Congratulations you've made the decision to embark on an adventure of a lifetime!
Please read below for next steps and FAQ
After I Paid the Deposit, What Should I Do to Prepare for the Tibet Trip?
Once you've paid the deposit, Serk will send you a detailed Q&A document (this document) and a trip process flow chart to help you get started with your preparations.
Am I Eligible to Enter Tibet?
Travelers using diplomatic passports or those who are journalists are not permitted to enter Tibet. Please ensure you have a regular passport.
Is My Passport Valid for Entry into Tibet?
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date into China.
Do I Need a Visa to Enter China?
The Chinese government has recently waived visa requirements for visitors from many countries, allowing a 30-day visa-free period. Here is a list of some eligible countries (not exhaustive). If you're unsure, please contact Serk to verify:
Europe: France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Ireland, Austria, Portugal, Greece, Malta, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Poland, Slovenia, Iceland, Hungary, Czech Republic
Asia: Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam
Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
If your country is not on this list, you will need to apply for a Chinese tourist visa from your local Chinese embassy, visa center, or consulate. Contact Serk staff for assistance with the necessary facilitating documents.
When Should I Apply for a Chinese Tourist Visa?
We recommend starting your visa application process three months before your trip start date, allowing one month for processing. If you have prior travel plans that prevent you from submitting your passport earlier, apply as soon as possible. Some countries may not issue visas more than three months in advance; check with your local embassy or visa center. Once you obtain your visa, send a copy to Serk no later than two months before your trip start date to facilitate the Tibet Permit application.
What Documents Do I Need to Provide for Permit Processing and When?
1. Passport Copy - Send a scanned copy of your passport's first page after paying the deposit.
2. Visa Copy - If applicable, send a copy of your Chinese visa at least two months before the trip start date.
3. Updated Passport - If you renew your passport after sending it to Serk, notify them immediately and provide an updated copy no later than two months before the trip.
When Do I Need to Book My Flights and Where Do I Fly To?
Arrival - Book your international flight to Chengdu Tianfu Airport (TFU) and arrive on the specified trip start date. We will stay at the Chengdu Tianfu Joyhub Cheer Hotel, which is walkable from the terminal. Arriving early in the day is recommended so you make it to the informative and delicious briefing dinner.
Departure - On the last day of the trip, we fly from Shigatse to Chengdu Shuangliu Airport. If flying internationally, take a cab to Chengdu Tianfu International Airport. Domestic flights can depart from Chengdu Shuangliu Airport. We suggest booking your return flight after 5 PM from Tianfu Airport.
Can I Book Extra Hotel Nights Before or After the Trip?
Yes, Serk can help book extra nights at the same hotel at Tianfu Airport. If you plan to visit Chengdu town, we can also recommend other hotels.
Should I Notify Serk Once I Book My Flight?
Yes, once you book your flight, notify Serk so they can assist with logistics.
Can I Get a SIM Card in China? Do I Need a VPN?
You can buy a SIM card with a data plan at Terminal 1 of Chengdu Tianfu Airport. Note that some international websites may not be accessible in China, so consider downloading a VPN app like AlwaysHome before your trip. Alternatively, you can use eSIMs.
Do I Need Cash? Can I Use Credit Cards and Other Payment Systems?
Exchange some cash at the airport or hotel for small purchases and tipping. A few hundred USD should be sufficient. Credit cards are generally not accepted in smaller shops or remote areas but are usable in major cities. Digital payment systems like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. Download these apps and link your foreign card for easy payments.
When Do I Need to Make My Final Payment for the Tibet Trip?
Serk will contact you around three months before your trip start date to arrange the remaining balance payment.
Do I Need to Tip?
No tips are required during the trip as Serk handles accommodations and meals. However, a tip of about USD 60 for the tour guide and drivers is appreciated at the end of the trip.
What If I Need to Cancel Before the Trip?
Contact Serk as soon as possible if you need to cancel. Refer to the cancellation policy here.
What Are the Requirements for Domestic Flights?
Each domestic flight allows one piece of free checked luggage (up to 20 kg), including bike boxes. Additional luggage incurs extra charges. You can also bring a small suitcase and a backpack as carry-on items.
What Type of Bike Should I Bring?
The roads in Tibet are all sealed and well maintained. A road bike is the best option for the trip. 28-30C tyres are recommended. Ensure you have adequate gearing - at least a 50/34 and 11-34 cassette. Your bike will be well looked after - we have a pro level transport van which protects your bike during transportation so have no fear if bringing your best bike.
Can I Rent or Buy a Serk Bike?
We have a fleet of 10 high end Serk Titanium bikes for rent with groupsets ranging from 105 to Ultegra Di2 level. We also have e-assist rear wheels available to convert your own bike into an ebike or convert one of our rental bikes. You can check out our bikes here. They were specifically designed for the routes we ride.
We'll ensure you have the correct tyre size and type, correct gearing and our support vehicle has all the spares required to service these bikes in case of any issues during the trip (of course you are responsible for any damage you cause while riding the bike). We also transport the bikes to the start point of the trip and back to our HQ again including packing and unpacking the bike so travel is hassle free for you.
If you send us detail of your current bike set up we can send you back CAD drawings showing how we will best replicate the position. The bikes are allocated on a first come first serve basis - contact us for exact specs of bikes at time of booking.
For the Everest trip bikes are rented out at US$100 per riding day and there are a total of 8 riding days.
We also make awesome titanium bikes which were developed around the needs of our frontier cycling trips. We have Trip + Bike offers providing up to 25% discount on a new Serk bike which is delivered to the start of the ride. Contact us for more info on the deals.
I Have a Special Medical Condition. Can I Go to Tibet?
Consult your doctor about cycling at high altitudes with your condition. Inform Serk staff when registering for the trip if there are any concerns.
I’m a Vegetarian or Have Special Dietary Requirements. Is This Okay?
Chinese cuisine offers many vegetable options suitable for vegetarians. For specific dietary needs, inform Serk staff in advance.
Can I Do Laundry Inside Tibet?
Laundry facilities are limited during the trip. The only opportunity will be during our two-day stay in Lhasa.
Do I Need Travel Insurance?
Yes, purchase travel insurance covering altitudes over 3,500 meters. Previous clients have used World Nomads.
How Do I Communicate During the Trip?
Download and register for WeChat on your phone. You may need verification by a WeChat user; ask a Chinese friend or Serk to assist.
Can I Go Into Tibet Earlier or Stay Longer?
Our group travels together under one Tibet Permit, so we must fly in and out together. Individual travel arrangements outside the group itinerary are not feasible.