Annapurna & Upper Mustang Biking

Trip Overview

Biking to Upper Mustang is amazing to tour that explores Northern Nepal to a greater extent. This sport-cum-adventure focus on the upper part of Mustang, also known as Upper Mustang. The word Mustang in Nepali means for “Fertile plain. It is popularly known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom because until the 1990s it was not explored by tourist’s feet.” Upper Mustang is the Homeland of Thakali whose culture is a mixture of Tibetan and Nepal culture. You will be overwhelmed by Thakali Hospitality which is definitely the recipe you might not have tasted. The trek has to offer you the majestic vista of the Himalayas, ever-flowing rivers, barren and arid land with dry farms, with the majority of apples and oak production. The scenic ride to Upper Mustang gives you an opportunity to admire the uniqueness of rugged trails, views of mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and tree-less landscape.

Before pacing up for Upper Mustang Biking, we will visit some significant place in Kathmandu valley. Witness the majestic mountain ranges and the impressive landscape is definitely a ground-breaking experience. Since Upper Mustang is a perfect mountain biking destination, Biking in Upper Mustang is a phenomenal experience that certainly adds zest to the meaning of Life. That is why, every year, thousands of traveler traverse here and do biking to fill their soul with adventurous spirits.

The arid place and barren land offer a great pathway for biking in Upper Mustang. If you are looking for an awe-inspiring adventure, then Upper Mustang Biking is definitely the right choice.

Best Season:

For biking in the Annapurna and Upper Mustang region, the best time to visit is during the dry seasons of autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). During these seasons, the weather is dry, and the temperature is moderate, making it ideal for biking.

Rules and Permits:

As for permits and regulations, the Annapurna and Upper Mustang region falls under the Annapurna Conservation Area and the Mustang region. If you plan to bike in these areas, you need to obtain the following permits:

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit is mandatory for biking in the Annapurna region. You can obtain the permit at the conservation area’s entry checkpoint in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
  • Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit: This permit is mandatory for biking in the Upper Mustang region. You can obtain the permit from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu.

It is essential to follow the traffic regulations and safety guidelines while biking in Nepal. Wear a helmet, carry a map or GPS, and be cautious of traffic and road conditions. Moreover, be respectful of local culture and traditions, and do not litter or damage the environment.

Outline Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 02: Warm Up Ride in Kathmandu

Day 03: Kathmandu to Besishar by Jeep

Day 04: Besishar(760m) to Taal(1700m)

Day 05: Taal(1700m) to Chame(2670m)

Day 06: Chame(2670m) to Manang(3540m)

Day 07: Manang Rest and Acclimatization

Day 08: Manang(3540m) to Throng Phedi(4450m)

Day 09: Throng Phedi(4450m) to Muktinath(3760m) viaThrong La(5416)

Day 10: Biking muktinath to chele (3050m)

Day 11: Biking chele to syanboche( 3800m)

Day 12: Syanboche to Morang (3560m) Via Dhakma, Mui La (4170m) and Ghar Gompa

Day 13: Biking Morang to Lo Mantang (3810m) via HIgh passes (4365m)

Day 14: Lo Mantang Sightseeing

Day 15: Biking Lo Mantang to Ghara (3690m)

Day 16: Biking Ghara to Tangye(3240m)

Day 17: Biking Tangye to Chhusang (2980m)

Day 18: Biking Chhusang to Jomsom (2270m)

Day 19: Biking Jomsom to Tatopani (860m)

Day 20: Biking Tatopani to Beni, Jeep to Pokhara

Day 21: Fly to Kathmandu

Day 22: Departure from Nepal

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Detail Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu: This day marks the arrival of the participants in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. They will be received at the airport and transferred to the hotel for rest and freshening up.

Day 02: Warm-Up Ride in Kathmandu: Participants will go for a warm-up ride in the city of Kathmandu to get familiarized with the terrain and their bikes.

Day 03: Kathmandu to Besishar by Jeep: The participants will leave Kathmandu by jeep and head towards Besishar, the starting point of their biking adventure.

Day 04: Besishar(760m) to Taal(1700m): The first day of biking begins as the participants ride from Besishar to Taal, a small village situated at an altitude of 1700m.

Day 05: Taal(1700m) to Chame(2670m): The second day of biking involves riding from Taal to Chame, a village situated at an altitude of 2670m.

Day 06: Chame(2670m) to Manang(3540m): On the third day, participants will bike from Chame to Manang, a beautiful village situated at an altitude of 3540m.

Day 07: Manang Rest and Acclimatization: Participants will rest and acclimatize in Manang to prepare for the high altitude biking ahead.

Day 08: Manang(3540m) to Throng Phedi(4450m): On the fourth day of biking, participants will ride from Manang to Throng Phedi, a village situated at an altitude of 4450m.

Day 09: Throng Phedi(4450m) to Muktinath(3760m) viaThrong La(5416): The most challenging day of the biking adventure involves crossing the Throng La pass at an altitude of 5416m and biking down to Muktinath at an altitude of 3760m.

Day 10: Biking Muktinath to Chele (3050m): Participants will bike from Muktinath to Chele, a village situated at an altitude of 3050m.

Day 11: Biking Chele to Syanboche( 3800m): The biking adventure continues as participants ride from Chele to Syanboche, a village situated at an altitude of 3800m.

Day 12: Syanboche to Morang (3560m) Via Dhakma, Mui La (4170m) and Ghar Gompa: The route from Syanboche to Morang involves biking over two high passes, Mui La (4170m) and Ghar Gompa, and descending to Morang at an altitude of 3560m.

Day 13: Biking Morang to Lo Mantang (3810m) via High Passes (4365m): Participants will bike from Morang to Lo Mantang, the ancient capital of Mustang, passing through high passes at an altitude of 4365m.

Day 14: Lo Mantang Sightseeing: Participants will spend the day sightseeing and exploring the ancient capital of Mustang, Lo Mantang.

Day 15: Biking Lo Mantang to Ghara (3690m): The biking adventure continues as participants ride from Lo Mantang to Ghara, a village situated at an altitude of 3690m.

Day 16: Biking Ghara to Tangye(3240m): Participants will bike from Ghara to Tangye, a small village situated at an altitude of 3240m.

Day 17: Biking Tangye to Chhusang (2980m) Today’s ride will take us through beautiful landscapes and small villages as we make our way towards Chhusang. Along the way, we will cross several suspension bridges and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. We will spend the night in Chhusang.

Day 18: Biking Chhusang to Jomsom (2270m) Today’s ride is relatively easy as we mostly ride downhill towards Jomsom. We will pass through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, which is the deepest gorge in the world, and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. We will spend the night in Jomsom.

Day 19: Biking Jomsom to Tatopani (860m) Today, we will ride downhill towards Tatopani, which is known for its natural hot springs. We will take a dip in the hot springs to relax our muscles after several days of riding. We will spend the night in Tatopani.

Day 20: Biking Tatopani to Beni, Jeep to Pokhara Today, we will ride from Tatopani to Beni and then take a jeep to Pokhara. We will spend the night in Pokhara and enjoy a well-deserved rest after our biking adventure.

Day 21: Fly to Kathmandu Today, we will take a short flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, we will have some free time to explore the city and do some last-minute shopping.

Day 22: Departure from Nepal Our adventure comes to an end today as we transfer to the airport for our departure flight. We say goodbye to our fellow bikers and take with us memories of a lifetime of biking in the stunning Annapurna and Upper Mustang regions of Nepal.

Cost Included

Inclusions:

  • All necessary permits for the trek and biking
  • Domestic flights (Jomsom-Pokhara and Pokhara-Kathmandu)
  • All ground transportation including airport transfers
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast
  • Accommodation during the trek and biking in tea houses or camping
  • Meals during the trek and biking (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Experienced English-speaking guide and porters (for the trek)
  • Bikes for the biking portion of the trip
  • Basic first aid kit and oxygen cylinder
  • Insurance and equipment for guide and porters

 

Exclusions:

  • International flights to and from Kathmandu
  • Nepalese visa fee
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except breakfast)
  • Personal expenses such as phone calls, laundry, and bar bills
  • Tips for guide and porters (at your discretion)
  • Any extra costs due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays or cancellations, natural disasters, political unrest, etc.

Before You Go

Before you go on the Annapurna and Upper Mustang biking tour, it’s important to take care of a few things:

  1. Get a valid passport and visa: You will need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your expected return date. You can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at the Kathmandu airport or the Nepal embassy in your country.
  2. Get travel insurance: Travel insurance is highly recommended for this trip. Make sure it covers emergency medical and evacuation expenses, as well as trip cancellation and interruption.
  3. Get vaccinated: Visit a travel health clinic to get up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations for Nepal.
  4. Pack appropriately: Bring appropriate clothing and gear for both biking and trekking, including a warm jacket, rain gear, and sturdy hiking or biking shoes. Don’t forget to bring any necessary medication or personal items.
  5. Stay hydrated: Staying hydrated is crucial at high altitudes. Bring a refillable water bottle and consider bringing water purification tablets.
  6. Respect local customs: Nepal is a predominantly Hindu country with Buddhist influences. Respect local customs and dress modestly when appropriate.
  7. Be prepared for the unexpected: The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so be prepared for changes in the itinerary or delays due to weather conditions. Also, be prepared for the physical demands of the trip, including high altitude and strenuous biking and trekking.

FAQ:

  1. What is Annapurna & Upper Mustang Biking?

Annapurna & Upper Mustang Biking is a biking tour in Nepal that combines two popular mountain biking destinations – the Annapurna Circuit and the Upper Mustang region. The tour takes you through a diverse landscape of lush forests, rice paddies, barren highlands, and ancient Tibetan villages, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.

  1. How long is the Annapurna & Upper Mustang Biking tour?

The Annapurna & Upper Mustang Biking tour is typically 18-21 days long, depending on the itinerary you choose. The tour covers a distance of approximately 600-700 km (373-435 miles) and involves a mix of on-road and off-road biking, with some challenging ascents and descents.

  1. When is the best time to do the Annapurna & Upper Mustang Biking tour?

The best time to do the Annapurna & Upper Mustang Biking tour is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, when the weather is mild and dry, and the visibility is excellent. These seasons offer the best chance to enjoy clear mountain views and comfortable temperatures.

  1. Do I need to be an experienced biker to do the Annapurna & Upper Mustang Biking tour?

Yes, the Annapurna & Upper Mustang Biking tour is challenging and requires a good level of fitness and biking experience. The tour involves some steep ascents and descents, rocky and uneven terrain, and high-altitude passes, which can be physically demanding. It’s recommended that you have prior mountain biking experience and are comfortable riding on technical trails.

  1. What should I pack for the Annapurna & Upper Mustang Biking tour?

You’ll need to pack appropriate biking clothing, including padded shorts, a comfortable jersey, and a helmet. You’ll also need a good quality mountain bike, spare parts, and repair tools. Other essential items include a hydration pack, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. It’s also recommended to bring warm clothing, a down jacket, and a sleeping bag for cold nights.

  1. Is it safe to do the Annapurna & Upper Mustang Biking tour?

The Annapurna & Upper Mustang Biking tour is generally considered safe, but there are some risks associated with high-altitude biking, including altitude sickness and hypothermia. It’s important to take proper precautions, including proper acclimatization, staying hydrated, and being prepared for changing weather conditions. It’s also recommended to bike with an experienced guide or a local biking company to ensure your safety and enjoyment of the tour.

  1. Do I need any permits for the Annapurna & Upper Mustang Biking tour?

Yes, you’ll need several permits to do the Annapurna & Upper Mustang Biking tour. These include the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit, and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) permit. You can obtain these permits from the Nepal Tourism Board or through a registered biking company.

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