The Upper Mustang Motorcycle Tour is a rare journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally preserved regions. Once a restricted area until 1992, Upper Mustang offers a unique opportunity to ride through a rugged Himalayan landscape steeped in ancient Tibetan tradition. This adventurous ride takes you to a thrilling altitude of 4,800 meters, where you’ll witness dramatic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri ranges, pass through timeless Tibetan-influenced villages, and explore sacred monasteries that seem untouched by time.
As you travel through Lower Mustang, visit the white-washed village of Marpha, ride across Nepal’s longest suspension bridge, and descend into the world’s deepest gorge carved by the Kaligandaki River. Your journey will also take you to the sacred Muktinath Temple, a revered site for both Hindus and Buddhists, and finally, to the soothing natural hot springs of Tatopani, the perfect place to unwind.
The people of Mustang—especially the Thakali and Tibetan communities—continue to live in harmony with their harsh but beautiful environment, relying on animal husbandry, trade, and now tourism. This motorcycle adventure is more than just a ride—it's a cultural experience through one of the last true Himalayan frontiers.
Hotel Kalopani
Begin your scenic journey from Pokhara, driving through Beni and following the Kali Gandaki River gorge. En route, pass lush hillsides, waterfalls, and small rural settlements before reaching Kalopani, a beautiful village with panoramic mountain views.
Drive through the windy trails of Mustang via Marpha and Jomsom. Enjoy the stark, changing landscapes as you approach Kagbeni, a picturesque medieval village that marks the entry point to Upper Mustang.
Enter the restricted region of Upper Mustang with a special permit. Travel through remote villages such as Chhusang, Samar, Ghiling, and Tsarang before arriving at Lo Manthang, the walled capital of the former Mustang kingdom.
Distance: 45 km
Drive Duration: Approx. 6 hours (including exploration)
Overnight: Hotel Ghami
In the morning, visit the ancient Jhong (Chhoser) Caves, nestled in cliffs and believed to be centuries old. After exploration, drive back through the dramatic landscapes to the peaceful village of Ghami.
Distance: 90 km
Drive Duration: Approx. 6 hours
Overnight: Hotel Marpha Place
Retrace your route toward the Lower Mustang region and head to Marpha, a charming Thakali village famous for its apple orchards, whitewashed houses, and calm Buddhist ambiance.
Distance: 65 km
Drive Duration: Approx. 6 hours
Overnight: Hotel Natural Spring Inn
Drive down to Tatopani with a scenic detour to visit the serene and lesser-known Titi Lake. Upon arrival in Tatopani, unwind in the natural hot springs known for their therapeutic properties.
Distance: 110 km
Drive Duration: Approx. 6 hours
Conclude your Upper Mustang journey with a comfortable drive back to Pokhara. Enjoy your last views of the Himalayan foothills as you return to civilization.
Important Documents
Passport – Must be valid for at least 6 months.
Driver’s License – International Driving Permit (IDP) if you plan to ride or drive.
Travel & Medical Insurance – Should cover emergency helicopter rescue.
Credit Card & Cash – For visa fees and a USD $200 refundable deposit (if riding).
Prescription Medicines – Bring any personal medication you require.
Sleeping Bag – Nights can be cold, especially in Muktinath and higher regions.
Power Bank – Electricity is not guaranteed 24/7 in remote areas.
Clothing & Gear Checklist
Boots – Waterproof hiking boots or riding boots with ankle protection.
Trousers – Comfortable jeans or riding pants (enduro/MX pants for bike tours).
Thermal Underwear – Required for Mustang and winter tours (Dec–Mar).
Riding Jacket – Preferably with built-in protection and weather versatility.
Light Down Jacket – Ideal for chilly evenings.
Helmet – Full-face helmet is recommended for dust and wind protection.
Gloves – Textile or leather gloves with protection for all conditions.
Small Backpack – For daily essentials like ID, money, camera, and water.
Sunglasses & Sunscreen – Strong UV protection is essential in high altitude.
First Aid Kit – Personal kit with basic medication and items you might need.
Luggage
Main Bag – Carried in the support vehicle. Pack compactly.
Daypack – For items you need during the day. The support vehicle may not always be nearby.
Safety & Health
Nepal is one of the safest countries to travel, full of friendly locals and warm hospitality. However, here are a few things to know:
In Case of Accident
Minor accidents are rare due to low-speed travel.
We carry a first-aid kit and know all local hospitals along the route.
Serious emergencies will involve helicopter evacuation (insurance must cover this).
Altitude Sickness (AMS)
Risk starts above 2,500m. On this tour, you may reach up to 4,000–5,000m.
Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.
We carry Diamox, but bring your own supply if needed.
Symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, and poor sleep. Vomiting may signal serious AMS – in such cases, descent is necessary.
Roads & Driving in Nepal
Expect narrow, winding mountain roads – often unpaved in remote regions.
Driving is chaotic but manageable. Our team will brief you before the tour.
Police rarely check licenses when riding in a group, but your local license or IDP is still required.
Wi-Fi & Connectivity
Wi-Fi is available in most towns.
In Upper Mustang and remote areas, connections can be slow or unavailable. Enjoy some digital detox and real-life moments!
Weather Overview
Spring (Mar–May): Warm and clear, with temperatures around 22°C.
Summer (Jun–Aug): Lush but wet – monsoon season. Be prepared for rain and mud.
Fall (Sep–Nov): Best time for Mustang tours – dry and clear.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold and challenging, especially at high altitudes.
Visa Information
You can get a visa on arrival at Kathmandu Airport.
Cost: USD $25 for 15 days (cash required).
Bring 4 passport-sized photos (3×4 cm) for visa processing.
The best time to ride to Upper Mustang by motorcycle is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer dry trails, moderate temperatures, and clear views of the Himalayan desert terrain. Monsoon (June–August) is also feasible, as Upper Mustang lies in a rain shadow, making it one of the few all-season motorcycle destinations in Nepal.
Yes, Upper Mustang is a restricted region, and you must obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) costing USD 500 per person for 10 days, along with the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These are issued only through registered tour operators, and a minimum of two riders is required by law.
The adventure is moderately to highly difficult, with rough off-road trails, river crossings, rocky switchbacks, and high-altitude passes. Riders need prior experience in off-road or adventure riding, good physical fitness, and confidence handling a dual-sport or dirt bike on unpredictable terrain.
Ideal bikes for the Upper Mustang ride include:
Royal Enfield Himalayan (411cc)
KTM Duke Adventure series
XR or CRF-style dirt bikes
These motorcycles offer enough ground clearance, torque, and stability for rocky climbs and sandy descents.
Major challenges include:
High altitude (up to 3,800m in Lo Manthang)
Loose gravel, riverbeds, and landslide-prone zones
Dust, wind, and unpredictable weather
Preparation with proper gear, riding skills, and acclimatization is essential to avoid injury or breakdowns.
No. Due to the restricted area policy, solo riders are not permitted. You need to be part of a minimum two-person group, and must book through a licensed agency to secure the necessary permits and support.
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