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

This 15-day motorbike tour takes you from Irkeshtam in Kyrgyzstan through the Xinjiang region of China, into Tibet, and finally to Nepal. It’s a journey through diverse landscapes, including arid deserts, rugged mountains, and high-altitude plateaus, offering a unique blend of cultural and natural experiences.

Trip Highlights

  1. Scenic Routes in Xinjiang: Experience the stunning landscapes of Xinjiang, including the Taklamakan Desert and the Tianshan Mountains.
  2. Kashgar: Explore this historic Silk Road city known for its vibrant markets and rich cultural heritage.
  3. Pamir Plateau: Ride through one of the highest and most remote regions in the world, offering breathtaking views and a sense of adventure.
  4. Tibetan Plateau: Traverse the high-altitude Tibetan Plateau with its unique culture, monasteries, and landscapes.
  5. Gyirong: End the journey in Gyirong, a gateway to Nepal with stunning views of the Himalayas and an introduction to Tibetan culture.

Motorcycling Travel Tips

  1. Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary visas and permits for China, Tibet, and Nepal. Special permits are required for travel in Tibet.
  2. Weather Preparedness: Prepare for varying weather conditions, from hot deserts in Xinjiang to cold high-altitude areas in Tibet. Dress in layers and be ready for sudden changes.
  3. Bike Preparation: Ensure your motorbike is in top condition and suited for rough terrains. Carry spare parts and tools for minor repairs.
  4. Altitude Adjustment: Be aware of altitude sickness when crossing high mountain passes in Tibet. Acclimatize properly and stay hydrated.
  5. Local Customs and Regulations: Respect local customs and regulations, especially in Tibet and Nepal. Follow local traffic laws and guidelines.
  6. Health and Safety: Carry a basic first-aid kit and be aware of health facilities along your route. Have travel insurance that covers motorbike touring and high-altitude travel.

Tour Destinations:

(Kyrgyzstan) – Irkeshtam – Kashgar – Mazar – Hongliutan – Domar – Shiquanhe – Tsada – Kailash – Manasarovar – Saga – Paiku Tso – Old Tingri – Rongbuk / Everest – Old Tingri – Paiku Tso – Kyirong – (Nepal)

  • Entrance Customs into China: Irkeshtam
  • Exit Customs from China: Kyirong
  • Enter China from (Land Name): Kyrgyzstan
  • Leave China to (Land Name): Nepal

Highlights

  • On the “roof of the world” from Xinjiang to Tibet
  • Wild Western Tibet with Guge-Ruins, Manasarovar, and Kailash
  • Spectacular Everest north side with Monastery Rongbuk
  • The great mountain world of the Himalayas

Itinerary

Day 1: Enter China, ride Irkeshtam – Kashgar

  • Distance: Approx. 234km to Kashgar
  • Duration: Approx. 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Description:
    • Arrive at Irkeshtam port between China and Kyrgyzstan.
    • Meet with the guide and leading car at the Chinese border.
    • Cross approx. 110km of no man’s land and then get to the Irkeshtam border.
    • Guide assists with custom formalities (this procedure can be time-consuming).
    • Ride to Kashgar.
    • Accommodation: 3 nights in Kashgar

Day 2: Kashgar

  • Description:
    • Assist with custom formalities and car check.
    • Obtain your temporary driving license and vehicle tag.
    • Accommodation: 2nd night in Kashgar

Day 3: Kashgar

  • Distance: 70km
  • Description:
    • City sightseeing.
    • Visit the bazaar, the old city area of Kashgar, Id Kah Mosque, and the Tomb of Abakh Hoja.
    • Accommodation: 3rd night in Kashgar

Day 4: Kashgar – Yecheng – Mazar

  • Distance: 272km + 261km
  • Accommodation: 1 night at a simple guesthouse

Day 5: Mazar – Hongliutan

  • Distance: 247km
  • Accommodation: 1 night at a simple guesthouse

Day 6: Hongliutan – Domar

  • Distance: 351km
  • Accommodation: 1 night at a simple guesthouse

Day 7: Domar – Bangong Tso – Shiquanhe

  • Distance: 231km
  • Accommodation: 1 night at 2* Guge Wangchao Hotel

Day 8: Shiquanhe – Tsada

  • Distance: 255km
  • Description:
    • Trip to the Ruins of Guge Kingdom and Tholing Monastery.
    • Accommodation: 1 night at simple Hebei Hotel

Day 9: Tsada – Earth Forest – Tirthapuri – Darchen/Kailash

  • Distance: 369km
  • Accommodation: 1 night at a simple guesthouse

Day 10: Darchen/Kailash – Manasarovar Lake

  • Distance: 40km
  • Description:
    • Short trekking at the foot of Mt. Kailash.
    • Ride to Manasarovar Lake and take a walk.
    • Accommodation: 1 night at a simple guesthouse

Day 11: Manasarovar Lake – Paryang – Saga

  • Distance: 270km + 250km
  • Accommodation: 1 night at a simple Saga Guesthouse

Day 12: Saga – Paiku Tso Lake – Old Tingri

  • Distance: 280km
  • Accommodation: 1 night at a simple Snow Leopard Guesthouse

Day 13: Old Tingri – Rongbuk Monastery / Everest

  • Distance: 70km (sand road)
  • Accommodation: 1 night at a simple Rongbuk Guesthouse

Day 14: Rongbuk Monastery – Paiku Tso Lake – Kyirong

  • Distance: 255km (sand road and asphalt road)
  • Accommodation: 1 night at 2* Kyirong Hotel

Day 15: Kyirong exit into Nepal

  • Description:
    • Exit China into Nepal.
    • Note: Service ends in China.