A major milestone for cross-border travel: Changmu Port in Tibet’s Shigatse region has recorded over 1 million passenger movements since its full reopening in September 2023. According to Nyalam County’s immigration authorities, the figure was reached by April 20, highlighting the port’s pivotal role as China’s primary overland link to Nepal and South Asia.
Historically a thriving trade nexus, the port suffered catastrophic damage in the 2015 Nepal earthquake, leading to halted customs operations. After years of repairs and phased cargo resumption, full operations resumed amid heightened demand. Passenger traffic has accelerated dramatically: 133,000+ in late 2023, soaring to 358,000+ in 2024, and exceeding 426,000 in the first part of 2025.
This impressive 20% average annual growth rate reflects combined efforts in physical rebuilding and streamlined border procedures. Officials note that innovations such as visa-free passages and digital entry systems have drawn travelers from more than 80 nations, enhancing international connectivity.
The center’s director emphasized, ‘These figures signal broader regional integration and openness.’ With infrastructure now state-of-the-art, Changmu is poised to further solidify its status as a Himalayan trade powerhouse, fostering economic ties and people-to-people exchanges between China and its southern neighbors.
