Description
TIBET- “Roof of the World”
A sacred land of myths and mysteries inhabited by the ever smiling people, has not only exerted a magnetic pull upon travelers for centuries but also spies, missionaries, scholars, geographers, mystics, soldiers and cranks, etc. Yet, only a few intrepid, serious and determined have been able to make it.
Tibet was opened to tourism in 1985. Before this, it avoided influence from the West and this country developed its unique culture and religion independently. Since Tibet was governed by the spiritual leaders, monasteries and religious institutions were the backbone of power so the importance and prestige were shown by the size and magnificent architecture of these buildings. Tibetan Buddhism contains many elements of their older religion,” Bon Po” which worshipped the sky, moon, sun, fire, soil and even evil spirits and this is why a monastery such as Tashilhunpo contains thousands of unique statues, paintings (thangka), religious and historical books. The Monasteries are crowded by pilgrims who often travel long distances to fulfill their vows and wishes and their emotions show that religion still holds a very important place in their daily lives.
Full name: Tibet Autonomous Region of China
Area: 1.2 m. sq. km
Population: 3 million
In Exile: 300,000
Capital city: Lhasa (Population 200,000)
People: Tibetan & Chinese
Language: Tibeto Burmese, Tibetan and Chinese
Religion: 90% Buddhist, 1% Muslim, 3% bon, 6% others
Government: Occupied by China in 1949/1950
Currency: Yuan (Y 6.87 = US$ 1.00)
Geography: Tibet has border with India, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan and Burma
Climate: Spring (May to June) – Best weather condition, May to Mid-September Winter – (October to April)
What to wear: Light weight clothing is recommended for May to June, Warm garments are required from September to April. An umbrella or a raincoat is a must for the summer season.
Voltage: Standard voltage only 220 volts.
The Tibetan landscape changes from lush green to rugged and barren and harsh and cold, yet, magnificent and awe inspiring at the same time. The many serene and sacred lakes you come across makes you truly understand why they say it’s the “water tank of central Asia”.
Riding on the Roof of the World on a legendary RE HIMALAYAN (411CC) motorcycle is THE ultimate biking experience for any passionate biker and traveller alike. Gliding along the NEPAL-CHINA friendship highway which is smooth as silk and over some of the world’s highest passes of over 5000m is surely an “adventure of a lifetime”.
ITINERARY
Day 01: Welcome to Kathmandu (1370m)
Upon arrival met by the representative and transferred to the hotel.
Rest of the day is free to relax.
Eve: A brief introduction of the trip followed by a welcome dinner. Passports will be collected for TIBET visa processing which takes 3 working days.
After the dinner, transfer to the Hotel.
Overnight at the Hotel
Day 02: Sightseeing Tour of Kathmandu (Visa Processing Day 01)
09:00 Hrs: After breakfast met by guide and board the vehicle for Full day’s sightseeing tour of Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple and Kathmandu City.
The Boudhanath Stupa is located 6 kilometers Northeast of Kathmandu and is a colossal imposing Stupa standing about 36 meters and is one of the oldest Buddhist monuments ever built in Nepal. The Stupa stands on the massive three level Mandala style platforms surrounded by colorful family style houses. The Stupa is said to have been built in the 5th Century and is a sight of great veneration to the Buddhist.
Continue on to Pashupanath Temple – the most sacred of the Hindu Temples in the world and is amongst the five principle pilgrimage sites for the Hindus. On an annual pilgrimage during Shivaratri Festival, thousands of devotees of Lord Shiva from all the Hindu communities of the world, pay their homage here.
Pashupatinath is the reincarnation of Shiva in his most benevolent form as the shepherd of fertility and so there are no animal sacrifices in this temple. Only fruits, flowers and vermilion are offered. It lies on the banks of the Bagmati river and for the Hindus, to be cremated at Pashupatinath, means a direct passage to heaven.
After sightseeing of Pasupatinath tour, we visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, the social, religious and urban focal point of the Capital City, a cluster of ancient temples, palaces, courtyards and streets that dates back to the 12th and 18th century.
The major tourist attractions on this tour includes a visit to the Hanuman Dhoka (Hanuman gate) which takes its name from the Monkey God, Hanuman from the epic, Ramayana The palace of the Malla Kings located in the Hanuman Dhoka is of the 14th Century and was a ceremonial palace of the Shah dynasty. Important traditional Royal ceremonies including the coronation of the King of Nepal used to be conducted at Hanuman Dhoka Palace.
Near the Hanuman Dhoka is the house of the Living Goddess Kumari – Kumari Bahal. Two painted stone Lions stand guard at the entrance. Visitors may enter the courtyard to see the Living Goddess but are forbidden to take photographs.
After the visit, return to the Hotel.
Overnight at the Hotel
Day 03: Ride around Kathmandu (visa processing day 02)
08:00 HRS: After breakfast, met by the Road Captain and Mechanic at the hotel lobby and start a ride to Sankhu.
Sankhu is approximately 16 kilometers north east of Katmandu which takes about 45 minutes, through the hustle and bustle of the city. It is Newari town rich in social, cultural as well as religious values and the town has been planned in a gridiron pattern, in the shape of Shankha (conch shell), thus its name. Sankhu is an old town started predominantly as a Newar community and even today, almost all people in Sankhu are Newars. Sankhu (‘sakwo’ called by the locals) was established in the Kaligat era in 1801. The legend has it that it was formed based on the ideas of goddess Bajrayogini – a tantric goddess and one of the four yoginis of the Kathmandu Valley. Note : Sankhu as with other areas of Sindhupalchowk district was badly affected by the earthquake of 25th April, 2015 and is now under restoration and renovation.
After a short break, continue our ride to Nagarkot which takes about 1 ½ – 2 hours with short breaks in between to relax, enjoy the views of the valley on one side and mountains on the other. Occasionally mingling with local people is fun and a great way to explore and experience rural Nepal and its culture.
Nagarkot is a small hilltop town and lies on the ridge on the valleys northeast rim overlooking a big chunk of the Western, Central and the Eastern Himalayas, including five of the world’s 10 highest Peaks- Mt. Everest (8848 M), Mt. Lhotse 8516 M), Mt. Cho-Oyu (8201M), Mt. Makalu (8463 M), and Mt. Encounter (8163 M). Beside magnificent views of the Himalayas, Nagarkot also offers one of the best sunrise and sunset over the horizon.
After spending some time, we continue our ride and descend on a winding road for another 13 kms to the ancient Bhaktapur City or the “City of Devotees” situated at an altitude of 1,401 m. The city covers an area of 4 square miles and is shaped like a conch shell. Pottery and weavings are its traditional industries.
Before starting our sightseeing we will halt for lunch.
The sightseeing tour of Bhaktapur includes the Durbar Square, which is the main square of the city and contains innumerable temples and other architectural showpieces like Lion Gate, the statue of Bhupatindra Malla the Picture Galley, the Golden Gate, the Palace of 55 windows, the Bastille temple and the Bell of barking dogs, etc. The statue of Bhupatindra Malla in the act of worship is placed on a column facing the palace. Of the many statues available in Nepal, this is considered to be the most magnificent.
Also visit The Golden Gate, the entrance to the main counter of the Palace of 55 windows. Built by King Ranjit Malla, the gate is one of the most beautiful and richly carved specimens of its kind in the entire world. This gate is embellished with deities and monsters of marvelous intricacy.
The Palace of 55 Windows was built in the seventeenth century by King Bhupatindra Malla. Among the brick walls with their gracious settings and sculptural design, is a balcony of 55 windows. This balcony is the masterpiece of wood carving.
Continue to Natyapola Temple through a narrow street. This five storey pagoda was built in 1702 A.D. by King Bhupatindra Malla. It stands on a five-terraced platform and on each of the terraces, squat a pair of figures, two famous wrestlers, two elephants, two lions, two griffins, Baghiani, Singini – the tiger and the lion goddesses. This is one of the tallest pagodas and is famous for its massive structure and subtle workmanship.
After Sightseeing tour of Bhaktapur city, return to Kathmandu and check into the hotel.
LATE PM: FREE FOR PREPARATION FOR THE RIDE
Overnight at the Hotel
Day 04: Ride Kathmandu to Timure via Syabrubesi (2135m/137kms/6-7 hrs)
Negotiate traffic out of the Kathmandu city to the Ringroad cross section – Balaju. From here, follow the Nagarjun highway to Kakani with the winding and narrow forested road.
We will have a short break here to see the beautiful mountain views.
From here it is a steep winding descent till Trishuli but the scenery is fantastic. Deep forested areas, with clear flowing streams and waterfalls provide visitors of what Nepal is all about.
Trishuli – The beauty of the area is not easily forgotten. The rolling hills, the trishuli river, ethnic villages, suspension bridges all make it a very interesting ride.
It is a good place to stop for lunch.
After lunch head north and continue ride to Dhunche. From here steep descend on a winding and snaky trail till Syabrubesi.
Note: There are many military and Police check posts and everyone is required to show permits and luggage searched. Usually they are looking for animal and flowers that people take from the National park.
Upon arrival at Syabrubesi, continue ride for another 11 kms to Timure.
Upon arrival, check in to the lodge.
Overnight at the Lodge
Day 05: Ride Timure to Kyirong Town (2700m/28kms/3hrs)
After breakfast ride approx. 4 Km to Kyirong – Nepal / Tibet border, the last border town, complete Nepali Immigration formalities and cross the friendship bridge. Complete Chinese Immigration and met by guide and Rider from Tibet. Proceed for China Custom clearance for the motorcycles and after completion, load up the gear on the waiting Landcruiser / Mini Truck and ride for another 24 kilometer to Kyirong town.
Kyirong, one of the frontier counties of Tibet Autonomous Region, lies in the southwest of Tibet and the southwest of Xigaze prefecture, covering 9,126 square kilometers with a population of 10 thousand. kyirong means in Tibetan happy village. kyirong Town is one of the important towns in Kyirong County, with a sea level of 2,700 meters. Pagba Monastery, Chagar Monastery and Qiangzhen Monastery are main monasteries of Kyirong and kyirong Jiangcun Nature Reserve is the famous beauty spot.
Up to 1960 one of the main trade routes between Nepal and Tibet passed through this region. Easily accessible from Nepal, it was used several times as an entrance gate for military actions from the site of Nepal against Tibet.
Upon arrival check in to the Hotel.
Rest of the day is free to relax or explore around the town to acclimatize.
Overnight at the Hotel
Day 06: Ride to Kyirong Town to Saga (4640m/170kms/5hrs)
After breakfast, ride through the beautiful Tibetan landscape. We enter a valley and the climb to a pass and then again descend into another valley one after another and each one more scenic than the next. Finally after about 3 ½ hours, we get a glimpse of the mighty Brahmaputra river or locally known as “Tsang Po” and ride along its banks for a while and take the bridge (newly constructed. In the earlier years, all passengers and vehicles had to be ferried across) to arrive at the hustle and bustle of the Saga town.
Overnight at Saga the Grand Hotel or Similar
Day 07: Ride Saga to Paryang (4700m/240kms/8hrs)
After Breakfast, Set out for the Ride from Saga to Paryang (240 km) via Dzongba, a recent settlement that has come up because of the construction of the new highway. The Ride is scenic as we pass turquoise blue lakes, grazing yaks and sheep on the vast Tibetan plateau. Enroute we see sand dunes which is believed to have been created by the shifting sands from the Gobi desert.
Upon arrival at Payrang, Check into Guest House
Overnight at the Guest house
Day 08: Ride Payrang to Darchen (3950m/255kms/6hrs)
After Breakfast, we ride out from Paryang to Darchen (255 kms) via Mayum La (5151 m). It is a scenic ride as we past Kongyu Tso, climb up to the Mayum la pass and pass through the village of Thongchen.
Right in front of Mt. Kailash, Darchen is the starting point for the pilgrimages in this area and many pilgrims pitch their tents here.
Upon arrival, Check into a Guest house
Overnight at the Guest House
Day 09: Excursion around Darchen and Ride to Mansarovar, Rakas Tal and Back
After Breakfast, set out by heading west from the enclosed compound of Darchen Leaving behind the village high above the Barkha plain to the Lha Chu valley and arrive at Tarboche, tall pole adorned with prayer flags are replaced annually during the Saka Dawa festival on Buddha’s birthday, the full moon day during the Tibetan month of May / June.
Since this Full Moon is extra special as it falls in the Year of the Horse. Buddist Pilgrims believe that a single KORA or PRIKRAMA done in the Year of the Horse is equivalent to 12 times in a normal year. Therefore there will be close to 500,000 – 600,000 Tibetan pilgrims from all over Tibet congregating for this special occasion. The festivities last for the first half of the day and once the rites are completed, all pilgrims set out for a circumambulation of this holy mountain. Since there will be a mad rush, we shall visit the take the rest of the afternoon visiting the nearby holy places.
Nearby is the Chorten – Kang – ni. It is considered an auspicious act to pass through the small archway formed by the two legs of this Chorten. The trail continues across the plain to Shersong and after about 30 minutes to arrive at the bridge leading to the Nyanri Gompa, perched high on the hillside above. All the monasteries on the Kailash circuit were destroyed during the Cultural Revolution. Nyanri Gompa also known as the Chhuku Gompa because of the image of Chhuku Rimpoche it’s houses was the first to be rebuilt and contains a few treasures that were rescued from the original gompas.
Later ride to the view Point of Rakshas Lake and Manasarovar Lake.
The Lake Manasarovar, Hindus believe, was created by Brahma as reflection of the depth of his soul-manas and represents the female energy of Yoni of the Universe, while Mt. Kailsah symbolizes the male energy of the Lingum. At 14459 ft. Lake Manasarovar is the highest body of fresh water in the world. Holy to Buddhists alike, it was once surrounded by 8 monasteries. Buddhist believes in Queen Maya, Buddha’s mother was carried here by the gods and some of Mahatma Gandhi’s ash was carried here from India and scattered in the Lake.
After spending some time in Rakas Tal View point and in Lake Mansarovar, we ride back to Darchen.
Overnight at the Guest House
Day 10: Ride Darchen to Ringdo Xiang (220kms/6-7hrs)
After breakfast, we ride for 160kms in a Jiading road. After we reach to the junction (160kms) in a Jiading road we head towards Northwest towards Ringdo Xiang. We ascend to the Dhajang la pass. After spending sometime in a Pass, we descend to the Ringdo Xiang. On this day’s ride over the sandy and rocky landscape of Tibet, other sites like lake, nomads chasing hundreds of yaks and sheep, keep you busy.
Upon arrival, check into Guest House
Overnight at the Guest House
Day 11: Ride Ringdo Xiang to Tsochen (3950m/230kms/5-6hrs)
After Breakfast, Set out for Tsochen in a county road. The route today is relatively straight forward but scenic at times when we ride along the Taruo Lake, Chabyer Co.
Upon arrival at Tsochen, check into the guest house.
Tsochen is a barren town near the northwest corner of the large Lake Tashi Namtso. It consists of one main street and little else. The Existing hotel space is taken up by Chinese soldiers or officials. Therefore we will need to be prepared to pitch a tent in a sheltered courtyard.
Overnight at the Guest House
Day 12: Ride Tsochen to Saga (4300m/269kms/6hrs)
After Breakfast, cross the Tsochen Tsangpo and Continue in South on the main road we reach Kyangtreng Township, on the shore of Lake Kering –Tso. After 14 kms there is a trun-off on the right east towards Yutra Tsangpo Valley. Rider must be very careful otherwise road can lead to treacherous quick sand. The road offers a vista of ever-changing scenery, snow-capped Mountains among them Mt. Sanglung is one. We pass through small Tibetan Hamlets nestled against the leeside of stony ridges. Snaking its way south down we reach Takyel – Tso. The road skirts a small lake and then passes along the full length of Takyel – tso, which is teeming with fish. Down the slope ro the left of the road there is a large geothermal area. If the water table is high enough geysers spout forth every few minutes or so. Cross the concrete bridge on a straight road to junction at Raga.
From raga about 56 Kilometers we reach Saga.
Upon Arrival at Saga, check into Guest House.
Overnight at the Guest House
Day 13: Ride Saga to Kyirong town (173kms/5-6hrs)
After breakfast, Set out for the ride to Kyirong. From saga, we head south towards Kyirong in a Lunzhu Road. We continue straight in this road until for about 64 kms near Paiku tso Lake. After then turn right towards Kyirong Town.
Upon arrival, check in to the Hotel.
Rest of the day is free to relax.
Overnight at the Hotel
Day 14: Ride Kyirong Town to Kathmandu (1370m/180kms/6hrs)
After early breakfast, Ride down 24kms to the border of Nepal and Tibet. Here we bid farewell to our Guide and Rider from Tibet and complete Chinese Immigration and then cross the small makeshift bridge and enter Rasuwagadhi into Nepal.
Met by representatives from Nepal to assist and complete Nepal Customs and Immigration which take some time and we enjoy a break for tea / coffee and some Nepali / India snacks.
The Ride from here is along the Pasang Lhamu highway with switch backs and dirt sections. This section of the highway is vulnerable to landslides and regular blockades during the monsoons. As we descend along the winding road, we will Ride along the edge of the Langtang national park which will fall on your left. Most of the Ride today will be slow and steady as this section is the major entry for goods to Kathmandu from China. We will come across big trucks and the road is just big enough for it. So giving way and waiting turns at corners and narrow stretches is time consuming.
80kms Ride from the border brings us to a small town of Bidur for a lunch break. From here, its another 60kms Ride to Kathmandu via Dhikure and Gurje Bhanjyang but will take about ¾ hours.
Upon arrival Kathmandu, check into the hotel.
EVE: Farewell dinner
Overnight at the Hotel, Kathmandu
Day 15: Final departure
After breakfast, met by representative and transferred to the airport for the onward flight home. (Reporting time is at least 3hrs before flight time.
**END OF ARRANGEMENTS**
Cost Includes & Excludes
THE COST INCLUDES:
NEPAL PORTION
• To the cost of all transfer to and from airport / hotel / airport in a private deluxe a/c vehicle accompanied by representative.
• Welcome dinner at a Typical Nepali restaurant with transfer in a private deluxe a/c vehicle accompanied by representative.
• Farewell dinner at a Rum Doodle restaurant with transfer in a private deluxe a/c vehicle accompanied by representative.
• 04 Nights’ accommodation on twin sharing basis at Hotel Royal Singi or Similar in Kathmandu on bed and breakfast basis. Inclusive of all the government taxes. (Currently 24.3 %)
• Sightseeing tour of Pasupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa and Kathmandu city, as per the itinerary in a private vehicle accompanied by an experienced English speaking guide.
• Monumental entrance fees applicable for the sightseeing tour.
• Service of English speaking Guide from Sacred Summits.
• Hire of 411cc Royal Enfield Himalayan motorcycle for the entire trip as per the itinerary.
• Cost of fuel for the bikes.
• Services of an experienced Road Captain on motorcycle including his meals, accommodation, daily allowance
• Services of an experienced mechanic including his meals, accommodation, daily allowance
• Support of a 4X4 back up vehicle to carry luggage and spares for Nepal portion Kathmandu / Nagarkot /Syabrubesi / Timure / Kathmandu (Pre and post Tibet Tour) including fuel and driver and his daily allowances.
• 01 night stay at Syabrubesi or Timure at a lodge/ Guest House with attached bathroom on twin sharing basis and inclusive of breakfast and all applicable govt. taxes. (Currently 24.3%)
• All Government taxes
TIBET PORTION
• Visa Fee for Tibet of USD 120.00.00 (process which takes two working days) per person for all nationals except US nationals (US nationals need to pay an additional USD 120.00) (Visa fees are subject to change without notice)
• Hire of 411 CC Royal Enfield HIMALAYAN motorcycle for the entire trip as per the itinerary.
• Cost of fuel for the bikes.
• Services of an experienced Road Captain on motorcycle including his meals, accommodation, daily allowance and visa fees.
• Services of an experienced mechanic including his meals, accommodation, daily allowance and visa fees.
• Support of a Twin Cab Truck in Tibet to carry spare parts and luggage and mechanic for the entire trip as per the itinerary.
• Documentation for Tibet travel permit and a special permit for Everest Base Camp.
• Services of a knowledgeable Tibetan Guide from Lhasa Agency for the entire tour.
• Permit for Motorcycles to enter Tibet and the Everest Base Camp region in Tibet.
• Twin sharing accommodations with daily breakfast on local best hotel and guest house;,02 nights at Kyirong Phuntsok Rabsel Hotel, 01 night at Rongbuk Guest House & 01 night at Dingri Kangar Hotel or similar standard hotel
• A support truck for luggage transfer .Tibetan guide and Nepal escort team or Mechanical staff will sit with the support truck.
• Bike compulsory insurance
• Bike border paperwork
• Temporary bike driving license
• All monastery entrance fees during sightseeing tours
• Electric bus ride from Chuzom / Rongbuk Monastery / Chuzom (as per the itinerary).
• Comprehensive medical kit.
THE COST EXCLUDES:
NEPAL PORTION
• International Airfares.
• Nepal Visa fees (If applicable).
• Personal Insurance
• Covid Related all Travel Insurance and PCR Check-up cost
• Meals (Lunch & Dinner) while the guest stay at hotels in Kathmandu Except for Welcome Dinner & Farewell Dinner.
• Items of a personal nature such as bar bills telephone calls, laundry, extra mileage and any extra costs incurred due to natural calamities, flight delays etc.
• Personal medication
• Insurance for or against accidents, loss of life, theft etc.
• Personal insurance, evacuation and medical expenses.
• Tips for the Guide, Road Captain, Mechanic, Hotel Staffs etc on tour.
• Costs incurred due to cancellation of flights, altitude sickness or unforeseen circumstances (riots, natural calamities etc) and situations beyond the control of Moto Himalaya Tours & Travels (P) Ltd and its associates.
TIBET PORTION
• Supplement for TIBET visa for US nationals of USD 120.00 per person
• Personal insurance and evacuation.
• Flight delays or cancellation due to adverse weather condition.
• All major meals (lunch and dinner) throughout the entire trip at the hotels and Guesthouses OR at local restaurants on en-route stopovers
• Photography charges for Still and Video cameras inside monasteries.
• Items of a personal nature such as bar bills, alcoholic beverages, bottled -drinks and mineral water, extra mileage, etc.
• Personal gratuities such as tips to Road captain, mechanic, hotel staff, guides and drivers etc.
• FINE for venturing into prohibited area
• Oxygen and Mineral water
• Covid test fee and Quarantine fee if needed
• Costs incurred due to natural calamities, strikes, breakdowns and beyond the control of Moto Himalaya Tours & Travels (P) Ltd and its associates.
• Items not mentioned in the cost includes
*****
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