17 Days Challenging

Mustang cycling 17 days

Why do we choose private transport instead of flights for the Mustang trek? We prefer private vehicles as roads have improved, making travel reliable and comfortable. Mountain fli...

Mustang cycling 17 days

Difficulty
Challenging
Max Elevation
4065
Duration
17
Best Time
Pokhara - Pokhara
Accommodation
Tea Houses / lodges
Group Size
2-15

Why do we choose private transport instead of flights for the Mustang trek?

We prefer private vehicles as roads have improved, making travel reliable and comfortable. Mountain flights are often delayed due to weather, while private transport is more dependable, flexible, and affordable, ensuring a smoother experience for guests.

Upper Mustang, known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” is a unique region where Tibetan-influenced culture remains well preserved. Located in Nepal’s dry, high-altitude area, it features dramatic landscapes, ancient monasteries, cave homes, and the historic walled city of Lo Manthang, the royal capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang. The kingdom was ruled by the King of Mustang for centuries, maintaining its independence and culture until it became part of Nepal in the 18th century. Each village has its own palace, built for local rulers under the king, serving as both a residence and ceremonial centre. Buddhism has long shaped life here, with mani walls, chortens, and monasteries reflecting centuries of practice. Lo Gekar and Namgyal Gompa in Lo Manthang are among the oldest and most important monasteries in the region, and Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) is believed to have introduced Buddhism and blessed many sacred sites.

Upper Mustang is also famous for its many caves carved into cliffs and hillsides, used for both religious and practical purposes. Some served as meditation retreats for monks and yogis, while others were burial sites, storage spaces, or shelters for travellers and herders, forming an important part of the region’s spiritual heritage. The trek passes attractive villages such as Chhoser, Ghemi, Charang, and Dhakmar, each with traditional houses, monasteries, and local markets. The region is known for its vibrant festivals, including Tiji, a three-day ritual festival celebrating the victory of good over evil, along with other local ceremonies reflecting the valley’s spiritual traditions. Unlike many other parts of Nepal, Upper Mustang can be visited during the summer monsoon, offering clear skies and stunning views. The trek is easier than the full Mustang Circuit and is suitable for travellers seeking a cultural and spiritual experience with moderate walking, short cave hikes, horse riding in villages, and excellent opportunities for photography.

Trip Highlight

  • Lo Manthang: Ancient walled city of the forbidden kingdom
  • Sky Caves: Mysterious cliffside caves with ancient history
  • Tiji Festival: Colorful Buddhist festival of peace
  • Muktinath Temple: Sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists
  • Unique Landscapes: Arid valleys, deep gorges, Himalayan views
  • Tibetan Culture: Monasteries, prayer flags, traditional villages

Itinerary

  • D1

    Arrive Kathmandu (1350m). Transfer to the hotel.

    Your happy holiday starts in Kathmandu. You will have time to freshen up before briefing with guide in the late afternoon. According to the time, you can walk/drive to Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) and from here watch your first Nepali sunset over the Kathmandu Valley, from the oldest stupas. This is one of the most Important world heritage sites of Nepal and an important center for Buddhism in Nepal.

    Accommodation: Hotel. Meals included: morning
    Transfer: 20 M drive hotel.

  • D2

    Kathmandu - Pokhara (860 m)

    Drive early from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a peaceful lakeside city with views of the Annapurna range. It's a great place to relax and prepare for your trek. The region is home to Magars, Gurungs and Thakalis - known for their farming, bravery as Gurkhas, and business skills. After arrival, you may have time to enjoy a boat ride on the lake, explore shops with Nepali and Tibetan items or relax in one of the many cafés. Trekking gear is also easy to find in local stores.

    Accommodation: Hotel. Meals included: morning noon.
    Transport : 6 hours drive (Pokhara).

  • D3

    Pokhara - Jomsom (2700 m) - Kagbeni (3710 m)

    After breakfast your bike and luggage will be transferred to Pokhara’s airport for a short, scenic 25-minute flight to Jomsom. On arrival, the crew will help set up the bikes before starting the first ride along the Kali Gandaki River towards Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. In Kagbeni, you can explore its narrow alleyways and even stop at the famous Yak Donald’s for a yak burger and local apple cider.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Transport : 25 minutes flight (Jhomsom).
    Elevation Gain: 250.Cycling distance:10 KM.

  • D4

    Kagbeni - Muktinath (3710m)

    After breakfast, you will begin the uphill ride to Muktinath. With the altitude and steep climbs, the journey may take up to three hours, but the ride offers incredible views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. On arrival, you’ll have time for a short hike to visit the famous Hindu temple at Muktinath.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 1100 m. Elevation loss: 80 m. (2 option upper one is 21km)10 km.

  • D5

    Muktinath - Samar (3490m)

    After breakfast, the real adventure starts today with an early start to enjoy the best views. After leaving Muktinath, you’ll pass through a village before climbing to the Gyu La Pass at 4,066 m. From the top, a thrilling 1,200 m descent on technical single track takes you to Chhusang, where you’ll cross the Kali Gandaki and begin one of the toughest climbs of the trip to reach Samar. Now in Upper Mustang, the terrain is remote, and the accommodation becomes more basic, but the scenery is truly beautiful.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 1300 M. Elevation loss: 1200 m. 7/8 hours biking 29 km.

  • D6

    Samar - Ghami (3560m)

    Day six takes you over five high passes above 3,800 m: Bhena La, Yamdo La, Syanboch La, Nya La, and Ghami La. The trail is challenging but less steep than the climb to Samar, with a mix of uphills and fast downhill sections. After a lunch stop in Ghiling, it’s about two more hours to Ghami, with a 5 km climb followed by a long descent to the teahouse.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 1120 M. Elevation loss: 920 m. Biking : 28 km.

  • D7

    Ghami - Lo manthang (3840m)

    Today’s ride is more than 50% single track, crossing two high passes: Chogo La (4,280 m, the highest of the trip) and Mui La (4,170 m). From the teahouse, you’ll ride or hike along trekking trails to Dhakmar, then climb towards Ghargumba where the single track begins. Some rocky sections may require pushing, but they soon give way to a flowy ride all the way to Lo Manthang. After checking into the teahouse, you’ll have time to explore the ancient walled city, visit the King’s Palace, and enjoy the colorful village with its rich history and stunning views.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 1050M. Elevation loss: 820 m. Biking 21 km.

  • D8

    Lo mangthang - Chusar cave - Lomangthang

    After five days of riding, today’s ride is optional. You can cycle to Kamaling, a village above Lo Manthang near the Chinese border, perfect for scenic photos. The ride also includes a visit to Garphu to see ancient cave dwellings and a monastery once home to Tibetan residents. On a clear day, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Nilgiri and the Annapurna Mountains while passing through villages that feel untouched by time.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 650 m. Elevation loss: 620 m. 4/5 hours biking 21 km.

  • D9

    Lo mangthang - Yara

    The day starts with a climb to Lo Pass (4,000 m) for beautiful views of Lo Manthang, followed by a loose, steep, and fun descent to Dhee village at 3,400 m. From there, you’ll follow the riverbed and climbs to reach Yara, your overnight stop. Yara is a small village with limited teahouses, but if you have energy, you can take an optional 4 km ride up to Ghara village, all above 3,500 m.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 720 m. Elevation loss: 790 m. 4/5 hours biking 17 km.

  • D10

    Yara - Tange

    The day begins with a short climb and rolling trails leading to Dhey Khola at 3,400 m, with a steep, loose-rock descent at the end. After crossing the river, you’ll stop for lunch before riding or hike-a-biking up to a 3,900 m pass. From there, enjoy an exciting descent into Tange village, finishing with a fast and fun ride through a canyon on loose terrain.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 850 m. Elevation loss: 1100 m. 18 km.

  • D11

    Tange - Chusang

    Starting straight from the hotel, you’ll ride 3 km and hike-a-bike 5 km to Paa Pass at 4,180 m. The climb is tough, but the ridge offers beautiful views. From there, enjoy a thrilling descent from 4,200 m down to 2,900 m, with fast, flowy trails and a rocky, loose final section leading to Chusang village - one of the most exciting days of the trip!

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 1200 m. Elevation loss: 1500 m. 6/7 hours biking 25 km.

  • D12

    Chusang - Jhomsom via Lupra valley

    Today you’ll leave Upper Mustang and head back into Lower Mustang along the Annapurna Circuit. From Chhuksang, the trails go up and down to Kagbeni, where you’ll take a shuttle bus to Muktinath. From there, you’ll climb to Lupra Pass at 4,100 m, then enjoy an amazing 8 km descent dropping over 1,000 m, eventually meeting the Kali Gandaki and the trails from the first day, returning to Jomsom for the evening.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 340 m. Elevation loss: 1280 m. 5 hours biking 22km.

  • D13

    Jhomsom - pokhara

    After days of adventure on your mountain bike, today is all about rest and comfort. You’ll leave Kalopani behind and take a jeep to Pokhara - no more pedalling, just a relaxing drive through scenic valleys and rolling hills. Pokhara is one of Nepal’s most popular and beloved cities, known for its tranquil lakes, beautiful views of the Annapurna range, and easy-going vibe. It’s the perfect place to unwind, reflect on your journey and enjoy the well-earned peace at the end of an unforgettable trip.

    Accommodation: Hotel. Meals included: morning noon.
    Transport: 5/6 hours  jeep /bus (Pokhara) 90km.

  • D14

    Pokhara - Kathmandu

    Once breakfast is finished, you will drive back to Kathmandu. Approximately six or seven hours are needed to finish this picturesque drive along the Prithvi Highway.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.

  • D15

    Kathmandu - Souvenirs day, sightseeing day or free day.

    Among the option, if you are heading for sightseeing, this day-day cultural tour will offer you a well-rounded experience of Kathmandu's history, spirituality and art while being guided by an expert, certified who can enrich your understanding of the city's unique heritage.

    here's a suggested itinerary and price that balances history, culture and local experiences. Maximum visited only three sites in day.

    -       Swayambunath

    -       Bhaktapur

    -       Boudhanath

    -       Patan Darbar square

    -       Kathmandu Darbar square

     In this price, an expert and certified cultural and tour guide a vehicle reserved and a professional driver for whole during the sightseeing.

    2-3 pp 70€.  4-6 pp 50€.  7-10 pp 35€.  11-15+ 30€.

  • D16

    Back to the native land

    According to your flight schedule the grand departure. We will come to drive you to the airport.

Information

    • Gears and Equipment Recommended for Trekking in Nepal

FAQs

1Where is Upper Mustang located?
Upper Mustang lies in north-western Nepal, close to the Tibetan border, beyond the Annapurna region. Known as the former Kingdom of Lo, it features dramatic desert landscapes, ancient caves, monasteries, and traditional Tibetan-influenced villages.
2Is the Upper Mustang Cycling Tour difficult?
The tour is moderate to challenging due to high altitude, rough terrain, and long riding days. It is suitable for cyclists with good fitness and some off-road cycling experience, but the pace is manageable with proper acclimatisation.
3What type of terrain will I cycle on?
Cycling is mostly on dirt roads, gravel tracks, and rocky trails, with some uphill climbs and downhill sections. The route passes through river valleys, high passes, and wide open plateaus.
4Is the cycling tour safe?
Yes, when properly organised. The tour includes experienced guides, support staff, and backup vehicles if needed. Gradual altitude gain and rest days help ensure safety and comfort.
5Can the cycling tour be combined with other trips?
Yes. The tour can be combined with Kathmandu or Pokhara sightseeing, short treks, or cultural tours, creating a complete adventure and cultural experience in Nepal.
6What makes Mustang different from other trekking regions in Nepal?
Mustang offers a rare blend of Tibetan Buddhist culture, unique desert landscapes and historical isolation. Unlike the green hills of Everest or Annapurna, Mustang feels like stepping into another world - quiet, mystical and rich in heritage.
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Mingmar S. Sherpa
Mingmar S. Sherpa
Managing Director
Lhakpa Sherpa
Lhakpa Sherpa
Co Director & Guide
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