Take China Group Tours in 2025 to enjoy 30% discount compared to a private tour. Same Experience & Lowest Price!
Tibet Biking Route 1: Lhasa to EBC (Hottest)
- Altitude gain in cycling: 3,650 - 5,250 meters
- Total cycling distance (round trip): 710 km
- Route: Lhasa (3,650m) - Khangbala Village (4,000m) - Langkazi (4,470m) - Gyantse (4,020m) - Shigatse (3,650m) - Jiding Town (3,880m) - Lhatse (4,020m) - Pelba - Tashizong Village - EBC (5,200m)
- Ideal travel time: 15 Days
| Tibet MTB Itinerary | What to See | Fatigue Level |
|---|---|---|
| Lhasa - The first three days | Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery | Get used to altitude. |
| Ride from Lhasa to EBC - From day 4 to day 12 | Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier, Pelkor Monastery, Everest Base Camp, etc. | High - Multiple high mountain passes to cross. |
The Lhasa to Everest Base Camp (EBC) cycling route is a Tibetan classic, drawing cyclists from around the globe. So I tried this cycle route first.
Actually, this Tibet trail MTB from Lhasa to EBC is a true test of body and spirit.
What to See While Biking?
Riding a bicycle from Lhasa to EBC, on a clear day, you will enjoy the pearl of southern Tibet (Xizang), Yamdrok Lake, the Karola Glacier with glaciers extending from the top of the mountain to the mountainside, and the Pelkor Monastery which integrates the essence of Tibetan Buddhism.
Then prepare to conquer multiple passes soaring above 5,000 meters (the main challenge), including the renowned Gyawu La Pass.
From this vantage point, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of four majestic 8,000-meter giants - Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu - a humbling reminder of nature's power.
The route to Everest Base Camp is mostly paved, but expect rough gravel and dirt sections closer to the end, increasing the difficulty of the ride.
Reaching EBC, you'll be rewarded with an unparalleled view of Mount Everest, standing tall and proud. The sense of accomplishment from your arduous journey will be immense, making all the effort worthwhile.
Temples, lakes, snow-capped mountains - this route has it all! It's an incredibly beautiful journey, and I can't recommend it enough.
Tibet Cycling Route 2: Lhasa to Namtso Lake (Holy Lake Trip)
- Altitude gain in cycling: 3,650 - 5,190 meters
- Total cycling distance (round trip): 440 km
- Route: Lhasa (3,650m) - foot of Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains (7,162m) - Damxung County (4,300m) - Laken La Pass (5,190m) - Namtso Lake (4,730m)
- Ideal travel time: 8 Days
| Tibet MTB Itinerary | What to See | Fatigue Level |
|---|---|---|
| Lhasa - The first five days | Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery | Not fatigued and well-acclimatized to altitude. |
| Ride from Lhasa to Namtso - From day 4 to day 7 | Damxung, Laken La Pass, Namtso Lake, Yampachen Hot Spring, Tsurphu Monastery. | Mid - I was a little tired on the first day, but I didn't need a long time to recover. |
The Lhasa to Namtso Lake cycling route, though shorter and less intensely demanding than the Everest biking, is no less a trial of strength and spirit. If you're interested in visiting a sacred lake but don't want to cycle for too long, I would recommend this route.
What to See While Cycling?
Your journey will ride the Qinghai-Tibet Highway to take you over the ride's highest point, the Laken La Pass (5190 meters), where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the revered Nyenchen Tanglha range and the divine Namtso Lake.
The Lhasa to Namtso cycling route offers stunning scenery on clear days. Road conditions are generally good, with mostly paved roads, and a few bumps near Namtso Lake.
After arriving at Namtso Lake, the deep blue water will definitely make you feel that all the effort was worth it. On the way back, relax your muscles in the hot springs at Yampachen.
Tibet MTB Route 3: Lhasa to Ganden Monastery (Pilgrimage Journey)
- Altitude gain in cycling: 3,650 - 4,285 meters
- Total cycling distance (round trip): 112 km
- Route: Lhasa (3,650m) - Lhasa Bridge - Dazi Bridge - foot of Mount Wangbur - Ganden Monastery (3,800m)
- Ideal travel time: 6 Days
| Tibet MTB Itinerary | What to See | Fatigue Level |
|---|---|---|
| Lhasa - The first three days | Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery | Adjust to the altitude before anything else. |
| Ride from Lhasa to Namtso - From day 4 to day 5 | Lhasa River, Lhasa River valley, Mount Wangbur, Taji Village, Ganden Monastery. | Low - I felt some fatigue, but it was manageable and I recovered quickly. |
Cycling to Ganden Monastery is another popular mountain biking destination in Tibet (Xizang). This is the shortest cycling route. I think it is perfect for anyone interested in Tibetan temples and wanting an easy ride.
What to See While Cycling?
Along China's most beautiful national highway, G318, you'll pass over bridges, through valleys, and all the while, yaks, poplar forests, villages, stupas, and fellow cyclists will accompany you.
This Tibet biking route is a pilgrimage journey experiencing Tibetan temple culture. The most difficult part of the ride is the initial uphill section. Most of the route is well-maintained asphalt road, but it turns into a simpler dirt road as you approach the temple.
At Ganden Monastery, you'll see colorful prayer flags, impressive temples, and beautiful valley views. These sights offer a sense of peace and tranquility. You can take a guided tour, visit a local family, and then cycle back to Lhasa.
Travel Tips for Mountain Biking Tibet
Is it possible to cycle to Tibet alone?
No, you can not plan a solo Tibet MTB. Foreign visitors must book Tibet bike tour through travel agencies authorized by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. Consult Asia Odyssey Travel Now –>>
What permits are required for cycling in Tibet, and how do I obtain them?
To travel to Tibet, you'll need a Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) in addition to your passport and visa.
Travel agencies like Asia Odyssey Travel can help you get the required permit. Just provide them with copies of your passport and Chinese visa about two weeks before your trip.
What is the best time for cycling in Tibet (Xizang)?
- April - October: This period is generally good for cycling.
- Summer (June - August): Rain is possible, but it usually stops quickly. The higher oxygen levels during this time can be beneficial for altitude acclimatization. However, rain might obscure views of Mount Everest.
- Winter (November - March): Not suitable for cycling due to icy roads and extreme cold.
How should I train for cycling at high altitude?
If you have a habit of exercising, such as running or swimming, that's even better. But don't worry if you don't.
Asia Odyssey Travel's experts will accompany you throughout the journey, and some necessary equipment like oxygen is already prepared.
What should I pack for a Tibet cycling trip?
Besides a mountain bike, basic cycling gear includes a helmet, cycling apparel, shoes, gloves, eyewear, a backpack, water bottle cage and bottle, and lights (front and rear).
Where can I stay along the cycling routes?
You can stay in the towns along the cycling route.
How do I get to Lhasa?
You can take an international flight to mainland China, then take a flight or train to Tibet.
How to Travel to Tibet from Mainland China? 3 Ways & 7 Gateways
How to Get to Tibet: Travel to Tibet from China/Nepal
What are the safety concerns for cycling in Tibet (Xizang)?
Altitude Sickness is something you must pay attention to. You can acclimate yourself in Lhasa first. I felt a bit dizzy when I first arrived in Lhasa. If you feel obviously unwell, stop cycling and don't take any risks.
How to Plan a Tibet Biking Trip for Foreign Cyclist?
Planning a smooth and safe Tibet cycling adventure? Let Asia Odyssey Travel take care of all the details, from permits and logistics to on-the-ground support.
As a Lhasa-based agency, we're your on-the-ground support system. Should you encounter any bumps in the road, or need assistance of any kind, our local team is just a call away, ensuring your peace of mind throughout your journey.
Why Choose Asia Odyssey Travel?
- Trusted by Tibet cyclists for over a decade.
- Expert English-speaking guides share their passion for Tibetan culture, enriching your journey.
- We prioritize your safety, ensuring a smooth and unforgettable ride.
Tibet's peak cycling season is almost here! Consult our Tibet expert today to start planning your dream trip.
Popular Tibet Cycling Itineraries:
Many cyclists choose our classic 15-day Lhasa to Everest Base Camp adventure. Experience the majesty of Mount Everest like never before, cycling through breathtaking landscapes instead of simply driving by.
Looking for a shorter trip? Consider these fantastic options:
- Namtso Lake (8 days): Discover the stunning beauty of this sacred lake near Lhasa.
- Ganden Monastery (6 days): Immerse yourself in the rich history and spirituality of this magnificent monastery.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tibet Biking
Q1. Can I bring my own bike?
Yes, you can bring your bike by air.
Q2. Can children go cycling in Tibet (Xizang)?
High-altitude cycling can be physically demanding for children, so it's best not to take them along.
Q3. What is the most popular cycling route in Tibet?
Lhasa to EBC is the most popular cycling route.
Q4. How do I prepare for the altitude?
- Aerobic exercise in advance before traveling to Tibet.
- Maintain good work and rest habits and don't stay up late.
- Take anti-high altitude reaction drugs, such as rhodiola rosea, in advance to reduce the symptoms of plateau reaction.
- Don't exercise strenuously after arriving in Tibet.
- Drink plenty of water, which can relieve high altitude reaction.
Q5. What are the potential weather challenges?
- Sudden rainy weather may cause slippery roads.
- High altitude areas with strong winds.
- Wide temperature difference between day and night in Tibet, you need to take good measures to keep warm.
- Thunder and lightning, especially in summer, avoid staying in open areas while riding.
Q6. Are there any cultural considerations when cycling in Tibet (Xizang)?
- Avoid littering in or near local people's homes and keep the environment tidy.
- Don't touch the head of local people freely, which is regarded as disrespectful in Tibetan culture.
- Do not disturb livestock when passing through villages or pastures.
- Keep quiet when encountering pilgrims or religious ceremonies during the ride.
Data in submission...
