Traveling overland from Lhasa to Kathmandu is an exciting adventure through one of the most unique regions of the world. Whether you’re going overland by bus, bike, or motorcycle, knowing the road conditions in advance will help you plan the best travel route. A little advanced preparation will help keep you safe. Keep reading for the latest information on Lhasa to Kathmandu road conditions.

Facts on Distance and Overland Route of the Classic Lhasa to Kathmandu Road or Sino-Nepal Friendship Hwy

The 1,120km Lhasa to Kathmandu overland route is divided into four sections. Lhasa to Shigatse is the first short section along the Friendship Highway from Lhasa to Nepal. It is 271km from the capital of Tibet to the second-largest city along National Highway G318.

The route continues to follow the highway on the second section from Shigatse to Tingri but then turns south onto ZhuFeng Road to get to Everest Base Camp. It’s only a 235km straight-line distance from Shigatse to EBC, but the road there is 342km.

EBC is the biggest highlight of the trip. The next stage is descending to the Gyirong border. You need to get back to the Friendship Highway and then to National Road S214 to get to the border with Nepal. The total distance is 330km. Crossing into Nepal will take you to Rasuwa Gadhi. From there, Kathmandu is around 160km away.

Lhasa to kathmandu overland map.

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The Road Condition from Lhasa to Shigatse: Perfect Paved Road

Lhasa to Shigatse is the easiest part of the overland journey. The Friendship Highway, National Highway G318, is one of the most driven roads in Tibet. It travels along the Kyi Chu Valley and then turns west, following the Yarlung Tasngbo River through Nyemo County and Rinbung County to Shigatse. Tours often take a side road that turns off the highway at Quxu to head southwest and cross Gambala Pass (4,790m) for the incredible views of Lake Yamdrok.

The Friendship Highway is a modern, well-maintained road with perfect conditions for overland travel. Despite being one of the most traveled roads in Tibet, traffic is very sparse. Cyclists and motorbike riders can feel at ease on the open road.

Great road condition from Lhasa to kahtmandu and the travelers are having a great time.

Travel Tips:
- Check your bike or motorcycle carefully before starting the journey. Make sure the wheels, brakes, and signals are in good working order. Check out the popular Tibet bike tours.
- Be mindful while riding. It can be easy to get distracted on long, straight stretches and be surprised by upcoming turns.

The Road Condition from Shigatse to EBC: Great Paved Road Leading to EBC

The first part of the Shigatse to EBC section continues to follow the modern G318 Highway. After turning onto the smaller Zhufeng road, conditions vary along the route.

Much of the road has been upgraded to asphalt but will encounter some sections of gravel roads. Three high-altitude passes lie along this route. Tsola Pass (4,600m), Gyatsola Pass (4,528m), and Gawu La Pass (5,198m) provide increasingly breathtaking views before reaching EBC at 5,200m.

Most of the route is along modern roads. On the final stretch to EBC, gravel, and dust can be a little challenging if you’re not in a car. It’s well worth the effort, as the sight of approaching Everest is unforgettable.

Marvel at Mount Everest at Gawula Pass in Tibet.

Travel Tips:
- This section includes the highest altitudes of the tour. Pay close attention to signs of altitude sickness and inform your guide immediately if you start to feel uncomfortable.
- Bring some high-calorie snacks to keep your energy up while cycling.

The Road Condition from EBC to Gyirong Border: Expect Rollcaster Ride via Diverse Terrains & Bumpy Roads

Getting from EBC to the Gyirong border requires first traveling the 75km back along Zhufeng Road to get to the Friendship Highway. The highway takes you to Nyalam County, where it turns into National Road S214, which goes to the border. It’s a rollercoaster ride down to Gyirong. A rapid descent that includes soaring passes like Gontala Pass and Nyalam Tong La Pass overlooking Mount Shishapangma.

It’s a long stretch of modern roads. The asphalt roads make the stretch to the Sino-Nepal border convenient and safe. The higher oxygen levels as you approach Gyirong will help keep you alert.

The road conditions on the Tibetan side of the Gyirong border are good.

Travel Tips:
- The winding road in this section requires careful attention by cyclers and riders.
- Control your speed on any long descent.

The Road Conditions from Gyirong Border to Kathmandu: Final Treacherous Mountain Roads to Kathmandu

From Gyirong, you’ll head to the border and cross over to Rasuwa Gadhi. After getting your visa, Kathmandu is only 160km away.

On the Nepal side, road conditions vary. The views traveling through Langtang National Park are stunning, but there can be sections of muddy roads making driving bumpy. After getting out of the mountain region, the road is clean and well-paved all the way to Kathmandu.

Road condition after exiting Tibet from Gyirong Border.

Travel Tips:
- On the cycling tour, you will transfer to a jeep from the border to Kathmandu.
- In rainy conditions, be very careful when riding a motorbike through Langtang National Park. The roads can be slippery.

Avoid the Monsoon Season for the Best Lhasa to Kathmandu Road Conditions

The summer monsoon season is best to avoid, particularly if traveling by bike or motorcycle. In Tibet, July and August are the monsoon season. Rain is more frequent but the constant downpours are rare. Ascending and descending high passes on bikes or motorcycles presents more challenges. Nepal’s monsoon season can last from June until September. In the lower regions of the Kathmandu Valley, the roads can be muddy and dangerous.

Winter is also not an ideal season. Besides being exposed to the elements when cycling or riding, the roads between Shigatse and Gyirong can be icy and difficult to traverse. High-altitude passes can get a considerable amount of snow. Driving in a car or bus is still possible.

Spring and autumn are the best times for an overland trip. Weather conditions are warm and sunny. Roads will be dry and in the best condition for traveling.

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Conclusion

Road conditions are continually improving throughout Tibet, and the local infrastructure is being upgraded. It’s already possible to have a safe and exciting overland journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu via EBC, and it will only get better in the future. There’s no need to wait, though. Contact us for expert and free inquiry now.