14 Days Nepal-China (Tibet-Xinjiang)-Kyrghyzstan Motorbike Tour with Mount Kailash from Gyirong to Irkeshtam

Tour Overview

The 14-Day Nepal-China (Tibet-Xinjiang)-Kyrgyzstan Motorbike Tour is an exhilarating, multi-country adventure that combines rugged terrain, high-altitude riding, sacred cultural sites, and an immersion into the heart of Tibetan, Xinjiang,...

Code of Tour: CDT0000090082

Length of Travel: 14 Day

Destinations of Tour: (Nepal) – Kyirong – Paiku Tso – Rongbuk / Everest – Shegar – Lhatse – Shigatse – Lhatse – Saga – Manasarovar – Kailash – Tsada – Shiquanhe – Domar – Hongliutan – Mazar – Kashgar – Irkeshtam – (Kyrgyzstan)

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Price of Tour: Request

Type of Tour:

Features of Tour:

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The 14-Day Nepal-China (Tibet-Xinjiang)-Kyrgyzstan Motorbike Tour is an exhilarating, multi-country adventure that combines rugged terrain, high-altitude riding, sacred cultural sites, and an immersion into the heart of Tibetan, Xinjiang, and Central Asian cultures. This tour takes you from Nepal to Kyrgyzstan, passing through Tibet’s high plains, exploring the Tibetan Plateau, and crossing Xinjiang, where the landscapes transition from arid deserts to lush valleys.

Beginning at the Gyirong Border between Nepal and China, this motorbike tour traverses some of the most scenic yet challenging roads in Asia, including the famed Tibetan Plateau and the vast Tian Shan Mountains. The journey also covers iconic sites like the Mount Kailash, Lake Manasarovar, and the Guge Kingdom Ruins. Throughout the journey, riders will encounter Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, sacred lakes, desert oases, and bustling Silk Road towns like Kashgar, experiencing a fascinating blend of cultures, traditions, and ancient histories. The adventure culminates at the Irkeshtam Border, marking your transition from China into Kyrgyzstan, and ultimately, the end of your ride across this stunning and remote landscape.

Tour Highlights:

Gyirong Border (Nepal-China):

Trekking through the Himalayas: The journey begins at the Gyirong Border, where you cross from Nepal to Tibet, accompanied by incredible views of the Himalayan mountain range.

High-altitude adventure: Start at 2600m and prepare for altitude changes, acclimatization, and diverse landscapes.

Tibetan Plateau (青藏高原):

High-altitude landscapes: Ride across the Tibetan Plateau, the “roof of the world”, with its vast, open plains and stunning scenery. The plateau’s unique geography and remote setting provide an experience unlike any other, with incredible opportunities to observe Tibetan culture and spirituality at its roots.

Mount Kailash (冈仁波齐山):

Sacred Mountain: Visit the awe-inspiring Mount Kailash, the holiest mountain for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bonpo followers. Pilgrims often perform the sacred ritual of Kora (circumambulating the mountain), which you can take part in or witness. Kailash is surrounded by deep spiritual significance and natural beauty.

Lake Manasarovar (玛旁雍措):

Sacred Lake: Lake Manasarovar is one of Tibet’s most sacred bodies of water. The pristine blue lake lies at the foot of Mount Kailash and is revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike. A visit here offers peace, reflection, and spiritual significance.

Lhasa (拉萨):

Spiritual Capital: Explore Lhasa, the religious and administrative heart of Tibet, home to revered temples and the iconic Potala Palace.

Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street: Visit the sacred Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s most sacred shrine, and explore Barkhor Street, a lively market that winds around the temple.

Shigatse (日喀则):

Tashilunpo Monastery: Visit the historical Tashilunpo Monastery, a major Tibetan Buddhist site, and the seat of the Panchen Lama.

Temporary Vehicle Plates: Apply for the temporary vehicle license plate in Shigatse, an essential step for foreign bikers in Tibet.

Guge Kingdom Ruins (古格王朝遗址):

Ancient Civilization: Discover the remains of the Guge Kingdom in Tsada. This ancient kingdom flourished in Western Tibet before mysteriously collapsing in the 17th century. The ruins provide fascinating insights into Tibet’s ancient history and Buddhist culture.

Xinjiang (新疆):

Diverse Cultures and Scenery: Ride through Xinjiang, a vast and diverse province in Western China, known for its arid deserts, lush oasis towns, and mountainous landscapes. Here, you’ll witness a unique mix of Uyghur culture, historical Silk Road sites, and rugged terrain.

Kashgar (喀什): Explore Kashgar, a historic Silk Road city, and visit the Akba Khojia Mausoleum and Kashgar Bazaar. Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant markets and old-world charm.

Tian Shan Mountains (天山):

Crossing the Mountains: Ride through the Tian Shan Mountains, part of the Central Asian mountain range that forms a natural border between China and Kyrgyzstan. The towering peaks and vast valleys offer striking views and challenging terrain.

Irkeshtam Border (伊尔克什坦口岸):

Transition into Kyrgyzstan: Conclude your motorbike journey at the Irkeshtam Border, the gateway between China and Kyrgyzstan. Here, you will exit China and head into Central Asia, completing an epic ride across multiple countries and regions.

Tour Destinations:
(Nepal) – Kyirong – Paiku Tso – Rongbuk / Everest – Shegar – Lhatse – Shigatse – Lhatse – Saga – Manasarovar – Kailash – Tsada – Shiquanhe – Domar – Hongliutan – Mazar – Kashgar – Irkeshtam – (Kyrgyzstan)

Entrance Customs into China: Kyirong

Exit Customs from China: Irkeshtam

Enter China from (Land Name): Nepal

Leave China to (Land Name): Kyrgyzstan

Itinerary

Day 1: Entry at Kyirong (2600m) (吉隆)

Distance: No riding today (Custom formalities)

Road Condition: Smooth, paved roads from the border to Kyirong (吉隆)

Riding Time: None

Description:
Arrive at Kyirong (吉隆) Port, the crossing point between Nepal and China. The town of Kyirong (吉隆), nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The weather is pleasant, but the altitude (2,600 meters) may cause a slight shortness of breath, so the rest of the day is dedicated to adjusting to the altitude. After crossing the border, meet your guide and the support vehicle, who will assist with all necessary customs formalities. Spend the day relaxing and exploring the border town.

Accommodation: 2 nights in Kyirong (吉隆), a peaceful border town.

Day 2: Kyirong (吉隆)

Distance: No riding today

Road Condition: N/A

Riding Time: None

Description:
Rest Day: The day is set aside for altitude acclimatization, as the altitude can affect travelers, especially when heading into Tibet. Today, relax and take short walks around Kyirong (吉隆) to help your body adjust to the higher elevation. Avoid strenuous activity to prevent altitude sickness. The town is located in a beautiful valley, and the surrounding views of the Himalayas are stunning. The slower pace allows you to recover and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Accommodation: 2nd night in Kyirong (吉隆).

Day 3: Kyirong (吉隆) – Paiku Tso (帕依库错) – Shegar (4300m) (吉隆)

Distance: 255 km

Road Condition: Sand roads (to Paiku Tso), asphalt roads (from Paiku Tso to Shegar)

Riding Time: Approx. 7-8 hours

Description:
Start the ride by heading toward Paiku Tso (帕依库错), a picturesque lake surrounded by stunning mountain views. The first part of the journey takes you on rugged sand roads that lead to the lake. Take a break at the lake, where you can enjoy the serene beauty and crystal-clear waters. The second half of the ride moves to asphalt roads, and the ride becomes smoother as you head to Shegar (吉隆), situated at an altitude of 4,300 meters. Shegar, an important Tibetan trading town, serves as a hub for travelers heading toward Mount Everest.

Accommodation: 1 night in Shegar (吉隆).

Day 4: Shegar (吉隆) – Rongbuk Monastery / Everest (4980m) (日喀则)

Distance: 100 km

Road Condition: Sand road

Riding Time: Approx. 4-5 hours

Description:
Ride from Shegar (吉隆) to Rongbuk Monastery (日喀则), located at the base of Mount Everest (珠穆朗玛峰). The route includes sand roads, which are challenging but offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Rongbuk Monastery (日喀则), situated at 4,980 meters, is the highest monastery in the world and provides a breathtaking view of the north face of Mount Everest. The monastery holds spiritual significance for Buddhists, and the site is a must-see for those journeying through Tibet.

Accommodation: 1 night at Rongbuk Monastery (日喀则), a simple, but beautiful place to stay.

Day 5: Rongbuk Monastery (日喀则) – Shegar (吉隆) – Lhatse (4012m) (拉萨) – Shigatse (3868m) (日喀则)

Distance: Approx. 390 km

Road Condition: 100 km (sand road) + 290 km (asphalt road)

Riding Time: Approx. 8-9 hours

Description:
Leave Rongbuk Monastery (日喀则) early in the morning and head back to Shegar (吉隆), then continue on to Lhatse (拉萨) and finally to Shigatse (日喀则). The route includes sand roads between Rongbuk and Shegar, which gradually turn to asphalt as you approach Lhatse (拉萨) and Shigatse (日喀则). Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet, is an important cultural and religious center, home to the Tashilunpo Monastery (扎什伦布寺), one of Tibet’s largest and most significant monasteries.

Accommodation: 2 nights in Shigatse (日喀则).

Day 6: Shigatse (日喀则)

Distance: No riding today

Road Condition: N/A

Riding Time: None

Description:
Spend the day in Shigatse (日喀则), exploring the Tashilunpo Monastery (扎什伦布寺) and the local market. The Tashilunpo Monastery (扎什伦布寺), established in the 15th century, is the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. It’s one of the most prominent religious institutions in Tibet. If time permits, visit the bustling market where locals sell a variety of Tibetan goods. This is also the day to complete the vehicle paperwork, including applying for the temporary vehicle plate and driving license for your time in Tibet.

Accommodation: 2nd night in Shigatse (日喀则).

Day 7: Shigatse (日喀则) – Lhatse (拉萨) – Saga (4504m) (萨嘎)

Distance: 190 km (to Lhatse) + 281 km (to Saga)

Road Condition: Asphalt road

Riding Time: Approx. 9-10 hours

Description:
Today’s ride takes you from Shigatse (日喀则) to Saga (萨嘎) via Lhatse (拉萨). The road is mostly asphalt, making for smoother riding. Saga (萨嘎), located at an altitude of 4,504 meters, is an important town in Tibet, known for its trading activities and proximity to Mount Kailash (冈仁波齐). Saga marks the beginning of your journey towards the sacred Mount Kailash (冈仁波齐), one of the most revered mountains in the world. The landscapes during the ride will begin to change as you move closer to the more remote areas of Western Tibet.

Accommodation: 1 night in Saga (萨嘎).

Day 8: Saga (萨嘎) – Paryang (4598m) (帕扬) – Manasarovar Lake (玛旁雍错)

Distance: 250 km + 270 km

Road Condition: Asphalt and rough gravel roads

Riding Time: Approx. 9-10 hours

Description:
Depart from Saga (萨嘎), riding through the scenic Tibetan Plateau towards Paryang (帕扬). From here, you will continue on to Manasarovar Lake (玛旁雍错), one of Tibet’s most sacred lakes. This vast freshwater lake is revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike. It’s a stunning location with clear blue waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Upon arrival at Manasarovar, enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Manasarovar Lake (玛旁雍错) holds immense spiritual significance, and you can feel the serenity as you prepare for the next day’s journey to Mount Kailash.

Accommodation: 1 night in a simple guest house near Manasarovar Lake (玛旁雍错).

Day 9: Manasarovar Lake (玛旁雍错) – Darchen/Kailash (4560m) (扎尔臣/冈仁波齐) – Tsada (措拉)

Distance: 268 km

Road Condition: Rough gravel and asphalt

Riding Time: Approx. 6-7 hours

Description:
Today, ride towards Darchen (扎尔臣), a small settlement near the base of Mount Kailash (冈仁波齐), one of the holiest mountains in the world. You’ll have the option to take a short trekking journey at the base of Mount Kailash, allowing you to connect spiritually with the mountain. After the trek, continue riding towards Tsada (措拉). The landscape on this route is barren, remote, and otherworldly, with views of vast plateaus and snow-capped peaks. The area around Mount Kailash (冈仁波齐) is renowned for its spiritual energy, attracting pilgrims from all over the world.

Accommodation: 1 night in Tsada (措拉).

Day 10: Tsada (措拉) – Shiquanhe (4255m) (狮泉河)

Distance: 255 km

Road Condition: Asphalt and rough roads

Riding Time: Approx. 6-7 hours

Description:
From Tsada (措拉), head towards Shiquanhe (狮泉河), the administrative center of the Ngari Prefecture (阿里地区). Along the way, make a stop at the Guge Kingdom Ruins (古格王国遗址) near Tsada (措拉). The Guge Kingdom was a powerful Tibetan kingdom that thrived from the 10th to the 17th century, leaving behind breathtaking ruins and ancient monasteries. Visit the Toelin Monastery (托林寺), which dates back to the 10th century. Then continue riding towards Shiquanhe (狮泉河), which lies at an altitude of 4,255 meters and offers a glimpse into Tibet’s rural life.

Accommodation: 1 night in Shiquanhe (狮泉河).

Day 11: Shiquanhe (狮泉河) – Bagong Tso (巴供错) – Domar (多玛) – Jieshan Daban (6700m) (杰山达坂) – Hongliutan (4190m) (红柳滩)

Distance: 581 km

Duration: Approx. 9 hours

Road Condition: Gravel, rough roads, and high-altitude mountain roads

Riding Time: Approx. 9-10 hours

Description:
Today is one of the longest riding days, but it offers unparalleled views of Tibetan highlands. Ride from Shiquanhe (狮泉河) to Bagong Tso (巴供错), a serene lake surrounded by vast plains. From here, you will head towards Domar (多玛) and cross Jieshan Daban (杰山达坂), a high-altitude pass at 6,700 meters. The altitude here can make the ride challenging, so take your time and stop to adjust. The route then continues down to Hongliutan (红柳滩), a remote area known for its sparse vegetation and isolated beauty.

Accommodation: 1 night in Hongliutan (红柳滩).

Day 12: Hongliutan (红柳滩) – Mazar (麻扎) – Yecheng (叶城)

Distance: Approx. 490 km

Duration: Approx. 9 hours 32 minutes

Road Condition: Asphalt and gravel roads

Riding Time: Approx. 9-10 hours

Description:
Ride from Hongliutan (红柳滩) to Mazar (麻扎) and then to Yecheng (叶城). The route takes you through remote desert-like landscapes, with vast expanses and very little vegetation. The ride is long but offers scenic views of the Tian Shan Mountains and distant peaks. Yecheng (叶城) is located at the southern tip of the Tarim Basin, and it is a strategic town in Xinjiang Province. The area is culturally diverse, with influences from both Han Chinese and Uyghur cultures.

Accommodation: 1 night in Yecheng (叶城).

Day 13: Yecheng (叶城) – Kashgar (喀什)

Distance: 244 km

Duration: Approx. 3 hours 26 minutes

Road Condition: Asphalt road

Riding Time: Approx. 3-4 hours

Description:
A relatively short ride to Kashgar (喀什), a historical city that was once a major stop on the Silk Road. Visit the Akba Khojia Mausoleum (艾克巴·霍贾墓), a beautiful example of Uyghur Islamic architecture. Take some time to explore the Old City of Kashgar, with its bustling bazaars, narrow streets, and unique architecture. This city is a melting pot of cultures, where you can experience the rich history and traditions of the Uyghur people.

Accommodation: 1 night in Kashgar (喀什).

Day 14: Kashgar (喀什) – Irkeshtam (伊尔克什坦) – Kyrgyzstan

Distance: 234 km

Description:
Ride from Kashgar (喀什) to the Irkeshtam Border (伊尔克什坦), which is the gateway between China and Kyrgyzstan. The journey takes you across the rugged, remote landscapes of the Tian Shan Mountains. Upon arrival at the border, you will go through exit formalities to complete your journey through China. The ride ends here, as you cross into Kyrgyzstan, ready to explore more of Central Asia.

Note: Service ends in China at the Irkeshtam Border (伊尔克什坦).