Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour - 12 Days
12 Days
Hotels, Tea Houses and Camping
Spring and Autumn
30% Cancellation Charge (Personal Reason)
Guided Tour
Covered
English, Deutsch
3,800 m.
BLD
Motorbike
Available
Available
Are you someone who loves riding motorbikes? Do you want to go for a thrilling and adventurous ride to the Upper Mustang on a bike? If your answer to both of these questions is YES, this is the perfect blog for you. We are here with one of the most adventurous and satisfying motorbike ride packages to the forbidden kingdom of Lo Manthang (one of the most loved motorbike riding destinations in the Himalayas).
Before continuing with the bog, we recommend you check some vlogs and photos of Upper Mustang and Lo Manthang. Doing so will increase the excitement of reading the full blog and makes the blog even more sensible for the riders.
This is a 12 days package where you will travel to Muktinath (3,760m/12,333ft) from Kathmandu. If you want to know about the distance from Kathmandu to Upper Mustang, you will ride for approximately 426km one way. The Upper Mustang motorbike tour will be the best option for experienced riders who love to ride off-road and have thrilling motorbike riding experiences.
Highlights of the Tour
To make you more excited about the tour and let you know some of the best things that you can experience during the Kathmandu to Upper Mustang motorbike tour, here are some of the scenic highlights of the tour.
- A thrilling and adventurous motorbike ride across the mountains to the ancient kingdom of Lo Manthang in Upper Mustang.
- Sightseeing some outstanding tourist destinations of Kathmandu Valley, including Changu Narayan Temple, Bhaktapur Durbar, and Nagarkot.
- Visiting one of Nepal's holiest and most worshipped temples, Muktinath Temple in the Upper Mustang.
- Ride through complicated offroad, stony ways, and waterfalls, making the tour even more challenging and adventurous.
- Visit some of the major attractions of the Lomanthang, such as Namgyal Gompa, Champa Lakhang, the five-storeyed King's palace, Thubchen Gompa, Chodey Gompa, and many more.
- Experience the unique lifestyle, culture, and tradition of the people living far away from the urbanized cities.
- Last but not least, the feeling of accomplishment after crossing such challenging routes and reaching the Upper Mustang on a motorbike.
Useful Info
Best time to go for the Upper Mustang Motorbike tour
There is a correct time to do anything; the same goes for the Upper Mustang motorbike tour. If you want the best bike riding experience across the Himalayas, choose the best season and months.
Mustang is considered the coldest desert in Nepal because this region experiences rainfall. This is because the Upper Mustang is the rain shadow part of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan region. However, all the other areas of Nepal experience rainfall in June and July. Therefore, we recommend the tourers not visit the Upper Mustang during these months. During the rainy season, almost every part of the country is full of rain and slippery roads. Therefore, going for the Upper Mustang on a motorbike during the rainy season is not suggested.
The best time to visit the Upper Mustang or Lomanthang on a motorbike is in the spring or autumn when the weather all over Nepal is at its best, and you can experience the best trail from Kathmandu to Lo Manthang.
Permits required
Upper Mustang is a restricted area because of several reasons, such as border security, cultural and traditional safety, and many more factors. As a result, any tourer who enters the restricted area is applicable for the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permits. Furthermore, Mustang also comes inside the Annapurna region, so the trekkers should also obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit before visiting Mustang.
Regarding the cost of the permits, the Annapurna Conservation Area permit is very cheap compared to the Restricted Area permit. The travelers need to pay $20 per person per day for the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), but for the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit, you need to pay $500 for the first ten days and then $50 per additional day.
Outline Itinerary
Now that we have informed you about almost all the details for the Upper Mustang Motorbike trip, it’s time for you to know about the itinerary. Before hopping into the detailed itinerary, here is the outline of the itineraries that the riders will follow during the Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour.
Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (1,400m/4,592ft)-Transfer to Hotel and plan your trip.
Day 2: Test ride to Nagarkot, Changu Narayan, and Bhaktapur – 65 km
Day 3: Ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) – 200 km
Day 4: Drive 145 kilometers from Pokhara to Marpha via Tatopani (Hot Spring) and deepest gorge in the world
Day 5: Drive from Marpha to Samar (3,620m) via Dhumba Lake, Kagbeni, Chhusang. (42 km)
Day 6: Drive from Samar to Lo Manthang (3,730m/12,235ft) via Chungsi Cave, Dhakmar and Ghar Gumba – 59 km
Day 7: Drive to Chhoser via Thingar Visat Caves and Monastaries Bank and overnight at Lo-Manthang (60km)
Day 8: Lo Manthang Excursion Day.
Day 9: Drive to Luri Gumba (4005m) via Dhi, Yara and Ghara village; overnight at Ghami. (30km)
Day 10: Drive to Muktinath and overnight at Kagbeni (53km)
Day11: Drive to Tatopani and enjoy natural hot spring. (58km)
Day 12: Drive to Pokhara. (24km)
Day 13: Pokhara to Kathmandu (200 km).
Day 14: Departure from Nepal
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (1,400m/4,592ft)-Transfer to Hotel and plan your trip.
Welcome to Kathmandu! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, you’ll have a briefing about the Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour. In the evening, explore the bustling streets of Thamel or relax in your hotel as you prepare for an exciting adventure ahead.
Day 2: Test ride to Nagarkot, Changu Narayan, and Bhaktapur – 65 km
Today, you’ll have a test ride around Kathmandu Valley to get comfortable with the motorbike and familiarize yourself with Nepal’s roads. Start by riding to Nagarkot, a popular hill station known for its panoramic Himalayan views, then continue to Changu Narayan Temple, one of the oldest temples in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finish the day with a visit to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, where you can admire the ancient architecture and vibrant local culture before heading back to your hotel.
Day 3: Ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) – 200 km
After breakfast, embark on a scenic ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara. This 200-kilometer journey takes you along winding roads, passing lush hills, rivers, and traditional villages. Pokhara, a city known for its lakes and mountain views, is the perfect spot to relax after a day of riding. Check into your hotel, then enjoy an evening by the beautiful Phewa Lake.
Day 4: Drive 145 kilometers from Pokhara to Marpha via Tatopani (Hot Spring) and deepest gorge in the world.
Today’s ride will take you to Marpha via Tatopani, where you can take a dip in the natural hot springs. Along the way, pass through the world’s deepest gorge at Kaligandaki. Arrive at Marpha, a charming village known for its apple orchards and traditional stone houses. Settle into a local tea house and enjoy the village atmosphere.
Day 5: Drive from Marpha to Samar (3,620m) via Dhumba Lake, Kagbeni, Chhusang. (42 km)
Begin the day with a scenic ride from Marpha to Samar, passing through Dhumba Lake and Kagbeni—the gateway to Upper Mustang. Ride through picturesque villages, barren landscapes, and rugged terrain as you make your way toward Chhusang and onward to Samar, where you’ll spend the night in a tea house.
Day 6: Drive from Samar to Lo Manthang (3,730m/12,235ft) via Chungsi Cave, Dhakmar and Ghar Gumba (59 km)
Today’s journey takes you to the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang. Along the way, visit Chungsi Cave, a sacred Buddhist cave, and Dhakmar Village with its striking red cliffs. Continue to Ghar Gumba, a 1,200-year-old monastery with significant historical value. Arrive in Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang, and settle into your accommodation.
Day 7: Drive to Chhoser via Thingar Visat Caves and Monastaries Bank and overnight at Lo-Manthang (60km)
Embark on an excursion to Chhoser , a region near Lo Manthang known for its Thingar caves and monasteries. Visit the Jhong Cave and other historical sites, learning about the Tibetan-inspired culture of the Mustang region. After a day of exploration, return to Lo Manthang to spend the night.
Day 8: Lo Manthang Excursion Day.
Spend a day exploring the walled city of Lo Manthang. Visit the Royal Palace , various monasteries, and immerse yourself in the traditional Tibetan culture of Upper Mustang. You can also explore local shops for handcrafted goods and learn about the unique customs and heritage of the people here.
Day 9: Drive to Luri Gumba (4005m) via Dhi, Yara and Ghara village; overnight at Ghami. (30km)
Today, ride through the rugged terrain to Luri Gumba , a sacred 14th-century monastery located in a remote cave. Along the way, pass through Dhi Village and Yara Village , where you’ll experience Mustang’s isolated beauty. After visiting Luri Gumba, continue to Ghami , where you’ll stay for the night.
Day 10: Drive to Muktinath and overnight at Kagbeni (53km)
After breakfast, ride to the revered Muktinath Temple , a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Take in the peaceful atmosphere and visit the temple complex. Later, continue down to Kagbeni , a picturesque village on the banks of the Kali Gandaki River, for an overnight stay.
Day 11: Drive to Tatopani and enjoy natural hot spring. (58km)
Today’s ride takes you to Tatopani , known for its rejuvenating natural hot springs. After the ride, relax in the warm waters, soothing your muscles after days of riding through the rugged Mustang terrain. Spend the night in a local lodge in Tatopani.
Day 12: Drive to Pokhara. (24km)
After breakfast, ride back to Pokhara. Arrive in Pokhara in the afternoon, where you can relax by the lakeside, explore the city, or enjoy a celebratory meal after an exhilarating journey through Mustang.
Day 13: Pokhara to Kathmandu (200 km).
Embark on the final ride back to Kathmandu , covering 200 kilometers through scenic landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax. In the evening, you may want to explore Thamel for last-minute shopping or enjoy a farewell dinner.
Day 14: Departure from Nepal
After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. Carry with you unforgettable memories of the Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour, filled with adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes.
Cost Includes
- Airport transfer as per itinerary
- 3 nights twin sharing 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
- 2 nights twin sharing 3-star hotel in Pokhara with breakfast
- Accommodations in standard Lodges/Guest houses in Mustang
- Royal Enfield motorcycle with fuel
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trip
- Experienced trip leader and qualified mechanic
- Motorcycle spare parts, trip leader, and mechanic
- Back-up vehicle for luggage and mechanic
- Upper Mustang permits ($500 per person for 10 days)
- ACAP and TIMS Fee
- Sleeping bag and duffel bag during the trip (refundable)
- Comprehensive Medical Kit
- Toll taxes for bikes and backup vehicle, and government taxes.
Cost Excludes
- Beverages not included during the trip
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu not included
- Entry fee to world heritage site not included
- Travel rescue, insurance, and motorbike insurance not included
- Tips for guide and mechanics, bike gears, international tickets, Nepali visa fee, bar bills, repair charges for motorbike damage,
- personal expenses, etc. not included
- Unforeseen personal expenses, changes to itinerary due to political or weather conditions, etc. not included
Reviews
Professional and good care
The agent, The Great Adventure; The guide Padam; and the porter Syange was very professional and always take good care of me. He was able to adjust the itinerary based on my status. During the most challenging sections—Cho La Pass (5,420m) and the Glacier crossing—my guide provided impeccable safety protocols. Navigating slippery ice and unstable moraines, he identified the safest lines, ensured my microspikes were fitted correctly, and provided steady support in high-risk areas, allowing me to focus entirely on the terrain
The best trip to Nepal
Mani's Chitwan adventure was fantastic. It required minimal mental effort; I just followed the itinerary. Throughout the trip, Mani consistently showed timely care and concern, making it a truly wonderful experience.
You are in good hand while in Nepal 🇳🇵
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mani the tour Manager . We were in touch before we touch down Kathmandu . All ground arrangements were arranged and we were well taken care off. The vehicle is spacious and Ramesh is a safe driver and courtesy guy . He help us to take care of our daughter when we were getting things done during the trip 😁 . Not forget to mentioned that Mani also make it a point to delivered a birthday 🎂 cake and props to the hotel as he learned is my birthday and is our anniversary. I highly recommend this company as you will definitely will be on good hand while in Nepal 🇳🇵 Thank you 🙏 Mani & Ramesh . Regards Cindy Rana Sydney Australia 🇦🇺
One of the best treks of my life! My guide, Binod, is so sweet and passionate about his job and knows everything. Without him this would’ve been such a different experience, because he always makes sure you’re happy and comfortable. The organisation was also perfect so I didn’t have to worry about a single thing. Perfect👌
This trip to Nepal was truly unforgettable, and it’s all thanks to The Great Adventure Treks and Expedition. From the very first moment we arrived, everything was perfectly organized — a private car and driver were waiting for us, and we felt cared for every step of the way. A special thank you to our driver Dinesh Ranaphali — always calm, focused, and extremely professional. We felt completely safe and relaxed during all our journeys. Our guide Lil Bahadur was outstanding: his stories, knowledge, and passion for Nepal’s history, temples, and culture made every tour come alive. We experienced so many incredible moments — flying to Everest by helicopter, tasting delicious Nepalese food, exploring stunning temples in Kathmandu, and relaxing in Pokhara with breathtaking Himalayan views. All of this was possible thanks to Mani, whose dedication, kindness, and attention to every detail turned this trip into something truly special. This is not just a tour company — it’s a team that works with heart. Highly, highly recommended. Thank you as well for the wonderful final dinner. Davide & Marta
On this trip, we found The Great Adventure travel agency online. The owner, Mani, is very easy to communicate with and extremely capable when it comes to arranging itineraries. After arriving in Nepal, if there were any adjustments needed, we could always discuss them with him, and he would do his best to help. Thanks to Mani’s arrangements over the past few days, we were able to visit Pokhara and enjoy the beautiful Himalayan views. We traveled there by car and decided to return by flight, and he took care of everything for us. We are very grateful for his help. If we visit Nepal again in the future, we will definitely ask Mani to assist us again.
