14 Days Nepal-China (Tibet-Xinjiang)-Kyrghyzstan Motorbike Tour with Mount Kailash from Gyirong to Irkeshtam
Tour Overview
The 14-day motorbike tour from Gyirong, Nepal, through Tibet, Xinjiang, and into Kyrgyzstan offers a dramatic journey across diverse landscapes and cultures. This adventure includes a visit to the...
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)
Departure City:
Price of Tour: Request
Type of Tour:
Features of Tour:
The 14-day motorbike tour from Gyirong, Nepal, through Tibet, Xinjiang, and into Kyrgyzstan offers a dramatic journey across diverse landscapes and cultures. This adventure includes a visit to the sacred Mount Kailash, explores the vast Tibetan Plateau, and traverses the rugged terrain of Xinjiang before crossing into Kyrgyzstan. The tour provides a blend of spiritual discovery, high-altitude riding, and cultural exploration, showcasing some of the most spectacular and remote regions in Central Asia.
Trip Highlights
- Gyirong Border: Start your journey at the Gyirong Border, with panoramic views of the Himalayas marking the transition from Nepal to Tibet.
- Tibetan Plateau: Experience the expansive Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its dramatic high-altitude landscapes and distinct Tibetan culture.
- Mount Kailash: Visit the sacred Mount Kailash, a revered pilgrimage site in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. Circumambulating Kailash is considered a spiritually significant journey.
- Lake Manasarovar: See the serene Lake Manasarovar, one of Tibet’s holiest lakes, which is a major pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
- Lhasa: Explore Lhasa, the spiritual and administrative capital of Tibet, including:
- Potala Palace: The historic winter residence of the Dalai Lama.
- Jokhang Temple: Tibet’s most sacred temple.
- Barkhor Street: A vibrant market area surrounding Jokhang Temple.
- Xinjiang Province: Ride through Xinjiang, experiencing its diverse culture and landscapes, including:
- Urumqi: The regional capital known for its vibrant markets and cultural diversity.
- Kashgar: An ancient Silk Road city with its bustling bazaar and historic architecture.
- Tian Shan Mountains: Cross the Tian Shan Mountains, enjoying breathtaking scenery and challenging riding conditions.
- Irrigation System: Witness the traditional irrigation systems and ancient trade routes that highlight the region’s historical significance.
- Irekeshtam Border: End your journey at the Irkeshtam Border, the gateway between China and Kyrgyzstan, concluding your epic ride.
Motorcycling Travel Tips
- Documentation:
- Ensure all necessary visas, permits, and paperwork are in order, including permits for Tibet and China. Carry multiple copies of your documents, such as passport, visa, and permits.
- Bike Preparation:
- Ensure your motorbike is in excellent condition and suitable for high-altitude and long-distance travel. Carry essential spare parts, tools, and a repair kit.
- Altitude Acclimatization:
- Allow for gradual acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness, especially in Tibet. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and rest properly. Be aware of symptoms and know how to respond.
- Weather Preparation:
- Be prepared for varied weather conditions, from cold, high-altitude weather in Tibet to more temperate conditions in Xinjiang and Kyrgyzstan. Dress in layers and bring weatherproof gear.
- Navigation and Communication:
- Use reliable maps and GPS devices. Consider hiring local guides for challenging or culturally sensitive areas. Ensure you have communication means like a satellite phone or local SIM cards.
- Health and Safety:
- Carry a comprehensive first-aid kit and any necessary medications. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers high-altitude motorbike touring and medical evacuation.
- Respect Local Customs:
- Be respectful of local cultures, traditions, and regulations. Avoid sensitive political discussions and follow local customs and guidelines.
- Fuel and Supplies:
- Plan fuel stops carefully, especially in remote areas. Carry extra fuel if possible. Stock up on supplies, including food and water, as facilities can be sparse in certain regions.
- Mechanical Skills:
- Basic mechanical skills for on-the-road repairs are valuable. Familiarize yourself with your bike’s mechanics and practice basic repairs.
- Cultural Sensitivity:
- Engage respectfully with local communities and understand cultural norms. Avoid sensitive topics and be mindful of local regulations.
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
Highlights
- The great mountain world of Himalaya
- Spectacular Everest north side with Monastery Rongbuk
- Wild Western Tibet with Kailash, Manasarovar, and Guge Ruins
- On the “roof of the world” from Tibet to Xinjiang
Itinerary
Day 1: Entry at Kyirong (2600m)
- Description:
- Arrive at Kyirong port between China and Nepal.
- Meet the leading car and your guide at the Chinese border.
- Guide will assist with custom formalities.
- Accommodation: 2N in Kyirong
Day 2: Kyirong
- Description:
- Rest day to adapt to the altitude environment.
Day 3: Kyirong – Paiku Tso – Shegar (4300m)
- Distance: 255km
- Road Condition: Sand road + asphalt road
- Description:
- Ride to Shegar via Paiku Tso.
- Accommodation: 1N in Shegar
Day 4: Shegar – Rongbuk Monastery / Everest (4980m)
- Distance: 100km
- Road Condition: Sand road
- Description:
- Ride to Rongbuk Monastery.
- Accommodation: 1N at Rongbuk Monastery
Day 5: Rongbuk Monastery – Shegar (New Tingri) – Lhatse – Shigatse (3868m)
- Distance: Approx. 390km
- Road Condition: 100km (sand road) + 290km (asphalt road)
- Description:
- Ride to Shigatse via Shegar and Lhatse.
- Accommodation: 2N in Shigatse
Day 6: Shigatse
- Description:
- Apply for the temporary vehicle plate and driving license.
- Visit the Tashilunpo Monastery if time permits.
Day 7: Shigatse – Lhatse (4012m) – Saga (4504m)
- Distance: 190km + 281km
- Road Condition: Asphalt road
- Description:
- Ride to Saga via Lhatse.
- Accommodation: 1N in Saga
Day 8: Saga – Paryang (4598m) – Manasarovar Lake
- Distance: 250km + 270km
- Description:
- Ride to Manasarovar Lake via Paryang.
- Accommodation: 1N at a simple guest house
Day 9: Manasarovar Lake – Darchen/Kailash (4560m) – Tsada
- Distance: 268km
- Description:
- Short trekking at the foot of Mt. Kailash.
- Ride to Tsada.
- Accommodation: 1N in Tsada
Day 10: Tsada – Shiquanhe (4255m)
- Distance: 255km
- Description:
- Visit the ruins of Guge Kingdom and the Toelin Monastery in Tsada.
- Ride to Shiquanhe.
- Accommodation: 1N in Shiquanhe
Day 11: Shiquanhe – Bagong Tso – Domar – Jieshan Daban (6700m) – Hongliutan (4190m)
- Distance: 581km
- Duration: Approx. 9 hours
- Description:
- Detour to Palgon Tso Lake.
- Ride to Hongliutan via Bagong Tso, Domar, and Jieshan Daban.
- Accommodation: 1N in Hongliutan
Day 12: Hongliutan – Mazar – Yecheng
- Distance: Approx. 490km
- Duration: Approx. 9 hours 32 minutes
- Description:
- Ride to Yecheng via Mazar.
- Accommodation: 1N in Yecheng
Day 13: Yecheng – Kashgar
- Distance: 244km
- Duration: Approx. 3 hours 26 minutes
- Description:
- Ride to Kashgar.
- Visit the Akba Khojia Mausoleum.
- Walk through the streets of the old city.
- Accommodation: 1N in Kashgar
Day 14: Kashgar – Irkeshtam – Kyrgyzstan
- Distance: 234km
- Description:
- Ride to the customs of Irkeshtam.
- Assist with exit formalities.
- Note: Service ends in China