20 Days Kyrgyzstan-China (Xinjiang-Tibet Lhasa)-Nepal Motorbike Tour from Irkeshtam to Gyirong

Distance: None (Stay within Kashgar)

Duration: Flexible

Road Condition: Paved city roads.

Route:

• You’ll spend the day in Kashgar to complete your customs formalities and obtain your temporary driving license and vehicle tags.

• Spend the afternoon exploring Kashgar and visiting key attractions.

Sightseeing in Kashgar:

• Id Kah Mosque (艾提尕尔清真寺): The largest mosque in Kashgar, a historical and architectural gem with a rich Uyghur heritage.

• Kashgar Old City (喀什老城区): Explore the ancient streets lined with traditional Uyghur homes and bustling markets.

• Tomb of Abakh Hoja (阿巴赫霍贾墓): A significant religious site, housing the remains of Abakh Hoja, an important figure in Uyghur history.

• Kashgar Bazaar (喀什大巴扎): A vibrant market where you can shop for Uyghur textiles, handicrafts, and spices.

Cultural Experience:

• Learn about the Silk Road history and Uyghur culture, which is deeply influenced by Islamic traditions, Central Asian influences, and Chinese culture.

Accommodation:

• Return to your hotel for another night in Kashgar.

Distance: Approx. 70 km (Short city ride)

Duration: Approx. 2-3 hours

Road Condition: Paved city roads.

Route:

• You’ll have a more relaxed day, spending the morning exploring the city of Kashgar in-depth.

• Ride through the old city, which still retains its ancient architecture and maze-like streets.

• Stop by the Id Kah Mosque and other historical landmarks to learn more about Uyghur traditions.

Sightseeing Highlights:

• Kashgar Old City: Wander through the narrow, ancient streets, many of which are unchanged since the Silk Road era.

• The Tomb of Abakh Hoja: Visit this sacred site, which has a fascinating blend of architecture and history.

• Kashgar Bazaar: Explore the bazaar, a great place to observe local life and shop for spices, sweets, and handmade crafts.

• Traditional Uyghur Cuisine: Try local dishes such as laghman (pulled noodles), samsa (meat-filled pastries), and polo (rice pilaf) at one of the many street food stalls.

Accommodation:

• Stay another night in Kashgar.

Distance: Approx. 533 km (272 km + 261 km)

Duration: Approx. 7-8 hours

Road Condition: A mix of paved roads and gravel, with some rough stretches.

Route:

• Depart from Kashgar: You’ll start heading towards Mazar, passing through the Taklamakan Desert (塔克拉玛干沙漠).

• Ride through Desert Terrain: The Taklamakan Desert is one of the largest deserts in the world, and the ride through this area will be remote and sparse, with large stretches of sand dunes, dry riverbeds, and few settlements.

• Yecheng (叶城): Stop for a break in this small town known for its Uyghur culture. Continue the ride towards Mazar.

Scenic Highlights:

• Cross the Taklamakan Desert with its shifting dunes and desert beauty.

• See remote oases along the route, and observe how people live in the desert.

Arrival in Mazar:

• Mazar is a small town along the route, where you will rest and recover from a long day’s ride.

• The town’s quiet atmosphere is a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of Kashgar.

Accommodation:

• Stay at a simple guesthouse in Mazar for the night.

Distance: Approx. 247 km

Duration: Approx. 5-6 hours

Road Condition: Gravel roads and unpaved sections, with some smoother patches as you approach settlements.

Route:

• Depart from Mazar: You’ll continue your journey towards Hongliutan through the desert region, following remote roads with few signs of civilization.

• The landscape will be dominated by vast sand dunes and dry riverbeds, with occasional small desert towns.

• Scenic Desert Views: Ride through stunning desert vistas, where the mountains meet the desert floor in a beautiful fusion of colors.

Arrival in Hongliutan:

• Hongliutan is a small, isolated settlement in the desert, known for its proximity to the Taklamakan Desert.

• After the ride, rest and enjoy the quiet atmosphere of this remote location.

Accommodation:

• Stay at a simple guesthouse in Hongliutan.

Distance: 351 km

Duration: Approx. 7-8 hours

Road Condition: Mostly gravel and rough roads, some paved sections near towns.

Route:

• Start your ride from Hongliutan towards Domar, passing through remote areas of Xinjiang and entering Tibet. The ride will be challenging as you cross mountainous terrain and desert landscapes.

• The road conditions can be rough at times, but the scenery is vast and stunning, with desolate landscapes, rugged hills, and distant mountains.

Scenic Highlights:

• Remote desert expanses and barren highlands with glimpses of snow-capped peaks in the distance.

• Stop at small Tibetan villages and nomadic settlements along the way to experience rural life in this remote region.

Arrival in Domar:

• Domar is a small settlement located in Tibet, known for its simplicity and seclusion.

• You’ll rest here for the night to recharge for the next day's journey.

Accommodation:

• Stay at a simple guesthouse in Domar for the night.

Distance: 231 km

Duration: Approx. 5-6 hours

Road Condition: Gravel roads with some paved sections as you approach Shiquanhe.

Route:

• Depart from Domar and ride towards Shiquanhe, passing through the Tibetan Plateau.

• The journey will take you along winding roads through remote areas, with spectacular views of mountain ranges and river valleys.

• On the way, stop at Bangong Tso Lake (班公措), a beautiful high-altitude lake that offers stunning blue waters surrounded by mountains.

Scenic Highlights:

• Bangong Tso Lake: A tranquil, crystal-clear lake set against the Himalayan backdrop, a perfect spot for a break and some photography.

• Tibetan Plateau landscapes with snow-covered mountains, grasslands, and traditional Tibetan villages.

Arrival in Shiquanhe:

• Shiquanhe is a town located in the Ngari region of Tibet, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.

• This area serves as a gateway to Mount Kailash, one of the holiest sites in Tibetan Buddhism.

Accommodation:

• Stay at the 2-star Guge Wangchao Hotel in Shiquanhe for the night.

Distance: 255 km

Duration: Approx. 5-6 hours

Road Condition: Gravel and dirt roads, some paved stretches near towns.

Route:

• Depart from Shiquanhe and head towards Tsada. Along the way, you will visit two major highlights of the region: the Ruins of Guge Kingdom and Tholing Monastery.

• The ride will pass through the Tibetan desert, with vast, dry landscapes dotted with ancient monasteries and cultural heritage sites.

Scenic Highlights:

• Guge Kingdom Ruins: The Guge Kingdom was an ancient Tibetan kingdom known for its medieval architecture and spiritual significance. The ruins are perched on a hill, offering views of the surrounding desert.

• Tholing Monastery (托林寺): An important Tibetan Buddhist monastery, featuring a unique architecture style with intricate murals and statues.

• Desert landscapes: The road will take you through windswept plains, rocky formations, and distant mountains, evoking the feeling of solitude and remoteness.

Arrival in Tsada:

• Tsada is a small town with a quiet atmosphere, situated near several important Buddhist sites.

Accommodation:

• Stay at Hebei Hotel in Tsada.

Distance: 369 km

Duration: Approx. 7-8 hours

Road Condition: Gravel roads, some paved stretches in populated areas.

Route:

• Leave Tsada and head towards Darchen, which is the base town for the Mount Kailash pilgrimage.

• Along the way, stop to visit the Earth Forest (地球森林), a unique geological formation that resembles tall rock pillars rising from the desert floor.

• Continue your ride to Tirthapuri, a holy site for Tibetan Buddhists and a place of spiritual significance.

Scenic Highlights:

• Earth Forest: A unique geological formation of tall spires and pillars, offering striking contrasts against the surrounding desert landscapes.

• Tirthapuri: A revered pilgrimage site with hot springs and temples surrounded by mountain vistas.

Arrival in Darchen/Kailash:

• Darchen is located at the base of Mount Kailash, one of the most sacred mountains in the world.

• Prepare for the upcoming trek around Mount Kailash, which is an important pilgrimage for followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.

Accommodation:

• Stay at a simple guesthouse in Darchen/Kailash for the night.

Distance: 40 km

Duration: Approx. 1-2 hours

Road Condition: Paved roads leading up to Manasarovar Lake.

Route:

• Ride from Darchen/Kailash to Manasarovar Lake (玛旁雍措), which is considered one of the most sacred lakes in Tibetan Buddhism.

• Once you arrive, take a short trek at the foot of Mount Kailash, soaking in the spiritual energy of the region.

• Then, proceed to Manasarovar Lake, where you can take a peaceful walk around the lake and witness the beauty of the reflecting waters and snow-capped peaks.

Scenic Highlights:

• Manasarovar Lake: The lake’s turquoise waters reflect the Himalayan mountains, creating an ethereal atmosphere. It is a serene spot for reflection and spiritual connection.

• Mount Kailash: The spiritual center for many religions, its majestic peaks offer an imposing and awe-inspiring backdrop.

Accommodation:

• Stay at a simple guesthouse near Manasarovar Lake.

Distance: 520 km (270 km + 250 km)

Duration: Approx. 9-10 hours

Road Condition: Gravel and paved roads, some sections rough.

Route:

• Ride from Manasarovar Lake towards Saga via Paryang.

• This long ride will take you through vast plateaus and remote desert-like landscapes.

• Stop along the way to admire the rugged terrain and desolate beauty of Western Tibet.

Scenic Highlights:

• Tibetan plateau landscapes: The road will take you through barren lands, rugged valleys, and snow-capped peaks.

• Remote Tibetan villages: En route, you’ll pass small settlements where you can see traditional Tibetan life.

Arrival in Saga:

• Saga is a key town in Western Tibet, often serving as a rest stop for travelers en route to Mount Kailash.

Accommodation:

• Stay at Saga Guesthouse for the night.

Distance: Approx. 250 km

Duration: Approx. 5-6 hours

Road Condition: Paved and gravel roads, with a few rough sections as you approach Shigatse.

Route:

• Start your ride from Saga, heading towards Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet.

• The journey will take you across the Tibetan plateau, with stunning views of mountains, wide valleys, and remote villages.

• Along the way, you’ll pass through high-altitude plains and witness the distinct Tibetan rural life.

Scenic Highlights:

• The vast Tibetan Plateau with its unique barren beauty and snow-capped peaks.

• Remote Tibetan villages nestled in the rugged terrain, giving you a glimpse into traditional Tibetan life.

Arrival in Shigatse:

• Shigatse is a bustling town and a cultural hub in Tibet, home to the famous Tashilhunpo Monastery.

• The town has a rich Tibetan heritage and offers many opportunities to explore local markets and traditions.

Accommodation:

• Stay at the 3-star Manasarovar Hotel in Shigatse.

Distance: 90 km

Duration: Approx. 2 hours

Road Condition: Mostly paved roads, some rural gravel sections.

Route:

• Depart from Shigatse and ride towards Gyantse, a historic town famous for its Buddhist heritage.

• En route, visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery (扎什伦布寺) in Shigatse, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama.

• Continue your ride to Gyantse, a town famous for its Pelkor Monastery and the Kumbum Stupa, both of which are important landmarks in Tibetan Buddhism.

Scenic Highlights:

• Tashilhunpo Monastery: One of Tibet’s most important monasteries, offering an incredible collection of statues, thangkas, and tibetan art.

• Gyantse: Explore Pelkor Monastery with its impressive Kumbum Stupa (a multi-tiered pagoda) and Tsong Burg, offering stunning views of the surrounding valley and mountain landscape.

Arrival in Gyantse:

• Gyantse is a charming Tibetan town known for its historical significance and beautiful monasteries.

• The town is also a great place to explore traditional Tibetan architecture.

Accommodation:

• Stay at the 3-star Yeti Hotel in Gyantse.

Distance: 260 km

Duration: Approx. 6-7 hours

Road Condition: Paved roads with occasional gravel sections, some challenging terrain as you approach Yamdrok Lake and Lhasa.

Route:

• Depart from Gyantse and ride towards Lhasa, passing Yamdrok Lake (羊卓雍措) along the way.

• Yamdrok Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Tibet, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and known for its turquoise-blue waters.

• The road to Lhasa takes you across the Tibetan Plateau, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.

Scenic Highlights:

• Yamdrok Lake: The lake is sacred in Tibetan culture, often visited by pilgrims who believe the water has healing properties. The lake’s shimmering blue waters are a photographer's paradise, set against the backdrop of snowy mountains.

• The vast Tibetan Plateau landscape, dotted with nomadic tents, villages, and mountainous vistas.

Arrival in Lhasa:

• Lhasa, the spiritual capital of Tibet, is home to many important Buddhist sites, including the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple.

Accommodation:

• Stay at the 3-star Yak Hotel in Lhasa for the next three nights.

Description:

• Today, explore Lhasa, the heart of Tibetan Buddhism and Tibetan culture.

• Start with a visit to the Potala Palace (布达拉宫), the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama, which sits majestically on the hill, offering breathtaking views of Lhasa.

• Visit the Jokhang Temple (大昭寺), one of the most sacred temples in Tibet, and Barkhor Street (八廓街), a bustling pilgrimage route surrounded by local shops and street vendors.

Scenic Highlights:

• Potala Palace: The architectural masterpiece of Tibetan Buddhist architecture, featuring intricately painted walls, temples, and rooms.

• Jokhang Temple: The most revered Tibetan Buddhist temple in the world, housing the sacred Jokhang Buddha.

• Barkhor Street: A bustling market area where you’ll find Tibetan crafts, religious artifacts, and traditional souvenirs.

Accommodation:

• Stay at the 3-star Yak Hotel in Lhasa.

Description:

• On this day, continue your exploration of Lhasa.

• Visit Drepung Monastery (哲蚌寺), one of the largest Tibetan monasteries, and Norbulingka (囊谦), the traditional summer residence of the Dalai Lama.

• Finish your day with a visit to Sera Monastery (色拉寺), famous for its daily monastic debates and stunning views of the Lhasa Valley.

Scenic Highlights:

• Drepung Monastery: A massive monastery with a rich history and impressive architecture, once home to thousands of monks.

• Norbulingka: A beautiful park and palace that served as the Dalai Lama's summer residence, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of Lhasa.

• Sera Monastery: Renowned for its intellectual debates among monks, and offering panoramic views of Lhasa.

Accommodation:

• Stay at the 3-star Yak Hotel in Lhasa.

Distance: Approx. 300 km

Duration: Approx. 6 hours

Road Condition: Mix of paved and gravel roads, with a few rough sections as you move into the more remote parts of Tibet.

Route:

• Depart from Lhasa and begin the journey towards Lhatse, a town located on the Tibetan Plateau.

• The route offers scenic views of Tibetan villages, open plains, and rugged mountains as you travel south.

• Along the way, you’ll pass through small towns and nomadic settlements, immersing yourself in the traditional Tibetan way of life.

Scenic Highlights:

• Ride through the Tibetan Plateau, with views of snow-capped peaks and mountain ranges.

• Remote villages and nomadic camps, where Tibetan families live in harmony with nature.

Arrival in Lhatse:

• Lhatse is a small town, known for its Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and its role as a base for travelers heading towards Everest.

Accommodation:

• Stay at the 2-star Nongmin Hotel in Lhatse.

Distance: Approx. 300 km

Duration: Approx. 7-8 hours

Road Condition: Paved and gravel roads, with some rough terrain as you get closer to Rongbuk Monastery.

Route:

• Begin your ride from Lhatse and travel towards Shegar and Old Tingri, passing through winding mountain roads and high-altitude plains.

• Shegar is a small Tibetan settlement, known as a stopover for travelers on their way to Everest Base Camp.

• Continue the ride to Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world, which offers breathtaking views of Mount Everest.

Scenic Highlights:

• Ride through the Tibetan Plateau, offering panoramic views of Himalayan peaks and remote Tibetan villages.

• Rongbuk Monastery: The highest monastery in the world, offering unparalleled views of Mount Everest from the northern side.

• The base camp area offers spectacular vistas of Everest in all its majesty.

Arrival in Rongbuk:

• Rongbuk Monastery is a place of immense spiritual significance, and it is also a popular base for trekkers aiming to reach Everest Base Camp.

Accommodation:

• Stay at the simple Rongbuk Guesthouse, located near the monastery, for an authentic Tibetan guesthouse experience.

Distance: 255 km

Duration: Approx. 6-7 hours

Road Condition: Mix of paved and gravel roads, with rough sections as you approach Paiku Tso Lake and Kyirong.

Route:

• Begin the ride from Rongbuk and travel towards Kyirong, passing through Paiku Tso Lake, a stunning high-altitude lake surrounded by mountain peaks.

• The ride offers great views of snow-capped mountains, blue skies, and the serene lake waters.

• As you descend towards Kyirong, the landscape changes, offering a glimpse of Nepalese influence as you approach the border.

Scenic Highlights:

• Paiku Tso Lake: A picturesque lake nestled in the Tibetan Plateau, surrounded by high mountain peaks.

• The desolate beauty of the Tibetan Highlands gives way to more lush valleys as you approach Kyirong.

Arrival in Kyirong:

• Kyirong is a border town located near the Nepal-China border, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.

• It’s the last stop in China before crossing into Nepal.

Accommodation:

• Stay in Kyirong for one night, as you prepare to cross the border into Nepal.

Description:

• After your adventure across the Tibetan Plateau, it’s time to exit China and cross into Nepal.

• Your guide will assist with the border crossing process at the Kyirong port, ensuring all customs and immigration procedures are taken care of.

• This marks the end of your motorbike journey through China and Tibet.

• Once in Nepal, you will be greeted by Nepalese landscapes, and the continuation of your travels can explore Kathmandu or other destinations in Nepal.

Service Ends:

• The motorbike journey concludes here, as you cross into Nepal and the adventure comes to a close.