“A unique experience. Unbelievable landscape and a carefree time. TDA Tours are addictive. I always felt in good hands. There were no problems, there were only solutions.”
SCROLL
Trans-Himalaya 2023
Trans-Himalaya 2023
Trans-Himalaya 2023
Cycle the roof of the world
RIDERS AND STAFF
Emily Currie
Tour Leader
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Emily Currie
Tour Leader
Srinagar to Kathmandu
“‘Happiness is only real when shared’: I think this counts for a whole spectrum of experiences and emotions—pain, hardship, excitement, joy, for instance—and explains why sharing an adventure or journey with a group makes it so very real!”
Who would have thought that growing up on a farm and a career in rural healthcare would prepare me for a job like my job at TDA? I always had the desire to travel and even though I thought working here would be too good to actually come true when I sent in my job application, here I am, six tours and 28 countries later. I’ve learned more about the world and myself then I ever expected.
With so many incredible memories—and so much food shared, so many friends made along the way—it will take me years to process everything I’ve experienced courtesy of TDA. Highlights of my travels so far include finishing the North American Epic (NAE) in Mexico City on the Day of the Dead, cycling Central Asia’s Pamir Highway, Abdul’s pilaf in the parking lot, Colombia, pan con chicharron, Patagonia, a massive thunder storm in Zambia, Hami melon, Madagascar, Samarkand, walnut and honey spread on fresh bread and topped with whipped yak cream, eaten in a warm yurt… and the list goes on! It’s amazing to realize that everything I experience with TDA will have an impact on my life long after these adventures are over.
One adventure I don’t expect to have again is the one I had in Mexico, when we discovered Hurricane Patricia was heading right straight at us. Monitoring the storm’s progress through the night—from stage 4 to stage 5—seemed so unreal. By 5:00 a.m., CNN was calling Patricia the strongest hurricane ever measured on planet earth. A few hours later, we loaded all bikes, riders, kit and crew onto an extra van and bus … and took off, tails between our legs, because Patricia was shaping up to be a beast! By nightfall we were safe and sound in the heart of tequila country, and, as Patricia lost most of her fury at landfall, the party at our lodgings ramped up.
There are so many wonderful aspects to working with TDA but key amongst them are travelling with purpose, meeting people from all over—and the food!
Yanez Novoa
Chef
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Yanez Novoa
Chef
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Oh to be on the road again. I am still suffering from a bit of cabin fever from the last few years and am excited to join you all in Buenos Aires.
Helen Gertig
Medic
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Helen Gertig
I'm a GP based in the beautiful Highlands of Scotland. Love an adventure by any self-propelled means. I have previously been medic for the (fabulous) Tour d'Afrique, Silk Route and Trans-Himalaya TDA expeditions. Looking forward to joining you all for this joyful two-wheeled scamper!!
Nirmika A
Content Creator
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Nirmika A
It's been quite a journey from finding about TDA through a friend..to being the content creator for two tours, The Hippie Trail and The Trans - Himalaya.... and to now being a tour leader trainee for TDA 2023! Can't wait to experience this epic of an adventure with you all!
Shaik Baba
Bike Mechanic
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Shaik Baba
Bike Mechanic
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Baba is a maestro in the art of cycle maintenance. He has close to 20 years of experience in the industry along with 10 years of travelling the length and breath of the country on cycle trips and camps. India is a highly diversified country with many languages. With five spoken languages under his belt, Baba is an asset to have on the team. Baba is a very friendly team person and ever willing to help & contribute in all aspects.
depi Chaudhry
Tour Leader Trainee
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Peter Hodges
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Peter Hodges
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Kiwi who enjoys getting out and exploring. (tda veteran)
Erwin Attenberger
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Erwin Attenberger
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Hi, I´m Erwin, already 69, retired. My first long tour was TDA 2014, where I went from Khartoum to Nairobi and on my own through Uganda, back to Kenia and from there down to Southafrica, Lesotho, Swaziland and Mozambique. Meantime I´ve been on several TDA-Tours including South America, Silk Route and Trans-Himalaya. Looking forward to meet you on the next tour with TDA.
Marie-Josée Vasseur
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Marie-Josée Vasseur
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Ron Jewula
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Ron Jewula
I live in Victoria and Whistler, Canada. Although I am more at home either on a sailboat or skiing, a couple years ago I rediscovered cycling after a short 48 year break. This will be my first trip to India and Nepal so very much looking forward to the ride. I still have a couple years of youth left before I turn 70, so what better way to enjoy life. I’ve done a couple longer rides – across Canada in 2015, Silk Route with TDA in 2014 until a rather inglorious end in Western China (I wasn’t watching and crashed out), then returning again in 2016 to complete the full ride. It will be great to ride again with many good friends – See you in Srinagar next August.
David Paterson
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
David Paterson
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
I am 69, retired, and live in the Okanagan Valley of B.C. Canada. Really only cycle to travel. Went on tda trips in Africa and India and the Himalayas.
Michael Netzsch
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Michael Netzsch
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
I am happy that I can join another tour with TDA.
Caroline Denee
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Caroline Denee
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
The Silk Road in 2014 was my first tour with TDA and my first long distance tour, now I'm back for more. A chance to reunite with old friends, make new friends and to meet like minded souls from all around the world. To explore by bike gives you the chance to experience remote locations, bustling cities, try new cuisines, be part of different cultures, take on new challenges, get plenty of exercise and to have the camaraderie at camp at the end of the day to share the highs and the lows with those who understand. In 2019 I completed the first trans Himalaya tour and that was quite an adventure. Europe will be very different this time. Can't wait for this adventure to begin !
Frieder Wolfart
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Frieder Wolfart
After riding with TDA one and a half time the Silkroad, the Magical Madagaskar and the Himalaya Tour it's time for the next one to South Korea an Japan. For me Korea and Japan are totally unknown countries and it's time to change that. I am looking forward to meet some old friends again and to find some new ones.
ellen loopstra
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
ellen loopstra
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Simon Thompson
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Simon Thompson
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
I'm an independent IT Consultant. Really looking forward to the Trans-Himalaya - it will be my first major cycling tour and it looks like it will be quite an adventure!
Per Sörner
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Per Sörner
Freelance engineer, musician and reality hacker from the Swedish west coast. Currently on an indefinite sabbatical to explore life, the universe and everything. I find expedition cycling a good way to practise living in the present, enjoy a "simple" life, see the world, fill up with new impressions and stretch the edge of my comfort zone. Previous TdA experience: Hong Kong to Bangkok (Bamboo Road premiere 2013), Bali to Alice Springs (Trans-Oceania premiere 2014), Quito to Cusco (SAE 2015), Ulan Bator to Gorno-Altaysk (Silk Route 2016), Freetown to Cape Coast (West Africa en Vélo premiere 2018) and Kashmir to Kathmandu (Trans Himalaya premiere 2019).
Bernice Aebly
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Bernice Aebly
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
This is me having fun in Vermont. This will be my fifth time with TDA, Orient Express in 2018, Baja section of North American Tour, 2013; Australia 2104; and 2 month Silk Route in 2016. The draw for the Silk Route was going through Mongolia . This new tour in the Himalayas is an area that I have not travel to before. Looking forward to the experience and meeting up again with friends from past tours. Wow so excited, a space came available for Journey to the East 2, so here I go again. So many good friends to meet up with again and to enjoy Japan. See you all soon.
Jonna Koch
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Jonna Koch
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
I feel alive when I am riding on my bike. At home in Denmark I ride flat so I prefer to ride in the mountains when I am cycling abroad. I did the Trans-Himalaya in 2019 and the Kingdom of the West in Morocco in 2022 and Trans-Caucasus in 2022.
Brigitte Oelert
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Brigitte Oelert
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
I am married to Jürgen Willrodt and our first vacation 30 years ago was a bike tour through France. After our kids were grown, Jürgen convinced me to ride the Ruta Maya in Central America in 2015. It was my first TDA tour, which was tough but absolutely fantastic! The following year I cycled part of the Trans-Oceania Tour - from Auckland to Queenstown and in 2019 the first 4 weeks of the Trans-Himalaya Tour. Now I'm looking forward to cycling in Korea and Japan, to meet some friends and to eat the delicious food.
Dunnery Best
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Dunnery Best
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Victoria B.C. Canadian. Hikes, bikes and races and cruises sailboats. Snow sports: downhill, board, XC classic and skate . Devoted mushroom hunter.
Marco Panebianco
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Marco Panebianco
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
CIAO!
Rod Pennington
Rider
Manali to Kathmandu
Harold Solomon
Rider
Manali to Rishikesh
Harold Solomon
Husband of 20 years and father of a high school senior, Ben and freshman, Mira. I love adventures and need one now to get my next chapter in life booted up. Always worked well when I've done that in the past and I hope it brings the same magic again.
Catriona Kennedy
Rider
Manali to Kathmandu
Catriona Kennedy
Rider
Manali to Kathmandu
Mike and I have cycled from Istanbul to Beijing, Shanghai to Singapore, through India, Cartagena to Santiago and Brazil with TDA and done numerous cycling tours through Europe and across America. This trip through Seoul and Japan sounds fantastic and we're really looking forward to it.
Don Colpitts
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Don Colpitts
The vendors setting up their market stalls in the early morning light, the children joining friends for the walk to school, scooters carrying entire families through busy intersections: the start of another day, in this town, right now, right here, where I am in the midst of the intimate fleeting dance called life. Some make references to "real-life" back at home, call this journey "once-in-a-lifetime", speak of a destination as a finish line. I reject all such attempts to constrain these experiences of exploring the world's peoples, cultures, geographies, religions, customs, daily rhythms of life, as merely attempts to stay sheltered in what is familiar, to be put it in a box to be forgotten. Instead, these journeys are life-changing: challenging what we think we know, can do, can feel, and need.
Ruth Storm
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Ruth Storm
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Joining the Tour d’Afrique in 2007 was the beginning of my love of cycle touring. Since, I’ve cycled independently in Europe, New Zealand, Middle East, North America, TDA Silk Road 2016, TDA Madagascar 2019 and TDA Himalayas 2019. I also sail, trek, climb and ski long distances and remotely. Looking forward to exploring with like-minded friends!
Henry Gold
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Henry Gold
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Founder, TDA Global Cycling
Richard Feldman
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Richard Feldman
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Since 2016, I’ve ridden with Adventure Cycling Association on their Southern Tier USA Cross Country Route, the Route 66 ride from Chicago to L.A. and the Pacific Coast from the Canadian to Mexican borders. Morocco will be my third trip with TDA. My previous trips are the Bamboo Road from Shanghai to Singapore. and The Trans Himalayan ride through Northern India into Nepal. Great adventures all! Semi-retired, divorced with two adult sons. I live in and bike New York City. Enthusiastically looking forward to this new adventure! Everyone tells me Morocco in a fantastic place to see and be.
gonzalo garcia
Rider
Rishikesh to Kathmandu
gonzalo garcia
Rider
Rishikesh to Kathmandu
Hello I am Gonzalo García, from Ecuador, a life time sports fan, bike lover that enjoy adventures, meet new people and cultures.
Peye Vlot
Rider
Srinagar to Manali
Juan Xavier Checa
Rider
Rishikesh to Kathmandu
Juan Xavier Checa
Rider
Rishikesh to Kathmandu
Hello, my name is Juan Xavier Checa, I am from Ecuador. I love to be in the nature and make new friends. I am waiting to start riding my bike in this tour!!!!!
Ross Norton
Rider
Manali to Kathmandu
Fred Promoli
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Fred Promoli
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Occupation: retired Physical Education and Outdoor Education teacher; former naval officer; Hometown: Guelph, Ontario Current residence: Collingwood, Ontario Former provinces of residence: all but Nfld, NB, PEI TdA experience: Tour d'Afrique 2003; Orient Express 2008; Silk Route 2008; Bamboo Road 2013; Australia 2014; South America 2015, 2017; Lake Winnipeg 2016; (America by Bicycle northern route 2016); Trans Himalaya 2019 Current activities: cycling, motorcycle touring, golf, canoe tripping, xc skiing; bagpipe band member
Juergen Willrodt
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Juergen Willrodt
I am 73 years old and have already participated in 10 TDA tours mainly as a sectional rider. I am married and happy father of three girls (42, 27 and 24) and grandfather of three grandchildren. I am partly retired working now just 1 or 2 days a week which gives me plenty of time to travel. I have studied physics and have a Ph.D. in theoretical particle physics. I have been active in sports all my life and before I started doing cycling tours I have been active in Karate and participated in World Championships 1975 in Los Angeles and 1977 in Tokyo and became European Champion in 1977. You can find more information on my website.
Michael Kennedy
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Michael Kennedy
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
This is my 8th TDA tour starting with the first TDA I have also done the first Silk Route, Bamboo Road, South American Epic, Carnival Cycling Expedition and Trans Himalaya as well as the second India Adventure/Hippy trail. I have also cycled across the US twice, Europe, eastern Australia and South America as well as numerous shorter tours around America, Europe and North Africa.
Rae Simpson
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Rae Simpson
I'm a retired test pilot/engineer/other aviation things. I took up cycling when arthritis and a double hip replacement ended my running career. My wife, Ursula, and I have done a number of TDA trips starting with Africa in 2008, using them as our window to places we haven't been before. We've enjoyed every one. After three postponements, we are really looking forward to JTE happening in 2023. Looking forward to reuniting with friends from previous trips and meeting new ones in Seoul.
Ursula Simpson
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Ursula Simpson
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
I am a retired database analyst. Enjoying life in Squamish, on Canada's West coast. Either hiking, biking, or skiing. Having fun with my two grandsons and one grand daughter or hanging out with friends. My husband Rae and I are seasoned riders with TdA. Tour d’Afrique in 2008, Rome in 2012, Bamboo Road in 2013 and Australia in 2014. New Zealand in 2016. The Magical Madagascar tour in 2017. Hippie trail in 2019 and The Himalayas in 2019. Morocco in 2022.
SEE
LESS
SEE LESS
Emily Currie
Tour Leader
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Peter Hodges
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Erwin Attenberger
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Marie-Josée Vasseur
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
Ron Jewula
Rider
Srinagar to Kathmandu
SEE
MORE
SEE MORE
Felice de Schutter
Tour Leader Trainee
Leh to Kathmandu
Felice de Schutter
Tour Leader Trainee
Leh to Kathmandu
Hitchhiking through Argentina and Chile 6 years ago first inspired me to travel by bike. Meeting so many long-distance cyclists and listening to their stories I just couldn't help it but buy a bike for my own adventures. And once you start travelling by bike, you can never go back. The freedom it gives you, not having to wait for a bus but just hop on the bike, the perfect pace at which you move through the environment, fast enough to cover some distance, but slow enough to see everything, interacting with the locals whenever you like, occasionally stopping for delicious local meals, and in the evening, finding the most beautiful campspot for setting up the tent, it's unique. Not to forget just feeling good moving in the fresh air all day. Since I fell in love with bikepacking, I spend a couple of months every year on self-supported bikepacking trips. The Alps, Eastern Europe, Dolomites, Italy, and most recently I spent 6 months cycling all the way through Mexico from North to South. Before I started working with TDA, I guided MTB tours crossing the Alps, and, combining my degree in Psychology with my passion for the outdoors, I took troubled kids for month-long hiking trips through the German forests. I am convinced that being outside in nature, especially in combination with sports is the best way to stay healthy, both physically and mentally. Being confronted with and testing and overcoming your own limits each day inevitably leads you to become stronger. Share this experience with a like-minded, adventurous community like you meet with TDA, and the positive outcomes double. I'm super excited for this next trip and curious to meet everyone! Hasta luego!
Samuel Roy
Tour Leader
Leh to Kathmandu
Samuel Roy
Tour Leader
Leh to Kathmandu
I see bike touring as an opportunity to slow down and bring yourself back to the essential things in life. Food, water, shelter, love, connection, space in your heart, space in your mind, movement, exploration. I believe that travelling by bike is the best way to discover our beautiful planet because of the pace of travel. It's fast enough to cover ground and cross continents, as we do with TDA, but it's slow enough to be able to truly soak in the destination you're in and everything that comes with it. The vulnerability of being alone on a bike, dressed up in bright lycra in the middle of nowhere makes you approachable and sparks curiousness and interest in the locals you meet on the road. As a tour leader with TDA, I am grateful to have the opportunity to facilitate these experiences, moments and connections.
I'm originally from Montreal in Canada where I studied business and tourism, but I have recently moved to Barcelona where cycling is unreal, even over the winter months. For the past few years, my career has been a collection of different projects and opportunities such as working as a TV host back home in Quebec, guiding with TDA and other outdoors companies as well as running my own vanlife conversion business. I've always loved getting around on two wheels, for some years, my focus was to go as fast as I could while I raced Ironman triathlons as a semi-pro. Nowadays, I still enjoy riding my bike, but a little slower, and looking around much more.
My best memory on tour is without a doubt when both my parents joined the 2019 Tour d'Afrique as riders to cycle the last two sections of the tour, from Vic Falls to Cape Town. It was such a precious privilege to be on sweep duty and get to ride with both of them through the namibian dunes.
As a tip for future participants, I think the best mindset to come onto a tour with is one of gratitude. We are all so privileged, both staff and riders, to be on these trips that being grateful for this life we get to live is an attitude we must cultivate.
See you on the road!
Yanez Novoa
Assistant Tour Leader
Leh to Kathmandu
Yanez Novoa
Assistant Tour Leader
Leh to Kathmandu
A long time ago, I had a ten minute conversation on the beach with Steve who had been on a TDA tour through Africa. I didn’t know it then but it planted a thought in my head that would soon change the course of my life.
It seemed that everything I had done before had in some way prepared me for this. A life in hospitality and a few years at sea - from some grand establishments to some very inhospitable vessels and anything in-between.
There were a variety of less stimulating occupations I had explored before I landed at TDA. I think this is what has kept me here for so long, the almost overwhelming stimulation that one gets from daily life on tour, which is miles apart from my quiet country life in South Africa.
That, and the other people. There is always such a variety of people from all walks of life and from all over the world that I would otherwise not have met.
Rama Kanth
Tour Leader Trainee
Leh to Kathmandu
Rama Kanth
Tour Leader Trainee
Leh to Kathmandu
i am from Manali Himachal Predash India.
Samuel Covins
Medic
Leh to Kathmandu
Samuel Covins
Medic
Leh to Kathmandu
UK-based doctor working in emergency & expedition medicine and previous tour medic on the Tour d'Afrique. Looking forward to cycling around Asia with you all on the Trans Himalaya and Golden Buddha tours later this year!
Ezhil Vasanthan Ebinezer
Tour Leader Trainee
Leh to Kathmandu
Ezhil Vasanthan Ebinezer
Tour Leader Trainee
Leh to Kathmandu
depi Chaudhry
Local Support
Leh to Kathmandu
Shaik Baba
Bike Mechanic
Leh to Kathmandu
Shaik Baba
Bike Mechanic
Leh to Kathmandu
Baba is a maestro in the art of cycle maintenance. He has close to 20 years of experience in the industry along with 10 years of travelling the length and breath of the country on cycle trips and camps. India is a highly diversified country with many languages. With five spoken languages under his belt, Baba is an asset to have on the team. Baba is a very friendly team person and ever willing to help & contribute in all aspects.
Sharita van der Merwe
Assistant Tour Leader
Leh to Shimla
Sharita van der Merwe
Assistant Tour Leader
Leh to Shimla
“The thing I love most about my job is watching the social dynamics unfold.”
For as long as I can remember I’ve been stripping, fixing, and riding bicycles. As well, I knew from a young age I wanted to explore, travel, and see the world—my dream at one time was to fly airplanes. However, it wasn’t long before I realized that flying in a straight line from point A to point B wasn’t for me!
When I left school I had no direction, no idea of where I wanted to be or what I wanted to do, once my dream of flying died. In 2003, I saw a magazine ad of a bunch of cyclists lined up in front of the Giza pyramids and I became hooked on the idea of doing that but I had to choose between taking a four-month cycling trip across Africa or going to Warriors Boot Camp to get educated. I chose Warriors and the programme equipped me for life by giving me a solid foundation. There, I was free to discover and explore who I was and to test physical and mental endurance. Having my attitude and my comfort zone constantly pushed readied me for all sorts of real-world challenges. I stayed at Warriors for three years, then cycled solo across Africa when I was 22 years old. In 2009, I landed the job as TDA’s assistant tour director on the Cairo to Cape Town trip—and the rest is history.
Ever since, Africa has been my baby and my favourite. I’ve worked on other tours—the Silk Route, the Bamboo Road, Ruta Maya, Magical Madagascar—but Africa is my full-time project and has lately included TDA’s complex tour of West Africa.
I’m based in beautiful Cape Town; when I’m not here, I’m scouting, exploring, problem-solving somewhere in the world and revelling in the adventure of being alive.
TDA has taken me to 80 countries and my most incredible off-the-beaten-track expedition was the West Africa scout in 2017, especially Guinea—I’d never been to a place so remote, rough or wild. I fell in love with Africa all over again on that trip. The stories are epic and endless!
There’s never a dull moment with TDA, because you absolutely never know what’s going to happen next.
Dag Willems
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Dag Willems
I love nature, the mountains, landscapes, endurance and i like riding my bike in new territories. I like to feel the elements on my body, a challenge and an adventure. I like to be completely freed and taken away from the every day routines and responsibilities of life. The Trans Himalaya seems to tick all the boxes! I look forward to meet everyone on the tour.
josine meurs
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
josine meurs
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Birgit Loppenthien
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Birgit Loppenthien
Looking forward to this bike adventure :0)
Karin Lind Hansen
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Karin Lind Hansen
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
I love travelling. I love biking. I love visiting new places. I completed my first trip with TDA in December 2019 and just returned back home now from a TDA tour in Morocco - and I just cannot wait for the next trip.
Mary Potyrala
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Mary Potyrala
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Dennis Joe
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Richard Schingler
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Richard Schingler
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
I love to travel and see the world from the seat of a bicycle. This will be my fifth tour with TDA.
Craig Tingle
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Craig Tingle
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Looking forward to another trip with TDA and meeting up with my very old Canadian friend.
Tjeerd Saatrube
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Tjeerd Saatrube
Hi, my name is typical Dutch and for most people difficult to pronounce. So just call me 'cheers', that's very close to what it should be. Although I am a flatlander of 57 years, I love the mountains all year round: hiking, skiing and biking. It's my first trip with an organised tour and my first trip to Himalaya. Looking forward to meet you all in Leh. Less than 3 months to go!!!!
Bob Whitehead
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Bob Whitehead
Bob Whitehead Age: 75 Profession: Retired Chartered Civil Engineer Resident in Hong Kong: 31 years I was attracted to join my first bike tour in 2012 with TDA Global by the prospect of long distance adventure cycling in intriguing and sometimes remote and hostile environments. This was TDA's Silk Road tour. Some time later, when I saw their South American bike tour advertised, I was immediately attracted back to do my second long distance tour. I have now fitted bike touring into my already full & active lifestyle! So where have I come from? I’m a retired civil engineer and have lived in rural Hong Kong on and off for much of the last 40 years. There is a great range of outdoor activities on the doorstep, in particular excellent trail running and sailing. It’s also a good hub from which to take off to countries in the region and indulge in skiing, trekking and even simply just travelling! When one is still fit, why would you want to leave Hong Kong, even after 31 years? Well, I have at last now moved back to UK. As for what else got me into cycling……..Well, I’ve been a trail runner for most of my time in HK and reached the top level in my age category in cross-country, long distance trail running and mountain marathons at the ripe old age of 55. Then, after a few years, I decided to take after the great ultra-marathon runner, Marshall Ulrich, and diversify. This, as a way to keep motivated. It started with adventure racing and along with a team mate, we travelled around SE Asia competing at the top level for a number of years. Mountain biking was an important discipline and to help with my bike fitness, I brought my trusty 30-year old Carlton Gyro road bike over from the UK as my training steed. This had to go back recently to be sandblasted and painted after suffering from the ravages of Hong Kong's humidity for 10-years. Then in 2010, we competed in the Scottish Coast to Coast adventure race, for which I purchased a 16-speed cyclo-cross bike. I decided to "tour" back along the route over 5-days. This started me thinking about doing a "proper" bike tour and since I possessed a book about the Silk Road, such a bike tour loomed high on the agenda. I had also picked up a couple of books in a second hand bookshop back home in England. They were travel books on Morocco and Yunnan province in China. Glancing through those I rediscovered trekking, something I had experienced years before in Nepal in the early ‘80s. So long distance bike touring and high altitude trekking have been the focus more recently. In 2012, it was the Silk Road for 10-weeks for which I set up my mountain bike with road transmission components. In May 2013, I completed two solo treks in Morocco each based on the two highest peaks of Toubkal and Mgoun, both a little over 4000 metres. And from May 2014, China was the focus. It started with the Big Kora, a Pilgrims' circumnavigation of three 6000-metre peaks in western China involving seven mountain passes of up to 4700m. Since then, Habba Snow mountain has been the focus, with several trips (there being no maps available) culminating in a successful trip to the summit at 5,396m in 2019. Late in 2014, I completed a 5-day tour in Devon, UK on my cyclo-cross bike. This with a view to tackling LEJOG, a bike challenge of 970 miles taking in the UK from bottom to top (SW to NE). I needed to test out my gearing for the many hills on LEJOG. The idea was to take in LEJOG as a warm up for the SA Epic. The part of the LEJOG in Devon has the toughest hills on the whole LEJOG route, so this was an ideal testing ground for my equipment and gearing. And the result? I straight-away ordered a new MTB cassette and new rear changer for the bike! As for LEJOG, well I completed this in 12-days after Easter 2015 …….. and still had to walk up a number of the hills! For the South American Epic, starting in July 2015, I decided to take my mountain bike, which had proved very successful and trouble free on the Silk Road. I felt it more suitable and comfortable for the longer distances and longer climbs. And it featured yet again in the TDA West Africa tour in 2018. Meanwhile I'm still enjoying trail running and find it compliments biking very nicely. I also more recently introduced road biking to my activities and found a superb circuit in South Devon which takes me about 23kms there and back along superb coastal scenery.
Richard HIMBERT
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Richard HIMBERT
Cyclist since 1987 after having been a runner, I traveled mainly in France and a little in Europe, in 1993, I made my first trip ouside the european continent, it was Colorado's turn. In 2018 i started a world tour by bike....The tour d'Afrique is one of them.
frank smith
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
frank smith
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
This is a great chance to ride with some old Boet from the RSA.I have only been in this part of the country while travelling in a car so it will be great to slow down and see the area.
Laurens Keesen
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Laurens Keesen
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
I am a man, 60 years of age. I cycle a lot. I am born in Holland, and moved to the Caribbean island of Curacao 26 years ago. I am really looking forward to my next adventure. I did several bike tours in Europe and South America carrying my own stuff. This is my first time on an organized tour.
Erik Snucins
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Erik Snucins
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Retired Land Surveyor , gentleman farmer, and enjoy long rides
Tom Woodard
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Tom Woodard
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
I'm 58. Family grown up, and making their own way in life. Business organised to allow these sorts of trips. Time for adventure travel again (veteran of Tour d'Afrique 2018 and South American Epic 2022.) Looking forward to meeting a group of like minded people to share the experience.
Mats Fredrix
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Mats Fredrix
I remember the first time I had tears of joy running down my cheeks on a descent, and screaming every syllable of 'Paradise by the Dashboard Lights' to endure the pains of a full day in the headwind. This might just be one of mine, but you'll experience plenty, beautifully weird 'joys of riding' of your own, and when those happen, I'm your man. To tell your story, your adventure. Or you might just want a cool looking picture of you and some mountains. See you out there, Rouleurs. Live Slow, Ride Fast.
Brenda Trenholme
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Brenda Trenholme
I have a passion for most outdoor sports, especially in the mountains. I’m looking forward to exploring the Himalayas and getting to know the other cyclists in this group! By giving slideshows of my cycling adventures, I fundraise for a Canadian charity called the Kenya Education Endowment Fund.
An Vaes
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
An Vaes
After tour d’Afrique, I didn’t expect to take part of a new adventure so fast. But as life can sometimes take unexpected turns, this is definitely one of them. I’m looking forward to this adventure. See you all very soon!
Henk van der Huls
Rider
Leh to Shimla
Henk van der Huls
Rider
Leh to Shimla
Dutchman , cycles regularly , 75 years of age , medical background , living in the carribean on Curacao . NA .Happily married.
Brian McCloskey
Rider
Leh to Shimla
Brian McCloskey
My wife Karen and I reside along the seacoast just north of Boston. My previous experiences with TDA were riding GART tour in 2021; riding a section of the 2023 NA Epic from Banff to Helena last fall; pedaling across Rajasthan Province on the Hippie Trail and most recently riding in the Himalayas. We are looking forward to reuniting with some of our GART friends and meeting some new riders to share this adventure with in Italy.
SEE
LESS
SEE LESS
Samuel Roy
Tour Leader
Leh to Kathmandu
Dag Willems
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
josine meurs
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Birgit Loppenthien
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Karin Lind Hansen
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
SEE
MORE
SEE MORE
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Jan Demeulemeester
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Jan Demeulemeester
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
In daily life a site manager in Belgium, who likes to discover and enjoy the world by bicycle in a slow way.
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Mark Van Cott
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Mark Van Cott
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Didier Muller
Rider
Leh to Shimla
Didier Muller
Soon retiring from corporate life , i enjoy riding almost daily and i am looking forward to enjoy traveling with my bike. ...Born in France , US Citizen and a Brazilian resident for a few years
Philip Newton
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Philip Newton
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Peter Cox
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Peter Cox
Retired Paediatric Critical Care MD; Worked with MSF and other NGOs since then. Rode Cairo to Cape Town 2019 Rode Trans Caucasus 2022
Kees Kouwenhoven
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Kees Kouwenhoven
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Born and raised in Holland. I am married for a long time, over 60 years of age and working in agricultural business as an advisor for growers in pest management in greenhouses. Besides travelling, cycling is one of my hobbies so this tour is a good combination of both. With friends we have been cycling a lot through Europe This will be my second expedition outside Europe after doing half of the Silk Route with TDA four years ago. Hoping to make new memories
Inge Ruijs
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Inge Ruijs
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
In 2022 I did the North American Epic and got hooked. I love longdistance walking and biking and am looking forward to my next trip!
Luca Ruijs
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Luca Ruijs
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Kristin Mattocks
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
SEE
LESS
SEE LESS
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Jan Demeulemeester
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Mark Van Cott
Rider
Leh to Kathmandu
Didier Muller
Rider
Leh to Shimla
SEE
MORE
SEE MORE
“The stunning mountains, the wonderful and colourful people beside the roads, the atmosphere among the riders, the perfect organisation, the spontaneous improvisations, the likable, dedicated and perfect team. Cycling with TDA is like cycling with your family.”
Frieder Wolfart (Switzerland)
2019 Trans-Himalaya
“A tour like this just might show you what you are capable of doing, how little you actually need, what matters most in your life, how boundless your joy can be, and how your fears evaporate when you are entirely focused on the moment you are in.”
Don Colpitts (Canada)
2019 Trans-Himalaya
OVERVIEW TRANS-HIMALAYA 2023
- FULL TOUR
- SECTION 1
- SECTION 2
- TRANS-HIMALAYA
- LAND OF THE MONKS
- HEAVENLY HILL STATIONS
- LEH TO KATHMANDU
- LEH TO SHIMLA
- SHIMLA TO KATHMANDU
- AUG 20 TO OCT 8
- AUG 20 TO SEP 11
- SEP 14 TO OCT 8
- USD 13900
- USD 8400
- USD 9100
- SPACES AVAILABLE
- SPACES AVAILABLE
- SPACES AVAILABLE
-
FULL TOUR
- TRANS-HIMALAYA
- LEH TO KATHMANDU
- AUG 20 TO OCT 8
- 13900 USD
- SPACES AVAILABLE
-
SECTION 1
- LAND OF THE MONKS
- LEH TO SHIMLA
- Aug 20 - Sep 11
- 8400 USD
- SPACES AVAILABLE
-
SECTION 2
- HEAVENLY HILL STATIONS
- SHIMLA TO KATHMANDU
- Sep 14 - Oct 8
- 9100 USD
- SPACES AVAILABLE
ALL DEPARTURES
- 2023
- 2025
- TRANS-HIMALAYA
- TRANS-HIMALAYA
- LEH TO KATHMANDU
- LEH TO KATHMANDU
- AUG 20 TO OCT 8
- AUG 20 TO OCT 8
- USD 13900
- SPACES AVAILABLE
- SPACES AVAILABLE
-
2023
- TRANS-HIMALAYA
- LEH TO KATHMANDU
- Aug 20 - Oct 8
- 13900 USD
- SPACES AVAILABLE
-
2025
- TRANS-HIMALAYA
- LEH TO KATHMANDU
- Aug 20 - Oct 8
- SPACES AVAILABLE
Full tour and section dates listed are for first and last day of cycling. Prices based on double occupancy at majority of the hotels. Solo riders will be paired with another rider of the same gender at no additional charge. Accommodation the night before first cycling day and the night of last cycling day are included in entry fee. We advise booking at least 1 additional night at tour accommodation before the tour, to be able to attend rider briefing and have assistance from tour bike mechanic in setting up your bike.
Full entry fee payment is due 90 days before the tour start date. A registration fee of US$150 must first be paid to hold your place on the tour and is in addition to the entry fee listed above. Registration fee is non-refundable, but may be transferred once, to another tour of your choosing, 90 days or more before the start date of the original tour you have registered for. We recommend registering 4 - 6 months before the tour start date to take full advantage of our pre-tour support and information bulletins, but late registrations are possible when spaces are still available.
Full tour entry fees will receive an early payment discount of USD$400 if full payment is received 6 months before the start of the tour. TDA alumni get special alumni discounts. Please contact our office for further details.















LATEST TOUR NEWS

Cycling Through The 'Land Of The Monks' On The Trans-Himalaya Adventure
Brian McCloskey is a TDA Global Cycling alumni who has taken part in the North American Epic, TDA's Great…
UPDATED September 22, 2023 BY Guest Author

The Gem Of The Spiti Valley Or Why To Never Skip Dinner
This blog was spontaneously contributed by veteran TDA staffer and Chef on many tours: Yanez Novoa. On the Trans-Himalaya…
UPDATED September 21, 2023 BY Guest Author

At High Altitude, Change Your Attitude!
Mats Fredrix is the Content Creator on the 2023 Trans-Himalaya Cycling Adventure. He sends his first report from the…
UPDATED August 30, 2023 BY Guest Author
SIMILAR EXPERIENCES
Magical Madagascar
IFATY
TO ANTSIRANANA
44 DAYS,
3,035 km
Bamboo Road
HANOI
TO SINGAPORE
61 DAYS,
5,300 km
Hippie Trail
AGRA
TO GOA
38 DAYS,
2,815 km
WANT TO TRY US OUT FOR FREE?
We welcome you to join us, free of charge, for up to three days on one of our tours in your area. An excellent chance to sample the TDA experience first hand without committing to a longer tour.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST RIDER DAYS