High Road to Tibet

There are no planned activities for today except for a welcome meeting in the early evening, followed by an optional dinner.

Take an orientation walk in Durbar Square before visiting the Sisterhood of Survivors Project, a grassroots organization that trains survivors of human-trafficking and at-risk women to become certified paralegals. Meet some beneficiaries of the program and learn how to make Nepalese momos (dumplings) with some of the women before enjoying an authentic local lunch. In the evening, enjoy free time to explore the fascinating city.

• Many families in Panauti Village have come together to establish a homestay program.
• Depending on the location, the home offers lovely views across surrounding fields or a post from which to observe street activity. As well as getting to know a local family and exploring this lovely village, you will assist with preparing your evening meal - learning how to cook local dishes - and eat together with your host family.

Take an afternoon flight to Lhasa. With a relaxed pace to allow for the effects of altitude, explore this fantastic city on 'the roof of the world' over three days. Don't miss one of the evening debating sessions with the monks and the opportunity to learn more about the unique culture here.

Enjoy an orientation walk around Barkhor Square led by your CEO before taking a guided tour of the Jokhang Temple, the "spiritual heart" of the city where a stream of pilgrims visit daily. In the afternoon explore Sera Monastery and witness the monks debating.

Explore the grounds of the magnificent Potala Palace. Set upon Marpo Ri (Red Hill), the impressive 17th century structure was where the Dalai Lamas would meditate and take residence during the winter months. This afternoon, visit the Dalai Lama's Summer Palace, Norbulingka. Stroll the palace grounds and depending on the time of year, enjoy the outdoor festivities held in the park.

Enjoy a free day in Lhasa. Opt to visit the local markets or find a teahouse to spend a few hours relaxing with a warm cup of chai.

Set off early this morning for Gyantse, enjoying a visit to the ancient Buddhist site of Gyantse Kumbum on arrival. The drive to Gyantse is a spectacular one, crossing three passes over 5,000m (16,404 ft) and skirting the shores of the beautiful turquoise lake, Yamdrok Tso.

Today provides another opportunity to visit a sacred Tibetan Buddhist site in Gyantse. Visit Pelkor Chode Monastery this morning to admire the many sculptures and paintings lining the walls. Later, travel to Shigatse and enjoy some free time to get acquainted with the city.

Travel from Shigatse to Tingri and visit the Sakya Monastery. The monastery is one of the oldest in Tibet and home to thousands of ancient Buddhist scriptures and many paintings. Gain a fascinating insight into Tibetan history and enjoy the views from this hillside structure.

Rongbuk is the highest monastery in the world and its guesthouse offers very basic accommodation, but the views that surround it more than compensate. Lie in bed and watch the moonlight illuminate the mountain.

On today's drive, ride alongside Paiko Tso Lake and marvel at its turquoise colour. Reach Kunda La Pass at 5236m, which offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Start the descent through winding roads into Kyirong and feel the change in altitude. See the change in scenery from snowy mountain peaks, to more greenery and blue skies.

Prepare for another beautiful driving day on your way to Nepal. Cross high mountain passes amongst fluttering prayer flags, enjoy jaw dropping views of the Himalayan range, stunning lakes and forest, then begin to descend in altitude towards lush, green Nepal. After immigration, cross the bridge joining Tibet and Nepal by foot. Jump in the vehicle and make the winding, bumpy, yet extremely scenic drive to Kathmandu.

Depart any time.