Upper Mustang Motorcycle Tour - 13 Days

Embark on the adventurous motorcycle tour into the discreet Lo Kingdom of Upper Mustang. A part of the Tibetan Plateau, Upper Mustang mirroring the desert-like landscape spanning throughout Kali Gandaki valley in the south and the Lo valley in the north. The northernmost part of the region neighbors with Tibet, hence, the majority of culture, tradition, lifestyle, cuisine, and architecture of Upper Mustang resembles that of Tibet. You will also witness several Buddhist Chortens, Monastery (Gompas), Tibetan-styled huts, Mani stones, and prayer flags throughout the trail.

The most exciting part of this tour is entraining on your motorbike and cruise along the lush green hills, massive mountains and rivers, and remote settlements into one of the least explored habitable regions in the world. You will be entering the restricted area that was only opened for tourists as recent as 1992 AD with a 500 CC Classic Enfield or a 411 CC Enfield Himalayan Motorbike. The major highlights include the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki, panoramic view of the mountains like Annapurna South (8091m) and Dhaulagiri (8167m), paying homage to Muktinath (A Hindu Mukti-Kshetra), visiting man-made caves dating 3000 years, and visiting Lo Manthang (the walled city).

Upper Mustang Motorcycle Tour commences from Kathmandu. The tour then heads toward Pokhara, advancing to Kalopani village in the Kali Gandaki region, spanning almost 321 kilometers. The ride takes you to the north, passing the Kali Gandaki gorge into Mustang district. The rugged and dusty trail then continues through Jomsom towards Muktinath. You can witness the revered site of Muktinath Temple and Guru Padmasambhava before heading further north towards Ghami. You will gradually exit Kali Gandaki valley and enter the former Kingdom of Lo to arrive at Lo Manthang.

After exploring the ancient city, monasteries, and the royal palace of the former king of Mustang, you will ride towards Kora La (Tibetan Border) and Chooser Cave before heading back to Kagbeni village. You will then retrace your path and continue riding alongside the beautiful Kali Gandaki River towards Beni. A 100 kilometer stretch of paved road will bring you back to the touristic city of Pokhara. Enjoy the end of the trip exploring the beautiful Pokhara city and some of its popular tourist sites such as Phewa Lake, Pokhara Peace Stupa, and Gupteshwor Cave before heading back to Kathmandu.

Amazing Nepal Treks Pvt. Ltd. has been organizing the finest hand-picked treks and tours throughout Nepal for the last 15 years. We provide a complete holiday package inclusive of transportation, accommodation, meals, permits, and qualified staff. 

Trip highlights 

• Get on board for an adventurous motorbiking tour to one of the discreet and culturally rich destinations in the world.
• Enjoy the picturesque mountain ranges of Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri
• Get a chance to visit Muktinath Temple, one of the historical Mukti Kshetra and a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava.
• Drive to Nepal-Tibet Border at Kora La and explore the ancient Chooser and Jhong caves.
• Relish the rich indigenous cuisine of Thakali meal and the local apple-brandy of Marpha.

Cost & Motorcycles

• Royal Enfield Classic 350cc – US$ 3,250
• Royal Enfield Himalayan 411cc – US$ 3,400
• Passenger (non-rider) – US$ 2,490
• Single occupancy supplement – US$ 390
• Refundable security deposit – US$ 200

• Arrival and departure airport transfer arrangement
• Welcome dinner at one of the best Nepalese restaurant with traditional ethnic music and dance
• Royal Enfield motorcycle rental with fuel
• Comfortable twin-room accommodation
• Daily breakfasts and lunches
• Required permits (Upper Mustang Special Permit, ACAP, TIMS)
• Motorcycle spare parts, trip leader (road captain) and mechanics.
• Backup jeep for groups of 5+ riders
• Souvenirs from the organizers
• Farewell dinner

What’s Not Included

• International flights to/from Kathmandu
• Nepal visa fees
• Dinners (except for welcome and farewell dinner)
• Personal gear/equipment
• Personal expenses and medical expenses
• Personal insurance
• Emergency evacuation cost in case of need
• Cost of any damage to a bike
• Tipping
• Optional adventure activities (paragliding, bungee, etc.)
• Anything that is not mentioned in the 'Service Included' section

Best Time to Go

The ideal riding seasons are:

• Spring (March to May) – Clear skies, blooming landscapes, and moderate temperatures.
• Autumn (September to November) – Excellent visibility, dry trails, and vibrant local festivals.

Note: Monsoon (June–August) brings landslides and slippery roads. Winter (December–February) can be very cold, especially above 3,500m.

Motorbike Information

We provide well-maintained, high-performance bikes suitable for Himalayan terrain:

• Royal Enfield Classic 500 / Himalayan 411cc
• Honda CRF 250 (upon request)

Included:

• Helmet (compulsory)
• Spare parts and mechanical support
• Fuel for the entire trip
• Experienced mechanic and backup vehicle

Riders must have solid off-road experience and a valid international motorcycle license.

Permits Required

Traveling to Upper Mustang requires multiple permits:

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – USD 500 per person for 10 days (USD 50/day extra after 10 days)
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – NPR 3,000 (~USD 25)
• TIMS Card – NPR 2,000 (~USD 15)

Permit fees are included in the package. 

Accommodation

• Kathmandu & Pokhara – Tourist standard hotels (twin-sharing, ensuite)
• Mustang Region – Basic teahouses or guesthouses with shared rooms and bathrooms
• Facilities may be limited in remote areas, especially above Kagbeni

 Meals

• Included: 3 meals per day during the ride (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
• Nepali, Tibetan, and limited Western dishes available
• Drinking water available (boiled or bottled)

Carry energy snacks, water purification tablets, and rehydration salts.

Health & Altitude

• Highest point: Kora La Pass (4,660m)
• Altitude sickness is rare but possible. We follow a gradual ascent to help acclimatize.
• Basic first aid provided; emergency evacuation support is available.

Recommended:

• Consult your doctor about high-altitude travel
• Carry personal medications and travel insurance covering motorbiking and high altitude

 Packing List

• Valid International Driving Permit (IDP) + Passport copies
• Protective riding gear (jacket, gloves, boots, knee/elbow guards)
• Sunglasses, lip balm, sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Down jacket, thermal layers, and windproof outerwear
• Personal hygiene items, quick-dry towel, power bank
• Riding backpack or small daypack

Communication & Power

• Mobile coverage is available in most towns (NCell or NTC SIM)
• Limited signal in Lo Manthang and remote areas
• Charging possible at lodges (may cost extra)

Money Matters

• Carry cash (Nepali Rupees) for drinks, snacks, and small expenses
• ATMs available in Kathmandu and Pokhara only
• Mustang region does not have reliable ATM service 

Cultural Respect

• Upper Mustang is a culturally sensitive and sacred region
• Respect local customs, monasteries, and dress codes
• Always ask before taking photos of people or religious sites

Travel Insurance

• We would like to recommend you to get your tour insured. Since you are riding in probably one of the wildest and challenging routes, you need to be cautious of anything inevitable. You may need helicopter evacuation and get your trip canceled. 

Size of Group:

• Tour Group Size of our group can range from two people to ten people. In case you want to travel alone, do not hesitate to write to us. We will plan accordingly. In case, you more than ten people, please do let us know so that we can develop and improvise plans and itinerary.

Briefing of the Tour:

• You will be briefed about the tour, you will be given an information file, and importantly introduced with your guide.

Crews:

• We will provide government registered, well-trained English Speaking guide, who holds enough knowledge about responsible tourism and eco-friendly tourism
• We will also provide a Road Caption and Bike Mechanic.
• We get our crews’ life get insured.

Riding through the rugged Himalayan terrain demands appropriate gear for safety, comfort, and weather protection. Below is a comprehensive list divided into key categories:

Essential Riding Gear (Mandatory)

•  Full-face helmet (DOT/ECE certified; provided if needed)
•  Riding jacket with armor (shoulders, elbows, back – waterproof or windproof recommended)
•  Riding pants with knee and hip protection
•  Motorcycle gloves (water-resistant, armored)
•  Riding boots (ankle-protected, off-road friendly)
•  Protective eyewear/goggles (if using open-face helmet)
•  Kidney belt or lower back support (highly recommended)

Note: Most essential riding gear is available for rent. Bringing your personal gear ensures better fit and hygiene.

Clothing – Layering for Varied Climates

• 2–3 moisture-wicking base layer t-shirts (synthetic or merino wool)
• 1–2 warm mid-layers (fleece or light down jacket)
• 1 thermal innerwear set (top & bottom)
• 1 insulated down or synthetic jacket (for Lo Manthang & higher passes)
• 2–3 pairs of quick-dry riding pants/trousers
• Comfortable pants or jeans for evenings
• Waterproof windbreaker or shell jacket (if riding gear is not waterproof)
• 4–5 sets of underwear and socks (including thermal or wool socks)
• Neck gaiter or buff (dust and cold protection)
• Warm hat/beanie and sun hat/cap
• Casual shoes/sandals for walking around in the evening

Personal Hygiene & Toiletries

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap/shampoo
• Face wipes / wet tissues
• Quick-dry travel towel
• Lip balm with SPF
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Hand sanitizer
• Razor & shaving kit (if needed)
• Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)

Accessories & Miscellaneous

• Daypack or hydration pack (15–25L) for camera, snacks, water
• Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity minimum)
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Headlamp or flashlight (with spare batteries)
• Small lock for your bag
• Power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh)
• Charging cables/adapters (Nepal uses Type C & D plugs, 230V)
• Travel documents: Passport, visa, travel insurance, international driving license, permits (provided by company)
• Notebook, pen, or journal
• Lightweight sleeping bag liner (optional, some lodges may provide bedding)

First Aid & Medications

• Personal prescription medications
• Diamox (for altitude, consult doctor first)
• Paracetamol, ibuprofen
• Anti-diarrheal (e.g., Imodium)
• Oral rehydration salts or electrolyte tablets
• Band-aids, antiseptic cream
• Motion sickness tablets (for van support or rough roads)

A group medical kit is carried by the support staff, but we recommend carrying your personal mini-kit.

Optional / Luxury Items

• Camera or GoPro + extra memory cards
• Small tripod or selfie stick
• Dry bags or packing cubes
• Lightweight binoculars
• Local snacks or energy bars
• Books or Kindle for leisure

Luggage Recommendations

• 1 duffel bag or soft travel bag (to be carried in the support vehicle)
• 1 small daypack for daily essentials

Hard suitcases are not recommended for this type of trip