Tibet overland from Kathmandu?

[Michael Sunkist]

nameste, has anyone went to Lhasa via jeep? I'd like to hear your experiences and whom you used to set up your travel plans while in KTM, were they also able to get your visa set up in KTM? Happy Trails

[kolobar]

Each and every of zillion agents in KTM is selling trips to Tibet. There are few agencies specialized in Tibet tours like Richa or Greenhill.
You can join regular weekly budget trip (5 days KTM - Lhasa via Lhatse, Shigatse, Gyantse, dormitory accom., no food). Or arrange one according to your own itinerary.
Visa and alien travel permit are part of an arrangement. You can enter Tibet from Nepal only on a group visa. If you have individual chinese visa in your passport it will be cancelled by chinese embassy in KTM when applying for group visa. Only agency can apply for group visa. Check if an agency can provide you group visa with only your name if you have your own travel plans.
For alien travel permit agency has to apply through its tibetan partner agency in Lhasa.
The main problem with KTM - Lhasa overland travel is acclimatization. If you stay in Zanghmu the first night next day you will already cross 5000+ pass and stay in Lhatse overnight where many have serious altitude problems. If you follow your own itinerary it is wise to have one acclimatization day in Nyalam.

[Michael Sunkist]

Thanks Kolobar, guess I'll just hit KTM and deal with it. I live at 7000 ft so acclimation to altitude won't be that difficult. Happy trails