The beautiful and sacred snowy plateau is a dream destination for many, and cycling into Tibet along China’s most scenic highway—the Sichuan-Tibet Highway—has become the top choice for numerous cycling enthusiasts. Nowadays, as the weather gradually warms up, the number of cyclists heading to Tibet is increasing steadily.

       Experienced cyclist Ma Lei shares his tips for cycling into Tibet

       ◆ Before setting off, it’s essential to get in good physical shape. Bear in mind that without a solid fitness base, cycling to Tibet is simply out of the question. Also, be prepared to endure hardship, as the journey is a major test of endurance. Most importantly, adopt a “safety first” mindset. Before departure, thoroughly check your gear, and it’s highly recommended to wear a cycling helmet throughout the trip to protect yourself.

       ◆ While cycling, maintain control over your speed, especially on downhill sections. Downhill speeds should be kept under 40 km/h. Most accidents on the Sichuan-Tibet Highway occur due to excessive speed downhill, leading to loss of braking control and resulting in rollovers. It’s advisable to take short breaks during long, continuous descents; otherwise, your grip on the handlebars may weaken.

       ◆ Keep a safe distance from the cyclist ahead to avoid rear-end collisions. Avoid riding side by side; maintaining a staggered formation enhances safety. Never ride against traffic—the road conditions on the Sichuan-Tibet Highway are poor and the road is narrow, making head-on cycling extremely dangerous.

       ◆ During the ride, you’ll cross multiple high-altitude mountain passes over 4,000 meters, so always be vigilant against altitude sickness. To cope with altitude sickness, first and foremost, stay calm, and bring medication such as Rhodiola rosea. Additionally, if you experience strong symptoms, try drinking some butter tea at local teahouses to alleviate the effects.

       ◆ Take care to protect your valuables and look after your bicycle. When passing through areas with very few people, it’s best to travel with companions. In case of emergencies, avoid using force and instead seek help from local authorities afterward.

       ◆ Consider taking short rides as a supplement when necessary. The cycling journey is tough—always know your limits and never push yourself beyond what’s reasonable. When you’re physically exhausted or face insurmountable challenges, it’s wise to take a short ride.

       ◆ Respect the customs and traditions of Tibetan people. The Sichuan-Tibet Highway runs through Tibetan regions where cultural norms and practices differ from inland areas. Respecting local customs helps avoid misunderstandings and unnecessary trouble.