Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour-Epic Trek Nepal
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Trip Duration
10 Days
Destination
Nepal
Max. Altitude
3,840 m.
Trip Difficulty
Moderate
Group Size
2-16 pax
Transportation
Bus , Flight
Activity
Tour
Start / End
Kathmandu
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+977 9764792172Trip Overview
Explore the thrilling Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour, a captivating journey of Himalayan exploration and off-road biking. Traverse the Mustang Circuit, uncovering ancient caves, Buddhist monasteries, and remote villages for an unparalleled cultural immersion. Upper Mustang is an extraordinary destination for risk-takers and adventure enthusiasts, showcasing the majestic Lo Manthang, a sacred kingdom surrounded by the world’s highest mountain ranges.
After visiting the revered Muktinath Temple and navigating through desert landscapes, including indigenous monasteries and observing daily livelihoods, a profound sense of tradition fills you. The distance from Kathmandu to Upper Mustang by Motorbike spans approximately 462 kilometers (287 miles), with travel time dictated by road conditions. The journey from Pokhara to Upper Mustang spans 220 kilometers and takes around 6 hours and 30 minutes.
This Motorbike adventure is ideal for experienced riders seeking to explore Nepal’s unique rain shadow area, Upper Mustang, while acclimatizing to rising altitudes. The highest point on this tour is 3,840 meters at Lo Manthang, providing breathtaking views of 8000m mountains like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Massifs. Experience picturesque Tibetan settlements, rich cultures and a distinctive lifestyle along the way.
The Costs for the Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour range from USD 2350 to USD 4000 per person, depending on the package and services offered by various tour companies. The motorbike Tour route covers Kathmandu, Pokhara, Tatopani, Kagbeni, Muktinath, Ghami, Lo-manthang, and Chhoser ensuring an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Himalayas.
Experience an unforgettable Upper Mustang motorbike tour with Epic Trek Nepal Pvt Ltd, tailored to your preferences whether budget-friendly or luxurious. We handle all planning for your dream trip. Relax and create lasting memories in this stunning region, fully immersed in its beauty and culture. Our team ensures every detail is managed for your peace of mind.
Highlights of Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour-Epic Trek Nepal
- Discovering the charming Thakali villages with their unique architecture and culture.
- Exploring ancient monasteries that hold centuries of history and spiritual significance.
- Visiting sacred temples nestled amidst breathtaking mountain landscapes.
- Venturing into mystical caves with intriguing formations and stories.
- Experiencing the vibrant culture, traditions, and daily life of the Thakali people.
- Indulging in delicious local cuisine, including traditional Thakali dishes.
- Witnessing spectacular sunrises and sunsets over the majestic Himalayan peaks.
- Soaking in the tranquility of serene mountain lakes and pristine waterfalls.
- Crossing thrilling suspension bridges that offer panoramic views of the valleys below.
- Riding through the exhilarating Kaligandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge, for an unforgettable journey through nature’s wonders.
Itinerary of Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour-Epic Trek Nepal
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Airport Greeting: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where our team warmly welcomes you. Spot your name on a sign for easy identification. Transfer to Base: Enjoy a comfortable transfer to your initial base in Kathmandu, providing a glimpse of the city’s vibrant life and unique architecture. Acclimatization: Rest and acclimate to the new environment. Take this time to relax, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude and climate. Your adventure begins with a serene start.
Day 02: Ride to Pokhara
Route Highlights: Drive along Prithivi Highway and Trishuli River; explore Pokhara Lakeside. Embarking on a Memorable Journey: Morning Departure: Rise early and gear up for the first leg of your motorcycle adventure. After breakfast, hit the road, heading towards the beautiful city of Pokhara. Ride Along Prithivi Highway: Your route for the day is the famed Prithivi Highway, known for its scenic beauty and engaging riding experience.
Cruise through a constantly changing landscape, featuring lush green hills, small Nepalese villages, and bustling local markets. Following the Trishuli River: A significant part of your ride will be alongside the meandering Trishuli River, renowned for its white-water rafting. Adding a sense of adventure to your journey, take quick stops to relish serene river views and capture memorable photos. Arrival in Pokhara: By late afternoon, arrive in Pokhara, a city celebrated for its natural beauty and tranquil ambiance. Nestled beside a lake and surrounded by mountains, Pokhara is a paradise for travelers.
Exploring Pokhara Lakeside: Take time to explore Lakeside. This vibrant strip boasts cafes, shops, and restaurants, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Shore of Phewa Lake, witness the sunset, or indulge in a pleasant boat ride. Rest and Rejuvenate: After a day of riding, it’s time to relax and recharge. Enjoy the evening at your own pace – unwind at a local café, explore the market, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere of Pokhara.
Activity: 6-7 hours ride
Day 03: Ride from Pokhara to Jomsom to Chuksang
Ride: Embark on an exhilarating journey, traversing mountain roads that unfold breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Driving Hours: Approximately 8-9 hours Arrival in Chuksang: Experience the authentic lifestyle of this mountain village, immersing yourself in the rich culture and charm it has to offer.
Activity: 8-9 hours drive
Max. Altitude: 2980m./9,777ft. (Chuksang )
Day 04: Ride from Chuksang to Geling
Journey: Embark on a captivating ride through picturesque trails, weaving through landscapes rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. Geling: Explore Geling, where ancient monasteries and traditional architecture tell tales of a bygone era. Immerse yourself in the unique charm and history of this enchanting village. Driving Hours: Approximately 5-6 hours
Activity: 5-6 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 3540m./11,614ft. (Geling)
Day 05: Ride from Geling to Lo Manthang
Ride: Embark on an awe-inspiring journey as you enter the mystical region of Upper Mustang, unveiling unique landscapes and cultural richness along the way. Lo Manthang: Explore the wonders of Lo Manthang, a walled city that whispers tales of a bygone era. Discover its palaces, gompas, and delve into the rich history of the Mustang kingdom, a captivating chapter frozen in time. Driving Hours: Approximately 4-5 hours
Activity: 4-5 hours drive
Max. Altitude: 3810m./12,500ft. (Lo Manthang )
Day 06: Exploration in Lo-Manthang
Immersing in the Rich Heritage and Natural Wonders of Lo-Manthang: Day of Discovery: Dedicate this day to fully exploring the enchanting city of Lo-Manthang. Nestled in the Himalayas, this hidden gem is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Monastery Visits: Commence your exploration with visits to the city’s ancient monasteries. Each holds a unique charm, featuring exquisite murals, statues, and thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings). Beyond places of worship, these monasteries safeguard the spiritual and artistic heritage of the region.
Cave Exploration: Surrounded by mysterious caves, some centuries old and once used as living quarters, Lo-Manthang’s caves offer a glimpse into the region’s history and the ingenuity of its ancient inhabitants. They also provide breathtaking views of the valley and the city. Local Village Tours: In the afternoon, venture into nearby villages. These small settlements provide a window into the daily lives of the locals. Observe their traditional lifestyles, largely unchanged for centuries. Interaction with villagers offers insightful perspectives on their customs and traditions.
Cultural Immersion: Engage with the local community to learn about their crafts, cuisine, and way of life. Witness traditional weaving, sample local dishes, or even participate in a cultural ritual or celebration, depending on the time of your visit. Evening Reflection: As the evening descends, find a quiet spot to reflect on the day’s experiences. The tranquility of Lo-Manthang, against the backdrop of the Himalayas, provides a perfect setting for contemplation and relaxation. Highlights: Visiting monasteries, caves, and local villages.
Max. Altitude: 3810m./12,500ft. (Lo-Manthang )
Day 07: Ride from Lo Manthang to Muktinath
Journey: Embark on a mesmerizing journey, riding through diverse landscapes that showcase the ever-changing natural beauty of the region. Muktinath: Arrive at Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Explore its spiritual ambiance, featuring 108 water spouts and an eternal flame, creating a truly enchanting and culturally significant experience. Driving Hours: Approximately 6-7 hours
Activity: 6-7 hours drive
Max. Altitude: 3710m./12,172ft. (Muktinath)
Day 08: Ride from Muktinath to Jomsom and Return to Pokhara
Return Journey: Retrace your path, offering a different perspective on the landscapes you’ve traversed. Witness the familiar terrain from a new angle as you journey back through the awe-inspiring landscapes. Pokhara: Arrive in Pokhara and spend the evening unwinding in the city, reflecting on the remarkable journey you’ve undertaken. Cherish the memories created amidst the Himalayan beauty, capturing the essence of your adventure. Jomsom Elevation: 2,720m / 8,923ft. Driving Hours: Approximately 8-9 hours (Full day)
Activity: 8-9 hours drive
Day 09: Pokhara Half-Day Sightseeing & Return back to Kathmandu
Sightseeing in Pokhara: Explore Pokhara’s beauty with a visit to iconic landmarks like the Peace Pagoda and Davis Falls. Enjoy a serene boat ride on Phewa Lake, soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings. Return to Kathmandu: Embark on a scenic journey back to Kathmandu, reminiscing about the incredible moments from your motorcycle adventure. Cherish the memories as you return to the vibrant capital city. Pokhara Elevation: 827m / 2,713ft Kathmandu Elevation: 1,400m / 4,593ft Driving Hours: Approximately 6-7 hours (return to Kathmandu)
Activity: Sightseeing
Day 10: Departure
Kathmandu: Make the most of your remaining time in Kathmandu by exploring Thamel for last-minute shopping or visiting nearby cultural sites. Absorb the vibrant atmosphere of the city one last time. Departure: Bid farewell to Kathmandu as you proceed to the airport for your onward journey. Cherish the memories of your enriching adventure and carry the spirit of Nepal with you as you embark on your departure. Safe travels!
Includes/Excludes
What is included?
- Airport Transfers: Necessary airport transfers as per the itinerary.
- Accommodation:
- 3 nights twin-sharing accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, including breakfast.
- 2 nights twin-sharing accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Pokhara, including breakfast.
- Standard lodges/guesthouse accommodations on a twin-sharing basis throughout the Mustang region.
- Motorcycle Provision: Royal Enfield Classic 500CC or Royal Enfield Himalayan Motorcycle 411 CC for the entire trip, including fuel, as per the itinerary.
- Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) provided during the trip after leaving Pokhara and before returning to Pokhara.
- Trip Leader and Mechanic Services: Experienced, government-licensed trip leader and highly qualified, well-trained mechanic.
- Costs for their meals, accommodations, and daily allowances.
- Backup support and provision of motorcycle spare parts.
- Support Vehicle: Back-up 4X4 vehicle for the entire trip to carry luggage, motorbike spare parts, and a mechanic.
- Permits:
Upper Mustang Restricted Area permits ($500 per person for 10 Days).
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Fee.
What is not included?
- Nepal Entry Visa: Visa fee for entry into Nepal is not included.
- Airfare: Both domestic and international airfares are excluded.
- Personal Riding Gear: Any personal riding gear required for the trip is not provided and should be brought by participants.
- Meals in Cities: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara are not included.
- Personal Insurance and Evacuation Charges: Personal travel insurance and any charges related to evacuation during the trip are excluded.
- Sightseeing Entrance Fees: Any entrance fees for sightseeing tours are not covered.
- Personal Expenses: All expenses of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, laundry, etc., are excluded.
- Personal Insurance Against Accidents/Loss: Insurance against accidents, loss of life, and loss of goods is not included.
- Gratuities: Tips for staff are not included and are at the discretion of the client.
- Unforeseen Costs: Additional costs incurred due to natural calamities, strikes, breakdowns, and other unforeseen circumstances beyond control are not covered.
Trip Information
Upper Mustang Permits: Exploring the Restricted Zone
Venturing into the Upper Mustang area necessitates acquiring a special permit. This permit costs $500 for duration of 10 days. Subsequently, if the initial 10-day permit lapses, an additional $50 per day is charged by the governing body. It’s crucial to note that the permit duration is based on days, not nights, commencing in Kagbeni and concluding in Kagbeni.
Transitioning into this restricted zone wasn’t permissible for foreigners until 1992. Even now, entry without a permit remains restricted. Moreover, specific areas within Mustang fall under the jurisdiction of ACAP, necessitating a permit from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) which costs Rs. 3000.
Furthermore, acquiring a restricted area permit is contingent on two or more individuals traveling together; solo travelers cannot obtain the permit. Thus, meticulous planning and adherence to permit regulations ensure a seamless and legal exploration of Upper Mustang’s captivating landscapes.
Optimal Seasons for Mustang Motorbike Tours:
The ideal seasons for an Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour are generally from March to April and from October to November. Nevertheless, the tour is feasible in February, June, April, May, and December as well.
Mountain weather is unpredictable, featuring chilly nights and warm days. Temperatures fluctuate between a high of 30 degrees Celsius and a low of -15 degrees Celsius. Adequate preparation for diverse weather conditions is crucial for a pleasant and fulfilling tour experience.
Ultimate Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour Itinerary: 9 Days of Adventure
Day 1: Preparation day in Kathmandu 1350 m altitude.
Day 2: Bike ride to Pokhara – 200 KM (6-7 hours) at 822 m altitude.
Day 3: Ride to Kalopani via Beni – 123 KM (5-6 hours) reaching 2600 m altitude.
Day 4: Bike ride from Tatopani to Muktinath via Kagbeni – 63 KM (5-6 hours) reaching 3800 m altitude.
Day 5: Permit formalities & ride to Lo-Manthang – 45 KM (5-6 hours) at 3800 m altitude.
Day 6: Exploration day in Lo-Manthang and ride around Chhosar (3800 m).
Day 7: Ride back to Jomsom – 55 Km (6 hours) at 2743 m altitude.
Day 8: Return ride to Pokhara – 158 KM (7 hours) at 822 m altitude.
Day 9: Return ride to Kathmandu – 200 KM (6 hours) at 1350 m altitude.
Nice to Know:
- It’s highly recommended to have personal travel insurance that includes emergency rescue and helicopter evacuation coverage.
- Bring your own complete riding gear, including a helmet, boots, gloves, rain jacket, back protector, and water bag hydration.
- Ensure you have a valid driving license with you.
- Take responsibility for your own equipment and motorbike; the company will not be liable for any loss of equipment or recovery costs.
- Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and sunglasses, especially since we’ll be traveling at high altitudes.
- Be aware of altitude sickness symptoms; staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can help minimize this risk.
Choosing the Best Motorbike:
For an Upper Mustang motorbike tour, the most suitable choice of motorbike is typically a dirt bike. These bikes are less common in Nepal and tend to be more expensive. Alternatively, we recommend either the Royal Enfield Classic or the Royal Enfield Himalayan. The RE Classic is better suited for riders with a heavier body, while the RE Himalayan is ideal for those with a lighter body.
Additionally, you have the option to bring your own bike from your location, which can offer added comfort and familiarity during the tour.
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