Go East Young Man
An Unforgettable Motorcycle Tour Through Eastern Tibet
The “Go East Young Man” motorcycle tour was one of the most impressive journeys one can experience on a motorcycle. Fourteen riders, most of them between 50 and 60 years old, participated in this trip. This tour through the eastern Himalayas, up to Everest Base Camp and Lhasa, offered a combination of spectacular views and profound cultural experiences. The well-developed roads allowed for longer daily stages, while the majestic mountains and the spiritual atmosphere of Tibet deeply moved us.
Day 1 & 2: Chengdu and Shangri-La
Our journey began with our arrival at Chengdu Airport, followed by a connecting flight to Shangri-La. There, we enjoyed a late-night snack at the hotel, where we got to know each other in a relaxed setting and absorbed our first impressions of this fascinating region.
On the second day, we explored the vibrant old town of Shangri-La, located at an altitude of 3,300 meters. The vast grasslands and lush seas of flowers created an almost surreal atmosphere. The scent of Tibetan food accompanied us through the evening as we acclimatized.
Day 3 & 4: Heading to Kawa Karpo
The third day took us approximately 210 km through the stunning gorges of the Yangtze River to our Tibetan homestay at the foot of Kawa Karpo. Here, we experienced Tibetan hospitality up close and enjoyed a traditional dinner while soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
The next day, after covering about 240 km, we reached Kawa Karpo, the highest peak in the eastern Himalayas at 6,770 meters. The sight of the majestic mountain bathed in morning light was simply breathtaking. Our route continued through the border region into Tibet province, passing the wild banks and gorges of the Mekong River.
Day 5: Over the Dongda Pass
The approximately 160 km route on the fifth day took us over the Dongda Pass, one of the highest passes of our tour at 5,130 meters. The spectacular panoramic views and the challenges of the winding roads made every adventurer’s heart race.
Day 6 & 7: Winding Roads at Ranwu Lake and Riding Through the “Switzerland of the East”
On the sixth day, we tackled the Snake Pass with its 72 curves—a true highlight of the tour. We rode along the impressive Salween River and eventually reached the picturesque Ranwu Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. After covering about 290 km, we rested for the night at nearly 4,000 meters, with a breathtaking view of the lake.
The seventh day led us through dense pine forests and grassy mountain slopes, earning the region the nickname “Switzerland of the East.” The serene silence of the wide mountain roads accompanied us on our 360 km ride to Linzhi.
Day 8 to 10: To the Cradle of Tibetan Culture and the World’s Highest Mountains
The following days were rich in culture, culminating in the highlight of the tour: Everest Base Camp, located at an altitude of 5,200 meters. Each day we covered 300 to 400 km, visited monasteries and ancient fortresses, crossed the Gyatso-La Pass, and enjoyed spectacular views of the highest mountains in the world. We spent the night at Rongbuk Monastery after conquering the famous Qomolangma Highway and its 108 curves.
Day 11 & 12: From the Mongolian Monastery Sakya to Gyangze
On the eleventh day, we visited the Sakya Monastery, which was once the center of Buddhist scholarship in Tibet. The route took us through remote mountain roads and over two passes, each over 5,000 meters high. The next day, we followed the Friendship Highway to Gyangze, where we visited the Pelkhor Monastery and its impressive stupa, often described as the largest in Tibet, housing countless treasures in its 108 chapels.
Day 13: Stunning Yamdrok Lake
On the thirteenth day, we rode over the Karo La Pass to the azure Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s holiest lakes. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and fed by numerous small rivers, the lake provided a stunning backdrop. The daily stage covered approximately 260 km.
Day 14 & 15: Lhasa’s Cultural Treasures and Farewell
The penultimate day was dedicated to Lhasa’s cultural treasures. We visited the iconic Potala Palace, the Jokhang Temple, and the lively Barkhor Market. To conclude the day, we explored the Sera Monastery before spending one last evening all together reminiscing and having fun in one of the bars in town! On the final day, we flew back to Chengdu and began our journey home, carrying unforgettable memories of Tibet’s stunning landscapes and profound culture.
This journey remains unforgettable, showing that such adventures are not only about reaching a destination but about savouring every single minute on the road. If you have the chance, don’t miss out on this tour—it’s an experience that creates lasting impressions and unforgettable moments.