Arrive in Lhasa by air or train. Your guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Rest and acclimatize to the high altitude of 3,650 meters. Stay hydrated and take it easy on your first day in Tibet.

Full day exploring the iconic landmarks of Lhasa. Visit the Potala Palace, the magnificent winter residence of the Dalai Lamas, and the Jokhang Temple, the holiest shrine in Tibet built in 647 AD. Walk the Barkhor kora circuit.

Visit Drepung Monastery, once the world's largest monastery with up to 10,000 monks, and Sera Monastery to witness the famous monks debating session. Take in the unique atmosphere of this remarkable place, where ancient traditions meet the majestic Himalayan landscape. Your guide will share insights into the local culture, history, and significance of each site, helping you connect more deeply with the Tibetan way of life. Remember to stay hydrated, move at a relaxed pace, and bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery and unique moments along the way.

Scenic drive south through the Karo La Pass at 5,010 meters with panoramic views of the snow-capped Nyenchen Tanglha mountain range. Stop at the stunning turquoise Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet's three holy lakes stretching 72 kilometers across the valley. Continue past the Karola Glacier to Gyantse to visit the magnificent Kumbum Stupa with its 108 chapels filled with exquisite murals. Arrive in Shigatse at 3,900 meters and check into your hotel.

Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse featuring the world's largest gilded statue of Maitreya Buddha at 26 meters tall. Drive south through dramatic mountain scenery to the Gawu La Pass at 5,200 meters for your first breathtaking views of Mount Everest north face. Continue to Rongbuk Monastery and Everest Base Camp for sunset. Overnight at EBC guesthouse.

Early morning sunrise over Mount Everest. After breakfast begin the westward journey toward Saga, a small Tibetan town serving as the gateway to western Tibet. The drive takes you through vast open landscapes with fewer settlements and more dramatic mountain scenery. Cross several high passes as you travel deeper into the remote Ngari region. Arrive in Saga in the evening.

Long drive west across the vast Ngari Plateau, one of the most remote and sparsely populated regions on Earth. The landscape is dominated by endless grasslands, turquoise lakes, and snow-capped peaks stretching to the horizon. You may spot Tibetan wild ass, gazelles, and the occasional nomadic herder's tent. Arrive in Ali city in the late afternoon.

Drive south toward the sacred Mount Kailash region. Arrive at Lake Manasarovar, the highest freshwater lake in the world at 4,590 meters and one of the most sacred lakes in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. The crystal-clear waters reflect the sacred peak of Mount Kailash in the distance. Take a ritual bath or simply absorb the powerful spiritual atmosphere of this holy place.

Today is the most spectacular day of the overland journey as you cross the Kunlun Mountains from Tibet into Xinjiang. The drive takes you through some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the world, with peaks reaching over 7,000 meters. Descend from the Tibetan Plateau into the Taklamakan Desert basin. Arrive in Kashgar, the ancient Silk Road city.

Explore the ancient Silk Road city of Kashgar. Visit the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in China, the lively Sunday Animal Market the largest livestock market in Central Asia, and the Old City with its winding alleyways and traditional Uighur architecture with carved wooden doors and balconies. Taste authentic Uighur cuisine including lamb kebabs and pilaf.

Fly from Kashgar to Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, across the Taklamakan Desert. Upon arrival, visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum to learn about the Silk Road history and see the famous Taklamakan mummies. In the evening explore the Grand Bazaar for handicrafts and local specialties.

Explore Urumqi's highlights including Red Hill Park for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Tianshan Mountains. Visit the Xinjiang Silk Road Museum for an excellent overview of the region's history. The evening is free to explore the bustling night markets with their colorful array of Xinjiang's famous fruits and street food.

After breakfast, transfer to Urumqi Diwopu International Airport for your departure flight. You have completed one of the most epic overland journeys in Asia, from the Roof of the World in Tibet to the ancient Silk Road cities of Xinjiang. Tashi Delek!