18 Days Laos-China-Nepal Self-Driving Tour from Yunnan Mohan to Tibet Gyrong

Tour Overview

This 18-day self-driving adventure takes you from the lush tropics of Yunnan, China, through the culturally rich and scenic regions of Tibet, ending in the border town of Gyirong,...

Code of Tour: CDT0000090166

Length of Travel: 18 Day

Destinations of Tour: Mohan-Jinghong-Dali-Lijaing- Dali-Shangri-la-Deqin-Mangkang- Zuogong-Ranwu-Bomi-Nyingchi- Lhasa-Shigatse-Dingri- Mt Everest-Gyirong

Departure City: Xishuangbanna

Price of Tour: Request

Type of Tour:

Features of Tour:

More Map & Picture

This 18-day self-driving adventure takes you from the lush tropics of Yunnan, China, through the culturally rich and scenic regions of Tibet, ending in the border town of Gyirong, Nepal. The tour offers a diverse range of experiences, from vibrant ethnic villages and ancient towns to breathtaking natural landscapes and sacred Buddhist sites.

Starting at Mohan on the Laos-China border, you will drive through the scenic and culturally diverse province of Yunnan, visiting notable sites such as the China Tropical Botanic Garden, Dali Ancient City, and Lijiang Ancient Town. The journey continues to the Tibetan plateau, where you will experience the dramatic landscapes of Tiger Leaping Gorge, Shangri-La, and the majestic Meili Snow Mountain.

As you traverse the mountainous roads, the tour takes you through the heart of Tibet, including stops at Ranwu Lake and the picturesque town of Nyingchi. In Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet, you’ll visit iconic landmarks like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. The journey proceeds through historical towns like Gyantse and Shigatse, offering glimpses of traditional Tibetan culture and architecture.

One of the highlights of the trip is the drive to the base of Mt. Everest, providing an unforgettable experience at the world’s highest peak. The adventure concludes with a drive to Gyirong, the gateway to Nepal, marking the end of an epic journey through some of the most remote and beautiful regions of China and Tibet.

Key Highlights

China Tropical Botanic Garden: Explore a vast collection of tropical plants.
Lijiang Ancient Town: Wander through a UNESCO World Heritage site with rich history.
Tiger Leaping Gorge: Trek through one of the world’s deepest gorges.
Dali Ancient City: Discover well-preserved ancient architecture and vibrant local culture.
Shangri-La: Experience the Tibetan culture and stunning landscapes.
Meili Snow Mountain: Marvel at the sacred mountain and its breathtaking views.
Ranwu Lake: Enjoy the serene beauty of this remote lake.
Nyingchi Basongcuo Lake: Visit a stunning high-altitude lake.
Lhasa Potala Palace: Explore the iconic palace and symbol of Tibetan Buddhism.
Jokhang Temple: Visit the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism.
Tashilunpo Monastery: Discover the seat of the Panchen Lama.
Mt Everest: Experience the grandeur of the world’s highest peak.
Gyirong Port: Cross the border into Nepal, completing your adventure.

China Self-Driving Travel Tips

Ensure all travel documents, including visas and permits, are in order.
Obtain an international driving permit.
Familiarize yourself with local driving laws and road conditions.
Be prepared for varying altitudes and climate conditions.
Pack essentials such as a first aid kit, extra fuel, and vehicle repair tools.
Respect local customs and traditions.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 01: Mohan/Mengna

Activities: Enter China, complete entry procedures, drive to Mengna, handle vehicle and driving license process, optional visit to local ethnic minority villages.
Distance: N/A
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 02: Mengna/Mengxing/Jinghong

Activities: Finish vehicle and driving license procedures, visit Menglun Tropical Botanic Garden, optional visit to Ganlanba Village.
Distance: 150km
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 03: Jinghong—Puer—Nanjian

Activities: Drive through mountains, villages, fields, and tea gardens.
Distance: 480km
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 04: Nanjian—Dali—Lijiang

Activities: Visit Dali ancient city and Erhai Lake, drive to Lijiang.
Distance: 305km
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 05: Lijiang

Activities: Relax and explore Lijiang Ancient Town.
Distance: N/A
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 06: Lijiang—Tiger Leaping Gorge—Shangri-la

Activities: Trekking at Tiger Leaping Gorge, drive to Shangri-la.
Distance: 180km
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 07: Shangri-la—Deqin

Activities: Visit Songzanlin Temple, view Mt. Kawa Kapor, Minyong Glacier.
Distance: 184km
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 08: Deqin—Mangkang

Activities: Drive through mountain roads, rising altitude.
Distance: 240km
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 09: Mangkang—Basu

Activities: Challenging drive with slopes and turns.
Distance: 360km
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 10: Basu—Ranwu

Activities: Visit rural villages, Ranwu Lake, and glacier.
Distance: 90km
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 11: Ranwu—Bomi—Nyingchi

Activities: Scenic drive, view Namcha Barwa, forests, mountains.
Distance: 350km
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 12: Nyingchi—Lhasa

Activities: Visit Basongcuo Lake, drive to Lhasa.
Distance: 460km
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 13: Lhasa

Activities: Visit Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street.
Distance: N/A
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 14: Lhasa—Gyantse

Activities: Visit Yamdrok Lake, drive to Gyantse, visit Pango Chorten.
Distance: N/A
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 15: Gyantse—Shigatse—Lhaze

Activities: Visit Tashilunpo Monastery, drive to Lhaze.
Distance: 260km
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 16: Lhaze—Mt. Everest

Activities: Drive to Mt Everest, visit the highest place in the world.
Distance: 180km
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 17: Mt. Everest—Dingri—Gyirong

Activities: Morning walk at Mt Everest, drive to Gyirong.
Distance: 340km
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 18: Gyirong—Nepal

Activities: Drive to Gyirong border port, complete exit process, enter Nepal.
Distance: 30km
Accommodation: N/A

Notes

Itinerary may be tight for some guests. Adjustments can be made for a more relaxed pace.
Customized tours available based on personal preferences.
Group tours need to consider the needs of all participants. Contact for more details on routes, road conditions, and driving times.