Mountain
Upper Mustang Bike Tour – 12 Days

Upper Mustang Bike Tour – 12 Days

Duration :   11 Nights/12 Days
Places Covered :  
  • Kathmandu
  • Pokhara
  • Kalopani
  • Samar
  • Lo Manthang
  • Chhoser
  • Muktinath
  • Tatopani

The Upper Mustang Bike Tour is an extraordinary Himalayan adventure designed for motorcycle enthusiasts and off-road riders seeking rugged trails, remote landscapes, and an authentic cultural experience. Known for its dramatic desert-like terrain, ancient settlements, and challenging mountain roads, Upper Mustang offers a journey far beyond the ordinary.

Often referred to as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” Upper Mustang has preserved many of its traditional Tibetan-influenced customs, architecture, and religious practices. The walled city of Lo Manthang, ancient monasteries, centuries-old villages, and remarkable cave settlements provide a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history and cultural heritage.

The ride takes you through changing landscapes—from the green hills and river valleys around Pokhara to the dry, windswept highlands of Mustang. Along the way, you will navigate gravel roads, rocky trails, mountain passes, river crossings, and remote Himalayan settlements. These challenging riding conditions are an essential part of the experience, making the tour particularly appealing to adventure riders.

Upper Mustang was historically connected to the trans-Himalayan trade routes between Tibet and Nepal. Its Tibetan Buddhist heritage remains visible in the region’s monasteries, prayer walls, chortens, traditional homes, and religious artwork. The ancient caves around Chhoser further add to the mystery and cultural significance of the journey.

This tour also includes visits to Muktinath, the sacred pilgrimage site, and Tatopani, where you can relax in natural hot springs after several demanding days on the road. The journey concludes in Pokhara before returning to Kathmandu.

Combining motorcycle adventure, cultural exploration, scenic landscapes, and relaxation, the Upper Mustang Bike Tour is an experience for riders who want to explore one of Nepal’s most distinctive and remote regions.


Package Highlights

  • Experience an exciting motorcycle journey through the rugged landscapes of Upper Mustang.
  • Ride challenging off-road trails, rocky roads, mountain passes, and remote Himalayan routes.
  • Explore Lo Manthang, the historic capital of the former Kingdom of Lo.
  • Discover ancient monasteries, traditional villages, chortens, and Tibetan-influenced architecture.
  • Visit the remarkable cave settlements and monasteries around Chhoser.
  • Cross the dramatic landscapes of the Kali Gandaki Valley.
  • Visit the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath.
  • Relax in the natural hot springs of Tatopani.
  • Enjoy scenic riding through Pokhara and the surrounding Himalayan foothills.
  • Experience the cultural and geographical transition from Nepal’s green lowlands to its high-altitude desert landscapes.

Daywise Itinerary

Your Upper Mustang Bike Tour begins with your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. As your flight approaches Nepal, you may enjoy aerial views of the country’s hills and, depending on weather conditions and your flight route, glimpses of the Himalayan mountain ranges.

After landing, you will proceed to the immigration area to complete the arrival formalities. Travelers should ensure that they have the required passport and visa documentation before entering Nepal. Visa requirements, fees, and supporting documents may vary depending on nationality, so it is advisable to confirm the latest requirements before traveling.

Once you have completed immigration and collected your luggage, our representative will welcome you outside the terminal and transfer you to your hotel.

After checking in and taking some time to rest, you will attend a short introductory meeting. This gathering provides an opportunity to meet the team, discuss the upcoming motorcycle adventure, review the itinerary, and receive essential information about the journey.

  • Activity: Airport Arrival and Trip Briefing
  • Maximum Altitude: 1,350 m / 4,429 ft – Kathmandu
  • Accommodation: Hotel

The second day combines cultural sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley with preparations for your upcoming motorcycle journey.

After breakfast, you will explore selected historical and cultural attractions in and around Kathmandu. Depending on your interests and available time, the sightseeing program may include historic palaces, temples, courtyards, and traditional urban settlements.

One of the potential attractions is the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, which provides insight into Nepal’s royal history and political heritage. You may also visit Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, a historic royal complex associated with Kathmandu’s former rulers.

Other possible sightseeing destinations include Krishna Mandir, Patan Museum, Pottery Square, and Changu Narayan Temple. The final selection of sites can be adjusted according to the standard itinerary, opening hours, traffic conditions, and your preferences.

Some attractions require entrance tickets, which may not be included in the Upper Mustang Bike Tour package. Your guide will provide further information about the sightseeing arrangements.

Later in the day, you will return to the hotel and prepare for the motorcycle expedition. The team will review the riding schedule, equipment, safety considerations, and other important details before the journey begins.

  • Activity: Sightseeing and Trip Preparation
  • Maximum Altitude: 1,350 m / 4,429 ft – Kathmandu
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Distance: Approximately 210 km | Duration: 7–8 hours

After breakfast, you will begin your motorcycle journey from Kathmandu towards Pokhara. The route initially takes you through busy city roads before reaching Naubise, where you connect with the Prithvi Highway.

The ride introduces you to Nepal’s varied landscapes, including winding hills, river valleys, rural settlements, and roadside towns. As you leave the Kathmandu Valley, you will navigate the winding roads towards Naubise before continuing westward.

The route passes through areas associated with Dhading, Chitwan, Tanahun, and Kaski, with stops arranged along the way for refreshments, rest breaks, and lunch. Places such as Malekhu, Mugling, Kurintar, and Anbukhaireni provide opportunities to pause during the journey.

The highway follows sections of the Trishuli and other river valleys, with hills and settlements accompanying you throughout the ride. Road conditions and traffic can vary, so maintaining a steady pace and following the ride leader’s instructions will be important.

As you approach Pokhara, the surrounding landscape becomes increasingly scenic. On clear days, you may catch glimpses of Himalayan peaks from suitable viewpoints along the route.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will check in at your hotel. In the evening, you can relax around Lakeside and Phewa Lake, explore the surrounding area, or enjoy a quiet meal before resting for the next day’s ride.

  • Activity: Motorcycle Ride – 7–8 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 800 m / 2,625 ft – Pokhara
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Distance: Approximately 125 km | Duration: 5–6 hours

Today, you will leave Pokhara and begin riding towards Kalopani, a mountain settlement situated along the route into the Mustang region. The ride includes paved sections, winding mountain roads, and increasingly rugged terrain.

After departing from Lakeside, you will travel through Hemja and continue towards the northern mountain corridor. The route offers views of the Annapurna region and surrounding hills as you progress towards the Kali Gandaki Valley.

You will pass through or near destinations such as Nayapul, Kusma, Baglung, Beni, and Tatopani. Breaks will be arranged along the way, with lunch planned at a suitable stop.

As you move farther north, the landscape begins to change. The lush surroundings gradually give way to steeper mountain terrain and narrower roads. After passing through Tatopani and continuing via Lete, you will reach Kalopani.

Located in the Annapurna region, Kalopani offers beautiful mountain scenery and a blend of local cultural influences, including Thakali traditions. After checking in at your guest house, you will have time to relax and explore the surrounding area, depending on your arrival time and weather conditions.

  • Activity: Motorcycle Ride – 5–6 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 2,530 m / 8,301 ft – Kalopani
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House

Distance: Approximately 65 km | Duration: 4–5 hours

Today marks a significant transition into the more remote landscapes of Mustang. Although the riding distance is relatively short, challenging road conditions, rocky surfaces, and changing terrain can make the journey demanding.

After leaving Kalopani, you will continue through the Kali Gandaki Valley towards Ghasa and Lete. The landscape includes forested sections, riverbanks, gravel roads, and narrow stretches of trail. Riding conditions may vary depending on weather, construction, and seasonal road maintenance.

As you continue north, you will pass through Marpha and Jomsom, two important settlements in the Mustang region. Marpha is known for its traditional architecture, local apple production, and cultural heritage. It provides a pleasant location for a rest break and lunch.

From Jomsom, the route continues towards Kagbeni. After completing any necessary fuel arrangements, you will proceed farther into Upper Mustang. The scenery gradually becomes drier and more barren, with fewer trees and more exposed rock formations.

You will pass through Kagbeni and continue towards Chele before climbing towards the Taklam La Pass, listed at approximately 3,624 meters. The pass offers striking views of the surrounding Mustang landscape and provides an opportunity to pause and appreciate the changing geography.

After completing the climb, you will continue towards Samar, where you will spend the night in a guest house.

  • Activity: Motorcycle Ride – 4–5 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 3,650 m / 11,975 ft – Samar
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House

Distance: Approximately 63 km | Duration: 5–6 hours

Today’s ride takes you deeper into the heart of Upper Mustang, with Lo Manthang as your destination. The journey involves challenging ascents, narrow trails, uneven surfaces, and exposed mountain terrain.

The initial sections of the ride require careful handling as you navigate steep and rugged roads. Your ride leader will help coordinate the group and guide you through difficult sections according to road and weather conditions.

One of the day’s key stops is Ghami, a historic village known for its traditional architecture, monastery, and long mani wall. The village provides an opportunity to appreciate the region’s religious heritage and distinctive cultural landscape.

You will then continue towards Nyi La Pass, listed at approximately 4,010 meters. The ascent may involve loose gravel, sharp turns, and challenging road surfaces. At the pass, you can pause to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Mustang mountains and valleys.

After descending from the pass, you will reach Tsarang, also known as Charang. The village is known for its traditional settlement, historic fortress, and monastery containing culturally significant artifacts and artwork.

From Tsarang, the route continues towards Lo Manthang through a dry, open landscape. As you approach the destination, the distinctive walls and traditional buildings of the former Kingdom of Lo gradually come into view.

Upon reaching Lo Manthang, you will check in at your guest house and have time to rest after the demanding ride.

  • Activity: Motorcycle Ride – 5–6 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 3,860 m / 12,664 ft – Lo Manthang
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House

Day 7 is dedicated to exploring the cultural and historical attractions around Lo Manthang. While the day involves less riding than the previous stages, you will use your motorcycles to visit nearby sites, including the remarkable cave settlements of Chhoser.

After breakfast, you will ride approximately 11 kilometers towards Chhoser. The route passes through the surrounding settlements and landscapes, with traditional monasteries, chortens, and dry mountain valleys visible along the way.

Upon reaching Chhoser village, you will park your motorcycles and continue on foot towards the cave complex. The caves are carved into the cliffs and are associated with the region’s ancient settlement history and religious traditions. Some accounts attribute considerable antiquity to these structures,.

The cave complex is known for its multiple levels, interconnected rooms, ladders, and distinctive interior spaces. Traditional paintings and religious imagery may be found in some areas, subject to access and preservation conditions.

You will also visit the nearby Niphu and Garphu monasteries, which are situated on elevated ridges and offer views of the surrounding valley. These sites provide insight into the religious and architectural heritage of Upper Mustang.

After exploring the area, you will return to Lo Manthang for rest and an overnight stay.

  • Activity: Cultural Exploration and Short Motorcycle Excursion
  • Maximum Altitude: 3,860 m / 12,664 ft – Lo Manthang
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House

Distance: Approximately 105 km | Duration: 6–7 hours Today, you will begin your return journey from Lo Manthang towards Muktinath. The route retraces sections of the Upper Mustang trail and includes rugged roads, mountain passes, river valleys, and remote settlements. As you leave Lo Manthang, you will ride through the dry landscapes of Mustang, with views of the surrounding mountains and distant Himalayan peaks. The route continues towards Ghami before reaching the Nyi La Pass, one of the highest points encountered during the tour. After crossing the pass, you will descend towards Samar and continue through the Mustang landscape towards Kagbeni, passing settlements such as Chhusang along the way. Kagbeni provides a suitable location for a lunch break and rest. From there, you will continue towards Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage destination located at approximately 3,710 meters. Upon arrival, you will check in at your guest house and have time to rest. Depending on your arrival time and weather conditions, you may also explore the surrounding area.

  • Activity: Motorcycle Ride – 6–7 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 3,710 m / 12,172 ft – Muktinath
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House

Distance: Approximately 70 km | Duration: 4–5 hours

Your day begins with an optional early-morning visit to Muktinath Temple, an important pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. After the visit, you will return for breakfast before beginning your ride towards Tatopani.

As you descend from the high-altitude Mustang region, the surrounding environment gradually changes. The dry and barren landscapes give way to greener valleys, forests, agricultural areas, and more vegetation.

The route follows sections of the Kali Gandaki Valley, with views of mountain slopes, villages, and river landscapes along the way. Road conditions may vary, so riders should remain attentive, particularly on uneven or gravel sections.

Your destination is Tatopani, a settlement known for its natural hot springs. After arriving and checking in at your guest house, you can enjoy a relaxing soak in the warm spring water, subject to availability and local operating conditions.

The hot springs provide a pleasant opportunity to unwind after several demanding days of motorcycle riding.

  • Activity: Motorcycle Ride – 4–5 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 1,200 m / 3,937 ft – Tatopani
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House

Distance: Approximately 105 km | Duration: 4–5 hours

After breakfast, you will leave Tatopani and begin the ride towards Pokhara. The route follows the Kali Gandaki Valley and passes through increasingly green landscapes as you descend to lower elevations.

Along the way, you will encounter terraced farmland, rivers, villages, and mountain scenery. After approximately 30 kilometers, you will reach Beni, an important town along the route. From Beni, the journey continues towards Pokhara.

The road and scenery gradually change as you move away from the highlands. Depending on weather conditions and visibility, you may enjoy views of the Annapurna range and surrounding hills.

After completing the ride, you will arrive in Pokhara, marking the conclusion of the main highland motorcycle journey. You will check in at your hotel and have time to relax or explore the Lakeside area.

  • Activity: Motorcycle Ride – 4–5 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 800 m / 2,625 ft – Pokhara
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Distance: Approximately 210 km | Duration: 7–8 hours

Your Upper Mustang motorcycle adventure comes to an end as you ride from Pokhara back to Kathmandu.

After breakfast, you will follow the highway through the hills and river valleys of central Nepal. The journey provides an opportunity to reflect on the experiences of the previous days, from the remote landscapes of Upper Mustang to the cultural heritage of Lo Manthang and the sacred site of Muktinath.

If you would like to explore more of Pokhara before departing, an additional sightseeing program may be arranged, subject to your schedule and travel requirements. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you will check in at your hotel and have time to rest. A farewell dinner may be arranged according to the confirmed package inclusions.

  • Activity: Motorcycle Ride – 7–8 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 1,300 m / 4,265 ft – Kathmandu
  • Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Your Upper Mustang Bike Tour officially concludes on the final day. After breakfast, you will have some free time depending on your flight schedule. Our representative will arrange your transfer to the airport at the appropriate time. You will then depart Nepal with memories of the challenging mountain roads, remote Himalayan settlements, ancient monasteries, and remarkable landscapes experienced throughout the journey. We appreciate you joining us on this adventure and hope to welcome you again for another journey through Nepal.

  • Activity: Airport Transfer and Departure
  • Maximum Altitude: 1,300 m / 4,265 ft – Kathmandu
  • Meals: Breakfast

Package Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions

  • Airport pickup and drop-off.
  • Hotel and guest house accommodation as per the itinerary.
  • Meals as specified in the day-by-day itinerary.
  • Experienced ride leader / guide.
  • Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit.
  • Motorcycle hire and fuel: confirmed on request – please contact us.
  • No Hidden Fees/Costs.

Exclusions

  • International airfare and Nepal visa fees.
  • Travel and riding insurance.
  • Entrance fees in Kathmandu.
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Tips for guides and support staff.

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