11-Day Motorcycle Riding Itinerary on the Sichuan-Tibet Central Route – the Ultimate Off-Road Journey (Chengdu to Lhasa)

What is the Sichuan-Tibet central route?

The Sichuan-Tibet Central Route is a unique pathway situated between the Sichuan-Tibet Southern Route (Highway 318) and the Sichuan-Tibet Northern Route (Highway 317). Unlike a conventional highway, it isn’t a continuous road but rather a connection of local and county roads. In some areas, there’s no clear path, requiring detours to proceed. This route spans approximately 2,690 kilometers, crossing through Sichuan and Tibet provinces, offering breathtaking natural scenery and rich historical culture. It’s often described as “a genuine and unique journey for the soul.”

The Sichuan-Tibet Central Route (marked by green lines on maps)

The Sichuan-Tibet Central Route presents a variety of challenging terrains, including dirt roads, gravel paths, and difficult off-road sections. However, it is precisely these challenges and difficulties that make the route so captivating and mysterious.

Detailed Itinerary for the 11-Day Sichuan-Tibet Central Route

Day 1: Chengdu to Danba (311 km)

• Visit the 5.12 Earthquake Memorial
• Panda Avenue
• Four Sisters Mountain (altitude 6,250m)
• Dawa Bridge

Day 2: Danba to Dangling to Daofu (175 km)

• Explore the hidden paradise of Dangling
• the Yuke Grassland

Day 3: Daofu to Cuoka Lake to Xinlong (183 km)

• Discover traditional Daofu residences
• the Xianshui River Gorge
• Cuoka Lake

Day 4: Xinlong to Yarchen Gar to Baiyu (260 km)

• Pilgrimage to Yarchen Gar
• a Nyingma school monastery
• travel along the Ganbai Road

Day 5: Rest Day in Baiyu (100 km)

• Explore the land of Bailang Kingdom
• learn about the handicrafts of the Khampa Tibetan people
• visit the renowned Kathok Monastery, one of the six major Nyingma monasteries

Day 6: Baiyu to Gongjue (145 km)

• An expert-level crossing route through the Jinsha River Gorge with stunning views at various altitudes

Day 7: Gongjue to Luolong (386 km)

• Cross the Lancang River
• Nujiang River
• Jiayu Bridge
• Mount Bexoi Xianv

Day 8: Luolong to Yangxiu (313 km)

• Visit the Three-Color Lake
• Gadera Pass

Day 9: Sacred Mount Sapuk (100 km)

• Unveil the glacial secrets of the Bon religion’s sacred mountain
• Mount Sapuk
• explore Sapuk Lake

Day 10: Yangxiu to Maidika Wetlands to Nagqu (376 km)

• See the Damong Monastery’s Skull Wall
• the source of the Lhasa River at Pengcuo
• the Maidika Wetlands

Day 11: Nagqu to Namtso to Lhasa (450 km)

• Travel along the Qinghai-Tibet Highway
• visit Namtso Lake, Yangbajain Hot Springs
• end the journey at the Potala Palace in Lhasa

Main Attractions During the Cycling Journey

Dangling Hidden Paradise

Dangling is a breathtaking natural sanctuary that combines snow-capped mountains, dense forests, alpine lakes, hot springs, and lush meadows. Its majestic peaks, scattered high-altitude lakes, verdant primal forests, gently flowing streams, carpet-like meadows, rare flora and fauna, and distinctive Tibetan villages create a captivating and picturesque landscape.

Yarchen Gar Monastery

Yarchen Gar is a sacred site for the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. Unlike the mountainside location of the famed Larung Gar, Yarchen Gar is built alongside the flowing Changqu River, giving it the appearance of being cradled by water. This unique setting has earned it the nickname “The Waterborne Buddha Kingdom.”

Sacred Mount Sapuk

Hidden within the Puzong Valley of Yangxiu Township in Biru County, Mount Sapuk is one of the Bon religion’s sacred mountains in Tibetan Buddhism, revered as the king of sacred mountains in the region. The mountain’s towering presence exudes a mysterious and majestic aura. The mirror-like lake reflects the mountain’s outline, offering a serene and profound view, while the glacier gleams with silver light under the sun, resembling a natural treasure.

Maidika Wetlands

In Tibetan, “Maidika” means “The Land of Horse Hoof Prints.” This area is a stunning high-altitude wetland where lakes and mountains intertwine, creating a unique ecosystem that nourishes a rich diversity of wildlife. Every inch of this land pulses with the vibrant energy of life.

Inclusions

• Accommodation Booking
• 11 nights in local high-standard hotels, with standard double rooms (two people per room, you may choose your roommate or be assigned by the guide; single rooms require an additional fee).
• Meal Arrangements
• A mix of regular meals and local specialty dishes along the route.
• Ticket Booking
• Entrance fees are not included in the itinerary cost.
• Support Services
• The deluxe group includes a support vehicle with beverage and snack supplies. The luxury group does not include a support vehicle but carries essential emergency items.

Exclusions

• Personal Expenses
• All drinks, entertainment, and other personal expenses during the trip.
• Vehicle Expenses
• Fuel, tolls, and other expenses for personal or rented vehicles.
• Additional Costs
• Extra entrance fees and other services not included in the main itinerary.
• Vehicle Transport Fees
• Shipping and packing fees for picking up or returning vehicles in different locations.
• Optional Services
• Any additional optional services during the trip.
• (Note: All costs are subject to the terms and conditions of the contract.)