The short answer
Kodari to Zhangmu (Khasa) was the classic route on the Araniko highway east of Kathmandu, with the Friendship Bridge at the border. It was heavily damaged in the 2015 earthquake and has been closed or restricted to tourists at various times since.
Do not plan around Kodari unless your operator can confirm it is running for your dates and nationality. If it is closed, the Kerung route is the normal replacement, and the rest of the journey beyond the border is similar.
Key facts
- Road
- Araniko highway
- Border
- Kodari and Friendship Bridge
- Status
- Check each year
- Alternative
- Kerung
How it works
- Ask about statusIs it open for tourists?
- Get a backup routeKerung.
- Check permitsTibet group permit.
- Confirm refund termsIf the border closes.
A route with a history
For many years, the Araniko highway from Kathmandu to Kodari and across the Friendship Bridge to Zhangmu was a main road link between Nepal and Tibet. Earthquake damage and changing border policies have meant that tourist access has been limited or closed at various times.
Because the situation can change, treat any plan involving Kodari with caution and confirm its status with your operator before you commit.
Protecting your plans
Ask for a written backup route, such as Kerung, and check what happens to your payment if the border is not open. Read the cancellation terms before paying a deposit.
Be flexible and keep your dates open if possible. A good operator will tell you honestly what is possible and give you options rather than promises.
Insider tip
Ask for a Kerung backup plan in writing.
Avoid this
Do not pay a non-refundable deposit for a Kodari departure without confirmation.
Related questions
Is Kodari open now?
Check with your operator; status has changed over the years.
Is Zhangmu the same as Khasa?
Yes, Khasa is the Chinese name.
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