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Peregrine Travel Centre

Classic Tibet

Classic Tibet

From $ 5,670 AUD

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Description

Beginning in the compact capital of Kathmandu, embark on a fulfilling expedition to the mystical lands of Tibet. This 11-day journey will take you through the mountainous passes, past stunning lakes, and into spiritual communities enriched and enlightened by Buddhism. Take a day trip from Kathmandu to explore Nepal’s natural side, explore Tibet’s wondrous capital of Lhasa to be awed by the imposing Potala Palace, and venture high into the hills to Shigatse, notably for the Tashilhunpo Monastery. This peaceful small group trip has adventure written all over it.

Trip Name
Classic Tibet
Last Updated
2020-06-02
Days
11
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Flanked by the majestic Himalayan Mountains, Kathmandu is nothing short of a legendary destination. Its bustling alleyways are filled with monks, incense, goats and sacred cows, and its temples steeped in symbolism.
  • With knowledgeable local guides and others to look after the finer details, it has never been easier to make the journey into the far-fetched and mystical land of Tibet.
  • In Lhasa, discover the dazzling former home of the Dalai Lama and the enchanting atmosphere of the pilgrim-filled Jokhang Temple – the holiest in the Tibetan Buddhist world.
  • Each leg of a Tibetan road trip seems more incredible than the last. Climb stunning passes, drive along the sides of misty mountains, and take in jaw-dropping views of skies and shimmering lakes.
  • Accompany devoted pilgrims on their kora (prayer circuit), spinning prayer wheels on a clockwise walk around the perimeter of the vast Tashilhunpo Monastery.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES: Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It is important that you print and review a final copy prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in country. The order and timing of included activities in each location may also vary seasonally to ensure our travellers have the best experience. Your tour leader will keep you up to date with any changes once on tour. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES: A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and may be on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your leader know you are interested and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and leaders are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Kathmandu
Namaste! Welcome to Nepal. Your adventure begins with an important welcome meeting at 2 pm. This group meeting will be longer than your normal Intrepid meeting as there are a fair bit of paperwork to go through for the visa application, including a six-page form to fill out. Then, your group leader will take you to take the photos needed for the visa application (5 USD per person) to make sure all the photos submitted are in line with the embassy requirement. After all the formalities are out of the way, head out in the evening with your leader for a welcome dinner to try some delicious Nepalese cuisine.
Day 2 - Kathmandu
This morning, our local representative will take all the necessary documents to the Chinese embassy and submit them for the group visa application. In the meantime, you’ll need to be ready to be called into the embassy for any further enquiries about the group visa, so your tour leader will take you for short walks near the hotel in case an urgent embassy visit is required. It is, however, possible for you to take an optional visit to the nearby monkey temple. After 2pm when the embassy procedures are finished, your tour leader will take you on a walking tour (approximately 2.5 hours) to explore the excitement and allure hidden in the lanes and alleys of Kathmandu. Step out into the streets of Kathmandu, whose mixture of ancient architecture and modern development, and rich artistic and cultural heritage, means it remains the legendary destination it has been for decades. Crowded markets and bazaars are the centre of Nepali life and the narrow streets are home to holy men, monks, bicycles, incense, goats and sacred cows.
Day 3 - Bhaktapur - Changu Narayan - Kathmandu
Today, leave Kathmandu old town in the morning on a private bus to visit one of the Nepal’s most renowned ancient towns – Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur was one of the three royal cities in Kathmandu valley, and remains a living museum with stunning architecture and art, rich history and fascinating religion of Buddhism and Hinduism. Take a stroll with your leader through the zigzagging alleys and learn about the stories of the kings and the saints of the past, interact with locals and admire the intricate wood carvings and pottery making. Continue on to Changu Narayan – a hidden gem in Kathmandu’s religious scene, being one of the oldest Hindu temples in the region. Enjoy some time of tranquillity and nature here before heading back to the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu.
Day 4 - Lhasa (3656m)
Fly to Tibet's capital, Lhasa (approximately 2 hours). Colourful and historic, the holy city of Lhasa is situated in a small valley. Unknown to the outside world for years, even the most adventurous and hardy of explorers rarely reached the city without being turned away, either by the treacherous terrain or the fierce warrior monks that protected Tibetan territory from intruders. Nowadays it welcomes tourists, but remains an enchanting city, steeped in culture and mythology.
Day 5 - Lhasa
This morning, take it easy to adjust to the altitude. At noon, take a cooking class and learn the fine art of preparing momo – traditional Tibetan dumplings – for lunch. Though the dish appears in neighbouring countries Nepal and Bhutan, it’s believed to originate in Tibet. In the afternoon, you’ll visit Sera Monastery where the fascinating Buddhism debate takes place between the Tibetan monks. You won't understand a thing that they are debating about, but it's pure joy to see how they heatedly discuss the philosophies in quite an exaggerated way.
Day 6 - Lhasa
In the morning, visit the Potala Palace – the former home of the Dalai Lama that’s perched 130 metres above the city. The palace is divided into two parts, the White Palace (secular and used as offices and the like) and the Red Palace (home to chapels, shrines, and tombs of Dalai Lamas). This incredible structure is a feat of architecture for this small kingdom. Afterwards, visit Jokhang Temple, considered the spiritual heart and most sacred temple of Tibet. It always attracts a steady wave of pilgrims. Spend some time exploring this six-acre World-Heritage listed site and learn a thing or two about its history. According to legend, the temple was built on top of a lake after many failed attempts to build monasteries in other nearby locations. Feast your eyes on golden Buddha which stands in the centre. If you still feel energetic enough, perhaps join the pilgrims walk around the Barkhor street or around the Potala Palace, both of which are considered sacred koras by the Tibetan Buddhists.
Day 7 - Shigatse (3890m)
Leave Lhasa in the morning and take a private transfer to Shigatse (approximately 6 hours). Though it's a long day of driving, the scenery along the way is spectacular, so sit back, relax and enjoy it. There will be stops for lunch and to take in the stunning mountainous scenery. Shigatse is home to the massive Tashilhunpo Monastery, traditionally the seat of the Panchen Lama. On arrival in the afternoon, your group leader will take you on a short walking tour and visit the local market which has all kinds of Tibetan souvenirs to offer. The Shigatse Tibetan market is also an ideal opportunity to purchase a chuba – a traditional Tibetan-style cloak.
Day 8 - Shigatse
This morning, visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery, where your leader will take you on a tour through the buildings, each with their own intricate decorations, legends and religious imagery. If you’d like, you can 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. Be welcomed to our hospitable Tibetan family in town and learn all about their life and tradition in this special part of the world over some yak butter tea and Tibetan style snacks. In the evening, join the pilgrims on their kora by spinning prayer wheels as you walk around the perimeter of the monastery and take in the lovely views and atmosphere.
Day 9 - Lhasa
Journey back to Lhasa (approximately 6 hours). Grasp your last bit of time in this scared city for some more shopping, or just to do some people watching, which is fascinating due to the public displays of devotion and spirituality from the locals. You could also head to Barkhor street for local souvenirs. This evening, why not find a restaurant with a view of the illuminated Potala Palace for dinner with your fellow travellers – your group leader will know of some good spots.
Day 10 - Kathmandu
This morning, say goodbye to your Tibetan leader and take a flight back to Kathmandu (approximately 1.5 hours). Your Nepal leader will greet you at the airport and get ready to dive back in the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu again. Maybe enjoy a final dinner with your group together – boasting a delicious array of international and local cuisine, Kathmandu is lovely place to dine, especially with your small group.
Day 11 - Kathmandu
There are no activities planned today, and you are free to depart the hotel at any time before the 12 noon check out. If you are departing later, luggage storage can be arranged at the hotel.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
05-09-202115-09-2021AUD $ 5,670-

Accommodation

Hotel (10 nights)

Transport

Plane,Private Bus,Public Bus

Map

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