16 Days Kyrgyzstan-China-Nepal Self-Driving Tour from Xinjiang Kashgar to Tibet Gyirong

The 16 Days China Self-Driving Tour from Xinjiang Kashgar to Tibet Gyirong Border (Kyrgyzstan-China-Nepal) offers an adventurous journey through western China. You’ll traverse beautiful snow-capped mountains, vast prairies, deserts, and experience colorful folk culture. This route takes you through parts of the ancient Silk Road and the wild Qinghai-Tibet plateau, reaching the roof of the world.

Trip Highlights:

  • Kashgar Bazaar: A bustling market reflecting the rich culture of the Silk Road.
  • Idkar Mosque: One of the largest and most important mosques in China.
  • Abakh Hodja Tomb: A significant historical and religious site.
  • Banggongcuo Lake: A stunning high-altitude lake.
  • Manasarovar Lake: A sacred lake in Tibet revered in Hinduism and Buddhism.
  • Mt. Kailash: A spiritual center for several religions.
  • Mt. Everest: The highest mountain in the world.

Main Attractions:

  • Kashgar Sunday Market
  • Idkar Mosque
  • Abakh Hodja Tomb
  • Banggongcuo Lake
  • Tuolin Temple
  • Guge Kingdom Ruins
  • Mt. Kailash
  • Manasarovar Lake
  • Mt. Everest Base Camp

Travel Tips:

  • Preparation: Ensure vehicle documentation is up-to-date, carry essential supplies and spare parts.
  • Altitude Sickness: Acclimate properly to high altitudes to avoid altitude sickness.
  • Weather: Be prepared for variable weather conditions; carry appropriate clothing.
  • Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Navigation: Have a reliable GPS or navigation system.
  • Cash: Keep cash handy for tolls and emergencies.

Day-by-Day Itinerary:

Day 1: Irkstan to Kashgar
Driving Distance: 50km
Accommodation: Hotel in Kashgar

  • Activities: Enter China, complete border formalities, and drive to Kashgar.

Day 2: Kashgar
Driving Distance: N/A
Accommodation: Hotel in Kashgar

  • Activities: Visit Kashgar Sunday Market, Idkar Mosque, and Abakh Hodja Tomb.

Day 3: Kashgar to Yecheng
Driving Distance: 260km
Accommodation: Hotel in Yecheng

  • Activities: Half-day visit in Kashgar, then drive to Yecheng.

Day 4: Yecheng to Maza
Driving Distance: 250km
Accommodation: Hotel in Maza

  • Activities: Drive to Maza with sightseeing along the way.

Day 5: Maza to Dahongliutan to Tielongtan
Driving Distance: 360km
Accommodation: Hotel in Tielongtan

  • Activities: Drive to Tielongtan and prepare for the next day’s high-altitude challenge.

Day 6: Tielongtan to Jieshandaban (5600m) to Songxi to Rutog
Driving Distance: 370km
Accommodation: Hostel in Rutog

  • Activities: Drive past Jieshandaban Pass, then continue to Rutog.

Day 7: Rutog to Shiquanhe to Zhada
Driving Distance: 350km
Accommodation: Hostel in Zhada

  • Activities: Visit Bangongcuo Lake in the morning, then drive to Zhada.

Day 8: Zhada to Mt. Kailash
Driving Distance: 220km
Accommodation: Hostel near Mt. Kailash

  • Activities: Visit Tuolin Temple and Guge Kingdom Ruins, then drive to Mt. Kailash.

Day 9: Mt. Kailash
Driving Distance: N/A
Accommodation: Hostel near Mt. Kailash

  • Activities: Full day to explore and experience Mt. Kailash.

Day 10: Mt. Kailash to Manasarovar Lake
Driving Distance: 150km
Accommodation: Hostel near Manasarovar Lake

  • Activities: Drive to and explore Manasarovar Lake.

Day 11: Manasarovar Lake to Zhongba
Driving Distance: 320km
Accommodation: Hotel in Zhongba

  • Activities: Leave the holy lake and mountains, drive to Zhongba.

Day 12: Zhongba to Lhaze
Driving Distance: 495km
Accommodation: Hotel in Lhaze

  • Activities: Drive across the grand plateau to Lhaze.

Day 13: Lhaze to Dingri to Mt. Everest
Driving Distance: 240km
Accommodation: Hotel near Mt. Everest

  • Activities: Drive to Mt. Everest and prepare to visit its base camp.

Day 14: Mt. Everest to Dingri
Driving Distance: N/A
Accommodation: Hotel in Dingri

  • Activities: Spend the day visiting Mt. Everest, including walking to the base camp and taking photos.

Day 15: Dingri to Gyirong
Driving Distance: 340km
Accommodation: Hotel in Gyirong

  • Activities: Drive to Gyirong and prepare for border exit.

Day 16: Gyirong to Nepal
Driving Distance: 30km

  • Activities: Exit China at Gyirong border and enter Nepal.

Note:

  1. The itinerary may be tight for some guests. Adjustments can be made based on personal preferences.
  2. Customized tours are available upon request.
  3. If you join a group, the needs of all guests will be considered.
  4. Additional 4-day tours to Lhasa, Gyantse, and Shigatse can be arranged.