Direct flights to Lhasa from Kathmandu Resume
20 Dec 2023 Umesh Paneru
Updated 5th April, 2024:
Currently, there is one direct flight available to Lhasa from Kathmandu (or vice versa) which operates 3 flights per week (every Monday, Wednesday & Friday) from April 17, 2024 by Himalaya Airlines. In the alternatives, Travelers have two options at present either taking a flight to Kathmandu/Lhasa via Chengdu or an additional 4-day long overland tour. During an overland tour, Rongbuk Monastery/EBC with a view of Mount Everest, Shigatse, Gyantse, etc., are prime attractions.
Good News!! For all travelers seeking to travel to Lhasa from Kathmandu, direct flights to Lhasa from Kathmandu resume. Himalayan Airlines will operate direct flights to Lhasa from Kathmandu. There was no direct flight to Lhasa currently. Due to no flights to Lhasa post-Covid, many travelers were unable to travel to Lhasa, and an overland Lhasa tour was the only option.
Himalayan Airlines has announced direct flights between Kathmandu and Lhasa operating from December 28, 2023. It has set its initial airfare at USD 395. The flight duration is 1 hour and 35 minutes. Himalayan Airlines will begin its first two flights on Thursday. The Nepal Civil Aviation Authority has permitted Himalayan Airlines to fly every Monday.
As of now, the airline will operate its Kathmandu and Lhasa flights once a week. Himalayan Airlines proposes to increase the number of flights with a growth in passenger demand. This will lead to a reasonable flight charge and travelers can travel affordably.
Flight Schedule with local timings
| Destination | Effective Dates | Days | Departure (China time) | Arrival (Nepal time) |
| KTM-LXA | Dec 28, 2023 | Thu | 7:25 | 11:00 |
| LXA-KTM | Dec 28, 2023 | Thu | 12:00 | 11:25 |
| KTM-LXA | Jan 8- Nov 15, 2024 | Mon | 7:25 | 11:00 |
| LXA-KTM | Jan 8- Mar 25, 2024 | Mon | 12:00 | 11:25 |
Benefits of Direct Flights to Lhasa from Kathmandu
- Time-saving as no need to change planes.
- Travelers reach their destinations faster.
- More affordable and comfortable travel.
- Suitable for all age groups of travelers.
- Reduced stress as there is no rushing.
- Altitude Considerations reduce the risk of altitude-related health issues.
- Foster tourism, business, and cultural exchanges.
- All arrangements are on schedule, hence saving time.
- Simplified customs and immigration processes.
