Kathmandu- Kyirong –Lhasa Overland Tour by Bus

The Kathmandu-Tibet scenic drive starts with a drive via the Rasuwa region, heading towards the Kyirong Border, which is about 160 kilometers from Kathmandu. The road is mostly paved but does feature some rough patches, particularly near the border. The drive takes you through lush valleys, terraced hillsides, and forests, offering glimpses of traditional Nepali villages along the way. 

Cross the border at Kyirong, which will be your official start in Tibet. Kyirong, a mountain-surrounded city, the gate between Nepal and Tibet, welcomes you. Border-crossing formalities are involved here that might take some time; thus, your patience is highly appreciated to complete all border formalities in order. Once the formalities are completed, now you are inside Tibet, from where a local Tibetan guide joins you to begin your Tibetan excursion.

From Kyirong, your route goes northeast towards Tingri, a very remote township lying at an altitude of about 4,300 meters. Tingri is famous for receiving some of the most spectacular close-up views of the Himalayas, including iconic Mount Everest (8,848 meters), Cho Oyu and Mount Makalu. The surreal landscape of open expanses of sand, high-overhauling passes, and, at times, Tibetan nomadic settlements marks the drive from Kyirong onwards to Tingri. 

While crossing this high-altitude region, the stark beauty of the Tibetan Plateau unfolds before you, and travelers are often mesmerized by the raw, untamed beauty of the environment. This stretch offers not only spectacular mountain views but also an introduction to the spiritual and cultural atmosphere of Tibet.

After Tingri, the next stop on the overland tour is Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. Shigatse is one of the most important cultural and religious centers in the region, and its most notable attraction is the Tashilhunpo Monastery. This historic monastery is the seat of the Panchen Lama, the second most important spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism, after the Dalai Lama. 

Tashilhunpo is one of Tibet's largest and most revered monasteries, with an impressive collection of Buddhist statues, shrines, and artifacts. Apart from the monastery, travelers can take a stroll around the busy markets of Shigatse and shop for Tibetan handicrafts, traditional clothes, and religious artifacts to further soak in the rich culture of Tibet.

From Shigatse, the journey continues toward Gyantse, another town holding great historical and religious significance. Gyantse is best known for its Khumbum Stupa and the Palkhor Monastery, both of which are prime examples of Tibetan Buddhist architecture. The Khumbum Stupa is a unique multi-story stupa that features intricate murals and paintings depicting various Buddhist deities and scenes. 

It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Tibet. Close by is Palkhor Monastery, a good example of inside monastic life, with its fascinating array of Buddhist statues, paintings, and relics. Here, one finds a strong cultural point: the possibility to deeply learn about religious habits and artifacts of Tibet, for which this location is considered by many a priority to see along the overland route.

During the tour, Lhasa would be the next biggest stop, being the capital of Tibet and a city considered the cultural and religious hub. The city of Lhasa is considered one of the most important cities when it comes to Tibetan Buddhism, having a bunch of sacred temples and historical landmarks. 

This city hosts the world-renowned Potala Palace, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list; this structure has once been used by the Dalai Lama during winter. POTALA PALACE-Towering above the city of Lhasa and commanding a dominant view of that city, inside this architectural jewel there can be found chapels, shrines, and an assortment of other relics evoking Tibet's considerable spirituality. 

Not to get lost among celebrated sights within Lhasa City, Jokhang Temple is considered one of the most sacrosanct in Tibetan Buddhism. The Temple, right in the middle of Lhasa, attracts pilgrims from all across Tibet and even beyond. Visitors can watch the daily rituals and ceremonies and meditate for some time in the serenity of this ancient place. 

The Barkhor Market, next to Jokhang Temple, is another must-see attraction in Lhasa. This is a busy market with shops selling all kinds of Tibetan goods, from religious artifacts and traditional handicrafts to souvenirs and clothes. It is a very good place to see the vibrant life of Lhasa and its people.

Lhasa also hosts the Sera Monastery and Drepung Monastery, both considered major religious sites. The Sera Monastery is famous for its lively sessions of debating amongst the monks, wherein intellect is posed in the form of debates regarding Buddhist lessons in life. 

Drepung Monastery, one of the most extensive in the region of Tibet, offers quiet surroundings and lessons in the ways of life in a typical Tibetan monastery. Besides that, Lhasa has the Norbulingka Palace, situated in beautiful gardens and surrounded by lakes, the summer residence of the Dalai Lama.

The Kathmandu-Kyirong-Lhasa Overland Tour by Bus is not just a journey through magnificent landscapes; rather, it's an exploration of Tibet's deeply rooted cultural and religious traditions. Travelers drive along Tibetan monasteries, historical landmarks, and striking natural beauty-enriching and transforming. From the awe-inspiring height of the Himalayas to sacred places of Buddhism, a trip on this overland will be truly unforgettable through the Roof of the World.