Asia Motorbike Riding Travel from Chiang Mai (Thailand) to Beijing (China)

Embark on an epic motorcycle tour through East Asia, starting in the enchanting city of Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. This guided journey spans 6,000 kilometers across three countries, showcasing some of the world’s most stunning landscapes and cultural treasures.

Highlights of the Journey:

  • Diverse Landscapes: Ride through tropical rainforests, towering sub-alpine gorges, high-altitude Tibetan plateaus, and temperate arid semi-deserts.
  • Iconic Rivers: Traverse Asia’s largest rivers, including the Mekong, Yangtse, Yarlung, and Yellow River, each offering breathtaking vistas along the way.
  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Visit five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each steeped in history and architectural marvels.
  • Cultural Encounters: Encounter over a dozen ethnic groups, each with unique cultures and traditions, from vibrant markets to ancient towns.
  • Fascinating Cities: Explore some of Asia’s most captivating cities, including Chiang Mai, Lijiang, Shangri-La, Xi’an, and culminating at the foot of the Great Wall in Beijing.

This all-inclusive guided tour promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, blending unparalleled riding experiences with cultural immersion across the heart of Eastern Asia.

Chiang Mai to Beijing  Motobike Riding Travel Tips

Embarking on a motorcycle tour from Chiang Mai to Beijing is an exciting adventure through diverse landscapes and cultures. Here are some essential travel tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey:

Before You Go:

  1. Documentation:
    • Passport and Visas: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. Obtain necessary visas for countries along your route.
    • International Driving Permit: Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) that is valid for motorcycles.
  2. Motorcycle Preparation:
    • Mechanical Check-up: Ensure your motorcycle is in top condition. Check brakes, tires, lights, and fluids before departure.
    • Spare Parts: Carry essential spare parts and tools for minor repairs. Include tire repair kits and basic maintenance items.
  3. Route Planning:
    • Itinerary: Plan your route with detailed stops, accommodations, and sightseeing spots.
    • Weather Considerations: Check weather conditions along your route, especially in higher altitudes.

During the Tour:

  1. Safety Gear:
    • Helmet: Wear a DOT or ECE-approved helmet at all times.
    • Riding Gear: Dress in protective riding gear, including gloves, jacket, pants, and boots.
  2. Driving Tips:
    • Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with traffic laws and regulations in each country.
    • Road Conditions: Be prepared for varying road conditions, from highways to mountainous terrain.
  3. Health and Safety:
    • Altitude Adjustment: Take time to acclimate to higher altitudes, especially when riding in mountainous areas.
    • Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated and carry snacks for energy during long rides.
  4. Communication and Navigation:
    • GPS Navigation: Use GPS devices or mobile apps for navigation. Download offline maps as backup.
    • Communication: Carry a mobile phone with local SIM cards for communication and emergencies.
  5. Cultural Sensitivity:
    • Respect Local Customs: Learn basic phrases in local languages and respect cultural norms in each country you visit.
    • Photography: Ask for permission before taking photos, especially of people or sacred sites.

Logistics:

  1. Accommodations:
    • Book in Advance: Especially during peak travel seasons, book accommodations ahead of time.
    • Secure Parking: Choose accommodations with secure parking facilities for your motorcycle.
  2. Money Matters:
    • Currency: Carry local currency and have access to international banking services along the route.
    • Budget Planning: Estimate daily expenses for fuel, accommodations, meals, and sightseeing.
  3. Emergency Preparedness:
    • Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel and medical insurance that covers motorcycle travel.
    • Emergency Contacts: Carry contact information for local emergency services and your embassy or consulate.
  4. Enjoy the Journey:
    • Take Breaks: Plan regular stops to rest, stretch, and appreciate the scenery.
    • Meet Locals: Engage with locals to learn about their culture and traditions.

By following these travel tips, you can make the most of your motorcycle tour from Chiang Mai to Beijing, creating lasting memories of an unforgettable journey through Southeast Asia and China.

Day-by-Day Itinerary: Chiang Mai to Beijing Motorcycle Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Chiang Mai, Thailand

  • Activity: Arrive in Chiang Mai, transfer to your hotel.
  • Highlights: Meet ‘n’ greet, bike paperwork, evening dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Day 2: Chiang Mai to Chiang Khong (Thailand)

  • Distance: Approx. 300 km
  • Route: Ride north via Highway 118, visit White Temple & Golden Triangle.
  • Highlights: Scenic roads of northern Thailand, cultural stops.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Chiang Khong.

Day 3: Chiang Khong to Luang Namtha (Thailand/Laos)

  • Distance: Approx. 190 km
  • Route: Cross Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, proceed to Luang Namtha.
  • Highlights: Border crossings, Laos scenery, local interactions.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Luang Namtha.

Day 4: Luang Namtha to Jinghong, Xishuangbanna (China)

  • Distance: Approx. 165 km
  • Route: Cross into China at Mohan border, ride to Jinghong.
  • Highlights: Mekong River, tropical landscapes, Jinghong city.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Jinghong.

Day 5: Jinghong to Jingdong

  • Distance: Approx. 360 km
  • Route: Head north through rainforest, visit Pu’er tea plantations.
  • Highlights: Tea Horse Road, ethnic towns.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Jingdong.

Day 6: Jingdong to Dali

  • Distance: Approx. 200 km
  • Route: Ride to Dali via highway.
  • Highlights: Dali Old Town, cultural and historical sites.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Dali.

Day 7: Dali to Lijiang

  • Distance: Approx. 170 km
  • Route: Visit Three Pagodas, ride to Lijiang.
  • Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage site, explore Lijiang Old Town.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Lijiang.

Day 8: Rest Day in Lijiang

  • Activities: Explore Lijiang Old Town, optional show at Jade Dragon Mountain.
  • Rest and Preparation: Leisure day to rest and enjoy local culture.

Day 9: Lijiang to Shangri-La

  • Distance: Approx. 220 km
  • Route: Ride through Tiger Leaping Gorge, reach Shangri-La.
  • Highlights: Tiger Leaping Gorge, Tibetan culture in Shangri-La.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Shangri-La.

Day 10: Shangri-La to Daocheng

  • Distance: Approx. 300 km
  • Route: Enter Tibet Plateau, ride to Daocheng.
  • Highlights: Tibetan landscapes, mountain roads.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Daocheng.

Day 11: Daocheng to Xiangcheng

  • Distance: Approx. 300 km
  • Route: Cross Henduan Mountains, visit Xiangcheng.
  • Highlights: Gorges, Tibetan villages.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Xiangcheng.

Day 12: Xiangcheng to Danba

  • Distance: Approx. 288 km
  • Route: Ride through Yala Pass to Danba.
  • Highlights: Tibetan villages, scenic valleys.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Danba.

Day 13: Rest Day in Danba

  • Activities: Visit Danba Towers, Tibetan village exploration.
  • Cultural Experience: Optional outdoor Tibetan singing and dancing.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Danba.

Day 14: Danba to Hongyuan

  • Distance: Approx. 310 km
  • Route: Ride through Tibetan plateau, pass nomadic landscapes.
  • Highlights: Grasslands, Tibetan nomads.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Hongyuan.

Day 15: Hongyuan to Labrang

  • Distance: Approx. 380 km
  • Route: Visit Langmusi, ride to Labrang Monastery.
  • Highlights: Labrang Monastery, Tibetan cultural experience.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Labrang.

Day 16: Rest Day in Labrang

  • Activities: Explore Labrang Monastery, cultural immersion.
  • Historical Sites: Largest monastery in Amdo Tibetan region.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Labrang.

Day 17: Labrang to Lanzhou

  • Distance: Approx. 430 km
  • Route: Ride to Lanzhou, capital of Gansu Province.
  • Highlights: Silk Road city, cultural transition.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Lanzhou.

Day 18: Lanzhou to Xi’an

  • Distance: Approx. 450 km
  • Route: Fast ride to Xi’an, ancient capital of China.
  • Highlights: Terracotta Warriors, Xi’an city exploration.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Xi’an.

Day 19: Rest Day in Xi’an

  • Activities: Visit Terra Cotta Warriors, city walls, historical sites.
  • Cultural Exploration: Guided tour of Xi’an’s ancient treasures.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Xi’an.

Day 20: Xi’an to Pingyao

  • Distance: Approx. 510 km
  • Route: Ride to Pingyao, ancient walled city.
  • Highlights: Pingyao Old Town, traditional Chinese architecture.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Pingyao.

Day 21: Pingyao to Datong

  • Distance: Approx. 385 km
  • Route: Visit Yungang Grottoes, ride to Datong.
  • Highlights: Ancient Great Wall, Mongolian frontier city.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Datong.

Day 22: Datong to Beijing

  • Distance: Approx. 275 km
  • Route: Ride to the Great Wall, celebration at hotel.
  • Highlights: Great Wall of China, concluding the motorcycle journey.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at the foot of the Great Wall.

Day 23: Beijing

  • Activities: Visit Great Wall in the morning, explore central Beijing.
  • Highlights: Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Beijing.

Day 24: Beijing

  • Activities: Guided tours of Forbidden City, historical sites.
  • Cultural Exploration: Delve into Beijing’s ancient and modern marvels.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Beijing.

Day 25: Departure from Beijing

  • Activity: Tour concludes after breakfast.
  • Departure: Transfer to airport or onward travel arrangements.

Tips for the Tour

  • Documentation: Ensure passports, visas, and vehicle permits are up-to-date.
  • Weather: Pack accordingly for varied climates, especially in higher altitudes.
  • Safety: Always wear proper riding gear, follow local traffic laws.
  • Local Culture: Respect local customs and traditions throughout the journey.

By following this detailed itinerary and tips, you’ll embark on an unforgettable motorcycle tour from Chiang Mai to Beijing, experiencing the rich cultures, stunning landscapes, and historical wonders along the way.