5 Days Kyrgyzstan-China-Xinjiang-Pakistan Motorbike Tour from Irkeshtam to Konjerab

Embark on a 5-day Kyrgyzstan-China-Xinjiang-Pakistan Motorbike Tour that takes you across some of the most remote and breathtaking regions in Central Asia and the Karakoram Range. Starting from the Irkeshtam Border in Kyrgyzstan, you’ll ride through the rugged landscapes of Xinjiang in China, explore historic Silk Road cities, and experience the high-altitude beauty of the Karakoram Highway leading into Pakistan.

This high-altitude adventure offers thrilling motorbike riding on diverse terrains, from high mountain passes to serene lakes and vast steppes. You’ll witness a mixture of Kyrgyz, Uyghur, Tajik, and Pakistani cultures, ride through ancient Silk Road towns, and make your way to the Khunjerab Pass, the highest paved international border crossing in the world.

Key Features:

Cross into China via the Irkeshtam Border and explore Xinjiang’s diverse culture.

Visit Kashgar, a key Silk Road city with its famous bazaar, Id Kah Mosque, and ancient city.

Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Karakul Lake beneath Mustagh-Ata mountain.

Ride to Taxkorgan, known for its Tajik culture and ancient Stone City Ruins.

Conclude your journey at the Khunjerab Pass, the highest international border between China and Pakistan.

The tour combines exhilarating motorbike riding, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural experiences, making it perfect for adventure seekers, photography enthusiasts, and cultural explorers.


Tour Highlights

1. Irkeshtam (Kyrgyzstan)

The Gateway to China

Border Crossing: Start your journey by crossing the Irkeshtam Border, a stunning gateway between Kyrgyzstan and China, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

Activity: Experience the thrill of crossing a high-altitude border, with panoramic views of the surrounding Pamir Mountains.

2. Kashgar (China)

A Historic Silk Road City

Key Attractions:

  • Id Kah Mosque: The largest mosque in China and a key symbol of Uyghur culture.

  • Kashgar Bazaar: Explore the vibrant market where Uyghur merchants sell traditional goods, spices, and crafts.

  • Tomb of Abakh Hoja: A historical site of great significance to Uyghur Muslims.

  • Old City: Discover ancient Uyghur architecture with narrow lanes and traditional mud-brick houses.

Cultural Experience: Kashgar offers an immersive experience in Uyghur culture, with its traditional markets, architecture, and cuisine.

3. Karakul Lake (China)

High-Altitude Serenity

Key Feature: Karakul Lake is a stunning, high-altitude lake situated at the foot of Mustagh-Ata, one of the highest peaks in the Pamir Mountains.

Activity: Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, perfect for photography and reflection. The tranquil waters of the lake mirror the towering peaks around it, making it a photographer’s paradise.

4. Taxkorgan (China)

A Remote Tajik Town

Key Features:

  • Stone City Ruins: An archaeological site of ancient Silk Road settlements, offering insight into the region’s history.

  • Tajik Culture: Explore the Tajik lifestyle and architecture in this remote town, located at the edge of the Karakoram mountains.

Activity: Visit the Stone City Ruins and immerse yourself in the local Tajik culture while enjoying views of the rugged mountain landscapes.

5. Khunjerab Pass (Pakistan)

The Highest International Border Crossing

Key Feature: Khunjerab Pass, located at an altitude of 4,693 meters (15,397 feet), is the highest paved international border crossing in the world.

Activity: Cross into Pakistan through the Khunjerab Pass, completing your epic journey. The pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding Karakoram Range and marks the end of this breathtaking motorbike adventure.

Tour Destinations:
(Kyrgyzstan) – Irkeshtam – Kashgar – Karakuli Lake – Taxkorgan – Khunjerab – (Pakistan)

Entrance Customs into China: Irkeshtam

Exit Customs from China: Khunjerab

Enter China from (Land Name): Kyrgyzstan

Leave China to (Land Name): Pakistan

Itinerary

Day 1: Irkeshtam to Kashgar (Entering China)

Distance: Approx. 234 km
Duration: Approx. 3 hrs 30 min
Road Conditions:

Kyrgyzstan to China: The road from Irkeshtam to Kashgar is mostly paved, but expect some rough stretches nearing the Irkeshtam border. There may also be a few delays due to customs and security checks.

Attractions & Activities

Irkeshtam Border Crossing (伊尔克什塔姆口岸)

Start your adventure at the Irkeshtam border, marking the entry point from Kyrgyzstan to China.

The crossing offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. Be prepared for customs procedures, which may take some time due to formalities.

Journey to Kashgar (喀什)

After clearing customs, head towards Kashgar.

As you ride, enjoy the sweeping views of the Karakoram Mountains and vast open valleys, gradually entering the Xinjiang region of China.

Accommodation: Stay at 4 Barony Hotel*, Kashgar for 3 nights.


Day 2: Kashgar – Vehicle Check and Documentation

Road Conditions:

Local roads within Kashgar are well-paved, but traffic can be heavy near city centers and tourist attractions.

Attractions & Activities

Vehicle Check and Documentation

On this day, take care of the necessary paperwork for your motorbike.

  • Get a temporary license plate and driving license for your motorbike to ride within China.

Free Time to Explore Kashgar

After completing the documentation, enjoy some leisure time exploring Kashgar.

Wander around the city’s historical sites and local markets, absorbing the vibrant Uyghur culture.

Accommodation: Stay at 4 Barony Hotel*, Kashgar.


Day 3: Kashgar – City Sightseeing

Distance: Approx. 70 km
Road Conditions:

Kashgar Local Roads: Easy to navigate, smooth, well-paved roads. Expect minor traffic, particularly near the historical sites.

Attractions & Activities

Kashgar Bazaar (喀什集市)

Visit Kashgar’s Bazaar, where Uyghur traders sell everything from spices to textiles, making it one of the most bustling marketplaces in Central Asia.

A great place to experience local life, exchange stories, and buy unique souvenirs.

Old City of Kashgar (喀什老城)

Ride through the Old City of Kashgar, characterized by narrow lanes, traditional Uyghur architecture, and vibrant street scenes.

This area is a living testament to Kashgar’s historical role as a center of the Silk Road.

Id Kah Mosque (艾提尕尔清真寺)

Visit the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in China, known for its grand architecture and vibrant atmosphere during prayers. It’s an important religious site for the Uyghur people.

Tomb of Abakh Hoja (阿巴克霍加墓)

Explore the Tomb of Abakh Hoja, the burial site of a prominent religious figure, offering both historical and architectural significance.

Accommodation: Stay at 4 Barony Hotel*, Kashgar.


Day 4: Kashgar to Karakuli Lake and Taxkorgan

Distance: Approx. 292 km
Duration: Approx. 6.5 hrs
Road Conditions:

The road to Karakuli Lake is mostly paved, but expect some rougher sections as you near the lake.

The road to Taxkorgan (塔什库尔干) features winding mountain passes with some challenging terrain.

Attractions & Activities

Karakuli Lake (卡拉库里湖)

Ride to Karakuli Lake, a high-altitude, picturesque lake located at the foot of Mustagh-Ata Mountain. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, providing one of the most serene landscapes for photographs and relaxation.

Take a break to enjoy the serene beauty of the lake.

Stone City Ruins (石头城遗址)

Continue your journey towards Taxkorgan. On the way, explore the Stone City Ruins, remnants of an ancient city with historical and archaeological significance.

The ruins provide a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural heritage and its connection to ancient civilizations.

Accommodation: Stay at 2 Benleixin Hotel*, Taxkorgan.


Day 5: Taxkorgan to Khunjerab Pass (Exit China and Enter Pakistan)

Distance: Approx. 140 km
Duration: Approx. 3 hrs
Road Conditions:

The road from Taxkorgan to Khunjerab Pass is paved but winding. The terrain becomes more challenging as you approach the high-altitude pass. Weather conditions can be cold, especially near the top.

Attractions & Activities

Khunjerab Pass (红其拉甫口岸)

Ride towards Khunjerab Pass, one of the highest international border crossings in the world at an elevation of over 4,700 meters (15,400 feet).

Marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of the Karakoram Range as you approach the pass. This is a major highlight of your journey.

Customs Formalities

Complete the final customs formalities at Khunjerab Pass and officially exit China. Your ride through Xinjiang concludes here.

Enter Pakistan

After completing the border crossing, you will enter Pakistan. This marks the end of your China segment of the journey.


End of Services

Services conclude after crossing into Pakistan at Khunjerab Pass.

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.