G216 Road Closure Update: Kyirong Town to Kyirong Port (April–October 2025)
Travelers planning to enter Tibet via overland routes in 2025 should be aware of updated restrictions and road closures. The G216 road from Kyirong Town to Kyirong Port will have intermittent openings only due to infrastructure repair. This article answers key questions travelers have about how this affects Tibet tours, Mount Kailash pilgrimages, and overland journeys from Nepal.
How Many Days Will Kyirong Port Remain Closed?
The road section will be under controlled access from April 15 to October 31, 2025 — approximately 200 days. Outside the permitted time slots, the road is completely closed for both entry and exit.
Why Is the Road from Kyirong Town to Kyirong Port Closed?
The closure is due to massive damage from mountain torrents that struck the region on September 27, 2024. The terrain is being stabilized and repaired to ensure long-term safety for travelers.
Is There an Alternative Route to Mount Kailash?
Currently, Kyirong is the only overland entry point from Nepal to reach Mount Kailash. The Simikot-Hilsa route remains closed for foreigners due to cross-border restrictions. The only alternative is to fly into Lhasa and continue the journey by road.
Can I Still Reach Lhasa if Kyirong Port Is Closed?
Yes, you can reach Lhasa by flight from Kathmandu via Chengdu or other Chinese cities. Dream Tibet Travel can help you arrange the necessary Tibet Group Visa and travel permits in advance.
What is Official Closure Duration and Schedule?
- The intermittent control of traffic has been outlined clearly by the Kyirong Port Public Security Bureau as follows:
- Closure Period: April 15 to October 31, 2025
- Intermittent Access Schedule:
- Mondays & Fridays: Open from 12:30 PM to 5:00 PM
- Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays & Sundays: Open from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM
- Outside of these windows, the road is fully closed. No vehicle movement is permitted.
Can We Travel at Night from Kyirong Border?
No. Night travel is strictly prohibited. Travel is only permitted during designated hours:
Do I Need a Guide to Enter Tibet from Kyirong Border?
Yes. A Tibet Tourism-licensed guide is mandatory for all foreign travelers. Independent travel is not allowed. Your guide will meet you at the border and assist throughout your Tibet journey.
Is There a Way to Avoid Road Closures Near Kyirong?
There is no alternative detour once you are near Kyirong Port. You must plan your border crossing strictly according to the authorized open schedule. We recommend arriving early and waiting at the checkpoint if needed.
Are the Road Closure Rules Strictly Enforced?
Yes. Local authorities and border police strictly enforce these timings. Vehicles caught attempting unauthorized passage are turned back or penalized. Always comply with police instructions.
When Will the Local Authorities Reopen the Route?
While the road is not permanently closed, it only opens during the scheduled hours. Full day access may resume after October 31, 2025, depending on the completion of repairs and safety assessments.
What Are the Normal Opening Hours of Kyirong Border?
Regular immigration hours at Kyirong Border are generally: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (China/Tibet time) However, during construction, travelers must also consider G216 road opening hours to align crossing times accordingly.
Is There Any Problem at Rasuwagadhi Border (Nepal Side)?
As of now, there are no major issues reported on the Nepal side. Rasuwagadhi border remains functional, but weather and seasonal conditions may affect accessibility. Always check with your tour operator in advance.
What is the time different between Tibet and Nepal Border?
Tibet authorities operate in Center Beijing Time, not local solar time. The time different beetween Tibet and Nepal is 2 hours and 15 minutes ahead of Nepal Time. When it's 10:00 AM in Nepal, it’s 12:15 PM in Tibet. This is important when you are planning to crossings at Kyirong/Rasuwagadhi.
Do I Need a Langtang National Park Permit to Cross Kyirong Border?
Yes. If you’re traveling from Kathmandu to Rasuwagadhi by road via Syabrubesi, you must pass through Langtang National Park. A park entry permit is required and will be checked at the checkpoint.
Guidelines for Safe Travel to Tibet by Overland
All travelers are required to:
- Comply with local police and border security instructions
- Travel only during permitted hours
- Avoid attempting unauthorized crossings
- Maintain orderly behavior during opening hours to ensure smooth traffic
Travel Tips from Dream Tibet Travel
- Book with an experienced Tibet travel agency that can handle border logistics, permits, and real-time updates.
- Carry extra snacks, warm clothes, and enough water during road waits
- Follow police and military instructions strictly
- Coordinate your itinerary with the G216 schedule in mind.
- Be flexible — delays due to weather or local changes are common
- Leave buffer days if you're joining a group tour or planning visa extensions
- Contact Dream Tibet Travel for updated advice and alternative tour options
Final Advice for your travel to Tibet
While the road closure causes some inconvenience, with careful planning and guidance, your journey to Tibet and Mount Kailash can still be rewarding. Trust experienced professionals to handle your Tibet visa, Tibet permits, guides, and logistics.
Need assistance to get the Tibet Permit and Visa? Contact Dream Tibet Travel & Tours ( Info@dreamtibet.com/ WhatsApp : +977 98511 62422) – Your trusted partner for Tibet overland tours, Kailash Manasarover yatra, and Tibet permit processing from Kathmandu.
