Expert: Nilesh Korgaokar - 3/29/2009

Question
Hi was just wondering whether you could advise me on the possibility of doing this ride unsupported by a tour company? (I would be doing it with fellow experienced bike riders)
not sure if this can be done legally due to recent restriction on travel in Tibet by Chinese government. Was hoping to do this during early November not sure if it will be cold and or wet during this time.
Thanks for your help
mark

Answer
Hello Mark,

I'm sure that it can be done but I suspect that the formalities for it would be too long winding - going thru the various governments etc. Therefore, I must admit that I do not have the information that you are seeking. November is certainly too cold for this and I would imagine that the passes would be closed for road travel. The best season for it would be in the peak of summer from May to July at the best.

I have seen bikers on this route when I did the journey by road (by bus and a tour operator) in 1996. But I don't know how the bikers got permission etc. You are right that at the present moment the Chinese have put a ban on all travel to Tibet. God knows when they will lift this ban.

Hope this helps.
Nilesh.