Sino-Nepal Friendship Bridge, International bridge in Kodari, Nepal and China.
The Sino-Nepal Friendship Bridge is a 45-meter concrete arch bridge spanning the Sun Kosi River, connecting Kodari in Nepal with Zhangmu in China at the international border. It links the Araniko Highway on the Nepalese side to China National Highway 318, serving as a major transport corridor between Kathmandu and major Chinese cities.
The bridge opened in 1964 as the first official border crossing between Nepal and China, establishing a significant diplomatic milestone. After suffering damage in the 2015 earthquake, it was completely reconstructed and reopened in 2019 with upgraded structural specifications.
Traders gather at both ends to exchange regional products like Tibetan wool, salt, tea, and medicinal herbs. This commerce reflects the everyday cross-border relationships that have developed between the communities on either side.
The bridge is relatively easy to access but can become difficult during winter months due to snow and ice on the mountain roads. Visit during the warmer months from May to October when conditions are most favorable for crossing and exploring the area.
The bridge allows direct contact between people from Himalayan communities on both sides and lets visitors move between two countries within minutes. This makes it an unusual place where national boundaries feel tangible yet easily crossed.
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