Munich-Tibet Overland Tour

Day 2: Munich – Ljublijana

From Munich, we traverse the eastern Alps and find ourselves in the small, beautiful capital of Slovenia. The old town, built right along the Sava River, exudes charm, making it a perfect place for a relaxed start to our journey. We enjoy a stroll through the old town and have dinner at the foot of Ljubljana Castle.

Distance: approx. 400 km, Slovenia

Day 4: Belgrad – Nis

A relaxed day awaits us! From Belgrade, we continue to Nis, where we can explore the old town.

Distance: approx. 240 km

Day 6: Koprivshtitsa – Central Balkan Mountains – Sozopol

Today, we explore the central Balkan Mountains, which gave the entire region its name. Rising over a thousand meters above Bulgaria, we have an incredible view of the vast landscape from the Beklemento Pass (1,520 m). Beautiful curves lead us back down as we continue our journey through the Bulgarian hinterland, heading east to the Black Sea and the town of Sozopol. The region around Sozopol originated from the Greek colony of Apollonia and is one of the oldest cities in Bulgaria, with a history spanning over 3,500 years. We spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach or exploring the peninsula of Sozopol.

Distance: approx. 410 km

Day 8: Istanbul

A day to explore Istanbul begins with a three-hour guided tour in the morning. We visit the modern metropolis on the Bosphorus and soak in the unique atmosphere of this remarkable city. Our itinerary includes the Hagia Sophia, the spectacular old town, and the bustling bazaar.

Day 10: Safranbolu – Amasya

Winding roads lead us to Amasya, a town nestled in the hinterland of the Black Sea coast within the Pontic Mountains, situated in a narrow valley right by the river. The main part of this charming city stretches along the east side of the river, while only a few rows of houses lie at the foot of the steep castle hill on the west side. Five bridges connect the two halves of the city, inviting visitors to linger and explore. In the rocks above the city, tomb chambers were built during the Hellenistic period, reminiscent of Greek architecture. These tombs can be visited today. In the evening, Amasya has a special charm as the old town is beautifully illuminated.

Distance: approx. 390 km

Day 12: Bayburt – Savsat

A beautiful winding mountain road takes us to Şavşat, located in the far east of Turkey near the Georgian border. Here, we stay overnight in the wooded hills, in bungalows that offer stunning views.

Distance: approx. 350 km

Day 14: Gori – Kazbegi

A short drive brings us to Kazbegi, a town located right at the Russian border in a stunning mountain landscape.

Optional: Drive and explore Tbilisi (self-guided), which lies along the way (total distance then: 250 km).

Distance: approx. 190 km

Day 16: Grozny – Astrakhan

We drive through the steppes of southern Russia. Astrakhan, located on the Volga River, features buildings from various eras, including the Renaissance, Classicism, and Orthodox influences. Notable landmarks include the Astrakhan Kremlin and the Trinity Church.

Distance: approx. 490 km

Day 18: Atyrau

A rest day for doing laundry and relaxing. It’s also a chance to take care of any other tasks a world traveler needs to handle. Near the hotel, you’ll find restaurants, currency exchange offices, supermarkets, and the riverbank, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Day 20: Beyneu – Elabad

After crossing the border into Uzbekistan, the road conditions deteriorate significantly, leading to a challenging rough track. We drive through the largest desert in Central Asia, getting close to the dried-up Aral Sea and having a view over the Aralkum Desert that has formed from it. We overnight in a simple motel, which, due to its location in the middle of the desert and its unique clientele, could be straight out of a Quentin Tarantino film. The deep red sunset that often lights up the desert is frequently spectacular.

Distance: approx. 380 km, Uzbekistan

Day 22: Khiva – Buchara

We traverse the Kyzylkum Desert to reach Bukhara, one of the oldest cities in Uzbekistan. Like Samarkand, it was a major trading and resting place on the ancient Silk Road. With over 140 architectural monuments, Bukhara is an impressive “museum city.”

During a stroll through the old town, we visit the mosques and madrasas of Bukhara. The historic center has been on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1993.

Distance: approx. 460 km

Day 24: Samarkand visiting day

Samarkand visit day.

We explore Registan Square and the adjacent madrasas, along with other notable attractions. There will be ample time to visit the night market and take care of any shopping or personal needs.

Day 26: Dushanbe – Kalaikum

The journey along the Pamir Highway begins, taking us over gravel tracks and asphalt. Nowadays, only about half of the route is gravel. From Dushanbe, there are two routes to Kalaikum: a northern route and a southern route (which is longer). Depending on which route is more passable seasonally, we will decide accordingly. Kalaikum, with a wild river flowing through its center, is one of the most attractive places in the Pamir Mountains.

Distance: approx. 270/380 km

Day 28: Khorog – Murghab

Murghab is located in the middle of the Pamir Plateau – a remote place and a border town, on one side leading to China and on the other to Kyrgyzstan. The final kilometers before reaching Murghab are quite demanding, as the track is not easy to navigate.

Distance: approx. 320 km

Day 30: Osh

Osh is one of the largest cities in the country, featuring an airport and a good tourist hotel. We will have a rest day in Osh.

Day 32: Toktokul – Song Kul

Today, we venture even deeper into the mountains to the idyllic and remote Song Kul Lake, where we will stay in traditional yurts by the lakeshore. Here, we will get to know and experience the land, people, nomads, and farmers up close. An unforgettable experience awaits us.

Distance: approx. 260 km

Day 34: Tash Rabat – border at Kashgar – Kashgar

Around midday we reach the Kyrgyz-Chinese border area. We pass an archaeological excavation site and from there drive along a lake to the 3,752 meter high Torugart Pass – the border between Kyrgyzstan and China. From Torugart Pass we drive down and enter China. The vehicles must be parked 120 km away from the Chinese customs station. We have a transfer to Kashgar in the afternoon and another transfer back to the customs station the next morning to collect our motorbikes there.

Distance: approx. 220 km, China

Day 36: Kashgar

Another day of rest and organization in Kashgar, which we also grant to the Chinese authorities. In China the formalities can sometimes take a little longer. We visit the beautiful old town of Kashgar and watch the market. The barbecue/grilled meat of lamb and beef in the numerous restaurants is among the best in all of China.

Day 38: Yecheng – Dahongliutian

Day 40: Ali – Mt. Kailash

Short day driving to Mount Kailash, sacred to Tibetans. In Tibetan mythology, the mountain is the center of the universe and the birthplace of Asia’s most powerful rivers. With a bit of luck we will see numerous pilgrims, often traveling from distant areas of Tibet. The mountain, 6,638 meters high, rises majestically over the Tibetan plateau with its snow-capped peak. There are numerous pilgrims here who come to Mount Kailash from all corners of Tibet, India and Nepal once in their life. Numerous scriptures suggest that every devout Buddhist should walk around this mountain at least once in their life on a three-day trek. However, if he wants to experience complete enlightenment, he has to do this 51 times.

Day 42: Saga – EBC (Everest Base Camp)

Today we go very close to the Nepalese border along Lake Peiku (4,591 meters high) and over some winding passes, almost 5,000 meters high. Today, stretches of road are in somewhat worse condition, at least up to Lake Paiku. From there we drive along an incredible road with hundreds of twists, turns and views of the numerous 8,000 meter high peaks, one of the many highlights on our tour. The road first takes us to Tingri and winds over two passes from which we have a perfect view of the world-famous and highest mountains on earth: Shisha Pangma (8,012m), Cho Oyu (8,201m), Lhotse (8,561m) Makalu (8,463m) and of course Everest (8,848m) offer unique and spectacular views.

Day 44: Xigaze – Gyangze – Lhasa

We travel across the wide central Tibetan plateau to Gyangze. The barren high plateau of Tibet has long since given way to vast wheat fields and small villages and farms. In Gyangze we visit the largest stupa (Tibetan pagoda) in all of Tibet, located in the Palcho Monastery, which is overlooked by the Gyangze Dzong, a majestic castle. From Gyangze we drive over the 5,100 meter high Karo La Pass, which lies directly below a mighty glacier. At 4,900 meters above sea level, we enjoy breathtaking views of the azure Yamdrok Lake and drive along winding roads along the Yarlung Tsangpo River. This may be the last time we see shaggy yaks. Over the last mountain pass we go into a fertile river valley and further into the legendary Lhasa. We have arrived at the destination of the trip – Lhasa. We drove from Munich along the Silk Road to here, on the roof of the world. If we haven’t patted ourselves or each other on the back yet, let’s do so now.

Distance: approx. 360 km

Day 46: Lhasa

Today we dedicate ourselves to the cultural side of Lhasa, the mystical capital of Tibet. Lhasa, literally translated as “place of the gods”, has some of the sights in store for us. In the morning we head to the iconic Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama. We visit the palace inside and out and get to know Tibet’s eventful history better. Then we stroll through the narrow streets of the Barkhor market. The vibrant market is a melting pot of Tibetan culture, where vendors sell goods and souvenirs – from traditional garments and jewelry to religious artifacts. The numerous pilgrims walk clockwise around the heart of the market – the Jokhang Temple. The Jokhang is the most important temple of Tibetan Buddhism, which we then visit.

Day 48: Chengdu

Individual departure from Chengdu.

Not ready for your adventure to end yet? Check out the optional Lhasa to Dali extension next!

Day 48: Nyingtri – Bome- Ranwu

Today, spectacular views are on the agenda. We drive over various mountain passes on the way to Lake Ranwu and enjoy the view of the fascinating green valleys and yak pastures, which the Chinese call the “Switzerland of the Orient”, because the barren landscapes of the Himalayan plateau give way to coniferous forests and make room for nomads and their yaks.

We spend the night on the beautiful shore of Lake Ranwu at an altitude of 3,850 meters near a small Tibetan village and enjoy the sunset on the lake, which is framed by often snow-capped 5,000 meter high mountains.

Distance: approx. 360 km

Day 50: Zogang – Deqin

Two more passes at 5,000 and 3,900 meters in altitude await us. The landscapes become more barren again and the Salween shows its gorges of yellow sandstone. Shortly afterwards we reach the upper reaches of the Mekong. There, an encounter with a real Tibetan family awaits you. We spend the night in our homestay with Hendrik’s Tibetan family, the ring-in-law cooks with locally grown vegetables and there is also the distilled liquor and red wine from their own production. Here you get an authentic impression of the life of the local Tibetans. Today is the last day of driving in the province of Tibet. In the early afternoon we are already in Yunnan.

Distance: approx. 410 km

Day 52: Shangri-La – Tiger Leaping Gorge – Lijiang

Today we drive through one of the deepest gorges in the world, the Tiger Leaping Gorge. Three-kilometer-high cliffs and the 5,500-meter-high mountain range of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain towering above them await us. Afterwards we visit the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town of Lijiang, where we spend the evening. Today we finally leave the world of the Tibetans and immerse ourselves in the area of ​​the Naxi.

Distance: approx. 150 km

Day 54: Dali – Chengdu

Dali departure day. End of the 1st extension.

Start of the optional extension to Bangkok.

Day of rest and individual visits to sights in Dali, such as the 1200 year old Three Pagodas, the cable car up into the Cangshan Mountains or a trip to Erhai Lake.

Day 56: Shuangjiang – Xishuangbanna

Today we enter the tropics and once again cross the Mekong River on its way from the Himalayas to Southeast Asia. Xishuangbanna is known for its tropical rainforests through which the Mekong River flows and its rich biodiversity. The region is home to the Dai (Thai) minority, whose traditional architecture, festivals such as the water-splashing festival and dances characterize the cultural heritage. The region is also known for its Buddhist temples and pagodas, which reflect the cultural and religious significance of Xishuangbanna.

Distance: approx. 340 km

Day 58: Pak Beng – Luang Prabang via Hongsa

Today’s journey takes us from Pak Beng to Luang Prabang via Hongsa, a route through picturesque landscapes and mountain villages. In Hongsa we experience the traditional life of a Laotian village. Luang Prabang awaits us with well-preserved architecture and cultural sights such as the many temples and the lively night market.

Distance: approx. 300 km

Day 60: Luang Prabang – Border to Vieng Xai

The next stage takes us from Luang Prabang to the border at Vieng Xai, a drive through quiet rural areas. We enjoy the breathtaking landscape of northern Laos.

Distance: approx. 410 km

Day 62: Mu Cang Chai – Sapa

Today, a short drive from Mu Cang Chai to Sapa takes us through stunning mountain landscapes and ethnic minority villages. Sapa is famous for its terraced rice fields and the culture of the Hmong and Dzao people. We explore the fascinating local culture and picturesque surroundings.

Distance: approx. 160 km

Day 64: Bac Ha – Quan Ba

From Bac Ha, the journey continues to Quan Ba ​​via Hoang Su Phi, a route through spectacular mountain scenery. Hoang Su Phi impresses with its beautiful, terraced rice fields, while Quan Ba, also known as “Heaven’s Gate,” offers breathtaking views.

Distance: approx. 200 km

Day 66: Meo Vac – Kolia Organic Farm

The drive from Meo Vac to Kolia Organic Farm over the Me Pia Pass offers us impressive views and is considered one of the most beautiful roads in Vietnam. At Kolia Organic Farm we gain insights into sustainable agriculture and local traditions.

Distance: approx. 160 km

Day 68: Rest day in Hanoi

A rest day in Hanoi gives us the opportunity to explore the city at our leisure. We visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hoan Kiem Lake, the old town and the numerous museums and temples. Hanoi impresses with its rich culture, history and lively gastronomy scene.

Day 70: Tan Ky – Phong Nha National Park

Today we drive from Tan Ky to Phong Nha National Park, one of the most impressive cave systems in the world. Phong Nha National Park is famous for the Phong Nha Cave and the Paradise Cave. We explore these fascinating natural wonders.

Distance: approx. 290 km

Day 72: Dong Ha – Hoi An

The journey from Dong Ha via Hue to Hoi An takes us through historically and culturally rich regions. Hue is known for its imperial citadel and royal tombs, while Hoi An impresses with its well-preserved historical buildings and charming ambience.

Distance: approx. 220 km

Day 74: Pleiku – Stung Treng (Cambodia)

The final leg takes us from Pleiku into Cambodia and on to Stung Treng. This route marks the entry into Cambodia and passes through remote areas rich in natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Distance: approx. 300 km, Cambodia

Day 76: Exploring Angkor Parks and Tonle Sap Lake

We spend the whole day exploring the impressive Angkor Park and Tonle Sap Lake. We visit the Angkor Wat Temple, the Ta Prohm Temple and the Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom. In the afternoon we explore the largest lake in Southeast Asia, Tonle Sap Lake.

Day 78: Bangkok Shipping

Today we take the vehicles to the shipping company in Bangkok. We use the day to ship them and reflect on the adventures we have experienced.