Traveling from Lhasa to Kathmandu is a popular journey for tourists visiting Tibet and Nepal, and there are two main ways to choose: overland or by flight. The overland trip lasts for 7 days, allowing you to explore Tibet’s top highlights, including Mount Everest. The flight, on the other hand, takes just 1.5 hours, providing a quick and convenient option for those short on time.

In this guide, we will introduce the best ways to travel to Kathmandu from Lhasa, including overland, flights, and more alternatives. Read on to know the details of each option, and get expert tips for a smooth journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu.

Overland from Lhasa to Kathmandu: The Most Popular Choice (7 Days)

The overland journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu is one of the most rewarding experiences and the most popular route for tourists. Covering around 1,300 kilometers along the Friendship Highway, the journey takes about seven days to complete. Along the way, you will admire the best of Tibet’s natural and cultural wonders, including Mount Everest.

Starting from Lhasa, where you will spend three days exploring this charming city while acclimatizing to the high altitude. Visit the imposing Potala Palace, the sacred Jokhang Temple, and bustling Barkhor Street. You will also not miss Drepung and Sera, two of "the three great monasteries" of Tibet.

Then travel to Shigatse via Gyantse, where you will appreciate the beautiful Yamdrok Lake, one of the three holy lakes in Tibet. Here, you can take a short hike along its tranquil turquoise waters. En route, you will also explore the Karola Glacier and witness the historic ancient town of Gyantse.

Next, from Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet, the journey takes you to Everest Base Camp (EBC). On the way, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the Himalayas at Gawula Pass, with the breathtaking lineup of the five world's highest peaks before you. From EBC, you will benefit from the unobstructed views of Mount Everest, and enjoy the stunning sunset and sunrise over the world’s highest peak.

After a night stay at EBC, the road descends into the lush valley of Gyirong, passing by Shishapangma Peak and Lake Paiku Tso. The next day, you will cross the Gyirong border and finish the final 7-8 hour-trip to Kathmandu.

The whole journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu follows a well-paved road for the most part, making for an easy drive. However, to ensure a smoother and more comfortable experience, it is recommended to join our 7-day Lhasa to Kathmandu overland tour with all-inclusive services. With travel documents, accommodations, expert local guides, and experienced drivers provided, we ensure your journey is both seamless and enjoyable.

Join our well-designed Lhasa to Kathmandu overland tour with one-stop services!

Flying from Lhasa to Kathmandu: The Fastest Option (1.5 Hours)

If you are short on time, flying is the fastest way to travel from Lhasa to Kathmandu. Currently, direct flights from Lhasa to Kathmandu are available four times per week, departing on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. It takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes to cover a distance of 609 kilometers.

Operated by Himalaya Airlines, the non-stop flights from Lhasa to Kathmandu depart at 1:15 pm and arrives at 12:35 pm local time. It also offers a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the majestic Himalayas. Be sure to choose a window seat on the right side of the plane for the best views.

While the flight can greatly save you time, it does mean missing out on the highlights of the overland journey. However, if you only have a few days to explore Lhasa before heading to Nepal, flying may be your best option.

Besides, given the limited frequency of the flights from Lhasa to Kathmandu, it is recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred seat.

Other Ways to Travel from Lhasa to Kathmandu: Self-Drive, Bike or Motorcycle

In addition to overland travel and flights, you can also travel from Lhasa to Kathmandu by self-driving, biking or even motorcycling. These options are more challenging yet offer a more immersive experience.

Self-drive from Lhasa to Kathmandu

International tourists can now take a self-driving tour in Tibet, meaning you can drive from Lhasa to Kathmandu following the overland route. However, you need to obtain a Chinese temporary driving license, apart from a Chinese Visa and Tibet Travel Permit. Also, you are required to travel with a tour guide, who will offer the co-pilot driving assistance.

Cycling from Lhasa to Kathmandu

The cycling route largely overlaps the overland route through Tibet and Nepal. It is a demanding journey that takes around 16 days to 19 days, depending on your pace. While it gives you greater flexibility to stop and explore the hidden gems of the plateau.

Motorcycling from Lhasa to Kathmandu Motorcycle

Just like the biking trip, the motorcycle journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu is exhilarating and adventurous. Following the Friendship Highway, the ride takes about 12 days, passing through stunning lakes and mountains before reaching Nepal’s capital.

Due to the challenges and complex formalities involved in these options, we recommend contacting us to arrange your Lhasa to Kathmandu tour, whether you choose self-driving, cycling or motorcycling. We handle required travel documents, and provide your preferred vehicle, as well as experienced local guides, to ensure a safe and smooth experience.

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Can I Travel to Kathmandu from Lhasa by Train? In the Future

At present, there is no direct railway linking Lhasa and Kathmandu. However, the construction of the railway is currently underway.

The first extension of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, which runs from Lhasa to Shigatse, is fully operational. The high-speed train from Lhasa to Shigatse departs twice per day, and takes only about two hours.

The next phase, which will connect Shigatse to Gyirong, is expected to be completed in the near future. Once this section of the railway is ready, the final extension, which connects Gyirong and Kathmandu, will commence.

What Documents are Needed for a Lhasa to Kathmandu Journey

First of all, you need to obtain a Chinese Visa and a Tibet Travel Permit to enter Tibet. If you are from one of the countries that qualifies for visa-free entry to China, then you only need the Tibet Travel Permit.

Then during your journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu, you will also need to obtain an Aliens’ Travel Permit when you visit Mount Everest and the border region.

Also, whether you take a flight or travel overland to Kathmandu from Lhasa, you will need the Nepal Visa, which can be obtained on arrival at the airport or border crossing.

As the leading Tibet tour operator with years of experience on Tibet and Nepal tours, we will help you handle all the necessary travel documents. Just contact us at least 20 days in advance to allow enough time for the permit application.

Enjoy a seamless Tibet-Nepal tour with our 7-day Lhasa to Kathmandu itinerary!

More Insider Tips for a Smooth Trip from Lhasa to Kathmandu

1. The best time to enjoy a Lhasa to Kathmandu tour is in April, May, September and October. During these months, the weather is stable, with clear views of Mount Everest. If you choose to travel overland, biking, or cycling, it is best to avoid the summer season (July and August), when heavy rainfall may damage the roads on the Nepalese side.

2. Always dress in layers to prepare for the changing weather. There is a significant temperature drop from day to night on the Tibetan Plateau, so bring a warm jacket even in summer for the high-altitude areas. Also, bring sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses to protect yourself from sunburn and dry weather.

3. To prevent severe altitude sickness, it is a good idea to spend a couple of days in Lhasa before heading to higher regions in western Tibet. Avoid overexerting yourself, drink plenty of water, have a good rest, and avoid showering to reduce the risk of catching a cold. These measures can help you better adjust to the altitude.

Conclusion

Traveling from Lhasa to Kathmandu can be done in several ways, but based on our experience, the overland journey is the best option for most tourists. It is a rewarding journey that takes you through various top attractions of Tibet, including the majestic Mount Everest. While if you are short on time, taking a flight is a quicker alternative.

No matter which way you choose, you will need to obtain the required travel documents. Packing properly and choosing the best travel time will also help for a more comfortable journey. If you still have questions, feel free to contact us or book your tour with us today!