Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime with our Bike Tour to Tibet – 11 Days, a thrilling journey through the majestic Himalayas that’s perfect for bold travelers and cycling enthusiasts. Starting in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, this guided ride takes you deep into the heart of Tibet’s serene highlands. Pedal across the awe-inspiring Tibetan Plateau, visit sacred monasteries, and catch unforgettable views of Mount Everest from Rongbuk Monastery—the highest in the world. It’s more than just a bike tour—it’s a powerful mix of challenge, discovery, and cultural connection that belongs on every adventurer’s bucket list.
Designed with your safety and acclimatization in mind, the Bike Tour to Tibet – 11 Days ensures a comfortable pace so you can fully enjoy every moment. Ride through charming mountain villages, quiet valleys, and ancient towns while learning about the rich traditions of Tibetan Buddhism and Himalayan life. With expert guides, support vehicles, and panoramic vistas at every turn, this 11-day expedition is the perfect way to explore one of the world’s most remote and inspiring destinations—on two wheels.
11 days / 10 nights Tibet Bike trip
Touch the Clouds in the Tibet Region
Highlights
- Ride from Kathmandu to Tibet across the Himalayan Plateau, navigating valleys, mountain passes, and remote regions.
- Visit ancient Tibetan monasteries, interact with local communities, and experience Tibetan Buddhist traditions firsthand.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest and visit Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest monastery.
- Includes vehicle backup, experienced guides, and planned rest stops to ensure safety, comfort, and proper acclimatization.
- Traverse lush valleys, rugged highlands, traditional villages, and windswept plateaus with ever-changing scenery.
- Perfect for experienced motorcyclists or travelers seeking a physically rewarding and spiritually rich experience.
- Ride past prayer flags, snow-capped peaks, and wide-open landscapes that offer inspiration at every turn.
- A rare opportunity to explore one of the world’s most mystical and remote destinations by motorcycle.
Itinerary
The journey begins at 6:00 AM from the your hotel. We drive via Nagdhunga, following the Trishuli River north through Galchi, Dhunche, and Syabrubesi to the Nepal-Tibet border (140 km). After completing Nepalese immigration formalities, we cross into Tibet where our Tibetan guide and driver will be waiting. Following Chinese immigration clearance, we continue a 70 km drive to Kerung.
Overnight in Guesthouse
We drive across the Tibetan Plateau, experiencing its vast, high-altitude landscape. En route, we cross the Lalung La Pass (5,050m), offering views of Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201m), Mt. Xishapagma (8,012m), and, weather permitting, Mt. Everest (8,848m).
Overnight in Guesthouse
We continue through the Gyatchu La Pass (5,220m), the highest point of the journey. In Shigatse, we visit Tashilumpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama.
Overnight in Hotel
After breakfast, we drive to Lhasa via the scenic mid-route road. Upon arrival, check in and rest.
Overnight in Hotel
Two full days exploring Lhasa’s cultural landmarks, including Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Bazaar, Potala Palace, Drepung Monastery, and Sera Monastery.
Overnight in Hotel
We cross the Khamapala Pass, drive along the turquoise Yamdrok Lake, stop for lunch at Nakaratse, and continue past the Karola Glacier. In Gyantse, we visit Khumbum Stupa, Palcho Chode Monastery, and Gyantse Fort.
Overnight in Hotel
Scenic drive to Shegar with mountain views and highland terrain.
Overnight in Guesthouse
Drive to Rongbuk Monastery and explore the Everest Base Camp area.
Overnight in Guesthouse
After breakfast, we visit Everest Base Camp and then drive back to Kerung via Paikutso Lake and Lalung La Pass.
Overnight in Guesthouse
Cross the border at Rasuwagadhi and complete re-entry formalities at Nepal Immigration. Meet your Nepalese guide and continue the scenic 7–8 hour drive to Kathmandu.
End of Tour
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Twin-sharing accommodation in a 3-star hotel with bed & breakfast (BB)
- English-speaking Tibetan guide
- Transportation as per itinerary (one support truck)
- Monastery entrance fees
- Mechanic services and allowance
- Tibet Travel Permit and Motorbike Permit
Cost Excludes
- Motorbike and fuel
- Bike maintenance and spare parts
- Lunch and dinner
- Airfare or train fare for any sector
- Travel or medical insurance
- Expenses due to natural disasters or political unrest beyond our control
- Personal expenses (e.g., drinks, tips, porter fees, etc.)
- Visa fees
FAQs
Tibet lies in southwestern China, sharing borders with India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Burma. Historically, it comprises three provinces: U-Tsang, Kham, and Amdo. Although people from these regions all identify as Tibetan, they speak distinct dialects and maintain strong regional identities.
Today, Tibet is administratively divided under Chinese governance. The Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) includes U-Tsang and part of Kham. The rest of Kham and Amdo have been merged into neighboring Chinese provinces such as Sichuan, Yunnan, Gansu, and Qinghai. Covering about 1.22 million km²—12.8% of China’s landmass—Tibet offers stunning alpine scenery, a rich Buddhist culture, and easy access from Nepal, making it a popular destination for trekking and spiritual journeys.
Tibet follows China Standard Time (GMT+8), which is 6 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.
To travel to Tibet from Nepal, you need both a Chinese Group Visa and a Tibet Travel Permit. Your travel agency in Kathmandu will assist in arranging both. If you already have a Chinese tourist visa, it will be canceled when applying for a group visa.
Travelers entering Tibet from mainland China must obtain a Chinese Visa and a Tibet Travel Permit. Additional permits may be required for regions outside Lhasa, which your travel agency will help arrange.
- By Road: Tibet is accessible via five major highways:
- Sichuan–Tibet Highway (Chengdu–Lhasa)
- Qinghai–Tibet Highway (Xining–Lhasa)
- Yunnan–Tibet Highway
- Xinjiang–Tibet Highway
- China–Nepal Highway (the only international highway)
- By Air: Flights to Lhasa require a stop in China or Nepal. The only international route is between Kathmandu and Lhasa.
- By Rail: The Qinghai–Tibet Railway connects Golmud to Lhasa, covering 1,142 km.
Tibet has a high-altitude climate. Lhasa enjoys sunny, cool days and cold nights. Winters are cold but dry and sunny, while summers can be warm during the day but chilly at higher elevations. Pack appropriately for temperature fluctuations.
The ideal time to visit is from April to early November, with peak seasons in May, June, and September. Lhasa, known as the “Sunlight City,” can be visited year-round due to its milder climate.
- A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Chinese Visa or Group Visa (depending on entry point)
- Tibet Travel Permit (issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau)
- Additional permits may include:
- Aliens’ Travel Permit for restricted areas
- Military Permit for sensitive regions
No. Due to strict regulations, independent travel is not permitted in Tibet. Travel must be organized through a licensed tour agency, which will handle all permits and documentation.
Yes. Tibet’s high elevation may cause symptoms like headache, fatigue, or loss of appetite. Most travelers adjust within a few days. Consult your doctor about preventive medication (e.g., AMS pills), and allow time to acclimatize in Lhasa.
ATMs are available in major cities like Lhasa and Shigatse but may be scarce in remote towns. Carry sufficient cash for your trip.
The Chinese Yuan (CNY) is the official currency. Banks and major hotels in cities can exchange foreign currency. Traveler’s cheques and credit cards are not widely accepted outside of Lhasa.
As long as you avoid political discussions and demonstrations, political issues are unlikely to affect your visit.
Recommended vaccinations include:
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Tetanus & Diphtheria
- Rabies (if traveling to rural areas)
- Influenza
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Chickenpox
- Polio
- Yellow Fever (if traveling from an affected area)
Not usually. Guides speak English, and many hotel staff in cities like Lhasa and Shigatse are also English-speaking. Common languages in Tibet include Tibetan, Chinese, English, and Nepali.
Yes, but availability is limited. Internet is accessible in hotels and some cafés in cities like Lhasa, Shigatse, Gyantse, and Tsedang.
Bike Tour to Tibet – 11 Days is the ultimate adventure for motorcycling enthusiasts seeking a high-altitude, culture-rich journey through one of the most remote and awe-inspiring regions on Earth. This epic tour begins in the lively city of Kathmandu, Nepal, and takes you across the breathtaking landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau, offering a once-in-a-lifetime ride through valleys, mountain passes, and sacred pilgrimage sites. If you’re ready to challenge your body while feeding your soul, this 11-day journey will exceed all expectations.
The Bike Tour to Tibet – 11 Days is more than just a cycling experience—it’s a cultural immersion. Along the route, riders have the chance to explore centuries-old monasteries, interact with local Tibetan communities, and gain a deeper appreciation of Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Highlights include visits to iconic sites such as Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest monastery, and panoramic views of Mount Everest that will leave you breathless—both from the altitude and the sheer beauty.
This guided tour is carefully crafted to ensure proper acclimatization, allowing participants to gradually adjust to the high elevations. With full vehicle support, experienced guides, and well-planned rest stops, you can focus on enjoying the journey without worrying about logistics. The Bike Tour to Tibet – 11 Days combines physical endurance with spiritual discovery, making it ideal for those who want to explore the Himalayas in a unique and unforgettable way.
As you ride motorcycle across the rugged terrain, you’ll pass through traditional villages, lush valleys, and expansive plateaus. The constantly changing scenery offers stunning photo opportunities and moments of reflection. Whether you’re riding beside ancient prayer flags fluttering in the wind or coasting downhill past snow-capped peaks, every stretch of the road tells a story. This tour offers a rare glimpse into the untamed beauty and cultural richness of Tibet.
Whether you’re an experienced motorcyclist or an adventurous traveler with a passion for exploration, the Bike Tour to Tibet – 11 Days delivers a remarkable combination of challenge, beauty, and cultural depth. With each turn of the wheel, you’ll discover why Tibet is one of the world’s most mystical destinations—and why this journey is a must for your adventure bucket list.
Visa Information
Traveling to Tibet requires both a Chinese Visa and a Tibet Travel Permit, which can be arranged in Kathmandu through a registered travel agency (for those entering Tibet via Nepal). A valid Chinese visa alone is not sufficient—you must also obtain a Tibet Travel Permit.
Even travelers entering Tibet from within China must secure this permit. To receive it, you must book a guided tour and arrange private transport for any travel outside Lhasa. Additional permits are required for areas beyond Lhasa, which your travel agency will handle on your behalf.
Required Documents
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months.
- Chinese Visa: Apply through a Chinese embassy or visa service provider (for entry via China).
- Group Visa: Required for travelers entering Tibet from Nepal. It also allows continued travel into mainland China after the Tibet tour. Note: If you already hold a Chinese visa in your passport, it will be canceled upon issuance of the group visa.
- Tibet Entry Permit: Issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and mandatory for all foreign travelers entering Tibet.
- Additional Permits (as needed):
- Travel Permit: Required for visiting restricted areas within Tibet.
- Military Permit: Needed to access military-sensitive zones. These are arranged after arrival by your travel agency.
Weather Information
Tibet’s climate is similar to mainland China’s but colder due to its elevation. Summers feature warm, sunny days and cool to chilly nights, especially in higher regions. Winters are cold but relatively dry, and even then, Lhasa enjoys abundant sunshine.
Frost is common for at least six months annually, and high-altitude lakes can remain frozen from October to March. Conditions vary greatly across regions, but Lhasa, located in a lower-altitude valley, offers milder and more stable weather year-round.
Safety Guidelines
To ensure a safe and comfortable journey, follow these tips:
- Keep at least two copies of your Tibet Permit with you.
- Always secure your valuables and important documents.
- Inform your guide immediately if you feel unwell or experience altitude sickness.
- Avoid sightseeing on the first day in Lhasa—rest and acclimate.
- Be cautious when shopping; avoid street vendors selling wildlife products, unverified Tibetan herbs, or counterfeits.
- Carry cash, including small denominations, as many places do not accept cards.
- Stay hydrated, avoid heavy drinking and smoking, and follow a gradual ascent to higher altitudes.
- Respect local customs and religious practices; avoid sensitive topics or actions.
- Protect yourself from sunburn and extreme temperature changes common in high-altitude climates.
- Consult a doctor before your trip and carry any necessary medications.
- Do not explore alone at night or venture into unknown areas without notifying your guide.
- In case of emergencies, contact your guide immediately.
- Avoid carrying any materials related to the Dalai Lama or Free Tibet.
- Refrain from bringing Tibet-specific guidebooks that may raise concerns at checkpoints.
