Tibet
Welcome to Tibet – a land rich in culture, tradition and religion among the far flung unique landscape that is aptly called the ‘Roof of the World’. This part of the world, now Chinese territory but retaining its own identity, is more easily accessible, especially from neighboring Nepal.
The main trip we run is a seven night/eight day road trip from Kathmandu to Lhasa with the option of returning to Kathmandu included (although many chose to make their own way into China). This tour can be run either with a group by bus or as a private trip in a four-wheel-drive and will include all breakfasts along the way. Please see the itinerary below, all group tours leave on Tuesdays and Saturdays, but do ask us if you need to leave a different day and we will try to accommodate your request.
Let the age old Tibetan myths & mysteries cast an enchanted spell that holds its visitors in thrill and excitement.
“ADVENTURE ON THE “ROOF OF THE WORLD”
TIBET OVERLAND TOUR – Group USD$450pp / Private USD$975pp
The first part of the tour offers fascinating views of the incredible formation of the highest plateau in the world with awesomely beautiful rocks, cascades and canyons that are slightly hidden in the thin flying mists amidst the mighty presence of Mount Shishapangma (8,212m).
The second part of the tour brings you very close to the Shangri-La of Tibet, making you feel as if you are a part of the unique culture that can be compared to a rich tapestry woven with legends, myths, rituals and festivals.
The finale takes you over the majestic Himalayas, offering you the long, cherished and breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges, including Mount Everest, (8,848m) through an hour long trans-Himalayan flight on your way back from Lhasa to Kathmandu (this is at an additional cost of USD$500, otherwise it is a full day bus ride).
Most interestingly, this tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to admire and compare the magnificence of the lofty Himalayas from three dimensions: south, north as well as from the sky. The memories of your holiday in Tibet will be enriched by the lingering impression of the most lavishly decorated monasteries & temples, saffron coloured monks, ever smiling people, their typical lifestyle and above all, the challenging Himalayas.
This is the right overland tour which covers the best parts of the country and promises you a holiday that is more than a dream but a voyage of adventure and discovery. Your seven-night package includes a hotel stays on a bed and breakfast basis as well as all transport.
Visas
Everyone will need a visa to visit Tibet, which is separate from anything you will need to visit the rest of mainland China. As it stands (April 2010) the cost is USD$114 per person to issue the visa within seven days of entering the country. However, if you are able to sort this out beforehand then the cost is reduced dramatically to USD$58. Please contact us if you wish us to organise these for you with no additional fee.
Climate
You can travel to Tibet throughout the year but mid-July through to the end of September is the best period. The temperature varies sharply from the southern grasslands to the northern plateau. The south is warm and rainy and most rainfall occurs during May to September. It is warm from June to August and the coldest months are December to February; crossing over the passes becomes almost impossible during this time.
Accommodation
Hotels/guest houses have basic facilities, even in the capital of Lhasa. We always try to provide our clients with twins room but it may not always be possible, the same can be said of hot water. There are certain challenges that come with visiting a country like Tibet, and we hope that our clients understand that certain situations can be out of our control and accept that these difficulties are all part of the adventure.
Transportation
From Kathmandu, you will be transferred by a van/coach to Kodari (Tibet border-116 km) accompanied by our escort team and from the Tibet border onwards, the Tibetan crew will drive you all the way to Lhasa.
In the event of landslides or a road blockade the services of porters to carry your luggage or the need to hire another mode of transport to continue the onward journey you may be asked to contribute a nominal sum of money, we hope you understand such situations are out of our control.
Guides
Tibetan guides are reported to have limited English speaking skills and you may not expect a fluent explanation about culture and religion or any other academic topics. They will serve more as a geographical guide and will be responsible for dealing with bureaucracies on the way. However, we will try our best to assign you the best available guide.
Clothing
The weather is cold, harsh and dry and you will need enough warm clothes, shoes, sun screen, sunglasses, hats, scarves, lip guard etc.
Food
Your tour package only includes breakfast so, you may wish to carry some energy bars and dry food like chocolate, biscuits etc that you can eat on the way. Restaurants in Lhasa, Gyantse and Xigatse
serve a variety of cuisines ranging from Chinese to Continental but in other places, you will only find basic Tibetan food.
Money
In China, you will have to use RMB (Chinese money). The banks are closed on Saturdays and Sundays but you will encounter a money changer everyday in the border area. Travelers cheques or credit cards are not accepted in most parts of Tibet, so, you may want to carry about USD100 in cash for lunch/dinner and for small souvenirs.
Tipping
Guides and drivers will be happy to receive tips and in fact it motivates them to work harder and provide better service. While it is not mandatory, it is generally expected as these guides rely heavily on such donations.
Altitude Sickness
Travelers to Tibet are reported to exhibit mild symptoms of altitude sickness so some measure of precaution and remedies should be taken. Complaints of headaches, fevers, loss of appetite, dizziness, stomach upsets etc can come up before acclimatisation is fully completed and should be mentioned as soon as they are first felt. Travelers with heart, lung and blood diseases should consult their doctors before they sign up for a trip. It is vital to keep hydrated at all times and rest is recommended if you notice any of the adore-mentioned symptoms.
