11 Days Nepal-Tibet-Nepal Motorcycle Tour from Gyirong Border

The 11-Day Nepal-Tibet Motorcycle Tour offers an unforgettable adventure through the majestic landscapes and deep cultural heritage of the Himalayan region. Starting and ending at the Gyirong Border (吉隆口岸) between Nepal (尼泊尔) and Tibet (西藏), the journey takes you through high-altitude roads, sacred Tibetan monasteries, and breathtaking mountain vistas. You’ll visit significant landmarks such as Lhasa (拉萨), Mount Everest (珠穆朗玛峰), and the stunning Yamdrok Lake (羊卓雍措), immersing yourself in the rich Tibetan culture and spirituality. This tour blends adventure with cultural exploration, offering a unique chance to experience the Tibetan Plateau (青藏高原) and the Himalayas (喜马拉雅山) from the seat of a motorcycle.

Tour Highlights

Gyirong Border (吉隆口岸)Gateway between Nepal and Tibet

  • Begin your adventure at the Gyirong Border, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas (喜马拉雅山) and serving as the entrance into Tibet.

Tibetan Plateau (青藏高原)Expansive High-altitude Adventure

  • Ride through the vast, awe-inspiring Tibetan Plateau, experiencing unique landscapes, high-altitude terrains, and the ancient Tibetan culture.

Shigatse (日喀则)Tashilhunpo Monastery (扎什伦布寺)

  • Visit Shigatse, home to the Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama (班禅), and explore the town’s historical landmarks.

Lhasa (拉萨)Spiritual Heart of Tibet

  • Potala Palace (布达拉宫): A UNESCO World Heritage site, once the winter residence of the Dalai Lama.

  • Jokhang Temple (大昭寺): The holiest site in Tibetan Buddhism, located in the heart of Lhasa (拉萨).

  • Barkhor Street (八角街): A bustling pilgrimage circuit encircling Jokhang Temple, filled with vibrant markets and pilgrims.

Yamdrok Lake (羊卓雍措)Sacred and Scenic Beauty

  • Experience the stunning Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and tranquil blue waters.

Rongbuk Monastery (荣布寺) & Mount Everest (珠穆朗玛峰)

  • Ride to the world’s highest monastery, Rongbuk Monastery, near Mount Everest (珠穆朗玛峰), and witness spectacular views of the Everest North Face.

Everest North Side (珠穆朗玛峰北坡)Majestic Views of Everest

  • Marvel at the awe-inspiring views of Mount Everest (珠穆朗玛峰) from the north side, a rare opportunity to witness the world’s tallest mountain up close.

Cultural Exploration in Shigatse, Gyantse, and Lhasa

  • Visit historical towns like Gyantse (江孜), Shigatse (日喀则), and Lhasa (拉萨), exploring iconic monasteries, traditional Tibetan architecture, and rich cultural sites.

Paiku Tso (帕雾错)A Serene High-altitude Lake

  • Visit Paiku Tso Lake, a peaceful, high-altitude lake surrounded by mountains, offering beautiful scenery for reflection and relaxation.

Tour Destinations:
(Nepal) – Kyirong – Saga – Lhatse – Shigatse – Gyantse – Yamdrok – Lhasa – Shigatse – Lhatse – Shegar – Rongbuk / Everest – Paiku Tso – Kyirong – (Nepal)

Entrance Customs into China: Kyirong

Exit Customs from China: Kyirong

Enter China from (Land Name): Nepal

Leave China to (Land Name): Nepal

Itinerary

Day 1: Entry at Kyirong (吉隆口岸) (2600m)

Route: Nepal to Tibet

Distance: N/A

Duration: N/A

Description:

  • Arrive at Kyirong Border (吉隆口岸), the entry point between Nepal (尼泊尔) and Tibet (西藏).

  • As you cross from Nepal to China, you will begin your high-altitude journey into Tibet.

  • At the border, meet your guide and the support team who will assist with the customs procedures.

  • Take some time to acclimatize to the altitude and rest after the border crossing.

  • Explore the small town of Kyirong (吉隆口岸), known for its peaceful mountain scenery, Tibetan culture, and welcoming atmosphere.

  • Get ready for the upcoming adventure as your guide gives you an overview of the journey ahead.

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Kyirong (吉隆口岸) at a comfortable guesthouse or hotel to rest and adjust to the altitude.


Day 2: Kyirong (吉隆口岸) – Saga (萨嘎) – Lhatse (拉孜) (4516m)

Route: Kyirong (吉隆口岸)Saga (萨嘎)Lhatse (拉孜)

Distance: 372 km

Duration: Approx. 7 hours 25 minutes

Road Condition: Asphalt road, some sections can be winding and mountainous.

Description:

  • After breakfast, start your ride towards Saga (萨嘎), a key town in the Tibetan Plateau (青藏高原), located at an altitude of 4300 meters.

  • The journey takes you through remote Tibetan villages, offering incredible panoramic views of the plateau and surrounding mountains.

  • In Saga, take a short break to stretch and enjoy the spectacular views of the Tibetan Plateau.

  • Continue your ride to Lhatse (拉孜), located at 4516 meters, a small town that offers views of snow-capped peaks and deep valleys.

  • Spend the evening in Lhatse (拉孜), where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and get a feel for the local Tibetan way of life.

Accommodation: Overnight stay in Lhatse (拉孜) in a local hotel or guesthouse.


Day 3: Lhatse (拉孜) – Shigatse (日喀则) (3868m)

Route: Lhatse (拉孜)Shigatse (日喀则)

Distance: 152 km

Duration: Approx. 3 hours

Road Condition: Asphalt roads

Description:

  • After a hearty breakfast, hit the road towards Shigatse (日喀则), Tibet’s second-largest city.

  • The ride from Lhatse (拉孜) to Shigatse (日喀则) is smooth, allowing you to take in the scenic beauty of the Tibetan countryside as you travel through the rugged, high-altitude roads.

  • Upon reaching Shigatse, visit Tashilhunpo Monastery (扎什伦布寺), which is home to the Panchen Lama (班禅) and a significant pilgrimage site for Tibetans.

  • Explore the monastery, admire the beautiful Tibetan architecture, and learn about the rich history of this spiritual center.

  • Wander around Shigatse (日喀则) and get acquainted with the local culture. The city has a vibrant Tibetan market and offers a range of cultural experiences.

Accommodation: Overnight in Shigatse (日喀则).


Day 4: Shigatse (日喀则) – Gyantse (江孜)

Route: Shigatse (日喀则)Gyantse (江孜)

Distance: 90 km

Duration: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes

Road Condition: Asphalt road

Description:

  • Begin the day by obtaining your temporary driving license and vehicle registration tag in the morning.

  • After completing the necessary formalities, head out on a short but scenic ride to Gyantse (江孜), a town known for its cultural significance and ancient architecture.

  • In Gyantse, visit Palkhor Monastery (佩尔库寺), which houses the iconic Kumbum Pagoda (大圆顶塔). The pagoda is a stunning architectural feat, and inside, you’ll find impressive frescoes and statues that depict the history of Tibetan Buddhism.

  • Take a walk around Gyantse, known for its well-preserved Tibetan atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Accommodation: Spend the night in Gyantse (江孜) at a local guesthouse or hotel.


Day 5: Gyantse (江孜) – Palkhor Monastery (佩尔库寺) with Kumbum Pagoda (大圆顶塔) – Yamdrok Lake (羊卓雍措) – Lhasa (拉萨) (3650m)

Route: Gyantse (江孜)Palkhor Monastery (佩尔库寺)Kumbum Pagoda (大圆顶塔)Yamdrok Lake (羊卓雍措)Lhasa (拉萨)

Distance: 270 km

Duration: Approx. 5 hours 33 minutes

Road Condition: National Road G318 (good asphalt road)

Description:

  • After breakfast, visit Palkhor Monastery (佩尔库寺) and the iconic Kumbum Pagoda (大圆顶塔). This pagoda is a unique structure with 108 shrines, and it is one of Tibet’s most important Buddhist landmarks.

  • Continue your ride to Yamdrok Lake (羊卓雍措), a sacred lake that reflects the stunning landscape of the Tibetan Plateau. The turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake are surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and it is considered one of the holiest lakes in Tibet.

  • After taking in the serene beauty of Yamdrok Lake, continue your ride to Lhasa (拉萨), the spiritual and cultural heart of Tibet.

  • As you approach Lhasa, you will see majestic views of Mount Nyenchen Tanglha and other surrounding mountain ranges.

Accommodation: Arrive in Lhasa (拉萨) and check into your hotel for a 3-night stay to explore the city.

Day 6: Lhasa (拉萨) – Exploring the Spiritual Heart of Tibet

Route: Lhasa (拉萨)

Description:

  • Morning: Start the day by visiting the Potala Palace (布达拉宫), the ancient winter residence of the Dalai Lama. It is a marvel of Tibetan architecture, perched on a hill overlooking Lhasa (拉萨). The palace complex includes stunning chapels, murals, and rooms filled with history. Be sure to admire the panoramic views of the city from the top.

  • Late Morning: Head to the Jokhang Temple (大昭寺), Tibet’s holiest temple. The temple is a key pilgrimage destination, where you can observe Tibetan Buddhist rituals and marvel at the sacred relics inside. Don’t miss the chance to walk around Barkhor Street (八角街), the bustling market encircling Jokhang Temple, where you can see pilgrims spinning prayer wheels and selling traditional Tibetan handicrafts.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Barkhor Square, a hub of culture and spirituality. Spend time exploring the narrow alleys that radiate out from this square, lined with shops selling Tibetan arts, souvenirs, and religious items.

  • Evening: Explore the traditional markets and enjoy Tibetan cuisine in local restaurants, soaking in the spiritual and cultural atmosphere of Lhasa.

  • Road Condition: Local city roads, all paved.

Accommodation: 1 night in Lhasa (拉萨).


Day 7: Lhasa (拉萨) – Further Exploration of Lhasa’s Monasteries

Route: Lhasa (拉萨)

Description:

  • Morning: Start with a visit to Drepung Monastery (哲蚌寺), located just outside Lhasa. This monastery once housed more than 10,000 monks and is one of the largest and most important monasteries in Tibet. You can walk through its peaceful courtyards and admire the incredible Tibetan architecture.

  • Late Morning: Proceed to Norbulingka (诺布林卡), the summer palace of the Dalai Lama, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens. Here you can witness traditional Tibetan architecture and learn about the Dalai Lama’s history.

  • Afternoon: Visit Sera Monastery (色拉寺), known for its scholarly tradition and famous debates between monks. The monastery is a serene place with an interesting mix of spiritual and academic activity. You’ll have a chance to observe the monks debating Buddhist philosophy.

  • Late Afternoon: Return to Lhasa (拉萨) and take time to explore other small monasteries or relax at a café while people-watching.

  • Road Condition: Local city roads, all paved.

Accommodation: 1 night in Lhasa (拉萨).


Day 8: Lhasa (拉萨) – Shigatse (日喀则) – Lhatse (拉孜)

Route: Lhasa (拉萨)Shigatse (日喀则)Lhatse (拉孜)

Distance: 423 km

Duration: Approx. 8 hours 24 minutes

Road Condition:

  • Lhasa (拉萨) to Shigatse (日喀则): Asphalt roads, good quality with scenic views along the Tibetan Plateau.

  • Shigatse (日喀则) to Lhatse (拉孜): Good paved roads through rural Tibet, some winding and higher-altitude roads.

Description:

  • Depart Lhasa in the morning and ride towards Shigatse (日喀则), Tibet’s second-largest city. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the Tibetan plateau, rolling hills, and distant mountains.

  • Shigatse (日喀则) is home to Tashilhunpo Monastery (扎什伦布寺), the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. Spend some time here exploring the monastery and learning about its significance in Tibetan Buddhism.

  • Continue your journey towards Lhatse (拉孜), passing small Tibetan villages and open valleys. The drive provides a mix of picturesque rural landscapes and dramatic high-altitude vistas.

Accommodation: 1 night in Lhatse (拉孜).


Day 9: Lhatse (拉孜) – Shegar (仲巴) – Rongbuk Monastery (荣布寺) / Everest (珠穆朗玛峰)

Route: Lhatse (拉孜)Shegar (仲巴)Rongbuk Monastery (荣布寺)

Distance: 187 km

Duration: Approx. 6 hours 32 minutes

Road Condition:

  • Lhatse (拉孜) to Shegar (仲巴): Asphalt roads with some rough sections due to high-altitude terrain.

  • Shegar (仲巴) to Rongbuk Monastery (荣布寺): Mixed paved and gravel roads, some rough stretches as you approach the Everest region.

Description:

  • Early morning departure from Lhatse (拉孜), heading toward Shegar (仲巴). As you ride, the landscape transitions from rolling hills to rocky, barren lands, with snow-capped peaks gradually coming into view.

  • Shegar (仲巴) marks the last stop before the Mount Everest (珠穆朗玛峰) region. After a short break, continue towards Rongbuk Monastery (荣布寺), the highest monastery in the world, located near the base of Mount Everest.

  • Rongbuk Monastery (荣布寺) offers awe-inspiring views of Everest and is a deeply spiritual site for Tibetan Buddhists. Spend the night here, soaking in the majestic mountain views and the serene atmosphere.

  • Optionally, you can continue to Everest Base Camp (珠穆朗玛峰大本营) for a closer view of the world’s highest mountain.

Accommodation: 1 night at Rongbuk Monastery (荣布寺) or nearby guesthouses.


Day 10: Rongbuk Monastery (荣布寺) – Paiku Tso (帕雾错) – Kyirong (吉隆口岸)

Route: Rongbuk Monastery (荣布寺)Paiku Tso (帕雾错)Kyirong (吉隆口岸)

Distance: 310 km

Duration: Approx. 6 hours 29 minutes

Road Condition:

  • Rongbuk Monastery (荣布寺) to Paiku Tso (帕雾错): Gravel roads with some smooth stretches, descending towards the lower altitudes.

  • Paiku Tso (帕雾错) to Kyirong (吉隆口岸): Well-paved roads with scenic rural views as you head towards the border.

Description:

  • Leave Rongbuk Monastery and head towards Paiku Tso (帕雾错), a beautiful high-altitude lake surrounded by rugged mountains. The gravel roads can be rough, but the scenery makes up for it.

  • After taking in the views of Paiku Tso, continue your journey on paved roads towards Kyirong (吉隆口岸), passing Tibetan villages and grazing yaks along the way.

  • Upon reaching Kyirong (吉隆口岸), prepare to cross the border back into Nepal. Enjoy a peaceful evening, reflecting on the journey.

Accommodation: 1 night in Kyirong (吉隆口岸).


Day 11: Kyirong (吉隆口岸) Exit into Nepal (尼泊尔)

Route: Kyirong (吉隆口岸)Nepal (尼泊尔)

Distance: N/A (Exit at border)

Duration: N/A

Road Condition: Paved roads at the border for exit.

Description:

  • After breakfast, head to the Kyirong Customs (吉隆口岸海关) for the exit formalities. Your guide will assist with paperwork and ensure smooth passage through the border.

  • As you cross from Tibet (西藏) into Nepal (尼泊尔), reflect on the spectacular landscapes you’ve traversed during your motorcycle tour.

  • Service Ends: In Kyirong (吉隆口岸) after crossing into Nepal (尼泊尔).

Service Included:

  • Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
  • Meals as listed in the itinerary;
  • Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
  • Private English-speaking tour guide;
  • Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
  • Service charge & government taxes;
  • Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
  • Domestic train tickets of soft sleeper.

Service Excluded:

  • Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
  • Chinese visa fees;
  • Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
  • Single room supplement;
  • Tips to guides and drivers;
  • Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
  • Personal travel accident insurance;
  • All optional programs.