Tibet: Beijing to Kathmandu Overland

Intrepid Travel · 15 days

4.5

1 Reviews

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Duration

15 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Demanding

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Go on an epic 5000-km overland journey from imperial Beijing, through the mystical land of Tibet, to Nepal’s compact capital, Kathmandu.

Highlights

Like everything else it does, China’s ancient history is on a grand scale – see it first-hand, with time to explore and walk the epic Great Wall’s Mutianyu section.
Sit back and relax on one of the world’s greatest train journeys – a marathon 45-hour ride to the literal Roof of the World, passing by incredibly mountainous and remote terrain, and the occasional grazing yak!
Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture, from the spiritual side – explored on monastery visits, pilgrim trails and a monk-led meditation session – to traditional daily life, experienced at a momo-making class and Tibetan family home.
Climb phenomenal mountain passes and thrilling peaks on your scenic overland journey to see the mightiest of them all – Mt Everest – and visit the world’s highest monastery on your way!
With a Tibetan leader by your side, it’s a great opportunity to gain true local insight and understanding of the Tibetan culture and the modern life on the plateau .

Trip Details

Duration

15 days

Transportation

Overnight Sleeper Train,Private Bus,Public Bus

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Beijing, China

Finishes

Kathmandu, China

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer, Rail & Cruises

Physical Rating

Demanding

Itinerary

Day 1: Beijing

Huanying! Welcome to China. Touch down in China’s capital, Beijing, ready for a high-altitude adventure! Your trip begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your trip leader and travel companions. After this important meeting, why not get together with your group for an optional dinner, perhaps finding one of the best Beijing duck restaurants in the city. Your group leader will definitely know of some wonderful places where you can eat this delicious speciality.

Optional Activities:

Beijing - Forbidden City (60 CNY)
Beijing - Lama Temple (entrance fee) (25 CNY)
Beijing - Temple of Heaven (entrance fee) (40 CNY)
Beijing - Summer Palace (entrance fee) (60 CNY)
Beijing - Panjiayuan Antique Market - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Great Wall – Train to the Roof of the World

Today, you’ll take an early morning drive to visit one of the most well-preserved areas of the Great Wall – the Mutianyu section. An incredible piece of engineering, the wall stretches 6000 km westwards from the mountain ridges north of Beijing. It's a 30-minute climb up some steep steps to reach it, but you’ll be rewarded with an incredible view of the Great Wall winding along the mountains. Travel back to the city and in the late afternoon, transfer to Beijing West Railway Station – one of the biggest and busiest in the world – to start your mighty train journey to Lhasa (approximately 45 hours). Be aware that, on the odd occasion, there may be interruptions to this schedule – see the ‘Special Information’ section of your first day in Beijing for more details.

Included Activities:

Beijing - Mutianyu Great Wall

Accommodation:

Overnight Hard Sleeper Train (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Train to the Roof of the World

Today, all you can do is sit back, relax and take in the mountainous ridges and remote terrain along the highest railway in the world. The journey takes you through the major cities of Xi'an, Lanzhou and Xining, and across the wide open highlands of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, with a speckling of grazing yaks and sheep, plus a glistening lake. On this second night, you’ll climb in altitude and your breath will likely be taken away by the changing landscapes outside the windows – snow-dusted black cliffs and mountain peaks illuminated by moonlight.

Accommodation:

Overnight Hard Sleeper Train (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Lhasa (3656m)

Say goodbye to your local train pals and your home for the last two nights after lunch time, and be greeted by Lhasa's crisp mountain air. The colourful and historic holy city of Lhasa is situated in a small valley, and for hundreds of years it was a mysterious place, virtually unknown to the outside world. Lhasa remains an intriguing city with deeply fascinating cultures, sights and stories. Check in to your hotel later this afternoon and begin to get acclimatised with both the city and the altitude.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Lhasa (3656 m/11,995 ft)

Start your first full day in Lhasa with a walking tour of the old town. Walk among pilgrims on Barkhor Street, otherwise known as Holy Road. Encircling the sacred Jokhang Temple, this incense-scented street is where Tibetan Buddhists perform meditative koras, following the loop in a clockwise direction. Around noon, visit a local family to learn how tsampa (ground barley, a Tibetan staple), yak butter tea and momos (moreish Tibetan dumplings) are made. After lunch, visit Sera Monastery and witness the resident monks taking part in heated debates in the courtyards – you probably won’t understand a thing that they are debating, but their exaggerated gestures and the passions they display make this one of the most exciting people watching spots in Lhasa.

Included Activities:

Lhasa - Sera Monastery & Monk Debating
Lhasa - Tibetan cooking class
Lhasa - Old town and Barkhor Street walking tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Lhasa

This morning, visit Potala Palace, the incredible former home of the Dalai Lama that’s perched 130 m above the city. The palace is divided into two parts: the White Palace (secular and used as offices) and the Red Palace (home to chapels, shrines, and tombs of Dalai Lamas). Your guide will give you the inside scoop on what is truly a wonder of the architectural world. After, visit Jokhang Temple – considered the spiritual heart and most sacred temple of Tibet. It always attracts steady waves of pilgrims. Explore this large world heritage-listed site and learn a thing or two about its history. According to legend, the temple was built atop a lake after many failed attempts to build monasteries nearby. Then, enjoy some free time and maybe find a Tibetan tea house, try some sweet Tibetan milk tea or savory yuk butter tea and mingle with the hospitable locals.

Included Activities:

Lhasa - Potala Palace
Lhasa - Jokhang Temple

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Gyantse (4000 m/13,123 ft)

Traverse a scenic section of the Tibetan Plateau on a long drive, heading towards Gyantse, crossing over stunning mountain passes as you twist through dramatic valleys and peaks. Go by the shimmering Yamdrok Lake, climb the Khama La Pass, spot sheep herder villages scattered along the banks, and marvel at the soaring Noijin Kangsang – the peak of the Lhagoi Kangri Mountain Range. You’ll stop by the roadside town of Nangartse for lunch, before driving the Karo La pass, then descending to your destination for tonight, Gyantse. This small rural town is perfect to just wander around and watch contemporary Tibetan life play out in front of you – where pilgrims mix with pop music, cows stroll past cowboys on motorbikes and monks go about their daily business.

Included Activities:

Gyantse - Yamdrok Lake

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Shigatse (3800 m/12,467 ft)

This morning, check out the unique Gyantse Kumbum – an impressive layered stupa on the grounds of the Pelkor Monastery. Each floor of this six-level structure can be visited, and as you wind up the floors past several tiny chapels, the air fills more and more with incense and the passageways get narrower on each step towards enlightenment. Later today, there’s a chance to experience a simple lunch at a family’s home, which is a great opportunity to listen to some personal stories of living in Tibet, all the while enjoying warm hospitality. After lunch, head towards Tibet’s second-largest city, Shigatse. Translating to ‘all fortune and happiness gathered here’, Shigatse is a busy, mountain-clasped city that’s rapidly modernising. With some free time this afternoon, maybe head to the local bazaar and check out the local wares that this town has to offer.

Included Activities:

Gyantse - Tibetan family visit & lunch
Gyantse - Pelkor Chode Monastery
Gyantse - Kumbum

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Shigatse

This morning, take a visit to the Tashilhunpo Monastery. Your group leader will take you on a tour through parts of the monastery – each building has its own intricate decorations, legends and religious imagery. Be sure to ask for directions to the tranquil Chapel of Jampa and meditate on the world's largest gilded statue. The courtyard outside of the Kelsang Chapel is one of the best places to observe the pilgrims and monks prepare for ceremonies. In the evening, perhaps join the pilgrims on their kora (prayer circuit), spinning prayer wheels on a 1-hour walk around the perimeter of the monastery while taking in its splendid, atmospheric views.

Included Activities:

Shigatse - Tashilhunpo Monastery

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Sakya (4316 m/14,160 ft)

Continue your journey west to the town of Sakya. This region is known for its grey (kya) earth (sa), and so, provides the town’s name! Its monastery was built in 1073, and was originally in two sections, one on either side of the Zhongqu River, until the Northern structure was destroyed during the Cultural Revolution. The Southern Monastery is built in a medieval 'Mongolian' style, and rather than being whitewashed, the secular buildings are painted red, white and grey in honour of the three Buddhist Tulkas (notable lamas). You’ll have time to explore inside its high walls and admire some of its many shrines, temples and monastic residences. Afterwards, your leader will take you to meet new friends at the local nunnery. You’ll be introduced to shy but friendly resident nuns, sit down and enjoy some laughter together, and just for a second, forget that you don’t speak each other’s language at all.

Included Activities:

Sakya - Sakya Monastery
Sakya - Nunery visit

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Everest National Park (5200 m/17,060 ft)

An exhilarating drive brings you to Everest National Park. When you arrive, leave your main luggage in the vehicle and take an overnight bag on the park shuttle to Rongbuk Monastery – the world's highest monastery. On a clear day you might spot Everest (Qomolangma in Tibetan) behind its stupa. Share tea with a resident monk and learn what life is like here, before taking part in a short meditation – where better to find stillness than this lofty centre of spirituality, surrounded by timeless mountains? Tonight you’ll camp in yak hair tents. Relax at the site or take a walk to Everest Base Camp Monument Stone. This is the closest you can get to Base Camp on the Chinese/Tibetan side. Witnessing Everest renders many speechless – your leader will explain why it's such so sacred for Tibetans. After, opt to hike to the upper monastery, visiting caves where monks meditated centuries ago.

Included Activities:

Everest National Park - Rongphu Monastery
Everest National Park - Base Camp Monument (Chinese side)
Rongbu Monastery - Meditation & Tea (at the highest monastery in the world)

Accommodation:

Permanent Tent Camp or Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Kyirong (2774 m/9101 ft)

Take one last look at Everest close up before the long drive ahead. You’ll travel to the Tibet–Nepal border today, stopping at the closest town of Kyirong. The effort will be worth it with the changing scenery around you – from the barren highlands of Tibet to the deep Alpine Valley. Put your feet up tonight and enjoy a dinner with your Tibetan leader who will say goodbye to you tomorrow.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Kathmandu

This morning, cross the border from Tibet into Nepal. Keep in mind today that your Tibetan group leader and driver will bid you farewell at the border, and you’ll need to pass through immigration and customs unaccompanied. Once you’ve crossed the border, your Nepal group leader will be waiting on the other side! The border crossing can be long and dull depending on the queues and volume of people, so it is best to be patient. After the formalities are all over, head onto Kathmandu, the final destination of your trip. Upon arrival in the late afternoon, why not follow your Nepal leader on an orientation walk and get to know this bustling capital.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Kathmandu

This morning, venture out with your leader and explore the old town of Kathmandu. Experience the hustle and bustle of the ancient streets of the Kathmandu valley and the Asan Tole and Indrda Chowk Bazaar, centrally located in the old Kathmandu. Full of vibrant colors and noises, surrounded by temples, stupas and market stalls, this is the hub of the daily Kathmandu life. It also a unique ‘Pote’ bazaar. Pote are beads worn by married Hindu women and made by Muslims. And not too far is Machindra bahal temple, worshipped by Hindus and Buddhists. Learn how the locals weave their beliefs into their daily life and gain confidence in navigating the zigzaging lanes in the old city. Enjoy some free time afterwards. You may want to explore Dubar Square, or head to Swayambhunath and explore. Maybe get together your group in the evening again and celebrate this epic trip with some delicious local cuisine.

Included Activities:

Kathmandu - Leader-led old city walking tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Kathmandu

With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave the accommodation at any time. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to come to an end! If you'd like to spend more time in Kathmandu, just speak to your booking agent.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $5,995

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 15 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Demanding

Go on an epic 5000-km overland journey from imperial Beijing, through the mystical land of Tibet, to Nepal’s compact capital, Kathmandu.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 13 Apr 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

Catherine

Traveled, October 2024

11/10/2024

My trip to Tibet, starting with long distance train to Lhasa was well organized and implemented. Guide Pema is excellent: personable and knowledgeable. I enjoyed the temples although they are a bit overwhelming with so much art. Due to landslides we didn’t do Friendship Hwy to Kathmandu. The alternative: flight to Chengdu and panda park was a bust. Overcrowded, grubby, a letdown after the blue skies of Tibet. Lots and lots of walk up and down steep, uneven steps was challenging at times, but hiking poles and paying attention helped. A very worthwhile experience plus our tour group were fun and clear eyed about the 3rd world challenges

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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