Upper Mustang Bike Tour
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Upper Mustang Bike Tour

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  • DestinationTIA Kathmandu
  • Activity
  • Group Size
Bike Tour
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Overview of the Upper Mustang Bike Tour 

Adventure travel in Nepal is more than just visiting new places, it’s about experiencing Nepal in a way that excites, challenges and inspires you. Adventure travel in Nepal reaches a whole new level, because of its unmatched beauty, towering peaks, unique landscapes and rich culture. Nepal is a very popular destination, as it includes areas that were originally designed to keep the adventure alive and transform adventure enthusiasts. 

The Upper Mustang Bike Tour by Footprint Adventure is one of the hidden gem adventures, offering a thrilling biking experience. Situated in the heart of the Annapurna region, bordering China (the Tibet region), perfect adventure for adventure enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. The Upper Mustang Bike Tour is a 13-day guided tour that takes travellers through some of the most beautiful and remote regions in Nepal, offering a journey to remember. 

Your adventure begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, where you will be welcomed and transferred to your designated hotel. The next day, you will drive to Pokhara, a popular tourist gateway for adventure travel and then to Kalopnai Village. During the journey, the riders travel through scenic places like Muktinath, Jomsom, Marpha, and spend the night at Kaghbeni. From there, your ride continues towards Lo-Manthang. Lo-Manthang is the major highlight of the tour, the historic wall city that reflects the rich heritage of Upper Mustang. The city surprises you with its ancient monasteries, traditional settlements and unique landscapes that take you back in time. The return ride takes you through the unmatched beauty of Tatopani to Pokhara, where you will explore Pokhara with a bike or a jeep and drive back to Kathmandu, enjoying the natural surroundings. 

The 13-day Upper Mustang Bike Tour in Upper Mustang is conducted with great safety and comfort, prioritized by the experienced guide accompanying you, best-condition vehicles, and well-planned itineraries. Whether you are an experienced rider or an adventure enthusiast, this tour provides a perfect mixture of thrill, culture, and natural beauty, creating memories that last a lifetime with style. 

Highlights of Upper Mustang Bike Tour

  • Airport pick-up and transfer to your hotel. 
  • Cultural start at the city (UNESCO World Heritage Sites), trip preparation, paperwork and Bike check. 
  • Scenic ride to Pokhara City, a popular gateway for adventure travel. 
  • Adventure ride through the Himalayan landscapes, experience off-road thrill. 
  • Explore and receive blessings at the most sacred sites for both Hindus and Buddhists: The Muktinath Temple 
  • Explore the traditional villages of Mustang: Marpha, Kagbeni, and Kalopani
  • Enter Upper Mustang: Explore Lo-manathnag (The walled city). 
  • Ride at elevations above 3000-4000 meters
  • Drive your way back through the Jomosom Bazar, Tatopani and finally to Pokhara
  • Explore Pokhara city: Lakeside relaxation and sightseeing.

Is this tour right for you? 

This tour is right for you if: 

  • Accept that the challenges will occur and have the mental courage to tackle them. 
  • You have prior experience in mountain biking and rough-road biking skills. 
  • Physical strength, endurance to ride continuously for more than 5-8 hours daily. 
  • Experience in riding on remote, strong windy roads. 

The tour is not right for you if: 

  • You are a beginner mountain biker or rider. 
  • You have not prepared for high-altitude sickness an dendurance. 
  • You are looking for an easy, lightweight cycling experience.

Difficulty Level 

The Upper Mustang bike Tour is often categorized as moderate to challenging. It highly demands physical strength and solid off-road bike handling skills to manage your ride in rocky landscapes. Additionally, it requires tough mental strength since the riders are gonna ride for more than 5-8 hours daily on rocky terrain, high-altitude endurance, as the riders often pass more than 4000 meters.

However, if you have previous experience of mountain motorbike riding and possess tough physical stamina and mental state, you may find this adventure suitable and moderate.  

Best Time to do the Upper Mustang Bike Tour

The best time to do the Upper Mustang Bike Tour is from March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn). During these months, the weather is stable, dry, with moderate temperatures and clear mountain views. Spring offers the beautiful scenery of blooming flowers and an opportunity to witness the Tiji festival. On the other hand, Spring provides clear skies and visibility of the mountains. 

Key Considerations: 

  • Best Time/Spring (March to May): Warmer days, green hills, blooming rhododendrons and scenic landscapes make the tour visually appealing. 
  • Second Best Time/ Autumn (September to November): Clear views after the monsoon, dry trails, pleasant air, but busier and crowded trails. 
  • Monsoon (June to August): Heavy rainfalls, you could ride, but most of the lower areas, like Jomsom, Kagbeni, are restricted due to landslides. Many hotels and accommodations close down, leaving few options.     
  • Winter (December to February): Very cold and challenging because the passes are blocked by snow, often making you lose visibility. 

How to Prepare for the tour? 

  • The Upper Mustang Bike tour requires proper planning and preparations,  it cannot be done individually and independently.
  • Before starting, book through a registered travel agency to obtain your restricted area permits and Annapurna Conservation Area permits (ACAP). 
  • Focus on regular cardio and strength training, as you are mostly going to be at high altitudes and challenging terrain. 
  • Riders can bring their own sleeping bag, duffel bag, layered clothes and portable items. However, most travel agencies offer sleeping bags and duffel bags. So, it is often optional. 
  • Plan your tour during the best time, spring, when the weather and temperature are stable, providing you with the proper opportunity to witness clear mountain views, ensuring you enjoy the tour to the fullest. 

Why Choose Footprint Adventure? 

Footprint Adventure is a locally operating travel agency, experienced in conducting various kinds of treks and climbing in Nepal. From the moment you land in Nepal, we provide services like airport pickup, qualitative accommodation, and prep sessions.

Footprint Adventure manages permits on your behalf: both restricted and Annapurna Conservation Area permit (ACAP) to ensure your travel goes smoothly. We provide on-site mechanics for your ride repair in case of a breakdown or any other issue. Additionally, we offer sleeping bags, duffel bags with travel expertise and trusted guides, priotizing riders safety. As Acute Mountain Sickness is the major problem, at Footprint, your accommodation and acclimatization are planned according to it. 

You'll See

Bike Tour In Mustang
Bike Tour Photo
Boudhanath Stupa
Chhoser Cave
Dal Bhat Set
Dhumba Lake
Kaghbeni
Landscape Of Mustang
Lo Manthang
Muktinath Temple
Mustang Region

Itinerary

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We offer opportunities to customize your trip! Consider adding a Kathmandu sightseeing tour, other adventure activities, or day trips around Nepal before or after your trek. Feel free to contact us.

Please understand that our itinerary might need adjustments due to unforeseen circumstances like flight delays, weather conditions, or natural disasters. In such cases, we'll work diligently to find the best alternative solutions to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trek. Your cooperation and flexibility are highly appreciated during these times.

Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, a Footprint Adventure representative will meet you and escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Following check-in, you’ll have some time to relax and adjust to jet lag. 

In the evening, a special welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant is accompanied by a cultural performance showcasing local music and dance. You'll also be introduced to your trekking guide for your 13-day Upper Mustang Bike Tour during dinner, followed by an overnight stay in the city.

  • Accommodation Kantipur Village Hotel
  • Maximum Altitude1300 m

A half-day guided cultural tour to major UNESCO heritage sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Patan Darbar Square. In the afternoon, we proceed with a motorcycle check-up, motorcycle specifications, a short test ride, and finalization of permits, including the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit.

  • Accommodation Kantipur Village Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast & Welcome Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude1300 m

The ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara begins along the Prithvi Highway, following the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers. The ride offers scenic views of terraced hills, rivers, and rural settlements. Construction work in some parts of the highway.

  • Accommodation Abas Pokhara
  • Time6-8 hours
  • Maximum Altitude830 m

After reaching Beni (the main route connecting Pokhara to the Mustang region), the adventure off-road begins. The travel from Tatopani to Kalopani may take some time based on the road conditions. Additionally, you’ll experience a significant altitude gain. 

  • Accommodation Standard Hotel
  • Maximum Altitude2530 m

Ride and explore Muktinath Temple, one of Nepal’s most sacred Hindu and Buddhist sites. After cultural and spiritual exploration, ascend to Kagbeni via Jomsom and Marpha (famous for apples). 

  • Accommodation Standard Hotel
  • Maximum Altitude2810 m

Lo Manathang is the "Forbidden Kingdom"  of Upper Mustang. Upon entering, the landscape shifts to desert terrain with unique rock formations and ancient Tibetan settlements.

Note: Lo Manathang is a restricted and protected area, so you need a permit to access the area. 

  • Accommodation Standard Hotel
  • Maximum Altitude3810 m

An acclimatization day dedicated to slow riding and exploring Lo Manthang. 

  • Accommodation Standard Hotel
  • Maximum Altitude3810 m

Route back with off-road terrain experience. The familiar terrain allows for a smoother and more controlled ride.

  • Accommodation Standard Hotel
  • Maximum Altitude2720 m

Descend significantly in altitude as the landscape transitions from arid Mustang to lush greenery. Arrive at Tatopani and relax in natural hot springs.

  • Accommodation Standard Hotel
  • Maximum Altitude1190 m

After days of riding through the dry and rugged landscapes of Mustang, today’s journey takes you out of Tatopani and towards Pokhara. As you progress, the environment becomes greener and more humid, with improved infrastructure compared to the upper regions.

  • Accommodation Abas Pokhara
  • Maximum Altitude830 m

This day is dedicated to rest, recovery, and flexible exploration after the demanding off-road journey. Pokhara offers a perfect balance of relaxation and light adventure.

  • Accommodation Abas Pokhara
  • Maximum Altitude830 m

The final riding day takes you back to Kathmandu. A perfect chance to travel through hills, rivers and small roadside towns, providing a final glimpse of Nepal’s diverse landscapes.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. 

  • Accommodation Kantipur Village Hotel
  • Maximum Altitude1300 m

Your Upper Mustang Bike Tour concludes today. After breakfast, our team will arrange a comfortable transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport. 

As you depart, you carry with you unforgettable memories of riding through some of the most remote and dramatic landscapes in the Himalayas. 

  • Maximum Altitude1300 m

Additional Info

Accomodation in the city (Kathmandu & Pokhara)

As a part of your 13-Day Upper Mustang Trek, by default, Footprint Adventure accommodates you for 2 nights in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara with twin-sharing rooms, but travellers who prefer personal space and privacy can upgrade their rooms at an additional cost. 

Accommodation details: Kantipur Village Hotel, Kumari Boutique Hotel, Kathmandu Business Hotel, Abas Pokhara. 

Accomodation during the trek

Each night during your 13-day off-road bike tour, you’re going to stay in comfortable teahouses and lodges on a twin-sharing basis. When you elevate further, extra facilities and services may be limited to simple but comfortable. After a long day of riding and fatigue, a warm welcome and hospitality are not compromised. Even though the rooms are common with attached or shared washroom, it is neatly organized. The hotels/ lodges provides you with basic furnishings such as mattresses, pillows, and blankets. 

Hotel Upgrade Option 

Our team carefully selects hotels in the city for your comfortable stay. However, if you have different preferences, you can upgrade the accommodation of your choice, subject to additional cost. 

  • Upgrade to a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu  - 120 USD per night pp in BB
  • Upgrade to a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu - 250 USD per night pp in BB
  • Single supplement - 300 USD per person

Transportation Details 

The Upper Mustang Bike Tour begins with your drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a popular gateway for adventure travel. All the necessary transport, like the airport pickup and city tours, is done through Footprint’s private vehicle. 

Motorbike is your main mode of transportation during your tour, adventure bikes with great suspension, and dirt or semi-dirt tyres are chosen. In your return trip to Pokhara, exploration of the Pokhara city is done through a jeep/ bike. 

Permits & Entrance fees

The visitation to Upper Mustang requires obtaining permits, including the Mustang restricted Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS). You can easily obtain all your permits from the local trekking agencies of your choice. You must arrange permits with a reputable and trusted operating travel agency to ensure smooth travel. 

  • Restricted Area Permit (RAP): $500 for the first 10 days (An additional $50 for each extra day) 
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $27 NPR 3000
  • Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card: $10 for group hikers and $20 for solo hikers. 

Internet, Network and Electricity 

  • Both Ncell and NTC (Nepal Telecommunications) work in the lower regions (Pokhara to Jomsom), but beyond Kagbeni, NTC works. However, the signal can be very unreliable. 
  • The Internet is available, but very limited throughout the Upper Mustang region. Wi-fi is accessible in many teahouses of Kagbeni and Lo-Manthang; using the internet connection usually costs NPR 200-300; however, the connection can be slow and unreliable. 
  • Charging electronics is possible at lodges, but it requires you to pay small fees, NPR 300-500 per hour. The source of generating electricity is either solar energy or hydropower. 

Food and Dining 

  • During the trek, we will provide all three meals as part of the package. Breakfast and dinner are served at the lodges, while lunch is prepared fresh along the trail at local guesthouses or restaurants during your tour.
  • The standard food options during the Upper Mustang Bike Tour include Momo (dumplings), Thukpa (noodle soup), Tsampa, Butter Tea (Po Cha), Tibetan Bread, eggs, pancakes, omelettes, and seasonal fruit, which we provide as a complimentary item. The most common and filling meal is Dal Bhat, which comes with free refills to provide plenty of energy for the trek.
  • Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are available, along with seasonal fruits. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please let us know in advance so we can accommodate your needs.

Drinking Water and Hydration Tips 

  • In villages of Mustang ( Jomson, Kagbeni, and Lo-Manthang) bottled water are easily accessible. 
  • As you reach at higher regions hotels/ lodges provide you with boiled water at a estimated cost. However, as you elevate further more water is limited and expensive. So, it is advised to do bring water purification tablets or rely on boiled water at lodges.

Group Leader and Crew

  • You’ll be accompanied throughout the trek by experienced, licensed mountain guides from our team, trained in wilderness skills and first aid.
  • In case of any breakdowns, we are accompained by mechanics to observe the issue and fix with possible solution. 
  • For groups of more than 5 people, we provide an additional assistant guide to ensure extra care and support.

Tour Equipments 

It's not necessary to spend a lot of money on extra equipment and clothing before your trip. The majority of these gears can be bought at reasonable prices in Kathmandu. 

We provide a detailed packing list to ensure you have everything you need for the, Upper Mustang Bike Tour, including essential gear for various weather conditions. Don't hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions about what to pack for the Upper Mustang Bike Tour . 

High Altitude Sickness 

  • During the Upper Mustang Bike tour, you are required to climb to higher and higher elevations (usually above 3800 meters). In this case, the risk of Altitude Sickness is higher. Prevention through proper accimatization, hydration, and rest is essential to ensure a safe journey. 
  • Upper Mustang is usually underestimated because it's not as fierce as the Everest region, but altitude does not think so. Even physically fit people can get sick. 
  • At Footprint Adventure, your itineraries are designed in a way that allows you to acclimate to elevation gains, but it is also necessary to be mentally and physically prepared. 
  • At rising elevations, experiences such as dizziness, headache (most common), Nausea/ vomiting, fatigue or shortness of breath can be felt. 
  • If experiencing symptoms, it is important to watch yourself closely, communicate with your guide, and rest when needed. In case the symptoms worsen, it's required to descend immediately. Following these helps make sure your Upper Mustang Bike tour goes smoothly, and you can enjoy beautiful scenarios ahead. 

Weather and Climate 

The weather in Upper Mustang region is quite unique compared to the lower regions or other regions in Nepal. The overall climate is quite dry, windy and less rainfall. Additionally, the weather are often unpredictable. While the day time is often aired and dry, the night time is much more cold and windy in higher elevations. Due to this,  it is essential to layer up and keep yourself hydrated, even though the dry air makes it impossible. Weather is usually stable during day and night time respectively but often windy. 

Altitude Chart 

01Kathmandu1300 m 
02Pokhara830 m 
03Tatopani1190 m 
04 Kalopani2530  m
05Jomsom2720 m 
06 Kagbeni 2810 m 
07Lo Manthang 3810 m 

Travel Insurance 

Travel insurance is very important for the Upper Mustang Bike Tour. Make sure the policy includes emergency high-altitude rescue, evacuation, and medical coverage. To see which insurance is better for the trek, check out our guide on Travel insurance required for trekking in Nepal.

Tipping Guidelines 

Tipping is not mandatory in the Upper Mustang Bike Tour. However, it is widely accepted and appreciated. Tipping is a very common way to appreciate the hard work that the team and crew puts out to ensure that your travel goes smoothly, without you worrying about anything.

General guideline

  • Guides or porters (if applicable) are tipped at the end of the tour. 
  • Tipping can be done according to your satisfaction through service or budget. 

Booking and Cancellation Policy 

To secure your Upper Mustang Bike Tour package, we will require photocopies of each traveler's passport for booking. You should also provide us with a copy of your Nepal arrival flight schedule or an estimated date of arrival so we can arrange your trek package at your convenience. Finally, you can finalize your booking by paying an advance of 20% of the cost of the trek package. You can go through our entire booking process and conditions so that you have a smooth experience from start to finish.

Cancellation Charges and Conditions

  • 25 or more days before departure: 20% of the total cost
  • 18–24 days before departure: 40% of the total cost
  • 10–17 days before departure: 50% of the total cost
  • Less than 10 days from trek start date: 70% of the total cost
  • Once the trek starts from Kathmandu, no refunds will be provided.
  • Rescheduling: You can reschedule your trek to a future date without any extra charges, as long as you notify us at least 15 days before your originally scheduled start date. 

Trip Customization 

The trip can be customized according to the needs and requirements of the customers. Travellers can customize their stay, extend rest days, or include additional routes along the tour. You can extend your time to travel alternate routes in the Annapurna region and add other routes with prior notice. It is to notify that the customization involves additional cost and your requirements should be notified beforehand. 

 

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