Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Hazards
Cycling in Tibet is not to be taken lightly. Dogs are a major problem, especially in more re-
mote areas. Children have been known to throw stones at cyclists. Erratic driving is another
serious concern.
Wear a cycling helmet and lightweight leather gloves and, weather permitting, try to keep
as much of your body covered with protective clothing as possible. It goes without saying
that cyclists should also be prepared with a comprehensive medical kit.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Bus travel in Tibet is limited but most places visited by travellers are connected to some
sort of public transport. Unfortunately foreign travellers have not been permitted to take
public buses for many years now and the situation is not expected to change.
Only very basic public-transport information is included in this guide.
Hitching
Hitching is never entirely safe in any country, and we don't necessarily recommend it. Trav-
ellers who decide to hitch should understand that they are taking a small but potentially ser-
ious risk.
It goes without saying that if you are hitching in Tibet you are doing so because you de-
cided to forgo the permit-and-tour route (tsk! tsk!) and risk fines or expulsion by the Public
Security Bureau (PSB). At the moment, one of the biggest hurdles to hitching is simply get-
ting a ride. Drivers will be reluctant to pick you up because the authorities impose heavy
fines on anyone transporting foreign travellers and may even confiscate their licence.
If things do change, sometimes you can get a lift on a pilgrim truck or an organised pas-
senger truck. If you are headed out to fairly remote destinations you should be equipped to
camp out for the night if you don't get a ride. There are also plenty of half-empty 4WDs
heading down the Friendship Hwy to pick up a group, or returning after having dropped one
off.
Normally you will be expected to pay for your lift. The amount is entirely negotiable, but in
areas where traffic is minimal, drivers will often demand quite large sums.
It's a good idea to start hitching a few kilometres out of town because then you know that
traffic is going in your direction and is not about to turn off after 400m.
