Kathmandu to Tibet: Everest Base Camp Motorbike Expedition
This epic trans-Himalayan motorbike adventure from Kathmandu, Nepal to Lhasa, Tibet — a route that combines cultural immersion, rugged high-altitude riding, and spiritual discovery. Over 16 days, this journey takes you through ancient capitals, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, remote border towns, and the awe-inspiring Everest Base Camp on the northern face. Navigate mountain passes, serene lakes, and centuries-old monasteries as you cross the legendary Friendship Highway. This tour offers a rare opportunity to ride across two Himalayan nations on a single, seamlessly organized itinerary.
Key Information
Day Ride
5-9 hr
Tour Type
Adventure
Group Size
Max 12 Riders
Motorbike
Royal Enfield
Duration
16D 15N
Price
Rider: $5200
Pillion: $4900
Motorbike Tour Details
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu – Gateway to the Himalayas
Route: Airport to Hotel (Private Transfer)
Distance: 5 km approx.
Altitude: 1,200 meters
Accommodation: Kantipur Village Hotel or similar (MAP Basis)
Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport. A private transfer takes you to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. After settling in, meet your tour leader and fellow riders for a comprehensive briefing, bike fitting, and welcome dinner.
Highlights:
- Airport pickup and hotel check-in.
- Tour orientation and briefing.
- Evening welcome dinner in Thamel.
Day 02: Cultural Discovery in Kathmandu
Route: Kathmandu City Tour (Private Vehicle)
Distance: ~20 km round trip
Altitude: 1,200 meters
Accommodation: Kantipur Village Hotel or similar (MAP Basis)
Before hitting the road, immerse yourself in the cultural wonders of Kathmandu Valley. Visit four of its UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Kathmandu Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the colossal stupa of Boudhanath, and the mystical Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple).
Highlights:
- Guided tour of major religious and historical sites.
- Cultural insight into Hinduism and Buddhism.
- Final bike prep before the adventure begins
Day 03: The Ride Begins – Kathmandu to Nuwakot
Route: Kathmandu to Nuwakot (Ride)
Distance: ~80 km, 3-4 hrs
Altitude: 1,200 meters
Accommodation: Nuwakot Farmhouse (MAP Basis)
Leave behind the bustling capital and ascend into the serene hills of central Nepal. Today’s ride offers winding roads, local villages, and terraced landscapes as you reach the timeless town of Nuwakot. Here, explore the historic 18th-century palace complex and unwind at a rustic farmhouse.
Highlights:
- First full-day ride through rural Nepal.
- Visit to Nuwakot Durbar and 7-story palace.
- Organic meals and peaceful countryside stay.
Day 04: Ride to Syabrubesi – Gateway to Tibet
Route: Nuwakot to Syabrubesi (Ride)
Distance: ~122 km, 5-6 hrs
Altitude: 1,500 meters
Accommodation: Local Guesthouse (MAP Basis)
Continue north along narrow mountain roads towards the Langtang region. The ride becomes more technical today as we cross rivers and cliffs to reach Syabrubesi, a border town nestled in the Himalayan foothills. Rest well—tomorrow, we enter Tibet.
Highlights:
Challenging hill roads and deep river valleys.
Glimpses of Ganesh Himal range.
Border town immersion.
Day 05: Cross into Tibet – Syabrubesi to Kyirong
Route: Syabrubesi to Kyirong (Ride)
Distance: ~45 km, 2-3 hrs
Altitude: 2,300 meters
Accommodation: Kyirong Guesthouse (MAP Basis)
After border formalities at the Sino-Nepal Friendship Bridge, you’ll officially ride into Tibet. The terrain quickly changes from lush forests to stark alpine beauty as you enter Kyirong. Acclimatize slowly and prepare for high-altitude adventure ahead.
Highlights:
- Nepal–Tibet border crossing.
- Ride through stunning border gorges.
- First night in the Tibetan Plateau.
Day 06: Kyirong to New Tingri – Entering High Himalayas
Route: Kyirong to New Tingri/Shegar (Ride)
Distance: ~380 km, 7-8 hrs
Altitude: 4,300 meters
Accommodation: Shegar Hotel or similar (MAP Basis)
Today’s ride is one of the most breathtaking and demanding. Navigate high passes and open valleys as you gain altitude dramatically. En route, enjoy panoramic views of Shishapangma and the first distant glimpse of Mt. Everest near Kori Village.
Highlights:
- Vast Himalayan landscapes.
- Long-distance ride to the Tibetan heartland.
- Gradual high-altitude acclimatization
Day 07: New Tingri to Shigatse – Through High Tibetan Plateau
Route: Shegar to Shigatse (Ride)
Distance: ~330 km, 6-7 hrs
Altitude: 3,900 meters
Accommodation: Hotel Manasarovar or similar (MAP Basis)
Descend slightly into the historic city of Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest urban center. The route offers expansive views of the barren yet majestic plateau. After arrival, visit the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery—seat of the Panchen Lama.
Highlights:
- Ride through open plains and river basins.
- Visit Tashi Lhunpo Monastery.
- Cultural exploration in Shigatse
Day 08: Shigatse to Lhasa – Capital of Tibet
Route: Shigatse to Lhasa (Ride)
Distance: ~360 km
Altitude: 3,600 meters, 7-9 hrs
Accommodation: Yak Hotel or similar (MAP Basis)
Ride to the spiritual and political heart of Tibet: Lhasa. En route, marvel at the sacred Yamdrok Lake and cross mountain passes like Karo La. You’ll arrive in Lhasa by evening, marking a key milestone of your Himalayan expedition.
Highlights:
- Sacred Yamdrok Lake and glacial valleys.
- Arrival in iconic Lhasa.
- Blend of ancient and modern Tibet
Day 09: Lhasa Cultural Tour
Route: Local sightseeing (By vehicle)
Distance: Short transfers
Altitude: 3,600 meters
Accommodation: Yak Hotel or similar (MAP Basis)
Spend the day exploring Tibet’s most sacred landmarks: the majestic Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and the bustling Barkhor Market. This immersive day gives rare insight into Tibetan Buddhism and modern life in the high plateau.
Highlights:
- Potala Palace tour (UNESCO Site).
- Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street.
- Free time for local exploration
Day 10: Lhasa to Gyantse – Back to the Countryside
Route: Lhasa to Gyantse (Ride)
Distance: ~260 km, 6-7 hrs
Altitude: 3,900 meters
Accommodation: Gyantse Hotel or similar (MAP Basis)
Ride along the Yarlung Tsangpo River and cross several high passes. Gyantse is a picturesque town rich in history, home to the famed Kumbum Stupa and Pelkor Chode Monastery.
Highlights:
- Ride through remote river valleys.
- Visit ancient fortresses and monasteries.
- Experience quiet Tibetan countryside.
Day 11: Gyantse to Shegar – Heading Toward Everest
Route: Gyantse to Shegar (Ride)
Distance: ~340 km, 7-8 hrs
Altitude: 4,400 meters
Accommodation: Rongbuk Lodge or similar (MAP Basis)
Today marks your approach to Everest. The landscape grows increasingly rugged as you near the base of the world’s tallest mountain. Rest near Shegar in preparation for tomorrow’s ride to EBC.
Highlights:
- High mountain passes.
- Final night before EBC.
- Pure Himalayan grandeur.
Day 12: Ride to Everest Base Camp (North Side)
Route: Shegar to Rongbuk & EBC (Ride)
Distance: ~110 km, 5-6 hrs (some rugged)
Altitude: 5,200 meters
Accommodation: Rongbuk Guesthouse or similar (MAP Basis)
A once-in-a-lifetime ride to the northern base of Mt. Everest. Visit Rongbuk Monastery—the highest on Earth—before heading to the Everest Base Camp viewpoint.
Highlights:
- Mt. Everest’s North Face.
- Visit Rongbuk Monastery.
- Photography and reflection at 5,200 m.
Day 13: Descent to Kyirong via Peikutso Lake
Route: Rongbuk – Old Tingri – Kyirong (Ride)
Distance: ~395 km, 8-9 hrs
Altitude: 5,000 m > 1,800 meters
Accommodation: Kyirong Guesthouse (MAP Basis)
Descend from the heights through Thong La Pass and vast open plains. Catch your final views of Everest, Mt. Shishapangma, and the serene Peikutso Lake before arriving at Kyirong.
Highlights:
- Panoramic high passes.
- Remote lake and scenic photo stops.
- Gradual descent to lush valleys.
Day 14: Re-enter Nepal – Kyirong to Syabrubesi
Route: Kyirong to Syabrubesi (Ride)
Distance: ~95 km, 3-4 hrs
Altitude: 1,500 meters
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Syabrubesi (MAP Basis)
After border clearance, re-enter Nepal and descend along familiar routes back to Syabrubesi. Reflect on your cross-border journey.
Highlights:
- Return to the Nepalese landscape.
- Relaxed riding day.
- Final frontier memories.
Day 15: Ride to Kathmandu – Final Stretch
Route: Syabrubesi to Kathmandu (Ride)
Distance: ~122 km, 5-6 hrs
Altitude: 1,200 meters
Accommodation: Kantipur Village Hotel or similar (MAP Basis)
Wind your way back to the capital city through hilly terrains and fertile valleys. Celebrate your epic journey with a farewell dinner and final group gathering.
Highlights:
Final riding day.
Ride celebration in Kathmandu.
Certificate distribution and farewell.
Day 16: Departure Day – Fly Back Home
Route: Hotel to Airport (Transfer)
Distance: 5 km
Altitude: 1,200 meters
Transfer to the airport as your unforgettable Himalayan motorbike odyssey concludes. Depart with lasting memories of two nations, endless mountains, and a lifetime of adventure.
Highlights:
- Departure assistance.
- Optional extra stays or extensions.
- Farewell from the Himalayas.
Includes
Motorcycle: Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 (or equivalent) with fuel included for the entire trip.
Support Vehicle: A back-up Jeep with a dedicated driver for luggage, supplies, and support.
Experienced Crew: A professional Road Captain and a skilled mechanic (including their salary, meals, and accommodation).
Accommodation: 15 nights in hotels/lodges as specified (on a twin-sharing basis).
Meals: Meal plan as specified in the itinerary (BB = Breakfast | MAP = Breakfast & Dinner | Full Board in Chitwan).
Permits & Fees: All necessary permits (Annapurna Conservation Area), entry fees, and road tolls.
Transportation: All ground transport, including airport pick-up/drop-off and transfers between vehicle and bike points.
Taxes: All applicable government taxes and service charges.
Excludes
International Flights: Your flight to and from Kathmandu.
Personal Riding Gear: Helmet, jacket, gloves, boots, etc.
Travel & Medical Insurance: Comprehensive personal and medical insurance is mandatory.
Nepal Visa: Visa fees are payable upon arrival at the airport.
Meals: Lunches (unless specified) and dinners in Kathmandu/Pokhara.
Security Deposit: A refundable security deposit of 500 USD is required for each motorbike. This amount will be returned to you at the end of the trip, provided no spare parts were needed or damage occurred.
Personal Expenses: Bar bills, beverages, laundry, souvenirs, etc.
Tips: Tipping for the Nepali crew is appreciated but not compulsory.
Emergency Evacuation: Helicopter rescue or other emergency evacuation costs.
Optional Extras: Bungee jumping, extra drinks, battery charging fees in remote areas, etc.
Price
MotorBike: Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 CC
Rider: USD 5200/-
Pillion Rider: USD 4900/-
Single Room Supplement USD 500 Extra
Motorbike Accidental Insurance
Full Damage Protection: USD 110/-
Motorbike Security Deposit: USD 500 (Refundable)
Important Information
Things To Carry
Please use this checklist to ensure you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable expedition. Your main duffel bag (60L max) will be transported in our support vehicle.
On The Bike (Riding Gear)
Helmet
Armored Riding Jacket
Riding Pants (with knee protection)
Motorcycle Boots
Gloves
Kidney Belt (Recommended)
Hydration Pack (Recommended)
Dust Mask or Buff
Off The Bike (In Your Duffel Bag)
Comfortable T-shirts and Trousers
Warm Layers (Fleece or Thermals)
Waterproof Rain Suit
Extra Socks & Underwear
Comfortable Shoes / Slippers for evenings
Personal Toiletries
Sunscreen & Sunglasses
In Your Daypack (Keep With You)
Passport, Driving License & ID
Travel & Medical Insurance Details
Personal Medication
Phone, Camera, and other electronics
Cash / Wallet
Packing Tip: To manage luggage weight on small domestic flights, we advise wearing your motorcycle jacket, pants, and boots during the flight.
Confirmation Policy
- Confirmation: You’ll get a confirmation voucher by email within 24 hours of booking.
Date Availability: If your chosen dates are full, we’ll help you find an alternative that you’re happy with.
Deposit: A 10% deposit secures your booking.
Final Balance: The remaining 90% is due 2 weeks before the tour start date.
Documents To Carry
Required Travel & Riding Documents
To ensure a smooth journey, please be prepared to present the original physical copies of the following documents. Photocopies or digital versions are not sufficient.
Valid Passport: Your original, current passport.
Driving License & Permit: You will need BOTH of the following:
Your Valid Driver’s License from your home country.
An International Driving Permit (IDP).
What is an IDP?
An IDP is an official, multi-language translation of your native driver’s license. It is a mandatory requirement for foreign nationals to legally ride a motorcycle in Nepal. You must carry it with your original license. For more information on how to obtain an IDP, please contact the automobile association in your home country.
Expedition Key Points
| Destination | The Himalayas of Nepal |
| Tour Months | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Total Tour Duration | 16 Days 15 Nights |
| Days on the Bike | 13 full days of riding |
| Accommodation | Hotels, Lodged, |
| Your Motorcycle | Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 CC |
| Skill Level: | Confident Beginner to Intermediate |
| Max. Altitude Reached | 5200 m |
| Max. Sleeping Altitude | 4400 m |
| Average Daily Distance | 200-300km |
| Total Distance | 3024 KM |
| Fitness Level | Moderate to Good physical fitness is essential due to altitude and long days. |
How to get there
Your gateway to this incredible adventure is Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu. You will be flying into Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM).
Direct Flight Connections:
Getting to Nepal is convenient from many parts of the world. Several major international hubs offer direct or single-stop flights to Kathmandu. Key origin cities with frequent service include:
Southeast Asia: Bangkok (BKK), Singapore (SIN), Kuala Lumpur (KUL)
East Asia: Hong Kong (HKG) and various cities across China
Middle East: Doha (DOH), Dubai (DXB)
Europe / Eurasia: Istanbul (IST)
Your Seamless Airport Transfer:
To ensure a smooth and stress-free start to your expedition, a private airport pickup is included in your tour package. Once you have booked your flights, please share your arrival details with us. Our representative will be waiting for you at the airport to greet you and provide a comfortable transfer to your hotel.
Import Notes
1. Is insurance included in the tour package?
Yes. All motorbikes are covered under a comprehensive first-party insurance policy, which also includes third-party coverage. A non-refundable fee of USD 110 per rider applies for insurance.
2. What does the insurance cover?
The insurance includes:
Physical damage to the motorbike caused by an accident.
Third-party compensation of up to USD 3,700 (combined for medical and death).
Third-party property damage (subject to depreciation).
In the event of full damage to the bike, the rider is responsible for a minimum of USD 2,000, with the remaining balance covered by the insurer.
3. Do I need to pay a security deposit for the bike?
Yes security deposit is required just incase the bike is damaged, without any accidents.
4. Can I join the tour without an International Driving License?
No. A valid International Driving License with motorcycle endorsement is mandatory for all riders. Riders without proper documentation will not be allowed to operate a motorbike.
5. Who leads the tour, and what authority do they have?
A professional Road Captain/Group Leader will lead the tour. Their decisions regarding route changes, emergencies, or group coordination are final and must be followed by all participants.
6. What riding gear should I bring?
Each rider must bring their own safety gear, including:
Certified riding helmet
Jacket and pants with protective padding
Riding boots
Gloves
Elbow/knee guards (optional but recommended)
7. Do I need to be physically fit to participate?
Yes. Riders should be in good physical and mental health, capable of handling high-altitude conditions. Please inform the organizers in advance of any medical conditions or treatment history.
8. Will there be medical support during the ride?
While we do not provide a dedicated medical team, your health data is kept confidential and will be used in case of emergencies. We recommend carrying personal medications and travel insurance for added security.
9. Are drugs or alcohol allowed during the ride?
Strictly no drugs or alcohol are allowed while riding. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for the safety of all participants.
10. What happens if the motorbike breaks down?
Our support team provides mechanical assistance during the ride. However, time lost due to mechanical issues is not refundable. All bikes are either new or in excellent condition and will be inspected prior to departure.
11. What if I choose to leave the tour early?
There are no refunds for voluntary withdrawal, disqualification due to rule violations, or failure to complete the tour.
12. What if the tour is delayed due to unforeseen events?
In cases of natural disasters, road closures, or government restrictions, we may modify or cancel routes. These situations fall under force majeure, and we are not liable for refunds in such events.
13. Do I need to sign a waiver?
Yes. All participants must sign a waiver acknowledging the risks of motorbike travel in Nepal and releasing the company from legal liability.
Avoid High-Altitude Sickness
Traveling to high-altitude regions can be both thrilling and physically demanding. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it’s essential to prepare your body and mind. Here are some key practices to help reduce the risk of altitude-related discomfort:
1. Keep Yourself Hydrated
Drink water regularly in small quantities—ideally every 10–15 minutes. Using a hydration pack can make this process more convenient, especially on the move. Proper hydration helps your body adapt more efficiently to reduced oxygen levels.
2. Consult Your Doctor About Preventative Medication
Certain medications, like acetazolamide (commonly known as Diamox), may aid in preventing altitude sickness. Please consult your physician well in advance of your journey to ensure it’s suitable for you, particularly if you have existing health conditions or allergies.
3. Prioritize Potassium-Rich Foods
Incorporate potassium-rich items such as bananas, potatoes, avocados, and spinach into your meals before and during the trip. These foods support better fluid balance and muscle function—both important for altitude adaptation.
4. Emergency Oxygen Support
We are fully equipped with emergency oxy can. Our trained guides can identify early signs of oxygen deprivation and will administer oxygen, if required. Always communicate any unusual symptoms to your guide without delay.
5. Maintain a Calm and Positive Outlook
Mental preparedness is just as vital as physical conditioning. While recognizing that oxygen levels are lower at high altitudes, it’s important to remain calm and composed. Avoid panic, stay mindful, and trust your guide’s expertise. A positive mindset can go a long way in helping your body adjust more smoothly.
6. Gradual Altitude Progression
Our itinerary is carefully crafted to follow a gradual ascent model, moving from lower to higher altitudes over successive days. This slow and steady increase gives your body time to acclimatize, significantly lowering the chances of altitude-related issues and enhancing overall comfort.
Successful high-altitude travel is rooted in smart preparation and patience. Give your body time to adjust, listen to your guide, eat well, and stay aware of how you feel each day. These proactive measures can make your highland adventure not only safe but truly unforgettable.
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