Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour
Certified 
Sustainable 
Best Price 
Challenge level
 Destination
|
Nepal |
|---|---|
 Activity
|
Mountain Biking |
 Duration
|
12 Days |
 Meals
|
Included (B,L, D) |
 Accomodation
|
Hotel and Lodge |
 Group size
|
min 2 people |
 Best Season
|
March to November |
 Max Altitude
|
3840 m. Lo-manthang |
 Trip Code
|
UMMBT12 |
 Transportation
|
Royal Enfield / Support jeep |
 Grade
|
Strenuous |
The Luxury Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour is an extraordinary high-altitude motorcycle journey into one of Nepal’s most dramatic and culturally preserved landscapes. Designed for adventure riders who seek more than a standard road trip, this tour combines rugged Himalayan riding, private support, cultural immersion, ancient monasteries, desert-like cliffs, sacred pilgrimage sites, and the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang.
Upper Mustang, once known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom, remained restricted to outsiders until 1992. Even today, it feels beautifully untouched. The region lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, creating a landscape that looks more like the Tibetan Plateau than the green hills of Nepal. Expect crimson cliffs, eroded canyons, wind-carved valleys, cave settlements, whitewashed villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and endless Himalayan skylines.
This motorbike package is ideal for riders who want a fully supported, carefully organized, and comfortable adventure into one of Nepal’s most remote regions. With a private motorbike for each rider, a professional road captain, licensed guide, backup 4x4 support vehicle, trained mechanic, selected hotels and lodges, permit arrangements, and flexible photography stops, the journey is built for both safety and unforgettable experience.
Upper Mustang was a restricted demilitarized zone until 1992. Known as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom," this rain-shadowed valley offers a Martian-like landscape of crimson cliffs, eroded canyons, cave dwellings, and whitewashed Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. Unlike classic Nepal routes, you’ll ride through arid, treeless terrain, often compared to the Tibetan Plateau with dramatic view of Nilgiri (7061 m), Annapurna (8091 m), Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Fishtail (6993 m), Tukuche (6920 m), Bhrikuti (6476 m), and Tilicho (7134 m).
Get ready to explore the forbidden kingdom of Lo, located behind the mountains of Nepal consisting of dry rocky valley bordering Tibetan plateau. Being on this tour you will definitely have experience of a life time. A person could experience Tibetan culture with blend of lifestyle of citizens living there.
Riding motorcycle on winding roads to the bumpy patch followed by river crossing with a grace of Himalayas in the backdrop and the diverse culture and topography till upper mustang. Lo manthag gives us a feeling of being in a whole new world. Starting from lofty valley of Pokhara which is a gateway to most popular treks, our motorcycle tour will take you to Beni which is 82 km from Pokhara. We then follow old route of Tibetan traders coming to Nepal. Of course the roads have changed but riding motorcycle on the gorges of Kaligandagi which is one of the deepest gorge (depth of 5571 m) is an experience of lifetime. The pristine lifestyle of Buddhist community with Tibetan influence, historic monastery and ancient caves at Chosar. Upper Mustang is more suitable now for motorcycle tours as well as upper mustang jeep tours.
A special permit is required in order to visit Upper Mustang. During the ride we have scenic picturesque place to stop through the sandy and windy trails. This trails follows the up and downhill. We pass through village with narrow alleys amongst white washed houses, fields of buckwheat, barley, wheat and apple orchards. From there we move forward to cross the Kaligandaki river head up to the huge red chunk of conglomerate that has fallen from the cliff above, forming a tunnel through which the Kaligandaki follows.
Ghar Gompa is the oldest monastery of Nepal with other monasteries like Chode Gompa, Jampa Monastery and Thupchen Gompa of Lo-Mangthang. The Jong cave in choser is one of the most amazing caves in upper mustang Nepal. Secrets of the sky caves Nepal are attracting attention of archaeologist from around the world. They are very curious to know more about mysteries caves in upper mustang region. Upper mustang is one of the best examples of cave civilization. There are numerous multi-storied man made caves in the hills of Upper Mustang. This place still have a culture of sky burial.
2 people : US$ 2300
3 - 5 people: US$ 2250
6 - 10 people: US$ 2000
11 - 16 people: US$ 1800
17 + people: US$ 1500
This is a high-endurance, off-road-heavy adventure. Approximately 60% of the riding is on rugged dirt, gravel, sand, and rocky jeep tracks. You’ll cross multiple high passes, riverbeds, and switchbacks cut into sheer cliff faces. The reward: complete isolation, authentic Tibetan culture, and unrestricted open trails where you can feel the freedom of high-altitude desert riding.
|
Experience |
Why It Matters |
|
Lo Manthang |
A walled settlement and former royal capital with strong Tibetan Buddhist influence. |
|
Chhoser Caves |
Multi-storey caves and cliffside settlements that reflect Mustang's ancient cave civilization. |
|
Ghar Gompa / Lo-Ghekar |
One of the region's most respected monasteries, connected with the spiritual history of Mustang. |
|
Muktinath |
A high-altitude pilgrimage site where Hindu and Buddhist traditions meet. |
|
Kagbeni |
A medieval-style village at the entrance to Upper Mustang, with narrow alleys and old monastery culture. |
|
Marpha |
A beautifully preserved Thakali village known for apples, stone streets, and whitewashed architecture. |
|
Tiji Festival Option |
When dates align, the trip can be customized around the colorful Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang. |
|
Place |
Experience |
|
Kathmandu |
Arrival, cultural preparation, trip briefing, UNESCO heritage sightseeing, test ride, final celebration. |
|
Pokhara |
Lakeside comfort, mountain views, gateway to the Annapurna and Mustang riding corridor. |
|
Beni / Tatopani Area |
Transition from highway riding to rougher mountain roads, river valleys, hot spring culture, waterfalls. |
|
Kalopani |
Peaceful mountain settlement with views across the Kali Gandaki corridor and surrounding peaks. |
|
Marpha |
Apple orchards, stone lanes, Thakali culture, traditional village atmosphere. |
|
Jomsom |
Windy hub of Mustang, wide valley views, and dramatic Himalayan desert transition. |
|
Kagbeni |
Ancient gateway to Upper Mustang and official checkpoint before the restricted route. |
|
Samar |
Highland settlement reached after rough climbs, cliffside routes, and open Mustang scenery. |
|
Ghami / Tsarang |
Historic villages, mani walls, monasteries, canyon views, and Tibetan-style architecture. |
|
Lo Manthang |
The cultural heart of Upper Mustang and the main destination of the tour. |
|
Chhoser |
Cave settlements, cliff monasteries, village life, and ancient Himalayan cave culture. |
|
Muktinath |
Sacred pilgrimage site and spiritual turning point on the return journey. |
|
Tatopani |
Natural hot spring stop after the demanding Mustang ride. |
This is a adventure, not a luxury road tour. Upper Mustang rewards riders with raw beauty, cultural depth, and a powerful sense of freedom, but the terrain demands focus and preparation.
Around 60 percent of the route includes off-road sections, including gravel tracks, rocky trails, sandy patches, river crossings, rough jeep roads, cliffside switchbacks, and windy high-altitude valleys. Riders should be comfortable with standing on foot pegs, controlling the bike on loose surfaces, and riding long hours in changing mountain conditions.
The reward is immense: open Himalayan desert trails, isolated villages, ancient monasteries, panoramic cliffs, and the rare feeling of riding through a living Tibetan-influenced kingdom.
What to expect in a tour
Upper Mustang is a restricted area, so special permits are mandatory. The tour requires:
The restricted area permit must be arranged through a registered trekking or tour agency. Foreign travelers cannot obtain solo independent permits for Upper Mustang. Gateway Adventure arranges the required permit process in advance.
Gateway Adventure designs this journey for travelers who want reliability, comfort, and authentic exploration in a remote Himalayan setting. Upper Mustang is not just a destination, it is a frontier riding experience where planning, route knowledge, safety support, and local coordination matter deeply.
Our package includes:
1. Upgrade to 5-Star Hotel in Kathmandu, 2 Nights
Additional Cost: US$ 400 for 2 persons
This upgrade is based on double occupancy for two travelers for two nights in Kathmandu. Hotels may include Aloft Kathmandu, Dusit Princess Kathmandu, or similar standard properties, depending on availability.
Our standard Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour includes comfortable twin-sharing rooms in selected three-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara. However, we understand that some travelers prefer a more refined and relaxing stay before or after the rugged Mustang ride.
With this upgrade, you can enjoy a higher level of comfort, better facilities, premium rooms, elegant dining spaces, and a more luxurious city experience. This is a great option for riders who want to rest well before the journey or recover in comfort after completing the high-altitude motorbike adventure.
Please let us know your hotel preference at the time of booking so we can make the necessary arrangements in advance.
Additional Cost: US$ 100 for 2 persons per night
This add-on includes one extra night of hotel accommodation for two travelers in either Kathmandu or Pokhara, based on double occupancy.
Kathmandu and Pokhara are two of Nepal’s most attractive cities, each offering a completely different travel experience. Kathmandu is rich in culture, temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient architecture, and traditional markets. Pokhara, on the other hand, is known for its peaceful lakeside atmosphere, mountain views, adventure activities, and relaxed charm.
A short stay may not be enough to fully enjoy these cities. With this extension, we can arrange extra accommodation and help you plan additional experiences before or after your Upper Mustang ride.
In Kathmandu, you may choose private sightseeing tours to places such as Patan, Bhaktapur, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, or Nagarkot. In Pokhara, you can enjoy boating on Phewa Lake, paragliding from Sarangkot, ziplining, bungee jumping, cave visits, or relaxed lakeside dining.
Optional scenic experiences can also be arranged, such as an Everest helicopter tour from Kathmandu or an Annapurna scenic flight from Pokhara, based on availability and weather conditions.
Additional Cost: US$ 200 per rider
For riders who want a lighter and more off-road-focused motorcycle, we offer an upgrade to the Honda CRF 250 for the Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour.
The Honda CRF 250 is a strong choice for Mustang’s rugged terrain. Compared with heavier touring bikes, it offers better maneuverability, lighter handling, improved suspension, and greater control on rough tracks, rocky sections, river crossings, sandy trails, and steep climbs.
This upgrade is especially suitable for riders who prefer a more agile bike for technical off-road sections. The CRF 250 performs well on narrow mountain roads, loose gravel, high-altitude trails, and the demanding landscapes around Upper Mustang. Its lighter frame also makes it easier to control during long riding days and challenging terrain.
Overall, the Honda CRF 250 upgrade adds more confidence, comfort, and control to the adventure, making the ride smoother and more enjoyable for off-road-focused travelers.
Its powerful engine provides excellent torque and control, especially while riding through rocky trails, river crossings, and High Mountain passes like Lo Manthang. The bike’s agility and smooth handling ensure better maneuverability on narrow and uneven paths. Riders also benefit from improved fuel efficiency and easier handling at higher altitudes. Overall, the CRF 250 upgrade enhances safety, comfort, and the overall adventure experience in the challenging yet breathtaking landscapes of Upper Mustang.
The cost of the backup 4x4 jeep is fixed at US$ 1200 for the entire Tour and remains the same regardless of the number of participants, from 1 to 10 persons.
We offer the option to include a backup 4×4 jeep for the entire Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour at an additional cost of US$ 1000. This service provides added comfort and convenience throughout the journey, as the jeep can carry essential luggage, provide mechanical support, and serve as an alternative transport in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Having a backup vehicle ensures a smoother and more secure experience, especially in remote or challenging terrain. This option is highly recommended for groups seeking additional safety and comfort during the adventure.
The best time for the Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour is during autumn, from September to November, and spring, from March to May. These seasons normally offer clearer skies, drier trails, better visibility, and more comfortable riding conditions.
Upper Mustang lies in the rain-shadow area of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, so its landscape is dry, dramatic, and similar to the Tibetan plateau. The region is famous for its barren valleys, yellow and red cliffs, open highlands, and ancient settlements. Although Mustang receives less rainfall than many other parts of Nepal, the lower sections of the route can still be affected by monsoon rain, muddy roads, landslides, and river crossings during summer.
Autumn is considered the most reliable season for riding because the roads are usually dry, the mountain views are clear, and the weather is stable. Spring is also a beautiful time, with warmer temperatures and fresh color in the lower valleys. Winter, from December to February, can be extremely cold in Upper Mustang, with strong winds and possible snowfall, making riding more difficult and less comfortable.
The Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour is an adventurous and physically demanding journey. It is best suited for riders who have previous motorbike experience, especially on off-road, gravel, rocky, or mountain terrain.
The ride becomes more challenging after leaving the smoother road sections behind. From the lower Mustang region onward, riders experience rough tracks, riverbeds, loose stones, steep climbs, narrow turns, dusty trails, and high-altitude passes. In some sections, riders may need to stand on the foot pegs for better balance and control instead of riding in a relaxed seated position.
This tour is not recommended for complete beginners. Riders should be confident with clutch control, braking, cornering, uphill riding, downhill handling, and maintaining balance on uneven roads. For those new to off-road riding, it is better to practice on easier dirt roads and mountain trails before joining this adventure.
Although the route is challenging, the reward is unforgettable. Every day brings dramatic landscapes, remote villages, deep valleys, ancient monasteries, and the thrilling feeling of riding through one of Nepal’s most unique Himalayan regions.
For the Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour, Gateway Adventure Treks provides reliable motorcycles suitable for Himalayan terrain. Common options include Royal Enfield Himalayan, Royal Enfield Classic, or upgraded off-road bikes depending on the package and availability.
The Royal Enfield Himalayan is one of the most practical bikes for Nepal’s mountain roads. It is comfortable, strong, easy to repair, and suitable for gravel roads, rocky sections, and long-distance riding. Riders who want a lighter and more off-road-focused experience may also choose available bike upgrades.
Before the ride begins, our team checks the motorcycles and gives riders a short orientation. This includes basic bike handling, route briefing, safety instructions, road conditions, and riding discipline. Riders may also take a short test ride before starting the journey.
Private vehicles are arranged for airport transfers and other ground transportation as mentioned in the itinerary. For group rides, a support vehicle may be used to carry luggage, tools, spare parts, and emergency supplies.
Travelers who wish to bring their own motorcycle should inform us in advance with the bike details, model, and technical specifications. This helps us check the feasibility of support, maintenance, and required procedures in Nepal.
Many travelers think altitude sickness only affects trekkers, but riders can also experience it. In fact, motorbike riders may gain altitude faster than trekkers, so the body sometimes gets less time to adjust naturally.
The Upper Mustang route reaches high-altitude areas, with Lo Manthang located at around 3,860 meters. The air is dry and thinner than in lower regions, so riders should take altitude seriously even though the tour does not go above 4,000 meters.
Gateway Adventure Treks designs the itinerary with manageable riding hours, gradual altitude gain, and enough time for rest and exploration. A full day in Lo Manthang also helps riders adjust while enjoying the cultural highlights of the region.
Common symptoms of altitude sickness may include headache, tiredness, dizziness, and loss of appetite, nausea, difficulty sleeping, or shortness of breath. If any symptom appears, riders should immediately inform the guide. The safest response is to rest, hydrate, avoid alcohol, and descend to a lower altitude if symptoms become serious.
Riders are encouraged to drink enough water, eat properly, avoid overexertion, and maintain a steady pace throughout the ride. Anyone planning to use altitude medication should consult a doctor before the trip.
At Gateway Adventure Treks, rider safety, comfort, and logistics are carefully managed throughout the Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour. Our team supports you from arrival in Kathmandu until the completion of the journey.
The tour is operated with a well-maintained motorcycle, an experienced guide, and support arrangements suitable for Mustang’s rugged road conditions. For larger groups, a road captain helps manage riding order, group pace, safety stops, and daily route coordination.
A backup support vehicle may accompany the group depending on the package plan and road accessibility. This vehicle can carry luggage, spare parts, tools, and essential supplies. If a rider becomes tired or needs to rest, the support vehicle may also provide assistance where road conditions allow.
An experienced mechanic is also arranged for the ride to handle basic repairs and technical issues along the route. A first aid kit is carried by the team, and emergency coordination support is available if required.
While Upper Mustang is remote, the region now offers basic lodge and teahouse accommodation in many settlements. Gateway Adventure Treks selects the best available lodges along the route, prioritizing cleanliness, location, hospitality, and rider convenience.
The Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour is one of the most exciting adventure journeys in Nepal. It offers the perfect combination of freedom, culture, wilderness, and high-altitude riding.
Unlike regular trekking or jeep tours, a motorbike journey allows riders to feel the landscape more closely. You ride through open valleys, ancient villages, windy passes, cliffside tracks, and desert-like plateaus while enjoying the raw beauty of Mustang at your own pace.
Upper Mustang is also culturally unique. The region has strong Tibetan influence, ancient monasteries, prayer walls, caves, chortens, and traditional settlements that still preserve their old way of life. Riding through this hidden kingdom feels like traveling through a living museum of Himalayan culture.
This tour is ideal for adventure lovers who want something more thrilling than a standard sightseeing trip. The route tests your riding skills, but also rewards you with unforgettable views, peaceful landscapes, spiritual sites, and the rare experience of reaching Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Mustang.
Good preparation is essential for a safe and enjoyable Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour. Riders should be physically fit, mentally ready, and comfortable with long-distance riding on rough mountain roads.
Most riding days involve several hours on the bike, often on uneven roads, dusty tracks, rocky trails, and high-altitude terrain. Before joining the tour, riders should build stamina through regular exercise, strength training, and endurance activities. Focus on legs, core, shoulders, and back, as these muscles are heavily used during off-road riding.
It is also helpful to practice riding on gravel roads, dirt tracks, uphill sections, downhill routes, and sharp bends. Riders should be confident using clutch control, braking smoothly, balancing while standing, and handling the bike at low speed.
During the tour, basic daily checks are important. Riders should check brakes, tires, clutch, lights, fuel level, and general bike condition before starting each day. Avoid speeding, keep enough distance from other riders, follow the guide’s instructions, and take regular breaks for water, snacks, and stretching.
Upper Mustang is not just a ride, it is an adventure through remote Himalayan terrain. With the right preparation and the support of Gateway Adventure Treks, the journey becomes safe, exciting, and deeply memorable.
Minor repairs such as brake shoes, spark plugs, clutch plates, tubes, cables, and basic engine oil support are included as per package condition. However, damage caused by rough handling, accident, theft, or irresponsible riding will be the rider’s responsibility.
During the Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour, Gateway Adventure Treks arranges comfortable accommodation based on the location and availability of services along the route.
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, riders stay in selected three-star hotels or similar local-standard hotels on a twin-sharing basis. These hotels are chosen for their comfort, convenient location, cleanliness, and easy access to city facilities.
Once the ride enters the Mustang region, accommodation will be in local lodges, guesthouses, or teahouses. These mountain lodges are simple but practical for remote Himalayan travel. Rooms usually come with twin beds, mattresses, pillows, and blankets. In many places, bathrooms may be shared, and hot showers may be available at an additional cost.
Breakfast is included during your hotel stays in Kathmandu and Pokhara. During the Mustang riding section, meal arrangements will follow the package plan. Local lodges usually serve freshly prepared meals such as Dal Bhat Tarkari, Thakali set, noodles, fried rice, momo, chowmein, soup, pasta, potatoes, eggs, tea, and coffee. Riders can also try local Mustang and Thakali flavors along the route.
Meal costs in the mountain region generally depend on the location and personal choice. On average, riders may spend around USD 25 to 30 per person per day if meals are not included in the package.
A special farewell dinner can also be arranged at the end of the tour, giving riders a warm opportunity to celebrate the successful completion of the Upper Mustang adventure.
Travel insurance is strongly required for the Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour. Since the journey enters a restricted Himalayan region and involves high-altitude motorbike riding, every rider should have a proper insurance policy before the trip begins.
Your insurance should cover motorbike riding, medical treatment, accident expenses, emergency evacuation, rescue support, and high-altitude travel up to around 4,000 meters. It is also wise to choose a policy that includes protection for riding-related risks, personal injury, emergency transportation, and possible trip interruption.
Riders should carefully review the terms and conditions of their insurance policy before traveling to Nepal. Some policies may exclude motorcycle tours, off-road riding, high-altitude travel, or emergency helicopter rescue. Therefore, it is important to confirm these details with your insurance provider in advance.
Travel insurance helps protect you financially in case of illness, injury, accident, emergency evacuation, or unexpected trip changes. It also gives riders greater confidence while traveling through the remote roads and highland landscapes of Upper Mustang.
The Upper Mustang region is a restricted area of Nepal, so special permits are required before entering the region. Gateway Adventure Treks will arrange the necessary permits and official paperwork for all confirmed riders.
For this tour, the main required permits are:
This permit allows travelers to enter the restricted area beyond Kagbeni, including the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang. The permit must be arranged through a registered trekking or tour company in Nepal. A minimum of two travelers and an authorized guide are generally required for the permit process.
|
Day |
Route / Activity |
Altitude |
Overnight |
|
Day 01 |
Arrival at Kathmandu Airport |
1,350 m |
Hotel |
|
Day 02 |
Kathmandu sightseeing and motorbike test ride |
1,350 m |
Hotel |
|
Day 03 |
Ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara |
820 m |
Hotel |
|
Day 04 |
Ride from Pokhara to Kalopani |
2,530 m |
Teahouse/Lodge |
|
Day 05 |
Ride from Kalopani to Samar via Kagbeni |
3,650 m |
Teahouse/Lodge |
|
Day 06 |
Ride from Samar to Lo Manthang via Ghami and Tsarang |
3,860 m |
Teahouse/Lodge |
|
Day 07 |
Explore Lo Manthang and Chhoser caves |
3,860 m |
Teahouse/Lodge |
|
Day 08 |
Ride from Lo Manthang to Muktinath |
3,710 m |
Teahouse/Lodge |
|
Day 09 |
Ride from Muktinath to Tatopani |
1,200 m |
Hotel/Lodge |
|
Day 10 |
Ride from Tatopani to Pokhara |
820 m |
Hotel |
|
Day 11 |
Ride from Pokhara to Kathmandu |
1,350 m |
Hotel |
|
Day 12 |
Final departure from Kathmandu |
1,350 m |
Departure |
Kathmandu, Pokhara, Beni / Tatopani Area, Kalopani, Marpha, Jomsom, Kagbeni, Samar, Ghami / Tsarang, Lo Manthang, Chhoser, Muktinath, Tatopani
Welcome to Nepal. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our Gateway Adventure representative will receive you at the international terminal and escort you to your hotel in a private vehicle.
After hotel check-in, you can rest and recover from your flight. In the evening, we organize a short trip briefing where your guide will explain the route, riding conditions, safety practices, permits, daily schedule, and any optional arrangements. You will also have time to explore Thamel, Kathmandu’s vibrant tourist district, known for restaurants, cafes, trekking shops, and cultural energy.
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, our guide will meet for a short briefing about the journey ahead. The guide will explain the route, riding plan, safety instructions, road conditions, and important travel preparations before the adventure begins.
Today, we will also explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu including a visit to Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu temples on the bank of the Bagmati River observing spiritual rituals, temple architecture, and the unique religious atmosphere of Kathmandu.
We will then continue to Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath Stupa, two of the most iconic Buddhist heritage sites in the valley where one can witness monks chanting prayers, devotees walking around the stupa, and the peaceful spiritual energy of Tibetan Buddhist culture, enjoy panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley while observing prayer flags, shrines, and the playful monkeys around the hilltop site.
Later in the afternoon or early evening, we will inspect our Royal Enfield Himalayan 411 motorbikes and take a short test ride. This helps every rider become familiar with the bike, local traffic flow, road behavior, and riding style in Nepal. The test ride is also a useful opportunity to make minor adjustments before beginning the long ride to Pokhara the next morning.
After the test ride, we will return to the hotel, enjoy dinner, and rest early in preparation for the exciting motorbike journey ahead.
After breakfast, we begin the ride to Pokhara, Nepal’s beautiful lake city and the gateway to the Annapurna region. The journey follows scenic highways, river valleys, terraced hillsides, and small towns along the way.
Depending on time and road conditions, we can stop at Bandipur or another scenic location for lunch. Bandipur is a beautifully preserved Newari hill town known for traditional architecture, mountain views, and peaceful streets.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel near Lakeside. The evening is free to relax, enjoy the lakeside atmosphere, or prepare for the off-road adventure ahead.
After breakfast with views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges, we begin our ride toward Mustang along the Baglung Highway. We first ride toward Beni on a paved road before entering rougher mountain terrain.
Once the asphalt road is over, the test of our skill begins. The first 80 km will be quite calm and then the rock slabs and mud road tests our skill and patience.
The route gradually becomes more adventurous as we follow the Kali Gandaki Valley. Along the way, we pass local villages, agricultural settlements, waterfalls, and riverside tracks. A highlight of the day is Rupse Waterfall, a beautiful natural stop on the route.
We continue toward Kalopani, a peaceful village located in the Kali Gandaki corridor with magnificent views of the surrounding peaks.
After breakfast, we continue our Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour and begin gaining altitude as the landscape slowly changes from green valleys to the dry, dramatic terrain of Mustang.
The ride first passes through Marpha, the famous apple town, before heading toward Jomsom, one of the major settlements of the Kali Gandaki Valley.
As we ride higher, the air becomes cooler and fresher, while the scenery grows more powerful and cinematic. We follow the massive Kali Gandaki River, riding through rocky slopes, windy trails, and open Himalayan landscapes toward Ekle Bhatti.
Soon, we approach Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. The surroundings become dry, rugged, and spectacular, giving us the true feeling of entering the hidden kingdom of Mustang. At the edge of Kagbeni, our permits will be checked at the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Checkpost before we continue further into the restricted region.
After completing the permit formalities, the trail becomes rougher, with dusty, rocky, and off-road sections leading toward Tangbe. From this area, the snow-covered summit of Nilgiri Himal, 7,061m, appears beautifully above the barren Mustang landscape.
We then ride along a descending section toward Chhusang, 2,980m, before continuing to Chele. From Chele, the road climbs again, and we carefully push our bikes uphill until we reach Samar, our overnight stop. After a demanding but exciting riding day, we park the bikes, relax, and enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere.
After breakfast in the peaceful surroundings of Samar, we begin another remarkable day of riding through the ancient landscapes of the former Mustang Kingdom. Today’s journey takes us deeper into the Tibetan-influenced highlands, where barren cliffs, wind-carved valleys, high passes, and centuries-old settlements create one of the most dramatic riding experiences in Nepal.
The trail is adventurous and demanding, with rocky sections, steep climbs, narrow cliffside tracks, and high-altitude passes. We first ride toward Syangboche La Pass at around 3,850 meters, enjoying wide views of Mustang’s rugged terrain. From the pass, we descend toward Syangboche village and continue further to the beautiful village of Ghami, 3,520 meters, known for its peaceful atmosphere, traditional houses, and narrow village lanes.
As we move ahead, the red and grey cliffs of Upper Mustang become more striking. The route gradually climbs past long mani walls, prayer stones, and open desert-like valleys before ascending toward Mui La Pass at around 4,170 meters. From here, we make a short detour toward Dhakmar Village and Ghar Gompa, also known as Lo-Ghekar Monastery. This ancient monastery is one of the important spiritual sites of Mustang and is admired for its cultural value, artistic details, and beautiful surrounding views.
After visiting the monastery area, we continue riding along the scenic Charang Khola toward Tsarang, also spelled Charang. This historic village stands above the Tsarang Chu Canyon and is home to an impressive five-story dzong, which once served as both a monastery and a fort. Inside, visitors can see Buddhist statues, traditional thangkas, and old religious artwork. The surrounding mountain views are equally breathtaking, with distant panoramas of Annapurna, Tilicho, Nilgiri, and other Himalayan peaks.
From Tsarang, we follow a wider road northward and descend toward the Tsarang Chu before making the final climb over Lo La Pass at around 3,950 meters. From this windy pass, we get our first unforgettable view of Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Mustang. After a final ride across the open plateau, we arrive at Lo Manthang and settle into a local teahouse for the night.
Note: Feel free to stop your motorbike at various points to immerse in the breathtaking landscape of Upper Mustang and capture unforgettable beautiful photos and videos for your lifetime memories.
Today we spend a full day exploring Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of Mustang. After breakfast, we begin by visiting nearby nomadic settlements and high-altitude yak camps, where we can observe the traditional lifestyle and taste local tea made from yak milk.
We then explore some of Lo Manthang’s historic monasteries, including Champa Lhakang, built around 1420, the old Chode Gompa, and the beautiful red-walled Thugchen Gompa. These monasteries reflect the deep Buddhist culture, art, and spiritual heritage of the former Mustang Kingdom.
Later, we ride east of Lo Manthang toward Chhoser Village, about 16 km away, an extraordinary village known for cave settlements and cliffside. This small Tibetan-style village is famous for its ancient cave systems, especially the fascinating Jhong Cave, which has several levels, chambers, tunnels, and wooden ladders. Some of these caves are believed to date back thousands of years. . These caves were once used for residence, meditation, protection, and storage, making Upper Mustang one of the finest examples of ancient Himalayan cave civilization
Later, we ride toward Chhoser, monasteries. We visit Shija Jhong Cave, Kunchokling Monastery, Tinker Monastery, and local Buddhist sites.
After exploring the caves and village surroundings, we return to Lo Manthang for an overnight stay at the lodge.
We begin the day with an optional early morning ride toward a high-altitude viewpoint area, where riders may encounter yak herders and wide Himalayan desert landscapes. After returning for breakfast, we begin our return ride toward Jomsom.
On the way, we visit Ghar Gompa, one of the oldest functioning monasteries in the region. The ride back offers a different perspective of Upper Mustang’s landscape, with open valleys, Nilgiri views, and long sections of adventurous terrain. We will set off along the well-known terrain and scenery and ride back to Tsarang and Ghami eventually reaching Kagbeni.
After breakfast, we begin our return ride toward Marpha after exploring Dumba Laka, following the breathtaking trails of Mustang one last time. The route takes us through wide valleys, rugged cliffs, dry mountain landscapes, and traditional villages before gradually descending toward the Kali Gandaki Valley.
In Marpha, you may see apples drying on the rooftops under the warm sun, a familiar sight in this apple capital of Mustang. We can take a short break here and taste a small sip of locally made apple brandy, while keeping in mind that the journey still continues.
After leaving Marpha, we ride further down through the Kali Gandaki Valley, passing mountain villages, waterfalls, riverbanks, and changing landscapes. The road conditions vary along the way, with a mix of paved sections, rough tracks, and dusty trails. Lunch can be arranged around Kushma or another convenient stop depending on the timing and road condition.
After breakfast at Tatopani, we begin our final riding day toward Pokhara. Leaving behind the natural hot spring village, the road follows the beautiful Kali Gandaki Valley, passing through riverside settlements, terraced hillsides, waterfalls, and changing mountain landscapes.
The route continues through Beni, we ride toward the Baglung Kalika Bhagwati Temple in Baglung. Then passing through Kushma, and other scenic towns before gradually entering the greener hills leading to Pokhara. Along the way, the rough mountain tracks slowly change into smoother roads, making the ride more relaxed compared to the high-altitude sections of Mustang.
As we approach Pokhara, the landscape becomes softer and more refreshing, with views of hills, valleys, and distant Himalayan peaks on clear days. Upon arrival, we check into the hotel and enjoy a peaceful evening around Lakeside. This is a perfect moment to rest, celebrate the successful completion of the Upper Mustang motorbike adventure, and enjoy the comfort of Pokhara after days of rugged riding.
After breakfast, we ride back to Kathmandu along the scenic highway through the pretty rice fields towards Bandipur. Lunch can be arranged around Kurintar or another comfortable location en route.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel. The evening is free for rest, shopping, massage, or a farewell dinner.
If your flight is on evening, you can explore the city or buy some souvenirs from Nepal. We will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight schedule. You depart Nepal with unforgettable memories of the Forbidden Kingdom, Himalayan desert landscapes, ancient monasteries, and one of the finest motorcycle adventures in South Asia.
Your Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour package includes all essential services required for a safe, comfortable, and well-managed riding experience from arrival in Kathmandu to the completion of the journey.
The following services, expenses, and personal costs are not included in the Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour package. These costs should be arranged or paid directly by the rider unless clearly mentioned under the Package Inclusions section.
For the Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour, riders need proper gear for off-road terrain, cold high-altitude weather, dust, wind, river crossings, and remote riding conditions. The route includes rugged gravel roads, sandy sections, rocky jeep tracks, high passes, and limited fuel/service availability, so safety and preparation are essential.
Use soft waterproof duffel bags or saddlebags instead of hard suitcases. Hard luggage is difficult to manage on rough Mustang roads and in support vehicles. Keep your daily essentials, camera, water, documents, rain gear, and warm layer in a small day bag or tank bag.
For a premium and safe Mustang ride, each rider should carry:
A well-prepared rider enjoys the Mustang route more confidently. Good gear protects you from cold wind, dust, altitude, sudden rain, rough roads, and long riding hours.
Upper Mustang is a restricted region, so independent travel is not allowed in the same way as open trekking areas. Foreign travelers must arrange the trip through a registered agency and travel with a licensed guide. The Department of Immigration states that restricted-area trekkers should travel with a licensed trekking guide, and individual trekkers cannot apply for the permit directly.
For safety, permit processing, local coordination, and route management, Gateway Adventure Treks organizes this tour with proper documentation and professional support.
This tour is best suited for riders with previous motorbike experience, especially on rough or mixed terrain. You do not need to be a professional rider, but you should be confident handling a motorcycle for long hours and comfortable with gravel roads, dust, water crossings, and uphill or downhill switchbacks.
For the Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour, we recommend using a reliable adventure or dual-sport motorcycle suitable for high-altitude off-road riding, gravel tracks, sandy sections, river crossings, and steep mountain trails. The right bike makes the journey safer, smoother, and more enjoyable.
Minimum Recommended Bike:
A 350cc to 450cc dual-sport or adventure motorcycle is suitable for this route. Recommended options include the Royal Enfield Himalayan 411/450, Honda CRF 250, KTM 390 Adventure or similar models. These bikes offer a good balance of control, durability, and handling on rough Himalayan terrain.
Not Recommended:
Heavy street touring motorcycles or large adventure bikes weighing over 220 kg are not recommended for this route. The terrain includes narrow tracks, rocky sections, sand, water crossings, and steep switchbacks, where heavy bikes can become difficult to control, especially at altitude.
Fuel Planning:
Fuel availability becomes limited after Pokhara and Jomsom. Riders should plan carefully and carry an additional 2 to 5 liters of fuel from Kagbeni before entering Upper Mustang. Fuel in Lo Manthang may be limited, irregular, or available only through local jerry cans, so proper fuel management is essential throughout the ride.
For most riders, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450cc is one of the most practical choices for this tour. It is powerful enough for the Mustang route, easier to handle on rough terrain, and well-suited for Nepal’s mountain roads.
Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour, Gateway Adventure Treks arranges comfortable accommodation based on the location and availability of services along the route.
In
Once the ride enters the Mustang region, accommodation will be in local lodges, guesthouses, or teahouses. These mountain lodges are simple but practical for remote Himalayan travel. Rooms usually come with twin beds, mattresses, pillows, and blankets. In many places, bathrooms may be shared, and hot showers may be available at an additional cost.
Breakfast is included during your hotel stays in Kathmandu and Pokhara. During the Mustang riding section, meal arrangements will follow the package plan. Local lodges usually serve freshly prepared meals such as Dal Bhat Tarkari, Thakali set, noodles, fried rice, momo, chowmein, soup, pasta, potatoes, eggs, tea, and coffee. Riders can also try local Mustang and Thakali flavors along the route.
Meal costs in the mountain region generally depend on the location and personal choice. On average, riders may spend around USD 25 to 30 per person per day if meals are not included in the package.
A special farewell dinner can also be arranged at the end of the tour, giving riders a warm opportunity to celebrate the successful completion of the Upper Mustang adventure.
To book the Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour, simply contact Gateway Adventure Treks and Expedition via our website or customer service for availability and detailed information. A 10% deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your spot, with the remaining balance due before the tour starts. Payments can be made through secure methods such as bank transfer, credit card, or online platforms. For cancellations or changes, Gateway Adventure Treks and Expedition provides clear guidelines, with partial refunds available depending on the timing. Be sure to review the booking terms and conditions to ensure a smooth process.
Though we recommend booking in advance to secure your spot on the tour, Gateway Adventure Treks and Expeditions accepts the last- minute bookings. For these bookings, full payment (100% of the tour price) is required at least 24 hours prior to departure. Please note that while we strive to offer flexibility, we cannot be responsible for any delays or unforeseen issues such as weather conditions or unavailable accommodations.
For last- minute bookings or inquiries, contact us at +977- 9851360663 or email us at info@gatewaytreks.com
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