A bike ride tour to Upper Mustang is a thrilling adventure that takes you through the rugged landscapes of the Himalayas in Nepal. The Upper Mustang region is located in the northern part of Nepal and is a remote and restricted area that was closed to foreigners until 1992. This has helped preserve the unique culture, traditions, and way of life of the people who live there.
The bike ride tour usually starts from Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. From there, you will take a domestic flight to Pokhara, which is the starting point of the bike ride tour. The first few days of the tour will take you through the lush forests and hills of the Annapurna region, passing through quaint villages and terraced fields. You will have stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range and the Dhaulagiri range.
After a few days of riding, you will reach the border of Upper Mustang, which is marked by a steep pass called the Kora La. The landscape here changes dramatically, and you will start to see the arid and barren terrain that is typical of the Mustang region. The region is also known for its unique rock formations, ancient caves, and impressive cliff dwellings.
You will continue riding through the Mustang Valley, stopping at small villages and monasteries along the way. You will get a chance to interact with the locals and learn about their culture and way of life. The Mustang region is also home to the ancient capital of Lo Manthang, which is a must-visit destination. The city is famous for its white-washed mud brick houses, narrow alleys, and impressive monasteries.
The bike ride tour to Upper Mustang usually takes around 14-15 days, and you will cover a distance of about 500 km. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn seasons, as the weather is mild and clear. The tour is physically demanding, so it is essential to be in good physical shape and have prior experience in mountain biking. It is also important to have proper equipment and gear, including a sturdy mountain bike, helmet, gloves, and appropriate clothing.
Trip Includes
Arrival and departure by private transport
Accommodation in Kathmandu at 3* standard hotel with breakfast
Accommodation in Pokhara at 3* standard hotel
Royal Enfield Himalayan bike with petrol and fuel
One jeep to carry your personal stuff and bike spares (Only in a group)
Annapurna Entry permit
Upper Mustang special Permit
3 meals a day during the mountain
Twin-sharing accommodation in the Lodge and guest house
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
Guide with driving skills with his entire expenses
One skilled mechanic with his entire expenses (in a group only)
Trip route map
Tax and service charge
Trip Excludes
Meals in Kathmandu except for breakfast and special dinner
Personal nature expenses such as wifi, laundry, hard and soft drinks
Bike tools (in case of damage and need to replace)
Personal gears (helmet, gloves, sunglass etc)
Tipping
Useful Information
If you are planning a bike ride tour to Upper Mustang in Nepal, here is some useful information that can help you prepare for your adventure:
1. Permits: Upper Mustang is a restricted area, and you will need a special permit to enter. You can obtain the permit through a registered trekking agency or the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. The permit costs around USD 500 per person for 10 days and an additional USD 50 per day for each additional day.
2. Weather: The best time to visit Upper Mustang is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild and clear. The winter months (December to February) can be very cold, and the monsoon season (June to August) can bring heavy rains and landslides.
3. Altitude: Upper Mustang is located at a high altitude, with some of the passes reaching over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). It's essential to acclimatize properly, drink plenty of water, and take breaks as needed. It's also a good idea to carry altitude sickness medication.
4. Fitness: The bike ride tour to Upper Mustang is physically demanding, and it's important to be in good physical shape. You should have prior experience in mountain biking and be comfortable riding on rough and rocky terrain.
5. Gear: It's important to have proper equipment and gear, including a sturdy mountain bike, helmet, gloves, and appropriate clothing. You should also bring a first-aid kit, water bottles or hydration pack, and a GPS or map.
6. Accommodation: Accommodation options in Upper Mustang are limited, and you will most likely be staying in basic lodges or guesthouses. It's a good idea to bring a sleeping bag and a warm jacket, as temperatures can drop at night.
7. Culture: Upper Mustang has a unique culture and way of life, and it's important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, ask for permission before taking photos, and be respectful to the locals.
Overall, a bike ride tour to Upper Mustang can be an incredible adventure, full of breathtaking scenery, unique culture, and unforgettable experiences. With proper planning and preparation, you can make the most of your trip and enjoy all that this remote and beautiful region has to offer.