Highlights
Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang
Experience the unique culture of the Mustang region
Ride through remote mountain villages
Witness the daily lives of the friendly locals
Take in breathtaking views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
Visit the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath
Ride through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world's deepest gorge
Marvel at the red cliffs and ancient cave dwellings of Dhakmar
Relax in the natural hot springs of Tatopani
Enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Mustang region
Challenge yourself with varied terrain and elevation changes
Experience the hospitality and warmth of Nepalese people.
The Complete Guide to Upper Mustang Bike
The Upper Mustang region in Nepal is a land of mystique, steeped in ancient history and culture. Tucked away in the remote Himalayas, this region remained closed to outsiders until 1992, which has helped preserve its unique heritage and customs. A mountain biking tour of this region is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is sure to thrill adventure seekers.
Starting from Kathmandu, the tour takes you to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region. From Pokhara, you'll fly to Jomsom and begin your journey towards the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang. The ride to Lo Manthang takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, with stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
As you continue your adventure, you'll pass through charming villages like Samar, Ghami, and Lo Manthang, where you can immerse yourself in the unique culture and traditions of the Mustang people. You'll also have the opportunity to ride through stunning landscapes, such as the Kimaling-Choser loop and the red cliffs of Dhakmar.
Join us on the Upper Mustang Mountain Bike Tour for an unforgettable adventure through some of the most spectacular terrain in the world. Get ready to push your limits, explore new horizons, and create unforgettable memories.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Kathmandu
You will arrive in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, where you'll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you can take some time to relax, explore the hotel, or visit some of the nearby tourist sites such as Swayambhunath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers panoramic views of the city. In the evening, you'll meet your guide and fellow riders to discuss the upcoming tour.
Day 2 - Preparation and Sightseeing in Kathmandu
This day is for preparing for the tour and exploring the city of Kathmandu. After breakfast, your guide will brief you about the tour, and you'll have the chance to rent or purchase any equipment you need. After that, you can explore the city of Kathmandu, which has a rich cultural and historical heritage. You may want to visit some of the famous tourist sites in Kathmandu such as Durbar Square or the famous temples like Pashupatinath and Boudhanath. In the evening, you'll meet your guide and fellow riders again to finalize the tour preparations.
Day 3 - Journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara
After breakfast, you'll take a scenic flight or drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a picturesque lakeside city in the western part of Nepal. Upon arrival, you can take a leisurely stroll around the city or visit the famous Fewa Lake. In the evening, you'll meet your guide to discuss the tour itinerary and any last-minute preparations.
Day 4 - Flight to Jomsom, Ride to Kagbeni: 10km Distance, 250m Elevation Gain
This day starts with an early morning flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, which offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range. After landing in Jomsom, the group will start their bike ride towards Kagbeni, a picturesque village situated at the entry of the restricted Upper Mustang region. The ride is about 10km long with a gradual ascent of 250m. Along the way, you will witness the unique landscape of the region with arid desert-like terrain and towering rock formations. Upon arrival in Kagbeni, the group will explore the village and rest for the night.
Day 5 - Kagbeni to Muktinath: 10km Distance, 1100m Elevation Gain
The day starts with a climb to the famous Muktinath temple, one of the most important pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists. The ride is about 10km long, but it involves a steep ascent of 1100m, which can be challenging for some. However, the stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and the unique landscape make it all worthwhile. Upon arrival in Muktinath, you will have the opportunity to explore the ancient temple and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
Day 6 - Muktinath to Samar: 29km Distance, 1350m Elevation Gain
This day is the longest ride of the tour, covering a distance of 29km with an ascent of 1350m. The trail passes through the Kali Gandaki valley, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the unique rock formations. The ride also takes you through several traditional Mustangi villages, where you can witness the local culture and lifestyle. Upon arrival in Samar, you will rest for the night in one of the teahouses.
Day 7 - Samar to Ghami: 28km Distance, 1100m Elevation Gain
The ride from Samar to Ghami is about 28km long with an ascent of 1100m. The trail takes you through several high passes, including the Bhena La pass at 3860m, which offers panoramic views of the Mustang region. The ride also passes through several ancient chortens and monasteries, offering insights into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Upon arrival in Ghami, you will rest for the night in one of the teahouses.
Day 8 - Ghami to Lo Manthang: 26km Distance, 1080m Elevation Gain
This day's ride is about 26km long, with an ascent of 1080m. The trail takes you through several traditional Mustangi villages, offering insights into the local culture and lifestyle. The ride also takes you through several high passes, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the arid desert-like landscape. Upon arrival in Lo Manthang, you will rest for the night in one of the teahouses.
Day 9 - Kimaling; Choser Loop (Lo Manthang): 21km Distance, 600m Elevation Gain
This day is a rest day, but you can choose to take a short ride to the nearby Kimaling village or the Choser Valley. The ride is about 21km long, with an ascent of 600m. The ride offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and the unique landscape of the region. Upon returning to Lo Manthang, you can explore the ancient walled city and rest for the night.
Day 10 - Lo Manthang to Ghami via Dhakmar: 21km Distance, 900m Elevation Gain
Today's ride takes us back to Ghami via Dhakmar. We start with a steep descent through the Lo Manthang valley before crossing a river and beginning a steep climb to a ridge. From there, we enjoy some amazing views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges before descending towards the village of Dhakmar.
Day 11 - Ghami to Chele: 32km Distance, 1300m Elevation Gain
Today, you'll ride from Ghami to Chele, covering a distance of 32 kilometers with an elevation gain of 1300 meters. The route takes you through several small villages, and you'll ride through the Kali Gandaki river valley. You'll cross a few suspension bridges and ride along the river before starting a steep ascent towards Chele. On the way, you'll get to enjoy the stunning views of the mountains and the valley.
Day 12 - Chele to Marpha: 35km Distance, 950m Elevation Gain
Today's ride takes you from Chele to Marpha, covering a distance of 35 kilometers with an elevation gain of 950 meters. You'll start by climbing up to the pass of Taklam La (3,624m) and continue riding through some of the most beautiful landscapes of the region. You'll pass through some traditional Tibetan villages and apple orchards before reaching Marpha, a beautiful village known for its apple brandy and cider.
Day 13 - Marpha to Tatopani: 43km Distance, 550m Elevation Gain
Today, you'll ride from Marpha to Tatopani, covering a distance of 43 kilometers with an elevation gain of 550 meters. The route takes you through the Kali Gandaki river valley, where you'll ride through some of the deepest gorges in the world. You'll pass through several small villages and cross the river multiple times before reaching Tatopani, a natural hot spring famous for its healing properties.
Day 14 - Tatopani to Maldhunga, Transfer to Pokhara: 28km Distance, 400m Elevation Gain
After breakfast, you'll start your ride from Tatopani to Maldhunga, covering a distance of 28km with an elevation gain of 400m. The ride will take you through scenic terraced farms, forested areas, and traditional villages. After reaching Maldhunga, you'll take a transfer back to Pokhara, where you'll have the rest of the day to relax, explore the city, or indulge in some adventure activities such as paragliding or zip-lining.
Day 15 - Transfer from Pokhara to Kathmandu
After breakfast, you'll take a scenic drive or flight back to Kathmandu, where you'll have the rest of the day to explore the city or do some last-minute shopping. You can also visit some of the famous cultural and historical sites such as Boudhanath Stupa, which is the largest stupa in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 16 - Departure
This day marks the end of the tour, and you'll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. If you have some time before your flight,
TRIP ENDS HERE!
GALLERY
Map
What's Included
All land transport in private vehicles including airport transfers, Support Vehicle.
All meals as per itinerary.
Professional and experienced guides with relevant qualifications
All permits and entry fees.
Porters for carrying your bags .
Comfortable accommodation during the adventure
Comprehensive support for all aspects of the trip
A detailed adventure information pack
Knowledgeable advisors to assist with trip planning
Regular updates about the adventure itinerary
Emphasis on safety and risk management
What's Not Included
Fees for visas to enter or exit the country
Travel & Medical insurance (compulsory and must include helicopter evacuation)
Medical costs that may be incurred during the trip
Lodging expenses before and after the adventure
Transportation to the adventure starting point
Rental fees for equipment needed during the adventure
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks consumed during the trip
Meals that are not part of the planned itinerary
Personal purchases made during the adventure
Optional additional activities that can be arranged for an extra cost.
Mandatory Documents
Identification document
Booking Receipt, if Booked Online (PDF will work)
Cancellation Policy
More than 30-days prior to departure - 50% refund.
In Between 15-30-days prior to departure - 25% refund.
Less than 15-days prior to departure - No Refund.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your tour guides for mountain biking in Nepal are seasoned professionals who are native to the region and have a genuine love for the country's culture and terrain. They prioritize your safety and strive to ensure that you have a memorable experience. Your guides will be readily available to assist with any inquiries or needs you may have during your journey.
Our priority is to provide the best experience to all participants, which is why we limit the size of our groups. Typically, our groups consist of 8 to 12 people. However, we require a minimum of 4 people to run our mountain bike tour in Nepal.
You are not required to carry all of your equipment with you. Instead, you only need to bring a 20-litre day pack while cycling. Our team provides a support vehicle and driver who will transport your luggage to your next lodging each day, ensuring that it is available for you upon arrival.
During your mountain bike tour in Nepal, if you encounter a trail section that seems difficult to ride, your guide will be pleased to provide you with some bike skills training to enhance your confidence and enjoyment. In case you do not feel comfortable riding a certain section, you can always dismount and walk through it. Remember, it is not a competition of biking skills, but a relaxing mountain biking vacation where everyone can take their own pace and enjoy the experience.
It is recommended to use a high-quality full suspension mountain bike with 120mm travel in both the front and rear. The terrain can be challenging in certain areas, and a full suspension bike will provide more comfort during the entire trip. However, it is still possible to ride a hardtail bike every day if that is your preference. Please keep in mind that the trails in Nepal can have thorns, so it's recommended to bring tubeless tires or tires with thicker walls and inner tubes. Bringing your own bike to Nepal is also advised.
To obtain a short-term tourist visa for Nepal, one can either buy it on arrival at the Kathmandu airport using cash in US dollars or purchase it in advance online through VisaHQ. It's important to note that personal checks, travelers' checks, and credit cards are not accepted as payment for the visa at the airport. Opting to buy the visa in advance can save time and hassle after a long flight.
In the event of injuries and emergencies, our guides are equipped with professional first aid kits to provide treatment for minor injuries. Additionally, health professionals are available at villages and camps throughout the journey. It is mandatory for travelers to have travel insurance which covers emergency rescue and evacuation expenses.
