Central Tibet Tour -10 Days

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

Upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Marron Treks will receive and transfer you to your designated hotel. After you are greeted with welcome drinks at the hotel, we will have a quick pre-trip meeting to discuss on the necessary formalities and the trip itinerary. You can then check in to your room, freshen up and rest. Or, if you are not one of those “lay back” types, you can take a stroll around the vicinity of your hotel and get the feel of this hyperactive capital city of Nepal. On the streets, people seem to be on sheer rush, barely noticing one another, but if you utter “Namaste”, they will definitely reciprocate with a smile! Well, that’s Nepal’s Nepalese for you. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.
 

Day 02: Kathmandu city sightseeing (1400m)

After a refreshing breakfast at the hotel, we will introduce you to our amiable and experienced city guide. Hop in to our private vehicle and head on for a drive piercing the heart of the Kathmandu valley. You will be visiting the most renowned historical and cultural landmarks of Kathmandu like- Pasupatinath Temple (the most revered Hindu shrine), Boudhanath (the greatest Stupa) and Kathmandu Durbar Square (the monumental city). All these sites are included in the UNESCO world heritage list. This informative and enticing tour wraps up by late noon. You will then be driven back to your hotel. Hope the tour lived up to your expectations! Since there is some time remaining, you can proceed to Thamel for shopping the tour goodies. Our staff can help you identify the genuine stores. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.

 

Day 03: Flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa (3650m/1hr)

Post breakfast at the hotel, you will be escorted to the Tribhuwan International Airport for a flight to Lhasa. After about 60 minutes on board, we land at the Gonggar Airport in Lhasa. It is quite natural to feel a little uneasy, because we have almost rocketed up to a staggering 3650m from a meager 1400m. We drive to our hotel in Lhasa. It is advisable to rest and take plenty of fluids, just to make sure that we do not get struck by altitude sickness. Overnight at hotel in Lhasa; breakfast included.

Note: There is no fixed program arranged for today. Kindly also be informed that the arrival in Lhasa does not necessarily have to be from Kathmandu and can be arranged from anywhere as per your convenience. So, you can either join a trip from Kathmandu or fly directly to Lhasa from the Chinese province of Chengdu, Beijing, Shangai and Xian

Day 04: First sightseeing day in Lhasa

After breakfast, you will be briefed on the day's program. An experienced Tibetan guide will take you on a tour to some of the major attractions of Lhasa like- the Sera Monastery, Norbulingka and the Barkhor Square. At the famous Sera Monastery, you get an insight into the important snippets pertaining to the Tibetan Buddhism. The Norbulingka Palace used to be the summer retreat of the Dalai Lama.  Built in the year 1956, this flamboyant building is ornately decorated with unique Tibetan carvings and paintings.
Jokhang Temple is an epitome of the rich Tibetan cultural heritage. We pay a visit to the temple and observe the pilgrims circumambulating the premises. A visit to the "Barkhor Square" is also on the cards. This busy juncture happens to be the heart of Lhasa and is dotted with plenty of souvenir stores. After this unprecedented insight into the famad Tibetan landmarks, you will be driven back to your hotel. Overnight at hotel in Lhasa; breakfast included.



Day 05: Second sightseeing day  in Lhasa

This second sightseeing day in Lhasa is dedicated to the majestic Potala Palace. In the accompaniment of a local Tibetan guide, you will be driven to this famed landmark of Tibet. The imposing and equally artistic structure of the palace iconizes the landscape of Lhasa. As you are guided through the ancient chambers of the palace, you get to witness the Tibetan art at its best. The Potala Palace is embellished with an array of intricate Tibetan murals and beautiful sculptures. Besides, you also get the opportunity to visit the tombs of the eight deceased Dalai Lamas. Later in the day, we head on to explore the Drepung Monastery, where we can observe the nuns and monks chanting mantras and performing religious discourses. This wraps up our second sightseeing day in Lhasa. You will then be driven back to your hotel. Overnight at hotel in Lhasa; breakfast included.
 
Note: Since only a limited number of visitors are allowed to visit the Potala Palace every day, the order of sightseeing places will be decided by the accompanying guide.



Day 06: Drive from Lhasa to Tsedang (or Tsetang) (3550m/2 hrs); explore the Nyethang Drolma Lhakhang & Mindroling Monastery en route

The day's tour kicks off with an absolutely scenic drive alongside the Yarlung Tsangpo River. We pass by the barley and wheat fields. En route, we stop at Nyethang and visit a famed temple here, known as the "Netang Drolma Lhakhang". Built in the 10th century by an Indian Buddhist named "Atisa", the temple is a unique artefact and holds significant importance in Tibetan Buddhism.
Another stop before reaching Tsedang is the "Mindrolling Monastery". It was also built in the 10th century and is renowned for its contribution towards astronomy, astrology, medicine and calligraphy. The murals on the wall, depicting the typical tantric arts are highly revered by the Buddhists.
Thus, after 2 hours on the wheels and some good explorations en route, we finally arrive at Tsedang, also known as Tsetang, the third largest city of Tibet. Overnight at hotel in Tsedang; breakfast included.



Day 07: Drive from Tsedang to Yarlung Valley (3670m/30min); explore the Tandruk Monastery, Yambu Lhakhang & Syame Monastery

We take a short 30 minutes' drive to the Yarlung Valley. The day is dedicated for the exploration of this wonderful ancient valley. Also known as the "Valley of Tombs", Yarlung believed to the the origin of the Tibetan civilization. One can witness a plethora of massive burial mounds of the late Tibetan kings. The highlights of the day are Tandruk Monastery, Yambu Lhakhang and Syame Monastery. 


Tandruk Monastery:  A 7th century monastery, which showcases a fantastic wood carved altar, interesting relics and murals.

 

Yambu Lhakhang: A castle perched dramatically on a pinnacle above the valley is the oldest known abode in Tibet, reputedly the home of the former Yarlung Kings. From atop, one can witness an awesome ambience of the Yarlung valley.

Syame Monastery: This artistic monastery was modeled in the "University of Otantapuri" in India. Encapsulating a plethoric range of temples and pagodas, the monastery premises is reckoned as the representation of the universe. To get to the monastery, we need to take a quick boat ride towards the west along the Yarlung Tsangpo River. The monastery is amidst a village surrounded by the contrasting frontiers of the verdant valley walls and barren looking mountains. Overnight at hotel in Yarlung; breakfast included.

Day 08: Drive from Yarlung Valley to Lhasa (3650m/2 hrs) and flight from Lhasa to Kathmandu (1400m/1hr)

Like all good things come to an end, our Tibet tour eventually wraps up as we drive back to Lhasa airport and take a return flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival at Kathmandu, you will be received by a representative from Marron Treks and transferred to your designated hotel. The remaining time is on your own. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.





Day 09: Free/optional day in Kathmandu

Kathmandu and Lhasa are very much in contrast in terms of the altitude and landscapes. So, it is always good to have an extra day after returning from such a high elevation. This flamboyant capital of Nepal has a lot to offer you, so an extra day here isn't actually extra at all. You can indulge yourself in shopping or strolling around some of the cultural and historical landmarks of Kathmandu. Thamel is your hot spot for shopping where you can haul all the souvenirs representing Nepal and its culture. May be that in addition to your interesting trip anecdotes, you would also want to take back some mementos for your friends and relatives back home.
In the evening, Marron Treks will host a farewell dinner program; a full-fledged Nepali fiesta, featuring a range of traditional Nepali cuisines coupled with a live cultural show. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast and dinner included.



Day 10: Final departure

A representative from Marron Treks will escort you to the Tribhuwan International Airport, three hours prior to your flight schedule. Goodbyes are not forever, goodbyes are not the end, they just mean we will miss you, till we meet again! Have a safe flight back home and we look forward to being your travel companion in Nepal again!
Trips can always be extended. You can try out some of our other exciting packages like  Bungy Jumping, Mountain Biking, Jungle Safari, White Water Rafting, Golfing & Paragliding etc. Please let us know about your desire for trip extension so that we can make the necessary arrangements.

  Important  Snippets  

The itinerary prescribed above is the standard template of the trip plan offered by Marron Treks which can be readily customized to match the guests’ preferences. However, the guests are expected to understand that the execution of the trip plan might be circumvented by an array of uncontrollable factors like bad weather, political turmoil, strikes, blockades and other unforeseen contingencies. Under such abnormal circumstances, the trip plans might undergo slight or sharp alterations, taking into consideration the best interest of the clients. Wherever the changes are made, Marron Treks cannot be held responsible for the consequences. Nevertheless, we shall endeavor our level best to make sure that the trip is carried out with respect to the original trip specifics.

For some reason (illness, high altitude sickness or any other personal reason), if the guests need to abandon the trip and return early, they are still liable to pay all the relevant trip expenses in full (like group visa charges, accommodation, transportation etc.), including the medical expenses incurred en route. There shall not be any refund or cost adjustment, because the Chinese Government does not have any refund policy for the trips that are booked.

Accommodation

During Central Tibet Tour we opt you accommodate in 3 star or 5 star hotels like Hotel Royal Singhi (3 star),  Hotel Manaslu (3 star), Radisson (5 star), Yak & Yeti (5 star) or similar in Kathmandu City.

While you are in Tibet, we arrange 3-4 star Standard Hotel to the local budget hotels as per your requirement. But when we arrive in town like Tsedang, etc. there are 2-3 star hotel charging US$ 45 to 65 per night for double room.If you wish to skip these hotels there are no other choices but to stay in local budget guest house, local lodges etc which you may not find as to your expectation.

Meals

We ensure that the food served during the trek is healthy. Generally, we opt for fresh local community food of Tibet such as Tsampa(staple food of Tibet), Buttered tea, Meat and other Tibetian food. This gives you a real sense of the culture and life patterns of the local people, simultaneously providing you the opportunity to boost the sales of the local products. Other than that a wide range of Continental, Chinese, Italian and Indian cuisine like Pizza, Spaghetti, French Fries, Soups, Breads etc are also available for your retreat.

Best Months

April to November is considered to be the best months for Central Tibet tour.

Our Guides

Guides play the most significant role in trekking. Marron Treks has literate, experienced and helpful trekking guides who are multilingual speakers and are very well versed to the culture, language, location and every single detail pertaining to Tibet. Hence your trek becomes informative as well as entertaining.

Travel Insurance

It is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure that your insurance covers you for both medical as well as evacuation costs. Having a travel insurance with you makes you trip safe and hassle free.

To Enter Tibet

There are two common routes for entering Tibet. They are as follows:

1. Kathmandu to Lhasa by flight

2. Kathmandu to Kodari by road.

Obtaining Visa

It is mandatory for all the foreigners to have a valid Chinese visa along with the three different permits viz. Tibet Tourism Bereau (TTB) Permit, Alien’s Travel Permit which is issued by the Police Security Bereau(PSB) , and the Military Permit. These permits give you hassle free access to the unopened areas of Tibet. We do not want you to get into the rigmaroles of obtaining these all by yourself. So, after the confirmation of your tour, you need to send us your passport details (Name, Date of Birth, Sex, Nationality, Passport Number and Occupation). We will commence the documentation for your visa and permits processing instantly. Upon your arrival to Nepal, you will be granted the visa as well as the permits.

For more queries, Visit our  FAQ section or contact us directly at   marketing@marrontreks.com

Starting Price: USD XXXX (On request) on twin sharing accommodation basis.

For other special requirements or bigger group deals, kindly mail us directly at: marketing@marrontreks.com

 Cost Includes

• Airport pick up and drop services in Kathmandu & Lhasa by private transportation.
• Guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu city.
• All ground transportation in Nepal and Tibet with respect to the itinerary.
• Hotel accommodation in Nepal and Tibet on "BB" basis as depicted in the itinerary.
• Tibet visa fee $ 150.00 for US Citizens and $130.00 for other nationals.
• Kathmandu-Lhasa-Kathmandu round trip airfare (one way -$ 420.00 and round trip -$ 771.00) *subject to change.
• Entrance and monumental fees during the sightseeing in Nepal & Tibet as prescribed in the itinerary.
• All applicable tourist fees, conservation fees & local permit fees necessary for tour.
• Company’s t-shirt, cap and a day pack (provided as complimentary gears).
• Remuneration to the English speaking city guide for sightseeing in Kathmandu and Tibet.
• Remuneration to the accompanying guide throughout the trip.
• A comprehensive medical kit (will be carried by the guide).
• Personal insurance for crew members.
• All government and local taxes.
• Farewell dinner with live Nepalese cultural program.
   

Cost Excludes

• International airfare (Kathmandu to home country) and departure taxes.
• Personal travel insurance.
• Emergency rescue evacuation (to be covered by the client's travel insurance).
• Nepal entry visa fee – Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 15 days costs US $ 25 or equivalent foreign currency, Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 30 days and 90 days costs US $40 and $ 100 respectively. You will need a valid passport and 2 copies of your recent PP sized photos).
• Personal insurance and other expenses of personal nature (phone calls, laundry, bottled water etc.).
• Bar bills, alcoholic drinks & beverages.
• Lunch and dinner expenses.
• Personal clothing and equipments.
• Tip for tour guides, driver, hotel lobby staff and waiters. (Tipping is expected but not mandatory).
• Cost incurred due to the addition of extra days or change in the real course of the itinerary because of bad weather conditions, political turmoil or any other unforeseen contingencies.
• Other expenses not mentioned in the “Cost Includes” section above.

Departure Date

Unfortunately, we do not have fixed departure dates for this package. Please let us know your preferred travel schedule. We shall endeavor our best to make sure that the trip is organized in tandem with your suitable time frame.