10 Insider Tips for Tibet Nepal Combined Tours in 2026

Nepal is very accessible, and most travelers can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at major land borders. For an even smoother entry, you can apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization before your trip. The process for entering Tibet, however, requires planning. If your journey starts in mainland China and goes to Tibet, you'll need a standard Chinese Visa and a Tibet Travel Permit. The key difference is for travelers entering Tibet from Nepal. In this case, you cannot use a regular Chinese visa. Instead, you must obtain a China Group Visa. This is a special document issued only to groups, and applications must be submitted by a registered travel agency like ours in Kathmandu. We handle this entire process, liaising with the embassy and ensuring your paperwork is perfect.

Choose Your Direction: The Classic Overland Route

The most rewarding way to connect these two lands is by road like the epic overland journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu or vice versa. A popular and well-paced itinerary is the 7-day journey that takes you from the spiritual heart of Tibet to the cultural buzz of Nepal. This route lets you acclimatize gently, starting in Lhasa with visits to the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, before winding through stunning landscapes like the turquoise Yamdrok Lake and towards the majestic Mount Everest.

The Everest Decision: North Face vs. South Face

A major highlight is, of course, witnessing Mount Everest. While Nepal offers famous trekking routes to the South Base Camp, the Tibetan side provides a uniquely grand perspective. The north face view from Tibet Everest Base Camp is often considered more complete and unobstructed. The good news is that you don't need to be a hardcore trekker to reach it. On the classic overland tour, comfortable vehicles bring you right to the base camp area, where you can spend a night under the stars, a truly unforgettable experience.

Time It Perfectly: The Best Windows for Travel

For the best overall conditions, aim for the shoulder seasons. The months of April to early June and September to October typically offer stable weather, clear mountain views, and pleasant temperatures in both regions. These windows avoid the heavy summer monsoon rains in Nepal and the harsh winter cold on the Tibetan plateau.

Pack Smart for Nepal and Tibet Combined Tours

Packing for this trip is all about layers. You'll experience the dry, high-altitude climate of the Tibetan Plateau and the potentially warmer, more humid valleys of Nepal. Essentials include a warm jacket, a hat, sunglasses, strong sunscreen, and sturdy, comfortable shoes. Remember, the sun at high altitude is intense. Also, keep your passport, permits, and some local currency easily accessible, especially on travel days.

Embrace the Cultural Tapestry

The cultural shift from Tibet to Nepal is profound and captivating. In Tibet, you'll be immersed in Tibetan Buddhism. You'll see pilgrims circling sacred temples, spinning prayer wheels, and feel the deep spirituality in monasteries. Crossing into Nepal, you enter a vibrant mosaic where Hinduism and Buddhism intertwine. The air fills with the scent of incense from street-side shrines, and the architecture tells stories of ancient kingdoms. It's this incredible contrast that makes visiting both places so enriching.

Travel with Respect and Awareness

Being a mindful traveler goes a long way. Always ask permission before photographing people, especially monks and locals. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. In Nepal, be mindful of local customs, such as not touching offerings or pointing your feet at sacred objects. A little respect opens doors to warmer interactions and more meaningful experiences.

Navigate Logistics Smoothly

While independent travel in Nepal is very common, travel in Tibet for foreign visitors requires arranging a guided tour with a registered agency for permit purposes. This actually simplifies your cross-border journey immensely. We take care of all transport, permits, and expert local guides in Tibet. For the Nepal leg, we can arrange seamless connections or you're free to explore independently—we're here to tailor the perfect blend of structure and freedom for you.

Conclusion

Ready to turn your 2026 Himalayan dream into a detailed plan? Reach out to us!