How to Travel from Bhutan to Tibet by Flight
Let us get straight to the point. There are no direct flights operating between Bhutan and Tibet at the moment. The border between these two neighbors, while historically a route for traders and travelers, remains closed for overland crossing. This means that any journey taking you from the paradise of Bhutan to the high plains of Tibet will involve a transit point. Fortunately, the route is well established and quite scenic. The most common and practical way to make this connection is to fly from Bhutan out to Kathmandu, Nepal, and then catch a connecting flight from Kathmandu into Lhasa. This might sound like a detour, but the experience of flying into Tibet over the Himalayas, with Mount Everest looming large outside your window, is absolutely worth the extra step.
Major Airlines Flying You from Paro to Kathmandu
Your journey begins at Paro International Airport, which is the only international gateway in Bhutan. From here, you have two reliable options for getting to Kathmandu. Both are Bhutanese carriers, and they offer a comfortable and short hop across the mountains.
Druk Air is the national airline of Bhutan and the one most travelers are familiar with. They operate daily flights from Paro to Kathmandu, and on most days they even run two flights. The journey takes about an hour and fifteen minutes, just enough time to enjoy a cup of Bhutanese tea and watch the Himalayas pass by. Fares are reasonable, especially if you book in advance, and they vary depending on the season. Bhutan Airlines is the other option, a private carrier that offers service a few times a week, typically on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Their flight times are usually mid-morning, which works well if you have a late checkout from your hotel in Paro or Thimphu. Both airlines provide a similar level of service, so your choice may simply come down to which schedule fits your itinerary better.
Connecting from Kathmandu to Lhasa with Himalayan Views
Once you land in Kathmandu, you have made it to the only place in the world that offers direct international flights into Tibet. The Tribhuvan International Airport, located just a few kilometers from the bustling heart of Kathmandu, serves as the launchpad for your final leg into Lhasa. Several airlines operate this route, and the flight itself is one of the most spectacular you will ever take.
Air China, Sichuan Airlines, and Tibet Airlines all run flights from Kathmandu to Lhasa Gonggar International Airport. These flights usually depart in the morning, when weather conditions are most favorable for crossing the Himalayas. The flight time is around an hour and a half, and the plane flies directly over the Himalayan range, and if you secure a window seat on the left side of the aircraft, you will be treated to an uninterrupted view of Mount Everest and its neighboring peaks.
Conclusion
While the transport methods introduced above are the most convenient and fastest routes from Bhutan to Tibet, travelers with unhurried itineraries can opt for a slightly roundabout alternative. You can transfer to Tibet via other major Chinese gateway cities, which not only offers greater flexibility for your travel planning, but also grants you a wonderful chance to experience the diverse local customs, authentic lifestyles and unique cultural charms of different regions in China, enriching your entire trip with extra memorable moments.
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37 Comment ON "How to Travel from Bhutan to Tibet by Flight"
Asked by An** from N/A
Best time to travel for the Linka festival
Hey, I'm looking to travel to the Linka festival with my partner. When is the best time to go this year? Thanks!
Asked by Goldliam Soo** from N/A
lm from nyc in the usa how much is your 13 day Mt Kai lash tour in September or June
Hi, lm from nyc in the usa how much is your 13 day Mt Kai lash tour in September or June? And approximately how much would would the airfare be round trip? Thank you
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
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