Annapurna + Upper Mustang MTB Adventure
USD $3,450 per person
Price varies depending on group size and customized arrangements.
Ride from the lush valleys of the Annapurna Himalayas into the dramatic landscapes of Upper Mustang
This journey combines high-altitude riding, remote Himalayan trails, ancient villages, Tibetan-influenced culture, and spectacular mountain scenery. From the Annapurna Circuit and Thorong La to the hidden valleys and historic trails of Mustang, this is a true adventure across the heart of Nepal.
The Journey
We begin in Kathmandu before transferring to Besisahar, where our Himalayan riding adventure begins.
The route follows the Marsyangdi Valley, climbing through lush forests, waterfalls, traditional mountain villages, and dramatic Himalayan landscapes toward Manang. As we gain altitude, the scenery changes from green valleys to high alpine terrain, with towering peaks rising above 7,000 meters.
After a rest and acclimatization day in Manang, we continue toward Thorong Phedi before taking on the legendary Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters — the highest point of the journey.
From Thorong La, we descend through Muktinath and into the Mustang region, where the landscape transforms once again. The lush valleys give way to dry, dramatic cliffs, ancient villages, Buddhist monasteries, and the distinctive high-desert landscapes of Mustang.
We then continue deeper into Upper Mustang, riding remote trails and historic routes through places such as Kagbeni, Ghami, and Lo Manthang. The journey takes us through one of Nepal’s most culturally unique and spectacular regions before returning south through the Kali Gandaki Valley.
Why Ride This Trip?
This is more than a mountain bike trip. It is a journey through some of the most spectacular and culturally rich landscapes in Nepal.
Ride from green Himalayan valleys and traditional mountain villages to the high alpine terrain of Thorong La, then continue into the unique Tibetan-influenced landscapes of Upper Mustang. Along the way, experience ancient monasteries, remote settlements, incredible singletrack and jeep trails, and some of the highest riding in the world.
With local knowledge, experienced guides and vehicle support, Shared Horizon Nepal takes care of the logistics so you can focus on the riding, the scenery and the adventure.
Itinerary
Day 1 — Kathmandu
Riders arrive in Kathmandu and settle in before the adventure begins.
Day 2 — Kathmandu
Preparation and riding day in Kathmandu, including the Heli Pad and other highlights around the city.
Day 3 — Kathmandu to Besisahar
Jeep transfer from Kathmandu to Besisahar.
Travel time: approximately 6–8 hours.
Day 4 — Besisahar to Tal
34 km | 1,400 m elevation gain | 1,700 m
We hit the Himalayas today. Starting around 780 m and finishing at 1,700 m, we climb through a spectacular narrow canyon along the main jeep road. Glimpses of Manaslu appear throughout the day.
Day 5 — Tal to Chame
27 km | 1,400 m elevation gain | 2,600 m
A climbing-heavy ride through the mountains as we follow the main jeep road toward Chame. We pass through beautiful forest and eventually arrive in Chame, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks.
The local hot springs provide a perfect way to relax after the ride.
Day 6 — Chame to Manang
35 km | 1,500 m elevation gain | 3,500 m
We climb deeper into the Himalayas toward Manang, following the Marsyangdi Valley and taking quieter riding options wherever possible.
Day 7 — Rest & Acclimatization in Manang
3,500 m
A much-needed rest day in Manang to recover and acclimatize to the altitude.
Optional riding or hiking can be arranged depending on conditions and the group.
Day 8 — Manang to Thorong Phedi
19 km | 1,200 m elevation gain | 4,400 m
We leave Manang and continue toward the high mountains, gradually climbing toward Thorong Phedi.
Day 9 — Thorong Phedi to Thorong La to Muktinath
22 km | 1,100 m elevation gain | 5,416 m pass
The big day.
We climb toward Thorong La, the highest point of the journey at 5,416 m. After crossing the pass, a huge descent takes us toward the sacred pilgrimage town of Muktinath.
Day 10 — Muktinath to Samar
30 km | 1,300 m elevation gain | 3600 m
We leave Muktinath and continue north into Upper Mustang, riding through Ghyula Pass (4100 m), dramatic high-altitude landscapes and remote mountain villages.
The route takes us deeper into the unique Tibetan-influenced culture and scenery of Mustang as we make our way toward Samar.
Day 11 — Samar to Ghami
27 km | 850 m elevation gain | 3,500 m
A spectacular day of riding through the heart of Upper Mustang.
We climb and descend through dry valleys, colorful cliffs and remote settlements before reaching the traditional village of Ghami.
Day 12 — Ghami to Lo Manthang
24 km | 1200 m elevation gain | 3,800 m
We continue deeper into Upper Mustang toward the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang.
The route crosses high passes (4300 m) and remote trails, with dramatic mountain scenery throughout the day. Arriving in Lo Manthang is one of the highlights of the entire journey.
Day 13 — Rest & Exploration in Lo Manthang
3,800 m
A day to slow down and experience Lo Manthang.
Explore the ancient walled city, monasteries, traditional homes and surrounding landscapes. Optional riding or hiking can be arranged depending on the group and conditions.
Day 14 — Lo Manthang to Tange
32 km | 1600 m elevation gain | 3,350 m
We leave Lo Manthang and head south toward the remote valleys of Upper Mustang.
This is a spectacular and adventurous section of the journey, with challenging trails, dramatic cliffs and incredible views across the high desert landscape.
Day 15 — Tange to Paa Pass to Chuksang
26 km | 1300 m elevation gain | 2,900 m
One of the most challenging and rewarding days of the adventure.
We ride from Tange toward Paa Pass, tackling demanding climbs before descending through remote Mustang terrain toward Chuksang.
Expect rough trails, high passes, dramatic scenery and a true backcountry riding experience.
Day 16 — Chuksang to Muktinath to Kalopani
47 km | 700 m elevation gain | 2,400 m
We leave Chuksang and make our way back toward Muktinath before continuing south toward Kalopani.
Day 17 — Kalopani to Maldhunga / Pokhara
58 km | 600 m elevation gain | 7,00 m
Our final riding day takes us down the Kali Gandaki Valley toward Maldhunga.
From there, we transfer to Pokhara. Riders who want a little extra time on the bike can choose an optional ride toward Pokhara.
Day 18 — Pokhara to Kathmandu
1,300 m
Drive or fly back to Kathmandu.
Enjoy a final evening in the city, with time to relax, explore, shop, or celebrate the adventure.
Day 19 — Departure
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Namaste and safe travels.
Who Is This Trip For?
he Annapurna + Upper Mustang adventure is designed for experienced mountain bikers who are comfortable with long climbing days, rough jeep roads, technical terrain, and riding at high altitude.
You don’t need to be a professional racer, but you should be confident handling a mountain bike on challenging terrain and prepared for the physical demands of riding in the Himalayas.
This is a demanding adventure with significant elevation, remote terrain, and long days in the saddle. A good level of fitness, previous mountain biking experience, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected are essential.
More Than a Bike Ride
The Annapurna + Upper Mustang adventure is about much more than kilometers and elevation.
Along the way, we experience traditional mountain communities, local food, ancient traditions, Buddhist culture, historic monasteries, dramatic Himalayan landscapes, and the unique Tibetan-influenced culture of Mustang.
From the lush valleys of Annapurna to the high-desert landscapes surrounding Lo Manthang, every section of the journey offers something completely different.
Come ride through two of Nepal’s most legendary mountain regions.
Plan Your Adventure
Want to ride Annapurna + Upper Mustang with us?
Get in touch and tell us about your riding experience, preferred dates, group size, and what you’re looking for from your Himalayan cycling adventure.
Let’s ride Nepal.
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See our complete What’s Included & What’s Not Included guide
