19 Days Nepal-China Tibet-Nepal Motorbike Tour with Kailash and Everest from Gyirong Border

The 19-day motorbike tour from the Gyirong Border offers an incredible adventure through Nepal and Tibet, including visits to the sacred Mount Kailash and the awe-inspiring Everest Base Camp. This tour takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Himalayas, providing a unique blend of cultural exploration, spiritual discovery, and thrilling riding experiences. Starting and ending in Nepal, you will journey through the Tibetan Plateau, experiencing the heart of Tibetan Buddhism and the natural grandeur of the region.

Trip Highlights

  1. Gyirong Border: Start your journey at the Gyirong Border, the gateway between Nepal and Tibet, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.
  2. Tibetan Plateau: Traverse the vast and high-altitude Tibetan Plateau, known for its unique landscape, culture, and spiritual significance.
  3. Mount Kailash: Visit the sacred Mount Kailash, revered in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. Pilgrims believe that circumambulating Kailash on foot is a holy ritual that will bring good fortune.
  4. Lake Manasarovar: Witness the serene beauty of Lake Manasarovar, considered one of the holiest lakes in Tibet, and an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.
  5. Everest Base Camp: Experience the majestic view of Mount Everest from the Tibetan side, a highlight of any trip to the Himalayas. The base camp offers unparalleled views of the world’s highest peak.
  6. Lhasa: Explore the spiritual heart of Tibet, including the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street, immersing yourself in Tibetan culture and Buddhism.
  7. Yamdrok Lake: See the stunning turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
  8. Shigatse: Visit Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet, and explore the Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama.
  9. Rongbuk Monastery: Located near Everest Base Camp, this monastery is the highest in the world and offers spectacular views of Mount Everest.

Tour Destinations:
19 Days | (Nepal) – Kyirong – Paiku Tso – Shegar – Rongbuk/Everest – Shegar – Lhatse – Shigatse – Gyantse – Yamdrok – Lhasa – Nam Tso – Serling Tso – Nyima – Dong Tso – Gertse – Gerkyi – Shiquanhe – Tsada – Darchen / Kailash – Manasarovar – Saga – Kyirong – (Nepal)

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

Highlights

  • The great mountain world of the Himalayas
  • Spectacular Everest north side and Rongbuk Monastery
  • Visits to Shigatse, Gyantse, and Lhasa
  • Adventurous ride from central Tibet across Northern Tibet Qiangtang to Kailash in West Tibet
  • Wild animals, birds, and lakes in Qiangtang
  • Ruins of Guge Kingdom
  • Short walk at holy mountain Kailash
  • Walk by the holy lake Manasarovar

Itinerary

Day 1: Kyirong

  • Description:
    • Enter China from Kyirong border.
    • Meet with your Tibetan guide and complete custom formalities.
    • Accommodation: 1N in Kyirong

Day 2: Kyirong – Paiku Tso – Shegar (New Tingri)

  • Distance: 306km
  • Duration: Approx. 6 hours 44 minutes
  • Description:
    • Overlook the peak of Shishapangma at Paiku Tso.
    • Accommodation: 1N in Shegar

Day 3: Shegar – Rongbuk Monastery / Everest – Shegar

  • Distance: 212km
  • Duration: Approx. 8 hours 43 minutes
  • Description:
    • Ride to Rongbuk Monastery and overlook Mt. Everest.
    • Accommodation: 1N in Shegar

Day 4: Shegar – Lhatse – Shigatse (3868M)

  • Distance: 234km
  • Duration: Approx. 4 hours
  • Accommodation: 1N in Shigatse

Day 5: Shigatse

  • Description:
    • Transaction of the temporary license plate.
    • If there is enough time, visit Tashilunpo Monastery and free market.
    • Accommodation: 1N in Shigatse

Day 6: Shigatse – Gyantse (Palkhor Monastery and Kumbum Pagoda) – Yamdrok Tso – Lhasa (3650m)

  • Distance: Approx. 360km
  • Duration: Approx. 6 hours
  • Accommodation: 1N in Lhasa

Day 7: Lhasa

  • Description:
    • Visit Potala Palace, Jokhang Monastery, and Barkhor Street.
    • Accommodation: 1N in Lhasa

Day 8: Lhasa

  • Description:
    • Enjoy a panoramic view over Potala Palace at Parla Lupu Cave Monastery.
    • Visit Norbulingka and Sera Monastery.
    • Accommodation: 1N in Lhasa

Day 9: Lhasa – Damxung – Nam Tso (4718m)

  • Distance: 220km
  • Duration: Approx. 4 hours 45 minutes
  • Accommodation: 1N in Nam Tso

Day 10: Nam Tso – Bange (4715m)

  • Distance: 355km
  • Duration: Approx. 7 hours 45 minutes
  • Description:
    • Visit the Sheng Xiang Tian Men.
    • Accommodation: 1N in Bange

Day 11: Bange – Serling Tso – Nyima (4715m)

  • Distance: 333km
  • Duration: Approx. 5 hours 17 minutes
  • Description:
    • Visit Serling Tso and Cuoe Lake.
    • Accommodation: 1N in Nyima

Day 12: Nyima – Dongcuo – Gertse (4425m)

  • Distance: 341km
  • Duration: Approx. 5 hours 14 minutes
  • Accommodation: 1N in Gertse

Day 13: Gertse – Gerkyi (4600m)

  • Distance: 364km
  • Duration: Approx. 5 hours 53 minutes
  • Accommodation: 1N in Gerkyi

Day 14: Gerkyi – Shiquanhe – Tsada (3730m)

  • Distance: 371km
  • Duration: Approx. 7 hours 38 minutes
  • Description:
    • Visit the Tsada Tulin on the way.
    • Accommodation: 1N in Tsada

Day 15: Tsada – Earth Forest – Darchen (4600m)

  • Distance: 231km
  • Duration: Approx. 4 hours 39 minutes
  • Description:
    • Visit the Ruins of Guge Kingdom and Tholing Monastery.
    • Accommodation: 1N in Darchen

Day 16: Darchen – Manasarovar (4588m)

  • Description:
    • Short walk at the foot of the Holy Mount Kailash.
    • Ride to Manasarovar and rest.
    • Accommodation: 1N in Manasarovar

Day 17: Manasarovar – Paryang – Zhongba (4585m)

  • Distance: 339km
  • Duration: Approx. 4 hours 43 minutes
  • Accommodation: 1N in Zhongba

Day 18: Zhongba – Kyirong

  • Distance: 270km
  • Duration: Approx. 5 hours 45 minutes
  • Accommodation: 1N in Kyirong

Day 19: Kyirong – Nepal

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

Motorcycling Travel Tips

  1. Documentation:
    • Ensure all necessary visas, permits, and paperwork are in order, especially for travel through Tibet, which requires special permits.
    • Carry multiple copies of your documents, including your passport, visa, and permits.
  2. Bike Preparation:
    • Ensure your motorbike is in top condition and suitable for long-distance and high-altitude travel.
    • Carry essential spare parts, tools, and a repair kit, as repair facilities may be sparse in remote areas.
  3. Altitude Acclimatization:
    • Plan for gradual acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and rest adequately.
    • Be aware of symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and nausea, and know the emergency procedures for dealing with altitude sickness.
  4. Weather Preparedness:
    • Be prepared for diverse weather conditions, from the cold high-altitude conditions in Tibet to varying temperatures in Nepal.
    • Dress in layers and carry weatherproof gear, including thermal clothing, gloves, and a good-quality riding jacket.
  5. Navigation and Communication:
    • Use reliable maps and GPS devices, and consider hiring local guides when necessary, especially in remote or culturally sensitive areas.
    • Ensure you have means of communication, like a satellite phone or a local SIM card, especially in remote regions.
  6. Health and Safety:
    • Carry a comprehensive first-aid kit and any necessary medications, including those for altitude sickness and common travel ailments.
    • Have travel insurance that covers high-altitude motorbike touring and medical evacuation.
  7. Respect Local Customs:
    • Be respectful of local cultures, traditions, and regulations, particularly in Tibet and Nepal.
    • Adhere to local laws and guidelines, and learn basic phrases in the local languages to enhance your interactions.
  8. Fuel and Supplies:
    • Plan your fuel stops carefully, especially in remote areas. Carry extra fuel if possible.
    • Stock up on supplies, including food, water, and emergency rations, as facilities can be sparse in certain regions.
  9. Mechanical Skills:
    • Basic mechanical skills for on-the-road repairs can be invaluable. Familiarize yourself with your bike’s mechanics and practice basic repairs.
    • Consider taking a short course in motorbike maintenance before your trip.
  10. Cultural Sensitivity:
  • Engage respectfully with local communities, understanding and respecting cultural norms and practices.
  • Avoid sensitive political discussions, particularly concerning Tibet, and be mindful of local regulations.