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22 Days Cycling from Lijiang, Yunnan to Lhasa, Tibet

Tour Route: Lijiang-Shangari-la-Markham-Zuogong-Basu-Ranwu-Bomi-Tongmai-Lulang-Bayi-Lhasa

Trip Overview:

If you’re angling for astonishing scenic beauty, wild mountainous adventures, riveting displays of ethnic culture and the irresistible allure of the immense outdoors, this tour is right for you. Start in Lijiang, a fairyland blessed with fresh air, clear streams, breathtaking snow mountains and an undisturbed landscape inhabited by a friendly group of people, this bike tour ends in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet and a holy city you could never miss. This expedition is more demanding because of the mountainous terrains of northeastern Yunnan but the stunning scenery will make up for it. Everything you expect is included in this tour: unique culture and folklore, astonishing landscapes, off-the-beaten track getaways, and a rich and abundant ethnic backdrop.
 

  • Tour Code: TTO-BT-LL-22

  • Trip Level:

  • Tour Type: Private tour with private guide and vehicle

  • Time to Visit:

Highlights:

  • Ultimate mountain bike holiday from Yunnan to Tibet
  • Hugely rewarding Tibetan cycling journey
  • Fabulous views along the journey
  • A worthy challenge for one’s physical and mental strength

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Ride to Tiger Leaping Gorge from Lijiang

Set off from the ancient Town of Lijiang today, cycle to the Tiger Leaping Gorge, passing by the First Bend of the Yangtze River. In the remaining time, you could explore the 18-kilometer (11-mile) gorge on foot.

Day 2: Cycle to Shangari-La

Cycle out of the gorg, visit the White Water Terrace and then continue the journey to Shangri-La over several mountains. En route, pay a visit to the Bitahai Lake. Fed by small streams from the snow mountains encircled, the lake shapes just like a trumpet shell. In the color of azure with snowy mountains and trees reflecting in it, the gorgeous lake is a wonderland to appreciate the beauty of nature. Optional for you to visit the Guihua Temple.

Day 3: Shangari-la Sightseeing

Begin this morning with a visit to the biggest Tibetan Buddhist Temple in Yunnan, Songzanlin Temple. This temple collects the elite of Tibetan religious culture and presents splendid architecture. Because of its similar appearance and layout to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, it is also reputed as 'small Potala Palace'.

Then, you will travel to Shudu Lake, the lake of beauty and peacefulness. The plants around the lake are lush and the wild animals are various.

Day 4: Ride to Benzilan County

Take a 82-kilometer journey to a division spot called Benzilan. Travel along the river but not cross the bridge, otherwise you will ride to Derong of Sichuan Province.

Day 5: Continue to Feilai Temple

Start from Benzilan to Deqin and then stop at the Feilai Temple by taking the Yunnan-Tibet Road, which is also known as the No.214 National Highway. The snowy scenic on the way is amazing.

Day 6: Felai Temple-Yanjiang

Set off early today, get to Yanjing of Tibet, which is located on the bank of the Lancang River. In the remaining time in Yanjing, you could visit the only Catholic Church in Tibet.

Day 7: Yanjing-Markham

Head to Markham which is an important transportation hub to other parts of Tibet. The journey is about 110 kilometers (68 miles) but this road always suffers collapse in rainy season, so caution is advised.

Markham is at the junction of roads to Sichuan, Yunnan and Tibet provinces. It is the first county where you can have a lodge in the hostel and appreciate a warm meal after you enter in Tibet. It is located 1 kilometer away from the National Highway 318, you can overnight in the local Weather Bureau rest house to take a bath and prepare for the Tibet part bicycle tour.

Day 8: Markham - Dengba

Today's journey is cycling along the Langcang River.

For the first 12 kilometers, you will get over the Lawu Mountain Pass, and the following 33 kilometers are the downhill path, the elevation will decline by 1700 meters. Then get over Jueba mountain for about 24.5 kilometers and follow the downhill path for 13 kilometers to Dengba. As the trail along the Lancang River is extremely steep, you need to proceed with particular caution and prudence and control your brake tightly. It is really a test for your strength and will, but the visit of the pass-by Lancang Valley will be worthwhile. The Lancang Valley is the typical mountain-valley physiognomy and the exotic site will offer a comfort to your weary body.

Markham County (3875m) – Lawu Pass (4338m) – Chuka Bridge (2640m) – Jueba Pass (3930m) – Dengba Village (3440m)

Day 9: Dengba – Zuogong

Today, continue the uphill path road for 13 kilometers to Rongxu. The elevation will raise by 1900 meters totally. Keep cycling to get over mountains and proceed for 56.5 kilometers to reach Zuogong.

Most of this path is still dirty and dusty road. Upgrade for 24.5 kilometers to cross Dongda Mountain, and downgrade for 32 kilometers to Zuogong. Dongda Mountain is the highest pass in the whole route, where the altitude has reached 5100 meters, and the uphill path will be quite strenuous. The downhill road is gentle and you can have complete relax. Additional 10 kilometers bituminous macadam will lead you to Zuogong.

Dengba Village (3440m) – Rongxu Military Depot (4046m) – Dongda Pass (5008m) – Zuogong County (3877m)

Day 10: Zuogong - Bangda

Proceed for 105 kilometers to Bangda.

As the initial 63 kilometers are bituminous macadam, arrival at 3654 on the National Highway 318. And the following 42 kilometers are dusty road in poor condition with lots of uphill path. The exciting thing is that there is fiber in Bangda and you can make a call there. And cycling along with Yuqu River is enjoyable, too.

Zuogong County (3877m) – Tiantuo Town – Tiantuo Village – Asi Village – Bangda Town (4120m)

Day 11: Bangda - Basu

First cycle 75 kilometers from Bangda to Wadayue. Most of this part is still the dirty road.

The former 13.5 kilometers is the up slope to get over Yela Mountain, also named as Nujiang Mountain, such a trail is relatively in good condition. However the following 43 kilometers down slope path to Nujiang Bridge is indeed tough, with more than 50 sharp turnings of 180 degrees. This trail is often called "Nujiang 72 turnings" for its dangerous and zigzag path. Cover another 20 kilometers to Basu. This part of road seems good in the sunny day, but it will turn extremely terrible after rain.

Day 12: Basu - Ranwu

Bike 60 kilometers to Zhongsha at first. It is still the dusty and dirty road and mainly composed of uphill path. Then cycle 30 kilometers dusty road extending to Ranwu town, a paradise place with mirror-like lake, jade-green pines and snow-capped mountains in the distance. The first 7.5 kilometers gentle upgrading roads lead you to the Mt. Anjiula Pass, and the following 27 kilometers downgrading will lead you to fantastic Ranwu soon. You just need to ride for another 1 kilometer to reach Ranwu lake from the Ran-Cha highway to appreciate the dream-like scenery there.

Basu County (3280m) – Anjiula Pass (4475m) – Ranwu Town (3960m)

Day 13: Ranwu - Bomi

Today, bid fare well to Ranwu and continue to ride for Zhongba, which is 53 kilometers away. Proceed along the tempered declivous path, and have a brief visit of Anmucuo and Palong Tsangpu River. As most of this path, you will go through the forestry area and linger in the mist and clouds between mountains. Continue to the relevantly big town Bomi for 76 kilometers. The dirt road stretches for 36 kilometers until Songzong and the following 40 kilometers is the bituminous macadam as gentle down slope. Plenty of Glaciers will catch your eyes on the way.

Ranwu Town (3960m) – Midui Glacier – Zhongba Village (3330m) – Bomi County (2725m)

Day 14: Bomi - Tongmai

Today is an arduous cycling day leading you to Tongmai, covering about 90 kilometers. 40 kilometers declivous path guides you to Guxiang bituminous macadam and the following 50 kilometers path will not cost you lots of strength and energy. However, it comes to be atrocious when you close to Tongmai.

Bomi County (2725m) – Guxiang – 102 landslide area – Tongmai Town (2070m)

Day 15: Tongmai - Lulang

Go cross Dongjiu for the first 37 kilometers and continue to Lulang Town for 37 kilometers more.

When you reach Pailong, 17 kilometers from Tongmai, you will see the wreckage of Yigonghe River flood collapse, and the present path is new- repaired. The slope is still barrier and bold and you can see the trace after flood. The trail from Tongmai to Pailong is in well condition. Then continue for 37 kilometers after the forest ecological system orientation and the pass-by sight just looks like tropical rain forest. Try the delicious food of Lulang Chicken Soup cooked by stone pot.

Tongmai Town (2070m) – Laohu Zui – Pailong country – Layue Village (2372m) – Dongjiu country (2560m) – Lulang Town (3370m)

Day 16: Lulang - Bayi

It will be a fatigued but rewarding day for 72.5 kilometers and arrive in Bayi

You will get over Sejila Mountain for 23.5 kilometers. Sightseeing Terrace for the sea of Lulang forests is 19km away from Lulang Town. The National Highway 110 gently upgrades and you need to push you bicycle to surmount Sejila Mountain. The latter 30 kilometers path to Nyingtri is steep and in poor condition. There are approximately 19 kilometers from Nyingtri to Bayi, and as it is the even bituminous macadam. The Niyangqu and poplars dotted in emerald green constitute picturesque scenery. The Huge Cypress Park is situated near Bayi roadside. You can find a hostel to have a rest and take a shower easily in Bayi Town.

Lulang Town (3370m) – Sejila Pass (4559m) – Nyingchi Town (3010m) – Bayi Town (2930m)

Day 17: Bayi - Gongbo'gyamda

You will enjoy the ease to ride on the bituminous macadam. The verdant mountains and green waters will feast you eyes all along the way and you will cover 127 kilometers arrival in Gongbo'gyamda without awareness.

Bayi Town (2930m) – Gengzhang Town – Baiba Town – Gongbo'gyamda County (3440m)

Day 18: Gongbo'gyamda - Songduo

Continue to ride on the bituminous macadam for 96 kilometers to Songduo and mainly composed of uphill path. Songduo is the only small town with room and board between Gongbu pass and Mila Pass.

Gongbo'gyamda County (3440m) – Jinda Town – Jiaxing country – Songduo country (4288m))

Day 19: Songduo - Lhasa

Ride from Songduo to Mozhugongka for 110 kilometers.

The first 20 kilometers is the tempered uphill bituminous macadam, but you need to push your bicycle to the second highest pass, Mila Pass (5030m), along Sichuan – Tibet Highway. Then continue for 27 kilometers to Riduo on the bituminous macadam and head for Mozhugongka for another 56 kilometers. The head to your final destination - Lhasa. The last period is approximately 68 kilometers bituminous macadam. You will see the lofty Potala Palace in distance, as you enter in the Lhasa Forestry checkpoint. The challenging tour ends here and you might feel as comfortable as home at that moment.

Songduo country (4288m) – Mila Pass (5013m) – Riduo country (4370m) –Mozhugongka County (3830m) – Datse County (3440m) – Lhasa City (3650m)

Day 20: Lhasa sightseeing

After breakfast, we go to the Potala Palace, a golden feather upon the roof of the world, which Tibetans proudly claim to be the prime miracle since the creation of this world. With the golden roof shinning in the sun, it is visible from any distance. You can spend one hour wondering around the inside of this magnificent building and exploring the rooms previously used by the Dalai Lama and many Buddhist icons within.

In the afternoon we go inside of the Jokhang. Then stroll around the back alleys of the Barkhor area of Old Lhasa. The streets smelled of yak butter and incense while hordes of pilgrims shuffled along the main Kora (circumambulations) around Jokhang Temple. If someone just walked at a normal pace, one kora would take about 15-20 minutes.

Day 21: Drepung and Sera Monastery

In the morning have a tour for Drepung, the ever largest monastery with more than 10 thousand monks. Buddhist debates often occur there. Seen from afar, its grand, white construction gives the monastery the appearance of a heap of rice. As such, it was given its name which, in the Tibetan language, means Monastery of Collecting-Rice. Learn about the lives of Tibetan monks there.

You can spend the afternoon touring Sera Monastery and have a little hike for the beautiful valley scenery nearby and picnic there. Sera monastery was created in 1419 and has always been an important Buddhist seminary. As rose are planted everywhere in the monastery, it is also called “the court of wild rose”. Today still 200 lamas live in there. Catch the famous debate session of the monks before returning back to Lhasa.

Day 22: finish this unforgettable tour

Free time at your disposal this morning, explore the bustling markets of the Barkhor to buy some souvenirs for your families and friends. After lunch, departure transfer to see off, tour services end and Tibet welcome you back forever. Alternatively, should you wish to stay on rather than return home right away, you could contact us and choose our other City Packages as an extension to your memorable adventure!

What’s included?

1.Tibet Entry Permit

2. Comfortable, clean and safe vehicle depending on your group size with reliable local driver;

3. Admission fees of tourist sites listed in the itinerary;

4. Professional English speaking tour guide;

5. Accommodations depend on your preference. Please tell us your preferred accommodation class when submitting the enquiry, and we will arrange the best-value hotels for you.

6.All measl listed in the itinerary;

7.Tourist Accident/Casualty Insurance

What’s not included?

1. International flight to and out of China;

2. Chinese Visa

3. Domestic flight / train not listed in the itinerary (If you need ticket booking service, please leave your requirements in the Online Inruiry form.)

4.Meals not specified in the itinerary;

5.Tips to driver and tour guide, Tip as you wish

6.Personal expenses, such as laundry, phone call, optional tour activities and so on.

Trip Notes

  • 1. How to Get the Tibet Travel Permit?

    The Tibet Travel Permit is essential for any Tibet tour. We help to obtain this permit free of charge when you book your Tibet tour through us. Simply send us copies of your passport and China visa at least 20 days in advance. Once we receive your documents, we will promptly process the permit application with the Tibet Tourism Bureau. After obtaining your permit, we will notify you and send it to your hotel in mainland China.

    In exceptional cases, our staff can personally deliver the permit to you at the airport or railway station. With years of experience in handling Tibet Travel Permit, we assure you a smooth visit to Tibet by ensuring the acquisition of your permit.

  • 2. Where to Stay in Tibet?

    Accommodation facilities and services in Tibet might not match those found in the coastal and central parts of China. However, there's a diverse range of hotel options available. However, you can choose from a wide range of hotel options. In big cities like Lhasa and Shigatse, from cheap and clean youth hostels to distinct Tibetan-style 3-star and international 5-star luxury hotels, you will find one that suits your interests and budget.

    As you travel to remote areas of Tibet, such as EBC and the Mount Kailash region, the accommodations tend to be more basic. Some may have air-conditioning in the hotel, while others may only offer electric blankets in the guesthouses. Nonetheless, we always handpick cozy and safe accommodations for you along your itinerary in Tibet, ensuring a pleasant night's stay for your Tibet tour.

  • 3. How about the Guiding and Tipping in Tibet?

    Our English-speaking guides are natives of Tibet with good knowledge of Tibetan culture, history, and Buddhism. Most are trained to offer Western-standard service. Throughout your stay in Tibet, we will monitor your health and provide prompt assistance to you. If you encounter any trouble, please do not hesitate to contact them or our customer service manager.

    Travelers' tipping to Tibetan guides and drivers is seen as extra gratitude for their excellent service, much like what you do in the West. Normally, a tipping amount of 7 USD per day is acceptable. The basic principle is rewarding good service with fair pay.

  • 4. How are the Toilets in Tibet?

    Undoubtedly, for many Western tourists, using toilets in Tibet can be a challenging experience. Therefore, it's advisable to moderate your expectations. If you travel to Lhasa by Tibet train, both western-style and squat toilets are available onboard. Staying in hotels rated above 3 stars in cities like Lhasa and Shigatse ensures access to standard Western flush toilets, eliminating any discomfort.

    However, when visiting attractions like Yamdrok or Namtso or outdoor sites like EBC, you're likely to encounter smelly and unclean pit toilets. It's recommended to carry sufficient toilet paper for such occasions.

  • 5. How is the Weather in Tibet? What to Pack for Visiting Tibet?

    One of the notable weather features on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is the significant temperature fluctuation between day and night. In Lhasa, the annual temperatures range from -2℃ to 12℃ (spring), 9℃ to 22℃ (summer), 7℃ to 19℃ (fall), and -7℃ to 9℃ (winter). Ensure proper clothing, such as thermal tops, a fleece jacket, breathable underwear, a down jacket, jeans, a beanie, and other essentials.

    Moreover, essentials like sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses are crucial to shield yourself from the intense, blinding sunlight of the plateau. Staying hydrated by drinking more water and including vegetables in your diet is advisable to prevent dehydration during your travels in Tibet.

  • 6. How to Prevent from Altitude Sickness in Tibet?

    For first-time visitors to Tibet, whether arriving by flight or train, allowing ample rest is crucial for quick acclimation to the high altitude in Lhasa. Avoid rushing to explore the streets or attractions independently. Walk at a slower pace and refrain from exerting yourself by running or jumping. Spending at least two days in Lhasa before venturing to places like Shigatse or Namtso allows for better acclimatization. If you experience any discomfort, inform your guide, and they will assist you.

  • 7. Are There some Dos and Don'ts while Touring Tibet?

    Photography is generally prohibited in monasteries. If you wish to capture images of Tibetan pilgrims, kindly seek their permission or maintain a considerable distance while taking photos. Swimming and fishing are prohibited in the sacred lakes of Tibet. Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics. According to policy, international tourists are not permitted to travel alone in Tibet.

    While navigating Barkhor Street, adhere to the custom of walking clockwise. Refrain from exploring unfamiliar trails. Take proactive steps to preserve Tibet's delicate ecosystem.

    Given that Tibetan Buddhism profoundly influences the lives of Tibetans, always show reverence and respect for their unique customs. If uncertain about any practice, it's advisable to seek guidance from your tour guide before proceeding.

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  • Explore Mount Kailash

    Authentic Exploration of Tibet's Rich Culture

    Discover the real Tibet with us! We're dedicated to showing its true spirit and exploring its lively culture. Our aim is to give you an authentic experience, sharing the beauty and richness of Tibetan traditions. Come along for a journey deep into the heart of Tibet!

  • Leisurely explore Lake Yamdrok

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What Our Customers Say

  • Once in a life time

    14 days from Beijing to Tibet and Nepal. The reality was beyond my expectations. A trip that I will remember for the rest of my life. The trip was arranged in an exceptional way! Laura Tang did an amazing job! She responded to all my questions immediately, she supported and solved any problems very quickly. The hotels she arranged for me were amazing!! ...More reviews

    Jan 2023 nico k
  • Nice view in winter!

    The view was magnificent. got to see snow and snow capped mountains. Thanks to Gemma Wei for helping with all the planning. Also thanks to Kunchok and Tsering for going accomodating to my needs as i was not used to the altitude. They also helped alot with the trek up the hills! ...More reviews

    Dec 2023 Benjamin X
  • Tibet is beautiful

    The tour was great! We visited amazing places and could feel the sacred atmosphere in all the temples. The nature is breathtaking with beautiful mountain and lake views. Our guide Jingme told us all about the history and showed us great places. All the hotels were much better than what I expected...More reviews

    Nov 2023 Krisyna H
  • Unforgettable Experience

    The 8-day trip with Tibet Vista was remarkable, combining cultural depth with stunning Tibetan landscapes. Our guide Jig Me was really knowledgable, the journey well-organized, and each destination, especially Everest Base Camp, was a highlight. Great value; highly recommended...More reviews

    Nov 2023 George J
  • FANTASTIC!

    Visiting Tibet with Tibet Visa agency is a once in a life time experience! They take care of everything and you just need to enjoy! Our tour guide was AMAZING...More reviews

    Nov 2023 Alberto
  • Exploring Tibetan culture

    Tibet vista made the entry process into Tibet super easy. Jing mei our guide had a wealth of knowledge about all the locations we visited and happily answered questions we had. Also organising a birthday cake for one of the guests showed how thoughtful he was...More reviews

    Nov 2023 Dylan P
  • Lhasa to Kathmandu

    Can't recommend this company enough. We did it very last minute and got our Chinese visas a few days before we flew to Chengdu and got the train to Lhasa. Lycoris our contact was patient and reassuring over the applications. The trip itself was something else...More reviews

    Nov 2023 philgiles
  • Private tour with guide and driver… wow!

    After much research, my wife gave the desired itinerary to the agency rep that she was working with. It covered a huge area from Lhasa all the way West to the Ali area and back along a Northern route. Of course having a private driver and Land Cruiser along with a very experienced guide, the trip was just fantastic... More reviews

    Oct 2023 howardxp1
  • Best trip I have ever had

    I just arrived home this morning after a one-month trip in India, Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan. I have travelled a lot in my life but this trip is the best trip I have ever had. It really stands out by its geographic particularity, historical and cultural knowledge and most of all, its emotional/spiritual impact...More reviews

    Sep 2023 hptranle
  • Unforgetable Tibet

    The trip was great, the view was amazing. Our tour guide, Gijme, is very professional and very knowledgeable about the sites and the history...More reviews

    Sep 2023 Deby Wahyuning H

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