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.
It’s a trans-Himalayan motorcycle expedition from Tibet to Nepal via the Friendship Highway, ending in Kathmandu.
The journey takes about 13 days, including acclimatization and sightseeing.
Yes. Himalayan Motorbikes arranges all Tibet Travel Permits and border documents.
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 411cc is ideal for altitude, endurance, and comfort.
Moderate to challenging. The road includes high-altitude passes and gravel stretches.
Yes, parts of the route exceed 5,000 meters—making it one of the world’s highest road adventures.
Around 5,200 meters at Gyatso La Pass.
It can occur, but acclimatization days and gradual ascent help minimize risks.
It’s recommended for riders with some prior touring or off-road experience.
May to October offers the safest and clearest weather conditions.
Mix of comfortable 3-star hotels in cities and simple lodges or guesthouses in remote areas.
Yes, a jeep accompanies the group with luggage, spares, and medical supplies.
Yes, Himalayan Motorbikes can arrange rental gear upon request.
A valid passport, travel visa, and International Driving Permit.
Yes, all fuel, spares, and mechanical assistance are covered.
Temperatures can drop below freezing at high passes, especially near Everest.
Yes, the route includes the North Base Camp at Rongbuk Monastery.
Alternate plans are made to ensure safety without losing the adventure spirit.
You can fly from Kathmandu, Chengdu, or other major Chinese cities.
Because they combine authentic local expertise with decades of Himalayan motorbiking experience—ensuring an unforgettable and safe journey.
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