Upper Mustang Cycle Tour Overview
Upper Mustang cycle Tour is quite an exceptional route for cycling at the Upper Mustang of Nepal-one of the remotest and stunning landscapes in the Himalayas, offering an unmatched density of ancient Tibetan Buddhist heritage, which was still untouched even for many centuries. The Upper Mustang Cycle tour will finally take bikers through deep gorges, striking rock formations, and vast barren landscapes that make the whole expedition an unforgettable adventure. While biking, they will be rewarded with great views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges, as well as the chance to see very ancient monasteries and caves that hold much historical and spiritual significance.
Upper Mustang cycling requires an awful lot of preparation to make the expedition smooth and enjoyable. Given the hard terrain and remoteness of the region, carrying spare parts and tools and a sufficient supply of water and snacks is very essential. The high-altitude environment and rugged trails demand physical endurance and proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. Further, during a cycle tour in Mustang, one must respect local culture and tradition because it is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhist culture. Interaction with locals with politeness and respect towards cultural etiquette can enhance the experience and give better insight to their lifestyle.
As Upper Mustang falls within the restricted area, there are some rules and regulations followed by the tourists, which are specified by the government of Nepal. It calls for a special permit, and the cyclist has to be aware of not taking photos or disturbing ancient artifacts, sites of religious nature, and the people without proper permission. These will hopefully preserve not only the rich cultural heritage but also allow responsible tourism in this region. Respectful and well-prepared, cyclists can have an exciting adventure through one of Nepal’s most enchanting and historically relevant landscapes.
The ideal season for visiting Upper Mustang Cycle Tour
Trekking to the Upper Mustang is appropriate in every season but the best time allows you best experience till the end. Generally, the different season will offer you with different topography, wildlife, and encounters.
Autum Season (September-November)
The autum months are the time of the harvesting season with the hours of daylight and the hours of night are the same. The temperatures are mild, the weather is relatively unchanged, the clear skies provide astonishing mountain views, and the day time walking temperature are also the most pleasant overall. However, the high mountains are still cold and lower elevations are warm. Along the trail, you will witness yellow, orange, red, and brown leaves on the trees.
Spring Season (March- May)
It is the pre- monsoon period when nature regenerates its lost beauty. You can explore a wide variety of flowers blooming making colorful hills such as magnolia, Nepalese national flower Rhododendron and other variety of wildflowers in various part of the country. Spring is the advantageous season to tackle treks with high passes. The temperature of surrounding
begins to rise allowing stronger sunlight and the days grow longer.
Travel Insurance for a Safe on Upper Mustang Cycle Trek
Any trek in Nepal, including the Upper Mustang cycle Trek, needs travel insurance. The trek includes high-altitude trekking, which may be physically challenging and dangerous. Travel insurance can cover you financially in the event of an accident, a medical emergency, a flight cancellation or delay, or lost or stolen luggage. When buying travel insurance for the Upper Mustang cycle trek, ensure that it covers high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation, as these can be expensive without insurance. Depending on your plan, you can also obtain additional coverage of activities like hiking, mountaineering, and adventure sports.
Guide and Porters for the safety on Upper Mustang cycle Trek
It’s always suggested to trek with a knowledgeable, experienced, licensed guide or join a trekking agency to assure safety and utilize your time in a best way. Moreover, according to Nepal tourism board all the trekkers are required to gain services of licensed trekking guide and to acquire (TIMS Cards) through authorized trekking agencies with the government of Nepal.
Significantly, Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours Pvt. Ltd. is a reliable and reputable company registered with the government of Nepal that can provide you helpful, friendly, English-speaking, technically competent, government-authorized, license holding guide and porter with their insurance. As they are highly experienced trekking guide prompt in safety performance and always carry essential safety equipment’s, first aid kids and gear.
Altitude Sickness during the trek
Generally, altitude sickness occurs when you travel to a high altitude too quickly. Headache, nausea, tiredness, etc are the symptoms that occur when your body tries to adjust to the lower air pressure and lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. When it comes to this illness, one should be proactive and notify the guide as soon as possible.
Preventing Altitude Sickness (AMS):
- Rest Well: Ensure that you rest well before starting your trek.
- Stay Hydrated: Continue drinking plenty of water during the journey.
- Balanced Nutrition: Maintain the balance of salt and sugar through proper eating habits and not skipping meals.
- Keep Warm: Layer up to remain warm without profuse sweating.
- Controlled Breathing: Breathe deeply and steadily from your diaphragm to maximize lung capacity. Maintain a comfortable walking speed that will allow for controlled breathing. Nasal breathing avoids drying your throat—wearing a muff or scarf in high altitudes might be of use.
Pace Yourself: It’s not a competition. Pace yourself with a maintainable and Server consistent pace instead of exhausting yourself too early and taking many rest stops. Stop and admire the stunning views
Fitness/Experience on trekking
Physical fitness level, health, and medical required for upper mustang trekking. The trekking trail of upper mustang cycle tour is a moderately difficult and adventurous tour, requiring good physical fitness and experience in handling off- road cycling. So, this trek is not recommended for trekkers who are suffering from chronic ailments or have heart or lung diseases. It is better to avoid this trip.
Healthy Meals at Upper Mustang
The accommodation in the mountains and remote villages are generally modest and basic. The room, shower and rest rooms are available in a twin- shared basis. The mountain teahouse provides rooms with just a bed, pillow, and blankets but the view is spectacular from the rooms. The standard lodge has two single bedrooms with mattresses, pillow, warm blankets, attached bathrooms and hot water. Teashops and lodges usually provide plentiful and delicious foods which suits the preferences of various trekkers such as Nepali foods, Indian, Italian, Tibetan and Continental food.
Upper Mustang Cycle Tour Highlights
- Cycling mountain trip
- Scenic mountain flight from Pokhara to Jomsom
- Close up panoramic mountain vibes
- Visit ancient monasteries, caves, and trail covered with forest by cycling
- Experience natural hot springs bath at Tatopani
- Witness yaks, mountain goats, and horse caravan
- Upper Mustang, the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” in Nepal‘s rain-shadow area, shares much in common with the Tibetan Plateau. Main attractions of this trip include Lo Manthang (3,840m), the walled capital with ancient monasteries; Sky Caves of Mustang (3,900m+); and Dhakmar‘s red cliffs (3,820m).
- The villages it goes around include Kagbeni at 2,804 meters, Chele at 3,050 meters, and Ghami at 3,520 meters, offering very spectacular views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri.
- It is famous for the Tiji Festival, ancient cave monasteries such as Luri Gompa at 3,900m, and sacred Shaligram fossils from the Kali Gandaki River.
- Thukpa or noodle soup, dishes containing yak meat, butter tea, tsampa or barley flour porridge, and the apples and apple brandy of Mustang are some of the local delicacies. Upper Mustang proffers a rare combination of adventure, culture, and history-a combination that can’t be resisted.
Important Notes
Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours Pvt. Ltd. has years of expertise in the field of Himalayan trekking and can curate unforgettable experiences for adventurers like you. In order for trekkers to have a really comfortable and pleasant Everest Base Camp Trek, we are offering different optional services as per your need.
Optional Add-Ons Available:
✅ Porter Service – USD $
Lighten your load and trek with ease! Our experienced porters can take up to 25 kg of luggage, which can be shared between two trekkers. Let the beauty of the landscape soak into you instead, without heavy gear.
✅ Kathmandu to Lukla Helicopter Flight – USD $
Avoid the pain of regular flights and start your adventure with a helicopter ride from Kathmandu to Lukla. This option offers breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas while saving you time.
✅ Lukla to Kathmandu Helicopter Flight – USD $
Complete your trekking in style with a helicopter ride from Lukla back to Kathmandu. Ensuring a smooth return in comfort and with spectacular aerial views of the Everest Region, without risk of possible flight delays.
✅ Upgraded Accommodation – USD $
Upgrade your trekking experience with upgraded lodges featuring attached bathrooms at key locations: Phakding (1 night), Namche (3 nights), Tyangboche (1 night), Dingboche (2 nights), and Lukla (1 night). Enjoy added comfort after long days on the trail.
✅ Extra Night in Kathmandu – USD $/night
Arriving early or staying longer? Add extra nights at our partnered 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, including breakfast, to relax before or after your trek.
How to Customize Your EBC Trek:
- Choose Your Trek Departure Date.
- Mention the Number of Travelers.
- Click on ‘Book Now’ or ‘Add to Cart.’
- Choose Your Required Add-on Options.
- Complete Your Booking and Payment
Required Experience:
This trek is ideal for active trekkers who can hike 6 to 7 hours a day carrying a light daypack. On certain days, the trekking is longer and the altitude increases the difficulty level of trekking. The trails are generally good, but there could be boulder and uneven patches in between.
Itinerary and Schedule: We try to follow the itinerary planned; yet trekking in distant mountain regions means uncertainty. Factors such as weather and trekkers’ well-being may make readjustments necessary. Your guide and Sherpa crew will try to stick to the trail as designed but flexibility is a must. Your safety is our topmost priority and also to get you back to Kathmandu before your scheduled departure.
What will the temperature be like during trek?
Weather conditions can vary significantly depending on the season and can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. If your trek takes you above 3,000m, you should be prepared for temperatures ranging from -10°C to 25°C in a single day. It’s essential to have proper protection against sun exposure and strong winds. For helpful weather insights, refer to reliable source. Feel free to reach out to us for a recommended packing list tailored to your trekking itinerary.
How much money should be we bring?
You’ll require Nepali Rupees for any expenditure not covered by your package itinerary. Such costs might include bottled water, night hot shower, extra snacks, extra hot drinks, repairing or replacing equipment, battery charging, souvenirs, and tips. In case you want to shop, Thamel is an excellent place to shop on your last day. You are welcome to come to our office prior to your trek for individual counsel and assistance with money exchange.
Electricity, telephone, and internet access are available at most lodges and guesthouses along the Upper Mustang trekking, but with some additional charges. While the trek itself does not have widespread access to electricity, many lodges rely on solar power or generators to provide energy. You can recharge your devices like cameras, mobiles, and laptops at these places, although it usually comes at an extra cost. If you need to make phone calls or access the internet, some accommodations offer limited telephone and Wi-Fi services. You can obtain an internet password from the lodge, but keep in mind that these services typically incur additional fees.
Fill your life with adventures, not things. Have stories to tell, not stuff to show. Hurry up! Adventure is waiting for you and mountains are calling you.
This trip is fully customization. Importantly, this trip is available on both a fixed departure and a private group basis. Moreover, we can also customize the trip as per your needs, please contact us at Whatsapp (+977-9843770916) or email us at [email protected]. Let us know how we can help you, and we will do our best to give you the best customer service you’ll get anywhere else.
Furthermore, Nepal holiday treks and tours Pvt. Ltd. is a reputable and reliable company serving relentlessly in the field of tourism to fulfill the dreams of diverse adventure seekers around the globe into reality where they can feel most alive. So, we recommend you to reserve seat for yourself by booking with us right away for a wonderful and unforgettable trip experience.
Upper Mustang Cycle Tour Itinerary
Expand allDay 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our representative greets you at the airport and transfers you to your hotel. This is your rest day from the journey so that you might get familiarized with this bustling city. Local areas can be explored, try some local dishes, or do whatever you may like.
Day 2: Rest Day in Kathmandu and Trek Preparation
Free day in Kathmandu to rest and prepare for the adventure. You will meet your guide, check your gear, and make sure all the permits are in place. If time allows, you can visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the city, which include Swayambhunath, a.k.a. the Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath, or Boudhanath Stupa.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Beni
Soon after breakfast, you will drive long through the scenic surroundings to Beni, the starting point of your cycling trip. The drive takes you on a serpentine road through some beautiful hills, rivers, and villages. Reach Beni and check into a local guest house to prepare yourself for the ride.
Day 4: Cycling from Beni to Ghasa via Tatopani ( 1,180m) / ( 42 km) / ( 4 - 6 hrs)
Begin the cycling day on the trail via Ghasa, first through the famous town of Tatopani with natural hot springs. The trail opens up for striking views down Kali Gandaki Gorge-the deepest gorge in the world, riding past forested trails with small villages dotting the land, till one reaches Ghasa. Night.
Day 5: Cycling to Jomsom from Ghasa
Today you will ride the bike on the beautiful waterfalls and typical Thakali villages. It starts getting drier and more desert-like as you ascend to Jomsom. Jomsom is a windy town – a place of marvelous views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri peaks.
Day 6: Jomsom - Chele (3624m, 7 hours) by cycling
You will be taken further to Chele, cross the Kali Gandaki River, and then via Kagbeni-an entrance to restricted Upper Mustang. It’s going to be quite an uphill ride today as the land turns to be more rugged and gives breathtaking views of the dry yet enchanting landscape of Mustang.
Day 7: Ride from Chele to Syangboche (3800m, 7-8 hrs)
Today’s ride is characterized by narrow trails and steep ascents. You will be rewarded with breathtaking desert-like Mustang scenery, and even ancient cave dwellings begin to appear as you gain altitude. In the evening, you will arrive in Syangboche after a whole day of cycling and stay overnight in a typical teahouse.
Day 8: Syangboche - Ghami (3520m, 6-7 hours) Cycling
This section of the ride keeps you running on high-altitude terrain, making its way through some beautiful Buddhist chortens and ancient Mani walls. Ghami is one of the big villages in Mustang and is famous for its Tibetan culture and the magnificence of the mountain peaks.
Day 9: Ghami - Charang (3560m) via Ghar Gompa (3950m, 7 hours)
Today’s ride goes to Ghar Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in the region, and further on to Charang. The route has ups and downs but brilliant views of the Mustang Valley. Charang has a big monastery and gives one an insight into the rich Tibetan culture of the area.
Day 10: Cycling from Charang to Lo-Manthang (3810m, 5 hours)
You depart for the walled city, Lo-Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang. There are plenty of breathtaking landscapes, as well as ancient caves filling the route. Later in the afternoon, explore this medieval town, which includes historic monasteries, palaces, and primitive Tibetan culture.
Day 11: Rest Day at Lo-Manthang / Hike to Choser Cave / Explore by Cycle
Rest and exploration in Lo-Manthang. Today you might enjoy a short cycling trip to Choser Cave, an ancient cave monastery cut into the cliffs, a visit to the royal palace, and monasteries. This is a fine opportunity to learn about the culture and lifestyle of the people.
Day 12: Lo-Manthang cycling to Yara: (3650m, 6-7hrs)
Leaving Lo-Manthang, you’ll bike towards Yara on remote trails with rugged topography. A number of unusual rock formations dot this area, with fantastic views of the Mustang landscape.
Day 13: Yara - Tangye (3240m, 4-5 hours, biking)
The biking day today includes dry riverbeds and steep trails up to Tangye Village, one of the scenic villages. This village is nestled among barren hills, giving it a different feel altogether.
Day 14: Ride from Tangye to Tetang/Chhuksang (2980m, 6-7 hours)
This part of the journey includes high passes and a drop down into the valley of Tetang. Dramatic landscapes and panoramic views make this one of the most fantastic parts of the ride.
Day 15: Cycle from Tetang/Chhuksang to Marpha (2810m, 6 hours)
Continuing down, you will reach the beautiful village of Marpha with its orchards of apples and other products made out of apples. The town has a nice, Tibetan-style charm with whitewashed houses and narrow stone-paved streets.
Day 16: Cycling Marpha to Tatopani
Today’s ride takes you back to Tatopani, a place where you will be able to relax and take some time in the natural hot springs. It will help loosen the muscles after many days of active cycling.
Day 17: Tatopani - Beni Cycling
Continuing downhill, ride back to Beni, which completes your cycling loop in the Mustang region. The trail is a mix of rough and paved roads, which means your decent will be quite fun and thrilling.
Day 18: Drive from Beni to Kathmandu by Local Bus
Take an early morning breakfast and then head for Kathmandu on a long drive by bus. Views of hills, rivers, and traditional villages make the journey a picturesque one. You will arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon. Spend the remaining part of the day at leisure.
Day 19: Rest Day at Kathmandu
Free day in Kathmandu for cultural sightseeing, last-minute shopping, or rest. You may visit any cultural site you are interested in, shop souvenirs, or try the local cuisine.
Day 20: Final Departure
It is time to say adieu to your great Upper Mustang Cycling Adventure. You will be driven to the airport from where you will board your flight back to home, collecting lifelong memories of this once-in-a-lifetime journey.
If the above Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences and specifications.
Plan My TripUpper Mustang Cycle Tour Cost Includes
✅Special permits for Upper Mustang and ACAP permit during the trek.
✅4 Night tourist standard hotel in Kathmandu B/B Plan.
✅Airport pickup and Drop by private vehicle.
✅1 Experienced & English speaking License holder Trekking guide.
✅ Insurance, daily wages, equipment, meals and accommodation for guide and porters.
✅Kathmandu to Beni to Kathmandu By Local bus.
✅When you are in Kathmandu again PCR Test Report for immigration.
✅Accommodation in selected tea houses during the trek.
✅3 meal a Day (lunch, dinner and breakfast with 3 cup of tea or coffee during the trek) for guests
✅Guide by cycle During The trek.
✅Room is provided for you your guide 2 in one room sepret bed and bathroom is sharing.
✅All taxes and other applicable fees & charges.
Upper Mustang Cycle Tour Cost Excludes
❌ Fees of visa for Nepal.
❌ International Airfare to get in and out of Nepal.
❌ Expenses for beverages, drinking water, desserts, extra porters, personal insurance, shower, laundry or any other services which are not mentioned by the company.
❌ Cost for spending extra nights in a certain destination in your will.
❌ Travel Insurance and rescue charges.
❌ Accommodation in Kathmandu and pokhara.
❌ Lunch and dinner in Pokhara and Kathmandu
❌ Porter service during the trek.
❌ Sleeping bag and down jacket and trekking pole.
❌ Tips which may be provided by you to the guides, porters or anyone during the trip.
Upcoming Departures
Customer Reviews
Write a ReviewUpper Mustang Cycle Tour FAQs
Why am I going to trek with Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours?
Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours offers experienced guides, excellent customer service, and local knowledge that can make your trek safe, enjoyable, and well-organized.
What is the highest altitude on the Upper Mustang Trek?
The highest on the Upper Mustang trek is 4,200 m (13,780 feet) at Chogo La Pass. Lo Manthang, the main destination, sits at 3,840 meters or 12,600 feet.
At what altitude is there a risk of altitude sickness?
Symptoms of altitude sickness can begin above 2,500 meters or 8,200 feet.
The risk is above 3,500 meters 11,500 feet, especially with fast ascent.
What are the other documents that I need to bring along for trekking?
You will be requiring a valid passport with six-month validity, a Nepal visa available on arrival or online, and permits such as the Upper Mustang Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card.
When is the best season to trek the Upper Mustang Trek?
The best seasons are Spring – March-May and Autumn – September-November when the weather is clear and the trails are dry.
What kind of weather does one experience on the Upper Mustang Trek?
Lower altitudes (1,000-2,000 m): 15°C-25°C daytime, 5°C-10°C nighttime. Higher altitudes (3, 000 m-5, 000 m): 0° to -10°, Coldest nights at below freezing mark.
What is the temperature rating of the sleeping bag that you will provide for trekking?
The provided sleeping bags operate for -10°C to -15°C, which should suffice for high altitude conditions.
Do I need a visa to enter Nepal?
Yes, you can get a visa on arrival at the airport or apply online prior to your trip.
Upper Mustang Cycle Tour Equipment Lists
Clothing:
- Thermal base layers
- Trekking shirts (quick-dry)
- Fleece jacket and down jacket
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Trekking trousers
- Gloves (inner and outer)
- Warm hat and sun hat
- Trekking socks
- -20 Sleeping bags
Footwear:
- Sturdy trekking boots
- Camp shoes/sandals
- Gaiters (optional)
Accessories:
- Trekking poles
- Sleeping bag (-15°C)
- Backpack (50-60L) and daypack (20-30L)
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles and purification tablets