Traveling from Kathmandu to Lhasa by air is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to enter Tibet. The flight operates four times a week and takes just about 1.5 hours for a non-stop journey. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning aerial views of the majestic Himalayas.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about Kathmandu to Lhasa flight. Read on to know the flight schedule, ticket prices, required documents, how to get to the airport for boarding, how to transfer to downtown Lhasa after arrival, and more. Get ready for a smooth and hassle-free flight journey from Nepal to Tibet!
Why Travel from Kathmandu to Lhasa by Air?
Currently, there are two ways to travel from Nepal to Tibet: overland or by air. For tourists who prefer not to spend much time on the road, flying is the fastest and most straightforward option. While the overland journey from Kathmandu to Lhasa can take several days, the flight only takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Besides, when taking a flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa, you will have a chance to enjoy the spectacular bird’s-eye views of the Himalayas. On clear days, you can catch a glimpse of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Qyu.
The Kathmandu to Lhasa flight flies across the Himalayas.Moreover, as the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu is well-connected by numerous international airlines, making it easy to reach from most parts of the world. Also, travelers from many countries can get a visa on arrival when entering Nepal. This makes it simple to fly into Kathmandu and then continue your flight journey to Lhasa.
Enjoy a hassle-free road trip from Kathmandu to Lhasa with us!
Kathmandu to Lhasa Flight Schedule: 2025 Updates
The non-stop flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa is currently operated by Himalaya Airlines and runs four times a week. It departs from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu at 8:30 a.m. every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. After about 1 hour and 20 minutes, it arrives at Lhasa Gonggar Airport at about 12:05 p.m. (local time).
| Flight No. & Route | Dep./Arr. | Duration | Frequency |
|---|
| H9974 - Lhasa to Kathmandu |
08:30/12:05 |
1h 20m (Nonstop) |
Mon, Wed,Thur, Fri |
| H9775 - Kathmandu to Lhasa |
13:15/12:35 |
1h 35m (Nonstop) |
Tues, Wed,Thur, Fri |
Please note that the flight schedule between Kathmandu and Lhasa may vary depending on seasonal demand and weather conditions. We recommend contacting us in advance to confirm the latest timetable before your trip.
Kathmandu to Lhasa Flight Cost: Is It Expensive? How to Book a Cheaper One?
Ticket prices for the Kathmandu to Lhasa flight can vary significantly depending on the season, but they are generally more expensive compared to flights to Tibet from mainland China. On average, a one-way ticket ranges from USD 350 to USD 500 for economy class.
To get a cheaper flight ticket, it is best to avoid the peak travel season in Tibet, which runs from May to October. During these months, prices tend to rise due to increased demand. Instead, plan you Tibet tour during the low season, such as winter months, when you’ll have a better chance to get discounted flights from Kathmandu to Lhasa.
You can enjoy discounted flights when visiting Tibet in winter.It’s also wise to book your flight in advance to save money. Generally, tickets booked about one month ahead tend to be much cheaper than those purchased closer to the departure date. So, once you’ve finalized your travel schedule, start searching for your flight.
What Documents are Required to Take the Kathmandu to Lhasa Flight?
Before you can travel from Nepal to Tibet by air, you need to prepare a Chinese Visa and a Tibet Travel Permit. The good news is that, if you are from a visa-visa countries for China, then you only need the Tibet Travel Permit.
You can obtain the Chinese Visa on your own in your home country or in a third country. Alternatively, you can apply for a Chinese Group Visa at the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. In this case, we will assist you with the application, as individual applications of the group visa are not accepted. Just make sure to arrive in Kathmandu at least 5 days before your flight to allow time for the process.
As for the Tibet Travel Permit, we will also handle it on your behalf through a simple process. Just book your Tibet tour with us about one month in advance, and we will take care of the rest procedures.
If you are going to visit areas like Everest Base Camp or Mount Kailash after entering Tibet, additional permits such as Aliens’ Travel Permit and Military Permit are also required. Don’t worry - we will arrange all these documents for you to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
We will arrange all the Tibet travel documents for your Tibet and Nepal tour!
Where is Kathmandu Airport and How to Get There for Boarding?
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) is the primary airport in Nepal, located about 6 kilometers east of central Kathmandu. It is one of the three international airports in Nepal, and serves as the starting point for flights to Lhasa.
To reach the airport, taking a taxi from your hotel is the most convenient option, especially if you have heavy luggage. The ride typically takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs between 200 and 400 Nepalese Rupees. There are also airport shuttle buses available for transfers between downtown Kathmandu and the airport.
Whichever mode of transport you choose, it’s advisable to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight to allow enough time for check-in and security procedures.
The flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa leaves from Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM).Where is Lhasa Airport and How to Transfer to Downtown after Arrival?
Flights from Kathmandu land at Lhasa Gonggar Airport, located about 60 kilometers southwest of Lhasa downtown. The drive from the airport to the city generally takes between 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the traffic. Along the way, you will enjoy the scenic views of the Yarlung Tsangpo River.
The most convenient way to get to downtown Lhasa is by using our free airport transfer service. As long as you have booked your Tibet tour with us, you will be greeted at the airport by our local guide, who will escort you to your hotel in a private and comfortable vehicle.
We will pick you up at the Lhasa Airport upon your arrival.Alternatively, you can take a taxi or Didi (Chinese version of Uber) to get to your hotel. Taxi fares generally range from 150 to 250 CNY, depending on the season and traffic. Taxis are available right outside the airport, and you usually won’t have to wait long.
For a more budget-friendly option, there are also airport shuttle buses between the Lhasa Airport and downtown. The fare is only 30 CNY per person, and buses are scheduled according to major flight arrivals. The shuttle bus drops passengers off at the Civil Aviation Bureau building, located about 1.1 kilometers east of the Potala Palace.
Join our classic Lhasa to Kathmandu tour for a smooth experience!
Conclusion
Compared to travelling from Kathmandu to Lhasa by overland, taking a flight is faster and especially suitable for those with limited time. With four departures each week, the flight takes only about 1.5 hours, allowing you to quickly arrive in Lhasa and start your dream Tibet adventure. You’ll also enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas peaks from the airplane.
As the leading Tibet tour operator with offices in both Kathmandu and Lhasa, we are here to ensure your flight journey is smooth and worry-free. We can help you handle your flight booking, travel permit, airport transfer, as well as arrange your Tibet tour. Feel free to contact us or book your tour with us today!
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