Mustang Motorbike Tour

Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour

The Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour is an epic 12-day journey through rugged Himalayan terrain, remote mountain trails, and some of Nepal's most thrilling off-road routes. From steep ascents and rocky tracks to high-altitude desert landscapes, every day delivers a new challenge and an even greater reward. Perfect for adventure riders looking to escape the ordinary, this expedition combines adrenaline-fueled riding with the rich culture, ancient heritage, and spiritual atmosphere of the hidden kingdom of Mustang.
This tour is fully customizable as per rider preference, group size and schedule.

Highlights

  • High-altitude bike tours in the heart of the Mustang region, one of the restricted areas in Nepal, through off-the-beaten paths. 
  • Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu before embarking on a thrilling and adventurous Mustang motorbike tour. 
  • Discover the prohibited kingdom of Lomanthang to find out the history of Mustang.
  • Immerse yourself in unique Tibetan-influenced cultures and traditions with local hospitality. 
  • Witness the awe-inspiring snow-clad mountain ranges such as Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. 
  • Exploration of ancient monasteries, chortens, medieval temples, caves, and quaint settlements. 
  • Traverse through high-altitude mountain passes such as Marpha and Kagbeni. 
  • Travel to Kagbeni, the gateway of the pilgrimage site Muktinath temple, situated at 4000 m. 
  • A thrilling drive along Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge. 
  • Encounter the centuries-old cave of Chosar.
  • Fully customizable itinerary based on riding style and schedule.

Ride into the hidden kingdom of Upper Mustang, where ancient Tibetan culture, medieval villages, and dramatic Himalayan desert landscapes create one of Nepal's most extraordinary motorcycle adventures. This 12-day expedition is designed for riders seeking challenging off-road terrain, remote mountain trails, and authentic cultural encounters beyond the usual tourist routes. The best time to ride is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when clear skies and stable weather provide ideal riding conditions. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the walled city of Lo Manthang, every day brings a new adventure in one of the Himalayas' most remarkable regions.

Experience the ultimate Himalayan riding adventure on this Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour, a journey that takes you from Nepal’s vibrant capital to one of the most remote and fascinating regions in the Himalayas. Ride through winding mountain highways, dramatic river valleys, traditional villages, and rugged off-road trails as the landscape transforms from lush green hills into the breathtaking desert terrain of Mustang, where ancient Tibetan culture, centuries-old monasteries, and dramatic canyon-like landscapes create one of Nepal’s most unforgettable motorcycle adventures far beyond the usual tourist routes.

Beginning in Kathmandu, the journey follows scenic highways and rugged mountain roads through Pokhara, Tatopani, Jomsom, and Kagbeni before reaching the walled city of Lo Manthang. Along the way, ride through the world's deepest gorge, cross high-altitude desert terrain, and witness breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After exploring the hidden kingdom of Mustang, enjoy an exhilarating return ride through the Himalayas, carrying memories of an adventure few travelers ever experience.

We here at Himalayan Eco Rides provide a package of Mustan Motorbike Tour for 12 days at the best price, providing well-experienced guides and personal bikes like Royal Enfield Himalayan.

Group Size & Support Policy

For groups of 1–3 riders, the package price includes a bike of your choice and a professional mechanic accompanying the tour. A support vehicle is not included for this group size.

For groups of 4–15 riders, the package price includes a bike of your choice, a professional mechanic and a dedicated support vehicle for luggage, spares and assistance throughout the tour.

    Itinerary

    As you land at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, our representative of Himalayan Eco Rides will warmly welcome you on the lap of the Himalayas for an iconic motorbike odyssey.
    From here, you will be transferred to the hotel to unwind in the vibrant city of Thamel. You can stroll around it in the leisure period of the evening. Attend the welcome dinner, which we organized, and meet your guide plus fellow riders while choosing and inspecting your bikes. Inquiry about the doubt topic and prepare well for the motorcycle tour.

    • Max Altitude: 1,400 m
    • Meals: Welcome dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel - Kathmandu

    Depart Kathmandu after breakfast and enjoy a scenic drive through rolling hills, river valleys, and traditional countryside villages. Along the journey, witness changing landscapes, terraced farmlands, and views of the Trishuli River. Upon reaching Bandipur, a beautifully preserved hilltop town, explore its charming stone-paved streets, traditional Newari architecture, local markets, and peaceful viewpoints. In the evening, enjoy a stunning sunset over the Himalayan ranges and experience the town’s unique cultural atmosphere before an overnight stay in Bandipur.

    • Max Altitude: 1,030 m
    • Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel - Bandipur
    • Duration: 5 hours
    • Distance: 145 km

    After breakfast, your riding guide will meet you in Bandipur and begin the journey toward Pokhara. Descend to Dumre and continue along the scenic Prithvi Highway, passing rivers, terraced hills, and traditional villages. Enjoy short refreshment stops on the way before reaching Pokhara, the city of lakes. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax. In the evening, explore the Lakeside area and enjoy local cuisine while taking in views of Phewa Lake and the surrounding mountain scenery.

    • Max Altitude: 822m
    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel - Pokhara
    • Duration: 3 hours
    • Distance: 80 km

    In the morning, wake up being more energized. Then,  have breakfast by enjoying the spectacular vistas of Machhapuchhre with a stunning sunrise in the east. Afterward, travel 90 kilometers on the Baglung Highway to the town of Beni, an ideal spot for a pause to have lunch.
    From here, continuously move on rugged terrain on the recently constructed road to Jomsom alongside the deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki, flanked by the highest mountains, Dhaulagiri (8167M, seventh highest) to the West and "Annapurna" (8091M, 10th highest) to the right until Tatopani. Tatopani is one of the most renowned stop areas for a wonderful overnight due to its natural hot springs.

    • Max Altitude: 1,190 m
    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel - Tatopani
    • Duration: 5 hours
    • Distance: 125 km

    As weather is unpredictable in the Himalayan region, begin the journey early in the morning around 9: 00 am to avoid chilly wind and other obstacles on the path during the Mustang Motor Bike Tour. As you ascend to the higher points, notice changing landmarks, including vegetation and the charm of the environment.
    While traversing diverse terrains, you have glimpses of some of the highest mountains, such as Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri, along with a beautiful view of the Kali Gandaki River. Before reaching Kagbeni, the gateway of Upper Mustang, and Muktinath, you pass through some quaint settlements like Ghasa, Lete, and Jomsom. It’s quite challenging walking through rugged trails but rewarding with its allure.
    Wonderful overnight stay at Kagbeni, a peaceful village encompassed by gigantic and jaw-dropping mountains.

    • Max Altitude: 2,800 m
    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel - Kagbeni
    • Duration: 5 hours
    • Distance: 66 km

    Today’s riding will be more adventurous as you end it in the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, a historically significant settlement with hidden gems. It’s the core of Mustang that offers you amazing scenarios, including majestic mountain views and cultural heritages.
    This ride goes through desert landmarks, off-the-beaten routes that wind via isolated settlements, barren cliffs, and canyon-like formations. As you ascend to the high-altitude points, the air gets thinner, making it difficult to breathe, but the views are more stunning with snow-clad mountains towering in the distance.

    • Max Altitude: 3,840 m
    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel - Lo Manthang
    • Duration: 6 hours
    • Distance: 82 km

    Energize with striking views of the surroundings and begin to explore Lo Manthang, as it’s a perfect opportunity to encounter rich cultural heritages and historical treasures of this ancient city. Ancient monasteries such as Thubchen, Jampa, and Chode Gompas with prayer flags, manuscripts, and sacred relics also show that inhabitants are especially influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. You can get the authenticity of Tibetan Buddhism here after communicating with locals.
    All religious sites give you spiritual satisfaction after exploring deeply, offering a serene atmosphere for reflection and exploration. A discoverer of the Lo Manthang royal palace, the former accommodation of the Mustang Raja (Mustang royal family), has a deep history that showcases the city’s legal past and its significance as the core of the Mustang Kingdom. Moreover, you can also visit Choosan Cave and return to Lomanthang for the night.

    • Max Altitude: 3,840 m
    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel - Lo Manthang

    This journey takes you from the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang toward the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath. The ride moves through the dramatic landscapes of Upper Mustang, passing barren cliffs, deep canyons, and windswept plateaus before gradually descending toward the Kali Gandaki valley. As you leave the remote Tibetan-influenced settlements behind, the terrain becomes more rugged and spiritually significant, eventually reaching the holy temple area of Muktinath, nestled beneath the Himalayas.

    • Max Altitude: 3,800 m
    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel - Muktinath
    • Duration: 6 hours
    • Distance: 110 km
    This journey takes you from the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath, descending from the high Himalayas into the lush mid-hills of Nepal. The ride follows the dramatic Kali Gandaki Valley, passing through windswept mountain landscapes, traditional settlements, and deep river gorges before gradually transitioning into greener hills as you approach Pokhara. The route offers stunning views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges along the way, making it one of the most scenic descents in Nepal.
    • Max Altitude: 822 m
    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel - Pokhara
    • Duration: 6–8 hours
    • Distance: 170 km

    This journey takes you from the serene lakeside city of Pokhara toward the tropical lowlands of Chitwan. Leaving behind the Himalayan backdrop, the ride descends through winding highways, lush hills, river valleys, and small roadside settlements as you gradually enter the warmer Terai region. The landscape shifts dramatically from mountains to flat fertile plains, offering a completely different riding experience before reaching the wildlife-rich area of Chitwan.

    • Max Altitude: 150 m
    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Duration: 6-7 hours
    • Distance: 150 km

    This journey takes you from the subtropical plains of Chitwan back toward the bustling capital city of Kathmandu. The ride follows the East-West and Prithvi Highway sections, gradually climbing through river valleys, winding gorges, and terraced hillsides. Along the way, you pass rural settlements, suspension bridges, and the Trishuli River, with scenic mountain views appearing as you near the Kathmandu Valley. It’s a steady ascent back into the urban heart of Nepal after the wildlife-rich lowlands.

    • Max Altitude: 1,400 m
    • Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel - Kathmandu
    • Duration: 6-7 hours
    • Distance: 150 km

    It’s your final day of vacation in the country of the Himalayas, after an electrifying biking adventure in the Mustang region. Our official will drop you off at the airport 2 or 3 hours earlier than the scheduled flight, and you will bid farewell, promising to give you a chance for another trip to Nepal. Before leaving for your homeland, a high-altitude bike tour, you remember every moment during the Mustang Motorbike Tour with our competent biking guide of Himalayan Eco Rides and fellow riders.

    • Meals: Breakfast
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    Cost Details
    Includes
    • Fully customizable on request
    • Airport pickup and drop-off
    • Domestic flight, Jeep ride or all transportation used during the tour.
    • Tour guides and staff salaries. 
    • Stand-by Mechanic in the tour for emergency breakdown.
    • Support vehicle along the way for a round trip.
    • Full logistics, including accommodation and meals for a round trip.
    • All the fees for official documentation.
    • 13% VAT and tax as per government rules.
    • Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
    • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
    • Staff Insurance.
    Excludes
    • Nepal Tourists Visa Fee.
    • Personal expenses, gear, clothing, telephone calls, laundry and others of a personal nature.
    • From hard and soft, such as beer, wine or other alcoholic and non-alcoholic bottled drinks.
    • Insurance for trip cancellation, medical rescue and emergency evacuation.
    • International flight ticket and departure taxes. 
    • Tips are much appreciated.
    Route Map
    Essential Information

    Before embarking, the riders should have some essential pieces of information that make a journey more easier and adventurous, which is given below.

    The Best Time for the Mustang Motorbike Tour

    A motorbike tour is possible in any season with the best choice of destination and essential equipment for risk-bearers. Autumn and spring are the best for Mustang motorbike tours since they feature stable weather. During this ideal time of the year, you can witness crystal clear skies and jaw-dropping vistas of gigantic mountain ranges, making it iconic for an adventurous ride. In the monsoon season, every part of Nepal receives rain except in some rain shadow regions, including Upper Mustang and Dolpo. Because of heavy rain, the trails get slippery and may cause accidents that ruin your journey. Similarly, the winter is also not appropriate in comparison to autumn and spring due to its cold that decreases to a very low temperature at night. It’s quite difficult to tolerate cold wind while riding on the road during the winter. Himalayan Eco Rides organizes road rides on your special request and your understanding of the trails in any season. If you are physically fit with a sound mindset for challenges during the journey.

    Mustang Motorbike Tour Permits

    Every foreign tourist needs a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card to visit different parts of Nepal. Some restricted areas in Nepal require special permits to explore. Upper Mustang is one of the restricted areas under Nepal’s law that requires a special Restricted Area Permit ( RAP) to enter the region. It was historically closed to foreign tourists until 1992 to preserve traditional Tibetan-influenced culture, wildlife, and the diverse and fragile ecosystem of the Himalayas. Now permits need to control the number of visitors and overtourism in sensitive areas. On the other hand, permits assist in monitoring and managing while conserving the region’s natural and cultural heritage. Similarly, you should verify the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) with RAP to have thrilling riding on the offbeat trails of the Mustang region. Before leaving Kathmandu, you should also do paperwork, such as registration documents with a valid motorcycle license.

    Accommodation During the 11 Days Upper Mustang Bike Tour

    Throughout the 11-day Upper Mustang Bike Tour, Himalayan Eco Ride carefully arranges all accommodations for riders in the best available teahouses, lodges, and guesthouses along the route. As Upper Mustang is a remote, high-altitude desert region, facilities are more basic compared to cities, but we ensure clean rooms, comfortable beds, blankets, and essential rest after each demanding riding day. From Kagbeni to Lo Manthang and the surrounding ancient villages, the stays are selected not only for comfort but also for their unique cultural atmosphere. Many lodges are built in traditional Mustang style with stone walls, wooden interiors, and warm dining areas that provide a cozy shelter against the cold mountain winds. In Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang, relatively better lodges with hot showers and limited Wi-Fi are available, allowing riders to relax and recover. The warm hospitality of the local people, combined with views of barren cliffs, monasteries, and Himalayan landscapes, makes each overnight stay a memorable part of the journey.
    Himalayan Eco Ride manages your accommodation throughout the tour so you can focus entirely on the adventure without worrying about logistics.

    Difficulty level of Adventure motorbike trip in Nepal (Mustang Region)

    Because of the length of time spent riding through the various locations and the unpredictable weather in the Himalayan region, the trek is rather taxing. To continue the voyage with obstacles, more endurance is needed. Altitude sickness symptoms may manifest when you reach greater elevations, leaving you feeling depressed and unfulfilled on your daring riding journey. A vital first aid kit and a knowledgeable guide who understands the medication procedure will help you be prepared for riding.

    There is a significant risk of injury from falls when navigating steep terrain. You should practice yoga and other necessary activities to help you balance your body on rough terrain and avoid all the obstacles. This will help you stay calm on the difficult paths. You may not encounter many difficulties if you bike during the ideal seasons, such as the fall and spring.

    You can prepare for different seasons, but the difficulty level will be higher owing to cool winds and fog that makes it harder to see the routes.  However, strong willingness and determination make your dream of riding true in the Himalayan landmarks with a customized itinerary at the best price.

    Altitude Sickness

    Some riders with exhausted bodies due to long rides may suffer from acute mountain sickness in thin-air areas with high elevations. To avoid altitude sickness, riders should listen to their bodies and get down to lower altitudes as soon as they feel symptoms. The best preventions are to acclimatize before being at the higher points, drink plenty of water, have enough healthier meals and avoid alcohol during the excursion.

    Symptoms of altitude sickness are given below:

    • Headache
    • Dizziness
    • Nausea
    • Vomiting 
    • Breathing problem 
    • Loss of appetite
    • Chest tightness
    • Difficulty sleeping 
    • Blue or gray lips and fingernails 
    • Coughing 
    • Confusion

    Prevention Tips

    • Allow time for altitude adjustment (acclimatization day in Manang)
    • Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol
    • Listen to your body and descend if symptoms appear
    • Ensure your guide is trained in first aid and AMS response
    FAQs

    Yes. Upper Mustang is a restricted area. Travelers need:

    • Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
    • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

    These permits are arranged by the tour operator.

    The highest point is Lo Manthang at 3,840 meters (12,598 ft).

    Yes. Foreign riders must have: A valid motorcycle license An International Driving Permit (IDP) Indian riders may use their standard motorcycle license.

    Yes. Independent travel is not allowed. A licensed guide is compulsory as per government rules.

    The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Unlike other regions, Upper Mustang is also suitable during monsoon (June–August) because it lies in a rain-shadow zone. 

    Upper Mustang lies near the Tibetan border and holds immense cultural and geopolitical importance. To preserve its unique Tibetan Buddhist heritage, traditional lifestyles, and fragile ecosystem +more, the government restricts access.

    The tour is considered moderate. While there is no trekking involved in motorbike or jeep tours, the long off-road drives and high altitude can be physically tiring but the reward is totally worth it.

    Upper Mustang has rough, dusty and off-road tracks. The journey is adventurous and bumpy, especially between Jomsom and Lo Manthang. And this exact road conditions make this ride more thrilling and adventurous.

    Yes, since the tour goes above 3,000 meters. Proper acclimatization, hydration and a gradual ascent help minimize the risk.
    Himalayan eco ride ensures proper acclimatization and has support vehicle for emergencies for riders so they can ride with a peaceful mind.

    You can find Nepali, Tibetan and basic continental meals such as dal bhat, noodles, soups, fried rice, pancakes, tea and coffee at the lodges.You can find Nepali, Tibetan and basic continental meals such as dal bhat, noodles, soups, fried rice, pancakes, tea and coffee at the lodges.

    Electricity is available in most villages, often through solar power. Wi-Fi and mobile networks are limited and may be slow or unavailable in remote areas.

    Yes. The itinerary can be customized based on your time, interests and mode of travel (jeep or bike).

    Yes. Upper Mustang is one of Nepal’s most popular destinations for off-road biking adventures.

    Absolutely. Nepal is safe and hospitable, and our tours are organized with: Professional, respectful staff Supportive group environment Special attention to safety and comfort for women and solo riders

    • Duration 12 Days
    • Trip Grade Moderate
    • Maximum Altitude3,810 m / 12,500 ft
    • Group Size1-12 People
    • StartsKathmandu
    • EndsKathmandu
    • ActivitiesMotorBiking, Off-road Trails
    • Best TimeMar-May and Sep-Nov