【Blog】Cycling in Tibet

News

In the morning of October 10, 2019, the second Trans-Himalayan International Bicycle Extreme Race ended successfully in Lhasa!

Cyclists from Ukraine took a group photo with their trophy in front of the Potala Palace.

Tips

Cycling in Tibet is becoming more and more popular among young people.

When cycling in Tibet, tourists can not only enjoy the beautiful natural scenery, but also enjoy the typical Tibetan village scenery.

However, compared with other normal bicycle tours,  this is a challenging journey, because travelers will ride on such an elevation of more than 3000 meters. More details please refer to cycling guide in Tibet.

Best Time for Tibet Cycling

April to October is the best time to visit Tibet, avoiding the coldest months from December to February. But July and August are the rainy season in Tibet, so for your safety, it is best to skip the two months if you want to do a Tibet cycling tour.

Equipments

1. A knapsack (bicycle saddlebag)

2. A mountain bike, spare parts and maintenance tools.

3. Ropes, a pair of scissors and a knife.

4. High altitude tent, warm sleeping bag, self-inflating mattress, moisture-proof pad.

5. A long stick used for self-defense

6. Compass, elevation watch, torch, spare batteries.

Tibet Permits

Tibet Travel Permit is a must for foreign travelers visiting Tibet. We will need at least about 7-15 days for the application based on our travel plan. Normally speaking, passport and Chinese visa copy will be enough. Some supporting documents may be required according to your visa type or travel routes.

Bike

Mountain bikes are good partners for you to cycle in Tibet. With the development of Tibet's tourism, nowadays it is easy to buy or rent a mountain bike in Lhasa.

Altitude Sickness Medicine

On the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, due to high altitude, intense exercise will be easy to lead to hypoxia, causing or aggravating altitude reaction. Therefore, tourists need to bring altitude sickness medicine to relieve altitude stress.

Clothes

You'd better take some down garments (those with hats will better), woolen sweaters, warm gloves, warm and wind-proof shoes and socks.

Even in summer, a down coat is necessary for those who are traveling beyond Lhasa and Shigatse into more remote areas such as Everest Base Camp.

Others

No matter you have a support car or not, a good water-proof tent, a warm sleeping bag, a first-aid kit, a map and adequate food and water are what should be packed at least.

Anyhow, if you want to customize a ride tour in Tibet, free to contact us immediately!