Up early for flight to Linzhi—our first foray into Tibet. Linzhi is the eastern-most city of Tibet and one of its lowest at just over 3000m altitude. As part of our acclimatisation we take it super easy today. Unpack and check the bikes followed by an early dinner in town. Slow walk back to hotel and a few snaps with the locals, who are mostly wondering what we are going to do with our sleek road bikes. In bed as early as possible to maximise rest.

We leave Milin early morning and ride along the spectacular Yarlong River all the way to Langxian.
The Yarlong river is the upper stream of the Brahmaptura River (the fifth strongest in the world in terms of flow rate, supplying 30% of India's total water resources). Today we follow the raging river as it carves its way across the plateau, enjoying the breathtaking sights and perfect cycling road it leaves in its wake. There is hardly a vehicle or village in sight, so it's just you, the road and the river.

One final day beside the mighty Yarlong river. You'll notice the vegetation gradually change from lush pine forests to dry rocky cliff faces, and even some sand dunes. After lunch we ride on a brand new road probably up there with the best you've ever ridden on. Its twists and turns urge you to get out of the saddle and accelerate and the snowy peaks in the distance remind you you're riding in one of the highest places on earth.

Today we take a rest day off the bike to help with acclimatisation. Tomorrow is a big day in the saddle as we tackle the first major high pass. You need to be well rested before tackling it. We arrive in Lhasa late morning at our 5 star hotel. We take advantage of the free time in the afternoon to visit the Potala Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site and residence of the Dali Lama till 1959). Make sure you say a few words to the Cycling Buddha on your way out. Pray for strong legs and blue skies tomorrow!

Rise early and drive to Qushu where we start cycling up the mighty Khampa-la high pass (4780m). At the top you'll be greeted by dramatic views of the turquoise blue waters of Yamdrok-tso lake, before enjoying a flowing descent down to the shores of the lake.
The second half of the ride hugs the shore and takes you through some picturesque mountain villages, all with the head wind from hell. The ride is short today but tough.
Today's riding ends in Nagartse where we enjoy a delicious Nepali style lunch before resting at the Hotel.

Rise early and start climbing along the road to Gyantse. We have one high pass to conquer—the Kalurong Pass (4950m). You'll really notice the change in the scenery today. It'll be hard to imagine it was just a few days ago you were riding in lush green surroundings.
Today's road travels by the Karola Glacier before dipping down into a majestic valley. It's one of the most scenic days of riding on the trip.
Our destination hotel in Gyantse is oozing with so much old world charm you won't want to leave.

Rise early and visit the local Palchoi monastery and authentic old quarters. Then it's 98km along the mostly flat road to Shigatse. We will pass through rolling farmlands and villages and stop mid-way for some snacks and a visit to the local barley mill. The last climb over the bridge into town is a hotly contested KOM. We are riding at 4000m today–the air is thin which means fast speeds on the flat.
We should arrive at Shigatse for a late lunch by about 2-3pm. Rest & relax in your hotel or visit the peaceful Tashilungpo monastery, seat of the Panchen lama (optional).

We drive out of Shigatze to our lunch stop at Lhatse. From here we start riding. Today is one of the hardest days of the trip—we ride to the highest pass on the trip at 5181m. After a brief stop at the top to catch our breath and grab some supplies its downhill all the way to Tingri. We ride beside a picturesque river most of the way to our destination and if the sky is clear you'll get your first glimpse of Everest.

After passing through a strict military checkpoint outside of Tingri we will start riding the huge pass that takes us into Everest Base Camp in the dark. The road is new and affords magnificent views of Everest at the top. After another long descent and climb you'll reach Everest Base Camp for lunch.
The whole day we ride above 4200m and twice climb up above 5000m. Only a total of 1640m of climbing but at this altitude it really takes a toll. Expect to be exhausted and exhilarated by the time you reach Everest Base Camp You'll have plenty of time to enjoy the magnificent views on the world's highest mountain. After lunch we drive back down the road to Lhatse.

A transit day travelling back to Lhasa via the alternate route. We stop by a delicious dumpling restaurant for breakfast and arrive in Lhasa with enough time for shopping and another stroll around the Barkhor Pilgrim circuit at sunset with what seems like half of Lhasa. After dinner its time to hit the Tibetan clubs and sink a few hard earned beers with the local Tibetan cowboys and cowgirls.

After a sleep in and lazy breakfast we hop on the bikes for one last farewell ride. Our local guides will take us through the city and up one last climb on the outskirts of the city. Expect a race to the top.
Celebration dinner – you deserve it !

Time to say goodbye.
-The end of tour-

Please Note: While we plan to follow the itinerary as much as possible, weather, trail conditions, river crossings, and other circumstances may force us to alter the itinerary in this remote and relatively untraveled region.