Lhasa To Kathmandu Ride

20 days - from $3430

An epic ride across 'the forbidden land', taking in Kathmandu and Lhasa, the north face of Everest, 5000m+ passes, and an unrivalled 4000m descent into Nepal!
Tibet, protected by the great Himalayan chain to the south and west, and by the even more inhospitable mountains to the north and east, has haunted the ambition of explorers for centuries. The allure is as high as the altitude, and for the adventurous cyclist this land of rugged beauty, vast landscapes, brilliant skies and glittering peaks offers one of the ultimate biking challenges. After some essential time acclimatising around Kathmandu and Lhasa, our route takes us across high altitude desert, over awesome mountain passes, stopping off at Rongbuk Monastery and Base Camp for views of the north face of Everest, before making the 160km, 4600m descent into Nepal and the lush Kathmandu Valley. In recent years much of the route has been surfaced making it perfect for cycling. A tough trip, but for those who venture to the spectacular beauty of Tibet, the sense of achievement is guaranteed. 

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Kathmandu. 2 Warm-up ride along the roads and trails of the Kathmandu Valley. 3 Fly to Lhasa. 4-5 Optional rides and cultural visits in and around Lhasa to Sera Monastery, Potala Palace, or relax in Lhasa. 6 Ride out of Lhasa along Lhasa River to Chusul. 7 Transfer (or ride) over the Khamba La (4794m) and on to Yamdrok Lake; to Nagatze. 8 Ascend to Karo La (5045m) followed by 1000m descent to Gyantse. 9 Ride down to Shigatse. 10 Rest day in Shigatse and visit Tashilhunpo Monastery. 11 Cycle the passes of Tra La (4050m) and Tsuo La (4520m) to Lhatse. 12 Gyatso La (5248m) challenge. 13 Ride up Pang La (5200m) for panoramic views of Everest and Cho Oyu. 14 Cycle to Rongbuk Monastery near Everest Base Camp. 15 Rest day at Jarongbuk and visit to Everest Base Camp (5200m). 16 Cycle over the Nam La (5100m) and down to Tingri. 17 Ride the passes of Lalung La (4950m) and Yarle Shung La (5200m) and start the epic downhill towards Nepal! 18 Cross the border into Nepal and continue on down towards the Kathmandu Valley. 19 Ride through Kathmandu Valley to Kathmandu. 20 End Kathmandu.

Mode of travel: Average daily distance: 85 km (52m)No. of days cycling: 14 Vehicle Support: 100%Terrain and route: 75% tarmac, 25% unsurfaced. Extended periods at high altitude (av. 4000m). There are five high passes, all of which are optional. Lots of downhill, including 4600m over 3 days.
Group size: Normally min. 6 , max. 16, plus leader, driver and local guide.
Accommodation: 6 nights guest houses, 11 nights hotels, 2 nights camping. Near Everest Base Camp we stay in permanent tents, that are very spacious, and well equipped with dormitory style single beds, solid flooring and a central heating stove. The standard of accommodation in Tibet varies considerably, but can be basic at times.
Food: All breakfasts included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $621.25
Trip Reference: MCT
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.
Notes: Local Bike Hire: Trek or Giant mountain bikes with front suspension GBP175, paid on booking.
Trip Reference: MCT