This epic two week road and hiking trip, set in the shadow of some of the highest mountains in the world, will take you through mainland China to get to the heart of Tibet.

From visiting the legendary Potala Palace in Lhasa to witnessing the sun rise over Mt Everest, there will be plenty of other opportunities to enjoy the monasteries, temples and stupas, while passing through this massive nation.

Tibet forms an integral part of every Asian itinerary. For the best holidays in Asia, choose Asia specialists over at Transindus.

Day 01: Lhasa

Arrive Lhasa by air and drive downtown to your hotel (70km) for a day of rest and time to get acclimated to the 3650 m altitude.

This will ensure a good start to your itinerary and the long journey to the highlands. Overnight in Lhasa.

Day 02: Lhasa

On your first day of sightseeing in this vibrant heart of Tibet you will first visit the Potala Palace, home to the winter and summer palace of generations of the Dalai Lama, and also the highest of its kind in the world, and the magical Jokhang Temple, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Next walk around Barkor Street thrice in a clockwise direction and pray like the locals together for an immersive cultural experience. Overnight in Lhasa.

Day 03: Lhasa

The third morning in Lhasa will be one to remember as you will be visiting the Sera Monastery, where hundreds of monks reside to learn and practice Buddhism in their own unique way, such as exaggerated dancing moves to display Buddhist philosophy.

For a traditional Tibetan lunch, you will be visiting the scenic Dadong Village and enjoy a meal at a local owner’s home. You will get a deep insight on how the village community lives and benefits from tourism. Return to Lhasa for the night.

Day 04: Lhasa to Shigatse(375 km)

Set off on a captivating road trip to Shigatse, the second largest city in Tibet, with three scenic stops on the way. This celebrated tourist route via G318 highway will cover the distance in around 6hrs-30minutes.

First of all, as you drive up the 4797m Kampala Pass you will get a panoramic view of the turquoise Yamdrok Lake with the towering Mt Nyenchen Khongsar in the background.

After driving a further 20km from the lake, another natural wonder in the form of the Karola Glacier awaits you.The furthest end of this river of ice actually touches the side of the road.

In the afternoon, you will visit the a Buddhist pagoda complex, the imposing Gyantse Kumbum Fortress , which has over a lac of Buddha images inside.

The stunning architecture is a mix of Chinese, Tibetan and Nepalese styles and is absolutely spectacular to look at from outside. Drive further to Shigatse for rest and relaxation after your almost eight hours of driving. Overnight in Shigatse.

Day 05: Shigatse to Everest(375km)

Another early start from Shigatse you will get your first glimpse Mt Everest from a vantage point at the 5200m high Gyawula Pass, and also see the five other tallest peaks in the world, towering high above the mist and clouds.

Upon your arrival at the base camp at the foot of Everest, you will check in a local guesthouse and enjoy the sun setting over the peak and the jaw-dropping views of the North Face. Overnight at Everest base camp(5010m).

Day 06: Base camp to Saga(450km)

Witness the sun rise over Mt Everest and proceed to Saga as you have a long drive ahead of you. En route you can see Mt Shishapangma(8012m), the 14th highest peak in the world.

The picturesque Peiko Tso lake(4590m) is located at its base, and if you are lucky you may spot a Tibetan wild ass or two on its shores. Overnight at a hotel in Saga.

Day 07: Saga to Darchen(450km)

Another 8-10 hours of driving(weather permitting) will take you to Darchen, a village on the base of Mt Kailash, the holiest mountain in Tibet, and visited by thousands of pilgrims each year from all over the world.

On the way to Darchen, the path will also touch Lake Mansarovar, before entering the magnificent Saga Valley nestled between the Himalayan and Gangdise mountain ranges. Overnight in Darchen.

Day 08: Darchen to Dirapuk(7km)

Board an eco-bus for Sarshung Valley from Darchen from where you will trek for around 14km along the Lachu river to marvel at both the northern and western faces of Mt Kailash.

Your trek will end at the village of Dirapuk, from where you can get much better and closer views of Mt Kailash. Overnight at Dirapuk.

Day 09: Dirapuk to Dzutripuk(24km)

Today will be your toughest day on the itinerary, but equally rewarding, as you trek towards the Dromala Pass(5630m) and the nearby Kadoe Lake, both the highest points on the trekking route.

There are several tea houses on the way which provide a welcome place to rest and refresh. Your final destination for the day will be Dzutripuk. Overnight at a guesthouse.

Day 10. Dzutripuk to Darchen(7km)

From Dzutripuk you will trek downhill for 7km until you reach the village of Zomato, from where you can catch a bus to Darchen(5km). Rest in a lodge in Darchen for the night.

Day 11: Darchen to Saga(450km)

You will wind your way back to Lhasa by the route you came. Enjoy once again the scenic drive from Darchen to Saga and have one more last look at the beautiful Lake Mansarovar. Overnight in Saga.

Day 12: Saga to Sakya(350km)

Your drive from Saga to Sakya will pass through the amazing Saga valley once again from where you can admire the beauty of the valley nestled between the two mighty Himalayan ranges. Overnight at Sakya.

Day 13: Sakya to Shigatse(170km)

After exploring the historic town of Sakya in the morning as well as the Sakya Monastery with its collection of ancient scriptures and statues, you will drive the scenic road from Sakya to Shigatse. Overnight at Shigatse.

Day 14: Shigatse to Lhasa(280km)

Spend your final morning in Shigatse with a visit to the Tashilunpo Monastery, which is the seat of the Pancen Lama and a religious center of the city.

After lunch, drive back to Lhasa and enjoy the surreal views of the Yalong Valley on the way. Head straight to your hotel in Lhasa for the night, to recharge batteries for the journey back home. Overnight in Lhasa.

Day 15: Lhasa to Airport(70km)

After breakfast, transfer to the international airport in Lhasa(or the train station) for your return trip. End of the tour at the airport.