Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
For
Chinese immigration
( 10am-5.30pm, sometimes closed 1.30-3.30pm)
and customs
you need to drive to the actual border at Kodari, around 8km below Zhāngmù. Your guide
and driver will drop you off or pick you up at Kodari, although taxis also do the run.
You will need to fill in an exit form and health declaration and you may be asked for
your travel permit. You will have to walk the last few metres over the Friendship Bridge.
Nepali visa for the same price as in Lhasa (US$25/40/100 for up to 15/30/90 days, or the
equivalent in rupees at a poor exchange rate), although it is sensible to check this in ad-
vance. You need one passport photo (or pay US$5 extra).
If you are coming from Nepal into Zhāngmù, you won't find Chinese immigration open
if you leave the Nepali side after 3.30pm. Note that Nepal is an odd 2¼ hours behind
Chinese time.
There are four daily buses between Kodari and Kathmandu (4½ hours), with a 1.30pm
express service. Otherwise jump a local bus to Barabise (three hours) and change there.
After 2pm your only option is to take a taxi for Rs 4500, or Rs 1500 per seat if shared.
Jeeps cost slightly more.
