Zoige to Langmusi.
Zoige is an ugly little town, which merits a stop only to change buses or rest after a long ride. It has good shops selling clothes and provisions and several guesthouses and restaurants making it a nice rest from the rigors of the road. There is a monastery nearby which has more character than the concrete block architecture of the new town.

The trip to Langmusi is a long steady gentle climb across 47 km of grass plains with just a few tents along the way. The final climb up to the pass reveals a lush forested valley lying before you, like entering paradise from purgatory.

For those with little time it is possible to take a bus to the top of the pass for 15RMB with the bikes on the roof, they will be happy to let you out at the top of the pass.

A 13km downhill run takes you to the border with Gansu where there is a beautiful monastery town. Follow the pilgrims’ trail around here for a nice hour-long diversion. You’ll be followed by dozens of monastery kids in training to be monks who will play on your bikes while you are trekking.

Another 13km along the road is the turnoff to Langmusi, 4km back towards Sichuan the town straddles the border.

Langmusi has several hostels all with cheap beds and the many restaurants serve excellent food.