Nepal Grand Traverse Motorcycle Expedition | East to West Adventure

Experience Nepal like never before on an epic 10-day motorcycle expedition that takes you across the country's most diverse landscapes. Beginning at Nepal's eastern border, this unforgettable journey climbs to the breathtaking ridges of Sandakphu before descending through the rolling tea gardens of Ilam. Continue west across the Terai plains to Kathmandu, where you'll explore ancient UNESCO World Heritage Sites and ride to the scenic hilltop destination of Kalinchowk.

The adventure continues through the historic kingdom of Gorkha, the charming hill town of Bandipur, and the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara before reaching the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha in Lumbini. Along the way, you'll experience winding mountain roads, peaceful villages, lush forests, vibrant cities, and open highways, showcasing nearly every landscape Nepal has to offer. Covering approximately 1,850 kilometers, this expedition is designed for riders seeking a complete Nepal motorcycle adventure filled with spectacular scenery, rich culture, and unforgettable riding experiences.

Tour Highlights

  • Ride from Nepal's eastern border across the country to the southern plains.
  • Experience sunrise from Sandakphu (3,636 m) with views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse.
  • Explore the lush tea gardens and hill landscapes of Ilam.
  • Discover Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Ride to Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple and enjoy panoramic Himalayan views.
  • Visit historic Gorkha, the birthplace of modern Nepal.
  • Explore the charming hill town of Bandipur.
  • Relax in the lakeside city of Pokhara.
  • Visit Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Experience nearly every landscape Nepal has to offer in one unforgettable motorcycle expedition.
Itinerary

Ride across Nepal on an unforgettable 10-day motorcycle expedition from the eastern border to the southern plains. Experience the spectacular Himalayan views of Sandakphu, cruise through the lush tea gardens of Ilam, discover Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, conquer the scenic roads to Kalinchowk, explore the historic town of Gorkha, relax beside the lakes of Pokhara, and visit the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha in Lumbini before finishing near the India border. Covering nearly 1,850 km, this is one of Nepal's most diverse motorcycle adventures, combining mountain passes, winding hill roads, cultural landmarks, and breathtaking scenery into one epic ride.

Meet your guide at Kakarbhitta, complete a tour briefing, and begin your adventure heading toward the Himalayan foothills. Cross through Manebhanjang before climbing the winding mountain roads to Sandakphu, one of the highest accessible viewpoints in the eastern Himalayas. Weather permitting, enjoy spectacular views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse before spending the night in this peaceful mountain village.

  • Max Altitude: 3,636 m
  • Meals: Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel - Sandakpur
  • Duration: 6–7 Hours
  • Distance: 140 km

Wake up early to witness sunrise over the Himalayas before descending from Sandakphu. Ride through forested mountain roads into Nepal's famous tea-growing region of Ilam. Spend the afternoon exploring lush tea gardens, scenic viewpoints, and the relaxed atmosphere that makes Ilam one of Nepal's most beautiful hill towns.

  • Max Altitude: 1,408 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel - Ilam
  • Duration: 5–6 Hours
  • Distance: 140 km

Leave the green hills of eastern Nepal behind as you descend into the fertile Terai plains. Ride through scenic countryside, small towns, and agricultural landscapes before arriving in Bardibas. Enjoy a relaxed evening preparing for the journey toward Kathmandu.

  • Max Altitude: 150 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel - Bardibas
  • Duration: 5-6 Hours
  • Distance: 220 km

Today's ride follows the BP Highway, one of Nepal's most enjoyable motorcycling roads. Wind through river valleys, hillside villages, and sweeping mountain curves before arriving in Kathmandu, Nepal's vibrant capital city. Spend the evening exploring Thamel or relaxing after a rewarding day's ride.

  • Max Altitude: 1,400 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel - Kathmandu
  • Duration: 7–8 Hours
  • Distance: 240 km

Ride northeast through picturesque mountain roads toward Kalinchowk, one of Nepal's most popular hill destinations. Ascend to Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, where panoramic views of Gaurishankar, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and surrounding Himalayan peaks await. Spend the night in Kalinchowk and experience the peaceful mountain atmosphere.

  • Max Altitude: 3,842 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel - Kalinchowk
  • Duration: 5-6 Hours
  • Distance: 150 km

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Kalinchowk before descending back to Kathmandu. The return ride offers another opportunity to take in the spectacular mountain scenery and traditional villages. Upon arrival, spend the remainder of the day visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath Temple, and the vibrant streets of Thamel.

  • Max Altitude: 1,400 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel - Kathmandu
  • Duration: 5-6 Hours
  • Distance: 150 km

Ride west through rolling hills and scenic countryside to the historic town of Gorkha, the birthplace of modern Nepal. Visit the magnificent Gorkha Durbar, perched high above the valley, and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding Himalayan foothills while learning about Nepal's rich history.

  • Max Altitude: 1,135 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel - Gorkha
  • Duration: 5 Hours
  • Distance: 145 km

Today's ride combines scenic mountain roads with cultural exploration. Stop in the beautifully preserved hill town of Bandipur before continuing through lush valleys to Pokhara. Spend the evening relaxing beside Phewa Lake with spectacular views of the Annapurna Range.

  • Max Altitude: 822 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel - Pokhara
  • Duration: 5–6 Hours
  • Distance: 175 km

Leave the mountains behind as you descend into Nepal's southern plains. Ride through changing landscapes before arriving in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and prepare for a day of cultural exploration.

  • Max Altitude: 150 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel - Lumbini
  • Duration: 1–2 Hours
  • Distance: 205 km

Spend the day visiting the Maya Devi Temple, Sacred Garden, World Peace Flame, Ashoka Pillar, and the beautiful international monasteries built by Buddhist communities from around the world. This relaxing day offers a perfect contrast to the previous days of riding.

  • Max Altitude: 150 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel - Lumbini
  • Duration: 1–2 Hours
  • Distance: 20–30 km

Complete your Nepal Grand Traverse by riding east across the Terai Highway toward the Nepal–India border at Raxaul. Reflect on an incredible journey that has taken you through the Himalayas, tea gardens, historic towns, sacred pilgrimage sites, and some of Nepal's most unforgettable roads before concluding the expedition. Based on the original route and tour statistics.

  • Max Altitude: 90 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Duration: 6–7 Hours
  • Distance: 275 km
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Cost Details
Includes
  • Fully customizable itinerary upon request.
  • Airport or border pickup.
  • Experienced motorcycle tour guide and support staff.
  • Stand-by mechanic throughout the tour for emergency breakdowns (upon request).
  • Support vehicle for luggage and technical assistance throughout the journey (upon request).
  • Full tour logistics, including accommodation and all meals during the tour.
  • All transportation used during the tour (where applicable).
  • All official permits and documentation required for the tour.
  • Entry fees to attractions and sightseeing included in the itinerary.
  • Staff salaries, accommodation, and insurance.
  • Government taxes, service charges, and 13% VAT.
Excludes
  • Nepal Tourist Visa fee.
  • International flight tickets and departure taxes.
  • Motorbikes and Fuels.
  • Travel insurance, including trip cancellation, medical treatment, rescue, and emergency evacuation.
  • Riding gear and personal motorcycle equipment (unless specified).
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, internet, souvenirs, and other items of a personal nature.
  • Alcoholic beverages and bottled soft drinks.
  • Motorcycle damage caused by negligence or accident (if applicable).
  • Tips for guides, mechanic, drivers, and support staff (greatly appreciated but not mandatory).
  • Any services not specifically mentioned under Cost Includes.
  • Maximum Altitude3,842 m
  • Group Size1-12
  • StartsKakarbhitta
  • EndsRaxual Border
  • ActivitiesMotorbiking Adventure
  • Best TimeMar-May & Sep-Nov
Per Person US$985
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