The road from Lhasa to Kathmandu offers the most awesome views in all of Tibet and perhaps even Asia. On this journey we will travel from the barren Tibetan Plateau to the lush, semitropical scenery of Nepal, the scent of yak butter giving way to curry and incense as we descend into the subcontinent. Beginning in Lhasa, we will explore the major monasteries, temples and sacred sites of Tibet under the guidance of our experts. We will take part in prayer ceremonies, visit the homes of local Tibetans and discuss religious customs throughout the trip. After exploring the Holy City, we will then take the spectacular overland drive through Central Tibet to Nepal, stopping along the way at Central Tibet's highlights - Yamdrok Tso, a stunning turquoise blue lake at 4488m; Gyantse, where we'll have the chance to view the magnificent murals of Kumbum Stupa; Shigatse, Tibet's second largest town and home to Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama. We will also make a detour to Everest (Mt. Qomolangma) base camp and spend a day hiking at the base of the mountain and admiring the world's highest peak.