Any Question? Email Us
info@nepalhimalayastrekking.comTalk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
Any Question? Email Us
info@nepalhimalayastrekking.comTalk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
Tibet Motorbike Tour: Ultimate Guide for an Unforgettable Adventure
A Tibet Motorbike Tour is one of the most exhilarating ways to explore the "Roof of the World." Winding across rugged Himalayan terrain, sacred monasteries, ancient towns, and surreal high-altitude plateaus, this journey offers motorbike enthusiasts the perfect blend of thrill and spirituality. Whether you're gazing upon the mighty Mt. Everest, cruising alongside turquoise lakes like Yamdrok, or passing through culturally rich cities like Lhasa, every mile tells a story.
Tato: Will it be okay to do it in December? I’m planning to do the Everest Three Passes Trek in November, and after that, do Tibet.
Nepal Himalayas Trekking: 1. In December, it is still possible to do the Tibet Motorbike Tour. But it is quite cold at that time.
2. If possible, I would like to advise you to please try to do the Everest Three Pass Trek in October and the Tibet Motorbike tour in November. (Note: Possible to do in December, but November is better than December.)
Ride through the Trans-Himalayan Highway from Lhasa to the Nepal border or Mount Kailash
Visit iconic landmarks like the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Everest Base Camp (North Face)
Experience Tibetan culture firsthand, with stops in monasteries and local villages
Challenge yourself on high mountain passes such as Gyatso La (5,220m) and Pang La
Camp or stay in local guesthouses in remote, scenic areas for an authentic experience
Optional detour to the sacred Mt. Kailash, a spiritual highlight of the region
For the Tibet Motorbike Tour, Royal Enfield 411 Himalayan and Royal Enfield Classic 500 are the most preferred bikes due to their durability, off-road capability, and comfort on long rides at high altitudes. Each bike is well-maintained and equipped with luggage racks, crash guards, and spare parts. A support vehicle with a mechanic and extra fuel generally accompanies the tour for added safety and convenience.
Foreign travelers are not permitted to ride solo or independently in Tibet. However, you can ride your own motorbike as part of an organized tour with the appropriate permits and local guides. If you're importing your own bike, it must be pre-registered with Chinese customs, and you'll need a temporary Chinese driving license and a Tibetan-registered number plate. Most riders prefer using bikes provided by the tour company to avoid complicated logistics.
The ideal time for a Tibet Motorbike Tour is from May to October, when the weather is relatively stable and the roads are accessible. Here’s a quick breakdown:
May to June: Clear skies, blooming wildflowers, and pleasant temperatures
July to August: Warmer temperatures but occasional rain; great for lush landscapes
September to October: Arguably the best time—cool, dry weather with crystal-clear mountain views
Avoid the harsh winter months (November to April) as roads may be snow-blocked, and high-altitude temperatures can be extreme.
Traveling to Tibet requires more than just a Chinese visa. You must obtain several permits, including:
Tibet Travel Permit (TTP): Issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau; mandatory for all foreign travelers
Aliens' Travel Permit (ATP): Needed for restricted areas such as Everest Base Camp
Military Permit: Required if traveling to remote areas like Mt. Kailash or near the Indian border
Temporary Driving Permit and Chinese Plate: For those riding their own bikes
These permits can only be arranged through an authorized Tibetan travel agency. Independent travel is not allowed.
To process your permits and Chinese visa, you'll typically need:
A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
A Chinese Tourist Visa (L type)
Passport-sized photographs
Motorbike documentation (if bringing your own)
International Driving Permit (IDP)
Travel insurance details
Your tour operator will guide you through the process and collect the necessary documents.
Permit and visa costs vary slightly depending on the itinerary and number of restricted areas included:
Tibet Travel Permit: Usually included in your tour package
Chinese Visa (Tourist L Visa): $60–$140 USD depending on nationality
Aliens’ Travel Permit: ~$10–$30 USD
Military Permit: ~$20–$40 USD
Temporary Driving License & Plate (if needed): $150–$200 USD
Always confirm with your tour operator for updated prices.
The cost of a Tibet Motorbike Tour generally ranges between $3,000 and $6,000 USD per person for a 10–14 day trip, depending on:
Duration of the tour
Bike rental or own bike import
Group size
Hotel vs. guesthouse accommodations
Inclusions (meals, permits, support vehicle, fuel, etc.)
This typically includes all permits, accommodation, a Tibetan guide, meals, fuel, support staff, and bike rental.
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa – Acclimatization & Orientation
Day 2: Lhasa Sightseeing – Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street
Day 3: Ride Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake – Overnight at Nagartse
Day 4: Ride to Shigatse via Gyantse – Visit Pelkor Monastery
Day 5: Ride to Tingri – Mountain pass adventure
Day 6: Ride to Everest Base Camp (North Face) – Stunning views of Mt. Everest
Day 7: Ride back to Shigatse – Relax and explore
Day 8: Ride to Lhatse – Explore local villages
Day 9: Ride to Sakya Monastery – Historical Tibetan architecture
Day 10: Return to Lhasa – Scenic drive and final group dinner
Day 11: Free Day in Lhasa – Shopping & culture
Day 12: Departure from Lhasa
Note: The itinerary can be customized based on group interest and fitness level.
Elevation: 1,400m
Distance: —
Riding Hours: —
Description: Arrival in Kathmandu. Meet the tour operator, check in, and briefing about the motorbike tour. Motorcycle handover and paperwork arrangements. Rest or explore Thamel.
After breakfast, you'll embark on a guided tour of some of Kathmandu’s most iconic and spiritually significant landmarks, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Your first stop is the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, followed by a visit to the famous Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the "Monkey Temple." Next, you'll explore Bouddhanath, one of the largest and most important Buddhist stupas in the world. The tour concludes with a visit to the beautifully preserved medieval city of Patan, renowned for its rich culture, arts, and architecture.
Elevation Gain: +980m
Distance: 130 km
Riding Hours: 6–7 hrs
Description: Ride north from Kathmandu through scenic valleys, local villages, and winding roads to Syabrubesi near the Tibet border. Prepare for the border crossing the next day. Overnight in the guesthouse.
Elevation Gain: +320m
Distance: 50 km (plus border crossing)
Riding Hours: 3–4 hrs
Description: Cross the Nepal-Tibet border at Rasuwagadhi. Complete Chinese immigration/customs. Continue riding to Gyirong, the entry point to Tibet. Acclimatization walk in the afternoon.
Elevation Gain: +1,600m
Distance: 240 km
Riding Hours: 6–7 hrs
Description: Ride along the high mountain roads with magnificent views of the Himalayas. Cross high passes and vast plateaus to reach Tingri. Prepare for altitude with an easy evening.
Elevation Gain: +850m
Distance: 170 km (round trip)
Riding Hours: 5–6 hrs
Description: A thrilling ride to the North Face of Everest Base Camp. Explore Rongbuk Monastery and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Everest. Return to Tingri for the overnight.
Elevation Drop: -400m
Distance: 300 km
Riding Hours: 6–7 hrs
Description: Ride through Tibetan plains and colorful landscapes. Visit monasteries and small settlements en route. Arrive at Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama.
Elevation Gain: +100m
Distance: 90 km
Riding Hours: 2–3 hrs
Description: A short and scenic ride to Gyantse, an important historic town. Explore Kumbum Stupa and Pelkor Monastery. Relax and explore the town’s medieval charm.
Elevation Drop: -350m
Distance: 270 km
Riding Hours: 6–7 hrs
Description: An epic ride past Yamdrok Lake (one of Tibet’s sacred lakes), and over Karo La Pass (5,010m) with views of glaciers. Arrive in Lhasa, the spiritual and cultural heart of Tibet
Elevation: 3,650m
Distance: —
Riding Hours: —
Description: Explore Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Market. Dive into Tibetan culture, architecture, and religious traditions. Optional ride to nearby monasteries.
Elevation Gain: +250m
Distance: 270 km
Riding Hours: 6–7 hrs
Description: Ride back on the Friendship Highway to Shigatse, retracing scenic roads with fresh perspectives. Optional detours for photography or visiting small villages.
Elevation Drop: -1,200m
Distance: 390 km
Riding Hours: 8–9 hrs
Description: Long ride across vast landscapes, crossing high passes and deep valleys. Return to Gyirong, preparing for re-entry to Nepal
Elevation Drop: -1,300m
Distance: 180 km
Riding Hours: 7–8 hrs
Description: Cross back into Nepal, descend through the Langtang National Park roads. Return to the buzz of Kathmandu. Celebrate the epic journey with a farewell dinner.
Elevation: 1,400m
Distance: —
Riding Hours: —
Description: Transfer to the airport or continue your stay in Nepal. Option to extend trip with a Pokhara, Chitwan, or Bhutan tour.
All airport transfers as per the itinerary
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis with breakfast (BB plan)
Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu by private vehicle with a professional English-speaking guide
Twin-sharing accommodation in Tibet as per the itinerary, with breakfast included
Services of an experienced English-speaking Tibetan guide
Tibet visa fee
One support jeep was provided throughout the journey in Tibet
One support truck for the entire trip
Entry fees for all listed attractions and sites
All required travel permits
Temporary Chinese motorbike driving license
One 500 CC Royal Enfield motorbike per person
Fuel for the motorbikes
Portable oxygen cylinder in the support vehicle
One Royal Enfield specialist mechanic, including all associated costs (food, accommodation, wages, visa, permits, etc.)
Basic spare parts such as tubes, cables, bolts, light bulbs, etc.
Note: Charges may apply for major parts damaged during the ride (insurance is recommended)
Travel insurance (must include coverage for all potential risks, including motorbike accident-related damages).
Lunch and dinner are included throughout the entire trip.
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are not included.
Costs of major spare parts are excluded.
Personal expenses such as phone calls, laundry, and similar items are not covered.
Tips and gratuities for staff are not included.
| Group Size | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 | USD 2,890 |
The Tibet Motorbike Tour is an adventurous journey through the stunning landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau on two wheels. It allows travelers to explore high-altitude roads, ancient monasteries, Himalayan views, and Tibetan culture in the most thrilling way—by motorcycle.
1. Riding over some of the world’s highest roads and mountain passes
2. Visiting Lhasa, the spiritual and cultural heart of Tibet
3. Exploring Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Norbulingka
4. Experiencing Everest Base Camp (Tibet side)
5. Glimpsing Mount Kailash (on extended itineraries)
6. Authentic encounters with Tibetan people and traditions
Most tour operators provide Royal Enfield (Classic 500 / Himalayan) or BMW GS series bikes, depending on availability and route preference. Bikes are well-maintained and suitable for long-distance, high-altitude riding.
You must have:
A valid international motorcycle license (with motorcycle endorsement)
A valid motorcycle license from your home country
Be at least 21 years old (some tours require 25+). Tour organizers will handle temporary Chinese driving permits required for Tibet.
The tour is best for experienced riders due to:
High altitude and thin air
Long riding days (often 6–8 hours)
Challenging road conditions in remote areas
However, some operators offer support vehicles, making it possible for pillion passengers or backup riding.
Most Tibet motorbike tours range from 9 to 20 days, depending on the route. A classic Lhasa–Everest Base Camp–Lhasa route takes about 10–12 da