Lhasa to Kathmandu


The classic trans-Himalayan trade route is a long and demanding ride on a road which is certainly amongst the contenders for the title of "the world's wildest highway"

Flying to Lhasa gives you time to get acclimatized on the worlds highest Capitol at 3,600 meter altitude. There is much to see in and around Lhasa, including the stunning Potala Palace, the Jorkhang Temple, and the largest of the Tibetan markets at Barkor. A couple of short, easy bike rides around Lhasa will assist with the group's acclimatisation, and will allow to visit some of the many interesting temples and other religious sites.

Throughout this trip, the group will have vehicle support, and there will undoubtedly be times when all of the bikes have to be transported to the top of the next pass, in order to keep to the ambitious schedule as per the Itinerary.

There are six major passes to be negotiated on the main Lhasa to Kathmandu route as it runs southwards, parallel to the Great Himalayan chain which forms the border with the territories of Bhutan, Sikkim and Nepal. On the entire trip the road traverses a high and dry plateau-land, which is punctuated, by the unforgettable monastery towns of Gyantse, Shigatse and Shegar, and also by several smaller settlements and nomadic Drogpa encampments.