Kathmandu to Lhasa Himalaya Odyssey

Welcome to Nepal. As soon as you arrive at the airport of Kathmandu, our representative will meet you and escort you to the hotel. After check-in and a brief about the following tour arrangement, the rest of the day is for your own nearby exploration or relaxation at the hotel to recover from the jet lag.

Begin your extraordinary day with an early morning pickup for the once-in-a-lifetime Everest Mountain Flight Experience, departing at 06:00 am for a breathtaking 1.5-hour aerial journey over the world's highest peaks. Witness the majestic Mount Everest (8,848m), Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho Oyu, and the entire Himalayan range from your aircraft window, with guaranteed window seats and flight certificates. After returning to Kathmandu, embark on a spiritual and cultural exploration of Nepal's most sacred sites. Visit Pashupatinath Temple, the holiest Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, where you'll witness ancient cremation rituals along the sacred Bagmati River and observe pilgrims from across the subcontinent. Continue to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the world's largest Buddhist stupas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Tibetan refugees and monks perform their daily circumambulation rituals around this 36-meter-high mandala-shaped monument. Conclude at Kathmandu Durbar Square, the historic royal palace complex showcasing medieval Newar architecture, ancient temples, courtyards, and the living goddess Kumari's residence.

Embark on a captivating journey from Kathmandu to explore Nepal's best-preserved medieval city and premier Himalayan viewpoint. Begin with a scenic 40-minute drive to Bhaktapur, the "City of Devotees," a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the capital of the Greater Malla Kingdom until the 15th century. Discover the architectural masterpieces including the magnificent Golden Gate (Sun Dhoka), an ornate gilded entrance showcasing intricate metalwork and religious motifs; the Palace of 55 Windows, a masterpiece of woodcarving featuring 55 intricately carved windows from the 15th century; Taleju Temple, a three-story pagoda dedicated to the royal goddess; Dattatreya Square, home to the oldest temple in Bhaktapur with exquisite wood and stone carvings; and Pottery Square, where traditional potters continue their ancient craft using techniques passed down through generations. After exploring Bhaktapur's timeless streets, continue with a 30-minute drive to Nagarkot (2,175m), renowned as one of Nepal's finest Himalayan viewpoints offering panoramic views of the Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, and Langtang ranges.

Begin your day with a spectacular sunrise experience at Nagarkot Tower, the premier observation point offering 360-degree panoramic views of the Himalayan range including Mount Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang peaks. From this elevated vantage point at 2,175 meters, witness the golden sunrise illuminating the snow-capped mountains in a breathtaking display of natural beauty. Continue your journey to Changu Narayan Temple, one of Nepal's oldest Hindu temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and dating back to the 4th century. This ancient temple showcases the finest examples of Licchavi period stone sculptures, intricate wood carvings, and traditional pagoda architecture, surrounded by a traditional Newari village that has preserved its medieval charm. The temple complex features the oldest stone inscription in Nepal (dating 464 AD) and houses remarkable artifacts including the famous statue of Garuda, Vishnu's mount. Conclude your cultural exploration with a scenic 1-hour drive back to Kathmandu, passing through terraced hillsides, traditional villages, and enjoying the changing landscapes from mountains to valley.

Enjoy some leisure time before our representative picks you up and takes you to the airport for your flight back home.

Today you will fly to Lhasa. On arrival, your private guide will be ready to welcome you at the arrival hall, and transfer to your hotel with a private car and driver. Your guide will help you with luggage and hotel check-in, and ensure your arrival is worry-free.

Begin your day by stepping into the majestic realm of the Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural marvel that crowns the Lhasa skyline. Marvel at the intricate artwork, sacred relics, and panoramic views from the highest ancient palace in the world, as you delve into the centuries-old history of Tibetan Buddhism and the Dalai Lama.

Next, venture to the revered Jokhang Temple, a spiritual sanctuary that stands as the holiest site in Tibetan Buddhism. Admire the ornate Tibetan architecture adorned with vibrant murals, prayer wheels, and devout pilgrims, as you soak in the atmosphere of reverence and devotion that permeates this sacred space.

Continue your journey through the bustling lanes of Barkhor Street, a vibrant marketplace and pilgrimage circuit that pulses with the energy of Lhasa's cultural heritage. Lose yourself in the maze of traditional Tibetan homes, souvenir shops, and lively street vendors, as you encounter the authentic flavors, sights, and sounds of local life.

Begin your day by delving into the ancient halls and sprawling courtyards of Drepung Monastery, once the largest and most influential monastic institution in Tibet.  Nestled amidst the scenic backdrop of the Lhasa Valley, this iconic landmark echoes with the chants of monks and the whispers of centuries-old wisdom.  Explore the labyrinthine corridors adorned with intricate murals, visit the sacred assembly halls, and witness the daily rituals of prayer and contemplation that perpetuate the spiritual legacy of this revered site.

Next, journey to the tranquil environs of Sera Monastery, renowned for its unique blend of scholarly pursuits and religious devotion.  Marvel at the distinctive architecture of the monastery's buildings, adorned with ornate carvings and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.  Experience the renowned Sera Debate, where monks engage in spirited philosophical discussions, showcasing the intellectual vitality and depth of Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

Embark on a private journey to the breathtaking Yamdrok Lake, starting with a 8:00 AM pickup from your Lhasa hotel. The drive to Yamdrok Lake takes approximately 2+ hours, depending on road conditions, offering stunning views of Tibet’s rugged mountains and valleys along the way. Upon arrival, marvel at the serene turquoise waters of one of Tibet's most sacred lakes, surrounded by awe-inspiring natural beauty. If the weather permits, enjoy a peaceful lakeside picnic, creating a truly unforgettable moment in this tranquil setting.

Enjoy your free time until your guide come and escort you to airport for your onward flight.