Potala Palace- Tibet.

The jovial group of 19 Danish got here in Lasha from Beijing via train on October 9, 2012. The part of their retreat was planned on Friendship Highway; a highway beginning from the Roof of the world Tibet to all the way to Nepalese border Kodari. The lineup spent the next three days at Tibetan capital Lasha. The first two days at Lasha, the group had the sightseeing tour to tranquil habitat of the monks; Sera and Norbulingka Monasteries.

Tibet, then.

They even made to spiritual Jokhang Temple and the typical Barkhor Square on the very day. The dazzling Potala Palace stood tall yet humbled to greet the squad. The royal monument reflects the Tibetan primeval culture. The Drepung Monastery in Lasha which sits on the foot of Mt. Gephel is one of the great three Gelukpa university monasteries of Tibet. The final day at Lasha was important for the visitors to become accustomed with the altitude before they hit the 1000km 4WD ride on the Highway.

Icy lake on the Highway.

The Danish squad utilized every opportunity on the highway. On the way, they encountered the one of the highest altitude passes like Karo La Pass 5045m, Gyatso La Pass 5220m and Tong La Pass 5143m. The stately view of Yamdrok Tso Lake 4770m from the ascent of Gyatso La Pass was worthy enough to make the spellbinding halt.

Twists and Turns amidst Himalayas.

Driving amongst the Himalayan ranges with the brief halts and good night rest at the typical Tibetan cities was overwhelming the Danish travelers. Gyantse Dzong and Kumbum Monastery at Gyantse, Tashilhumpo Monastery at Shigaste, Rongbuk Monastery at Rongbuk added the cultural flavor of Tibetans and Buddhism during the drive.

Monastery on the top of the hill.

The Danish were overjoyed to board on a comfy 4-wheeler to the famous Everest Base Camp. After, the most exciting journey on the highway situated at the highest plateau the team was at Zhangmu on October 17. Leaving the last Chinese city behind, the Danish group was driving on the Araniko Highway towards Kathmandu on October 18.

Rear window view.

Pics: Explore Himalaya.

Kipling Travel is an exclusive country partner of Explore Himalaya.