Nepal

Nepal Overview

Chinese Name: English IPA: Location: Population (city): Language: Zip code: Tel code: Time zone:

Traveling from Nepal to the main cities of China is relatively easy with various options for air travel, primarily through Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu, Nepal’s main international gateway. Direct flights to major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Lhasa are available, while other cities can be accessed through connecting flights.

Step 1: Departing from Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu

Direct Flights from Kathmandu to China

Kathmandu offers direct flights to several major cities in China:

• Kathmandu to Beijing (PEK) – Direct flights are available via Air China.
• Kathmandu to Shanghai (PVG) – Flights are operated by China Eastern Airlines.
• Kathmandu to Guangzhou (CAN) – China Southern Airlines provides direct flights.
• Kathmandu to Chengdu (CTU) – Sichuan Airlines operates direct flights.
• Kathmandu to Lhasa (LXA) – Direct flights to Lhasa are available with Air China.

Step 2: Connecting Flights to Other Cities in China

For cities that do not have direct flights from Kathmandu, you can connect through major Asian hubs. Some common connecting cities include:

• Bangkok (BKK) – Thai Airways and Singapore Airlines offer connections to cities like Xi’an, Chengdu, and Shanghai.
• Delhi (DEL) – Air India and China Eastern Airlines provide connections to Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.
• Doha (DOH) – Qatar Airways offers connections to cities such as Chengdu, Xi’an, and Beijing.

Example Connecting Routes:

• Kathmandu → Delhi → Xi’an
• Kathmandu → Doha → Chengdu
• Kathmandu → Bangkok → Shanghai

Step 3: Arriving in China’s Main Cities

Once you land in one of China’s major airports, you will be well-connected to the rest of the country:

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

Beijing is China’s political, cultural, and historical center, with major attractions like the Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

Shanghai is China’s economic powerhouse, famous for its modern skyline, the Bund, Shanghai Tower, and Yu Garden.

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)

Guangzhou is a vibrant southern city, offering attractions such as the Canton Tower and traditional Cantonese cuisine.

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU)

Chengdu is known for being the gateway to Tibet and home to the famous Giant Panda Breeding Research Base.

Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA)

Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, offers breathtaking views and sacred sites like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple.

Step 4: Domestic Transportation in China

Once in China, there are several ways to travel between cities:

Domestic Flights

If you’re visiting other cities in China, domestic flights are the fastest option. Airlines like Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and Sichuan Airlines offer flights to most major cities.

High-Speed Trains

China has an extensive high-speed rail network connecting major cities. For example:

• Beijing to Shanghai (Approx. 4.5 hours)
• Shanghai to Chengdu (Approx. 10 hours)
• Beijing to Xi’an (Approx. 5 hours)

Local Transportation

Once in a city, you’ll find metro systems, buses, and taxis to get around. Many major cities have subways that are convenient for tourists.

Step 5: Popular Cities to Visit in China

Beijing

• Attractions: Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven.
• Travel Tip: Spend at least 3-4 days in Beijing to see its rich historical sites and explore its culture.

Shanghai

• Attractions: The Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower, Nanjing Road.
• Travel Tip: Shanghai is a blend of modern and traditional architecture, so explore both the historical parts of the city and the vibrant modern districts.

Guangzhou

• Attractions: Canton Tower, Cantonese Cuisine, Chen Clan Ancestral Hall.
• Travel Tip: Visit Guangzhou to enjoy delicious dim sum and explore its rich cultural heritage.

Chengdu

• Attractions: Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Sichuan Cuisine, Wuhou Shrine.
• Travel Tip: Chengdu is known for its spicy Sichuan cuisine and panda-related attractions, so make sure to experience both.

Lhasa

• Attractions: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street.
• Travel Tip: Lhasa is a spiritual destination, so spend some time acclimatizing to the altitude before exploring its cultural landmarks.

Step 6: China Visa for Nepalese Citizens

Nepali passport holders need to apply for a Chinese tourist visa (L visa). The steps include:

1. Visa Application Form: Complete the visa application form available online or from the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC).
2. Required Documents: These include your valid passport (with at least 6 months validity), passport-sized photographs, flight and hotel bookings, and proof of financial stability.
3. Visa Fees: Visa fees vary, so check with the nearest Chinese Embassy or consulate.
4. Processing Time: Visa processing typically takes 4-5 business days, so apply well in advance.

Distances from Kathmandu to China’s Main Cities

Tour Packages from Nepal to China

Several travel agencies offer China tour packages for travelers from Nepal, which can include a variety of destinations such as Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Lhasa. Some popular tour packages are:

• 8 Days Beijing-Xian-Shanghai Tour
• 10 Days Tibet and Lhasa Tour
• 12 Days Beijing-Xian-Guilin-Shanghai Tour
• 14 Days China Classic Tour with Yangtze River Cruise

Popular Tour Operators:

• Trekking Team Nepal
• China Highlights
• Nepal Tours
• Yunnan Exploration

These agencies typically offer guided tours with accommodation, transportation, and sightseeing.

Traveling from Nepal to China is simple with direct flights from Kathmandu to several cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Lhasa, and Guangzhou. You can also connect to other cities in China via connecting flights through major hubs like Delhi, Bangkok, and Doha. Once in China, domestic flights and high-speed trains will help you navigate between cities. Don’t forget to apply for your Chinese visa in advance, and consider booking a tour package for a more seamless experience.