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

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

  1. Gyirong Border: Start your journey at the Gyirong Border, with panoramic views of the Himalayas marking the transition from Nepal to Tibet.
  2. Tibetan Plateau: Experience the expansive Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its dramatic high-altitude landscapes and distinct Tibetan culture.
  3. 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.
  4. Lake Manasarovar: See the serene Lake Manasarovar, one of Tibet’s holiest lakes, which is a major pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. Tian Shan Mountains: Cross the Tian Shan Mountains, enjoying breathtaking scenery and challenging riding conditions.
  8. Irrigation System: Witness the traditional irrigation systems and ancient trade routes that highlight the region’s historical significance.
  9. Irekeshtam Border: End your journey at the Irkeshtam Border, the gateway between China and Kyrgyzstan, concluding your epic ride.

Motorcycling Travel Tips

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. Respect Local Customs:
    • Be respectful of local cultures, traditions, and regulations. Avoid sensitive political discussions and follow local customs and guidelines.
  8. 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.
  9. Mechanical Skills:
    • Basic mechanical skills for on-the-road repairs are valuable. Familiarize yourself with your bike’s mechanics and practice basic repairs.
  10. 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