LHASA - EVEREST BASE CAMP - KATHMANDU
(21 days)
TRAVEL DIARY BY PETER MUSGRAVE (September 2003)
This adrenalin-fueled challenging mountain biking trip across the ‘Roof of the World'
covers a distance over 1100 kilometers from the Tibetan capital, Lhasa to Kathmandu in
the heart of Nepal, crossing six high mountain passes over 5000 meters. Lhasa Everest
base camp Kathmandu biking is considered as the extreme & highest biking trip in the
world due to its length and the average altitude.
Before you embark on your biking adventure tour you have three days (i.e 4 nights) in
Lhasa to acclimatize and to absorb the exoticism of the Tibetan heritages and to explore
this history-laden city. With its spectacular mountain scenery and rich Buddhist culture,
Tibet is an amazing place to visit. You will be expertly guided around the most
significant and ancient Gompas (monasteries) of Lhasa, Gyantse & Shigatse by your
Tibetan guide, who will instruct you on the intricacies of Tibetan Buddhism.
Basking in the grandeur of nature, your mountain biking adventure passes through rugged
landscapes, historic and archeological sites, nomadic settlements and pristine hamlets
amidst spectacular views of some of world’s highest peaks. En route, you may dismount
from your bike for blissful photographic moments, sightseeing and camping. Exploring
the country side is another interesting and fascinating prospect that can indeed be quite
culturally stimulating. Another highlight of this biking tour is an off-road ride to northern
base camp of Mount Everest at 5200 meter to appreciate awe-striking view of Mt.
Everest’s northern face.
The spine-tingling world’s longest downhill biking followed by a vigorous uphill climb
to 5150 meter Thang La, is certain to give you a huge adrenaline rush.
Nepalese support crew containing an expert Nepalese mountain bike guide (also qualified
as mechanic), cook, camping helper etc. will follow your entire biking trail in Tibet and
Nepal with a 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser, a truck and a highly knowledgeable English
speaking Tibetan tour guide.
> TRIP FACTS
Trip length: 21 Days
Starts in: Lhasa
Ends in: Kathmandu
Group size: Maximum 12
Accommodation: Hotel and camping
Transportation: Mountain bike, 4WD land cruiser with support truck
Maximum altitude: 5200m
TESTIMONIALS
“We had a brilliant driver, cook and guide and really enjoyed what they bought to the
experience.”
Name: Justin Ryan
Country: New Zealand
September 2007
> HIGHLIGHTS
* The most challenging biking tour in the world.
* Adventurous bike ride to Mount Everest north base camp
* 3 days (4 nights) in Lhasa, staying near the city's main attractions - the Potala Palace
and the Jokhang Temple & 1 free day for self exploration in Lhasa.
* 1100+ km biking across the ‘roof of the world’ over six 5000+ meter high mountain
pass
* The spine-tingling downhill ride from 5150 meter high mountain pass
* Inspiring landscapes, superb mountain views, rich Buddhist history & culture &
Tibetan Nomads.
* Complete hassle free Chinese (Tibet) travel documentation.
* local expert guide, delicious meals, 4WD vehicle support.
* Spectacular flight to Lhasa passing right over Mount Everest and many of the highest
peaks in the world (if you join the trip in Kathmandu)
OUTLINE ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive Lhasa (3660m)
Day 2: Guided tour in Lhasa
Day 3: Guided tour in Lhasa
Day 4: Biking around Lhasa
Day 5: Bike to the Base of Khampa La (4794m, 80 km, 6-7 hrs)
Day 6: Bike across Khampa La (4794m) to Nagartse (4475m,
72km, 6-7 hrs)
Day 7: Nagartse (4475m) to Simi La (4330m, 67km, 5-6 hrs)
Day 8: Bike across Simi La to Gyantse (3950 m, 35 km, 3-4 hrs)
Day 9: Tour Gyantse & Bike to Shigatse (3900m, 90km 4-5 hrs)
Day 10: Tour & rest day in Shigatse
Day 11: Bike to the foot of Tso La (4290m, 106 km, 8-9 hrs)
Day 12: Bike across Tso La (4500m) to the foot of Gyamtso La
(4630m, 70 km, 5-6 hrs)
Day 13: Bike across Gyamtso La (5220m) to Shegar (4050m, 65
km, 7-8 hrs)
Day 14: Bike across Pang La (5150m,) to Choesang (4455m, 60
km, 6-7 hrs)
Day 15: Bike to Rongbuk (5000m, 24 km 3-4 hrs)
Day 16: Bike or hike to Everest North Base camp (5200m, 8 km)
Day 17: Bike or drive across Pang La (5150m) to Tingri or Hot
Springs (4350m, 75 km, 6-7 hrs)
Day 18: Bike to the base of La Lung La (4555m, 55 km, 4-5 hrs)
Day 19: Bike or drive across Lalung La (5124m) & Sung La
(5200m) to Nyalam (3750m, 87km, 7-8 hrs by bike.
Day 20: Bike to the last Resort in Nepal (900m, 60 km 3-4 hrs)
Day 21: Bike or drive to Dhulikhel (1450m, 75 km, 5-6 hrs by
bike), drive to Kathmandu (30 km, 1 hr)
DATES
8 May 2010 - 28 May 2010
4 September 2010 - 24 September 2010
PRICE
To be announced soon
PRICE INLUDES:
> Guided ride by local expert Mt. Bike guide .
> accommodation in Dhood Gu or similar in Lhasa, best available in Gyantse and
Shigatse including breakfast.
> Camping at all other places supported by a Nepalese cooking team & camping staff.
> 4WD land cruiser.
> Support truck for luggage & food supplies.
> Guided sightseeing tours with all entry fees.
> Travel permits.
> Tibet visa.
> Airport transfers and Gammov bag (altitude chamber).
PRICE EXCLUDES:
> Bike (can hire in Kathmandu).
> Lunch & dinner during Hotel stay in Lhasa, Gyantse and Shigatse..
> Airport tax.
> Hotels & sightseeing tour in Kathmandu.
> All insurance.
> All expenses of personal nature.
> Nepal re-entry visa.
> Any cost incurred in emergency evacuation due to any natural calamity or any
unforeseen events.
> Airfare from / to your country and your insurance.
Note:
Arrive Kathmandu 2 days prior to trip departures dates.
Contact us if you would like to reach Lhasa by train from Beijing.
Mountain bike suitable for this trail are available on hire in Kathmandu and we can take
care of hiring procedure.
Brand: Rally/Fuji/Trek/Giant- all front suspension
Frame: Aluminum/Chromo/Titanium
Gear: Rapid Fire/Two fingers/ Grit shift etc.
Hiring cost: USD 10 per bike per day.
There are dual suspension bike also available which cost USD 25 per bike per day (not
necessary).
Flight/train fare
Flight: rates and taxes are subject to change without prior notice
Kathmandu - Lhasa: USD 356 (Tue & Sat in high seasons)
Chengdu - Lhasa: USD 250
Beijing - Lhasa: USD 490
Shanghai - Lhasa: USD 512
Kathmandu – Beijing: 790
* Train to Lhasa from Beijing USD 255 on soft sleeper bed (subject to availability, please
read conditions/other available options)
* Tibet (Chinese) visa: USD 114 for all nationality (additional USD 85 applicable to
American passport holder as levied by Chinese Govt.)
> DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive Lhasa (3660 m)
You have options to arrive Lhasa, you can join the trip in
Kathmandu and fly to Lhasa or arrive Lhasa from
Chengdu, Beijing, Shanghai, Xian or any Chinese Cities.
(Please see option detail on ‘general information’ section)
You will be met at Gonggar Airport by your Tibetan
guide. After immigration formalities take a 1.5-hour drive along 93 km road leading to
Lhasa lying at an altitude of 3660 meters. It’s advisable to rest and take it easy for the
remainder of the day due to Lhasa’s altitude.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Lhasa
Foremost, your tour begins with a visit to Sera Monastery. An experienced tour guide
also working as an interpreter escorts you to this preserved monastery of white-washed
walls and golden roofs. Equally adventurous and exciting tempo builds up while touring
Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama. Jokhang Temple is another important
sacred site which unravels more deep seated mysteries of Tibetan Buddhism. Visit to
Barkhor Markets can be quite a change from other visits as you roam around the city
savoring every tiny detail from stall hawkers coaxing their clients to purchase their goods
to exhibition of Tibetan culture, custom and tradition.
Eventually, the tour for the day concludes as you return to
the comforts of your hotel.
Day 3: Sightseeing in Lhasa
Like the previous day, you experience invaluable insights
during your visits to Potala Palace and Drepung
Monastery. This 17th century Potala Palace offers an
awesome view of entire city and also has private quarters of the Dalai Lama, numerous
grand state rooms and chapels. Ancient history has it that Drepung Monastery which was
built in 14th century used to shelter around 10,000 monks but as now there has been quite
a declination resulting in only few hundreds. Tibetans’ respect and belief are immensely
knotted with this monastery.
Day 4: Biking around Lhasa
A final day in Lhasa for acclimatization. This is a day at leisure in which you are free to
explore further or ride to Sera Monastery. Afternoon spend in a café overlooking the
Barkor and watch the pilgrims as they circumambulate the Jokhang.
Day 5: Bike to the foot of Khampa La (4794m, 80 km, 6-7 hrs)
Mountain biking adventure begins from Lhasa. Cycling past history-laden city of Lhasa,
you will transverse through barley fields, traditional Tibetan villages and undulating
uphill slopes. Few kilometers ahead, a bridge appears across the river leading to the
airport. Chinese soldiers can be seen stationed at the mid-point of the bridge. Turning
away from the route to the airport, you have to skirt along another direction following
rarely-visited sandy path to Khampa La. The trail meanders through a village of mud-
walled houses and pastoral farmlands. You may attempt to interact with local villagers
with the assistance from your Tibetan guide. This gives you an opportunity to glimpse
into the lives of local villagers. Further ahead, the trail branches into a valley away from
Tsangpo and then ascends. You will approach your first campsite on a rocky territory
encompassing an area of width 30 meters and height 100 meters. After cycling for about
6-7 hours, you will eventually arrive at the foot of Khampa La (pass) at an elevation of
4794. At an idyllic site, you will camp for the night under starlit sky.
Day 6: Bike across Khampa La (4794m) to Nagartse (4475m, 72km, 6-7 hrs)
A tough climb across the first of six high passes of the trip. If you find it too tough
peddling up 4794 meter high pass you can always get on the support 4WD Land cruiser.
Once you are on the top of the pass you have a glittering views of Yamdrop tso (lake) and
stunning summit of Nanzin Kangsa (7252m). A descent to deep turquoise Yamdrok Tso
Lake amidst its exquisite mesmerizing views further accentuates the biking thrill.
Nomadic herders and grazing yaks make interesting picture-perfect view en route. After
lunch, you will ride along the shore of the lake on sandy roads for about 40km. The trail
further continues along ridges in the valley wall with breath-taking views of towering
snow-capped peaks as the backdrop. Sooner sheep pastures come into sight. Resting your
cycling journey for the day, you set a camp after riding for 72 km up to Nagartse village
at an elevation of 4475m.
Day 7: Bike to the foot of Simi La (4330m, 67km, 5-6 hrs)
Barking and howling of Tibetan Mastiff work as the morning alarm in awakening you
from your hard earned sleep. Cycling away from Nagartse, the trail progresses towards a
valley and to the top of Karo La the first 5000 meter pass of your trip (you have an option
to getting on the support vehicle). Crossing Karo La (5050m) you descend to the foot of
Simi La at an elevation of 4330m through several interesting Tibetan villages. Basking in
the grandeur of surrounding natural exoticism, you will overnight at a superb locale.
Day 8: Bike across Simi La (4375m) to Gyantse (3950m, 35 km, 3-4 hrs)
Today it is a fairly easy and short ride to the top of Simi La at 4375m and then mostly
downhill ride into a wide sandy valley towards Gyantse. The trail crisscrosses barley field
along the flowing river. Here, you will spot several military and religious sites. You can
bask in the sheer pleasure of visiting Pelkor Chode Monastery, and Gyantse Dzong.
Pelkor Chode Monastery has ancient murals, thangkas, chapels, mandala and paintings of
84 mahasidhhas in yogic posture. Gyantse Dzong was constructed in the 14th century and
offers majestic view of both Gyantse and Nyang Chu Valley. Gyantse Kumbum is one of
the major attractions of cultural interest in Gyantse. It houses several chapels and Tibetan
Buddhist murals. You will spend the night at comfortable hotel.
Day 9: Tour Gyantse & bike to Shigatse (3900m, 90km 4-5 hrs)
Today’s ride is on tarmac following Nyang Chu River to Shigatse, the second largest city
of Tibet. En route, you will encounter several trucks, cabs and pedestrians hurrying along
the busy streets of Shigatse. There are internet cyber café, many well-resourced shop,
restaurants etc. Tashilhunpo monastery, being one of the largest functioning monasteries
in Tibet, is a major attraction of Shigatse. Overnight here will be in a comfortable hotel.
Day 10: Tour & rest day in Shigatse
Today is the rest day to explore the local market and Tashilhunpo Monastery. This
monastery is one of the largest functioning monasteries in Tibet and there is much to
explore within its high surrounding walls.
Day 11: Bike to the foot of Tso La (4290m, 106 km, 8-9 hrs)
The road being bumpy, loose and dirty, you may find the ride strenuous. Following the
Friendship Highway, you will gradually climb to the foot of Tso La where you stay the
night at tented camp.
Day 12: Bike across Tso La (4500m) to the foot of Gyamtso La (4630m, 70 km, 5-6
hrs)
A fairly easy eight kilometers ride brings you to the top of the Tso La from where you
will have a clear view of the main Himalayan range. A brief stoppage at the top of the
pass follows a thrilling downhill ride to the small town of Lhatse. After lunch at riverside
the biking trail gains gradual climb to the foot of Gyamtso La at 4630 meter where you
camp for the night.
for more Information: This adrenalin-fueled challenging mountain biking trip across
the ‘Roof of the World' covers a distance over 1100 kilometers from the Tibetan capital,
Lhasa to Kathmandu in the heart of Nepal, crossing six high mountain passes over 5000
meters. Lhasa Everest base camp Kathmandu biking is considered as the extreme &
highest biking trip in the world due to its length and the average altitude.
Before you embark on your biking adventure tour you have three days (i.e 4 nights) in
Lhasa to acclimatize and to absorb the exoticism of the Tibetan heritages and to explore
this history-laden city. With its spectacular mountain scenery and rich Buddhist culture,
Tibet is an amazing place to visit. You will be expertly guided around the most
significant and ancient Gompas (monasteries) of Lhasa, Gyantse & Shigatse by your
Tibetan guide, who will instruct you on the intricacies of Tibetan Buddhism.
Basking in the grandeur of nature, your mountain biking adventure passes through rugged
landscapes, historic and archeological sites, nomadic settlements and pristine hamlets
amidst spectacular views of some of world’s highest peaks. En route, you may dismount
from your bike for blissful photographic moments, sightseeing and camping. Exploring
the country side is another interesting and fascinating prospect that can indeed be quite
culturally stimulating. Another highlight of this biking tour is an off-road ride to northern
base camp of Mount Everest at 5200 meter to appreciate awe-striking view of Mt.
Everest’s northern face.
The spine-tingling world’s longest downhill biking followed by a vigorous uphill climb
to 5150 meter Thang La, is certain to give you a huge adrenaline rush.
Nepalese support crew containing an expert Nepalese mountain bike guide (also qualified
as mechanic), cook, camping helper etc. will follow your entire biking trail in Tibet and
Nepal with a 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser, a truck and a highly knowledgeable English
speaking Tibetan tour guide.
> TRIP FACTS
Trip length: 21 Days
Starts in: Lhasa
Ends in: Kathmandu
Group size: Maximum 12
Accommodation: Hotel and camping
Transportation: Mountain bike, 4WD land cruiser with support truck
Maximum altitude: 5200m
TESTIMONIALS
“We had a brilliant driver, cook and guide and really enjoyed what they bought to the
experience.”
Name: Justin Ryan
Country: New Zealand
September 2007
> HIGHLIGHTS
* The most challenging biking tour in the world.
* Adventurous bike ride to Mount Everest north base camp
* 3 days (4 nights) in Lhasa, staying near the city's main attractions - the Potala Palace
and the Jokhang Temple & 1 free day for self exploration in Lhasa.
* 1100+ km biking across the ‘roof of the world’ over six 5000+ meter high mountain
pass
* The spine-tingling downhill ride from 5150 meter high mountain pass
* Inspiring landscapes, superb mountain views, rich Buddhist history & culture &
Tibetan Nomads.
* Complete hassle free Chinese (Tibet) travel documentation.
* local expert guide, delicious meals, 4WD vehicle support.
* Spectacular flight to Lhasa passing right over Mount Everest and many of the highest
peaks in the world (if you join the trip in Kathmandu)
OUTLINE ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive Lhasa (3660m)
Day 2: Guided tour in Lhasa
Day 3: Guided tour in Lhasa
Day 4: Biking around Lhasa
Day 5: Bike to the Base of Khampa La (4794m, 80 km, 6-7 hrs)
Day 6: Bike across Khampa La (4794m) to Nagartse (4475m,
72km, 6-7 hrs)
Day 7: Nagartse (4475m) to Simi La (4330m, 67km, 5-6 hrs)
Day 8: Bike across Simi La to Gyantse (3950 m, 35 km, 3-4 hrs)
Day 9: Tour Gyantse & Bike to Shigatse (3900m, 90km 4-5 hrs)
Day 10: Tour & rest day in Shigatse
Day 11: Bike to the foot of Tso La (4290m, 106 km, 8-9 hrs)
Day 12: Bike across Tso La (4500m) to the foot of Gyamtso La
(4630m, 70 km, 5-6 hrs)
Day 13: Bike across Gyamtso La (5220m) to Shegar (4050m, 65
km, 7-8 hrs)
Day 14: Bike across Pang La (5150m,) to Choesang (4455m, 60
km, 6-7 hrs)
Day 15: Bike to Rongbuk (5000m, 24 km 3-4 hrs)
Day 16: Bike or hike to Everest North Base camp (5200m, 8 km)
Day 17: Bike or drive across Pang La (5150m) to Tingri or Hot
Springs (4350m, 75 km, 6-7 hrs)
Day 18: Bike to the base of La Lung La (4555m, 55 km, 4-5 hrs)
Day 19: Bike or drive across Lalung La (5124m) & Sung La
(5200m) to Nyalam (3750m, 87km, 7-8 hrs by bike.
Day 20: Bike to the last Resort in Nepal (900m, 60 km 3-4 hrs)
Day 21: Bike or drive to Dhulikhel (1450m, 75 km, 5-6 hrs by
bike), drive to Kathmandu (30 km, 1 hr)
DATES
8 May 2010 - 28 May 2010
4 September 2010 - 24 September 2010
PRICE
To be announced soon
PRICE INLUDES:
> Guided ride by local expert Mt. Bike guide .
> accommodation in Dhood Gu or similar in Lhasa, best available in Gyantse and
Shigatse including breakfast.
> Camping at all other places supported by a Nepalese cooking team & camping staff.
> 4WD land cruiser.
> Support truck for luggage & food supplies.
> Guided sightseeing tours with all entry fees.
> Travel permits.
> Tibet visa.
> Airport transfers and Gammov bag (altitude chamber).
PRICE EXCLUDES:
> Bike (can hire in Kathmandu).
> Lunch & dinner during Hotel stay in Lhasa, Gyantse and Shigatse..
> Airport tax.
> Hotels & sightseeing tour in Kathmandu.
> All insurance.
> All expenses of personal nature.
> Nepal re-entry visa.
> Any cost incurred in emergency evacuation due to any natural calamity or any
unforeseen events.
> Airfare from / to your country and your insurance.
Note:
Arrive Kathmandu 2 days prior to trip departures dates.
Contact us if you would like to reach Lhasa by train from Beijing.
Mountain bike suitable for this trail are available on hire in Kathmandu and we can take
care of hiring procedure.
Brand: Rally/Fuji/Trek/Giant- all front suspension
Frame: Aluminum/Chromo/Titanium
Gear: Rapid Fire/Two fingers/ Grit shift etc.
Hiring cost: USD 10 per bike per day.
There are dual suspension bike also available which cost USD 25 per bike per day (not
necessary).
Flight/train fare
Flight: rates and taxes are subject to change without prior notice
Kathmandu - Lhasa: USD 356 (Tue & Sat in high seasons)
Chengdu - Lhasa: USD 250
Beijing - Lhasa: USD 490
Shanghai - Lhasa: USD 512
Kathmandu – Beijing: 790
* Train to Lhasa from Beijing USD 255 on soft sleeper bed (subject to availability, please
read conditions/other available options)
* Tibet (Chinese) visa: USD 114 for all nationality (additional USD 85 applicable to
American passport holder as levied by Chinese Govt.)
> DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive Lhasa (3660 m)
You have options to arrive Lhasa, you can join the trip in
Kathmandu and fly to Lhasa or arrive Lhasa from
Chengdu, Beijing, Shanghai, Xian or any Chinese Cities.
(Please see option detail on ‘general information’ section)
You will be met at Gonggar Airport by your Tibetan
guide. After immigration formalities take a 1.5-hour drive along 93 km road leading to
Lhasa lying at an altitude of 3660 meters. It’s advisable to rest and take it easy for the
remainder of the day due to Lhasa’s altitude.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Lhasa
Foremost, your tour begins with a visit to Sera Monastery. An experienced tour guide
also working as an interpreter escorts you to this preserved monastery of white-washed
walls and golden roofs. Equally adventurous and exciting tempo builds up while touring
Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama. Jokhang Temple is another important
sacred site which unravels more deep seated mysteries of Tibetan Buddhism. Visit to
Barkhor Markets can be quite a change from other visits as you roam around the city
savoring every tiny detail from stall hawkers coaxing their clients to purchase their goods
to exhibition of Tibetan culture, custom and tradition. Eventually, the tour for the day
concludes as you return to the comforts of your hotel.
Day 3: Sightseeing in Lhasa
Like the previous day, you experience invaluable insights during your visits to Potala
Palace and Drepung Monastery. This 17th century Potala Palace offers an awesome view
of entire city and also has private quarters of the Dalai Lama, numerous grand state
rooms and chapels. Ancient history has it that Drepung Monastery which was built in
14th century used to shelter around 10,000 monks but as now there has been quite a
declination resulting in only few hundreds. Tibetans’ respect and belief are immensely
knotted with this monastery.
Day 4: Biking around Lhasa
A final day in Lhasa for acclimatization. This is a day at
leisure in which you are free to explore further or ride to
Sera Monastery. Afternoon spend in a café overlooking
the Barkor and watch the pilgrims as they circumambulate
the Jokhang.
Day 5: Bike to the foot of Khampa La (4794m, 80 km,
6-7 hrs)
Mountain biking adventure begins from Lhasa. Cycling past history-laden city of Lhasa,
you will transverse through barley fields, traditional Tibetan villages and undulating
uphill slopes. Few kilometers ahead, a bridge appears across the river leading to the
airport. Chinese soldiers can be seen stationed at the mid-point of the bridge. Turning
away from the route to the airport, you have to skirt along another direction following
rarely-visited sandy path to Khampa La. The trail meanders through a village of mud-
walled houses and pastoral farmlands. You may attempt to interact with local villagers
with the assistance from your Tibetan guide. This gives you an opportunity to glimpse
into the lives of local villagers. Further ahead, the trail branches into a valley away from
Tsangpo and then ascends. You will approach your first campsite on a rocky territory
encompassing an area of width 30 meters and height 100 meters. After cycling for about
6-7 hours, you will eventually arrive at the foot of Khampa La (pass) at an elevation of
4794. At an idyllic site, you will camp for the night under starlit sky.
Day 6: Bike across Khampa La (4794m) to Nagartse (4475m, 72km, 6-7 hrs)
A tough climb across the first of six high passes of the trip. If you find it too tough
peddling up 4794 meter high pass you can always get on the support 4WD Land cruiser.
Once you are on the top of the pass you have a glittering views of Yamdrop tso (lake) and
stunning summit of Nanzin Kangsa (7252m). A descent to deep turquoise Yamdrok Tso
Lake amidst its exquisite mesmerizing views further accentuates the biking thrill.
Nomadic herders and grazing yaks make interesting picture-perfect view en route. After
lunch, you will ride along the shore of the lake on sandy roads for about 40km. The trail
further continues along ridges in the valley wall with breath-taking views of towering
snow-capped peaks as the backdrop. Sooner sheep pastures come into sight. Resting your
cycling journey for the day, you set a camp after riding for 72 km up to Nagartse village
at an elevation of 4475m.
Day 7: Bike to the foot of Simi La (4330m, 67km, 5-6 hrs)
Barking and howling of Tibetan Mastiff work as the morning alarm in awakening you
from your hard earned sleep. Cycling away from Nagartse, the trail progresses towards a
valley and to the top of Karo La the first 5000 meter pass of your trip (you have an option
to getting on the support vehicle). Crossing Karo La (5050m) you descend to the foot of
Simi La at an elevation of 4330m through several interesting Tibetan villages. Basking in
the grandeur of surrounding natural exoticism, you will overnight at a superb locale.
Day 8: Bike across Simi La (4375m) to Gyantse (3950m, 35 km, 3-4 hrs)
Today it is a fairly easy and short ride to the top of Simi La at 4375m and then mostly
downhill ride into a wide sandy valley towards Gyantse. The trail crisscrosses barley field
along the flowing river. Here, you will spot several military and religious sites. You can
bask in the sheer pleasure of visiting Pelkor Chode Monastery, and Gyantse Dzong.
Pelkor Chode Monastery has ancient murals, thangkas, chapels, mandala and paintings of
84 mahasidhhas in yogic posture. Gyantse Dzong was constructed in the 14th century and
offers majestic view of both Gyantse and Nyang Chu Valley. Gyantse Kumbum is one of
the major attractions of cultural interest in Gyantse. It houses several chapels and Tibetan
Buddhist murals. You will spend the night at comfortable hotel.
Day 9: Tour Gyantse & bike to Shigatse (3900m, 90km 4-5 hrs)
Today’s ride is on tarmac following Nyang Chu River to Shigatse, the second largest city
of Tibet. En route, you will encounter several trucks, cabs and pedestrians hurrying along
the busy streets of Shigatse. There are internet cyber café, many well-resourced shop,
restaurants etc. Tashilhunpo monastery, being one of the largest functioning monasteries
in Tibet, is a major attraction of Shigatse. Overnight here will be in a comfortable hotel.
Day 10: Tour & rest day in Shigatse
Today is the rest day to explore the local market and Tashilhunpo Monastery. This
monastery is one of the largest functioning monasteries in Tibet and there is much to
explore within its high surrounding walls.
Day 11: Bike to the foot of Tso La (4290m, 106 km, 8-9 hrs)
The road being bumpy, loose and dirty, you may find the ride strenuous. Following the
Friendship Highway, you will gradually climb to the foot of Tso La where you stay the
night at tented camp.
Day 12: Bike across Tso La (4500m) to the foot of Gyamtso La (4630m, 70 km, 5-6
hrs)
A fairly easy eight kilometers ride brings you to the top of the Tso La from where you
will have a clear view of the main Himalayan range. A brief stoppage at the top of the
pass follows a thrilling downhill ride to the small town of Lhatse. After lunch at riverside
the biking trail gains gradual climb to the foot of Gyamtso La at 4630 meter where you
camp for the night.
For more detail:
http://www.explorehimalaya.com/tibet_mountain_biking_lhasa_ktm.php
