancient scriptures that reflect centuries of Tibetan Buddhist artistry and devotion. The palace’s design showcases a perfect blend of Tibetan architectural genius and spiritual symbolism, with white and red palace sections representing secular and religious powers. From the terraces, panoramic views of Lhasa city, the surrounding valleys, and distant snow-capped peaks offer a breathtaking perspective of the Tibetan plateau.

Next, visit Jokhang Temple, regarded as the holiest temple in Tibet. Established in the 7th century, it houses the revered statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, believed to have been brought to Lhasa by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. Jokhang serves as the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism, attracting pilgrims from all over Tibet and beyond. Observe devotees performing kora, the ritual circumambulation around the temple, spinning prayer wheels, and offering prayers. The temple’s architecture combines Indian, Nepalese, and Tibetan styles, creating an extraordinary visual and spiritual experience. Walking through its halls, you can feel the depth of devotion, hear chants echoing through sacred spaces, and witness the timeless rituals that have persisted for centuries.

Conclude the day with a stroll through Barkhor Market, the historic pilgrimage circuit that encircles Jokhang Temple. This lively area is a vibrant mix of religion, culture, and commerce. Here, pilgrims continue their circumambulation while locals sell traditional Tibetan handicrafts, prayer beads, textiles, thangka paintings, and souvenirs. The market is also filled with small cafés, tea houses, and street vendors, providing a genuine glimpse into the daily life of Lhasa’s residents. The atmosphere is alive with colors, sounds, and fragrances, giving a unique perspective on the intersection of Tibetan spirituality and community life.

The afternoon is yours to immerse further in the rhythm of Lhasa, whether wandering through quiet side streets, visiting hidden shrines, or enjoying a moment of contemplation amid the city’s spiritual ambiance. This is an opportunity to reflect deeply on the rich cultural heritage and profound spiritual experiences of the day, from the grandeur of Potala Palace to the devotion at Jokhang Temple and the vibrant life of Barkhor Market. After a full day of exploration, return to your hotel to unwind, savoring a peaceful evening that allows the sights, sounds, and stories of Lhasa to resonate long after your day’s journey.

After breakfast at your hotel in Lhasa, begin an unforgettable journey toward Gyantse, one of Tibet’s most historic and culturally rich towns, situated at 3,977 m / 13,051 ft. The drive covers approximately 260 km and takes around 6–7 hours, winding through some of the most breathtaking and spiritually significant landscapes of southern Tibet. As you leave the bustling streets of Lhasa behind, the scenery gradually transforms into the vast, open expanse of the Tibetan plateau, punctuated by rugged mountains, pristine rivers, and traditional villages that reflect centuries of Tibetan life. This day offers not only a scenic journey but also an introduction to the diverse cultural and natural heritage of Tibet.

Soon after leaving Lhasa, the road ascends to high mountain passes adorned with colorful prayer flags, fluttering in the crisp mountain air. One of the day’s highlights is Yamdrok Lake, revered as one of Tibet’s sacred lakes. Its deep turquoise waters, stretching across rolling hills and snow-capped peaks, create a stunning visual contrast with the surrounding plateau. Short stops along the lake allow time for photography, quiet reflection, and appreciation of its spiritual significance, as Tibetan pilgrims often consider the lake a symbol of blessing and prosperity.

Continuing the journey, the route passes through fertile valleys and traditional Tibetan villages, where farming communities maintain centuries-old lifestyles. The contrast between these green valleys and the highland plateau highlights the diversity of Tibet’s landscapes. Villagers tend to terraced fields, while yaks and sheep graze nearby, offering travelers an authentic glimpse into daily Tibetan life and traditional practices.

As you approach Gyantse, the historic Gyantse Dzong rises above the town, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Upon arrival, explore the quieter streets of the town, taking in the well-preserved Kumbum Stupa, temples, and monasteries that highlight Gyantse’s spiritual heritage. The town’s serene atmosphere provides a peaceful contrast to the bustling energy of Lhasa, allowing you to immerse fully in the history and culture of southern Tibet.

The evening is reserved for relaxation, giving you time to reflect on the day’s remarkable sights and experiences, from the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake to the imposing Dzong and tranquil streets of Gyantse. Overnight at your 3-star hotel in Gyantse with breakfast included, resting comfortably amid the historic charm of this Tibetan town.

After breakfast at your hotel in Gyantse, embark on the long and scenic drive toward Kyirong, traversing the heart of central Tibet’s highlands. The journey spans approximately 400 km and takes around 8–9 hours, offering multiple opportunities for sightseeing stops and to admire the ever-changing landscapes along the route. Leaving Gyantse, the road winds through expansive valleys, sparkling rivers, and broad plains, providing sweeping views of Tibet’s vast and varied interior. As you approach Shigatse, the region’s second-largest city, take in its bustling streets, traditional markets, and surrounding countryside, which reflect its historical and cultural significance as a regional hub.

Continuing westward, the terrain gradually transitions from the high-altitude plateau to greener hills and forested slopes, signaling your approach to the Himalayan foothills. Along the way, you may observe nomadic tents, grazing yaks and sheep, and rivers cutting through deep valleys, offering a vivid insight into the daily life of local communities and the natural beauty of southern Tibet. The drive showcases the striking contrast between the stark, high-altitude landscapes of central Tibet and the milder, more temperate lowlands near Kyirong.

Upon arrival in Kyirong (2,700 m / 8,858 ft), take time to relax and unwind after the long journey. The town’s lower altitude and gentler climate provide a comfortable environment to reflect on the day’s remarkable experiences, while the evening is perfect for a leisurely stroll through the peaceful streets, absorbing the slower pace of life compared to the high plateau. Overnight at your 3-star hotel with breakfast included, resting comfortably before continuing your journey toward Nepal.

After breakfast at your hotel in Kyirong, begin the drive toward the Rasuwagadhi border, covering approximately 150 km. The journey takes around 6–7 hours, depending on border formalities and road conditions, passing through lush valleys, rivers, and rural settlements. You will have opportunities to stop for photographs and enjoy the scenic transition from the Tibetan highlands to the Himalayan foothills.

Upon reaching the Rasuwagadhi border, complete immigration and customs procedures on both the Tibetan and Nepalese sides. Travelers are required to present passports, Tibet travel permits, and relevant visas for inspection. The border process includes document verification, vehicle permits, and sometimes luggage checks. While procedures may take some time, this experience offers insight into cross-border operations and local administrative systems, reflecting the formal entry and exit process between Tibet and Nepal.

After crossing into Nepal, continue the drive through mountainous terrain, terraced hills, and forested valleys toward Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft). The changing landscape is immediately noticeable, contrasting the open plateau of Tibet with Nepal’s green hills and traditional villages. Along the way, roadside markets, small temples, and rural settlements provide insight into daily life in northern Nepal.

Arrive in Kathmandu in the late afternoon or early evening and check into your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax, unwind, and reflect on the cultural contrasts and stunning landscapes experienced along the journey. Overnight at your 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast included.

After breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu, enjoy a relaxed day combining light sightseeing and leisure. Begin with a visit to Swayambhunath Stupa, famously known as the Monkey Temple, perched atop a hill that overlooks the Kathmandu Valley. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning panoramic views of the city and holds deep spiritual significance for both Buddhists and Hindus.

Walking around the stupa, observe the rhythm of daily life as monks chant, pilgrims spin prayer wheels, and resident monkeys move freely around the complex, creating a unique and lively atmosphere. The intricate murals, golden spires, and traditional architecture of the stupa reflect centuries of religious devotion and artistic heritage, making it one of Nepal’s most iconic landmarks.

The remainder of the day is free for leisure and exploration. You may stroll through the vibrant local markets, purchase traditional souvenirs, experience a café serving local delicacies, or simply relax at your hotel. This combination of sightseeing and unstructured time allows you to absorb the culture, spirituality, and energy of Kathmandu at your own pace.

The evening provides a perfect opportunity to reflect on your journey through Nepal and Tibet, appreciating the rich cultural tapestry, spiritual traditions, and scenic landscapes experienced throughout the tour. Overnight at your 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast included, resting comfortably after a day of exploration.

Concluding Your Journey in Nepal
As your remarkable journey through the Himalayas comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on the awe-inspiring natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and memorable experiences that have defined your time in Nepal. From the majestic mountain landscapes to the warm hospitality of the local communities, every moment has contributed to an unforgettable adventure.

Airport Transfer by Jagadamba Holidays
To ensure a smooth and timely departure, an official representative from Jagadamba Holidays will collect you from your hotel 3.5 hours prior to your scheduled flight departure. Our team is committed to providing a reliable and comfortable transfer service to Tribhuvan International Airport, allowing you to conclude your journey with peace of mind.

We sincerely appreciate your trust in Jagadamba Holidays and hope to have the pleasure of serving you again on your future journeys.