12 DAY TOUR (Lhasa to Mt. Everest)

Experience the best of Bhutan in just 10days – a perfectly crafted itinerary to explore stunning landscapes, ancient culture, and unforgettable moments with DeyBhutan Tours.

Tibet Motorcycle Tour – Ride to the Roof of the World

Experience the magic of Tibet, a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich Buddhist culture, and mystical traditions, on an unforgettable motorcycle adventure. Ride through dramatic high plateaus, past snow-capped Himalayan peaks, turquoise salt lakes, and ancient monasteries. Discover the vastness of Tibet on winding mountain passes over 5,000 meters high, and fulfill a lifelong dream by traveling to Mount Everest Base Camp at 8,848 meters. Spend the night in the historic Rongbuk Monastery, with a dramatic view of Everest’s summit. This is more than a tour – it’s the adventure of a lifetime!

Your adventure begins in Chengdu, the vibrant capital of Sichuan Province. Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, join your group for a welcome dinner featuring delicious Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and spicy dishes. This is the perfect way to start your journey, meet your fellow travelers, and get a taste of local culture.

Highlights of Your Day

  1. Airport Pick-Up & Transfer to Hotel
    • Experience: Arrive in Chengdu and enjoy a hassle-free transfer to your hotel. Relax and freshen up after your journey.
    • Significance: A smooth start to your adventure ensures you feel welcomed and ready to explore.
  2. Welcome Dinner with Sichuan Cuisine
    • Experience: Gather with your group for a delicious dinner featuring Sichuan specialties, such as mapo tofu, kung pao chicken, and hot pot.
    • Significance: Sichuan cuisine is famous worldwide for its rich flavors and spices, offering a true feast for your taste buds.

Today, your adventure truly begins as you fly to Lhasa, the heart of Tibet, often called the “Roof of the World.” At an altitude of 3,600 meters, Lhasa is a city of rich history, stunning monasteries, and vibrant culture. After settling into your hotel, take time to acclimatize and explore the historic old town, the famous Barkhor Market, and the sacred Jokhang Temple. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Tibetan dinner with your group.

Highlights of Your Day

  1. Flight to Lhasa
    • Experience: Take an early morning flight from Chengdu to Lhasa. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas as you approach the “Roof of the World.”
    • Significance: Arriving in Lhasa marks the start of your Tibetan adventure.
  2. Hotel Check-In & Acclimatization
    • Experience: Transfer to your hotel near the historic old town and take time to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude.
    • Significance: Proper acclimatization is key to enjoying your time in Tibet.
  3. Explore Lhasa’s Old Town
    • Experience: Visit the Barkhor Market, a bustling hub of Tibetan culture, and the sacred Jokhang Temple, the most important temple in Tibet.
    • Significance: These sites offer a deep connection to Tibetan spirituality and daily life.
  4. Visit Drepung Monastery
    • Experience: In the afternoon, explore Drepung Monastery, one of Tibet’s largest and most significant monasteries.
    • Significance: This monastery is a treasure trove of Tibetan Buddhist history and art.
  5. Local Motorcycle License Paperwork
    • Experience: We’ll assist you with the paperwork to obtain your local motorcycle driver’s license, ensuring you’re ready for the ride ahead.
    • Significance: This step is essential for your upcoming motorcycle adventure.
  6. Traditional Tibetan Dinner
    • Experience: End the day with a group dinner at a traditional restaurant in the old town. Enjoy Tibetan specialties like momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), butter tea, and Lhasa beer.
    • Significance: This meal is a delicious introduction to Tibetan cuisine and culture.

Today, dive deeper into the heart of Lhasa with a visit to the iconic Potala Palace, the former majestic residence of the Dalai Lama. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a symbol of Tibetan culture and history. After the tour, enjoy a free afternoon to relax, acclimatize, or explore more of Lhasa’s treasures at your own pace.

Highlights of Your Day

  1. Visit the Potala Palace
    • Experience: Explore the Potala Palace, a stunning architectural masterpiece that served as the Dalai Lama’s residence and the seat of Tibetan government from 1642 to 1959. A knowledgeable guide will lead you through its grand halls, sacred chapels, and historic artifacts.
    • Significance: The Potala Palace is one of Tibet’s most iconic landmarks, offering a glimpse into its rich history and spiritual heritage.
  2. Free Afternoon for Acclimatization & Exploration
    • Experience: The afternoon is free for you to relax, acclimatize, or explore more of Lhasa. If you’re feeling adventurous, visit other nearby sights like Sera Monastery or Norbulingka Palace with our guide.
    • Significance: This free time allows you to explore at your own pace and adjust to the high altitude.

 

Today, the real adventure begins as you hop on your motorcycle for the first time in Tibet! Ride through stunning landscapes to the sacred Yerpa Hermitage, a meditation site with breathtaking views at 4,500 meters. Then, continue to the historic Ganden Monastery, perched at 4,300 meters, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views and a thrilling ride on winding mountain roads.

Highlights of Your Day

  1. First Motorcycle Ride
    • Experience: Start your engines and embark on your first motorcycle ride in Tibet. Feel the thrill of the open road as you ride through the stunning Himalayan landscapes.
    • Significance: This marks the beginning of your motorcycle adventure, offering a taste of the excitement and beauty to come.
  2. Visit Yerpa Hermitage
    • Experience: Ride to Yerpa Hermitage, a sacred meditation site surrounded by mountains and valleys. Learn about its history as a place where the famous Tibetan yogi Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) meditated and practiced tantric yoga.
    • Significance: Yerpa is a place of deep spiritual energy and offers unforgettable views at 4,500 meters.
  3. Explore Ganden Monastery
    • Experience: Continue your ride to Ganden Monastery, founded in 1409 and located at 4,300 meters. Walk the circular path around the monastery for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
    • Significance: Ganden Monastery is one of Tibet’s most important religious sites and offers a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
  4. Thrilling Ride on Winding Roads
    • Experience: Enjoy the exhilarating ride on winding mountain roads, offering stunning views and a taste of the adventures ahead.
    • Significance: This ride sets the tone for the thrilling journeys you’ll experience in the coming days.

Today marks the start of your full-day motorcycle adventure in Tibet! Ride along the scenic Yarlung Tsangpo River, passing traditional Tibetan villages and lush green landscapes. Visit the historic Samye Monastery, explore the ancient Yumbulakhang Castle, and end the day in Tsedang, the cradle of Tibetan civilization.

Highlights of Your Day

  1. Ride Along the Yarlung Tsangpo River
    • Experience: Enjoy a thrilling ride along the Yarlung Tsangpo River, one of Tibet’s most beautiful regions. Pass through traditional Tibetan villages and lush green valleys, soaking in the serene landscapes.
    • Significance: This ride offers a glimpse into the daily life and natural beauty of rural Tibet.
  2. Visit Samye Monastery
    • Experience: Stop at Samye Monastery, the first Buddhist monastery built in Tibet. Explore its unique architecture, ancient chapels, and spiritual atmosphere.
    • Significance: Samye Monastery is a symbol of Tibet’s rich Buddhist heritage and a must-visit destination.
  3. Explore Yumbulakhang Castle
    • Experience: Ride through a wide plateau to Yumbulakhang Castle, Tibet’s first castle, built 1,400 years ago by Tibet’s first king. Discover its historic walls and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
    • Significance: This castle is a testament to Tibet’s ancient history and offers a fascinating glimpse into its early civilization.
  4. Arrive in Tsedang
    • Experience: End the day in Tsedang, known as the cradle of Tibetan civilization. Relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.
    • Significance: Tsedang is a historic town that marks the beginning of Tibetan culture and history.

Today, your motorcycle adventure continues as you ride to the sacred Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s most breathtaking and spiritually significant destinations. Traverse high mountain passes, including the Karo La Pass at 5,100 meters, and explore the historic town of Gyangze, home to the impressive Gyangze Dzong and the stunning Pelkhor Monastery. End the day with a traditional Tibetan dinner in the heart of Gyangze.

Highlights of Your Day

  1. Ride to Yamdrok Lake (4,440 meters)
    • Experience: Follow the Yarlung Tsangpo River to the sacred Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s holiest lakes. According to legend, bathing in its waters can cleanse negative karma – so don’t forget your swimwear!
    • Significance: Yamdrok Lake is a place of deep spiritual energy and offers stunning views of its azure-blue waters.
  2. Serpentine Road & Panoramic Views
    • Experience: Ride along a thrilling serpentine road at 4,900 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Yamdrok Lake far below. Stop for photos and soak in the beauty of the landscape.
    • Significance: This ride is one of the most scenic and exhilarating parts of your journey.
  3. Cross the Karo La Pass (5,100 meters)
    • Experience: Continue your ride over the Karo La Pass, one of the highest passes in Tibet, with a massive glacier towering above.
    • Significance: The Karo La Pass offers stunning views and a sense of accomplishment as you conquer its heights.
  4. Explore Gyangze Dzong & Pelkhor Monastery
    • Experience: Arrive in Gyangze and visit the Gyangze Dzong, an ancient fortress that towers over the town. Then, explore the Pelkhor Monastery, built in 1427 and known as the “Monastery of Ten Thousand Paintings.” Discover its 108 chapels, 10,000 murals, and the largest stupa in Tibet.
    • Significance: These sites are key to understanding Tibet’s history, culture, and spirituality.
  5. Traditional Tibetan Dinner
    • Experience: End the day with a hearty dinner at a rustic Tibetan restaurant in Gyangze. Sample traditional dishes like momos, thukpa, and butter tea.
    • Significance: This meal is a delicious way to connect with Tibetan culture and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Today, your motorcycle adventure continues as you ride along the Friendship Highway to Sakya, a historic town known for its unique Sakya Monastery. Founded in 1073, this monastery stands out with its distinctive Mongolian architecture and serene surroundings. Explore the peaceful village, hike the mountain slopes, and discover hidden temples and hermitages.

Highlights of Your Day

  1. Ride Along the Friendship Highway
    • Experience: Leave Gyangze behind and ride along the scenic Friendship Highway, gaining altitude as you head towards Sakya. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscapes.
    • Significance: This route is one of the most iconic and beautiful roads in Tibet.
  2. Visit Sakya Monastery
    • Experience: Explore Sakya Monastery, founded in 1073 and located in a picturesque green mountain valley. Admire its unique Mongolian architecture, which sets it apart from other Tibetan monasteries.
    • Significance: Sakya Monastery was once one of the most important religious and political centers in Tibet, offering a fascinating glimpse into its history.
  3. Explore Sakya Village
    • Experience: Stroll through the non-touristy village of Sakya, where small stores and restaurants invite you to relax and soak in the local atmosphere.
    • Significance: This is a chance to experience authentic Tibetan village life and connect with the local community.
  4. Hike the Mountain Slopes
    • Experience: Take a hike along the mountain slopes surrounding Sakya, where you’ll discover hidden temples, hermitages, and stunning views of the valley.
    • Significance: The hikes offer a peaceful and immersive way to explore the natural and spiritual beauty of the area.

Today is the highlight of your motorcycle adventure as you ride to the Mount Everest Base Camp, one of the most iconic and breathtaking destinations in the world. Traverse high-altitude passes, enjoy stunning views of the world’s highest peaks, and spend the night at the historic Rongbuk Monastery, just a stone’s throw away from Everest.

Highlights of Your Day

  1. Ride Through High-Altitude Passes
    • Experience: Depart from Sakya and ride south, crossing several 5,000-meter passes with stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, including Cho Oyu, Shisha Pangma, Lhotse, Makalu, and of course, Mount Everest.
    • Significance: These high-altitude roads are some of the most spectacular in the world, offering unforgettable views and a thrilling ride.
  2. 108 Twists and Turns
    • Experience: Ride along the famous road with 108 twists and turns, offering panoramic views of the 8,000-meter-high mountain region and surrounding valleys.
    • Significance: This route is a bucket-list experience for any motorcycle enthusiast, combining thrilling riding with breathtaking scenery.
  3. Arrive at Rongbuk Monastery (4,900 meters)
    • Experience: After crossing the high passes, arrive at Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world. A bus will take you the final stretch to the monastery, where a breathtaking view of Mount Everest awaits.
    • Significance: Rongbuk Monastery is a historic and spiritual site, offering the closest view of Everest from its base.
  4. Spend the Night at Rongbuk
    • Experience: Stay overnight in a simple guesthouse at Rongbuk Monastery. Many rooms offer a romantic view of Everest, and the cozy living room with a warm fireplace and hot butter tea is the perfect way to end the day.
    • Significance: Spending the night at the foot of Everest is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering a deep connection to the mountain and its spiritual energy.

Today, wake up to a breathtaking sunrise over Mount Everest before embarking on a full day’s ride back to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. Traverse the Gyatso La Pass, the highest pass of your journey at 5,220 meters, and enjoy a thrilling ride on a scenic dirt road back to the Friendship Highway. Spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Shigatse, where you can explore the historic fortress, bustling markets, and charming old town.

Highlights of Your Day

  1. Sunrise Over Mount Everest
    • Experience: Start your day with a magical sunrise over Mount Everest, viewed from the Rongbuk Monastery. Capture the stunning colors of the morning sky as the sun illuminates the world’s highest peak.
    • Significance: This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, offering a deep connection to the beauty and majesty of Everest.
  2. Ride Back to Shigatse
    • Experience: Depart from Rongbuk Monastery and ride along a scenic dirt road back to the Friendship Highway. Enjoy the rugged beauty of the Tibetan landscape as you make your way to Shigatse.
    • Significance: This route offers a thrilling and picturesque ride, showcasing the diverse landscapes of Tibet.
  3. Cross the Gyatso La Pass (5,220 meters)
    • Experience: Conquer the Gyatso La Pass, the highest pass of your journey, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
    • Significance: Crossing this pass is a major milestone and a testament to your adventure spirit.
  4. Explore Shigatse
    • Experience: Arrive in Shigatse and check into a comfortable hotel. Explore the historic Shigatse Fortress, the bustling devotional market, and the charming alleyways of the old town.
    • Significance: Shigatse is a vibrant city that offers a mix of history, culture, and modern comforts.

Today, begin your day with a visit to the iconic Tashilhunpo Monastery, one of Tibet’s largest and most important monasteries. After exploring its grand halls and sacred atmosphere, ride through idyllic Tibetan landscapes and traditional villages. Enjoy a unique lunch with a local nomad family, gaining an authentic insight into their daily lives, before spending the night in the peaceful village of Damxung.

Highlights of Your Day

  1. Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery
    • Experience: Explore Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama and one of Tibet’s largest monasteries. Marvel at the impressive Buddha statues, listen to the mystical chants of the monks, and discover the three central main halls.
    • Significance: This monastery is a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and offers a deep connection to its spiritual heritage.
  2. Ride Through Idyllic Landscapes
    • Experience: Depart from Shigatse and ride along a scenic side road, passing through beautiful Tibetan landscapes and traditional villages.
    • Significance: This route offers a peaceful and picturesque journey, showcasing the natural beauty of rural Tibet.
  3. Lunch with a Nomad Family
    • Experience: Stop for lunch with a local nomad family, who graze their cattle by a small alpine lake. Enjoy authentic Tibetan dishes and gain a unique insight into their traditional way of life.
    • Significance: This is a rare opportunity to connect with Tibetan nomads and experience their hospitality and culture.
  4. Arrive in Damxung
    • Experience: End the day in the peaceful village of Damxung, where you’ll spend the night. Relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.
    • Significance: Damxung offers a quiet and serene setting, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Today is the last day of your motorcycle adventure, and it’s packed with unforgettable moments. Ride to the stunning Namtso Lake, one of Tibet’s largest and most beautiful lakes, located at 4,718 meters. Explore its shores, hike the green hills, and visit small monasteries and meditation caves. Then, ride back to Lhasa over a final high pass, soaking in the magical landscapes of Tibet one last time. End the day with a farewell dinner in Lhasa’s historic old town.

Highlights of Your Day

  1. Ride to Namtso Lake
    • Experience: Climb a 5,100-meter-high pass and descend to the shores of Namtso Lake, known for its azure-blue waters and breathtaking views.
    • Significance: Namtso Lake is one of Tibet’s most sacred and stunning natural wonders, offering a peaceful and awe-inspiring experience.
  2. Explore Namtso Lake
    • Experience: Ride along a gravel road to explore the lake’s shores. Enjoy views of snow-capped mountains, grazing yaks, and serene landscapes. Hike the green hills, visit small monasteries, and discover meditation caves.
    • Significance: This is a chance to connect with the natural and spiritual beauty of Tibet in a tranquil setting.
  3. Ride Back to Lhasa
    • Experience: Ride back to Lhasa via side roads, crossing a final 4,900-meter-high pass. Soak in the magical landscapes of Tibet one last time from your motorcycle.
    • Significance: This final ride is a fitting farewell to the endless, otherworldly beauty of Tibet.
  4. Farewell Dinner in Lhasa
    • Experience: End the day with a farewell dinner in Lhasa’s historic old town. Share stories and memories with your group as you celebrate the end of an incredible journey.
    • Significance: This dinner is a time to reflect on your adventures and celebrate the friendships you’ve made along the way.

Today marks the end of your incredible Tibet adventure. After breakfast at your hotel, you can either transfer to the airport for your flight home or choose to stay and explore more of Lhasa and its surrounding areas. Whether you’re heading back or extending your stay, this day is a time to reflect on the memories you’ve made and the friendships you’ve formed.

Highlights of Your Day

  1. Breakfast at the Hotel

    • Experience: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of your journey.

    • Significance: This is a peaceful moment to savor the memories of your adventure.

  2. Transfer to the Airport

    • Experience: If you’re departing, your guide will accompany you to the airport, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free transfer.

    • Significance: A heartfelt farewell from your guide symbolizes the warmth and hospitality of Tibet.

  3. Optional Exploration of Lhasa

    • Experience: If you’re staying longer, spend the day exploring more of Lhasa and its surrounding areas. Visit additional monasteries, markets, or hidden gems you may have missed.

    • Significance: This is a chance to deepen your connection to Tibet’s culture and history.

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