Arguably the most adventurous ride a mountain biker can do is biking along the Himalayas from Lhasa to Kyirong. These adventurers can experience at first hand this rugged landscape and environment as well as get to know the life of local people and Tibetan customs. The trip of a lifetime.
Peak Pursuits: A Thrilling 17-Day Biking Adventure through Tibet’s Himalayas
Day 1-2: Lhasa to Lake Yamdrok Gyangtse
The route starts in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. Lhasa is a city with a rich history and culture. It is home to many important Buddhist monasteries, including the Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama. From Lhasa, the route heads south along the Friendship Highway. This highway is a well-maintained road that winds its way through the mountains. The scenery along the highway is stunning, with snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and rushing rivers.
The expedition kicks off with an 85km ride from Lhasa, allowing cyclists to acclimate to the terrain. Day two brings a 55km journey to Lake Yamdrok, crossing the formidable Kamba La Pass at 4,852m.
Day 3-4: Gyantse to Shigatse
Heading to Gyantse covers 86km, featuring the majestic Karo La Pass at 5,036m. Day four’s 75km ride leads to Gyachung Monastery, providing a cultural detour on the Sino-Nepal Friendship Highway. The first major stop on the route is Shigatse. Shigatse is the second largest city in Tibet. It is home to the Tashilunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama. From Shigatse, the route continues south towards Everest Base Camp.
Day 5-6: Lhatse to Rongbuk Monastery
The road to Everest Base Camp is a challenging one, with steep climbs and rough terrain. However, the views from the top are worth it. Everest Base Camp is located at an altitude of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet). It is the starting point for many expeditions to climb Mount Everest. A 95km ride from Lhatse sets the stage for Pang La Pass challenges. Day six, spanning 67km, treats cyclists to the breathtaking Mount Everest view at Rongbuk Monastery.
Day 7-8: Rongbuk to Gyirong Town
After visiting Everest Base Camp, the route continues south to Kyirong. Kyirong is a small town located on the border between Tibet and Nepal. It is a popular destination for tourists who are interested in experiencing Tibetan culture. From Kyirong, the route follows the Friendship Highway back to Lhasa. Connecting with the Friendship Highway, day seven covers 86km to Tingri. Day eight presents a 77km journey, conquering La Lung Pass at 5,050m and Thang La Pass at 5,150m, concluding in Gyirong Town.
Day 9-11: Gyirong Town to Kathmandu
Day nine’s 117km ride is the ultimate cross-border adventure, reaching Kathmandu via Gyirong Port. Days ten and eleven encompass rides from Rasuwa Gadhi to Dhulikhel, ending with a 35km ride to Kathmandu.
It is a great way to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and learn about Tibetan culture. If you are looking for an adventure, this is the trip for you. This cycling odyssey is not merely a physical feat but a journey through diverse terrains, offering cyclists an unforgettable experience. The expedition encapsulates the thrill of conquering high passes, witnessing iconic landmarks, and concluding in the vibrant capital of Nepal, Kathmandu.
Here are some tips for biking along the Himalayas:
- Be prepared for the altitude. The Himalayas are located at high altitudes, so it is important to acclimatize before you start your trip.
- Pack light. You will be carrying your own gear, so it is important to pack only the essentials.
- Be prepared for the weather. The weather in the Himalayas can change quickly, so it is important to be prepared for all types of weather conditions.
- Be respectful of the local culture. Tibet is a Buddhist country, so it is important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
- Be aware of the risks. Biking along the Himalayas can be a dangerous activity, so it is important to be aware of the risks and to take precautions to stay safe.
If you are looking for an adventure, biking along the Himalayas is the trip for you. It is a challenging but rewarding experience that will give you the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and to learn about Tibetan culture.
Conquering the Himalayan Trails: A 17-Day Biking Expedition from Lhasa to Kyirong
Day 1 – 3: Arrival and Exploring the Lhasa
Lhasa is located at an altitude of about 3,650 meters above sea level, which means that you may experience some symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, dizziness, or fatigue. It is important to drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and rest well during your first day in Lhasa. You can also take some medicine to prevent or relieve the discomfort, such as acetazolamide or ibuprofen.
There are many attractions and activities to enjoy in Lhasa, depending on your interests and preferences.
Some of the most popular and iconic places to visit are:
- The Potala Palace is the former residence of the Dalai Lamas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a magnificent complex of white and red buildings, perched on a hill overlooking the city.
- The Jokhang Temple is the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a stunning temple with golden roofs, intricate carvings, and colourful murals. It houses the most revered image of Buddha in Tibet, the Jowo Rinpoche.
- Barkhor Street is the lively and bustling market area around the Jokhang Temple. It is a great place to experience the local culture, shop for souvenirs, and taste some delicious Tibetan food. You can find various items, such as prayer flags, thangkas, jewellery, carpets, and yak wool products. You can also try some of the local specialities, such as momos, butter tea, tsampa, and yak meat.
- The Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lamas and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a beautiful park with gardens, pavilions, and ponds.
These are just some of the highlights of Lhasa, but there are many more things to see and do in this amazing city. 😊
Day 4 Lhasa to Quxu
Embark on an easy day after breakfast at the hotel. Cycle 71 KM, approximately 4 hours, from Lhasa to Quxu Bridge. Upon settling into camp, stroll to the Yarlung Zangbo River for a mesmerizing sunset view. Accommodation options include Quxu Hotel or Tent.
- Riding Time: 4 hours (71 KM)
- Route: Lhasa (3650M) to Quxu Bridge (3593M)
Day 5: Breathtaking Landscapes – Quxu Bridge to Nagartse
Breakfast precedes a 6-hour, 84 KM ride from Quxu Bridge to Nagartse County. Traverse Kampala pass, absorbing the charm of Tibetan villages and Yomdrok Lake’s spectacle. Engage with local villagers, set up camp in Nagartse village, and relish the serene surroundings.
- Riding Time: 6 hours (84KM)
- Route: Quxu Bridge (3593M) – Kampala pass(4793M) – Nagartse(4450M)
Day 6: Majestic Peaks and Monastic Wonders – Nagartse to Gyantse
Embark on a 6-7 hour, 104 KM journey from Nagartse to Gyantse. Ascend Karo La, the first 5000-meter pass, descend to Simi La and ride through barley fields to Gyantse. Explore Palkor Chorten Monastery and enjoy a night in a comfortable hotel.
- Riding Time: 6-7 hours (104KM)
- Route: Nagartse (4450M) – Karo La (5110M) – Simi La (4345M) – Gyantse (4025M)
Day 7: Sealed Roads and Spiritual Resonance – Gyantse to Shigatse
Travel from Gyantse to Shigatse on a sealed road in 6 hours (96 KM). Visit Tashilunpo Monastery, a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. Accommodation awaits at a comfortable hotel.
- Riding Time: 6 hours (96KM)
- Route: Gyantse (4025M) – Bainang – Shigatse (3836M)
Day 8 -9: Leisurely Exploration – Shigatse to Lhatse
Enjoy a leisurely day exploring Shigatse post-breakfast. After lunch, ride to Giding County (3 hours, 61 KM) and set up camp. Traverse Rena County, ascend Tso La for Himalayan views and descend to Lhatse for an overnight stay in a local hotel.
- Riding Time: 8 hours (150KM)
- Route: Gyantse (4025M) – Bainang – Shigatse (3836M) – Tso La (4534M) – Lhatse (4023M)
Day 10: Peaks and Descents – Lhatse to Baiba
After a light breakfast, ride 86 KM, taking in the Gyamtso La at 5220 meters, the highest pass. Descend amid stunning Mt. Everest views, passing Tibetan settlements, to camp in Baiba village.
- Riding Time: 5 hours (86KM)
- Route: Lhatse (4023M) – Gyamtso La (5252M) – Baiba (4393M)
Day 11: Detour to Everest – Baiba to Tashi Zong Village
Detour from the main road toward Everest Base Camp. Enjoy a 4-hour, 64 KM ride through stunning landscapes, with a camp set up in Zhaxizong village.
- Riding Time: 4 hours (64KM)
- Route: Baiba (4393M) – Zhaxizong village (4161M)
Day 12: Summit to Base Camp – Tashi Zong to Mt. Everest Base Camp
Embark on a 5-hour, 49 KM ride from Zhaxizong to Mt. Everest Base Camp. Enjoy rest and breathtaking views at Base Camp, located at 5020 meters.
- Riding Time: 5 hours (49KM)
- Route: Taxizong (4164M) – Rongbuk Monastery (4987M) – Mt. Everest Base Camp (5020m)
Day 13: Rest and Revel in Everest’s Majesty
A day of rest at Mt. Everest Base Camp. Witness the sunrise and sunset, marvelling at the highest peak on Earth.
Day 14: Descent to Tingri – Mt. Everest Base Camp to Tingri
Descend from Mt. Everest Base Camp to Monument Road 79 in a 7-hour, 74-km ride. Marvel at Everest and Cho Oyu’s majestic views, with an overnight camp in Tingri.
- Riding Time: 7 hours (74KM)
- Route: Mt. Everest Base Camp (5020m) – Longjiang La pass – Tingri (4327M)
Day 15: Lakeside Vistas – Tingri to Menbu County
Embark on a 4-hour, 62 KM ride from Tingri to Menbu County. Enjoy lakeside views, surrounded by Himalayan peaks, and camp at a pristine site.
- Riding Time: 4 hours (62KM)
- Route: Tingri (4327m) – Gucuo village – Menbu County
Day 16: Summit Views – Menbu County to Kyirong
Ride 123 KM in 7 hours from Menbu County to Kyirong, passing La Lung La at 5017 meters. Explore Pakpa Temple and stay at a local hotel.
- Riding Time: 7 hours (123 KM)
- Route: Menbu County (4327m) – La Lung La Pass (5017m) – Kyirong (2414)
Day 17: Farewell from Kyirong
Your tour guide ensures a smooth transfer to Kyirong Bridge, bidding you farewell.
Tips: Pack essentials carefully, including camera charger, power adaptor, mobile phone, phone charger, wallet, and towel.\
Essential Gear Guide for Your Lhasa to Kathmandu Cycling Expedition
Careful consideration is paramount when assembling your gear for the remarkable journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu. Striking the right balance is crucial; you want to be well-prepared for the challenges of the plateau without burdening yourself with unnecessary items. Here’s a comprehensive list of what to pack:
- Layer Up with Woolens and Cottons:
- Ample woollen clothes for the Tibetan climate.
- Comfortable cotton attire for varying conditions.
- Woollen and cotton socks to protect your feet.
- Gloves and scarves for chilly rides.
- Weather-Ready Wardrobe:
- Waterproof clothing for unexpected emergencies.
- Flannels for added warmth.
- Safety First:
- A mandatory helmet for your cycling adventures.
- Appropriate cycling shoes for a secure ride.
- Health Essentials:
- Carry a diverse range of medicines for any situation.
- Shield Your Eyes:
- Sunglasses to protect against harsh mountain glare.
- Skin Protection:
- Sunscreens and moisturizers for altitude-specific care.
- Personal Toiletries:
- Keep your toiletry kit personalized for comfort.
- Cycling Gears:
- All necessary cycling equipment for a smooth ride.
- Prepare for the Outdoors:
- Waterproof tents for potential camping over two to three days.
Packing intelligently ensures you’re ready for the unique demands of this cycling odyssey. Plan meticulously, and your gear will be your trusted companion on the road from Lhasa to Kathmandu.
