Arrival in Kumming, southwest China. It is an easy day to meet the crew and take care of the paperwork. You need a permit to visit Tibet, as well a driver’s permit. Your Blueflower representatives take care of the hassle and you check-in for an early night. Sleep doesn’t come quite readily. After all, tomorrow you are going to Tibet, and driving an adventure truck to the base of Mount Everest.
You fly to Lhasa and soon realise that jumping straight onto the road would be a mistake. The sacred city is full of cultural treasures to explore. Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery… these are just some of the marvels of Lhasa and heritage of Tibetan Buddhism. After you have ― let’s be honest ― barely scratched the surface of what Lhasa has to offer, you set out for the towards Shigatse, Tibet’s second largest city. This adventure involves some of the most satisfying driving you have ever done. You must go over several mountain passes that exceed the 5 thousand metres altitude. Just to put things in perspective, you are driving much higher than Mont Blanc. From this precipitous passes you negotiate switchbacks that demand your full attention. This is a serious adventure.
It is time to venture closer to the Himalayas. This might be one of the best views in the entire world. You drive in sight of several 8-thousanders. Since you had an early start, you can see the peak of Everest catching the golden hues of dawn. Next morning, well before dawn, you drive to higher and higher ground, and from the feet of the giant, in view of the summit, you witness a second sunrise. What you are seeing only a privileged few can see. It comes natural to you. All the roads you have taken have led you to this place, and it is just what you wanted.
You trace your path back to Lhasa. If it is true that saying goodbye to the mountain saddens you in a way, you are coming back with new knowledge and a fresh perspective. You get another day to explore Lhasa at your leisure. It is true that you had barely scratched the surface. The new you can see deeper, much deeper.
Provide us with a few starting details about your travel plans, and one of our specialists will be in touch to give you suggestions and ideas.
