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โ๏ธ Kathmandu to Lhasa Flight Guide (2025)
If youโre flying to Tibet, Kathmanduโs the only place with direct international flights to Lhasa, making it the best spot to start your journey. A flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa offers more than just convenience โ it treats travelers to a spectacular birdโs-eye view of the Himalayas, including the towering summit of Mt. Everest. Pro tip: Pick the left window seat for the best sky-high views.
๐ Overview of the Route
Currently, Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu is the only airport offering direct commercial flights to Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA). Now that Himalayan Airlines is back in the skies, you can catch flights a few times a week from January to October.
If you are traveling in a group, ensure you book your tickets together to process the China Group Tourist Visa, a requirement for foreign travelers entering Tibet from Nepal.
๐ 2025 KathmanduโLhasa Flight: Timings & Fare Guide
โ๏ธ Outbound: Kathmandu โ Lhasa
| Flight No. | Departure – Arrival | Duration | Days | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H9-774 (JanโMar) | 08:00โ12:15 | 2 hrs | Mon/Wed/Fri | $486 |
| H9-774 (AprโOct) | 08:30โ12:05 | 1 hr 20 mins | Mon/Wed/Thu/Fri | $486 |
โ๏ธ Return: Lhasa โ Kathmandu
| Flight No. | Departure – Arrival | Duration | Days | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H9-775 (JanโMar) | 13:00โ12:15 | 1 hr 40 mins | Mon/Wed/Fri | $339 |
| H9-775 (AprโOct) | 13:15โ12:35 | 1 hr 35 mins | Tue/Wed/Thu/Fri | $339 |
๐ How to Find Discounted Kathmandu to Lhasa Flights
Flying into Lhasa isnโt the cheapest option, but you can save with two proven strategies:
- Book Early โ Reserving your ticket at least 3โ4 weeks in advance typically results in lower prices.
- Travel During Low Season โ Airfares drop between November and April, outside of Tibetโs peak tourism season.
๐ Documents Required for Tibet Entry via Kathmandu
To enter Tibet from Nepal, travelers need:
- Group Chinese Tourist Visa:
Must be arranged in Kathmandu and processed with a minimum of 4 travelers. Takes 3-4 working days. - Tibet Travel Permit (TTP):
Issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. Travel agencies arrange this after your Tibet itinerary is confirmed. - Invitation Letter:
Required for your Group Visa. Handled by your travel agency.
Solo travelers must join a group to be eligible for the Group Visa.
๐ Why Choose the Flight Overland Route?
Overland travel from Kathmandu to Lhasa via Kerong Border an option, but it takes 3โ4 days and involves rough terrain. Flying is much faster and smoother, especially if you want to maximize your time exploring Tibet.
๐ Getting to Kathmandu Airport
Tribhuvan International Airport is just 6 km from downtown Kathmandu. Here are your options:
- Taxi: Expect to pay around 900-1000 NPR during the day; more at night. Negotiate fares beforehand.
- Shuttle Bus: Available ~300 meters from the airport gate. Not recommended if you have large luggage.
Leave at least 2.5 hours before your flight departure, considering city traffic and airport security.
๐ Scenic Bonus: Mt. Everest View from the Plane
One of the highlights of this flight is the aerial view of Mt. Everest. Clear weather offers postcard-worthy glimpses of the world’s highest peak. Choose your seat strategically to the left side of the plane when flying east toward Lhasa.
โ Conclusion
Flying from Kathmandu to Lhasa remains the fastest and most scenic way to reach Tibet. With regular flights, panoramic mountain views, and smoother travel logistics when booked through a local agency, air travel is an ideal choice. Make sure you secure the proper documentation early and travel with a reputable agency for a hassle-free entry into the Roof of the World.
โFAQs โ Kathmandu to Lhasa Flight
How long is the flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa?
Around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the airline schedule and weather conditions.
Can solo travelers get a Tibet visa from Kathmandu?
No. Group Chinese Visa requires at least 4 travelers traveling together.
When is the best time to fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa?
The dry season (April to October) is ideal for clear skies and Mt. Everest views. For cheaper tickets, consider November to April.
What documents are needed to fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa?
To visit Tibet, youโll require a Group Chinese Visa, a Tibet Entry Permit, and an invitation letter from an authorized Tibet travel agency.
Is it cheaper to fly or go overland to Tibet?
Traveling overland can save you money, but itโll cost you more time