For Cycling Tour

Cycling in the Tibetan Plateaus from Lhasa to Kathmandu is an awe-inspiring experience that is a must for adventure cyclists. Starting and finishing in two of Asia’s most exotic cities, in 16 days we will cycle 5 major passes over 5000m and traverse a distance of 1000 km over the backbone of the Himalayas. The tour will complete the world’s longest downhill ride, from a high point of just over 5000m at Thang La to below 700m in Nepal – around 4400m in just over 160km of breathtaking descent.

This is one of the most interesting, remote and spectacular parts of the world. We begin with 3 days of sightseeing and acclimatising before heading across this beautiful landscape of snow- capped summits. Everywhere we pass we will see sights of religious devotion. Prayer flags fluttering on the tallest mountain passes, innumerable monasteries and temples with frequent processions of devout pilgrims.

Everest Base Camp is a 'not to be missed' inclusion in our tour. To cycle there is another major challenge, as the road climbs almost fifty hairpin bends over the Pang La Pass. Here at 5150m we see the magnificent views of the Himalaya, and of Mt. Everest itself. Finally reaching Base Camp is a memorable experience few ever forget.

This tour offers some great physical challenges with breathtaking scenery as you cycle "the Roof of the World"!

Grading

This trip is designed for the experienced cyclist. The distances and gradient each day are not extreme, but the altitude and terrain make this a tough trip. Along with the Karakoram Highway this is arguably the most spectacular and varied mountain scenery in the world.

Please Note: Although it is our intention to operate the itinerary as detailed below, it may be necessary to make some changes as a result of climatic conditions, alterations to flight schedules or other operational factors.

Fitness Levels
This trip is designed for the strong cyclist. You will cycle over 6 high passes, 5 over 5000m. Altitude, headwinds, long climbs all contribute to make this one of the hardest tours going. Most of the time you will be cycling on dirt roads at altitudes over 4000m. Although you do not need to be an athlete, it pays to spend some time before the trip getting into the best shape possible. This will ensure you get the most from your holiday. We can send you specific training tips on request.

Cycling Support
All the time you will have the security of a back-up vehicle, a 4WD land cruiser. The vehicle will carry our entire luggage and you when needed. Our leaders carry a good tool kit and will help to fix any bike problems. However, we cannot guarantee that we will be equipped for all repairs, so you must ensure that your bike is in good working order before the tour. If in doubt, have it fully serviced by a bike shop before you travel.

Accommodation
During the trip, the group will spend 9 nights in hotels, 1 night in a lodge and 11 nights camping. All accommodation will be on a twin share basis; since there are 5 of you, there is the single supplement. We choose accommodation on the basis of comfort rather than luxury.

Food
All food is provided on the cycling days. On non cycling days breakfast is included.

Transport and Local Guides
All transportation and local guides within Nepal and Tibet are provided. When you arrive in Lhasa (on the first day of the tour) you will be met and transferred to our hotel

Insurance
It is a condition of joining our trips that you must be adequately insured. All persons are expected to arrange their own insurance. Polices should cover any potential risks involved in a mountain cycling holiday.

Essential Equipment
You will need to have cycling helmet, gloves, sunglasses, sun cream, long hat, long trousers, waterproof jacket, 2 water bottles, basic bike repair kit including spare inner tube, sleeping bag (you could take your own or we will provide the necessary camping facilities for you); A full list of equipment to take will be sent to you on booking.

Vaccinations
Plan ahead for your vaccinations, some of them require more than one injection you should seek medical advice at least six weeks before travel. No vaccinations are currently required for the tour, but the following are recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Polio, and Tetanus. If you have recently travelled in a Yellow Fever affected part of the world, proof of an inoculation is required. Expert advice on medication should be sought.

Altitude Issues
Altitude sickness is the effect of the thin air at great heights. Travellers to Tibet may suffer some discomfort like breathlessness and headaches before becoming acclimatised. As Lhasa lies at over 3680m, you are likely to experience some of the minor symptoms and discomfort of altitude sickness (headache, mild nausea, loss of appetite) until your body adjusts to the elevation. This can take from a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the individual. Take it lightly, but drink plenty of non-alcoholic liquids. Proper hydration is critical.