Traveling to Tibet from Nepal

Tibet, the "Roof of the World," is a dream destination for many travelers. Since Nepal shares a border with Tibet, it's a common route for visitors. However, traveling to Tibet requires special permits and planning. Here’s everything you need to know.

Can You Travel to Tibet from Nepal?

  • Yes, but only with:
    • Tibet Travel Permit (arranged via a tour agency).
    • A Chinese Group Visa (if entering from Nepal).
    • A registered tour guide (independent travel is not allowed).
  • Important:
    • You cannot travel solo—Tibet requires a guided tour.
    • Nepal is one of the few countries where you can get a Tibet visa on arrival (but only through a tour operator).

How to Get to Tibet from Nepal?

1. By Flight: Kathmandu (KTM) to Lhasa (LXA)

  • Airlines: Sichuan Airlines, China Eastern, Tibet Airlines
  • Flight Time: ~1.5 hours
  • Cost: $200-$400 (round-trip)
  • Pros: Fastest way, stunning Himalayan views
  • Cons: Risk of altitude sickness (Lhasa is at 3,650m)

2. By Overland: Kathmandu to Lhasa (Friendship Highway)

  • Route: Kathmandu to Kodari (Nepal-China border) to Zhangmu (Tibet) to Lhasa
  • Duration: 5-7 days (with stops for acclimatization)
  • Cost: $800-$1,500 (tour package including permits, transport, guide)
  • Pros: Scenic (Everest Base Camp, Yamdrok Lake), adventurous
  • Cons: Long journey, rough roads, strict checkpoints

Required Documents & Permits

  • 1 Tibet Travel Permit (TTB) - Issued by a Tibet tour agency
  • 2 Chinese Group Visa - Obtained in Kathmandu (via a tour operator)
  • 3 Alien's Travel Permit (ATP) - Needed for travel outside Lhasa
  • 4 Military Permit - Required for remote areas (Everest Base Camp, Mount Kailash)
  • Important Notes:
    • Your Nepal visa must be valid (multi-entry if returning)
    • Processing takes 7-15 days—plan ahead!

Best Time to Visit Tibet from Nepal

  • April-October: Best weather, clear skies
  • November-March: Extreme cold, some roads closed

Tibet Tour Options from Nepal

Most agencies in Kathmandu (Thamel area) offer:

  • Lhasa City Tour (4-5 days)
  • Everest Base Camp (North Side) Tour (8-10 days)
  • Mount Kailash & Lake Manasarovar Pilgrimage (15+ days)

Recommended Agencies:

  • Tibet Vista
  • Himalayan Glacier
  • Snow Lion Tours

Cost of Tibet Travel from Nepal

Expense Estimated Cost (USD)
Tibet Travel Permit + Visa $100-$200
Flight (KTM-LXA round-trip) $200-$400
Overland Tour (7-10 days) $800-$1,500
Accommodation & Meals $30-$50/day

Important Tips

  • Book with a registered agency (DIY travel is impossible)
  • Acclimatize properly (Lhasa is at 3,650m)
  • Carry extra passport photos for permits
  • Avoid political discussions (Tibet is sensitive)