Few rides on earth compare to the raw majesty and cultural depth of the Lhasa to Kathmandu Motorbike Tour. This trans-Himalayan expedition by Himalayan Motorbikes stretches across Tibet and Nepal, tracing the ancient Friendship Highway from the sacred city of Lhasa to the vibrant capital of Kathmandu. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey where every mile unfolds breathtaking panoramas, centuries-old monasteries, and the unforgettable feeling of riding above the clouds.
The route takes you through some of the world’s highest roads and mountain passes—across shimmering turquoise lakes, remote Tibetan settlements, and the north face of Mount Everest. Starting from the spiritual heart of Tibet, the tour descends through the mighty Himalayas into the lush valleys of Nepal. More than a ride, it’s a pilgrimage of freedom, discovery, and awe.
Duration: 13 Days / 12 Nights
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Altitude: Up to 5,200 m
Best Season: May–October
Motorbikes: Royal Enfield Himalayan 411cc or Classic 500cc
Route: Lhasa – Gyantse – Shigatse – Tingri – Rongbuk – Everest Base Camp – Gyirong – Kathmandu
Ride across the Friendship Highway, one of the most scenic roads in the world.
Explore the spiritual city of Lhasa, home to Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple.
Conquer legendary high passes—Gyatso La (5,248 m) and Lalung La (5,050 m).
Visit Everest Base Camp (North Face) for a surreal view of the world’s highest peak.
Traverse crystal-clear Yamdrok Lake and dramatic Himalayan plateaus.
Experience rich Tibetan culture and Buddhist monasteries like Tashilhunpo and Rongbuk.
Descend into the lush valleys of Nepal with the thrill of crossing the Himalayas on two wheels.
Full support crew, backup vehicle, mechanic, and bilingual road captain throughout the expedition.
This ride begins in Lhasa, the heart of Tibet, where the air is thin, the skies impossibly blue, and every street hums with the rhythm of Buddhist chants. You’ll spend the first two days acclimatizing and exploring the city—visiting the Potala Palace, Norbulingka, and Barkhor Street, soaking up the sacred energy before your throttle meets the open road.
As the convoy rolls out, the Friendship Highway unveils landscapes of staggering beauty. You’ll trace the shores of Yamdrok Lake, a turquoise mirror ringed by snow-capped peaks, and cross high passes adorned with fluttering prayer flags. In Gyantse and Shigatse, Tibetan monasteries rise like fortresses from golden plains. Then the road climbs higher toward Tingri and the Rongbuk Monastery, where Everest stands in silent grandeur—so close it feels like you could touch its icy summit.
Crossing the border into Gyirong, the dry winds of Tibet give way to lush forests and waterfalls as you descend toward Nepal. The moment the Himalayas open into Kathmandu Valley, you realize you’ve just ridden through the spine of the world.
Welcome to Tibet! Transfer to your hotel and rest to acclimatize. Evening briefing and dinner with the Himalayan Motorbikes team.
Guided visits to the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and bustling Barkhor Market. Overnight in Lhasa.
Ride through sweeping plateaus, crossing Kamba La Pass (4,794 m) and stopping at the spectacular Yamdrok Lake. Continue over Karo La Pass (5,045 m) with views of Nojin Kangtsang Glacier. Overnight in Gyantse.
A shorter ride through fertile farmlands and quiet villages. Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, seat of the Panchen Lama. Overnight in Shigatse.
The terrain grows wilder as you approach the high Himalayan plateau. Cross Gyatso La Pass (5,248 m) and arrive in Tingri with views of Everest and Cho Oyu. Overnight in Tingri.
One of the most stunning rides of the journey. Follow dirt tracks toward Rongbuk Monastery (4,980 m), the highest monastery in the world. From here, ride to Everest Base Camp (North Face) for a breathtaking panorama. Overnight in Rongbuk Guesthouse.
Descend from the arid highlands into verdant valleys as Tibet fades into Nepal’s borderlands. Overnight in Gyirong.
After immigration formalities, descend into lush green hills. Feel the change in air and rhythm as you enter Nepal. Overnight in Syabrubesi.
Final ride along winding Himalayan roads before reaching Kathmandu, where the adventure concludes with a farewell dinner.
Transfer to the airport for your flight home, carrying memories of the ride of a lifetime.
The ideal window for this adventure is May through October, when the high passes are clear and the weather is stable.
May–June: Fresh greenery and moderate temperatures.
July–August: Warmer, with dramatic clouds over the plateau.
September–October: Crisp air and crystal-clear Himalayan views—perfect for photography and smooth riding.
Riding through Tibet and Nepal requires a few key documents, all handled by Himalayan Motorbikes:
Himalayan Motorbikes brings unmatched expertise in organizing high-altitude motorcycle expeditions across Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, and India. Every ride is led by passionate road captains and supported by mechanics, logistics teams, and local partners. With safety, comfort, and cultural authenticity at the core, riders can focus on what matters most—the open road, the hum of their engine, and the endless sky ahead.
The Lhasa to Kathmandu Motorbike Tour is an epic Himalayan adventure connecting Tibet’s capital, Lhasa, with Kathmandu, Nepal. Riders traverse high mountain passes, remote valleys, and scenic landscapes, experiencing Tibetan culture, Buddhist monasteries, and panoramic Himalayan views along the way. This tour combines adventure motorcycling with cultural immersion.
The tour typically lasts 10 to 14 days, depending on the chosen route and sightseeing stops. It allows riders to cover roughly 1,200–1,500 km, including acclimatization days at high altitudes and cultural visits en route.
Yes, all foreign riders require a Tibet Travel Permit, arranged through the tour operator. This permit allows entry into Tibet and travel outside Lhasa. Additionally, Chinese visas may be required depending on nationality. Operators handle paperwork to ensure smooth entry.
Adventure motorcycles like the Royal Enfield Himalayan, KTM Adventure, or Honda CB500X are ideal. These bikes handle rough terrain, steep inclines, and high-altitude conditions. They are also equipped with luggage options for long-distance touring.
The ride is moderate to challenging. Riders face gravel roads, steep inclines, and high-altitude passes. Daily rides can range from 100–200 km. Physical fitness, off-road riding experience, and patience with unpredictable weather make the journey more manageable.
Yes, this route crosses some of the highest motorable roads in the world, including passes above 5,000 meters, making it a unique adventure for motorcyclists seeking extreme high-altitude experiences.
The tour reaches altitudes of 5,200–5,400 meters at mountain passes such as Gyatso La and Nyalam Pass. These high elevations require careful acclimatization and awareness of altitude sickness symptoms.
Yes, altitude sickness can affect riders due to the extreme elevation. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Guides include rest days and acclimatization stops, monitor participants closely, and recommend hydration and gradual ascent to minimize risk.
Beginners with some motorcycling experience can join, but this tour is not recommended for complete novices due to rough terrain and high-altitude challenges. Support vehicles and guides assist less experienced riders along the route.
The ideal time is spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October). During these seasons, weather is stable, roads are mostly clear, and mountain views are spectacular. Monsoon season (July–August) brings landslides and slippery roads, while winter can bring snow and freezing temperatures.
Accommodation varies from guesthouses and lodges in rural areas to hotels in major towns like Lhasa and Kathmandu. Facilities are clean and safe, though amenities are basic in remote locations. Guides ensure comfort and arrange suitable accommodations throughout the journey.
Yes, a support vehicle accompanies the group, carrying spare parts, luggage, fuel, and emergency supplies. It ensures riders can travel light and receive assistance in case of mechanical issues, fatigue, or medical emergencies.
Some tour operators provide helmets, gloves, jackets, and protective gear on request. However, it is recommended that riders bring their own riding gear for comfort, proper fit, and safety, especially for long-distance high-altitude riding.
Riders need a valid passport, a driving license (international recommended), and travel permits for Tibet. Some operators may also require proof of travel insurance covering high-altitude motorcycling and emergency evacuation.
Yes, fuel for the motorcycles is included in most tour packages. Minor maintenance is handled during the ride by guides, while spare parts and tools are carried in support vehicles. Riders are advised to monitor their bikes and follow guide instructions for safety.
Temperatures can range from 5°C to -5°C or lower at high-altitude passes, especially early mornings and evenings. Windproof, thermal, and waterproof riding gear are essential to maintain comfort and prevent hypothermia.
Yes, many itineraries include a visit to Everest Base Camp or its vicinity, allowing riders to experience one of the world’s most iconic high-altitude destinations. Guides ensure safety and provide logistical support for access to the region.
Weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable. Routes may be altered or delayed due to snow, rain, landslides, or road closures. Guides provide alternate routes, and support vehicles help ensure rider safety during unexpected weather events.
Riders can reach Lhasa via flights from major Chinese cities or overland through Kathmandu via border crossings. International travelers generally fly into Lhasa Gonggar Airport, where guides and support teams assist with bike delivery and tour orientation.
Himalayan Motorbikes specializes in high-altitude, adventure motorcycle tours, providing experienced guides, well-maintained bikes, support vehicles, and custom itineraries. They ensure safety, cultural immersion, and an unforgettable Himalayan motorcycling experience, making them a trusted choice for riders seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
© 2011 - 2025 All rights reserved. Himalayan Motorbikes Developed By : Xenatech Nepal