Mustang Motorbike Adventure – Ride to the Last Forbidden Kingdom
This 9-day Mustang motorbike trip is one of Nepal’s most iconic adventures for riders with moderate to advanced experience. The variety of landscapes—from the lush mid-hills of Bandipur and Pokhara to the stark deserts and ancient culture of Mustang—creates an incredible sensory journey. The motorbike route is a mix of paved roads, gravel tracks, and rough terrain, challenging riders’ skills while rewarding them with spectacular Himalayan vistas.
Bandipur’s charm and Pokhara’s lakeside leisure offer perfect breaks from the ruggedness, and Mustang itself is a cultural and geographical marvel. The altitude changes demand good physical preparation and careful acclimatization, but the trip is well-supported by guides, mechanics, and reliable accommodations.
Practical Considerations
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Altitude: The trip ranges from about 900 meters to 3,810 meters. Riders should be aware of altitude sickness symptoms and take rest days seriously, especially in Mustang. Hydration and gradual ascent are crucial.
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Permits: Special permits are mandatory for Mustang (Upper Mustang Special Permit) and other conservation areas (ACAP, TIMS). These are arranged by tour operators but require advance planning.
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Bike and Gear: Royal Enfield Himalayan or similar adventure bikes are ideal, equipped with off-road tires and luggage racks. Helmets, riding gear, and repair kits are essential. Maintenance support is usually available along the route.
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Accommodation: The trip features a mix of boutique lodges (Bandipur), lakeside hotels (Pokhara), and simple but clean guesthouses (Jomsom, Lo Manthang). Accommodations are comfortable enough for good rest but reflect local styles.
Summary of Road Conditions
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Kathmandu to Bandipur: Mostly paved highway, occasional rough patches.
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Bandipur to Pokhara: Smooth paved roads.
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Pokhara to Jomsom: Mixed paved and gravel, bumpy in parts.
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Jomsom to Lo Manthang: Rough gravel and dirt; challenging terrain.
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Return trip: Similar conditions as the onward journey.
The ride through Mustang involves varying terrains, from paved highways to challenging off-road sections. The most difficult stretches are between Jomsom and Lo Manthang, requiring good riding skills and caution.
Altitude Overview
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Kathmandu: 1,345 meters
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Bandipur: 1,030 meters
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Pokhara: 900 meters
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Jomsom: 2,720 meters
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Lo Manthang: 3,810 meters
Acclimatization is crucial, especially when ascending beyond 2,500 meters. Day 6’s rest in Lo Manthang helps prevent altitude sickness.
Accommodation Details
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Kathmandu: Comfortable 3-star hotels with modern amenities and easy access to Thamel.
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Bandipur: Boutique lodges and heritage guesthouses that offer traditional architecture and Himalayan views.
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Pokhara: Lakeside hotels providing comfort, great food, and beautiful scenery.
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Jomsom: Simple guesthouses with basic but clean facilities; essential for rest and acclimatization.
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Lo Manthang: Traditional lodges or guesthouses offering basic comfort with local flavor; warm hospitality and Tibetan-style decor.
Tips for the Mustang Motorbike Trip
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Bike Preparation: Use an adventure bike like the Royal Enfield Himalayan. Carry a repair kit and spare parts.
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Riding Gear: Helmets, riding jackets, gloves, and boots are essential for protection.
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Physical Fitness: Good fitness and some riding experience on rough terrain are required.
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Health Precautions: Stay hydrated and watch for altitude sickness symptoms.
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Permits: Upper Mustang Special Permit and other trekking permits are mandatory.
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Weather: Best time to ride is spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) for stable weather.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,345m)
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu’s vibrant tourist hub. Meet your guide and mechanic for a briefing on the route, safety measures, permits, and motorbike inspection. Spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring Kathmandu’s bustling streets.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Bandipur (1,030m) – 140 km, 5–6 hours ride
Start your ride westward to Bandipur, a beautiful hilltop town known for its preserved Newari architecture and spectacular mountain views. The road passes through scenic hills and terraced fields. Explore Bandipur’s cobbled streets and enjoy panoramic sunset views of the Himalayas.
Accommodation: Boutique lodge in Bandipur.
Day 3: Bandipur to Pokhara (900m) – 80 km, 3 hours ride
Descend from Bandipur to the lakeside city of Pokhara. This easier riding day gives you a chance to relax. Spend the afternoon enjoying Phewa Lake, visiting local markets, or relaxing in cafes.
Accommodation: Lakeside hotel in Pokhara.
Day 4: Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720m) – 130 km, 6–7 hours ride
Ride along the Kali Gandaki Valley towards Mustang. Pass through Tatopani, known for its hot springs, and Marpha, a quaint village famous for apples and Tibetan-style houses. Arrive in Jomsom and acclimatize to the higher altitude.
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Jomsom.
Day 5: Jomsom to Lo Manthang (3,810m) – 100 km, 6–7 hours ride
Cross high mountain passes and barren landscapes to reach Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Mustang. Pass through traditional villages like Kagbeni and Ghami en route.
Accommodation: Traditional guesthouse in Lo Manthang.
Day 6: Explore Lo Manthang
Spend a full day exploring Lo Manthang’s monasteries, royal palaces, and local culture. Experience Tibetan Buddhist rituals and meet locals who maintain centuries-old traditions.
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Lo Manthang.
Day 7: Lo Manthang to Jomsom (2,720m) – 100 km, 6–7 hours ride
Begin your return journey to Jomsom, enjoying the stunning landscapes and stopping in villages along the way.
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Jomsom.
Day 8: Jomsom to Pokhara (900m) – 130 km, 6–7 hours ride
Descend to the greener valley of Pokhara. Spend your evening relaxing by the lake or exploring the town’s shops and cafes.
Accommodation: Lakeside hotel in Pokhara.
Day 9: Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,345m) – 200 km, 6–7 hours ride
Complete the final leg of your journey back to Kathmandu via the scenic Prithvi Highway. Celebrate the successful completion of your adventure with a farewell dinner in the city.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.
✅ COST INCLUDES
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One motorbike per person provided in Kathmandu
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Licensed Guide and Mechanic, including all their expenses
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Motorbike Insurance
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Permits: Upper Mustang Permit & Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
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Maps: Upper Mustang and Annapurna Region
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All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the bike ride outside the city
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Government-registered English-speaking local expert guide
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Accommodation in Kathmandu hotel with breakfast
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Guided city tour with expert tour guide
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Welcome and farewell dinner in the city
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Insurance for all bikes and staff
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First Aid Kit
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Salary, allowances, expenses, and insurance for all staff
❌ COST EXCLUDES
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Nepal Visa: Multiple entry, 30 days – USD 40
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Lunch and dinner during hotel stay in Kathmandu / Pokhara
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Personal gear & clothing (available on hire)
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Tips for Guide and Mechanic/Technician
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Expenses due to emergency evacuation, road block, or delays
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Table drinks, snacks, alcoholic beverages, mineral water
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Personal insurance including medical evacuation in case of emergency
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Services not mentioned above
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Expenses due to accidents, landslides, strikes, political unrest, etc.
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Fuel costs for bikes
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Personal expenses such as laundry, phone, or other items
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Entrance fees for sightseeing in city or major monuments
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Lost or accidental damage insurance for personal belongings
Tour Reviews
The Mustang Moto Bike Trip offers thrilling rides through majestic Himalaya landscapes, remote villages, and rich cultural sites. For an unforgettable Nepal and Tibet motorbike adventure, we highly recommend Nord Extreme Himalaya.
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