Once the last helicopter shuttle has landed, the group's Nepali leader completes exit formalities with immigration at Hilsa. Porters or a small vehicle carry bags to the bridge. The group then walks across together, in the order of the Chinese visa list, with passports ready. On the far side, the Tibetan guide waits with vehicles.
Chinese officers check each passenger against the group visa, take biometric data where required and scan all luggage. Prohibited items include images or literature of the Dalai Lama, maps showing borders China disputes and drones. Puja items, rudraksha and personal medicines in original packs are normally fine. The process can take one to three hours.
After clearing immigration, clocks move forward 2 hours 15 minutes to Beijing time, which surprises many pilgrims. The drive to Purang takes about an hour. Border opening hours and procedures change; check current status before you travel.
Good for
- Pilgrims
- Groups
- First-timers
Questions travellers ask
Is the Hilsa border open for Indian pilgrims?
In recent seasons, Indian passport holders with a valid Chinese group visa and Tibet permit arranged through an approved agency have crossed at Hilsa. Rules for Indian nationals on the Nepal routes, including fees, age limits and where visas are processed, have changed several times since 2023. Check current status before you travel.
What time does the Hilsa border open?
Opening hours are set by the Nepali and Chinese authorities and usually cover the late morning and afternoon on the Tibetan side, in Beijing time. Our operations team times helicopter shuttles to match. Hours can change during the season, so check current status before you travel.
Do I need to walk at the Hilsa border?
Yes, a short walk across the bridge, usually a few hundred metres on level ground, with porters or a vehicle carrying bags. Seniors and anyone with mobility problems can be helped by staff. After immigration, vehicles drive the group to Purang.
