Renowned for its majestic mountain ranges, vast plateaus and rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years, Tibet is a land of captivating beauty and profound spirituality in Central Asia. Except for traditional ways to travel Tibet, cyclists can choose an extraordinary expedition with a bicycle to appreciate the unique culture and landscapes of this region. 

What is a Tibet Cycling Tour?

A cycling tour through Tibet promises an unforgettable experience filled with exploration, discovery, and connections with both the land and its people. Cyclists can expect to pedal through rugged mountain passes, serene valleys, and ancient Tibetan villages. Along the way, expect encounters with friendly locals, visits to ancient monasteries, and moments to feel the quiet wilderness. Cycling in Tibet offers a more intimate and immersive experience, allowing tourists to connect with the environment and local communities closer. 

What is the Fitness Demand for a Tibet Cycling Tour?

Due to the high altitude and long ride on the road, a Tibet cycling tour requires a higher level of physical fitness and mental endurance. We can help arrange a relatively easy cycling tour around Lhasa for most tourists. But if you want to undertake a cycling tour from Lhasa to Namtso Lake or even to Everest Base Camp, you need a significant degree of fitness to finish the whole journey. Even though the road condition is good nowadays in Tibet, tourists need to overcome the twists and turns along the road. What's more, the high altitude will make it difficult to breathe and exert oneself when the air becomes thinner. It's essential to engage in training prior to the journey and to be strong enough to be able to cycle in high-altitude areas and minimize the risk of altitude-related illnesses. 

three strong cyclists

How to Organize a Tibet Cycling Tour?

International tourists must obtain the necessary permits required to enter Tibet legally. This includes the Tibet Travel Permit, which is issued by the Chinese authorities, as well as the Aliens’ Travel Permit, which is required for travel to certain restricted areas. Only reliable travel agencies in Tibet can help tourists go through the application process. As an experienced Tibet travel agency, we know how to assist you in getting a Tibet Travel Permit and additional permits successfully. Just feel free to contact us for details. 

Some professional cyclists or cycling enthusiasts have their own bicycles that they are familiar with. It is okay to bring your bicycle to ride in Tibet. And it is not that complicated to cycle in this region. However, for international tourists, traveling to another country with a bicycle may be not an easy task. But it could be more expensive than renting a bicycle from a local travel agency. If you are planning a Tibet cycling tour right now, you can contact us for more information on bicycles that we can offer. Tibet Horizon is a responsible travel agency in Tibet that has been providing bicycle rental services for tourists for many years. We will recommend well-maintained and sturdy mountain bicycles that perfectly suit your body and itinerary. 

Before riding outside Lhasa, we can arrange different hotels to suit your needs. Normally, Lhasa can offer tourists plenty of hotels ranging from 5-star to guesthouses. Most of those hotels can meet the standard that you are looking for. However, accommodation along the route may be limited, especially in remote areas. What you can expect are hotels or guesthouses that cater to cyclists and provide amenities such as hot showers, comfortable beds, clean toilets and nutritious meals. And we can also arrange camping at proper places based on your requests. At the same time, booking rooms in advance is necessary for a Tibet cycling tour. We will make arrangements for you based on your daily trip route. 

a cyclist lying outside a tent

Packing for a cycling tour in Tibet is also an important part. Too much or too little luggage can make your ride in this high-altitude land difficult. Proper cycling gear like a helmet, padded shorts and cycling shoes is a must. Besides, you should bring warm clothing, a waterproof jacket and gloves to deal with the changing weather and temperature along the road. Besides, you should also pack items like sunscreen, sunglasses, bottled water and a first-aid kit while riding a bicycle in Tibet. 

We are the leading travel agency based in Tibet and your cycling tour will be fully supported with a backup vehicle all the way. Everything a cycling tour may need will be prepared for emergencies. Besides, our professional cycling team will be there for the entire trip to help adjust or repair your bike and provide service as you need. An air-conditioned passenger vehicle can also be included in case you want to take a rest and adjust your pace. 

The Best Cycling Tour Route in Tibet

For cycling enthusiasts worldwide, the 16 days Tibet Cycling Tour from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp is probably the most popular and the most challenging route. This classic route starts from Lhasa and then leads to Yamdrok Lake, Gyantse and Shigatse. It will guide tourists to ride through some of the world's most spectacular landscapes, including soaring mountain ranges, pristine valleys, and serene lakes. And with stops at iconic Tibetan monasteries, historic towns and traditional villages, cyclists get the chance to learn the unique customs and traditions of the region. Besides, the allure of Mount Everest, the highest peak on Earth, definitely draws adventurous cyclists from around the world. At the end of the tour, you will drive back from Everest Base Camp to Shigatse and finally back to Lhasa. With the support of experienced tour operators like us, it is possible for most riders of varying skill levels to finish.

group photo before the snowy mountain

A Tibet cycling tour offers cyclists a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the majestic landscapes and ancient culture of the Roof of the World. No matter which route you choose, Tibet Horizon will provide 100% support for the entire journey. Meanwhile, we are always waiting for your messages to share your thoughts and customize an itinerary that suits your fitness level and preferences.