Embark on an unforgettable 14-day journey to the roof of the world, beginning with the scenic Tibet Train to Lhasa--the highest railroad in the world. Glide across the Tibetan plateau, witnessing endless expanses of snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and vast grasslands from the comfort of your train carriage. Upon arrival in Lhasa, immerse yourself in the heart of Tibetan culture with visits to iconic sites such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and vibrant local markets, while savoring the unique flavors of Tibetan-Buddhist cuisine.
From Lhasa, traverse the dramatic landscapes of Tibet en route to Everest, passing through Gyantse and Shigatse, with opportunities to marvel at the mighty peaks and encounter traditional Tibetan villages along the way. Stand in awe at the base of the world’s tallest mountain, capturing the pristine glaciers and towering Himalayan vistas that define this legendary region. After this transformative journey, cross into Nepal and conclude your expedition in Kathmandu, where ancient temples, bustling markets, and rich history await. This 14-day expedition offers a rare combination of witnessing the world's most famous mountain, immersion in two different countries connected by a shared regional culture, and of course the incomparable scenic splendor of the high Himalayas.
1. Disclaimer
By participating in this trip, all travelers acknowledge and accept that adventure travel involves inherent risks, including but not limited to:
Vehicular transportation, hiking, and travel in remote areas
Variable weather conditions, rough terrain, and wildlife encounters
Limited access to medical facilities in some locations
Travel delays, vehicle breakdowns, or changes to the itinerary due to local conditions
Participants agree that the organizers, travel agents, and associated service providers are not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage to personal property, health, or life arising from participation in this trip.
2. Liability Waiver
By paying the deposit, the participant voluntarily assumes all risks associated with the trip. Participants certify that they are physically fit for all planned activities and have obtained any necessary medical advice.
Participants release and discharge the organizers, their employees, agents, and partners from any liability for injury, illness, death, loss, or damage to personal property whatsoever incurred during the trip, except in cases of proven gross negligence or willful misconduct by the organizers.
3. Cancellation and Refund Policy
Deposit: Non-refundable under any circumstances.
Final Payment: Non-refundable after February 28, 2027.
Any cancellations made before February 28, 2027 will forfeit the deposit; a refund of remaining payments will be made at the organizers discretion.
If the trip is canceled by the organizers due to emergency circumstances (e.g., political unrest, natural disasters, pandemics, death, etc.), participants will receive a 50% refund minus the deposit and any non-refundable third-party costs (e.g., permits).
If the trip is canceled by the organizers due to insufficient sign-ups (as determined by Expedition Ahimsa LLC) participants will receive a full refund.
4. Travel Insurance
All participants are strongly advised to obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, loss, or delay.
5. Acknowledgment
By submitting any payment and/or participating in the trip, the traveler acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to this Disclaimer, Liability Waiver, and Cancellation Policy.
A local guide at all times
Including bus and train transportation from start to finish
In 3 and 4 star hotels wherever possible for all 14 days. Some of the places on our itinerary are very small and lodging in those locations will be rustic but safe and warm.
All included meals will be vegetarian with vegan and gluten free options available upon request. Any other meals and snacks are paid for by the client.
All entrance fees or permit within Tibet & Nepal (included in the itinerary) will be paid for.
1.5 liters of safe filtered/bottled drinking water per day per person
You must arrange and pay for your own international flights.
Please purchase your own travel insurance
You will need a visa to China, please apply well in advance of the trip.
Telephone calls, bar bills, room service, laundry service, etc. are not included.
Consumption of alcohol is strongly discouraged on this trip
We highly encourage participants to tip our guides and the servers at the restaurants and hotels we visit
We can advise how much cash to bring for personal expenses and shopping during our orientation call.
Arrive in Xining, Qinghai province.
Free day to gather, rest, and acclimatize.
Overnight stay in Xining.
Board the Qinghai–Tibet Railway (20–21 hours).
Cross Tanggula Pass, the highest point of the railway.
Enjoy dramatic landscapes: snow-capped mountains, lakes, and grasslands.
Overnight on the train in your soft sleeper berth.
Arrive in Lhasa at midday, transfer to hotel.
Rest completely to acclimatize to high altitude.
Optional gentle evening walk in Barkhor Square.
Overnight in Lhasa.
Visit Jokhang Temple, the spiritual center of Tibet.
Walk the Barkhor kora and explore old city streets.
Afternoon free for rest or light exploration.
Overnight in Lhasa.
Morning visit to Potala Palace.
Afternoon visit to Drepung Monastery or Tibet Museum
Overnight in Lhasa.
Drive via Kamba La Pass (4,794 m) to Yamdrok Tso (turquoise lake) on a bus.
Cross Karo La Glacier Pass (5,036 m).
Visit Kumbum Stupa and Pholkor Monastery in Gyantse.
Overnight in Gyantse.
Short scenic drive (~2 hours).
Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery.
Explore local markets or rest.
Overnight in Shigatse.
Drive west across high passes, including Gyatso La (5,200 m).
Marvel at sweeping plateau landscapes and distant peaks.
Overnight in Shegar.
Visit Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest monastery.
Views of Mount Everest and surrounding glaciers.
Overnight at Rongbuk guesthouse.
Early morning Everest views from Rongbuk.
Drive through high passes and valleys into the Kyirong region near the Nepal border. (9.5 hours)
Scenic landscapes all along the route.
Overnight in Kerung / Kyirong.
Clear immigration at Kerung (China) and Rasuwagadhi (Nepal).
Drive through the scenic Langtang region to Kathmandu.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Visit the monkey temple & Boudhanath stupa in Kathmandu
Optional Rest day after high-altitude journey.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Explore Nepal's old capital Bhaktapur.
Visit local markets, ancient temples, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Transfer to Kathmandu airport as per flight schedule.
