+9779851068290 sales@nepalhiking.com
+9779851068290 sales@nepalhiking.com

Kathmandu to Lhasa Flight 2025 โ€“ Timings, Fares and Permits


โœˆ๏ธ Kathmandu to Lhasa Flight Guide (2025)

If youโ€™re flying to Tibet, Kathmanduโ€™s 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 birdโ€™s-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.


๐Ÿ“‹ 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.


๐Ÿ•“ 2025 Kathmanduโ€“Lhasa Flight: Timings & Fare Guide

โœˆ๏ธ Outbound: Kathmandu โ†’ Lhasa

Flight No.Departure – ArrivalDurationDaysPrice (USD)
H9-774 (Janโ€“Mar)08:00โ€“12:152 hrsMon/Wed/Fri$486
H9-774 (Aprโ€“Oct)08:30โ€“12:051 hr 20 minsMon/Wed/Thu/Fri$486

โœˆ๏ธ Return: Lhasa โ†’ Kathmandu

Flight No.Departure – ArrivalDurationDaysPrice (USD)
H9-775 (Janโ€“Mar)13:00โ€“12:151 hr 40 minsMon/Wed/Fri$339
H9-775 (Aprโ€“Oct)13:15โ€“12:351 hr 35 minsTue/Wed/Thu/Fri$339

๐ŸŽŸ How to Find Discounted Kathmandu to Lhasa Flights

Flying into Lhasa isnโ€™t the cheapest option, but you can save with two proven strategies:

  1. Book Early โ€“ Reserving your ticket at least 3โ€“4 weeks in advance typically results in lower prices.
  2. Travel During Low Season โ€“ Airfares drop between November and April, outside of Tibetโ€™s peak tourism season.

๐Ÿ“„ 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.


๐Ÿž Why Choose the Flight Overland Route?

Overland travel from Kathmandu to Lhasa via Kerong Border an option, but it takes 3โ€“4 days and involves rough terrain. Flying is much faster and smoother, especially if you want to maximize your time exploring Tibet.


๐Ÿš• 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.


๐ŸŒ„ 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.


โœ… 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.


โ“FAQs 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, youโ€™ll 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 itโ€™ll cost you more time

About the author

He loves travelling, hiking, trekking and writing travel articles of his interest.

Proceed Booking