Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China

Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China 21 days Overview

Tour Difficulty: 7/10 Challenging
Avg. Daily Distance: 70km (45 miles)
Off Road Cycling: 15%
Maximum Altitude: 4720m

Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China 21 days you cycle through Pakistan, China and Kyrgyzstan; a legendary cycle route through Central Asia. Experience the delights of Central Asia’s outstanding and varied natural beauty as you bicycle through these Asian nations and take on the challenge of cycling the world’s highest paved road. This is scenic cycling at its most stunning, with the chance to sample the contrasting cultures and lifestyles of northern Pakistan, western China and Kyrgyzstan.

On your cycle through Asia you can revel in the striking beauty of northern Pakistan’s snow-capped Karakoram mountain range (with its peaks at 7,000-8,000 metres), glacial river valleys, unstable black rocks and the world’s largest non-Polar glaciers. Then undertake the challenging two-day mountain bike to the summit of the 4,730 metre Khunjerab Pass.

The autonomous region of Xinjian Uyghur of Western China holds its own delights as you cycle along vast valley basins, past lakes, up mountain passes and camp in traditional summer yurts. There is also a chance to sightsee in Kashgar and visit the largest outdoor traders market in the world.

Last, but not least, is little known Kyrgyzstan with its distinctive wide plains and grass-clad mountains (90% of the country lies above 1,000 metres). Semi-nomadic horsemen and shepherds tend to their flocks as you pass by experiencing thrilling off-road cycling. You will see the second largest alpine lake in the world before finally discovering the delights of the country’s capital Bishkek.

Beyond the Himalayan Range lies the greatest concentration of mountain ranges in the world. Here we have a unique opportunity to experience astounding natural beauty and ancient cultures whilst enjoying some of the best riding in the world.

Day 1) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Islamabad – Gilgit

Arrive by Saturday 21st you should make sure you arrive by 6am on the Saturday morning. We will try to take a flight to Gilgit (included); this is ‘weather dependent’ with about one third of flights cancelled, some at the last moment. If this is the case we will go by coach. The flight is one of the most exciting in the world.

The small Fokker Friendship plane flies around Nanga Parba at 8,125m while the sharp triangle of K-2, the second highest mountain in the world, is clearly visible on the horizon. The pilot sometimes invites passengers into the cockpit to see some of Pakistan’s 82 peaks over 7,000m, which stretch, range after range, as far as the eye can see. On arrival in Gilgit we will be transferred to our hotel.

Gilgit Altitude 1,500m
(L, D)

Day 2) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Gilgit

We spend the day relaxing in Gilgit. You have the option of visiting the incredible seventh century Kargah Buddha – a three metre high statute carved half way up a cliff-face. A 10-minute walk from here is the Shuko, a Buddhist birch-bark text (now called the Gilgit manuscripts) that was found in 1931. The manuscripts are now divided among museums in London, Rome, Delhi and Karachi.

Gilgit Altitude 1,500m
Cycle distance 18 km (B)

Day 3) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Gilgit – Chirah

Today we set off on the bikes and cycle into the beautiful and remote Bagrote Valley which spans a distance of 25km and is a 43 km distance from Gilgit. Located at the heart of the Karakorum Mountains, it is surrounded by four Mountain Peaks: Rakapushi to the West, Dirn to the North, Popurash to the East and Dubani to the South East. The Bagrote river flows through the steep valley and merges with the Gilgit. The lower region of the valley has been likened to a lunar landscape and is in strong contrast to the upper valley.

We cycle up the narrow road to the summer pastures passing beautiful terraced fields and meadows. The crops and orchards are irrigated by water channels from the Barchi and Hinarchi glaciers and mountain snow. Ice from the glacier is transported to Gilgit as the town has no ice factory. Chirah is the final village along the track, with a view of Hinarche Glacier and a series of ridges culminating in the Diran Peak (7270m). Nagyr is on the other side. Tonight we will be camping.

Chirah Altitude 2,600m
Cycling distance 43km (B, L, D)

Day 4) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Chirah – Gilgit

This morning we visit a school which Red Spokes supports as part of a community initiative. We have a chance to meet families from the community. There is time to walk around and enjoy the view of the prominent Dobani peak and the Hinarche Glacier. After lunch we set off on the bikes. Our ride back to Gilgit is mainly downhill and a gentle trip compared with yesterday’s ascent up the valley. Back in Gilgit you will have time to look around, visit a tea shop or pick up some of the handicrafts for sale in the town.

Gilgit Altitude 1,500m
Cycle distance 43km (B, D)

Day 5) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Gilgit – Minapin

Setting off from Gilgit, we will make a short off road detour from the KKH to visit the home village of our guide Arman, we’ll stop here for lunch. As we rejoin the KKH the road climbs slowly, passing a few small villages, before we start to witness the huge spiral of Rakaposhi mountain looming in the distance. The road goes so close to its base that it is hidden most of the way. It is only when we arrive at our small family guesthouse at Manipin that we really witness the true beauty of Rakaposhi. Our accommodation for the night is situated in a beautiful tranquil orchard.

Manipin Altitude 2,030m
Cycle distance 82 km (B, L, D)

Day 6) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Minapin – Karimabad

The Karakoram highway (KKH) is at its most spectacular between Ghulmit and Gulmit. The road rides high on the eastern side of the river, twisting and turning around the barren foot of the Hispar Range, which boasts six peaks over 7,000 metres. On the opposite bank, villages cling implausibly to the side of the 7,388m Ultar Mountain.

Above, the jagged teeth along the ridge hide the highest snow-covered peaks from view. A short but spectacular day to Karimabad, the capital of Hunza.

Karimabad Altitude 2,400m
Cycle distance 32.8 km (B)

Day 7) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China June Karimabad

A rest day, but with so much to see in this enchanting village, it is unlikely that you will get much rest. Highlights are a visit to the 13th Century Baltit Fort or a visit to see the Sacred Rocks of Hunza. For the really adventuress amongst you a trek up to Hon will give you incredible views across the whole of the Nagar valley.

Karimabad Altitude: 2,400m
(B)

Day 8) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Karimabad – Passu

As we leave Karimabad the road drops down to the village of Ganesh before we begin a fairly hard 15 km climb. Remember that if at any time you have had enough, just wait around for the back-up vehicle. Due to the floods of 2010, a section of the KKH between the village of Gulmet, and Gulkin is now impassable and we will take a ferry here to continue along the route. This afternoon we cycle on a further 16 km to Passu. The road climbs with intermittent glimpses of glaciers, precipices and gleaming white peaks, before the 10 km descent to Passu, which brings us directly in front of the incredible Passu Glacier where we will stop for the night.

Passu Altitude 2,480m
Cycle distance 41 km (B)

Day 9) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Passu

Today we can rest and absorb the magic of this dramatic area, or take a guide and hike to Batura Glacier, said to be the world’s largest outside the Polar region (spanning 60 km). The Tupopdan Peak 6,106 metres (20,033 ft), also known as “Passu Cones” or “Passu Cathedral”, lies to the north of the village; it is the most photographed peak of the region. 5 KM from Passu, the views are breathtaking. For the brave there is a rather rickety bridge over Hunza River that you can cross. If you have a fear of heights and the water flow in the Hunza River is NOT too high, you might prefer walking in the river bed to cross and visit some of the villages located on the other side of the river .

Passu Altitude 2,480m (B)

Day 10) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Passu – Sust

We can make a late start this morning. Departing from our beautiful surroundings in the afternoon, we have a picturesque 39 km ride to the quiet and unremarkable border village of Sust. We can pick up any supplies we need here, before we cross over the border.

Sust Altitude: 2,865m
Cycle distance 39km (B, L, D)

Day 11) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Sust – Barkhum

The big one! Today we start a two-day climb to the top of the Khunjerab Pass. Altitude is the challenge here not distance. On our first day the road climbs 900 metres through deep gorges high above the Khunjerab River. Our camp is set up at Barkhum 35 km before the pass.

Barkhum Altitude 3,811m
Cycling distance 56 km (B, L, D)

Day 12) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Barkhum – Tashkurgan

We start after an early breakfast with a relatively easy 11 km climb and then the harder last 17 km of switch backs to the top of this 4,730 metre pass. It was only in 1986 that tourists were allowed to cross the Khunjerab Pass. It is the highest border in the world, separating not just two countries but two of the world’s major mountain ranges, the Pamir and the Karakoram. From the pass we have to transfer as a few years ago the Chinese decided not to allow cyclists along the 126 km to Tashkurgan.

Tashkurgan Altitude 3,085m
Cycle distance 28 km (B, L)

Day 13) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Tashkurgan – Kara Kul

Another fantastic day as we cycle to Kara Kul. This is a long and challenging day with some amazing views in probably the most spectacular part of western China. For the first 40 km there is a gentle incline as the road winds its way through the Tagharma basin, where you get the first views of the stunning north side of the Muztagh Ata Massif (Father of Ice Mountains. 7,546m high). Wind can be strong up here but usually it’s a tail wind. The road then gets steeper for the last 32km to the top of the 4,200 metre pass. Then it’s an exhilarating 30km blast downhill, providing the wind is blowing in the right direction!!! We finish the day with a 20 km flat ride to our camp by the lake. If we can arrange it we will stay in a Kyrgyz yurt.

Kara Kul Altitude 3,646m
Cycle distance 100 km (B, L)

Day 14) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Kara Kul – Kashgar

In the morning Tajik nomads can often be spotted in the area, their horses, yaks and Bactrian camels grazing around the lake. With the 7,546m high Mt Mustagh Ata and the 7,720m Mt Kongur in the background you’ll be in no hurry to leave. But what a day we have in front of us, as we enjoy a day of downhill riding dropping around 1,800m down the Ghez River canyon and through dramatic glacier mountains. From Ghez you have a choice to either transfer to Kashgar, or cycle the last 65 km – the road is flat but the head wind can be strong.

Kashgar Alt: 1,282m
Cycle distance 105 or 195 km (B, L)

Day 15) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Kashgar

A well deserved rest day and time for sightseeing. Kashgar was an important hub on the Old Silk Road; a vibrant Islamic centre positioned at the foot of the Pamir Mountains and commanding access to the high glacial passes of the Silk Road routes into Central Asia, India and Persia. On Sundays Kashgar hosts the most famous market in Central Asia so we will have chance to enjoy a lively, busy scene that defies its geographical remoteness with crowds flocking in to trade knives, hats, carpets, pots and pans, fresh fruit and vegetables, clothes and boots and every kind of domestic and agricultural appliance – often handmade. The colourful and exotic headgear is one of the features of the market. A short distance away is the Ulagh Bazaar, where traders sell their livestock, including horses, camels, cattle and sheep.

Kashgar Altitude: 1,282m

Day 16) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Kashgar – Tash Rabat

An early start as we transfer across the dramatic Torugart Pass (3,752m) into Kyrgyzstan. A short distance along the road after the visa formalities, we view the frozen lake Chatyr Kul before reaching Tash – Rabat. This small cluster of yurts is part of a well-developed network of Community Based Tourism (CBT) initiatives which have helped the local economy and gives travellers a great insight into a traditional way of life, unchanged over the centuries. We will be staying in communal yurts.

Tash – Rabat Altitude: 2,850m
(B, L, D)

Day 17) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Tash Rabat – Al Bashy

Before we leave we will have a chance to visit the 15th century stone caravanserai. It’s believed to be originally a Nestorian or Buddhist monastery dating back to the tenth century. Leaving Tash Rabat behind us, the lush green pastures and snow-capped mountains of the Tian Shan Mountains are a pleasant change from the red desert on the Chinese side of the border. We drop 700m before we reach today’s destination of Al Bashi.

Al Bashy Altitude: 2,145m
Cycle distance 86.8km (B, L, D)

Day 18) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Al Bashy – Bottom Dolon Pass

We begin the day with a relatively easy 27km climb up the Kyzyl Bel Pass (2,625m). Kyrgyzstan is probably the most beautiful of all the Central Asian countries. This is very much in evidence today as we cycle past small farming communities and nomadic shepherds. The road winds between red hills and eroded landscapes, the occasional vehicle will pass by during the 16 km descent towards the town of Naryn. The surface progressively deteriorates to a rutted, bumpy; gravely track making this a thriller ride. After a stop for lunch in Naryn, this afternoon we have long climb before we reach our campsite.

Outside Naren Altitude: 2,150m
Cycle distance 46km (B, L,D)

Day 19) Bottom Dolon Pass – Kochkor

This is a challenging day as we cycle over the Dolon Pass which at 3,035m is the highest pass we encounter in Kyrgyzstan. We end the day with a long downhill ride through a wide fertile valley that takes us to Kochkor, where we will stop for the night.

Kochkor Altitude: 1,815m
Cycle distance 92km (B, L)

Day 20) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Kochkor – Bishkek

Our last day’s cycle takes us to Issyk Kul, the second largest mountain lake in the world behind Lake Titicaca. With the Tian Shan Mountains as its backdrop, it’s a fantastic location to finish a wonderful ride. After lunch we will transfer to Bishkek, pack the bikes up, then spend time exploring this laid-back picturesque city.

Bishkek Altitude: 724m
Cycle distance 46km (B, L)

Day 21) Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Bishkek – Home

Sadly time to say goodbye to your new found friends and Cetnral Asia. An early morning transfer to the airport for the morning flights out or ask us about further travel options in the region.

Bishkek Altitude: 724m

Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China Inclusions:

Cycling support and grading

Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China all the time you will have the security of a back-up vehicle, either a jeep or truck. The vehicles will carry our entire luggage and you when needed. Our leaders carry a good tool kit and will help to fix any bike problems. However, we cannot guarantee that we will be equipped for all repairs, so you must ensure that your bike is in good working order before the tour. If in doubt, have it fully serviced by a bike shop before you travel.

This trip is designed for the experienced cyclist. The distances and gradient each day are not extreme, but the altitude and terrain make this a tough trip. Although you do not need to be an athlete, it pays to spend some time before the trip getting into the best shape possible. This will ensure you get the most from your holiday. We can send you specific training tips on request.

Baggage allowances and your bike
Your bike must be carried as a part of your luggage allowance and, to this end, we do ask you to make every effort to keep your total check-in baggage to an absolute minimum. The baggage allowance for most airlines for an economy-class ticket is 20kg per person; although a degree of flexibility is usually extended to groups and the check in staff may accept up to 26kg per person without imposing excess baggage charges.

Your bike (in its cardboard box) will weigh 15 to 18kg. So, that means you will have a small allowance for clothing, etc. You should carry small heavy items in your day pack / pannier which you can take onto the plane as hand luggage.

Your hand luggage is not included as a part of your overall allowance, as it is not weighed. Please inform your airline that you will be taking your bike on the flight, and attempt to make every effort to secure from the airline an additional baggage allowance – but this is not always granted. Although we cannot guarantee that there will not be excess baggage charges, this is something, which very rarely happens.



Getting there and away
Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China starts in Islamabad on Saturday 21st of September 2013 at 7am. If you decide to arrive before this date we can assist you in booking your accommodation and will organise a free transfer to your hotel. Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China price does not include your international flight.

The tour ends in Bishkek on Friday 11 October 2013 and therefore you will need to book an “open jaw” ticket that allows you to arrive in one destination and depart from another. We can assist with flight bookings simply ask. If you are flying home on Friday your transfer to the airport is included in the price. If you decide to stay in Kyrgyzstan beyond the last day of the tour we can help you organise extra accommodation and transfers to the airport if needed.

Equipment and bike stuff
Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China is suitable for most types of bicycles; however, please ensure that you bike is in good working order before you leave on tour. If you are not the most mechanically minded we suggest that you get your bike looked at by a professional bike mechanic. In particularly we would suggest looking and adjusting all wheel spokes, greasing all your bearings, checking your brakes/gears cable, tighten all nuts and bolts, check chain, quick release clamps, tires and put in new inner tubes and check wheel rims are not worn. In addition make sure the bike is well serviced and ride it with as much care and attention as possible.

We would also advise the following tools to accompany you on your tour: multi-tool, tyre levers, pump, 2 spare inner tube, spare spokes of the correct length to fit your wheels – check with a bike shop, brake pads, a few spare links for your chain, spares for any unique or high-tech items on your bike, e.g. fluid and bleed kit for hydraulic brakes.

In terms of clothing this is clearly up to you and we can only supply a rough guide as to what to take. This guide is entirely flexible and should be tailored to your specific needs. Sunglasses, lightweight trekking boots/shoes — cycling footwear, Lightweight socks (3 pairs) — heavy socks (1 pairs), Underwear (4 pairs) — lightweight thermal long johns, Lightweight, long-sleeved thermal shirt — lightweight trekking shorts, Padded cycling shorts (2 pairs) – shorts, T-shirts (2) — lightweight, long-sleeved shirt, Fleece jacket/pullover, Biking jacket — waterproof (breathable fabric), Fingerless biking gloves — warm gloves, Fleece hat or cap with earflaps, Headlamp – & spare bulbs/batteries, Spare laces — sunglasses, Toiletries — basic first aid kit, Towel (small) — small padlock, 2 large plastic bags (for keeping items dry in your bag), Sun Cream, Lip Balm. If you have any questions about this list please feel free to contact us.



Your bike must be carried as a part of your luggage allowance and, to this end, we do ask you to make every effort to keep your total check-in baggage to an absolute minimum. The baggage allowance for most airlines for an economy-class ticket is 20kg per person; although a degree of flexibility is usually extended to groups and the check in staff may accept up to 26kg per person without imposing excess baggage charges.

Your bike (in its cardboard box) will weigh 15 to 18kg. So, that means you will have a small allowance for clothing, etc. You should carry small heavy items in your day pack / pannier which you can take onto the plane as hand luggage.

Your hand luggage is not included as a part of your overall allowance, as it is not weighed. Please inform your airline that you will be taking your bike on the flight, and attempt to make every effort to secure from the airline an additional baggage allowance – but this is not always granted. Although we cannot guarantee that there will not be excess baggage charges, this is something, which very rarely happens.

What’s included and what’s not
All accommodation will be in hotels or guesthouses. We choose accommodation on the basis of comfort rather than luxury. Our prices are based on sharing a twin room; single rooms are available at extra cost.

Most of the food is provided on the tour. Pakistani food is similar to northern India but generally less spicy it also has some Central Asian and Middle Eastern influence. All transportation and local guides within Pakistan are included.

Our holiday price does not include international flights (an internal flight is included).

Spending money depends on your taste for souvenirs, drinks etc. We estimate that $400-$500 will be more than enough to cover the tour.



Spares
We would advise the following: a multi-tool, tyre levers, pump, 2 spare inner tube, spare spokes of the correct length to fit your wheels – check with a bike shop, brake pads, a few spare links for your chain, spares for any unique or high-tech items on your bike, e.g. fluid and bleed kit for hydraulic brakes.

One departure only per year around late September please ask for details and pricing

Inclusions: As per day by day itinerary

Cycle Pakistan Kyrgzstan China optional extras

Single supplement: Please ask about single supplements

Bike Hire from Local: From around $350

Prices are per person twin share, single supplement applies, please inquire for further details. Prices subject to change and availability and currency fluctuations.