Mustang Mountian Biking

Mustang Mountian Biking

    Mustang the Forbidden Kingdom (Mountain Biking).

    The ‘Last Forbidden Kingdom’ refers to the Mustang district of Nepal, a region that was a restricted area until 1992 and shares a border with Tibet. Mustang boasts a rich culture and heritage, with people living in isolated villages and continuing their traditional way of life. The culture and customs of Mustang closely resemble those of Tibet. The region holds significant spiritual value, with most people practicing Buddhism. You will find Stupas, Mani walls, Monasteries, and Chortens scattered throughout the area. During our journey, we will visit the famous Muktinath Temple, located in lower Mustang. This sacred site is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. The traditional houses in Mustang add to the charm of the landscape, which is nothing short of breathtaking. The terraced fields and valleys are particularly beautiful during the farming season, though large stretches of barren land give the region a semi-desert, arid appearance. In some places, wind erosion has shaped the mountains into stunning, otherworldly forms. The colours of the mountains are unique, and ancient caves can be found in the cliffs. The region’s flora includes alpine grasses, shrubs, and thorny bushes, and it serves as a habitat for snow leopards, blue sheep, and Himalayan Tahr. These features make Mustang unlike any other place in the world.

    The people of Mustang are predominantly Buddhist, and the culture here is both unique and deeply rooted in tradition. One of the great advantages of traveling by mountain bike is the ability to explore every corner of this remarkable region and witness the local lifestyle firsthand. Additionally, the spectacular views of the Himalayas will captivate anyone fortunate enough to visit.

    Our mountain biking adventure will take us across various passes, with altitudes exceeding 3,000 meters. As such, it’s important to be physically fit and prepared for the challenges of high-altitude conditions, including altitude sickness.

    Highlights:

    • Mustang was once known as the ‘Forbidden Kingdom’. Its people, culture, and natural beauty are rich and unique, earning it the nickname ‘Little Tibet’.
    • Located in the trans-Himalayan region, Mustang was a restricted area until 1992. Although it is now
    • open to visitors, there is an entry fee of approximately USD 500 per person.
    • To visit, you will need to obtain a special permit. This requires submitting a scanned copy of your passport in advance, and on the day of your arrival, you must present the original passport at the permit-issuing office before heading to Mustang.
    • The region offers many fascinating sites to explore, including ancient monasteries, caves, and a deeply rooted Buddhist culture and religion.
    • Muktinath, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists, is a must-visit during your trip.
    • Agriculture and animal husbandry are the primary occupations of the people living here.
    • The Kali Gandaki River is the main waterway in the region, and Mustang is also home to the world’s deepest gorge.
    Itinerary
    This is the Plan
    Expand allCollapse all

    Our airport representative will meet you at the airport with a ‘Freewheel Adventure Nepal’ sign, displaying your name. You will be transferred to the hotel. After check-in, we’ll provide a short briefing

    about the trip and take a walk around Thamel.

    We will load our mountain bikes and luggage and travel to Pokhara, located 200 km away. The journey

    takes about 9 hours, during which we will enjoy views of the countryside. We’ll make stops for a simple

    lunch along the highway. The route primarily follows the river and valley, with linear settlements along

    the way. Alternatively, you can choose to fly to Pokhara, a quick 25-minute flight.

    We will take a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, which takes about 25 minutes. Upon arrival, we

    will assemble our bikes and begin riding along the banks of the Kali Gandaki River before ascending

    towards Kagbeni. Once in Kagbeni, we can explore the narrow alleys and wander around the village.

    It’s best to start the ride early to fully appreciate the spectacular views of the Himalayas. Our route takes

    us through villages and over the Gyu La Pass. After crossing the pass, the trail becomes more technical

    as we make our way to Chhusang, then cross the Kali Gandaki River towards our destination, Samar.

    Although the climb is tough, the scenery is incredible, and the area is remote and serene.

    Today, we’ll cross six passes, each above 3,800 meters. The trail is challenging but less steep than

    yesterday’s. Expect a mix of ascents and descents. We’ll stop for lunch in Ghiling and continue for

    another two hours to reach Ghami.

    Today’s route features a 50/50 mix of single-track and regular trail, making it a bit technical. We’ll cross

    two high passes: Chogo La (4,280 m) and Mui La (4,180 m). Some rocky sections may require us to push

    our bikes. Upon arrival in Lo Manthang, we can explore this ancient village and visit the King’s Palace,

    steeped in history.

    We’ll have the day to explore the surroundings, either by hiking or biking. Lo Manthang’s rich culture

    and unique architecture reflect its Tibetan heritage, as many people here are of Tibetan origin. The

    landscape, art, and traditions make this area feel like ‘Little Tibet’.

    We’ll ride above Lo Manthang, heading toward the Chinese border. The views are stunning, and we’ll

    visit ancient caves and monasteries. On a clear day, we can see the magnificent Nilgiri and Annapurna

    mountain ranges.

    Mountain Biking Details: 17 km distance, 700 m ascent, 790 m descent.

    We’ll climb the Lo Pass (4,000 m) for breathtaking views of Lo Manthang, then descend to Dhee (3,400

    m). Afterward, we’ll follow the river basin trail back to Yara for the night. If time permits, we can explore

    Ghara village, located about 5 km from Yara.

    Today, we’ll tackle Pa Pass (4,180 m), a difficult pass that may require us to push our bikes in some

    sections. Afterward, the descent is quick as we drop down to 2,900 meters. The rocky, loose mud trail

    leads us to Chuksang.

    After breakfast, we begin our ride uphill to Muktinath. This is a challenging ascent, but the views of the

    Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri snow-capped peaks are rewarding. Once we reach Muktinath, we’ll have plenty of

    time to visit the Hindu temples and Buddhist shrines and observe the local worship practices.

    We’ll finish the Upper Mustang section of the journey and enter Lower Mustang, reconnecting with the

    Annapurna Circuit. The trail involves some up-and-down sections until we reach Kagbeni, where we will

    arrange for a local vehicle to take us to Muktinath. From there, we’ll ride to the Lupra Pass (4,100 m)

    and descend through the Lupra Valley back to Jomsom.

    We’ll take a morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Once in Pokhara, you’ll have plenty of options for

    relaxation—explore the lakeside area, or enjoy the many restaurants, bars, and shops. If you're in the mood, you can also go for a bike ride around the city.

    After breakfast, we’ll ride back to Kathmandu, a journey that takes about 8 hours. Alternatively, you can

    choose to fly to Kathmandu. Once in Kathmandu, you are free to explore the city or visit the old king’s

    palace.

    On this final day, you can either stay longer in Kathmandu to explore more activities or prepare for your

    return flight. Three hours before your flight departure, we will drop you off at the airport for your

    journey home.

    Cost Details
    Includes
    • Airport pickup and drop-off
    • Standard accommodations in Kathmandu and Pokhara
    • All necessary permits required for the trip
    • Accommodation in basic teahouses during the biking portion
    • An experienced English-speaking guide while biking
    • Domestic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (and, if needed, between Kathmandu and Pokhara)
    • All meals during the biking portion of the trip
    • All required permits
    Excludes
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
    • Bottled beverages, personal expenses, and insurance (we handle evacuation, but the cost will be your responsibility)
    • Delays due to natural calamities
    • Tips for the guide and staff
    Book This Trip