Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour

Itinerary of Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour

Includes/Excludes

Trek Difficulty

This motorbike tour is physically demanding. Riders face long days (5–8 hours) on unpaved mountain roads with steep climbs and rocky sections. The route covers hundreds of kilometers at high altitude. For example, we ascend to around 4,200 m on Mui La Pass and also cross other passes near 3,800–3,900 m, and then descend back to lower valleys. This can tire your legs and lungs. The combination of altitude change and rough terrain requires strong stamina and constant concentration.

Unpredictable weather (wind, dust, cold mornings) can add to the challenge, so layered clothing is needed. Riders should train (cardio and leg strength) beforehand. Even fit riders usually feel muscle soreness on the first few days; however, careful pacing (regular breaks) and following the guide’s advice help manage the strain. By staying active and accustomed to long hours of biking, most travelers handle the trip and enjoy it as a thrilling challenge.

Acclimatization & Altitude Strategy

The tour climbs rapidly, but we start low to help acclimatize. The first nights (Kathmandu and Pokhara) are below 1,400 m. On Day 3 we actually drop to 900 m in Pokhara. Day 4 is 1,190 m (Tatopani), Day 5     3,760 m (Muktinath), and Day 6  3,840 m (Lo Manthang). After that we descend steadily. Because we don’t have a full rest day at high altitude, drink plenty of water, eat high calorie foods, and rise slowly each morning.

Drinking plenty of fluids and eating high carbohydrate meals helps your body adjust. If anyone feels symptoms (headache, dizziness, nausea) above 3,000 m, the group will stop or descend immediately. Avoid alcohol and smoking. Consider carrying altitude medication (acetazolamide) to ease mild symptoms. We encourage short walks each morning at height instead of strenuous exercise.

Staying well-hydrated (3–4 liters per day) is very important, as is getting enough sleep. Our guide will monitor everyone’s condition. Although we reach nearly 4,000 m, symptoms usually ease after a day or upon descent. By pacing yourself, listening to your body, and following the guide’s instructions, most traveler manage the altitude safely.

Accommodation and Meals

Accommodation is twin sharing. You stay in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu (3 nights) and Pokhara (2 nights) with private bathrooms. On the ride, lodging is in simple mountain lodges or teahouses along the route. Lodges are clean with basic facilities; heating is often by small heaters or solar hot water. Hot showers are available at many lodges (usually for a small fee).

Every morning starts with a buffet breakfast (included). During the riding days, all three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included. Lodge owners can accommodate vegetarians and most other dietary needs if informed. If you prefer Western food, Kathmandu and Pokhara have pizza and cafes, but remote villages offer only local cuisine. Lunches are included on all riding days, while in Kathmandu and Pokhara only breakfast is provided.

Tap water is unsafe in the mountains, so drink bottled or boiled water provided by lodges. Carry a water bottle and refill it at lodges. We recommend bringing energy bars and snacks for long rides. Also bring any special foods or supplements you need (e.g. protein bars, hot tea bags). Overall, the meals are hearty and give fuel you for the ride, but we suggest carrying some extra cash for occasional treats or unexpected hunger. ATMs and card facilities are limited beyond Jomsom—carry sufficient cash from Pokhara/Jomsom.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness can affect anyone above 3,000 m. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness or fatigue. We reach up to 3,860 m at Lo Manthang, so monitor yourself each morning. Drink lots of water and move slowly. Our guide carries a first-aid kit and oxygen for emergencies. If someone feels very ill, they will descend to a lower altitude immediately.

Over the counter medication (acetazolamide) or natural remedies (ginger candy) can reduce mild symptoms. Avoid sleeping pills or alcohol at night as they mask symptoms. Keep warm at night with proper clothing. Majority of the riders experience only slight headache or discomfort, which generally disappears after a night or two.

Nevertheless, in case of acute severe symptoms (severe headache, confusion, breathlessness), the only remedy is a drop below 3,000 m and medical assistance. Remaining wary, open communication and adherence to the recommendations of the guide are instrumental in the avoidance of grave problems at altitude.

Best Time to visit

Spring (March–May) and autumn (late September–November) are the best seasons. The weather is usually pleasant and clear during these months, with clear sky views giving great mountain views. During autumn, the days are sunny and warm and the fields are harvest colored. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and mild temperatures. The monsoon (June–August) often brings mud and landslides that can delay riders and close tracks.

Both seasons avoid the heavy monsoon rains (June–Aug) which make dirt roads muddy, and the freezing winter (Dec–Feb) when high passes can snow over. Daytime temperatures in these seasons are comfortable (15–20°C in the valleys), but nights (especially above 3,000 m) can be very cold (around 0–5°C). Light rain or dust can occur in shoulder months, so pack a rain shell just in case.

Peak trekking seasons (Oct/Nov and Apr/May) are popular and fill up quickly, so plan early. In summary, late spring or early autumn offers the safest, most comfortable riding conditions in Mustang. Road closures due to landslides or snow may force reroutes or extra nights; your guide will adjust the plan for safety.

Health and Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Your policy must cover emergency medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, and high-altitude trekking or biking. A mountain rescue flight can cost several thousand dollars, so ensure your plan includes mountain rescue. Proof of insurance covering Nepal is required before departure. Trip cancellation and baggage insurance are also recommended.

Keep copies of your insurance information and emergency contacts. Healthwise, consult a doctor about regular vaccinations (typhoid, hepatitis A, tetanus) before travel and bring any regular medicine. A basic first-aid kit is in the support vehicle. In remote Mustang, medical facilities are basic, so evacuation might be needed for serious issues. With strong insurance and health preparation, you can focus and enjoy the ride. All flights and rides are subject to weather and civil aviation or road safety rules; reroutes or delays may occur.

Fitness and Preparation

Physical fitness will make this tour better. We suggest at least 2-3 months of training: endurance (cardio: cycling, running) and strength training (legs and core) to be able to use the bike. Practice riding long hours if possible. The long days on uneven terrain can be tough. Also, break in your riding gear before the trip (wear your jacket and gloves on practice rides to avoid discomfort). Basic familiarity with your motorcycle (gear shifting, clutch control) helps.

If possible, do some off-road or gravel practice to adjust to slippery sections. Even hiking or stair-climbing exercises can simulate the steep inclines and build lung strength. Finally, mentally prepare for dust, wind and rough roads. Sleeping well and staying hydrated in the weeks prior will also help. By arriving fit and prepared, you’ll find the long days manageable and reduce soreness on the trip.

Guide and Staff

Your adventure is supported by an experienced local team. An English speaking professional guide leads the ride; our guides are seasoned riders who know the Mustang region well. They provide route navigation, cultural insights and safety briefings each day. The group is accompanied by a trained mechanic who maintains and repairs Royal Enfield bikes where necessary.

Spare parts and tools are carried and hence most of the breakdowns are repaired on time. We also have a support vehicle trailing the group. It has your luggage, some spare fuel, water and a first aid kit. If anyone needs a break or cannot ride a section, they can sit in the vehicle. All staff are first-aid trained and look after your needs on the road.

Together with friendly lodge hosts, this crew ensures you are safe, comfortable and on schedule. Feel free to ask the guide about Nepal, culture or the route – they are there to help make your journey smooth and enjoyable. Our licensed guide also fulfills the legal requirement for entering the Upper Mustang Restricted Area.

It is necessary to travel to the upper Mustang area with a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) obtained via a Nepali-registered agency and all riders must have a licensed guide. The RAP needs at least two foreigners. Individual travelers will be paired with another permit to comply. The RAP is issued usually over a period of ten days and extensions are possible; government rates can be varied.

Is this trip beginner-friendly?

No, this is not a beginner-friendly tour. The rugged conditions and the covering of long distances necessitate skill and stamina. The less experienced riders will struggle with quite a number of sections. At least medium motorcycle experience is necessary before considering this route. New riders are advised to begin by taking easier day rides or shorter tours initially.

If a beginner absolutely wants to try it, we strongly advise traveling with an experienced guide who can assist. While the support vehicle can help if needed, safe completion depends mostly on your skill. In summary: prior multi-day riding experience is strongly advised. Those who arrive well-prepared usually find the trip tough but incredibly rewarding.