The 22-day motorbike tour from Mohan, Laos, to Gyirong, Nepal, offers an exhilarating journey through diverse landscapes and cultures. Starting from the border town of Mohan in Laos, you will traverse the lush, mountainous regions of Yunnan, ascend the majestic Tibetan Plateau, explore the spiritual heart of Tibet, and finally descend into the picturesque valleys of Nepal. This adventure combines thrilling rides with rich cultural experiences and stunning natural beauty.

Trip Highlights

1. Mohan, Laos: Begin your journey at the border crossing between Laos and China, experiencing the cultural blend of Southeast Asia and China.
2. Xishuangbanna, Yunnan: Explore the tropical landscapes, diverse ethnic cultures, and vibrant markets of this unique region in southern Yunnan.
3. Dali: Visit the historic city of Dali, known for its ancient architecture, beautiful Erhai Lake, and the backdrop of the Cangshan Mountains.
4. Lijiang: Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lijiang Old Town, with its well-preserved ancient buildings and charming canals.
5. Shangri-La: Discover the mystical town of Shangri-La, also known as Zhongdian, with its Tibetan culture, stunning monasteries, and breathtaking landscapes.
6. Tibetan Plateau: Ride across the expansive Tibetan Plateau, experiencing the high-altitude terrain, unique culture, and spiritual significance of the region.
7. Lhasa: Explore the spiritual heart of Tibet, including the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and bustling Barkhor Street, immersing yourself in Tibetan Buddhism and history.
8. Yamdrok Lake: Witness the stunning turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s most sacred lakes, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
9. Everest Base Camp: (Optional) Take a detour to Everest Base Camp for a breathtaking view of the world’s highest peak from the Tibetan side.
10. Gyirong: End your journey in Gyirong, the gateway to Nepal, with its stunning views of the Himalayas and a seamless transition into Nepali culture.

Tour Destinations:
(Laos) – Mohan – Jiangcheng – Yuanyang – Jianshui – Shilin – Kunming – Dali – Lijiang – Shangri-La – Dechen – Markam – Zuogong – Baxoi – Bomi – Linzhi – Lhasa – Yamdrok – Gyantse – Shigatse – Shegar – Rongbuk / Everest – Paiku Tso Lake – Kyirong – (Nepal)

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

Highlights

• Experience the cultural richness of Xishuangbanna, Honghe, Dali, and Lijiang
• Journey across the “roof of the world” from Yunnan to Tibet
• Explore the cultural landmarks of Shangri-La, Lhasa, Gyantse, and Shigatse
• Witness the breathtaking north side of Everest with views from Rongbuk Monastery
• Discover the majestic mountain landscapes of the Himalayas

Itinerary

Day 1: Mohan to Mengla

• Distance: 45km
• Duration: Approx. 1 hour
• Description:
  • Enter China at Mohan border.
  • Ride to Mengla and complete customs formalities.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Mengla

Day 2: Mengla to Jiangcheng

• Distance: 234km
• Duration: Approx. 5 hours 40 minutes
• Description:
  • Ride on asphalt roads to Jiangcheng.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Jiangcheng

Day 3: Jiangcheng to Yuanyang

• Distance: 305km
• Description:
  • Ride on asphalt roads to Yuanyang.
  • Visit Jingkou village of the Hani Minority.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Yuanyang

Day 4: Yuanyang to Jianshui

• Distance: 85km
• Description:
  • Explore Yuanyang’s terrace fields.
  • Continue to Jianshui.
  • Visit the Garden of Family Zhang, Double Dragon Bridge, Chaoyang Pagoda, ancient town, and Confucius Temple.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Jianshui

Day 5: Jianshui to Kunming via Shilin

• Distance: 290km
• Duration: Approx. 6 hours
• Description:
  • Ride through Shilin (Stone Forest).
  • Arrive in Kunming.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Kunming

Day 6: Kunming to Dali

• Distance: 400km
• Description:
  • Ride on asphalt roads to Dali.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Dali

Day 7: Dali to Lijiang

• Distance: 160km
• Description:
  • Visit the Three Pagodas, Erhai Lake, and Dali Ancient Town.
  • Continue to Lijiang.
  • Accommodation: 2 nights in Lijiang

Day 8: Lijiang

• Description:
  • Explore Black Dragon Pool, Dongba Culture Museum, and Lijiang Ancient Town.
  • Accommodation: 2nd night in Lijiang

Day 9: Lijiang to Shangri-La

• Distance: 163km
• Description:
  • Visit The First Bend of the Yangtze River and Tiger Leaping Gorge.
  • Ride to Shangri-La.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Shangri-La

Day 10: Shangri-La to Dechen

• Distance: 183km
• Description:
  • Visit Sumzanlin Monastery.
  • Ride to Dechen.
  • View the First Bend of Jinshajiang River.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Dechen

Day 11: Dechen to Markam

• Distance: 222km
• Description:
  • Overlook Meili Snow Mountain if weather permits.
  • Visit Yanjing’s Catholic Church.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Markam

Day 12: Markam to Baxoi

• Distance: 400km
• Description:
  • Ride to Baxoi.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Baxoi

Day 13: Baxoi to Bomi

• Distance: 216km
• Duration: Approx. 5 hours
• Description:
  • Visit Ranwu Lake en route.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Bomi

Day 14: Bomi to Linzhi (Nyingchi)

• Distance: 230km
• Duration: Approx. 5.5 hours
• Description:
  • Ride through Lulang Wald.
  • View Mt. Gyala Pelri and Mt. Namchak Barwa from Serkhyem La Pass.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Linzhi

Day 15: Linzhi to Lhasa

• Distance: 455km
• Description:
  • Ride on asphalt roads to Lhasa.
  • Accommodation: 3 nights in Lhasa

Day 16: Lhasa

• Description:
  • Visit Potala Palace, Jokhang Monastery, and Barkhor Street.
  • Accommodation: 2nd night in Lhasa

Day 17: Lhasa

• Description:
  • Visit Drepung Monastery, Norbulingka, and Sera Monastery.
  • Accommodation: 3rd night in Lhasa

Day 18: Lhasa to Shigatse via Yamdrok and Gyantse

• Distance: 360km
• Description:
  • Ride to Yamdrok Lake.
  • Visit Pelkor Monastery and Kumbum Stupa in Gyantse.
  • Arrive in Shigatse.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Shigatse

Day 19: Shigatse to Shegar

• Distance: 290km
• Description:
  • Visit Tashilunpo Monastery in Shigatse.
  • Ride to Shegar.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Shegar

Day 20: Shegar to Rongbuk Monastery / Everest

• Distance: 100km
• Description:
  • Ride on sand roads to Rongbuk Monastery.
  • Accommodation: 1 night at Rongbuk Guesthouse

Day 21: Rongbuk Monastery to Kyirong via Paiku Tso Lake

• Distance: 255km
• Description:
  • Travel via sand and asphalt roads.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Kyirong

Day 22: Kyirong to Nepal

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

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 and keep them in a waterproof container.
2. Bike Preparation:
   • Ensure your motorbike is in excellent condition, suited 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 have a plan for dealing with altitude sickness.
4. Weather Preparedness:
   • Be prepared for diverse weather conditions, from tropical heat in Yunnan to cold high-altitude conditions in Tibet.
   • 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.

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.