Lhasa to Kathmandu tours have long been a top choice among nature enthusiasts, pilgrims, and travel enthusiasts. Tibet and Nepal are renowned for their mystical religions, majestic trans-Himalayan scenery, and also abundant ancient heritage sites. Thanks to tourism boom in recent years, transportation between these destinations has become much more convenient - flights and roads both provide easy access. However, many travelers do not know how best to organize this journey due to the lack of the first-hand information, so in this article we give all of the necessary details which will help you plan an amazing trip from Lhasa to Kathmandu.
Lhasa to Kathmandu by Car
The most popular way to travel from Tibet to Nepal by land is to drive from Lhasa city to Kathmandu, crossing Gyirong border, which is located in Tibet's southwest. The border was opened in 2014, and was planned to use only for rail traffic. But due to the damage of Zhangmu border in 2015 earthquake, Gyirong became the main crossing for commercial and tourism purpose.
Why Travel Overland from Lhasa to Kathmandu
In recent years, the overland tour is becoming more and more popular because of its sightseeing along the way, as there are indeed a lot to see in Tibet and Nepal. You can best experience the diverse cultures of these transhimalayan areas by walking and making several stops en route. You’ll visit ancient monasteries, holy lakes, traditional Tibetan and Nepalese villages, and cross the high mountain passes to explore the glaciers on the road from Lhasa up to the Gyirong Border. While, the most attractive destination is Qomolangma National Nature Preserve, which includes the Everest Base Camp and Langtang National Park. This trip also gives you a chance to interact with the locals and observe their daily lives.
China-Nepal Friendship Highway
Lhasa to Kathmandu Distance and Route
Due to the terrain of the Tibetan Plateau, the distance from Lhasa to Kathmandu is approximately 1,100 kilometers (680 miles), via the famous Friendship Highway. Although the road conditions have been greatly improved and well-maintained by the government for boosting the tourism, the driving hours are still long due to the many high passes, zigzags, etc. This overland trip has several stopovers and typically needs 6-8 days. You’ll first get to Shigatse from Lhasa via Gyantse, which takes about 7 hours. Then, you will need to travel for about 9 hours from there to Everest Base Camp. It will take you 10 hours from EBC to get to Gyirong Town and then another 9 hours for the Gyirong Border. From Gyirong Port to Kathmandu is about another 6 hours away along the rugged mountain road. Here are the suggested itinerary and some of the highlights en route:
Day 1-Day 3 Lhasa Sightseeing & Acclimatization Potala Palace: The sightseeing in Lhasa of course includes the city’s iconic Potala Palace. As the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tibet, it was built by the ancient Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo during the Tubo period in the 7th century, and was once home (winter palace) to Dalai Lama.
Jokhang Temple: Housing a precious 1.5m statue of Shakyamuni Buddha at the age of 12, the Jokhang is regarded as the most sacred temple in Tibet. Built in the year of 647 A.D., this temple is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as an extension of the Potala Palace.
Barkhor Street: After visiting Jokhang Temple, explore Barkhor Street; it features an exciting market offering traditional Tibetan goods and souvenirs.
Day 4-Day 5 Lhasa / Gayntse / ShigatseGyantse: Located in the heart of Tibet, Gyantse is famous for its impressive fort and stunning Tibetan architectures (Kunbum Stupa).
Shigatse: Shigatse is the second-largest city in Tibet and home to Tashilhunpo Monastery - home of Panchen Lama.
Day 5-Day 6 Shigatse / Everest Base CampRongbuk Monastery: Located near Mount Everest Base Camp and one of the highest monasteries worldwide. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Mount Everest Base Camp: Our tour takes you to the North Base Camp of Mount Everest on its Tibetan side for stunning views of Earth's tallest peak.
Day 7 Tibet-Nepal BorderGyirong: You'll travel along the Friendship Highway - one of the world's highest motorable roads - before crossing into Nepal and stopping off at Gyirong on its border town journey.
Please note:It's another 160km from the port to Kathmandu. But don't worry, you can easily hire a jeep with driver at the Nepalese border (they actually wait for tourists there). Scheduled buses are also available, but not as comfortable as jeeps, as the road conditions in Nepal are really bad.
Lhasa to Kathmandu by Flight
The fastest and easiest way to travel from Lhasa to Kathmandu is by flight. There are 1 or 2 flights between the two cities every day, and the duration is around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Additionally, for further details regarding tickets you may visit Himalaya Airlines, Sichuan Airlines or Air China's official websites which operate this route.
Himalayan mountain view on the plane from Lhasa to Kathmandu
How to Book the Lhasa to Kathmandu Flight?
There are multiple convenient and cost-effective online platforms for you to book the flight from Lhasa to Kathmandu. Such platforms as Expedia, Tripadvisor, Skyscanner and Cheapoair enable users to compare airfares and secure the best offers. The other way is you may ask a reliable air agent or your travel agency to help book the tickets. Due to limited flights from Lhasa to Kathmandu, it is wise to book early for more affordable rates.
Lhasa to Kathmandu Flight Schedule:
| Flight No. |
Airport & Time |
Duration & Stopover |
Frequency |
Plane Model |
Price |
H9775
Himalaya Airlines |
LXA(13:15)-KTM(12:40) |
1h40m
Nonstop |
Monday |
Airbus A319 |
|
3U8719
Sichuan Airlines |
LXA(11:35)-KTM(11:00) |
1h40m
Nonstop |
Not everyday |
Airbus A319 |
|
CA407
Air China |
LXA(12:40)-KTM(12:20) |
1h55m
Nonstop |
Not everyday |
Airbus A319 |
|
Please note:
1.The departure time and arrival time are on local time and Nepal is 2 hours and 15 minutes behind China.
2.Due to the seasonal difference, the flight schedules above are for reference only, please contact us for the latest details.
Lhasa to Kathmandu by Bikes or Motorcycles
Traveling from Lhasa to Kathmandu on bikes or motorcycles can be exciting and physically strenuous, yet offers great opportunity to witness the beautiful Himalayan scenery from a different perspective while experiencing the rich culture of the region. You'll get fresh air while touching down onto earth instead of sitting inside an air-conditioned car.
The route and the duration of a
motorcycle tour is the same as traveling by car. While, if you plan to cycle to Kathmandu, the entire journey takes around 17 - 19 days, including sightseeing stops along the way. The initial leg from Lhasa to Shigatse and Jiding takes approximately 7 days, followed by a 4 days cycle to Everest Base Camp. From there, it takes about 3 days to reach Gyirong town and an additional 2 days to finally arrive in Kathmandu.
It's important to be aware that either bike or motorcycle tour is only suitable for experienced riders, and it requires a big investment of money. The costs are higher compared to car or flight options. A dedicated support team will be available to assist with logistics, provide necessary supplies, offer chef services, etc.
Lhasa to Kathmandu by Train in the Future
The train option from Lhasa to Kathmandu is still not accessible at present. However, the railway to link China and Nepal is being planned and the construction is underway, with the joint effort of both two sides. So far, one extension of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway from Lhasa to Shigatse has been completed and put into operation; next is Gyirong and then Kathmandu extensions with completion expected sometime before 2025.
Document Preparation for Lhasa to Kathmandu Tour
Before you start your trip from Lhasa to Kathmandu, it is important to make sure that you have all the necessary visas and permits.
Chinese VisaFirstly, visitors to Tibet must have a valid Chinese visa (if you are a citizen of a country that requires one to enter China). The Chinese embassies or consulates in most countries will issue a standard 30-day or a 60-day visa for single entry within one week (L category). For getting a Chinese Visa, you will need to submit your original passport, 2 personal photos and a completed application (you can either download the form online or go to an embassy to pick it up), along with proof that your flight to/from China has been booked, and your hotel booking in China. Sometimes, a visa invitation letter is required, in this case, you can just ask a travel agency for help. Contact us.
Note: You’ll need a Group Chinese Visa if you enter Tibet from Nepal according to the treaty between China and Nepal. For more info, please check:
Travel to Tibet from Nepal.
Tibet Travel PermitWhen entering Tibet, in addition to your Chinese visa, a
Tibet Travel Permit issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau will also be necessary. To obtain the Tibet Travel Permit, you’ll need to book a tour through a local travel agency and provide them with your passport and visa details. The application normally takes about 15 work days, and your travel agency will handle everything.
Tibet Travel PermitAs for entering Nepal, you have two options for applying for a visa on arrival: Tibet-Nepal border or Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport. In either case, you just simply bring two passport-sized photos along with any applicable fees paid either in US dollars or Nepalese Rupees.
FAQs about Lhasa to Kathmandu Tour
1. When is the best season for a Lhasa to Kathmandu tour?Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally considered the ideal times for taking this journey, when both Tibet and Nepal experience mild, pleasant weather with minimal rainfall and clear skies. The temperature is comfortable for outdoor activities, and the good visibility will allow you to fully appreciate views of Himalayan mountains even from a distance.
2. Lhasa to Kathmandu by flight or overland? Which is better? For those with a sufficient budget and time, the overland tour is undoubtedly the ultimate choice. Traveling across approximately 1300 kilometers, this scenic journey takes around 7 days to complete. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to explore numerous historical landmarks and breathtaking natural wonders including the north side Everest Base Camp.
But if time is of the essence, flying may provide the ideal solution. Lasting just 1 hour and 30 minutes in flight time, it provides bird’s views of the majestic high Himalayas.
Lhasa to Kathmandu tour by overland ends at Gyirong Port
3. Can I travel independently from Lhasa to Kathmandu?Currently, under the Tibet travel policy, independent travel from Lhasa to Kathmandu is not permitted for international tourists. To set off on a trip in Tibet, international tourists are required to make advance arrangements with a licensed Tibet Travel agency, which will handle all aspects of the tour. It is essential to note that only authorized travel agents based in Tibet have the authority to apply for the necessary Tibet Travel Permit on behalf of the tourists. Nevertheless, there are private tour options available through travel agencies that can be customized to suit individual preferences and requirements. Which means you’ll travel with your own guide and driver during the whole trip.
4. Can I take a public bus from Lhasa to Kathmandu?There are actually long-distance buses commuting between Lhasa and Kathmandu along the Friendship Highway, but this public transport option is only for local people and Nepali citizens, international tourists are not permitted to travel by this way as per the regulation. Furthermore, this bus route does not stop at any attractions along the way, therefore this mode of travel is less popular among travelers.
5. How much does it cost for a Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour?If you take a standard 7 days join-in tour from Lhasa to Kathmandu by overland, the cost usually ranges from 900 USD - 1,200 USD. This price includes permits, accommodation, vehicle, guide services, and entrance fees to various attractions along the route.
While, the cost of a private tour varies hugely depending on several factors such as group size, travel duration, types of hotels, etc. To give an approximate estimate, a private Lhasa to Kathmandu overland tour could cost anywhere from 1,500 USD to 3,000 USD per person.
Some Useful Tips for Traveling from Lhasa to Kathmandu
Pack AppropriatelyBefore traveling from Lhasa to Kathmandu, it is crucial that you pack appropriately. Weather in these two regions varies dramatically so layered clothing should be brought. Durable shoes that support walking will come in handy since hiking will likely occur throughout your journey. Similarly, it would be wise to include sun protection measures like sunglasses, sunscreen in your bag so as to stay protected against UV radiation.
Altitude Sickness PrecautionTibet is famous for its high altitudes, with parts of it sitting over 4000 meters. Altitude sickness can be an issue when traveling from Lhasa to Kathmandu as you’ll pass by mountain passes en route, so it's wise to prepare yourself beforehand by taking medication such as Diamox. Be sure to drink lots of water, have enough sleep, and avoid liquor or smoking if possible.
Select Your AccommodationWhen traveling from Lhasa to Kathmandu, selecting a suitable accommodation is key to an enjoyable journey. Guesthouses provide cost-effective lodging with basic but comfortable facilities; for an upscale experience there are various luxury hotels in both Lhasa and Kathmandu, which boast luxurious rooms with modern amenities as well as beautiful scenery, but the accommodation options are fewer when you are out of cities, especially at some remote areas. (e.g. Only guesthouses are available at Everest Base Camp.)
Cross Tibet-Nepal BorderCrossing from Tibet (China) into Nepal at Gyirong Port can be an efficient and relatively seamless experience for tourists. All necessary documentation should be ready for inspection by border authorities at Gyirong Port - be sure to have all required immigration and customs declaration forms, passport information and other essential paperwork ready when leaving Tibet as this will all be checked at the border checkpoints.
Immigration office after crossing Gyirong borderOn the Nepal side, border crossing can be more relaxed but less efficient. To obtain a visa for Nepal, you’ll need to fill out an application form, provide passport photos and present them at an immigration desk - this process usually takes less than 30 minutes before you'll be free to enter Nepal and head directly towards Kathmandu.
Conclusion:Simply put, traveling from Lhasa to Kathmandu will undoubtedly be an unforgettable journey, whether by overland route, quick flight, unique motorcycle ride or epic bike ride. By following these tips and taking precautionary measures during your travels through these holy lands of Himalayas you're sure to make memories that last a lifetime!
It's essential to choose a trusted tour operator when planning your Lhasa to Kathmandu tour. We’ve been operating Tibet tours over 10 years, and with our friendly guide and reliable driver, you’ll have a pleasant and safe journey. Contact us today to set off on this wonderful adventure!
