How to Travel from Nepal to Tibet: By Flight, Overland or Train?

Getting to Tibet from Nepal is a popular travel route nowadays among international travelers. The two regions are close to each other and share historical roots but have developed unique Himalayan cultures with distinct experiences for travelers. Based on different ways of transportation, the distance from Nepal to Tibet can vary when choosing a flight, train, or overland trip. As Tibet covers a large land area on the high plateau, the distance between different regions of Tibet and Nepal can also present huge differences. Read this passage to learn how far Tibet is from Nepal by flight, train, and overland and to choose the best way to get to Tibet from Nepal.

Where are Nepal and Tibet?

Tibet is located in the southwest of China and on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. At an average elevation of 4,000 meters, it borders India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and other countries and regions, making it an important gateway to the southwest border of China. Located at the southern foot of the Himalayas, Nepal is an inland country in the mountainous region of South Asia, with the north bordering China and the rest three sides adjacent to India.

Sharing the majestic Himalayan Mountains, Tibet, and Nepal are the closest neighbors to each other. Both are famous for the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest and the border between them runs exactly through the peak. However, the cultures and landscapes of Tibet and Nepal are very different. Thus, a tour of both Nepal and Tibet is one of the most amazing journeys that many tourists seek.

Traveling from Nepal to Tibet Overland: The Most Popular Option

The overland distance between Kathmandu and Lhasa via Gyirong Port is about 1120km. It’s a classic and popular travel route among tourists that includes scenic sites and cultural attractions like Mount Everest, Everest Base Camp, Tashilhunpo Monastery, Yamdrok Lake, and Potala Palace. By taking the overland trip from Kathmandu to Lhasa, you will see the scenery change from the Kathmandu valley to the soaring Himalayas and the vast Tibetan Plateau. It is a deep discovery of Tibetan landscapes and culture.

Kathmandu to Lhasa overland via Tibet Everest Base Camp

It usually takes 8 days to complete this epic road journey from Nepal to Tibet. Starting from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, you will first drive along the mountain road to the border at the Nepalese side, Rashuwaghadi. It is a short crossing to the Chinese side of the border over the Resuo Bridge. Once you cross the border, your Tibetan guide and driver will meet you on the Tibetan side and drive you to Gyirong Town. From there, it is a long journey to Lhasa, passing by some of the most stunning landscapes in the world.

The first highlighted trip is from Gyirong to Everest Base Camp on the Tibetan side, where you can appreciate the stunning peak view of Mount Everest and discover the world's highest monastery – Rongbuk Monastery. Then, the route joins the well-paved national road to Shigatse and Gyantse, where you can visit the famed Tashilhunpo Monastery and be amazed by the giant Kumbum Stupa in Gyantse. As you travel eastwards to Lhasa, you will also pass the turquoise Yamdrok Lake, and Karola Glacier. The finale of this overland journey will be a 2-day Lhasa city tour, and you will get to explore this holy city by visiting Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, and Sera and Drepung Monastery.

Kathmandu to Lhasa overland via Yamdrok Lake

Flying from Nepal to Tibet: The Fastest Way

Covering a short linear distance of only about 600 km, the flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa is the shortest way to enter Tibet from Nepal. It is also the only international flight to Tibet. On this flight journey, tourists will have the chance to witness the splendid view of the soaring Himalayan ranges, including the peak view of Mount Everest. Before landing in Lhasa, you can also clearly see the winding Yarlung Zangbo River.

Peak view of Mount Everest from Kathmandu to Lhasa flight

There are currently three direct flights each week departing from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu to Lhasa. The flight is operated by Himalaya Airlines, and it takes about 1.5 hours to arrive at Lhasa Gonggar Airport. Check the detailed information on Kathmandu Lhasa flights shown below.

Traveling from Nepal to Tibet by Train: An Experience to Look Forward To

Currently, there is no railway available connecting Nepal and Tibet. But taking a train from Kathmandu to Lhasa will be realized in the future. According to the joint efforts of China and Nepal, the construction of a railway between Nepal and Tibet is an urgent issue for the economic development and transportation in both countries. The current Lhasa to Shigatse railway will be extended 540km from Shigatse to Gyirong Port, and the potential railway is expected to pass through Gyirong to Kathmandu as well.

Required Permits for a Nepal to Tibet Tour

Several permits are needed for international tourists entering Tibet from Nepal.

(1) Chinese Group Visa and Tibet Travel Permit

The Chinese Group Visa is a special visa only available when entering Tibet from Nepal. It is obtained from the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu, and applied for on your behalf by your travel agency. The Tibet Travel Permit is a must for any foreign tourist to enter Tibet. We can help to obtain both documents on your behalf. Just remember to arrive in Kathmandu at least 5 days in advance for the visa application.

The Tibet Travel Permit is the most important document for every foreigner travelling to Tibet.

(2) Additional Permits for Visiting Mount Everest, Mount Kailash, and Other Special Areas

The Tibet Travel Permit covers visiting Lhasa and the surrounding area. Additional permits are needed for visiting other parts of Tibet, including the Alien’s Travel Permit for visiting Everest Base Camp and Shigatse and the Military Travel Permit for remote areas like Mount Kailash. These permits can be applied for after entering Tibet and will be taken care of by your tour guide.

An Aliens' Travel Permit is required when your Tibet tour covers the region of Mount Everest.

Conclusion

Visiting Nepal and Tibet together is an opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of the Himalayan region. Despite their remote locations, convenient travel options by flight and road exist and are popular ways to experience life on the roof of the world. Direct flights from Kathmandu to Lhasa will take you to Tibet quickly, while the overland adventure is an awesome journey through some of the most unique scenery in the world.