Forget paved roads and traffic lights. Buckle up for an adventure that's raw, wild, and takes you to the edge of the world - an Upper Mustang bike tour.
Mustang isn't just another Himalayan destination. It's a forbidden kingdom that was closed to foreigners for decades. Now, with a special permit and a whole lot of grit, you can explore its ancient monasteries, windswept valleys, and dramatic gorges on two wheels.
This isn't your weekend jaunt around the park. Mustang's trails are rough, dusty, and climb high above sea level. You'll be battling thin air, scorching sun, and maybe even a yak or two on the road. But conquer those challenges, and you'll be rewarded with views that will knock your socks off (and maybe your breath away).
Mustang is more than just mountains and dust. It's a living, breathing culture steeped in Tibetan traditions. As you bike through remote villages, you'll be greeted by friendly locals, their faces weathered by the harsh climate but their smiles warm and genuine. Step into a monastery, spin a prayer wheel and soak in the ancient chants that fill the air.
Tips for Your Mustang Bike Odyssey
- Prepare for the altitude: Mustang sits high above sea level, so acclimatization is key. Give yourself enough time to adjust before hitting the trails.
- Pack smart: Think layers, sun protection, and sturdy gear. You'll need to be self-sufficient on the road.
- Embrace the unexpected: Mustang is unpredictable. Be prepared for anything, from weather changes to flat tires.
- Go with a guide: A local guide will not only navigate the trails but also share their knowledge of the culture and history.
An Upper Mustang bike tour is not for everyone. It's a physical and mental challenge that demands respect and preparation. But for those who answer the call, it's an adventure unlike any other. It's a journey that will push your limits, leave you breathless, and change you forever.
P.S. Don't forget your camera! You'll be capturing memories that will last a lifetime.
Bonus: If you're feeling extra adventurous, check out the Mustang Tiji Festival, held in May. It's a vibrant celebration of Tibetan culture, complete with colorful costumes, traditional dances, and yak racing.
Kingdom of Lo, Upper region of Mustang is a remote and isolated region of the Nepalese Himalayas.Trekking to Upper Mustang was a restricted demilitarized area until 1992 which makes it one of the most preserved places in the world.
It highly preserves the Tibetan culture and unspoiled nature.Furthermore, Upper Mustang is not very well known to tourists, therefore, will have lesser trekkers.The starting point of the upper Mustang trek is the district headquarters of Mustang, Jomsom reachable by a scenic flight.Similarly, also accessible by walk from Ghorepani to Jomsom trekking route.
Experience some of the most significant and most beautiful Tibetan Buddhism gompas in Nepal in Lo Manthang.Upper Mustang Trek HighlightsHere are the highlights of the Buddhist Kingdom, Lo Manthang trekking to Upper Mustang in Nepal.Explore the historical Royal Palace of king Loat Lo Manthang.Walk without worrying about the rain as the upper Mustang region lies in the rain shadow area of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.Get a chance to see a glimpse of Tibetan Buddhist influence, culture and traditions of the local people in Nepal.Colourful barren hills, beautiful view of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, and swinging barley fields etc.Upper Mustang Trek ItineraryDAYSITINERARYALTITUDETIMEDay 01Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara900 m6 hrsDay 02Fly to Jomsom & trek to Kagbeni2,810 m4 hrsDay 03Kagbeni to Chele3,050 m6 hrsDay 04Chele to Syanbochen3,475 m7 hrsDay 05Syanbochen to Charang3,560 m7 hrsDay 06Charang to Lo Manthang3,770 m5 hrsDay 07Acclimatization Day at Lo Manthang3,770 m6 hrsDay 08Lo Manthang to Drakmar3,800 m7 hrsDay 09Drakmar to Ghiling3,860 m6 hrsDay 10Ghiling to Chuksang3,050 m6 hrsDay 11Chuksang to Jomsom2,700 m6 hrsDay 12Fly back to Pokhara900 m30 minutesDay 13Drive back to Kathmandu1,400 m6 hrsNote: You can customize your own itinerary according to your physical fitness, level of interest & walking habit.
My suggestion would be if you have children & old aged people on your group with no experience of walking 6/7 hours a day add 1/2 days extra to make it more comfortable or hire a jeep on some places to avoid feeling difficult.Extend OptionsThe trek can be possible to extend if you have many holidays and want to visit other places too.From Kagbeni after ending Upper Mustang, you can either choose to do Annapurna Sanctuary or Annapurna Circuit both.Upper Mustang trek with Tiji FestivalTiji festival of the upper Mustang is a fascinating annual three-day festival.
If longer is needed, an additional $50 per day is charged.No, any other permits require, for instance, TIMS card for Upper Mustang as the RAP is sufficient.Please keep in mind that Individual trekkers cannot obtain the restricted area permit for Upper Mustang themselves.
After the completion of roadways in the region, Upper Mustang is a popular jeep tour destination nowadays.In fact, Upper Mustang trek is the only trek in Nepal which can also be assessable by drives.Upper Mustang Jeep tour saves your hiking days but provides more time to visit and explore around.
