Kathmandu to Lhasa: How to Get to Tibet from Nepal

Nepal is the only country in the world with international access to Tibet. Therefore, the most recommended way is to take a non-stop flight from Nepal to Lhasa, which is both time-saving and convenient. The most classic way is to travel along Sino-Nepal Highway to Lhasa, during which you can also enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The most thrilling way is to take the helicopter from Simikot, Nepal to Purang, Tibet, which is costly.

You can fly to the Chinese mainland and then choose to take a train/flight or travel by road to Lhasa. Whichever travel method you choose, a trip from Nepal to Tibet will offer you a unique and wonderful traveling experience.

Travel from Nepal to Tibet

Fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa

You can take Himalaya Airlines from Nepal to Lhasa. On each Monday, Flight H9774 takes off from Tribhuvan International Airport at 8:30 and lands at Lhasa Gonggar International Airport at 12:05 following 1 hour and 20 minutes of flight time.  

Travel overland from Kathmandu to Lhasa via Gyirong Port

You can also travel along the Sino-Nepal Friendship Highway from Kathmandu to Lhasa via Gyirong Port. It is a total of 1,204 kilometers. During the overland journey, you can enjoy the wonderful plateau views in Tibet and Nepal:

Gyirong is popular with international tourists. The exotic snow-capped mountains, epic lakes, and interesting sites prove to be the best tourist attractions.

Mount Everest is a peak in the Himalaya Mountainrange, the tallest point on Earth. Adorned with glistening glaciers and towering cliffs, it commands the horizon, a beacon of natural splendor and magnificence.

Tashi Lhunpo Monastery is a prominent Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Shigatse, Tibet. It's renowned for its impressive architecture, vibrant religious rituals, and rich cultural heritage.

Korola Glacier, nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Tibet, China, is a majestic marvel of nature. You can embark on awe-inspiring treks to witness this glacier's grandeur firsthand, immersing yourself in its serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Yamdrok Lake, known as the "Turquoise Lake," is a sacred site for Tibetan Buddhists. You can marvel at its tranquil scenery, take a stroll along its shores, or explore nearby monasteries such as Samding Monastery.

Yamdrok Lake

Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, boasts the iconic Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, sacred to Tibetan Buddhists. Its vibrant Barkhor Street offers a glimpse into Tibetan culture with bustling markets and traditional architecture.

The most amazing way to enter Tibet, crossing the border is an adventure all of its own, driving up into the massive Himalayas and passing through between these high peaks onto a plateau land where your only thoughts need to be on what you are visiting next.

Notice: It’s worth noting that the road from Kathmandu to Gyirong Port is narrow and winding, especially in the rainy season (June-September). The heavy rain might cause the landslide, and traffic jams always take place. You are advised to have a Kathmandu Lhasa overland driving journey in spring, autumn, and winter.

Take Helicopter from Nepal to Tibet via Purang

From Nepal to Tibet, you can also take a helicopter tour via Purang - a pivotal gateway for those venturing from Nepal into Tibet. This 10-day helicopter tour will start from Kathmandu. We will make a stop at Nepalgunj, Simikot, and Hilsa for customs, immigration procedures, and clearance. After that, we will get to Purang, where you can trek the hallowed trails of Mount Kailash, bask in the tranquil aura of Lake Manasarovar, and immerse yourself in the ancient charm of Darchen. It's a journey of spiritual discovery and natural splendor, designed to captivate the hearts and minds of intrepid travelers seeking the extraordinary.

Nepal to Tibet via Chinese Mainland

You can also choose to fly from Nepal to China cities, like Chengdu, Kunming, and Guangzhou, and then take a flight or train to Tibet, or travel overland to Tibet.

Fly from Nepal to Chengdu, then Get to Tibet from Chengdu by Train, Flight, or Road

Fly from Kathmandu to Chengdu

You can take Air China or Sichuan Airlines from Kathmandu to Chengdu. On each day, Flight 3U3902 or Flight CA438 takes off from Tribhuvan International Airport and lands at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport following 3 hours and 5 minutes of flight time.  

Explore Highlights in Chengdu

Wuhou Memorial Temple: It is a historical site dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a famous military strategist of the Three Kingdoms period. After visiting the shrine, take a stroll along the adjacent Jinli Promenade, where you can shop for souvenirs, watch traditional performances, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Mount Qingcheng: Mount Qingcheng, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Chengdu, is known for its Taoist temples, lush forests, and tranquil atmosphere. You can explore scenic trails, ancient pagodas, and sacred caves, immersing yourselves in the natural beauty and spiritual heritage of the region.

Mount Qingcheng

Wenshu Yuan Monastery: Located in Chengdu, it is a tranquil Buddhist temple renowned for its serene gardens, ancient architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage. You can explore the temple's halls, admire Buddhist art, and enjoy a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.

Giant Panda Breeding Research Base (XiongmaoJidi): Get up close and personal with China's beloved giant pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Marvel at these adorable creatures as they munch on bamboo, playfully climb trees, and laze around in their natural habitat.

Sichuan Opera: Experience the artistry of Sichuan Opera. Be mesmerized by colorful costumes, elaborate makeup, and dramatic performances featuring face-changing, fire-spitting, and acrobatics. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in this traditional form of Chinese opera.

After Chengdu tour, you can travel from Chengdu to Tibet by train, flight or road

Take Tibet Train from Chengdu to Lhasa

Starting from Chengdu, Train Z322 links it with your dream city-Lhasa. After spending several days in the homeland of Giant Pandas, you can jump on the train from Chengdu to Lhasa. It departs from Chengduxi Railway Station at 21:11. After 34 hours and 30 minutes, this Chengdu Lhasa train will arrive in Lhasa at 07:41 on the third day.

Fly from Chengdu to Lhasa

You can take Air China, Sichuan Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, or Tibet Airlines from Chengdu to Lhasa. On each day, a great number of flights take off from Chengdu Tianfu International Airport and land at Lhasa Gonggar Airport, following about 2 hours and 30 minutes of flight time.  

Travel overland from Chengdu to Lhasa along Sichuan-Tibet Highway G318

The Chengdu to Lhasa overland tour is a dream journey through China’s most scenic route, the G318 National Highway, is a dream journey for every adventurous traveler. Starting in Chengdu, you’ll traverse the picturesque Zheduo Mountain, the serene Maoya Prairie, and the poetic landscape of Daocheng Yading. This extraordinary adventure is bound to become a splendid memory of your life.

Enjoy a hassle-free experience with Tibet Horizon, a Tibetan local tour company with a travel expert team. From designing itineraries and arranging accommodation, we are always here ready to offer you help and an unforgettable traveling experience.

Fly from Nepal to Kunming, then Get to Tibet from Kunming by flight, train or road

Fly from Kathmandu to Kunming

From Kathmandu to Kunming, you can take China Eastern Airlines. On every other day, Flight MU9618 takes off from Tribhuvan International Airport and lands at Kunming Changshui International Airport following 3 hours and 20 minutes of flight time.  

Explore Highlights in Kunming

Stone Forest (Shilin): Marvel at the otherworldly limestone formations of the Stone Forest, resembling a petrified forest created by ancient geological processes.

Dian Lake (Dianchi): Take a stroll along the shores of Dian Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Yunnan Province, and admire the serene waters and surrounding mountains.

Yuantong Temple: Explore the ancient Yuantong Temple, one of the oldest and grandest Buddhist temples in Kunming, featuring traditional architecture, beautiful gardens, and tranquil ponds.

Western Hills (Xishan): Ascend the Western Hills to enjoy panoramic views of Kunming and Dian Lake from the Kunming Dragon Gate, a series of carved stone sculptures and pavilions nestled amidst lush greenery.

Guandu Ancient Town: Step back in time as you wander through the narrow streets and historic buildings of Guandu Ancient Town, a well-preserved Ming dynasty town with ancient temples, traditional courtyard houses, and bustling markets.

After Kunming tour, you can travel from Kunming to Tibet by flight, train or road

Fly from Kunming to Lhasa

From Kunming to Lhasa, there are 10 flights each day operated by Tibet Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines. It is very convenient to travel to Tibet from Kunming. On each day, a great number of flights take off from Kunming Changshui International Airport and land at Lhasa Gonggar International Airport following 2 hours and 30 minutes of flight time.

Take Tibet Train from Kunming to Lhasa

There is no direct train from Kunming to Lhasa. You can fly from Kunming to Xining, and then take a train from Xining to Tibet. You can also travel from Kunming to Tibet by train, making a transfer in Chongqing, Chengdu or Lanzhou where you can drop by and experience local culture and cuisine.

Travel overland from Kunming to Lhasa (Yunnan Tibet Highway G214)

The G214 National Highway from Kunming in Yunnan to Lhasa in Tibet is one of the most arduous roads in the world, traversing more than 2,200 kilometers of mountainous landscapes on the journey to the roof of the world.

The route is one of significance for travelers to Tibet from southwest China. The road runs through the China-Burma Basin and crosses the Hengduan Mountain Range on its way north and west to Lhasa. At its highest point, which is the mountain pass of Hongla Snow Mountain, it reaches an altitude of 4,300 meters above sea level and takes you through some of the most spectacular landscapes in China and Tibet. From thick primeval forests to deep valleys and lofty peaks, the route from Yunnan is one of awe and wonder as you travel through different climates and elevations on this spectacular journey to Tibet:

Three Pagodas Temple: Explore the ancient mysteries of the Three Pagodas Temple, a symbol of Dali's rich history and architectural wonders.

Tiger Leaping Gorge: Marvel at the breathtaking views of Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest and most spectacular river canyons in the world, carved by the Jinsha River.

Meili Snow Mountain: Encounter the majestic peaks of Meili Snow Mountain, also known as Kawagarbo, a sacred mountain revered by Tibetan Buddhists.

Meili Snow Mountain

Deqin County: Deqen is the last place in China before you cross into Tibet, and is set on a mountain over which the Dian Zang Road travels. The area is filled with ancient glaciers, hot springs, and spectacular primeval forests, and is well worth taking a day to explore.

Notice: The best time for driving from Yunnan to Lhasa is from May to November.

Fly from Nepal to Guangzhou, then Get to Tibet from Guangzhou by Train or Flight

Fly from Kathmandu to Guangzhou

You can take a non-stop flight from Nepal to Guangzhou. On each day, Flight CZ3068 will take off at 23:55 from Tribhuvan International Airport. After 4 hours and 40 minutes, you will arrive at 06:50 at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport on the second day.

Explore Highlights in Guangzhou

Canton Tower: Take in breathtaking views of Guangzhou's skyline from the observation decks of Canton Tower, one of the world's tallest structures. Its iconic design and panoramic vistas offer an unforgettable experience.

Shamian Island: Step into the past as you stroll through Shamian Island's tree-lined streets and colonial-era buildings. Once a foreign concession, this historic area boasts charming architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.

Baiyun Mountain: Escape the city and enjoy panoramic views of Guangzhou from Baiyun Mountain's lush peaks. Whether you hike or take a cable car, the natural beauty of Baiyun Mountain is a refreshing getaway.

Cantonese Opera: Immerse yourself in Guangzhou's cultural heritage with a traditional Cantonese opera performance. Known for its elaborate costumes and melodious music, Cantonese opera is a captivating experience.

Cantonese Opera

After Guangzhou tour, you can travel from Guangzhou to Tibet by train or flight

Take Tibet Train from Guangzhou to Lhasa

Starting from Guangzhou, Train Z264 will take you to Lhasa. It departs every day from Guangzhou Railway Station at 9:15. After 53 hours and 2 minutes on the 4980 kilometers-long Railway, this train will arrive in Lhasa at 14:17 on the third day.

Fly from Guangzhou to Lhasa

You can take China Eastern Airline or Loong Air from Guangzhou to Lhasa, making a stop in Shangri-La or Chongqing. The flight will depart at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and arrive at Lhasa Gonggar International Airport following about 6 hours of flight time.

Tibet Travel Permit for Nepali Tourists

To enter Tibet, you need to have several travel documents and permits. As an international tourist, you must have a Tibet Travel Permit, which is only available through a registered tour operator. Tibet Horizon will use a scanned color copy of your passport to apply for the permit on your behalf, and the processing time usually takes around 15-20 days.

In addition to the Tibet Travel Permit, you also need a Chinese Visa to enter Tibet. Unlike the standard Chinese Entry Visa, you will be issued a Chinese Group Visa upon arrival in Nepal. Tibet Horizon’s Nepali staff will apply for the visa on your behalf, and the processing time is three working days.

There are also other permits that you need, such as the Alien’s Travel Permit and the Frontier Pass. These permits are usually obtained upon arrival in Lhasa from the Chinese Mainland, but when traveling from Nepal, you need to have them issued before your trip. Tibet Horizon will handle the arrangements for these permits to be ready before your trip departure date.

Conclusion

Both Nepal and Tibet have strong Buddhist traditions, and cultural exchanges between the two regions have been ongoing for centuries. Nowadays, Tibet, the Roof of the World, has become an ideal destination for Nepali visitors. To travel from Nepal to Tibet, you have the option to either board a direct flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa or fly from Nepal to Tibet via Chinese cities initially, followed by a train, road or flight journey to Lhasa.

Traveling from Kathmandu to Lhasa offers an extraordinary adventure. Although acquiring permits and visas may seem daunting, Tibet Horizon takes care of all these arrangements on your behalf. From arranging accommodations to planning excursions, we've got you covered. Our local experts are here to help you make the most of your journey. Feel free to ask for assistance at any time. Come and experience the wonders of Tibet. Explore the timeless beauty of Tibet with us. Your adventure begins here!