Located on the roof of the world, the Tibet Autonomous Region is an increasingly popular tourist destination, as it is easy to reach from Nepal. Most Western countries do not need a visa to travel to Nepal. Nepal has become an ideal starting point for tourism in Tibet. Therefore, many foreigners who go to Tibet will choose to enter Tibet from Nepal. There are several ways from Nepal to Tibet. Flights from Kathmandu run every day, and it makes sense to travel easily from Kathmandu to Tibet. The China Friendship Highway creates an excellent opportunity for an epic trip from Kathmandu to Lhasa. This is also an advantage if you are planning to travel around the Lake Manasarorva region and take the Qura Sutra of Mount Kailash. Check out this article for more details on how to get from Kathmandu to Lhasa.
Option 1: Kathmandu to Lhasa Flights
Obviously, the fastest way to get from Nepal to Lhasa is by plane from Kathmandu. Two airlines operate flights from Kathmandu to Lhasa; Sichuan Airlines and Air China. Air China has flights every day, which are two-way, while Sichuan Airlines has flights every other day, which is two-way. Flight departure details can be found on the Tribhuvan International Airport website, the distance from Kathmandu to Lhasa is about 600 km, the flight time is about 1 hour.
Tribhuvan International Airport
Tribhuvan International Airport is located on the Kathmandu Ring Road, about 6 km from the Kathmandu city center. As the only international airport in Nepal, your flight from your home country will land here. Your transfer to Tibet will take off from TIA via the international flight departure area. The flight will take about three and a half hours and you will arrive in Lhasa at 3: 30 p.m.Direct flights cost between US$ 280 and US$ 300, plus airport taxes and transfer fees.
Kathmandu is not high enough to really adapt to the higher elevations in Tibet, so it is best to take a day off, at least after arriving in Lhasa, to reduce the risk of highland disease.
Option 2: Kathmandu to Lhasa by Land
Currently, due to the opening of the Geelong Port crossing, international tourists can travel overland from Kathmandu to Lhasa.It is only a six-hour drive from Kathmandu to the Port of Geelong.After entering Tibet, the road smoothly leads to an interchange with China’s famous G318 Highway.The asphalt road is well laid, and it is convenient and fast to cross the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
In fact, an overland trip from Kathmandu to Lhasa will give you even more rewards as it passes through some of Tibet’s most striking attractions. You can visit the famous Everest base camp in Tibet, the historical city of Shigatse, Yandrok Holy Lake, Gyantse Kumamoto splendid architecture, etc., a total of only 8 days to complete this wonderful tour, in addition to two days of sightseeing in Lhasa.
Option 3:Cycling from Kathmandu to Lhasa
Cycling is a great way to explore Tibet. Cycling in Tibet can be physically and psychologically challenging, but it will be even more rewarding when you see the unique scenery of this beautiful region. Every year, more people choose to explore the area by mountain bike and explore the area with a guide in order to get the best out of the trip.
Ride a bike to Tibet Ride a bike to Tibet
You can ride your own bike, or you can buy or rent it in Lhasa. If you are traveling as a group, it is best for everyone to use the same type of bike, as this makes it easier to share spare parts that may be needed along the way. The average cost of buying a mountain bike in Lhasa is around US$ 75, and it can also be rented for around 99 a day.
Bicycle Travel Packing List
Some of the things you need are in addition to what you need for a normal tour of Tibet. A good waterproof tent is a must, and a warm sleeping bag is also a must. Always carry a basic first aid kit for emergencies and plenty of food. You will be able to get the basics of Tibetan food such as Tsamba or beef, but many other foods outside Lhasa will be scarce. Since you need to be accompanied by a guide during your visit, they can show you some routes you can try, but the map is still a good idea, so you can plan your own route with your guide.
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