20 Days
16
Moderate
Upper Mustang Biking is a challenging and adventurous ride, suitable for experienced riders. Upper Mustang is all about desert-like topography. Hence, the cycling experience in this region can be full of adventure. This Upper Mustang Biking Tour is designed in such a way that one can enjoy biking along with breathtaking sceneries.
Itinerary
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel in Thamel. Attend a briefing about the trip, check your bikes and gear, and get a good rest before the adventure begins.
Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu
Morning domestic flight to Pokhara. Transfer to Nayapul, where the biking journey begins with a short ride along the Kali Gandaki River. Then drive to Beni town to acclimatize and prepare for the high-altitude ride ahead.
Overnight at guesthouse in Beni
Drive early morning to Jomsom, gateway to Upper Mustang. Begin biking from Jomsom, following the Kali Gandaki River towards Kagbeni, a medieval village at the entrance to the Mustang region.
Distance: Approx. 20 km
Overnight at guesthouse in Kagbeni
A challenging ride climbing gradually along the Kali Gandaki Gorge with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and cliffs. Pass through traditional villages and ancient caves.
Distance: Approx. 30 km
Overnight at guesthouse in Chhusang
The trail passes through lunar-like landscapes, deep canyons, and Tibetan-style villages. This section features several river crossings and rough rocky tracks.
Distance: Approx. 25 km
Overnight at guesthouse in Samar
Climbing steadily with some tough ascents, you enter Mustang’s famous plateaus. Enjoy views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and explore the quaint village of Ghami.
Distance: Approx. 20 km
Overnight at guesthouse in Ghami
Ride across Mustang’s high desert plateau, passing monasteries and chortens (Buddhist shrines). Tsarang is an ancient capital with a beautiful fortress and gompa.
Distance: Approx. 18 km
Overnight at guesthouse in Tsarang
Today’s ride is one of the highlights—reaching the walled city of Lo Manthang, the heart of Upper Mustang. Explore the town, its monasteries, and ancient architecture.
Distance: Approx. 30 km
Overnight at guesthouse in Lo Manthang
Use this day to acclimatize and explore the ancient town and nearby caves, chapels, and monasteries. Optional hike to the sacred cave of Ghar Gompa or visit the Mustang Cultural Museum.
Descend from Lo Manthang following the Kali Gandaki River. Ride through remote villages and traditional settlements with stunning cliffs around.
Distance: Approx. 40 km
Overnight at guesthouse in Chhoser
Backtrack on a different route through rugged terrain, passing through deep gorges and isolated villages.
Distance: Approx. 30 km
Overnight at guesthouse in Samar
Descend back towards Jomsom along easier terrain, with plenty of chances to enjoy the river valley’s beauty.
Distance: Approx. 40 km
Overnight at guesthouse in Jomsom
A short and scenic ride to Marpha, a charming town famous for its apple orchards and Tibetan culture. Explore local markets and monasteries.
Distance: Approx. 18 km
Overnight at guesthouse in Marpha
Descend dramatically towards Tatopani (meaning “hot water”), famous for its natural hot springs. Relax and soak in the therapeutic waters after days of riding.
Distance: Approx. 40 km
Overnight at guesthouse in Tatopani
Recover with a day of relaxation. Optional visit to local villages or additional soak in the hot springs.
Begin a long uphill ride to Ghasa, passing through terraced hillsides and rural villages.
Distance: Approx. 40 km
Overnight at guesthouse in Ghasa
Ride back to Beni via forest trails and small villages. A tough but rewarding ride through changing landscapes.
Distance: Approx. 55 km
Overnight at guesthouse in Beni
Drive from Beni to Pokhara. Rest day in Pokhara with time to explore the lakeside city and enjoy great food.
Overnight at hotel in Pokhara
Morning flight back to Kathmandu. Free time for shopping, sightseeing, or souvenir hunting in Thamel.
Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international flight home.
Cost Includes
- Round trip air ticket from Pokhara to Jomsom including airport tax.
- Farewell dinner with cultural dance program in Kathmandu on the night before departure.
- If you wish to stay more than 10 days in restricted area, additional US$ 90 per day / per person).
- DINNER
- Special Upper Mustang Permit US$ 700 per person for 10 days
- Guided city tour in Kathmandu and Pokhara on a private tourist vehicle.
- Twin sharing accommodation in a two three star hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara; Breakfast Included.
- Pick up from and drop off service from Airport and Hotel on a private tourist vehicle.
- Lunch
- Rented accommodation and equipment during the camping.
- Ground transportation to and from Kathmandu.
- Entry permits and fees for all temples, parks, monasteries, and cultural and historical sites.
- Licensed English-speaking mountain biking guide(s).
- All government taxes and official expenses.
- Accommodation in different guesthouses during the biking trip below upper Mustang, with full board
- All your standard Meals prepared by our expert camping cook and kitchen team while in Upper Mustang
- Breakfast
- The required number of local staff, porters and mules to carry your luggage in the biking trip.
- The brands include Cube, Trek and Giant hardtail or full-suspension bikes, depending on your choice.
- Annapurna conservation permit, and all necessary permits.
Cost Excludes
- Tips for biking guide.
- Round trip air ticket from/to your home country to Kathmandu.
- All items of personal nature like drinks, laundry etc.
- Biking attire and other personal gears.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara – about US $20 per person per day.
- Travel insurance
Notes
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
- Traveler pickup is offered
Our airport representative will receive you from Kathmandu International airport and transfer you to the hotel. Your guide will meet you in the hotel to brief about the trip.
Airports
- Tribhuvan Airport, Kathmandu Nepal
- You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.