Recently, many travelers have asked me about the Nechung-Lizi Port, and if they can enter Tibet or Nepal via this border. Some travel agencies are all hyped about Lizi Port, claiming tourists can waltz in and out for a scenic Nepal-Tibet tour via Mustang. But guess what? That’s a bit misleading! Well, let me give you the lowdown on the latest info about entering Tibet from Nepal through the Lizi Port – it’s a bit of a rollercoaster!

Here’s the real deal:

China has decided to reopen the Korala border point for both trade and travel movements from Monday onwards after a hiatus of four years since it was closed. Korala in Mustang is the 4th border point that Beijing has reopened after the Rasuwa-Kerung, Tatopani-Khasa, and Yari (Humla)-Purang.

Nepal shares a 1,400-km-long border with Tibet along the Himalayan range. China allows trade and transit through six border points—Tatopani-Khasa, Rasuwa-Kerung, Yari (Humla)-Purang, Olangchung Gola-Riwu, Kimathanka-Riwu and Nechung (Mustang)-Lizi—for bilateral trade with Nepal.

📍 The Lizi Port handles both passenger and freight transport. But to enter the Mustang region of Nepal, you have to snag a special permit from the Nepalese government – a cool $500, plus 13% tax. Yeah, not exactly a budget-friendly stroll.

📍 Getting this permit is no cakewalk. You’ll need your passport and a pilgrimage to the immigration office in Kathmandu. And only a handful of travel agencies are qualified to handle this special permit application.

📍 Security is tight in Mustang. Fake permits or trying to sneak in without one? Say hello to fines and possibly a cozy cell.

📍 On the Nepalese side, if you venture into Mustang, foreigners can only go as far as the border checkpoint, 14 kilometers from the Tibet border. However, locals get the VIP treatment and can stroll right up to the border.

📍 The port of “dual-use for goods and people,” it’s mainly for local traders and border residents with a nifty border pass. So, nope, tourists strolling in and out? It’s not happening yet!

🚙 If you want to do a self-drive tour, Zangmu Port only allows a one-way trip from Nepal to Tibet – road condition from Kathmandu via this border is not too shabby (see the 1st picture). But Gyirong Port is the real MVP for two-way Nepal/Tibet action, even though the road is like a mudslide disco during the rainy season. Better pack your rain boots!

🚌 The Gyirong to Kathmandu stretch is 130 kilometers, with a rough 45 kilometers of truly rough road. After that, it’s a mix of good and bad roads. If you’re in a beast of an off-road vehicle, it’s an 8-9 hour joyride. But beware – bad planning might leave you with a busted chassis and a hot engine, not to mention a two-day road trip.

Now, let’s break down the road trip from Nepal to Tibet into four legs:

1️⃣ Kathmandu to Gyirong Port: If you opt for public transport, grab your ticket at the Kathmandu bus station before 6 am (1000 Nepali Rupees). With a bit of luck, you’ll hit the immigration office around 3 pm (or stay overnight if you’re not Speedy Gonzales). Expect a quick check of your docs.

2️⃣ Gyirong Port to Gyirong Town: A 15-minute stroll or a quick 3-minute ride (definitely opt for the ride!). If the road’s a nightmare, you might risk missing customs closure. After clearing customs, your clock magically jumps to over 5 pm Tibetan time. Plan accordingly including passport, China visa, and Tibet travel permit – they might poke through your luggage, so keep the fresh produce out.

3️⃣ Gyirong Town to Shigatse: Your guide and driver will whisk you away to Gyirong Town. A 40-minute drive lands you in Gyirong Town, where you’ll crash for the night.

4️⃣ Shigatse to Lhasa: An early start from Gyirong Town, and by around 8 pm, you’ll roll into Lhasa. Expect a 4-hour journey.

So, if you’re torn between flying in and out of Tibet or taking the scenic route, my vote? Plane! But hey, if you’re feeling adventurous and want a taste of the Himalayas, the land route is doable. Just watch out for the nail-biting, bumpy, and sometimes perilous roads from Nepal to the immigration office. It’s a mountainous ride, with rocks occasionally playing hopscotch from the hills (see the 2-9 pics revealing the truly challenging road conditions from Nepal to Gyirong Port!). Two days on a bus? That’s a serious energy drain. Consider hooking up with a travel agency for a comfy SUV – saves time and nerves.

Do you have questions or need more deets? Drop a line below or hit us up 📭directly. We’re here for the scoop! Cheers to your epic adventure! 🌍