How to Travel to Tibet from Kathmandu by Bus
If you happen to see a sign that reads "Direct Bus to Lhasa," that tempting promise is only half true: those buses never cross the border. Nepal's public buses stop at the Nepali side of the China-Nepal frontier, and that's where your self-guided journey ends. Why? Foreign travelers can't explore Tibet independently; your itinerary in Tibet must be arranged by a licensed Chinese travel agency, per local regulations.

The typical Nepali bus from Kathmandu to the border costs 1,500 to 2,000 Nepalese rupees, cramming 20 to 30 passengers into tight seats for a bumpy 8 to 10-hour ride. Even if you reach the border this way, you'll still need to present your Tibet Travel Permit, passport, and Chinese group visa—then switch to a Tibet-registered vehicle arranged by a Chinese agency to enter. Skip the hassle: our packages include door-to-door service, from handling permits to border transfers, ensuring compliance with all rules.

Our Border-Crossing Process: Smooth and Scenic
We simplify the journey. Our Kathmandu team escorts you from Kathmandu to a comfortable jeep, heading 130km to Rasuwa Gadi, a Nepali border town, over 7 hours. Overnight here to rest before the next day's crossing. Once in Tibet, we ease you into the high altitude with a stop in Gyirong Valley. Wander its suspension bridges, hike to Sherpa villages, and soak in the surreal mix of snow-capped peaks and dense forests—nature's perfect introduction to Tibet's beauty. Our local guides and drivers handle all logistics, so you only need to enjoy the view.

Conclusion
Don't leave permits to chance. The Tibet Travel Permit takes 8 to 9 business days to process, and arriving at the border without it means costly delays. There's no workaround—this document is mandatory. We offer flexibility: join a small group tour for a social vibe, or customize a private itinerary tailored to your interests, whether it's exploring Everest Base Camp or remote monasteries. Either way, we handle permits, transfers, and compliance, so you focus on the journey. From Kathmandu to Tibet, the magic lies in the details—and we've mastered them. Let us turn the border crossing from a chore into the start of your adventure.


35 Comment ON "How to Travel to Tibet from Kathmandu by Bus"
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