SELF-DRIVE ONE WAY YUNNAN – LHASA – EVEREST BASE CAMP

14 days 13 nights

Tibet: A land of mystery, often called the “Third Pole” of our planet, crowned by the Roof of the World—the majestic Himalayas and their eternal snow-capped peaks. Tibet has always been considered a paradise on earth, a sanctuary for the divine. It is a land of magnificent, surreal beauty—at once breathtaking, unforgiving, and holy. Often described as the realm suspended between reality and myth, it is a world steeped in spirituality and profound mystery.

Retracing the footsteps of ancient merchants on the legendary Ancient Tea Horse Road (and venturing even beyond), this journey takes us on a one-way self-driving expedition. Starting from Hanoi. Our expedition starts from Lijiang ancient city, from there, we embark on the route that was once Asia’s greatest artery for trade and cultural exchange. The Tea Horse Road stretches from Pu’er, winding over the Himalayan peaks to Tibet, crossing into Nepal, Bhutan, and India.

Prepare yourself to face the formidable challenges of the Himalayas, particularly on the segment now known as National Highway G318. Imagine a ribbon of asphalt winding over the giant peaks of the Himalayas, waiting for you to carve out the adventure of a lifetime! This route was once the longest and most grueling ancient trade route in the world, spanning over 10,000 km, where tea was bartered for horses and other precious goods:

• Renowned as one of the highest and most treacherous ancient roads in the world.
• Traversing diverse and extremely difficult terrain: from the tropical rainforests of Yunnan to Himalayan peaks over 5,000 meters, featuring sheer cliffs, raging rivers, and the vast steppes of Tibet.
• Harsh weather conditions—oxygen deprivation at high altitudes, blizzards, landslides, and freezing temperatures—were constant dangers.
• Wheeled transport was nearly impossible; transport relied mainly on pack horses, mules, yaks, and resilient porters capable of carrying hundreds of pounds of tea on their backs for months on end.
• Banditry was also a frequent threat.
• Very few merchants could complete the entire journey.

The Ancient Tea Horse Road is no longer exactly as it was, but amidst the majestic expanse of this journey, you will lose yourself in the peaceful beauty of ancient Tibetan villages and sacred monasteries nestled in the clouds. You will immerse yourself in the gentle rhythm of life, connecting deeply with the culture and customs of the local people.

There is no feeling greater than self-driving to explore, experience, and connect with diverse cultures—from Hanoi to Vietnam’s Northwest, through Northern Laos, to the Ancient Tea Horse Road. Spanning the majestic Himalayas, conquering the Roof of the World at Everest Base Camp, and discovering the most mysterious land on the planet.

BASIC INFORMATION:

• Start/End Point: Lijiang, Yunnan (China) / Lhasa, Tibet (China)
• Airports: Sanyi Airport, Lijiang (IATA: LJG, ICAO: ZPLJ) / Lhasa Gonggar Airport, Tibet (IATA: LXA, ICAO: ZULS)
• Duration: 14 Days, 13 Nights (or 9 Days, 8 Nights option)
• One-way Driving Distance: ~3,200 km (14 days) or ~1,900 km (9 days)
• Accommodation: 3-4 star standard hotels.
• Rest Days: 1 day in Lhasa (for the 14-day program).
• Driving Days: 11 days (14-day program) or 7 days (9-day program).
• Vehicle Shipping:
  • Pre-tour: From Kunming/Chengdu to Lijiang.
  • Post-tour: From Lhasa back to Kunming/Chengdu.

(Meal abbreviations: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)Explore Lhasa for several days on your own

1. LIJIANG ARRIVAL – Gateway to Legends (2,007m)

Upon arrival at Sanyi International Airport, the MotoTours Asia vehicle and guide will welcome the group and transfer everyone to the center of Lijiang Old Town. You will set foot in Lijiang (elevation 2,007m), a UNESCO World Heritage site where time seems to stand still on cobblestone streets polished by the hooves of packhorses. Once a vital transit hub on the Ancient Tea Horse Road,

Lijiang is where we begin to feel the vibrant intersection of Sichuan, Yunnan, and Tibetan cultures. We will wander into the world of the Naxi people, characterized by their mysterious Dongba hieroglyphs and traditional wooden houses with gray-blue tiled roofs. The group will stroll around the old town, imagining the bustling caravans of the past and preparing mentally for the thousands-of-miles journey ahead.

You can also see Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a sacred peak resembling a giant dragon flying through the clouds, located 15km north of the town.

2. LIJIANG – BALAZHEN, 280km ~5h (3.000m) – Fairytale World and Naxi Legends

The adventure begins, drive toward Shangri-La for a lunch stop and short trip to explore the land in the “Lost Horizon” before driving an additional 70km to Balazhen. We head to Balagezong, a hidden Tibetan paradise known as a “miniature Shangri-La” nestled deep within the Hengduan Mountains. This area features the sacred Gezong Snow Mountain (5,545m), the deep Shangri-La Grand Canyon, and the turquoise Gangqu River. At the center lies the ancient Bala Village on the mountainside at 2,900m, home to Tibetans living in traditional wooden houses.

This village has a legendary story about the villagers’ determination to carve a road out of vertical cliffs—a feat that left scientists in awe—connecting their isolated home to the outside world. The area retains its pristine culture and offers a magnificent ecological landscape with a vertical climate that creates a “four seasons in one day” experience.

3. BALAZHEN – YANJING, 250km ~4h (2.600m) – Entering Tibet, Tea Horse Road & Ancient Salt Wells

Leaving Balazhen, we drive past the bend of the Jinsha River and admire the beautiful scenery of Meili Snow Mountain before following the Lancang River to Yanjing. This marks our entry into Tibet; we will complete immigration procedures at the military checkpoint right at the entrance of Yanjing village.

Yanjing is a Naxi village in Mangkam County, Tibet, historically a major route for tea transport into the region. The town is famous for its ancient salt wells with a history of about 1,300 years, where we will learn about the unique salt production process that brought wealth to this land. We will also visit a village known for grape growing and winemaking, a tradition dating back to 1865 when French missionaries arrived and taught the locals these skills.

4: YANJING – RUMEI, 160km (2.700m) – Conquering Majestic Passes

Traveling along the Lancang River, we will be overwhelmed by the towering vertical cliffs lining both banks. The real challenge begins as the vehicles climb to the summit of Honglashan Pass (4,448m), opening up vast views into deep valleys. Descending into Markam, the landscape shifts to immense steppes where Tibetan culture blends with the free spirit of Mongolian nomads. Markam is a crucial junction where two branches of the Tea Horse Road (from Sichuan and Yunnan) meet. In the afternoon, we officially roll onto the legendary National Highway G318, conquering the Lawushan Pass (4,338m) before stopping for the night in the peaceful town of Rumei.

5. RUMEI – BAXOI, 300km ~5h, (3.260m) – The G318 Challenge

We continue on the legendary G318, the longest and most majestic road in China, where every curve reveals a new story and dramatic mountain landscapes. Prepare for thrilling challenges on high peaks, including a breathtaking view of the Lancang River (upper Mekong) from the Zhuka Bridge. Today’s itinerary features the highest number of mountain passes, including Jueba (3,930m), Dongda (5,008m), and notably the Yelashan Pass (4,658m). This segment is famous for the “99 bends” followed by “72 switchbacks” descending to the Nu River before we reach Baxoi.

6. BAXOI – BOME, 370km ~6h, (2.725m) – Paradise of the Himalayas

After conquering the Anjiula Pass (4,325m), we stop by the stunning Ranwu Lake at 3,960m. This lake is steeped in mysterious legends, ranging from a fight to the death between a water buffalo and a bull that turned into mountains, to a story of monkeys getting drunk and killing each other to form the lake. From here, the scenery magically transforms from snowy alpine terrain to lush tropical vegetation, featuring dense old-growth forests and sparkling glaciers, earning it the nickname “Switzerland of Tibet”. We arrive in Bome, a “hidden land” mentioned in ancient prophecies and considered the birthplace of the first King of Tibet.

7. BOME – NYING CHI, 230km (3.040m) The Place That Makes You Forget Home

The journey takes us deep into Lulang, a name meaning “place that makes you forget your home” in Tibetan, where the peaceful beauty of alpine meadows and ancient cypress forests truly captivates visitors. Here, we will admire the giant King Cypress tree, estimated to be over 2,500 years old—predating the time of the Buddha—and associated with the founder of the Bon religion. The road to Nyingchi is as beautiful as an ink wash painting, with white clouds swirling around snow-capped peaks and gently winding rivers, offering a fantastic experience for drivers.

8. NYINGCHI – LHASA, 400km ~6h, (3.656m) – Conquering Milashan Pass & Arrival in the Holy Capital.

This is the highly anticipated journey to Lhasa, the holy capital of Tibet; reaching here marks the end of a long and challenging road, once the terminus for tea caravans. Today we drive on the G318 highway through spectacular scenery to conquer Milashan Pass (5,250m), the highest point of the entire journey. At this summit, linked to the legend of the Buddhist saint Milarepa, you will breathe in the thin plateau air and gaze upon the vast, magnificent Himalayas. Descending from the pass, we witness the dramatic transition from the greenery of Nyingchi to the expansive Lhasa plateau.

9. LHASA DEPARTURE (Finish Option 1: 9 days)

After breakfast at the hotel, our car will transfer you to the airport for departure. Recommend to do on your own:

• Explore Lhasa for several days on your own
• Take the World highest Express Train from Lhasa to Beijing
• Or Take the World highest Express Train from Lhasa to Chengdu
• And or fly home

FULL EXPEDITION 14 DAYS CONTINUE:

9. LHASA, (3.656m) – Exploring the Holy Capital (Elev. 3,656m)

This is a free day to completely immerse yourself in the sacred atmosphere and rich culture of Lhasa, the political and religious center of Tibet. You can choose to visit iconic landmarks such as the majestic Potala Palace—the eternal symbol of Tibetan Buddhism—or the sacred Jokhang Temple, which houses the 12-year-old Shakyamuni Buddha statue and is believed to pin down a sleeping dragon. Alternatively, simply stroll along the bustling Barkhor Street to feel the unique rhythm of life here. This is also an opportunity to learn about the importance of butter tea in Tibetan life and rest to recharge for the next leg of the adventure.

This is a free day to completely immerse in the sacred atmosphere and rich culture of Lhasa, the political and religious center of Tibet. You can choose to visit iconic landmarks such as the majestic Potala Palace—the eternal symbol of Tibetan Buddhism—or the sacred Jokhang Temple, which houses the 12-year-old Shakyamuni Buddha statue and is believed to pin down a sleeping dragon. Alternatively, simply stroll along the bustling Barkhor Street to feel the unique rhythm of life here. This is also an opportunity to learn about the importance of butter tea in Tibetan life and rest to recharge for the next leg of the adventure.

10. LHASA – LHATSE, 180km, 410km, ~6h, (4,035m) – The Legendary Yarlung River

The journey continues, winding along the majestic Yarlung Tsangpo River (flowing at an average altitude of 4,000m) towards Shigatse on 250km of highway. While waiting for permits to enter the Everest Base Camp area, the group will stop for lunch before tackling the busiest section of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau road in the afternoon. We will conquer the Younongla Pass (4,534m) and admire the endless beauty of the Himalayas. We arrive in Lhatse, an ancient land home to the Lhatse Monastery founded in 1668, situated where the mountains resemble two converging elephants.

11. LHATSE – EVEREST BASE CAMP – OLD TINGRI, 180km ~3h + 100km eco bus (4.348m) – Touching the Roof of the World

We wake up early, full of energy, ready for an emotional day where the dream of seeing Mount Everest—the “Roof of the World”—comes true. The route takes us over two challenging passes: Jiacuola (5,252m) and Jiawula (5,208m), the latter featuring 108 switchbacks leading to a Tibetan village.

We will park our vehicles and transfer to an electric bus to reach Everest Base Camp at 5,200m. Under a clear blue sky, we will witness the overwhelming, majestic beauty of the planet’s highest peak—a symbol of human adventure and resilience.

12. OLD TINGRI – DINGGYE – GYANTSE, 400km ~5h, (3.977m) – Exploring the Wilderness

Today, we follow a new route almost untouched by tourists to explore the unique, pristine lands of Tibet, passing through Dinggye before reaching Gyantse. MotoTours Asia leverages its unparalleled experience to pioneer this path instead of returning via the standard G318. Drivers must be highly focused for a 15km stretch of gravel road along the lake. Upon arriving in Gyantse, we will have time to explore this charming small town and visit the 15th-century Palcho (Baiju) Monastery, a unique spiritual site where the Sakya, Kadam, and Gelug schools of Tibetan Buddhism coexist.

13. GYANTSE – LHASA, 260km ~4h, (3.656m) – Sacred Lake & The Final Passes.

On this leg, we will admire the majestic and mysterious beauty of Yamdrok Lake (Yamdrok-tso), one of Tibet’s three most sacred lakes, featuring crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains. To reach the lake, we must conquer Simila (4,352m) and Karuola (5,039m), the final two passes of the journey. Along the way, we will view the sacred Nyenchen Khangsar mountain (7,782m) and the mystical Karola Glacier. The day concludes with a “happy ending” of overwhelming scenery as we return to Lhasa, return the vehicles, and gather for a farewell party to celebrate the memories made on the Roof of the World.

14. LHASA DEPARTURE After breakfast at the hotel, the vehicle will transfer you to the airport, officially concluding the journey. 

 I. TOUR PRICES: in USD per person.

I.1. OPTION 1: LIJIANG – LHASA, 9 DAYS

I.1. OPTION 2: FULL EXPEDITION, 14 DAYS

II. WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE?

• Vehicle Rental & One way Transport:

– One way vehicle rental as you choose from the price table

– Round-trip shipping of vehicles: From Kunming/Chengdu to the tour starting point and from Lhasa back to the depot in Kunming/Chengdu.

• Driving License Services:

VIP service for processing temporary Chinese driving licenses (guests do not need to be present; we handle everything).

• Tour Guides & Leaders:

– 01 Tibetan Tour Guide (accompanying the group from Lhasa to Lijiang).

– 01 International Tour Leader through the trip.

• Permits:

– Tibet Travel Permit and all necessary route permits for the itinerary.

• Accommodation:

– 3-4 star standard hotels (based on double occupancy).

– Note: For hotels at altitudes above 3,300m, an in-room oxygen supply system is included.

• Meals:

– All meals as specified in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).

– Excludes the farewell dinner on the final evening.

• Support Equipment & Logistics:

– Oxygen tanks for emergency use.

– High-altitude sickness medication/supplements.

– Icom radio communication system equipped for all vehicles.

• Connectivity:

– e-SIM or Physical SIM card with 5G data (Firewall unblocked) for use in China.

• Insurance:

– Vehicle insurance: Includes hull insurance and third-party liability.

– Travel insurance within China: Coverage up to 1,000,000 CNY (approx. $138,000 USD).

– International Travel Insurance (Diamond Package): Coverage up to 8,000,000,000 VND (approx. $307,692 USD).

III. WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE?

• Sightseeing Tickets:

Approximately $77 USD (~2,000,000 VND), depending on the actual number of spots visited.

• Fuel:

– Cars: Approximately $308 – $346 USD (~8-9 million VND) per car for the 14-day journey.

– Motorbikes: Approximately $154 – $192 USD (~4-5 million VND) per bike.

• Highway Tolls:

Paid based on actual usage (or settled with the rental agency upon vehicle return). The itinerary only includes about 400km of highway driving.

• Farewell Party:

Held in Lhasa (organized and paid for by guests to thank the guide team).

• Tips for the Guide Team:

– $100 USD/guest for the full 14-day journey.

– $70 USD/guest for the 9-day option.

• Chinese Tourist Visa:

– We can provide “Invitation letter” and “Tour confirmation” to support you for the visa

• Other Expenses: Any items not listed in Section II.

IV. REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION PROFILE

• Passport:

– Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the tour end date.

– Must include Place of Birth information.

• Driving License:

A valid license corresponding to the registered vehicle type issued by your home government.

• Portrait Photo:

– A 4×6 digital file.

– White background.

– No glasses.

– Forehead and ears must be clearly visible.