The 16-day motorbike tour from Gyirong, Nepal, through Tibet and Yunnan, China, to Ruili, Myanmar, offers an extraordinary journey across diverse landscapes and cultures. This adventure combines high-altitude rides over the Tibetan Plateau with the lush, scenic routes of Yunnan and the rich cultural experiences of Myanmar. The route provides an exhilarating blend of mountainous terrain, historical landmarks, and vibrant local cultures.

Trip Highlights

1. Gyirong Border: Begin your journey at the Gyirong Border, the entry point between Nepal and Tibet, surrounded by stunning Himalayan views.
2. Tibetan Plateau: Traverse the expansive Tibetan Plateau, experiencing its unique high-altitude landscapes and the rich Tibetan culture.
3. Lhasa: Explore Lhasa, the spiritual center of Tibet, including:
   • Potala Palace: The iconic former residence of the Dalai Lama.
   • Jokhang Temple: Tibet’s holiest temple, revered by Tibetan Buddhists.
   • Barkhor Street: A bustling market street around Jokhang Temple.
4. Yamdrok Lake: Admire the beauty of Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s sacred lakes, known for its striking turquoise color and mountainous backdrop.
5. Shigatse: Visit Shigatse and explore the Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, and the city’s cultural heritage.
6. Yunnan Province: Ride through Yunnan, experiencing:
   • Dali: Known for its ancient city and Erhai Lake.
   • Lijiang: Famous for its UNESCO-listed Old Town and traditional architecture.
   • Shangri-La: A Tibetan-influenced town with monasteries and stunning natural scenery.
7. Ruili: End your journey in Ruili, a vibrant city on the China-Myanmar border known for its cultural diversity and bustling market.
8. Myanmar Border Crossing: Cross into Myanmar, experiencing the transition from Chinese to Southeast Asian cultures.

Tour Destinations:
(Nepal) – Kyirong – Shigatse – Gyantse – Lhasa – Basum Tso Lake – Linzhi – Bomi – Ranwu Lake – Baxoi – Zuogong – Markam – Dechen – Shangri-La – Lijiang – Dali – Baoshan – Ruili – (Myanmar)

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

Highlights

• Cultural highlights of Shigatse, Gyantse, Lhasa, and Shangri-La
• Journey across the “roof of the world” from Tibet to Yunnan
• Meeting minorities in Dali and Lijiang

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 – Shigatse (3868m)

• Distance: 152km
• Duration: Approx. 3 hours
• Description:
  • Ride to Shigatse.
  • Visit the Tashilunpo Monastery.
  • Accommodation: 2N in Shigatse

Day 4: Shigatse

• Description:
  • Assist with custom formalities and car check.
  • Obtain your temporary driving license and vehicle tag.

Day 5: Shigatse – Gyantse (Pelkor Monastery with Kumbum Stupa) – Yamdrok Lake – Lhasa (3650m)

• Distance: G318 national road
• Duration: Approx. 8 hours
• Road Condition: Asphalt road
• Description:
  • Ride to Lhasa via Gyantse and Yamdrok Lake.
  • Accommodation: 2N in Lhasa

Day 6: Lhasa

• Description:
  • Visit Potala Palace, Jokhang Monastery, and Barkhor Street.

Day 7: Lhasa – Basum Tso Lake – Linzhi (=Nyingchi)

• Distance: 455km
• Road Condition: Asphalt road
• Description:
  • Ride to Linzhi via Basum Tso Lake.
  • Accommodation: 1N in Linzhi

Day 8: Linzhi – Lulang Forest – Bomi – Ranwu Lake

• Distance: 361km
• Duration: Approx. 7 hours
• Road Condition: Asphalt road
• Description:
  • From Serkhyem La Pass (4515m), view Mt. Gyala Pelri (7150m) and Mt. Namchak Barwa (7782m).
  • Accommodation: 1N at Ranwu Lake

Day 9: Ranwu Lake – Baxoi – Zuogong

• Distance: 290km
• Duration: Approx. 7 hours
• Road Condition: Asphalt road
• Description:
  • Ride to Zuogong via Baxoi.
  • Accommodation: 1N in Zuogong

Day 10: Zuogong – Markam – Dechen

• Distance: 377km
• Road Condition: Asphalt road
• Description:
  • Ride to Dechen, overlooking the baysalt production from a distance.
  • Accommodation: 1N in Dechen

Day 11: Dechen – Shangri-La

• Distance: 176km
• Duration: Approx. 3 hours 49 minutes
• Description:
  • On a fine day, view Meili Xueshan (Snow Mountain) from afar.
  • Far view of the first bend of Jinshajiang River.
  • Visit the Sumzanlin Monastery in Shangri-La.
  • Accommodation: 1N in Shangri-La

Day 12: Shangri-La – Tiger Leaping Gorge (1800m) – Lijiang

• Distance: 354km
• Duration: Approx. 7 hours
• Road Condition: Asphalt road
• Description:
  • Ride to Lijiang via Tiger Leaping Gorge.
  • Accommodation: 2N in Lijiang

Day 13: Lijiang

• Description:
  • Visit Black Dragon Pool (Heilong Tan), Dongba Culture Museum, and the ancient city of Lijiang.

Day 14: Lijiang – Dali

• Distance: 160km
• Road Condition: Expressway
• Description:
  • Ride to Dali.
  • Visit the Three Pagodas.
  • Boating on Erhai Lake.
  • Visit Dali Ancient Town.
  • Accommodation: 1N in Dali

Day 15: Dali – Baoshan – Ruili

• Distance: 411km
• Duration: Approx. 6 hours
• Road Condition: Expressway + national road
• Description:
  • Ride to Ruili via Baoshan.
  • Accommodation: 1N in Ruili

Day 16: Ruili exit to Myanmar

• Description:
  • Ride to the customs at Ruili.
  • Assist with exit formalities.
  • Note: Service ends in China.

Motorcycling Travel Tips

1. Documentation:
   • Ensure all necessary visas, permits, and paperwork are in order, particularly for Tibet and Myanmar.
   • Carry multiple copies of your documents, including your passport, visa, and permits.
2. Bike Preparation:
   • Ensure your motorbike is in excellent condition and suitable for long-distance and diverse terrain.
   • Carry essential spare parts, tools, and a repair kit, as repair facilities may be limited in remote areas.
3. Altitude Acclimatization:
   • Plan for gradual acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness, especially in Tibet. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and rest adequately.
   • Be aware of symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and nausea, and have a plan for dealing with altitude sickness.
4. Weather Preparedness:
   • Be prepared for varied weather conditions, from the cold, high-altitude weather in Tibet to the tropical climate in Myanmar.
   • 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. Consider hiring local guides in remote areas for better navigation and cultural insight.
   • 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 Myanmar.
   • 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 Myanmar, and be mindful of local regulations.

Service Included:

• Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
• Meals as listed in the itinerary;
• Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
• Private English-speaking tour guide;
• Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
• Service charge & government taxes;
• Luggage transfers between airports and hotels.

Service Excluded:

• Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
• Chinese visa fees;
• Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
• Single room supplement;
• Tips to guides and drivers;
• Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
• Personal travel accident insurance;
• All optional programs.