Tibet Roof Of The World

A sacred land of myths and mysteries inhabited by the ever smiling people, has not only exerted a magnetic pull upon travelers for centuries but also spies, missionaries, scholars, geographers, mystics, soldiers and cranks, etc. Yet, only a few intrepid, serious and determined have been able to make it.

Day 1-Kathmandu (1370m)

Upon arrivalmet by the representative and transferred to the hotel. Rest of the day is free to relax. Eve: A brief introduction of the trip followed by a welcome dinner. Passports will be collected for TIBET visa processing which takes 2 working days. After the dinner, transfer to the Hotel. Overnight at the Hotel

The road to success and the road to failure are almost exactly the same

Day 2-Sightseeing Tour Of Kathmandu (Visa Processing Day 01)

09:00 Hrs: After breakfast met by guide and board the vehicle for half day’s sightseeing tour of BoudhanathStupa and Pashupatinath Temple. The BoudhanathStupa is located 6 kilometers Northeast of Kathmandu and is a colossal imposing Stupa standing about 36 meters and is one of the oldest Buddhist monuments ever built in Nepal. The Stupa stands on the massive three level Mandala style platforms surrounded by colorful family style houses. The Stupa is said to have been built in the 5th Century and is a sight of great veneration to the Buddhist. Continue on to Pashupanath Temple – the most sacred of the Hindu Temples in the world and is amongst the five principle pilgrimage sites for the Hindus. On an annual pilgrimage during Shivaratri Festival, thousands of devotees of Lord Shiva from all the Hindu communities of the world, pay their homage here. Pashupatinath is the reincarnation of Shiva in his most benevolent form as the shepherd of fertility and so there are no animal sacrifices in this temple. Only fruits, flowers and vermilion are offered. It lies on the banks of the Bagmati river and for the Hindus, to be cremated at Pashupatinath, means a direct passage to heaven. After the visit, return to the Hotel. Overnight at the hotel

Day 3-Ride Kathmandu / Banepa / Dhulikhel / Namobuddha / Kathmandu (87kms)(Visa Processing Day 02)

Negotiate traffic out of the Kathmandu city to the Ringroad cross section – Koteshwor. From here, follow the newly constructed highway to Bhaktapur (Approx. 12 Km from Kathmandu). The ancient Bhaktapur City or the “City of Devotees” situated at an altitude of 1,401 m, 12 kilometers east of Kathmandu. Bhaktapur covers an area of 4 square miles and is shaped like a conch shell. Pottery and weavings are its traditional industries. Continue cruising past Bhaktapur to Banepa (Approx. 10 Km from Bhaktapur) via Jagati&Sanga passing road side settlements and terraced farmlands. From here the road bifurcates east to Namobuddha via Dhulikhel, North to Nala and south to Panauti. Head east and continue ride for Approx. 30 km toNamobuddha. Here we stop for the sightseeing tour. Namo Buddha is situated at an elevation of 1750m. It is very important Buddhist Pilgrimage which lies about 38 kilometers east of Kathmandu. The stupa& shrines built in this lovely little hill mark is a very ancient holy site. Namo Buddha is the historically important place where a prince sacrificed himself for the sake of a sick and hungry tigress and her cubs. One can still find an old historical stone slab depicting the whole story of Namo Buddha. This is an important Buddhist shrine attracting many pilgrims. A trail from this site climbs up for about five minutes to the other site of the hill where there are several more stupas which is considered as a retreat center for Buddhist monks. An ancient carved stone reflecting the legend of Namo Buddha is still there which highlights the historical momentous of Buddha who was moved by compassion at the pitable sight of a tigress and her cubs that he offered his own body as food. Later continue ride to Dhulikhel (Approx 15 Km) Dhulikhel, situated at an elevation of 1550 meters with panoramic view of the Himalayas is a small Newari town and is famous for its scenic beauty and old tradition. It offers magnificent views of the Himalayas from Mt, Karyolung in the east to Mt. Himalchuli to the west the twin crest of Mt. Langtang in the west to the Mt. Everest in the east can be clearly viewed in a clear day. Dhulikhel is ideal for snow-capped peaks, sunrise, sunset and it is different from any other and is one of the best sites to watch the sunrise over the Himalayas. From here the road bifurcates; east to Kodari and west to Kathmandu. Continue ride towards Kathmandu via Banepa, Sanga&Bhaktapur (approx. 30 Km). Overnight at the hotel

Emotional discomfort, when accepted, rises, crests and falls in a series of waves.

Day 4 -Ride Kathmandu To Daman(2450m/65kms/3hrs)Visa Processing Day 03

After breakfast met by the road captain and the rest of the team at the hotel lobby and later ride to Daman. We negotiate the traffic out of the Kathmandu city and ride out of the valley at the cross section of the ring road at Kalanki and then set out for check post at Nagdhunga, just past Thankot. From here, the road twists and turns as we negotiate the traffic and descend to Naubise, 26 kilometer marker (about 17 kilometers from Nagdhunga). Upon arrival at Naubise we stop for a while at a local tea shop for tea. After tea we start our ride to Daman. From Naubise Daman is only 29 kilometers all uphill with sharp bends. Daman situated at an altitude of 2,500 meter (8, 00 ft) Daman is the perfect destination for all seasons to undertake outdoor activities like rock climbing, Para gliding, hang gliding or even just for acclimatization before a hectic trek or mountaineering, Pony trekking, Mountain biking, Fishing etc. One can also view the mountain panorama including Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest –8848m), the highest peak in the world. Upon arrival at Daman check in to the resort and rest of the evening is free to relax and explore around the resort. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Day 5-RideDaman To Syabrubesi (2135m/133kms/6hrs)

After breakfast descend retracing to the main highway at Naubise and then head west all the way to Galchi. Head north following the Trishuli River for a while and then slowly ascend through terraced agricultural lands and small road side villages. At the outskirts of Pokhara, we are greeted with views of the Annapurna Mountain range including the famous Fish Tail Mountain. From here it is a steep winding descent till Trishuli but the scenery is fantastic. Deep forested areas, with clear flowing streams and waterfalls provide visitors of what Nepal is all about. Trishuli – The beauty of the area is not easily forgotten. The rolling hills, the trishuli river, ethnic villages, suspension bridges all make it a very interesting ride. Here we stop for the lunch. After lunch head north and continue ride to Dhunche. From here steep descend on a winding and snaky trail till Syabrubesi. Upon arrival at Syabrubesi check in to the lodge. Rest of the day is free to relax or explore around the village. Overnight at the Lodge

Day 6-Ride Syabrubesi To Kyirong Town (2700m/44kms/3hrs)

After breakfast ride approx. 20 Km to Kyirong – Nepal / Tibet border, the last border town, complete Nepali Immigration formalities and cross the friendship bridge. Complete Chinese Immigration and met by guide and driver from Tibet. Proceed for China Custom clearance for the motorcycles and after completion, load up the gear on the waiting Landcruiser / Mini Truck and ride for another 24 kilometer to Kyirong town. Kyirong, one of the frontier counties of Tibet Autonomous Region, lies in the southwest of Tibet and the southwest of Xigaze prefecture, covering 9,126 square kilometers with a population of 10 thousand. kyirong means in Tibetan happy village. kyirong Town is one of the important towns in Kyirong County, with a sea level of 2,700 meters. Pagba Monastery, Chagar Monastery and Qiangzhen Monastery are main monasteries of Kyirong and kyirongJiangcun Nature Reserve is the famous beauty spot. Up to 1960 one of the main trade routes between Nepal and Tibet passed through this region. Easily accessible from Nepal, it was used several times as an entrance gate for military actions from the site of Nepal against Tibet. Upon arrival check in to the Hotel. Rest of the day is free to relax or explore around the town to acclimatize. Overnight at the Hotel

Day 7-Ride To Kyirong Town To Saga (4640m/170kms/5hrs)

After breakfast, ride through the beautiful Tibetan landscape. We enter a valley and the climb to a pass and then again descend into another valley one after another and each one more scenic than the next. Finally after about 3 ½ hours, we get a glimpse of the mighty Brahmaputra river or locally known as “Tsang Po” and ride along its banks for a while and take the bridge (newly constructed. In the earlier years, all passengers and vehicles had to be ferried across) to arrive at the hustle and bustle of the Saga town. Upon arrival check in the guest house. Rest of the day is free to relax or explore around the town. Overnight at the Hotel

Day 8-Ride Saga To Shakya (4300m/323kms/8hrs)

Start the scenic ridefrom Saga to Sakyacrossing over 5 passes,Heading to Sakya from an elevation of 4600 meters, the trail wends towards the South route. Now, the trail follows a route that brushes past Brahmaputra River. Further ahead, a river valley sprawls over and then traditional picturesque villages come into picture and Namring being one of the biggest. This scenically rewarding ride provides plenty of opportunities for photography. On this long day’s ride over the sandy and rocky landscape of Tibet, other sites like lake, nomads chasing hundreds of yaks and sheep, keep you busy. Upon arrival at Lhatse continue further 26 km to Shakya. Upon arrival at Shakya check in to the Hotel. Overnight at the Hotel

Day 9-Ride Shakya ToGyantse (3950m/250kms/6hrs)

After breakfast visit Sakya Monastery, the centre of the Sakya order of Tibetan Buddhism, was founded in 1073 by KonchokGyalpo and during the rule of Sakyapas, the priest patron relationship between Tibet and China was established. Sakyapa rulers reigned over Tibet for nearly a hundred years from 13-14th century. Many of its priceless images, fresco statues, Holy Scriptures remaining today date back to the time of its founding. Later head off for 115 kilometers flat stretch to Shigatse. The route today is scenic with only a small pass of 4300 m. Upon arrival on the outskirts of the Shigatse City, we stop for lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, continue on to Gyantse. The 90 kilometer journey seems like hours because of the 40 kmph speed limit imposed by the traffic police. There are regular check posts as well as Patrol cars to strictly implement the rule. Gyantse is a pastoral town and still retains the charm of a traditional Tibetan town untouched by modern expansion. It made world headlines in 1904 when Colonel Young husband, who led British Expedition to Tibet, defeated the Tibetan army there. As a crossroad on the principle trade route to India, it used to be renowned for the excellence of its carpets. The compound, encircled by an impressive wall, once contained 19 monasteries, presided over by the still intact fortress perched atop a nearby mountain. Upon arrival, check into the hotel. Late PM: Sightseeing tour ofGyantseKumbum, one of the most unique and magnificent buildings in Tibet consisting of 6 storeys complete with a Buddhists Hall and a prayer hall. It has 112 chapels and its walls are adorned with religious paintings. Built in the 15th century, it has withstood all battles and revolutions since. We also visit thePelkhorChode Monastery located near the Khumbum, it was founded in the 15th century. It has been remarkably well preserved and many of the statues and paintings inside it date back to the time of its founding. Overnight at the Gyantse Hotel

Day 10-Ride Gyantse ToLhasa Via Lake Yamdrok (3656m/287kms/7hrs)

Set out of Gyantse for Nagartse (100 kms) near Lake Yamdrok passing the Simi La (4200 m) and driving on a trail with fantastic views of the turquoise blue waters of the man made lake caused by the dam for the hydro project. Later we also cross the Karo La (5010 m) and the ride to Nagartse, a small village near the Yamdroklake and an ideal place for a lunch stop. Then ride along the picturesque trail of the colorful Lake Yamdrok, the Tibetan lifeline of the river Brahma Putra (YarlungTsangpo). YamdrokTso or Turquoise Lake is a lake of a glaring blue that radiates a near mystical charm. It is about 240 kms in circumference and is more like an Island sea. There are Yak herders around and the lake itself supports a population of scale less fish in its non-saline waters. It is about 124 km from Lhasa. Later we ascend to Kamba La (4,794m) and have an opportunity to meet the Yak Herders with their finely decorated Yaks and Tibetan Mastiffs. A great photo opportunity and one can take pictures on a Yak or with a bunch of decorated Tibetan Mastiffs for a fee. From here we descend to the main road head before embarking on the grand finale entrance to the Lhasa City. Lhasa – capital of Tibet at an altitude of 3650m is situated on the north bank of the Kyichu River in the province of U (central Tibet). Two high craggy hills stand up in isolation from the valley floor. One, Red Hill, is topped by the Potala Palace and the other, Chockpori or Iron Hill, is crowned by a tall antenna. Lhasa in Tibetan means “Place of the Gods” and Potala Palace ” the residence of the Dalai Lama (the god king), is the earthly representation of the celestial Palace of Avaloketswora, the Buddha of infinite compassion whose incarnation in the human form is believed to be the Dalai Lama. As Tibet’s political, religious and cultural centre it is a city truly blessed by the gods, where life is unhurried, is people jovial and yet remaining staunchly independent. Lhasa consists of two district parts consisting of different architecture, population and lifestyle. Old Lhasa, the Tibetan section, centers around the Jokhang Temple. Its streets are narrow, between white washed stone houses whose walls slope inward as they rise. Windows are framed in black trapezoids, with protruding fan shaped eaves above. Many houses have brightly painted woodwork. The Chinese section, was built in the last 30 years around the base of the Potala. It is characterized by straight, broad streets and utilitarian buildings that houses Chinese style department stores and all kinds of government houses. In spite of its forced pace of modernization, Lhasa has not lost it’s soul. It is a friendly city where a Tibetan will always return a smile. Overnight at the Hotel

Day 11-Sightseeing Tour Of Lhasa

AM: Visit Potala Palace – this architectural wonder – a spectacular edifice whose gold roofs soar high above the town and rise more than 300 meters above the valley floor and can be seen from all directions for miles around. The Potala Palace was built mainly during the Fifth Dalai Lama’s reign in 1645-1693 and remained the centre of political and religious power for the Dalai Lamas until the 14th. With over 1000 rooms, it contains the living quarters of the Dalai Lamas and their magnificent golden tombs after their death. Regents, tutors and other high lamas had apartments in the palace too. The Potala held the offices of government, a huge printing house and a seminary run by the elite order of monks who surrounded the God-King to train government officials. Hundreds of elaborately decorated chapels and shrines, halls and corridors contain thousands of gilded statues – Tibet’s pantheon of Buddhas, Boddisattvas, saints and demons. Today the Potala is a statue museum with 35 caretaker monks, but to thousands of Tibetan pilgrims, it remains a beloved shrine. PM: Visit the Jokhang Temple : Situated in the heart of old Lhasa, it houses Tibet’s most precious religious relic, a golden Shakyamuni Buddha which was brought as a gift by the Chinese Princess Wen Cheng on the occasion of her wedding to the Tibetan King, SongtsenGompo. JOKHANG dates back from the 7th century A.D. Legend says that SongtsenGampo, who built the temple, threw his ring into the air, promising to build a temple where it landed. The ring fell into a lake and struck a rock where a white stupa miraculously appeared – an auspicious sign.Surrounding the Jokhang Temple is the bustling Barkhor market place which is the religious and social focus of Lhasa. This, the spiritual centre of Tibet, is also the heart of Lhasa. After the sightseeing tour, return to the hotel. PM: Met by the Road captain and Mechanic and bikes are introduced. Proceed for a short ride around Lhasa City to familiarize yourself with your bike and make necessary adjustments if required. Overnight at theHotel

Day 12-Ride To Ganden & Sera Monastery (70kms/2hrs)

After breakfast met by the riding crew and ride towards Ganden Monastery – Located 45 km east of Lhasa along the road that follows the south bank of the Kyi Chu River, Ganden Monastery denotes the Paradise of Tushita and the abode of Jampa, The Future Buddha. Ganden is the foremost Monastery of the Gelugpa Sect. It is also the most devasted. Of all the Great Six Monasteries (Ganden, Sera, Drepung, Tashilumpo, Labrang and Kumbum) of the Yellow Hat sect, none suffered as disastrously as Ganden. Before the holocaust, over 2000 monks lived here. Now there are 300. The monastery, one of Gelugpa’s Great six was is built on a ridge called GokpoRi, the site where TsongKhapa first meditated inorder to choose a place for the main monastery of the sect. Ganden’s foundation was laid in 1409.Later return to the hotel in Lhasa. PM: Visit Sera Monastery: 5kms (3 miles) north of Lhasa. Sera’s setting is one of Lhasa’s prettiest. Once a community of more than 5,000 monks, it is virtually extinguished by the Chinese. Now the restored monastery sits below the brow of a hill on which Tsongkhapa built a hermitage and spent several years meditating. One of the monk’s disciples began building Sera in 1419, completing it a few years later. After the sightseeing tour return to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel
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Day 13-qpljy0mxgq7jt0pq4wfncmgcw57ge9a2nv0lkwv7mw

After breakfast set out for Shigatse via the northern route. The route today is relatively straight forward but scenic at times when we ride along the YarlungTsangpo (Brahmaputra River). Upon arrival at Shigatse check in to the guest house. Overnight at the Hotel

Day 14-qpljy0mxgq7jt0pq4wfncmgcw57ge9a2nv0lkwv7mw

AM:: After breakfast, proceed for the sightseeing tour of the Panchen Lama’s Tashilhumpo Monastery founded in 1447 AD by GendunDrup, the first Dalai Lama. It is the seat of the Panchen Lama who is second to the Dalai Lama in Tibetan Buddhist Hierarchy. The 5th Dalai Lama in declared that his teacher, then theAbbot of Tashilhunpo, who a manifestation of the Buddha Amitabha and the Panchen Rinpochhe. Tashilhumpo has one of the world’s largest statues – a 9 storeyed gilded bronze statue of Maitriya, the future Buddha. Also visit the Flea Market of Shigatse and browse around this ancient market looking for souveniers. After the sightseeing tour,set out for the ride to Shegar (269 kms). Leave Shigatse andcontinue on the Friendship Highway to arrive at Lhatse in 3½ hours (156 kms).Then ascend to highest Gyatso La pass at 5228 m which is marked by an array of prayer flags and a gate. This is the highest point on this stretch of the ride. Descend a little and weather permitting; one can get a glimpse of Mt. Everest. Continue to descend and arrive at New Tingri/Shegar, a big bustling town in about 2 hours (113 kms). Shegar is surrounded by mountains and is another town that lies in the shadow of a great fortress. Even in ruins it is majestic. Seeming to grow out of the craggy brown rock, its sinuous wall bristles with watchtowers like stegosaurus spines. Isolated in 1855 by marauding Nepalese in search of booty, the Gurkhas cut off the dzong’s water supply and settled in for a long siege. Shegar proper has little to recommend except the highest post office in China. Overnight at the Hotel

Day 15-qpljy0mxgq7jt0pq4wfncmgcw57ge9a2nv0lkwv7mw

From Shegar, set out for Rongbukand arrive at the army check post where passports and permits are checked. After the completion of the formalities, ride for another 4 kilometers to arrive at a marker showing the diversion to the Everest Base Camp. Enter 2 kms into the newly constructed gateway to arrive at another check post which is operated by the Quomolomgma National Park and is the gateway into the Quolomongma (Everest National Park). Here it is mandatory to present all the National Park entry permits for clients as well as the vehicles. After receiving clearance, ascend on a zigzag trail to Gyawla Pass at (5200 m) which is strewed with prayer flags. A few entrepreneurs set up shop selling souvenirs, prayer flags and tea / cold drinks / can juice. Pilgrims purchase these prayer flags and after writing the names of the family members stretch them along the hillsides. It is believed that as the wind flutters the flags, their prayers reach heaven. After a stop to view the Himalayas, descend once again zigzagging our way on 100 switchbacks all the way to the settlement of TashiDzom. After a turn, we suddenly arrive at Rongbukand the Lodges. In the distance, towering above everything else is the magnificent and awe inspiring view of Mt. Everest – Mother of the Earth at 8848 m. Upon arrival, take a break for lunch at the Rongbuk Guest House. As lunch is being prepared, a visit to the Rongbuk Monastery is quite an interesting and enjoyable one. After lunch follow the dirt road south and the Dzakar Chu (river), now much reduced in volume, is on your right. Soon the valley broadens and the road leaves the river to continue its ascent on the other side, swerving to avoid a rockslide. At the base of the slide is chorten; at its top are the ruins of the Samdrupo Nunnery (a small chapel has been rebuilt). Here is now situated the tented settlement of DzaRongphu which was relocated from the Everest Base Camp, whichliesjust beyond some moraine hills a mere 4 kilometers away. (Note: The new rules prohibit vehicles from going beyond DzaRongphu area. Clients need to travel by the Government coach and it costs Yuan 50.00 for a round trip Ride). So board the coach for the 4 kilometer Ride to the Everest Base Camp area. (Look out for the blue sheep that inhabit the area but blend quite well in the rocky landscape). Upon arrival at the lonely bus stop by the marker stating that it is the Quomolongma Base Camp at 5200 m. To go further from here requires an additional permit to either Advance Base Camp or a climbing permit for Mt. Everest. After getting off the bus, ascend steeply to a small ridge with prayer flags which provides an unobstructed view of Mt. Everest and the open Tibetan plateau leading to the Camp II area. During peak climbing season, one can see scattered tented expedition camps below. After being one with the mountain, descend to the Bus Park and board the bus for the ride back to DzaRongphu. Here we can spend some time at the tented city for a cup of tea/ noodle soup or shop for souvenirs or even send a post card from the mobile post office which is considered to be the highest post office in the world at 5200m. Later get geared up and then set off for Rongbuk and check into the Rongbuk Monastery Guest House. Overnight at the Rongbuk Monastery Guest House

Day 16-RideRongbuk To Tingri (4348m/78kms/3hrs)

After breakfast, set out for Tingri by retracing the route from Everest Base camp till the 26 kilometer marker. Leave the main road and take the small dirt track on the left leading to the river. Cross the bridge and head off with a steady climb through scattered Tibetan settlements. The road passes directly through the village and then descends steeply. On the other side of the ridge, we then start the climb through valleys with scenic views of the Tibetan landscape and fast flowing river to the highest plateau of the world. This area is still dry and dusty and has not been paved yet and allows for some entertaining off road riding. Dusty and weary we arrive at the high Tibetan plateau with good views of Cho Oyu (8201 m) and enter the settlement of Tingri in about 3 hours by covering a distance of 70 kilometers. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt. It gives its name to the broad upland basin more than 4,500 meters high that is known as the Tingri plain. Shallow, fast-flowing rivers of melted snow water make its grassy meadowland ideal for grazing by livestock. Upon arrival check in to the guest house. Rest of the day is free to relax or explore around the town. Overnight at the guest house

Day 17-GATXUWWYDFFHN4SK64F6H3X6UVUCRGMR6BXJ4JAPT2MMG5QI5VRQLQNE

From Tingri we Ride on the highest plateau of the world with typical view of the Tibetan landscape offering sheer feeling of standing on the roof of the world. Cross the Lalung La (5,200m) and Thong La (5050 m) from where, weather permitting, here is a breathtaking panorama of beautiful Himalayan ranges including Mt. Everest (8,848m) but is dwarfed by the vastness of the Tibetan plateau. The road passes through the desolate plain of Digur Tang with its enormous sand dunes and the snowcapped peaks of Shishapangma (8012m.) and Langtang (7232m.) in close proximity to the south. Leaving the Bum- Chu basin we descend towards PelkhuTso (4600m.) a stunningly beautiful lake into which the glacial streams of Da-Chu and Lha-Chu drain. After spending some time at lake continue ride to Kyirong Xian. From here continue ride towards Kyirong Town (approx. 70 Km). Upon arrival check in to the Hotel. Rest of the day is free to relax or explore around the town. Overnight at the Hotel

Day 18-GATXUWWYDFFHN4SK64F6H3X6UVUCRGMR6BXJ4JAPT2MMG5QI5VRQLQNE

After breakfast, ride down 24kms to the border of Nepal and Tibet. Here the porters will transfer the luggage to the Nepal side and we bid farewell to our Guide and driver from Tibet. Complete Chinese Immigration and then cross the small makeshift bridge and enter Rasuwagadhi, Nepal. Met by representatives from Nepal to assist and complete Nepal Customs and Immigration. Rasuwa is rich in natural resources. Langtang mountain range stands to the north of Rasuwa. The northern parts of the area largely fall within the boundaries of Langtang National Park. Gosainkunda Lake, Ganja La Pass, and Tamang village in Bridim are the major highlights of Rasuwa for tourism. The Goshainkunda Lake, also known as “Frozen Lake”, one of the most beautiful mountain lakes lies in the Langtang region. There are about 108 kundas (lakes) in this area. SaraswatiKund, BhairabKund, Surya Kund and Gosaikund are most important ones. Langtang valley is another attraction in Rasuwa which is aptly called the valley of glaciers; mountains rise soaring toward the sky. The valley offers pine forest, swift mountain streams, rugged rock and snow-capped peaks, grassy down and meadows strewn with daisies and wild animals. The ride from here is along the PasangLhamu highway with switch backs and dirt sections. This section of the highway is vulnerable to landslides and regular blockades during the monsoons. As we descend along the winding road, we will ride along the edge of the Langtang national park which will fall on your left. Most of the ride today will be slow and steady as this section is the major entry for goods to Kathmandu from China. We will come across big trucks and the road is just big enough for it. So giving way and waiting turns at corners and narrow stretches is time consuming. 80kms ride from the border brings us to a small town of Bidur. From the traffic junction we take a left and climb 9kms to The Famoud Farm Resort. Upon arrival, check into the hotel. Rest of the day is free to relax and explore the ancient Nuwakot Palace close by.

Day 19-GATXUWWYDFFHN4SK64F6H3X6UVUCRGMR6BXJ4JAPT2MMG5QI5VRQLQNE

AM: sightseeing tour of Nuwakot Durbar (Palance) and surrounding. Well talking about Nuwakot Durbar (Palae). The palace is at the top of a hill, 7 kilometersaway from the headquater of Nuwakot district. The hills are full of huge jungle. NuwakotDurbar is also known as “SaatTalle Durbar” means seven storied palace. Nuwakot Durbaris one of the historic with ancient wood carving and sculptures that aged back to seventeenth century were fabulous piece of artifact. Beside Nuwakotdurbarthere was Rani Mahal where dancers used to dance for the kings. As the palace has been converted to museum, it is open for all to see that past life of the royals. Each floor of the palace has got its own distinctive character. Nuwakot district itself has got very qnique and rare structure. This district is moon shaped in the map of Nepal. The Trishuli River will make you feel calm and relaxed with its fresh air and melodious flow. The river also hides the most valuable metallic mineral, the river roars at night which can be heard from the very distance. It gives such a heavenly pleasure that anyone can have sound sleep and lost in the dreams of mysterious Nuwakot District. After a quick breakfast, we head out towards Kathmandu. The route from here is on a dirt track. The red clay makes a sharp contrast with the blue of the Trishuli River. The road, at places, is full of pot holes caused by the big trucks and busses that ply this route and so riding is a bit difficult. A dust mask is essential by the constant traffic. There is an increase in traffic of motorcycle riders during holidays as many revelers are seen picnicking along the river banks. The beauty of the area is not easily forgotten. The rolling hills, the Trishuli River, ethnic villages, suspension bridges all make it a very interesting ride. A little after BahunBesi, the small village of Koshkade is located on the other side of the suspension bridge which is the venue for annual Bullfighting festival that takes place during MagheSakranti festival in January. After about 1 ½ hours of dirt track, the end of this stretch of road is a steep, uneven descent till the suspension bridge. Enter a busy and populated settlement of Devi Ghat and then set out for another kilometer to meet up with the main road from Trishuli Bazaar. From here, the road is black topped and riding along a path lined with pine trees for another 10 kilometers brings us to the famous Trishuli Bazaar and a great place for a much deserved lunch break. After lunch, the 72 kilometer ride to Kathmandu is an interesting one. Firstly, we retrace our ride for about 10 minutes through the hustle and bustle of the Trishuli Bazaar and then take the road to Kakani. Firstly, it is a steep winding descent but the scenery is fantastic. Deep forested areas, with clear flowing streams and waterfalls provide visitors of what Nepal is all about. The Langtanghimal from “TADI” in the far distance, is a beauty to behold. The riders wind their way up the narrow forested mountain road enjoying the view of the mountains, the colourful landscape and the small roadside settlements where time seems to stand still. As one comes to the top of the ridge at Rani Pauwa, there are signs that points to the trout farms which have been a blessing in disguise for the economy of the region. The cool mountain air, the cold waters of fast flowing mountain streams has been ideal for trout farming and people all the way from Kathmandu come here on weekends to enjoy this delicacy. The farms here supply much of the requirements of the restaurants and hotels of the Kathmandu City. Deep friend trout with “PiroGolbhedakoAchar” (hot and spicy tomato pickle) is just what the doctor recommends and is accompanied by a salad of fresh radish and carrots, another favorite from this region. The route from Rani Pauwa slowly descends via Kakani to Balaju. The sunset over Mt. Langtang, Ganesh Himal, DorjiLakpa etc. from Kakani is magnificent. Enroute, there are steep bends and descents and so the riders need to be extra careful with the oncoming traffic from Kathmandu. The army check post below Nagarjung checks everyone for any illegal plants or animals. As one descends into the Kathmandu valley, the view of the Kathmandu City, a cluster of dense concrete jungle greets us and we mill into the traffic at Gongabu to slowlynegotiate our way towards out hotel. EVE: farewell dinner Overnight at Kathmandu

Day 20-GATXUWWYDFFHN4SK64F6H3X6UVUCRGMR6BXJ4JAPT2MMG5QI5VRQLQNE

After breakfast, met by representative and transferred to the airport for the onward flight home. (Reporting time is at least 3hrs before flight time)