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Kathmandu Overview

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Traveling from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, to major cities in China is relatively straightforward, as Kathmandu has direct flight connections to various cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Lhasa, and Chengdu. Additionally, there are options for connecting flights via other major Asian hubs.

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

Direct Flights from Kathmandu to China

Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) is the primary gateway for flights from Nepal to China. The following cities in China are directly connected to Kathmandu:

Kathmandu to Beijing (PEK) – Direct flights are operated by Air China.
Kathmandu to Shanghai (PVG) – Direct flights are available through China Eastern Airlines.
Kathmandu to Guangzhou (CAN) – China Southern Airlines offers direct flights.
Kathmandu to Chengdu (CTU) – Direct flights are available via Sichuan Airlines.
Kathmandu to Lhasa (LXA) – Air China operates flights between Kathmandu and Lhasa, a major destination for travelers heading to Tibet.

Step 2: Connecting Flights to Other Cities in China

For cities not directly accessible from Kathmandu, you may need to connect through other major hubs in Asia. Some popular connecting cities include:

Bangkok (BKK) – With airlines like Thai Airways or Singapore Airlines, you can fly to cities such as Xi’an, Chengdu, or Shanghai.
Doha (DOH) – Qatar Airways offers connecting flights to Chengdu, Xi’an, or Beijing.
Delhi (DEL) – Air India or China Eastern Airlines provide connecting flights to cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou.

Example Connecting Routes:

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

Step 3: Arriving in China’s Main Cities

Once you arrive in China, you will typically land in one of the following major cities:

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) – The main international airport in Beijing, serving as the hub for government, business, and tourism.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) – A key airport in China, serving the economic and commercial hub of Shanghai.
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) – The main airport in Guangzhou, located in southern China, offering access to the Pearl River Delta region.
Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) – A major airport in western China, known for its proximity to Tibet and the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base.
Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA) – The airport serving Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, ideal for travelers heading to the Tibetan Plateau.

Step 4: Domestic Transportation in China

Once in China, there are many ways to get around:

Domestic Flights

For travelers heading to other cities in China, domestic flights are fast and efficient. Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and Sichuan Airlines offer domestic flights that can take you from your arrival city to destinations like Xi’an, Chongqing, or Shenzhen.

High-Speed Trains

China’s high-speed rail system is one of the fastest in the world and connects most major cities. If you’re traveling between cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu, high-speed trains are a comfortable and efficient option.

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

Local Transportation

After arriving in your city, you can use local transportation such as:

Metro/Subway – Available in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, offering easy access to the city center and popular attractions.
Buses – Bus services are widespread and connect different areas of the city.
Taxis – Taxis are available, but be mindful that many drivers may not speak English. Using ride-hailing apps like Didi is a convenient option.

Step 5: Popular Cities to Visit in China

Beijing

Attractions: Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven.
Travel Tip: Spend 3-4 days in Beijing to visit its historical sites and enjoy the city’s cultural offerings.

Shanghai

Attractions: The Bund, Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden, Nanjing Road.
Travel Tip: Shanghai is known for its skyline and modernity. Be sure to explore both its historical sites and vibrant city center.

Guangzhou

Attractions: Canton Tower, Cantonese Cuisine, Chen Clan Ancestral Hall.
Travel Tip: Guangzhou is a great destination for food lovers, particularly those who want to experience authentic dim sum and Cantonese flavors.

Chengdu

Attractions: Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Wuhou Shrine, Sichuan Cuisine.
Travel Tip: Chengdu is the best place to see giant pandas and try the famous Sichuan hot pot.

Lhasa

Attractions: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street.
Travel Tip: Lhasa is the spiritual heart of Tibet, and visitors should be prepared for the high-altitude conditions.

Step 6: China Visa for Nepali Citizens

Nepali passport holders are required to apply for a tourist visa (L visa) to visit China. The process includes the following steps:

Complete the Application: Fill out the visa application form online or at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC).
Submit Required Documents: These include a valid passport (with at least six months’ validity), a passport-sized photo, flight and hotel bookings, and proof of financial stability.
Visa Fees: Visa fees will vary, so check with the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate.
Processing Time: Typically, visa processing takes 4-5 business days.

Make sure to apply well in advance, as processing times can vary.

Distances from Kathmandu to Main Cities in China

City	Distance (Miles)	Distance (Kilometers)	Flight Time (Hours)
Beijing	2,190 miles	3,525 km	5-6 hours
Shanghai	2,350 miles	3,780 km	5-6 hours
Guangzhou	2,440 miles	3,930 km	5-6 hours
Chengdu	1,820 miles	2,930 km	4-5 hours
Lhasa	360 miles	580 km	1 hour

Tour Packages from Kathmandu to China

Several travel agencies offer China tour packages that cater to travelers from Nepal, including visits to Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Lhasa, and other popular destinations. Some popular tour packages include: