5-Day Motorcycle Riding Itinerary on the Baokang and Shijiu Routes – Hidden Realm Expedition

Route Theme

When it comes to hidden realm expeditions, the excitement is palpable. Indeed, if you want to explore these secret routes, you need to act fast! With China’s rapid development and the incredible pace of infrastructure projects reaching even the most remote villages, what is now a hidden trail could soon become a paved road. So, these secret routes might be a “once in a lifetime” experience—literally!

The Baokang Route, often dubbed the “Western Sichuan version of the Duku Highway,” is renowned for its steep terrain and stunning scenery. Though it’s less than 200 kilometers long, it encompasses almost every type of highland terrain. The road winds through the mountains, with the elevation rising from just over 600 meters to more than 4,000 meters. Along the way, you’ll experience all four seasons in a single day, taking in rivers, snow-capped peaks, pristine forests, alpine pastures, and seas of wildflowers. It’s the ultimate off-road adventure, but be prepared—the road conditions are challenging, with frequent landslides. The best time for motorbike crossings is from April to September.

The allure of the Baokang Route also lies in its varying paths. Depending on the passes and road conditions, you can head towards Kangding, Danba, or Xiaojin, each offering different road conditions and unique scenery—making the journey full of surprises.

As for the Shijiu Route, while it might be lesser-known, it’s quite popular in off-road circles! This route is essentially a herders’ trail that runs from Shimian County to Jiulong County, spanning 130 kilometers, with about 80 kilometers of pure off-road terrain. The road is rugged and notorious for being a vehicle-wrecker, providing a thrilling challenge. The route ascends from 2,000 meters to 4,500 meters, crossing diverse landscapes such as gorges, rivers, forests, and meadows. Located on the edge of the Gongga Mountain National Nature Reserve, the scenery changes dramatically as you traverse the route. On the Shimian side, you’ll find lush, towering trees, while after crossing the 4,800-meter Stone Mountain Pass into Jiulong, you’ll be greeted by a stark landscape of jagged rocks and towering cliffs.

Detailed 5-Day Cycling Itinerary for the Baokang and Shijiu Routes

Day 1: Chengdu to Niba Mountain to Hanyuan (260 km)

• Enjoy the scenic views of Niba Mountain
• Daxiangling Range
• visit Hanyuan Lake

Day 2: Hanyuan to Shijiu Route to Jiulong (290 km)

• Explore the Shijiu Route with its snow-capped mountains
• alpine lakes
• pristine forests, experiencing the region’s rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems.

Day 3: Jiulong to Xinduqiao to Tagong to Danba (307 km)

• Visit Xinduqiao
• Tagong Grassland
• Yala Snow Mountain

Day 4: Danba to Baokang Route to Baoxing (200 km)

• Traverse the Baokang Route
• Take in views of snow-capped mountains
• alpine lakes
• pastoral meadows

Day 5: Baoxing to Chengdu (160 km)  

• Discover the hidden valley landscapes of the Qionglai Mountains

Main Attractions During the Cycling Journey

Inclusions

• Accommodation Booking  
• 4 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.)