8 Days Overland to Kathmandu Tour

During these next few days, we will travel over the Gampa la Pass and Karo la Pass to Gyantse and Shigatse. Both of these towns are nestled deep within the western Tibetan plateau and are a must-see for any visitor interested in the emersion of both culture and tradition. Following the Brahmaputra River, we will trek through the terrain of the Gampa la Pass(4900m). For some, this hike may be difficult but the view of the holy Yomdrok Lake is absolutely breathtaking. Mt.Nyenchen Kangsar, with its snow-capped peaks, only adds to the beauty of this lush landscape. On our way to Gyantse and Shigatse, scattered villages and lone stupas greet us along the road. Both Gyantse and Shigatse are well known for their historical and religious value and many foreigners have been known to enjoy these ancient towns. Gyantse is also known as a ‘hero’s town’ and was previously the capital of a 14th-century kingdom. Another reason to visit these two beautiful towns is to get a feel for authentic traditional Tibetan life as these regions have slightly different traditions than those of Lhasa.  Once we arrive in these two towns, we will visit the Gyantse Kubhum stupa and Tashi Lhunpo monastery.

We gradually and steadily ascend into the mountainous Himalayan region and traverse some remarkable passes. The first panoramic view of the Himalayas can be seen from the ridge of Gyatso la Pass (5400m).  There are an innumerable number of snow-capped peaks. Through the barren mountains, astonishing landscapes and photogenic villages are true gems within these hidden valleys and it is not hard to imagine what this landscape would have looked like a few hundred years ago. We then approach the world’s highest peak, Mt. Everest, which rises at 8844.4 m. After reaching the base of the massive mountain, we will spend a night in Rongbuk Valley and it is only a short hike to the EBC marker. Herds of wild goats perch atop large boulders and the sight of small mammals is not uncommon. As we awake the next morning, a striking view of luminous peaks is highlighted by the sun and it is bittersweet to say goodbye to this landscape that we have gotten to know so well. Next, we will drive south to Nepal and traverse the Thongla Pass. We will then gradually descend into a deep valley with a series of switchback bends. There are spectacular waterfalls on both sides of these fertile hills and with a decrease in altitude, the dry climate changes into a warm, moist environment and it is clear that we have finally reached the Indian subcontinent.

Today is the last day of our travels together. Before your departure, we would appreciate it if you would spend a few minutes evaluating our services for future improvement. You can either give the feedback form to your guide or just write us a simple email detailing the highlights of the trip or any complaints. After being greeted by Nepalese escorts, we will drive to the border of Nepal and take a short rest in the border town of Datopani.  Then drive to Kathmandu and take you to the hotel that you booked.