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Destination
Tibet, Multi Country
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Region
China/Tibet/Nepal
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Trip Grade
Grade 3: Hard/challenging
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Accommodation
Hotel
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Total Distance
4000km
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Start / End Point
Beijing/Kathmandu
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Durations
22 days
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Max. Altitude
5630m/18472ft
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Meals Included
Breakfast
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Group Size
above 1 pax
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Best Season
March to May/sept to Nove
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Activity per day
8 hr
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Transportation
Private Luxury Tourist Vehicles
Beijing – Xian – Lhasa – Kailash- EBC – Kathmandu Tour Overview
Beijing – Xian – Lhasa – Kailash – EBC – Kathmandu Tour is a unique 22-day tour that will bring you through China, Tibet, and Nepal, experiencing the heart of both countries.
This tour gives you a unique chance to visit the most significant sites, learn the country’s history, and feel these territories.
Some of the major attractions of this tour are the Forbidden City, which today is a palace museum; Tian’anmen Square, a symbolic place of political power in the country; and the Hutongs – the Old Quarters with a rich historical atmosphere and cultural essence.
When traveling to Xi’an by high-speed train, some of the most famous relics in China are in store for you.
You will visit the Terracotta Warriors and get insights on how the first emperor of China had this entire army made to guard him in his tomb.
Then, you will explore the Muslim Quarter, sample Xi’an’s local specialties, and purchase souvenirs. It is a very important stop because experiencing what you have in the Terracotta Army, the ancient City Wall, and the Shaanxi History Museum will increase your knowledge of the importance of Xi’an’s history.
The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau provides scenery that is fresh and new with every mile. In Lhasa, you will visit the Jokhang Temple, the spiritual center for Tibetan Buddhism, and the bustle of Barkhor Street. During the Sera Monastery, one gets an opportunity to attend the monk debates, meaning that the area is full of spiritual lives.
Your journey takes a spiritual turn when you journey to Kora, around the Holy Mount Kailash. Many people consider this to be a spiritually powerful three-day hike, as well as amazing views of majestic mountains and calm nature.
After that, you will be visiting the foothills of the mighty Mount Everest at the Everest Base Camp (EBC). This view of the world’s tallest mountain will make you catch your breath, as it would marvel at the Himalayas. The trip to EBC is unforgettable due to the amazing scenery, colorful prayer flags, and the feeling of being surrounded by nature.
Last but not least, your journey ends in Kathmandu, the colorful capital city of Nepal. You can experience cultural and historical places like Swayambhunath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Boudhanath Stupa.
It is not just the scenery of mountains, exotic beaches, and hundreds of thousands of years old temples; it is an unforgettable journey into an exciting country’s spirit enriched with the cultural experience of thousands of years old countries.
Highlights
- Key highlights of Beijing include the Great Wall, the vast Forbidden City (a former imperial palace and now the Palace Museum), the expansive Summer Palace with its royal gardens, and the significant Temple of Heaven, an ancient imperial ceremonial site. Visitors can also experience traditional life in the Hutongs, explore the vast Tiananmen Square, and see modern architectural icons like the Bird's Nest Olympic Stadium
- Visit all the iconic sites of Beijing: Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City, and Old Hutongs.
- Hike some of the amazing Mutianyu sections of the Great Wall.
- The main highlights of Xi'an are the Terracotta Army, an ancient collection of terracotta sculptures, and the Xi'an City Wall, a remarkably preserved ancient city wall that you can bike on. Other key attractions include the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Shaanxi History Museum, the Muslim Quarter with its Great Mosque, and the Bell Tower and Drum Tower
- Terracotta Army: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring thousands of life-sized terracotta sculptures of soldiers, horses, and chariots, built to protect the First Emperor of China in the afterlife.
- Xi'an City Wall: The largest and best-preserved ancient city wall in China, offering a unique opportunity to bike or walk along its extensive ramparts.
- Big Wild Goose Pagoda: A historic Buddhist pagoda built in 652 A.D., known for its antiquity and historical significance related to the Buddha.
- Shaanxi History Museum: A magnificent museum housing a vast collection of historical relics, primarily from the Zhou to Tang Dynasties.
- Muslim Quarter: A bustling area perfect for experiencing local culture, trying delicious snacks, and visiting the impressive Great Mosque.
- Bell Tower and Drum Tower: Iconic landmarks located in the geographical center of the ancient city, symbolizing its history.
- Take an incredibly beautiful Qinghai-Tibet train journey to Lhasa.
- The highlights of Lhasa, Tibet, include the iconic Potala Palace, the deeply sacred Jokhang Temple, the bustling Barkhor Street pilgrimage route, the historic Sera and Drepung Monasteries, and the former summer residence of the Dalai Lamas, Norbulingka. These sites offer a deep dive into Tibetan Buddhist culture and architecture, with the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Norbulingka being UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Potala Palace: The former winter palace of the Dalai Lamas, this vast architectural complex is a symbol of Lhasa and a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring intricate murals, sculptures, and artifacts.
- Jokhang Temple: Considered one of Tibetan Buddhism's most sacred sites, this 7th-century temple at the heart of Lhasa is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and a significant pilgrimage destination.
- Barkhor Street: This ancient street circles the Jokhang Temple and remains a vibrant center for pilgrims and local vendors selling Tibetan goods and souvenirs.
- Sera Monastery & Drepung Monastery: These large, historic Buddhist monasteries are home to many monks and offer a glimpse into monastic life, including the famous monk debates at Sera.
- Norbulingka: The summer residence of the Dalai Lamas, this park is a beautiful example of Tibetan art and architecture.
- Get a scenic view of the world's highest peak from Everest Base Camp.
- The primary highlight of Mount Kailash is its deep spiritual significance to multiple religions, particularly for the Kailash Kora (circumambulation), where pilgrims circle the holy mountain. Other key highlights include its sacred location near Lake Mansarovar, its unique four-faced structure representing different mythical elements, the diverse landscapes surrounding it, and the vibrant Saga Dawa festival.
- Religious Hub: Mount Kailash is revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers as a sacred mountain, symbolizing the spiritual center of the world or the axis mundi.
- Kailash Kora: The most significant activity is the circumambulation, or "Kora" in Tibetan, around the mountain. It is believed to cleanse pilgrims of accumulated sins and bring them closer to spiritual enlightenment.
- Participate in the holy trek around Mount Kailash, more famously known as the Sacred Kailash Kora. Spend some time at Lake Manasarovar in serenity.
- Cross over to Tibet-Nepal for a change of landscape and culture.
- The main highlights of Kathmandu, Nepal, include the ancient temples and monuments of Durbar Square, the large Buddhist stupas of Boudhanath and Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple), and the sacred Hindu site of Pashupatinath Temple. Visitors also enjoy exploring the bustling Thamel neighborhood for shopping and dining, escaping the city's bustle at the Garden of Dreams, and visiting the historic Narayanhiti Palace Museum.
- Kathmandu Durbar Square: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient palaces, temples, and intricate Newari architecture.
- Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest stupas in the world and a major center for Tibetan Buddhism, filled with vibrant prayer flags and monasteries.
- Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): A historic Buddhist temple perched on a hill, offering great city views and a large population of monkeys.
- Pashupatinath Temple: A highly sacred Hindu temple on the banks of the Bagmati River, a significant pilgrimage site for people from all over South Asia.
Outline Itinerary
- Day01: Beijing Arrival | Airport Pick-up and Hotel Check-in.
- Day02: Beijing City Tour | Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Old Hutongs(B).
- Day03: Beijing Great Wall Tour | Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird’s Nest & Water Cube(B).
- Day04: Beijing to Xian by High-Speed Train | Summer Palace(B).
- Day05: Xian City Tour | Terracotta Warriors, Muslim Quarter(B).
- Day06: Xian City Tour | Shaanxi History Museum, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda & Ancient City Wall(B).
- Day07: Xian Board Train to Lhasa | Enjoy Train Journey(B).
- Day08: Train Ride View Stunning Scenery of Qinghai-Tibet | Lhasa Arrival(B).
- Day09: Lhasa City Tour | Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery, Barkhor Street(B).
- Day10: Lhasa Culture Tour(B).
- Day11: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse(B).
- Day12: Shigatse - Mt. Everest | Gyawu La Pass, Rongbuk Monastery, Mt. Everest Base Camp(B).
- Day13: EBC - Peiku Tso Lake - Saga(B).
- Day14: Saga - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen(B).
- Day15: Darchen to Dirapuk(B).
- Day16: Dirapuk to Zutulpuk(B).
- Day17: Zutulpuk to Saga(B).
- Day18: Saga to Gyirong(B).
- Day19: Gyirong to Border and Transfer to Kathmandu(B).
- Day20: Free and Leisure Day in Kathmandu(B).
- Day21: Kathmandu City Tour (Syambhu, KTM Durbar Square, Pashupati, Boudhanath)(B).
- Day22: Depart from Kathmandu(B).
Cost Includes
- Arrival and Departure (Airport) transfer by Private Car
- Twin/DBL Sharing Accommodations as per itinerary
- In Everest Base Camp Best available Guest House/Tented Camp
- Best Available Guest house in Lake Mansarovar and Dirapuk, Zutulpuk
- Meals: Breakfast as per itinerary
- 01 Dinner in Lhasa
- Local Sightseeing & City Tour as per itinerary
- All Ground transfer on Private Car as per itinerary
- Entrance and all applicable fees as per itinerary
- Local Experienced English speaking Guide in each destinations
- National Park, Conservation Heritage entrance fees
- Everest National Park Permits/ fees for Guide, Travelers, Vehicles
- All Customs clearance /border transfer and ground management
- All Require Travel Route Permit, Military Permit, Kailash Permit and other necessary documentations
- Tibet Travel Permit, Alien's Travel Permit. Chinese Visa Invitation letter if required
- Train Tickets in China
- Beijing to Xian Overnight Train ticket, Sleeper berth
- Xian to Xining Bullet Train ticket, second class seat
- Qinghai Tibet Railway Train ticket, second class sleeper.
- All domestic train will be included and manage by us in advance.
- Border to Kathmandu Transfer by 4WD Jeep
- Accommodation
Cost does not Include
- International flight to/from China and Nepal
- Nepal Visa Fess (Can be obtain upon arrival in border)
- Meals – Lunch & Dinner as mentioned above in itinerary
- Additional single supplement for requiring single room
- Personal expenses such as shopping, Gratitude for Guide/Crew and Driver
- Travel or Medical Insurance
- Any Cost occurred due to Flight delay/cancellation, weather issues and personal condition
Difficulty and Preparation
This tour is rather demanding because it takes us to relatively high regions, including Everest Base Camp and Mount Kailash. Tourists will face such conditions as thin air, low temperatures, and rather unsuitable climatic conditions.
It is essential not to fall sick because of the effects of high altitude, and the physical nature of the terrain does not make it any easier. Proper planning is crucial for the most exciting trip across some stunning places.
How To Be Prepared For The Tour?
Physical Preparation-
A good physique is needed to endure long drives, treks, and when the team is forced to be at high altitudes. Aerobic exercises and weight lifting build the endurance of the heart for trekking and hiking.
Mental Preparation-
Altitude, cultural differences, and remoteness are manageable when travelers have solid mental coping mechanisms. Accepting some crude facilities offered will go a long way in making the much-needed preparations in advance, so that one is not shocked by the simple features that have been put in place to facilitate the end user/visitor.
Weather Considerations
Seasons also fluctuate: the climate is cold in the highlands and relatively warm in the lowland valleys. Appropriate clothing includes wearing many layers of clothing because of the different weather conditions experienced in these areas.
Permits and Documentation
Several permits are needed for the areas where several licenses are required. Ensure all official documents, such as visas and other travel permits, are sorted way before the actual time to travel.
Cultural Awareness
Respecting the customs, culture, and beliefs of the community and the holy places is essential during this tour. Knowledge of Tibet, Nepal, and China's culture will help to improve your interaction with locals and make your travel a more enjoyable experience.
Best Time To Go For Tour
The Beijing - Xian - Lhasa- Kailash – EBC – Kathmandu tour is a true dream for those exploring the Tibetan and Nepalese attractions. Since this journey involves certain weather conditions, selecting the right season is essential for planning.
The recommended travel seasons are Spring and Autumn, but there are different attractions in each of the seasons. Below is a guide to give an insight into what to expect in every season.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is a time that calls for regeneration and a new beginning, and undoubtedly, spring is one of the best seasons for this tour.
Whether it is the ancient cities of Beijing and Xian or the spiritual cities of Lhasa and Kailash Mansarovar, Spring is the season to enjoy the floral beauty, pleasant climate, and clear blue skies.
The current weather in Beijing and Xian is moderate temperatures, between 10 °C and 20 °C, for sightseeing historical sites, including the Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors. With an increase in altitude up to Lhasa and beyond to Tibet, the snow melts and opens up the spectacular terrains therein.
The weather increases visibility to enable clear shots of Mount Everest at EBC and other high Himalayan ranges on the way to Kathmandu. Regarding accessibility, the routes are usually not blocked for pilgrims visiting Mount Kailash, and the climate is not too harsh.
Autumn [September to November]
Autumn is the second favorable season for the Beijing – Xian – Lhasa – Kailash – EBC – Kathmandu tour. This season provides fresh air, little precipitation, and stunningly blue skies, making this season some of the best vantage points on the route.
The temperatures in Beijing and Xian are between 15-25°C, ideal for visiting tourist attractions. The climate in Lhasa is arid, with moderate temperatures, mainly averaging 10 °C.
This is among the best months to visit Mount Kailash and EBC because the skies are often dry, and you will surely get a clear view of Everest.
By now, the monsoon rains have retreated to Nepal and Kathmandu. The valleys are green, and there is not enough rain to hamper your movement. During Autumn, the whole trip seems mostly colorful and beautiful due to the excellent autumnal colors.
Summer [June to August]
It is quite possible to travel during Summer, but specific problems should be considered, especially in the lower levels of the tour, like Nepal and a few Chinese provinces.
July and August are monsoon months in Nepal and parts of Tibet, and it rains a lot in Kathmandu, which is almost always cloudy around Mount Everest at that time of year.
Summer is also scorching hot; temperatures can go up to 30°C and more, and sightseeing becomes less enjoyable in Beijing and Xi’an.
Tibet is usually sunny and passable as a destination, but as you approach Mount Kailash and EBC, you will sometimes experience slight rain. The Kailash pilgrimage season is already at its peak.
Winter [December to February]
The winter season for the Beijing - Xian - Lhasa - Kailash - EBC - Kathmandu tour can be harsh. The lowest temperature can be unbearable, especially in Tibet and the Himalayan regions.
The temperatures are expected to drop to freezing in cities like Beijing and Xian, where cold winds cover the towns. Apart from the regions above, winters in Tibet are equally severe, with nighttime temperatures in Lhasa falling to around -10°C.
So far, so good. In winter, travel to Mount Kailash and EBC becomes practically impossible as numerous highways are shut due to excessive snow; accordingly, the weather will be well below 0 degrees.
A Typical Day During Beijing - Xian - Lhasa - Kailash- EBC - Kathmandu Tour
This Beijing-Xian-Lhasa-Kailash-EBC-Kathmandu tour itinerary proves a typical adventurous and cultural experience every day. An early breakfast sets you up for the rest of the day and a day of sightseeing.
Sightseeing during the morning includes the Great Wall of China in Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors in Xian, and the Potala Palace in Lhasa. Your guide guarantees you will interact with these sites' historical and cultural aspects.
While traveling from one city to another in China to the peaceful environment of the Tibetan plateau, you may be crossing rough terrains, going around temples and monasteries or gazing at the highest peaks in the world, including Mount Everest.
Small treks or pilgrimages to worship places like Mount Kailash are both walks and meditative. The variation of the environment from cities to mountains makes the trip diverse.
Night times are more accessible, and you can just let go. Whether eating in one of the local restaurants in Kathmandu or sipping tea in a guesthouse in the highlands of Tibet, it is time to think over the day.
People always meet each other while on a trip, creating unforgettable memories around the world.
Every day on this tour is a balance of attractions and culture and a time for personal contemplation. It is a balanced experience that offers you more than just an idea of China, Tibet's spiritual dimension, and the Nepalese people's friendliness.
The velocity is moderate but adventurous, therefore suitable for people who want a cultural experience and excitement.
Accommodation
Accommodation During Beijing - Xian - Lhasa - Kailash- EBC - Kathmandu Tour
The Beijing - Xian - Lhasa - Kailash - EBC - Kathmandu Tour offers comfortable accommodations but simultaneously tries to expose the tourists to the local ways of life. In Beijing and Xian, you will be accommodated in central 3-star and 4-star hotels close to the Forbidden City and Terracotta Warriors.
Lhasa has several excellent hotels where you can experience Tibetan architecture, but at the same time, all comforts and services are provided.
In your case, you will be situated near critical sites such as Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, where you will have a first-hand feel of Tibetan culture.
Staying in lodging and guest houses offering minimum services is a standard feature for tourists in remote areas like Mount Kailash and Everest Base Camp. They mainly sustain and adjust to travelers’ necessities in hurricane and high-altitude places.
Meals During The Tour
The food on the Beijing, Xian, Lhasa, Kailash, EBC, and Kathmandu Tour is specially arranged for food lovers to satisfy the food preferences of visitors with different diets in different countries.
In Beijing and Xian, visitors can also taste local and global food and learn about what the world’s best restaurants offer.
While progressing to Lhasa and the farther reaches of Kailash and the Everest Base Camp, meals are often plain and packed with calories to respond to the need to trek in high altitude.
Traditional breakfast foods like Tibetan bread, porridge, and eggs are usually significant. Meals in places like Kailash or Everest are likely to be rice, noodles, and stews, which the local people or porters typically prepare.
These meals are geared towards sustaining the power needed while performing physically straining activities during the tour.
Attractive viewpoints are usually encountered when having lunch, which is typically a simple yet fulfilling meal comprising noodles, dumplings, or any local curry.
People of Tibet also have a heavier meal in the evening, which includes rice, lentils, or yak meat, hot soup, and tea.
It is recommended that each participant carry personal food, such as an energy bar to supplement the meals provided in cases where a lot of trekking is involved.
Drinking Water During The Tour
Mineral bottled water is provided in your accommodation and in the vehicle for use during the tour. Any additional water requirements above that provided are at your own cost.
Locally, bottled water is readily available from supermarkets and local markets, especially in areas such as Beijing and Xi’an.
There may be a scarcity or differences in clean drinking water in far-flung places like Lhasa, Kailash, and EBC.
Here, it is wise to carry bottled water, but remember, being an eco-conscious traveler, carrying a refillable water bottle and disposing of it properly should be a high priority.
Similarly, it is advisable to have a portable water filter or purification tablets for safe drinking water in each part of the trip.
Communication and Internet Access
Most hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions, such as Beijing and Xian, now offer free Wi-Fi to let travelers message their loved ones or post on social media.
Yet, in areas like Kailash and the Everest Base Camp (EBC), the internet could be scarce or available only at a higher price in hotels and guesthouses.
Data availability in these areas is often limited. Therefore, it is advisable to expect instance connectivity.
Mobile data is more convenient throughout the journey, and local SIM cards are available at important places like Beijing and Lhasa.
The SIM cards provide good network coverage and reasonable tariffs for data that can be used for applications such as WeChat and WhatsApp.
Still, due to the limitations of the internet in China, platforms like Facebook and Instagram are unavailable. These sites can only be accessed through a VPN, and it is recommended that the VPN is downloaded to the device before arriving in China.
Electric Plugs and Chargers
Knowing about the electric plugs and chargers is essential to ensure that your electronic devices remain charged so you can take photos and capture every moment possible while on the tour.
China’s standards include Type A, C, and I, while Nepal has adopted chiefly C and D sockets. This variability means having a universal adapter on you is obligatory since it allows you to charge your devices quickly.
Also, the power outlets may not be easily accessible, especially in the rural areas in Lhasa and around the Everest Base Camp, as there may be charging stations. Therefore, a portable power bank is one of the most essential gadgets to help people stay powered up during travel.
Detail Itinerary
Day01: Beijing Arrival | Airport Pick-up and Hotel Check-in.
- Altitude:44m/144ft
- Duration:2 hrs
- Accommodation:Hotel
Day02: Beijing City Tour | Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Old Hutongs(B).
Day03: Beijing Great Wall Tour | Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird’s Nest & Water Cube(B).
Day04: Beijing to Xian by High-Speed Train | Summer Palace(B).
- Altitude:400m/1312ft
- Duration:3 /4 hr
- Accommodation:Hotel
Day05: Xian City Tour | Terracotta Warriors, Muslim Quarter(B).
Day06: Xian City Tour | Shaanxi History Museum, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda & Ancient City Wall(B).
Day07: Xian Board Train to Lhasa | Enjoy Train Journey(B).
- Altitude:4130m/13550ft
- Duration:40 hrs
- Accommodation:Train
Day08: Train Ride View Stunning Scenery of Qinghai-Tibet | Lhasa Arrival(B).
- Altitude:3650m/11975ft
- Duration:40 hrs
- Accommodation:Hotel
Day09: Lhasa City Tour | Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery, Barkhor Street(B).
Day10: Lhasa Culture Tour(B).
Day11: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse(B).
- Altitude:3900m/12467ft
- Duration:6 hrs
- Accommodation:Hotel
Day12: Shigatse - Mt. Everest | Gyawu La Pass, Rongbuk Monastery, Mt. Everest Base Camp(B).
- Altitude:5200m/17388ft
- Duration:7 hrs
- Accommodation:Tented Camp
Day13: EBC - Peiku Tso Lake - Saga(B).
- Altitude:4500m/14740ft
- Duration:6 hr
- Accommodation:Hotel
Day14: Saga - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen(B).
- Altitude:4575m/15010ft
- Duration:5 hrs
- Accommodation:Hotel
Day15: Darchen to Dirapuk(B).
- Altitude:5210m/17093ft
- Duration:5 hrs
- Accommodation:Hotel
Day16: Dirapuk to Zutulpuk(B).
- Altitude:4790m/15715ft
- Duration:6 hrs walk
- Accommodation:Hotel
Day17: Zutulpuk to Saga(B).
- Altitude:4640m/15223ft
- Duration:6 hrs
- Accommodation:Hotel
Day18: Saga to Gyirong(B).
- Altitude:2740m/9108ft
- Duration:5 hrs
- Accommodation:Hotel
Day19: Gyirong to Border and Transfer to Kathmandu(B).
- Altitude:1400m/4593ft
- Duration:9 hrs
- Accommodation:Hotel