Getting to Tibet from Kathmandu by Bus: What to Expect
Buses from Kathmandu to the China's border run daily, and the views? Absolutely mind-blowing. Picture snow-capped Himalayan peaks peeking through clouds, deep gorges carved by rushing rivers, and tiny mountain villages clinging to slopes—this route is a visual feast for anyone who loves raw, unfiltered nature.
But here's the reality check: That bus can only take you as far as the border. It won't magically whisk you into Tibet. To cross into China, you'll need a whole stack of paperwork sorted before you even step on that bus. No shortcuts, no last-minute fixes—this is one journey where preparation isn't just smart, it's mandatory.
The "NO" List: What You Can't Do
Let's cut through the confusion with a clear list of what's not allowed:
No direct cross-border buses: Crossing the border requires some formalities.
No on-the-spot visas: If you're entering Tibet from Nepal, you need a Chinese Group Visa, and this must be arranged in Kathmandu ahead of time.
No same-day Tibet Travel Permits: The golden ticket—your Tibet Travel Permit—takes 8–9 business days to process. Showing up at the border and asking for one? Nope, won't happen.
No solo trips: Tibet isn't a place for free-spirited wanderers. Foreign visitors must be with a licensed guide from start to finish, which means you need to book a Tibet tour package from a Chinese travel agency in advance.
The Right Way: A Step-by-Step Timeline
Don't stress—getting this right is totally doable if you plan ahead. Here's how:
Step 1: Book 1 month early
Pick a reputable Tibet travel agency. They'll handle the big stuff: your Tibet Travel Permit, a guide, transport, and hotels. Note that only registered agencies can get that permit.
Step 2: Arrive in Kathmandu 4–5 days before your trip starts
Your agency will help you apply for that Chinese Group Visa here.
Step 3: Border day
Tours like our "8 Days Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland with EBC" include door-to-door transport from Kathmandu. No fumbling with local buses! Our staff will escort you from Kathmandu to Tibet.
What If You Decide "Last Minute"?
Show up at the border without permits? Even the best agencies can't fast-track the 8–9 day permit process. You'll end up waiting 10+ days, but you can totally avoid this kind of thing from happening.
Conclusion
During this journey, you'll jump from 1,400m (Kathmandu) to 2,800m+ (Gyirong) in a day. Pack glucose tablets and altitude meds—your head will thank you. Trust us—planning ahead is how you turn "what if" into "I did it."
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35 Comment ON "Getting to Tibet from Kathmandu by Bus: What to Expect"
Asked by Liliana Me** from N/A
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash