Pamir Peaks Adventure: Central Asia’s Ultimate Ride
Pamir Peaks Adventure: Central Asia’s Ultimate Ride is not just a tour; it’s an expedition that pushes the limits of adventure motorcycling. This journey is designed for those seeking an unforgettable ride through some of the most breathtaking and challenging landscapes in the world. It’s the ultimate test of skill, endurance, and spirit, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the most adventurous riders.
Over 12 days, you’ll travel from the ancient Silk Road city of Kashgar through the heart of the Tianshan and Pamir Mountains, immersing yourself in the incredible beauty and diversity of this vast region. The journey takes you from the historic Tash Rabat Caravanserai and the tranquil alpine lakes of Song Ku to the scenic shores of Toktogul Reservoir, with every day bringing new challenges and rewards. You’ll experience the vibrant markets and culture of Osh before pushing further into the high-altitude landscapes of Tajikistan, riding through the remote town of Murghab and the spectacular Wakhan Corridor, with an overnight stay in Zoogvand.
One of the ultimate highlights is the thrill of crossing the Ak-Baital Pass, one of the highest road passes in the world, reaching an elevation of 4,655 meters (15,272 feet). This breathtaking ascent offers not only awe-inspiring views but also a true test of your riding skills and endurance, making it one of the most exhilarating experiences of the journey.
As you navigate steep mountain passes, rugged terrain, and explore hidden valleys, you’ll be fully immersed in the rich cultures and traditions of the Kyrgyz and Pamir people. This adventure combines demanding roads with stunning scenery, making the Pamir Peaks Adventure the ultimate ride through Central Asia’s most challenging and rewarding routes. If you’re looking for the ultimate test of adventure motorcycling, this expedition promises to be an experience you’ll never forget.
This tour is organized in conjunction with our partner, Tibetmoto Tours. As experts and direct tour operator of Central Asia and Tibet motorcycle tours, with their own motorcycle fleet, a base in Shangri-La, and a dedicated international and local team, they ensure you experience Central Asia, its culture, and its people up close and personal.
You can also book our Guided South America Motorcycle Tour and savor breathtaking contrasts—from Amazonian rainforests and ancient Machu Picchu ruins to vibrant cities and soaring Andean peaks—offering an unforgettable adventure at every turn.
You can also join us on our Mongolia Motorcycle Tour and ride through Mongolia’s iconic landscapes – endless steppe, peaceful taiga forests, remote lakes and vast mountain ranges, combined in one unforgettable motorcycle adventure.
We also organise the North Vietnam Motorcycle Tour and Northern Thailand Motorcycle Tours with Golden Triangle Loop Tour on Royal Enfield Bikes . In case you are looking for a himalayan adventure along snow capped mountains and beautiful lakes we have the Ladakh 3 Lakes Motorcycle tour with Umling La, Khardung La and Mig La Pass.
At a Glance
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CFMoto 450MT (Ibex 450) + from $6,390.00 -
CFMoto 800MT (Ibex 800E) + from $6,990.00 -
Pillion + from $3,990.00
Hotels, Meals, Motorcycle, Tour Guide, Service Car and more
See All Included Services
All overnight stays in selected mid-range accommodation with en-suite shower/toilet, 4* accommodation in Kashgar and Osh, Yurts at Tash Rabat and Song Kul
12 days / 11 nights / 10 riding days
- Explore the vibrant Kashgar Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest markets in Central Asia, filled with local crafts, foods, and the essence of Silk Road trade.
- Visit the historic Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in China, and experience the rich Uyghur culture in the heart of Kashgar.
- Discover the Tash Rabat Caravanserai, a stone fortress in the Tianshan Mountains that once sheltered Silk Road traders, steeped in history and adventure.
- Marvel at Kyrgyzstan’s three most beautiful lakes: the serene Song Kul Lake, and the picturesque Toktogul Lake. Each offers breathtaking landscapes and a glimpse into the local nomadic lifestyle.
- Immerse yourself in Kyrgyz nomadic culture, staying in traditional yurts at Song Kul Lake and meeting the local herders who maintain their centuries-old way of life.
- Challenge yourself on the Pamir Highway, one of the world’s highest and most remote roads, where every turn offers stunning vistas of rugged mountain ranges.
- Ride through the awe-inspiring Ak-Baital Pass, the highest point of the journey at 4,655 meters, surrounded by towering peaks and wild, untouched landscapes.
- Navigate the Wakhan Corridor, a historical valley with sweeping views of the Pamir and Hindu Kush mountain ranges, and explore remote villages rich in culture.
- Experience the remote beauty of the Alay Valley, with its wide plains and dramatic mountain scenery, as you ascend through high-altitude passes.
- Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Muztagh Ata Glacier, one of the most stunning peaks in the Pamir range, visible on your final leg back to Kashgar.
- Visit the ancient Stone Fort in Tashkurgan, a historical landmark offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and insights into Silk Road history.
- Engage with local cultures and traditions, interacting with Kyrgyz, Tajik, and Uyghur communities along the route, learning about their way of life and rich history.
- Conquer the high passes of the Pamir Mountains, pushing your limits as a rider and experiencing some of the most remote and challenging roads in the world..
- Ride through the dramatic switchbacks of Taldyk Pass, a high mountain road offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
We tackle 10 famous passes and 3 “roads” on this Pamir Peaks Adventure Ride:
4.655 m / 15.272 feet | Ak-Baital Pass – the highest point in the journey
4.363 m / 14.313 feet | Kulma Pass – this pass marks the border between Tajikistan and China
4.344 m / 14.252 feet | Kargushi Pass – this pass provides access to the Wakhan Corrido
4.282 m / 14.050 feet | Kzyzl Art Pass – this pass marks the border between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan
3.968 m / 13.018 feet | Tash Rabat Pass – Located near the historic Tash Rabat Caravanserai
3.615 m / 11.860 feet | Taldyk Pass – is known for its winding roads
3.200 m / 10.500 feet | Sary-Tash Pass – connecting Osh and southern Kyrgyzstan
3.100 m / 10.170 feet | Zoogvand Pass – scenic pass located in the remote Wakhan Corridor region.
3.016 m / 9.895 feet | Song Kul Pass – Access route to the high-altitude lake, surrounded by nomadic yurt camps
3.000 m / 9.842 feet | Lower Taldyk Pass – The lower section of the Taldyk range, offering hairpin turns and panoramic views.
M41 Highway (Pamir Highway) | The M41, commonly known as the Pamir Highway, is the primary road traversing the Pamir Mountains through Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. It stretches over 1,200 kilometers and is renowned for its challenging terrain and breathtaking landscapes. This road connects Dushanbe in Tajikistan to Osh in Kyrgyzstan.
Wakhan Corridor Road | This road follows the historic Wakhan Corridor, offering stunning views of the Pamir and Hindu Kush mountain ranges
EM-05 Road | This road connects Osh to Sary Tash, passing through the Taldyk Pass and offering spectacular mountain views
Tour Gallery
Daily Itinerary
Arrival in Kashgar, China
As you arrive at Kashgar Airport, the gateway to the ancient Silk Road, you are greeted warmly by our team, who will assist you with your luggage and transport you to the Hotel. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to meet your fellow riders and our tour leaders. We gather for an in-depth tour briefing and orientation. Our experienced guides will provide an overview of the itinerary, cover safety protocols, and share essential information about the regions we’ll be traveling through. This tour briefing includes important details such as riding conditions, border crossings, and cultural considerations, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the journey ahead.
Next, the Bikes. Our mechanics will introduce you to your bike for the journey, ensuring it is perfectly tuned and ready for the road. You’ll have the chance to familiarize yourself with your bike’s controls and features, with our team on hand to assist with any questions. Additionally, a thorough gear fitting and safety check will be conducted, ensuring all your riding equipment meets safety standards and is comfortable for the long days ahead. After the preparations, enjoy some free time to explore Kashgar at your own pace. The city, rich in history and culture, offers numerous sights and sounds.
For those interested in exploring, there’s an option to visit the night markets or take a leisurely walk around the city, enjoying the cooler evening air and the ambiance of Kashgar at night. This first day is thoughtfully designed to ease you into the adventure, providing all the necessary preparations and a taste of the rich cultural experiences that await.
Altitude: Approximately 1,289 meters (4,229 feet)
Kashgar to Tash Rabat, Kyrgyzstan
On the second day, after an early breakfast, we set out on a scenic ride towards Tash Rabat, Kyrgyzstan. The journey takes us through the majestic Tianshan Mountains. As we approach the border, our team assists with the slightly complex border crossing procedures, ensuring a smooth transition into Kyrgyzstan. Upon crossing into Kyrgyzstan, we continue to Tash Rabat, known for its historic caravanserai. Here, we experience a stay in traditional Kyrgyz yurts, providing a cozy and authentic cultural experience. In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner, followed by some time to relax under the clear mountain skies. This day offers a blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and stunning landscapes, setting the tone for the rest of the journey.
Distance covered: approx. 400 km
Altitude: approx. 3,200 m (10,500 feet)
Tash Rabat to Song Kul – Kyrgyzstan
Today we set off on a scenic ride to Song Kul Lake. The journey takes us through rolling hills and valleys, with a mix of paved and gravel roads, offering both adventure and stunning views. As we ascend to the high-altitude plateau, we pass remote villages and witness the traditional nomadic lifestyle of the Kyrgyz people. Upon reaching Song Kul, we settle into traditional yurts by the serene alpine lake. In the evening, we share a traditional Kyrgyz dinner, offering a taste of local cuisine and hospitality. The day ends with a peaceful night in the yurts, preparing for the next leg of our journey
Distance covered: approx. 250 km
Altitude: approx. 3,000 m (9.840 feet)
Song Kul Lake to Toktogul
The route today descends from the highlands of Song Kul and heads towards Toktogul. The ride takes you through stunning valleys and mountain passes, showcasing the untouched natural beauty of Kyrgyzstan. Toktogul is a quiet, picturesque town located on the shores of the large Toktogul Reservoir, offering a perfect overnight stop.
Distance covered: approx. 400 km
Altitude: approx. 988 m (3.241 ft)
Toktogul to Osh, Kyrgyzstan
Today’s ride brings you to Osh, one of Kyrgyzstan’s oldest cities and a major Silk Road hub. The journey passes through rolling hills and agricultural plains, offering smooth tarmac roads and easier riding conditions. Upon arrival in Osh, you can explore the city’s famous Sulaiman-Too Mountain and the ancient Osh Bazaar.
Distance covered: approx. 300 km
Altitude: approx. 963 m (3,159 feet)
Osh Rest Day
A well-deserved rest day in Osh, where you can explore the city further, visit local markets, or relax and enjoy the local cuisine. Sulaiman-Too, a sacred mountain and UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a highlight not to be missed.
Altitude: approx. 3.650 m (11.975 ft)
Osh to Murghab, Tajikistan
This is one of the most thrilling and challenging days of the tour. The ride starts with the ascent of Taldyk Pass (3,615 m), offering tight switchbacks and stunning views. As you head toward Kyzyl Art Pass (4,282 m), the roads become more rugged, testing your riding skills with dirt tracks and high-altitude conditions. The real highlight and challenge comes at Ak-Baital Pass (4,655 m), the highest point of the Pamir Highway. The thin air and rough terrain make for an exhilarating experience as you navigate steep climbs and sharp turns. The day finishes with a descent into Murghab, where you can rest after a truly rewarding day of adventure riding.
Altitude: approx 3,650 mm (11,975 ft)
Murghab to Khorog
From Murghab, you continue along the Pamir Highway to the town of Khorog. The road weaves through high-altitude plateaus and rugged valleys, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Khorog, the capital of the Gorno-Badakhshan region, is a small, welcoming town along the Panj River. You’ll stay in a guesthouse or small hotel and enjoy the hospitality of the Pamir people.
Distance covered: approx. 340 km
Altitude: spprox. 2.200 m (7,217 feet)
Khorog to Zoogvand (via Ishkashim)
Today’s route takes you from Khorog along the scenic Panj River towards Ishkashim, with breathtaking mountain views on both sides. After a brief stop in Ishkashim, you’ll continue deeper into the Wakhan Corridor, navigating a mix of gravel and dirt roads. This stretch offers glimpses of the Hindu Kush and local villages, adding to the sense of adventure. The ride becomes more challenging as you approach Zoogvand, where the majestic Pik Karl Marx rises in the distance. The day ends in the tranquil setting of Zoogvand, surrounded by towering peaks and rich cultural landscapes.
Distance covered: approx. 210 km
Altitude: approx. 3.000 m (9,842 feet)
Zoogvand to Murghab
From Zoogvand, you retrace your steps back towards Murghab, experiencing the rugged beauty of the Wakhan and Pamir regions once again. This challenging route will push your riding skills to the limit as you navigate through high-altitude passes and rocky terrain. Upon arrival in Murghab, you’ll enjoy a night of relaxation after a day of intense riding.
Distance covered: approx. 240 km
Altitude: approx. 3.650 m (11,975 feet)
Murghab to Kashgar, China
The final ride of the journey takes you from Murghab back to Kashgar via the Kulma Pass (4,362 meters), the border crossing between Tajikistan and China. The road offers breathtaking views of the Pamirs and Karakoram mountain ranges. Once in Kashgar, you’ll celebrate the end of your incredible journey with a farewell dinner and a well-earned rest.
Distance covered: approx. 320 km
Kashgar, China
The Pamir Peaks Adventure wraps up with your last day in the vibrant city of Kashgar. After an easy-going morning, you’ll have some time to wander the streets, taking in the lively atmosphere of this historic Silk Road hub one last time. Whether you’re browsing through the bustling Kashgar Bazaar for a few final souvenirs or just enjoying the sights, sounds, and smells, it’s a perfect way to end this epic journey.
As you reminisce about the incredible experiences—the high mountain passes, remote lakes, and the rugged beauty of the Pamirs—you’ll bid farewell to your fellow riders and the challenges that made this adventure so unforgettable. After some final moments soaking in the unique blend of cultures that defines Kashgar, you’ll head to the airport for your flight home, carrying with you stories of one of the most remote and spectacular regions on Earth. It’s been an adventure filled with highs, both literal and emotional, and now it’s time to take those memories home. Safe travels and until the next ride
Services
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All airport transfers
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All overnight stays, accommodation with en-suite shower/toilet
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Breakfast, lunch, dinner (excluding drinks)
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GBAO Pamir Travel Permit
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During the motorcycle tour: drinking water in the escort vehicle
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All road tolls, bridge tolls, entrance fees during the joint program
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Motorcycle: BMW GS 800, CFMoto 800MT cc or CFMoto 450 MT
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Gasoline/oil and all spare and wear parts
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Experienced English speaking motorcycle tour guide during the tour
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Service vehicle for luggage transport and pillions. Every pillion has a guaranteed seat in the service vehicle.
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Experienced motorcycle mechanic (who can also ride your motorcycle in case of need)
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International flights to/from Bejing, China
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Domestic flights to/from Kashgar (KHG Kashi)
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Optional tips for guides and mechanics, souvenirs, shopping
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Tourist Visa for China (on Arrival) Travel passport valid for at least 7 months upon departure and 4 free pages in the passport
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Travel insurance and travel health insurance
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Additional baggage for domestic flights, this can be bought cheaply at the counter
Questions & Answers
In the course of your travel preparations, we’ll send you detailed information on obtaining visas and recommend agencies that will take care of the applications for you.
The tour will be accompanied by a support vehicle that can carry a motorcycle for a limited time in case of emergencies such as technical failures or illness of the rider. It also offers seats for pillion passengers.
The support vehicle can accommodate one carry-on size item weighing up to 10 kg per person. Other items, especially things that you may need during the riding day such as additional clothing, snacks, drinks, etc., are better stored in your cases or waterproof bags on your bike.
The journey is suitable for pillion passengers. Our support vehicle offers a limited number of seats for passengers to use as they please in bad weather or other situations.
Please contact a physician who can prescribe Diamox, a medication that can be taken in advance to prevent altitude sickness in Tibet.
Groups taking Diamox experience little or no symptoms of altitude sickness. For the smooth operation of the tour, your personal health and wellbeing, and for a pleasant travel experience in Tibet, we strongly recommend that you consult your physician regarding Diamox.
We can supply medical oxygen for emergencies from Kashgar onwards.
Entry/Visa:
Many nationalities can enter China visa free for up to 15 days. Those include:
Germany, France, Italy, The Netherlands, Spain, Malaysia, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Australia, Poland.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months. Some other nationalities need a visa to enter China.
Should the duration of the stay exceed 15 days, you must apply for the visa yourself or hire an agency to do so. Due to frequent changes in the application procedure, we recommend using an agency. Although you can apply for the visa yourself, it is only slightly more expensive to hire an agency and often saves a lot of work. The visa for China costs approximately EUR 300. More detailed information on the visa can be found in a specific appendix after booking upon request.
Depending on the specific tour, the following bikes are available for our motorcycle tours in Tibet and China: The BMW models G 310 GS, F 800 GS and R 1200GS, as well as the Shineray X5, a 400cc single-cylinder enduro.
A travel day normally begins at 8 am with breakfast. Around 9 am, after a short briefing by the road captain, it’s time for the day’s riding, the mileage of which can vary quite a bit. Plenty of time will be available for lunch and coffee breaks, of course. Depending on the day’s mileage, we’ll reach the destination hotel between 3 and 4 pm.
Since our tours vary considerably, we may also hit the road at 8 am on high-mileage days – which is also nice, because then we have the whole day ahead of us.
Your baggage will be carried by the support vehicle. Please don’t pack too much – remember: less is more. From time to time, we’ll have to carry our baggage over short distances to the hotel. Baggage is not insured, so please be sure to purchase your own baggage insurance for the trip if necessary. Your personal items for the day are best kept in the saddlebags or your daypack. Tank bags – including magnetic ones – can be used on the Enfields, but we don’t provide them.
All riders must have a valid motorcycle driving license issued in their home country. An international driving license is also required. Be sure to contact the relevant authorities in your home country well in advance for more information on obtaining an international driving license.
Documents – Please note: With your confirmed booking, we require a scan of your passport (data page only), your international driving permit (both sides), and one passport photo.
Six weeks before the start of the tour, we also require a scan of your Chinese visa (which can be applied for no earlier than three months before the start of the tour / entry into China).
The scans should be submitted in original size on one A4 page.
Groups generally consist of 8 to 14 riders and 2 to 6 passengers. The minimum number of participants is 6 riders.
Yes, all passengers have a guaranteed seat. In bad weather or challenging riding conditions, they can switch to the support vehicle at any time – and back to the bike when conditions improve.
We always recommend that you take out travel insurance to cover costs incurred if you need to cancel the trip due to illness or other reasons. When shopping for travel health insurance, make sure the policy covers the potentially high cost of medical evacuation to your home country. Both forms of insurance can save you a lot of money in an emergency and we recommend them unreservedly. In many countries, your national motoring organization can provide the coverage you need.
You will definitely want to bring your riding suit with protectors and a helmet. You will also need motorcycle boots or lighter riding shoes and gloves. While your gear should be breathable in hot climates, you need to be ready for anything at high altitudes and in the Himalayas. We recommend winter gloves, warm socks, liners for jackets and trousers, a scarf and face protection. Rain gear is a good idea if your riding suit is not waterproof.
Please note that we do not hire out clothing. We believe that your own riding gear will fit best and thus give you the best protection. If you forget anything, we’ll find a solution, however. We often have spare gear with us, or we can point you in the direction of a shop.
Oxygen: From Lhasa onwards, we have access to medical oxygen that can supply a person with oxygen for up to 24 hours.
Furthermore, you should contact a doctor who can prescribe Diamox, a medication that can be taken in advance to prevent altitude sickness. Groups taking Diamox rarely experience altitiude-related illnesses. For the smooth running of your trip as well as your personal health and well-being, we strongly recommend considering taking Diamox.
Mostly paved with some exceptions. Sections of road are often resurfaced and are therefore temporarily in poor condition.
The paved road is generally in good condition, sometimes with the occasional pothole of loose gravel. However, there are also sections with excellent new asphalt where you can enjoy European-level (or better) driving conditions and really let loose. Extreme caution is always advised in wet conditions due to the difficult-to-detect oil or diesel spills.
You should be able to handle a motorcycle confidently, and riding on winding mountain roads should generally not pose a problem. Any initial uncertainty will disappear once you get used to the local traffic. Our tour guide will also provide helpful tips for riding in China and explain the rules of the road at the beginning of the trip. The basic rule is: the larger vehicle has the right of way.
The currency in China is the CNY (Chinese Renminbi). The exchange rate is approximately 1 Euro to 7.56 CNY (as of May 2020). The CNY is not a freely convertible currency, therefore it is not available at every bank in Europe.
The exchange rate is set by the Bank of China and can be viewed at the following address: http://www.boc.cn/sourcedb/whpj/enindex.html. The most sensible approach is to withdraw a larger amount of CNY from an ATM using any major credit card or debit card immediately upon arrival in China.
Our local tour guide will assist you with this. Since the exchange rate for the CNY is usually very unfavorable in Europe, it is not worthwhile exchanging large amounts of CNY in Europe beforehand. Furthermore, cash can also be withdrawn from numerous ATMs in Lhasa.
Our experience shows that most participants spend around 20 euros per day. This amount is only sometimes exceeded when larger souvenir purchases are made.
A Concept by RC Hendrik
Road Captain & Managing Director
