16 Days Nepal-China (Tibet-Yunnan) -Myanmar Motorbike Tour from Gyirong to Ruili

The 16-Day Nepal-China (Tibet-Yunnan)-Myanmar Motorbike Tour offers an incredible journey through some of the most diverse and captivating landscapes in Asia. From the high-altitude Himalayan ridges to the spiritual heart of Tibet and the cultural richness of Yunnan, this adventure combines rugged mountain terrains, serene lakes, ancient monasteries, and bustling markets. The tour culminates in the vibrant border town of Ruili, where China meets Myanmar, marking the transition from Tibetan and Chinese culture to Southeast Asia.

Throughout the journey, you’ll experience the vast Tibetan Plateau, ride through scenic valleys in Yunnan, visit sacred sites such as Mount Kailash and Yamdrok Lake, and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of Lijiang, Dali, and Shangri-La. This tour is not just about riding; it’s about exploring ancient histories, interacting with local cultures, and witnessing breathtaking views across the world’s highest roads.


Tour Highlights:

Gyirong Border (吉隆) – Entrance into Tibet

Start your adventure at the Gyirong Border, the gateway between Nepal and Tibet, with panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Tibetan Plateau – A High-Altitude Adventure

Ride across the Tibetan Plateau, the “roof of the world,” where snow-capped peaks, Buddhist monasteries, and traditional Tibetan villages await.

Yunnan-Tibet Highway (滇藏公路)

Experience the thrilling ride on the Yunnan-Tibet Highway, one of the most famous and challenging roads in China. This historic route connects the Tibetan Plateau with the lush landscapes of Yunnan, offering incredible views and adventure along the way.

Lhasa (拉萨) – Spiritual Heart of Tibet

Explore the historic Potala Palace (布达拉宫), Jokhang Temple (大昭寺), and the lively Barkhor Street (八角街), soaking in the deep spiritual and cultural essence of Tibet.

Sacred Lakes and Peaks

Visit Yamdrok Lake (羊卓雍措), one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes, and Mount Kailash (冈仁波齐), revered by multiple religions.

The nearby Lake Manasarovar (玛旁雍错) offers incredible views and spiritual significance.

Shigatse (日喀则) & Gyantse (江孜)

Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery (扎什伦布寺) in Shigatse, home to the Panchen Lama, and explore Pelkor Monastery and the Kumbum Stupa (大圆顶塔) in Gyantse, a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture.

Lijiang (丽江) & Dali (大理) – Ancient Towns of Yunnan

Discover Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its well-preserved Old Town, the Black Dragon Pool (黑龙潭), and Dongba Culture Museum.

In Dali, explore the Three Pagodas and enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Erhai Lake (洱海).

Shangri-La (香格里拉) – The Lost Horizon

Visit the Sumzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺) in Shangri-La, set against the stunning backdrop of Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山), and marvel at the beauty of the Jinshajiang River.

Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡)

Ride through one of the world’s deepest gorges, Tiger Leaping Gorge, where the mighty Yangtze River (长江) cuts through dramatic cliffs, offering exhilarating views.

Ruili (瑞丽) – Gateway to Myanmar

Conclude your journey in the vibrant border town of Ruili, known for its cultural diversity and bustling market, before crossing into Myanmar.

Myanmar Border Crossing

Cross into Myanmar, experiencing the cultural transition from Chinese-Tibetan to Southeast Asian influences, marking the end of your journey in Ruili.

Tour Destinations:
(Nepal) – Kyirong – Shigatse – Gyantse – Lhasa – Basum Tso Lake – Linzhi – Bomi – Ranwu Lake – Baxoi – Zuogong – Markam – Dechen – Shangri-La – Lijiang – Dali – Baoshan – Ruili – (Myanmar)

Entrance Customs into China: Kyirong

Exit Customs from China: Ruili

Enter China from (Land Name): Nepal

Leave China to (Land Name): Myanmar

Itinerary

Day 1: Entry at Kyirong (吉隆)

Distance: N/A
Motorcycle Riding Time: N/A (Arrival day)
Road Condition: N/A
Description:

Arrive at Kyirong Port (吉隆口岸), the primary border crossing between Nepal and China (Tibet).

After crossing into China, you will meet the guide and leading vehicle at the border.

The guide will assist with customs formalities and help process the paperwork required to enter Tibet (西藏).

Take some time to relax and adjust to the altitude (2,600 meters) before the journey begins. This is a great opportunity to take in the stunning Himalayan views (喜马拉雅山) from the border.

Attractions:

Kyirong Port (吉隆口岸) – A scenic border town nestled between the mountains, offering a first glimpse of the Tibetan landscape.

Himalayan Viewpoint (喜马拉雅山景点) – Panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas (喜马拉雅山), where Nepal and Tibet meet.

Accommodation: 2 nights in Kyirong (吉隆).


Day 2: Kyirong (吉隆)

Distance: N/A
Motorcycle Riding Time: N/A
Road Condition: N/A
Description:

Rest day to allow your body to adjust to the altitude (海拔) and recover from the long journey.

You can explore Kyirong Town (吉隆镇) and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery (山脉景色) around the area.

Use this day to prepare for the upcoming ride and ensure your motorcycle is in good condition for the road ahead.

The guide can give you insights into Tibetan culture (藏族文化) and the history (历史) of the area.

Attractions:

Kyirong’s Local Market (吉隆本地市场) – Small markets where you can interact with local Tibetans and purchase unique souvenirs.

Scenic Views (美丽景色) of the surrounding Himalayan foothills (喜马拉雅山脚下).

Accommodation: 2 nights in Kyirong (吉隆).


Day 3: Kyirong (吉隆) to Shigatse (日喀则) (3868m)

Distance: 152 km
Motorcycle Riding Time: Approx. 3 hours
Road Condition: Asphalt road (Good quality, well-paved)
Description:

Depart from Kyirong (吉隆) early in the morning and embark on the ride to Shigatse (日喀则), Tibet’s second-largest city.

Along the route, you will pass through rugged mountain landscapes (崎岖的山脉景观), deep valleys (深谷), and traditional Tibetan villages (藏族村庄).

The road conditions are relatively good, with smooth asphalt roads, but there will be winding sections with steep climbs.

Upon arrival in Shigatse (日喀则), you will visit Tashilunpo Monastery (扎什伦布寺), one of Tibet’s largest and most significant monasteries, located on the hills of Shigatse.

Explore the monastery’s prayer halls (祈祷殿堂), statues of the Panchen Lama (班禅喇嘛像), and its traditional Tibetan architecture (藏族建筑).

Attractions:

Tashilunpo Monastery (扎什伦布寺) – The seat of the Panchen Lama (班禅喇嘛), this important spiritual site is known for its rich history and large golden Buddha statue (金色佛像).

Accommodation: 2 nights in Shigatse (日喀则).


Day 4: Shigatse (日喀则)

Distance: N/A
Motorcycle Riding Time: N/A
Road Condition: N/A
Description:

Today, you will complete the custom formalities (海关手续) needed for the continuation of the trip.

A visit to the local customs office (当地海关) is required to obtain your temporary driving license (临时驾驶证) and vehicle tag (车牌).

These documents will allow you to travel further into Tibet (西藏).

You can also take some extra time to explore Shigatse (日喀则), a city that offers a mix of Tibetan and Chinese cultures.

Take a stroll through the local market (本地市场), where you can find traditional Tibetan goods (藏族商品), religious items (宗教物品), and handcrafted jewelry (手工艺品).

Attractions:

Shigatse Market (日喀则市场) – A bustling Tibetan market where you can buy local handicrafts (藏族手工艺品), Tibetan rugs (藏毯), jewelry (珠宝), and prayer flags (祈祷旗).

Accommodation: 2 nights in Shigatse (日喀则).


Day 5: Shigatse (日喀则) – Gyantse (江孜)  – Yamdrok Lake (羊卓雍措) – Lhasa (拉萨) (3650m)

Distance: Approx. 320 km
Motorcycle Riding Time: Approx. 8 hours
Road Condition: Asphalt road (Smooth, good quality)
Description:

Start your ride early as you head from Shigatse (日喀则) to Lhasa (拉萨).

The first stop is Gyantse (江孜), a small town renowned for the Pelkor Monastery (佩尔库寺) and its Kumbum Stupa (大圆顶塔). The Kumbum Stupa (大圆顶塔) is a multi-story structure that contains hundreds of statues (佛像) and paintings (壁画), making it one of Tibet’s architectural masterpieces (建筑奇迹).

After visiting Gyantse, continue your ride to Yamdrok Lake (羊卓雍措), a sacred and stunning turquoise-colored lake (碧绿色湖泊) surrounded by snow-capped mountains (白雪覆盖的山脉). The lake is one of Tibet’s Three Holy Lakes (三大圣湖) and is considered a sacred site in Tibetan Buddhism (藏传佛教).

After enjoying the scenic beauty of Yamdrok Lake (羊卓雍措), continue on to Lhasa (拉萨), where your journey’s next chapter begins.

Attractions:

Pelkor Monastery (佩尔库寺) – Famous for its stunning Kumbum Stupa (大圆顶塔), a spiritual center for Tibetan Buddhists (藏族佛教徒).

Yamdrok Lake (羊卓雍措) – A sacred turquoise lake (碧绿色圣湖) surrounded by beautiful mountain landscapes (美丽的山脉景色).

Lhasa (拉萨) – The spiritual heart of Tibet (西藏), the home of the Dalai Lama (达赖喇嘛) and the Potala Palace (布达拉宫).

Accommodation: 2 nights in Lhasa (拉萨).


Day 6: Lhasa (拉萨)

Distance: N/A
Motorcycle Riding Time: N/A
Road Condition: N/A
Description:

Today, explore Lhasa (拉萨), the historic and spiritual capital of Tibet (西藏).

The Potala Palace (布达拉宫), one of the most iconic symbols of Tibetan Buddhism (藏传佛教), will be your first stop. The palace, once the residence of the Dalai Lama (达赖喇嘛), sits high above the city, offering panoramic views of Lhasa (拉萨).

Next, visit the Jokhang Temple (大昭寺), the most revered temple in Tibet (西藏). It’s considered the spiritual heart of Tibet (西藏), and Buddhists from around the world make pilgrimages to this site.

Take a walk around Barkhor Street (八角街), where pilgrims circumambulate the Jokhang Temple (大昭寺). The street is full of shops selling Tibetan prayer beads (藏式佛珠), yaks wool (牦牛毛), incense (香料), and other cultural items (文化商品).

Attractions:

Potala Palace (布达拉宫) – The majestic palace, perched on a hilltop, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (世界遗产) and a symbol of Tibetan culture (藏族文化).

Jokhang Temple (大昭寺) – The holiest Buddhist temple in Tibet (西藏).

Barkhor Street (八角街) – A lively pilgrimage circuit (朝圣街) surrounding Jokhang Temple (大昭寺), filled with Tibetan goods and local life (藏族商品和本地文化).

Accommodation: 2 nights in Lhasa (拉萨).

Day 7: Lhasa (拉萨) – Basum Tso Lake (巴松措) – Linzhi (林芝)

Distance: 455 km
Road Condition: Asphalt road (Smooth, well-paved)
Description:

Begin your ride from Lhasa (拉萨) to Linzhi (林芝), also known as Nyingchi (林芝), which is often called “The Switzerland of Tibet” for its breathtaking landscapes.

Stop at Basum Tso Lake (巴松措), a sacred and beautiful blue lake (蓝色湖泊) surrounded by forests and mountains. It’s a peaceful place to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of Tibet.

Continue on to Linzhi (林芝), a lush and scenic region that contrasts the typically arid landscapes of Tibet. The area is famous for its dense forests and alpine meadows.

Attractions:

Basum Tso Lake (巴松措) – A serene and sacred lake with stunning mountain views, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Linzhi (林芝) – Known for its forests, rivers, and the beauty of the Yarlung Tsangpo River (雅鲁藏布江).

Accommodation: 1 night in Linzhi (林芝).


Day 8: Linzhi (林芝) – Lulang Forest (鲁朗森林) – Bomi (波密) – Ranwu Lake (然乌湖)

Distance: 361 km
Duration: Approx. 7 hours
Road Condition: Asphalt road (Smooth, good condition)
Description:

Depart Linzhi (林芝) and head towards Lulang Forest (鲁朗森林), a beautiful stretch of pine and fir forests. The road winds through this lush area, offering spectacular views of the trees and mountains.

Continue the ride through Bomi (波密), a town surrounded by dense forests and towering mountains.

Ride past the Serkhyem La Pass (色强拉山口) (4515m), where you can enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Gyala Pelri (吉拉佩里山) (7150m) and Mt. Namchak Barwa (南查巴尔瓦山) (7782m), both of which are towering peaks in the Himalayas (喜马拉雅山).

Reach Ranwu Lake (然乌湖), a stunning glacial lake with crystal-clear waters nestled at the foot of the mountains.

Attractions:

Lulang Forest (鲁朗森林) – A lush pine forest that adds a unique contrast to Tibet’s traditional landscapes.

Serkhyem La Pass (色强拉山口) – Stunning views of Mt. Gyala Pelri (吉拉佩里山) and Mt. Namchak Barwa (南查巴尔瓦山).

Ranwu Lake (然乌湖) – A serene, turquoise lake surrounded by glaciers and towering mountains.

Accommodation: 1 night at Ranwu Lake (然乌湖).


Day 9: Ranwu Lake (然乌湖) – Baxoi (巴松) – Zuogong (左贡)

Distance: 290 km
Duration: Approx. 7 hours
Road Condition: Asphalt road (Smooth, some winding roads)
Description:

Depart Ranwu Lake (然乌湖) and continue the journey to Baxoi (巴松), a small town known for its natural beauty.

Ride through dramatic mountain terrain, with incredible views of snow-capped peaks and deep valleys.

Continue to Zuogong (左贡), a small town that sits on the banks of the Yarlung Tsangpo River (雅鲁藏布江). Here, the landscape becomes even more rugged as you approach the high-altitude eastern Tibet (东藏) region.

Attractions:

Baxoi (巴松) – A peaceful town surrounded by rugged mountains and scenic landscapes.

Yarlung Tsangpo River (雅鲁藏布江) – Known as the Brahmaputra River (雅鲁藏布江), it’s one of the major rivers in Asia, flowing through deep gorges and high-altitude terrain.

Accommodation: 1 night in Zuogong (左贡).


Day 10: Zuogong (左贡) – Markam (墨脱) – Dechen (德钦)

Distance: 377 km
Road Condition: Asphalt road (Well-paved, good quality)
Description:

Continue the ride from Zuogong (左贡) to Markam (墨脱), a town located in a deep valley with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

From Markam (墨脱), you’ll ride to Dechen (德钦), a town that is the gateway to the Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山) range. On clear days, you can see Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山) from a distance, one of the highest peaks in the region at over 6,740 meters.

In Dechen (德钦), you’ll also have a chance to view the baysalt production (海盐生产), an important local industry.

Attractions:

Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山) – A majestic mountain range considered sacred by Tibetans. It’s also a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers.

Baysalt production (海盐生产) – The traditional salt production method used in Tibet.

Accommodation: 1 night in Dechen (德钦).


Day 11: Dechen (德钦) – Shangri-La (香格里拉)

Distance: 176 km
Duration: Approx. 3 hours 49 minutes
Description:

Continue your journey from Dechen (德钦) to Shangri-La (香格里拉), a town named after the mythical paradise described in James Hilton’s novel. It is a place known for its Tibetan culture and breathtaking views.

On a clear day, you will get a fantastic view of Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山) from afar. The mountain is considered sacred by locals and is the site of various Tibetan spiritual ceremonies.

Visit the Sumzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺), Tibet’s largest Gelugpa monastery (黄教寺庙). It is an impressive architectural site and offers a rich cultural experience.

Enjoy the stunning Jinshajiang River (金沙江), also known as the Golden Sands River, which meanders through the region.

Attractions:

Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山) – A breathtaking view of one of Tibet’s highest peaks.

Sumzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺) – A massive Tibetan Buddhist monastery, often referred to as the “Little Potala Palace” for its grandeur.

Jinshajiang River (金沙江) – The Golden Sands River, offering picturesque landscapes and cultural importance.

Accommodation: 1 night in Shangri-La (香格里拉).

Day 12: Shangri-La (香格里拉) – Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡) – Lijiang (丽江)

Distance: 354 km
Duration: Approx. 7 hours
Road Condition: Asphalt road (Smooth, well-paved)
Description:

Depart Shangri-La (香格里拉) in the morning and head towards Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡), one of the world’s deepest gorges, offering breathtaking views of the Yangtze River (长江) cutting through dramatic cliffs.

The ride through the gorge offers spectacular landscapes with steep mountain slopes and rapid river waters.

After visiting Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡), continue on to Lijiang (丽江), a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its ancient architecture and well-preserved culture.

Attractions:

Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡) – A stunning gorge on the Yangtze River (长江), offering dramatic cliffs and a vibrant history.

Lijiang (丽江) – The charming ancient city known for its beautiful canals, cobbled streets, and traditional Naxi culture.

Accommodation: 2 nights in Lijiang (丽江).


Day 13: Lijiang (丽江)

Distance: N/A
Motorcycle Riding Time: N/A
Road Condition: N/A
Description:

Spend the day exploring the beautiful city of Lijiang (丽江).

Visit the Black Dragon Pool (黑龙潭), a scenic spot with the reflection of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山) in the clear waters.

Discover the fascinating Dongba Culture Museum (东巴文化博物馆), where you can learn about the Dongba culture and the Naxi people (纳西族), the indigenous people of the region.

Take a leisurely stroll through the ancient city of Lijiang (丽江古城), which is famous for its old town, lively streets, and traditional Naxi architecture. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you can visit the Mu Family Mansion (木氏家族住宅), a historical residence that offers insight into the region’s past.

Attractions:

Black Dragon Pool (黑龙潭) – A peaceful park offering beautiful views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山).

Dongba Culture Museum (东巴文化博物馆) – A museum showcasing the history and traditions of the Naxi people (纳西族).

Lijiang Old Town (丽江古城) – A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its charming streets and architecture.

Accommodation: 2 nights in Lijiang (丽江).


Day 14: Lijiang (丽江) – Dali (大理)

Distance: 160 km
Road Condition: Expressway (Good condition)
Description:

Depart Lijiang (丽江) in the morning and head towards Dali (大理), a picturesque town famous for its ancient architecture and its location by Erhai Lake (洱海).

Visit the iconic Three Pagodas (三塔), which are part of the Chongsheng Temple (崇圣寺) complex, a historic Buddhist site dating back to the 9th century.

Take a boat ride on Erhai Lake (洱海), a large freshwater lake surrounded by mountains and offering stunning views of the area.

Explore Dali Ancient Town (大理古城), known for its preserved Bai culture (白族文化) and beautiful old buildings.

Attractions:

Three Pagodas (三塔) – The ancient pagodas at Chongsheng Temple (崇圣寺), one of the most iconic landmarks in Dali (大理).

Erhai Lake (洱海) – A scenic lake with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a peaceful boat ride.

Dali Ancient Town (大理古城) – A charming town filled with Bai culture (白族文化) and traditional architecture.

Accommodation: 1 night in Dali (大理).


Day 15: Dali (大理) – Baoshan (保山) – Ruili (瑞丽)

Distance: 411 km
Duration: Approx. 6 hours
Road Condition: Expressway + National road (Well-paved and good condition)
Description:

Depart Dali (大理) and head towards Baoshan (保山), a city known for its natural beauty and historical significance.

Continue the ride to Ruili (瑞丽), a vibrant border town where China meets Myanmar. Ruili is known for its cultural diversity and is a major trade hub for the region.

Enjoy the scenic drive, passing through rolling hills, forests, and small villages along the way.

Attractions:

Baoshan (保山) – A city with stunning natural landscapes and rich history.

Ruili (瑞丽) – A border town that marks the cultural transition between China and Myanmar, with a lively market and vibrant local life.

Accommodation: 1 night in Ruili (瑞丽).


Day 16: Ruili (瑞丽) Exit to Myanmar (缅甸)

Distance: N/A
Road Condition: N/A
Description:

Ride to the customs checkpoint (海关检查站) at Ruili (瑞丽), where you will complete the necessary exit formalities (出境手续) for crossing into Myanmar (缅甸).

This marks the end of your journey in China, but the adventure continues as you cross into Myanmar (缅甸).

Attractions:

Ruili Customs (瑞丽口岸) – The border point between China and Myanmar, where your motorbike adventure officially ends in China (中国).

Note: Service ends in China (中国). You will now cross into Myanmar (缅甸).

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.