Tibet Cycling Tour

1. When is the best time to take a cycling tour in Tibet?

The best time to take a Tibet cycling tour is normally in the spring and autumn seasons, which run from April to June and late September to November.

The spring is one of the most stunning times to travel to Tibet, as the new growth after the cold harsh winter is blooming through, and the landscapes appear to be fresh and revived. The skies are also clear and bright, and while it is not yet hot, it is pleasant enough for cycling, although it can get a little colder at night still.

Autumn is also an ideal time, as the landscape is still lush and green from the summer rains, and the weather is cooling down, though it can still be a little humid in early October.

In late October, the leaves change color and start to fall, covering the ground with a rustic-colored carpet. The temperatures are mild and comfortable until the end of November, and there is very little chance of rain or snow.

2. What is the fitness demand for a Tibet Cycling Tour?

For some of the cycling tours of Tibet, you do not need a high level of fitness, but must be able to cycle for at least 50-100 kilometers a day.

Most Tibet cycling tours start at a moderate level, which requires you to be of an average level of fitness.

For some of the longer and more arduous tours, a higher degree of fitness is required, as cycling at high altitudes up the sides of mountains can be exhausting, and can induce altitude sickness if you are not suitably fit and properly acclimatized.

Fitness demand of Popular Tibet Bike Tours

Easy: Lhasa Ganden Monastery Bike Tour
Moderate: Lhasa to Namtse Lake Bike Tour
Moderate to Strenous: Lhasa to Kathmandu Bike Tour
Strenous: Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Bike Tour

3. How to avoid altitude sickness when taking a cycling tour in Tibet?

The first thing to do is to acclimatize for a couple of days in Lhasa before you head out on the cycling tour. This allows your body time to adjust to the higher altitude, and reduces the risk of altitude sickness once you start the tour.

You should also remember the adage on altitude, and always sleep lower than you have reached that day. Always drop down a few hundred feet before stopping for the night, as it helps to keep altitude sickness at bay.

You should also not ascend to fast or too high, and around 500 meters per day is a good average.

4. What to carry while we ride?

Your main pack with your food and clothing, etc., can be carried by the support vehicle, which is required for all international cyclists touring in Tibet.

However, you will want to carry some things with you, for the daily needs while you are riding.

It is essential to carry water on your bike, as well as some food as snacks while you are riding, to help keep your energy levels up.

You should also carry a light sweater to put on when you stop for a break or for sightseeing, as you can cool down quickly once you are stopped.