Mustang Cycling Tour

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative of Monkvana | Himalayan Monks Sp. z o.o., operating through its local partner, Jagdamba Holidays. Our representative will be waiting with an official Monkvana sign and a traditional marigold garland to welcome you to Nepal.

You will then be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel. For late-night arrivals, transportation will be arranged according to your arrival time.

Your representative will also provide information about the tour briefing and group meeting. During the briefing, we will review your travel plans and included services and introduce you to your trekking or tour guide.

Before the journey begins, all participants will complete the required travel and liability forms. Any outstanding tour balance should also be settled during the meeting.

After breakfast in Kathmandu, depart at around 7:00 AM for Pokhara (822 m / 2,697 ft) by deluxe tourist bus, the standard travel option for this journey. The approximately 200-kilometre drive takes around 6–7 hours, travelling through central Nepal and passing terraced hills, river valleys, and rural settlements. Much of the route follows the Trishuli River, providing scenic countryside views as you make your way towards Pokhara.

Upon arrival in Pokhara (822 m / 2,697 ft), transfer to Lakeside and check in at Hotel Silver Oaks Inn. Accommodation is provided on a twin-sharing basis with a private bathroom and breakfast included. Pokhara marks the beginning of your Mardi Himal Trek Nepal journey. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, either relaxing at the hotel or exploring Phewa Lake by boat.

If you prefer to travel more quickly, an optional domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara is available at an additional cost of USD 165 per person, including private airport transfers in both Kathmandu and Pokhara. The flight considerably reduces travel time and provides aerial views of the surrounding hills and river valleys, offering a convenient alternative to the road journey.

After breakfast in Pokhara, take a scenic morning flight to Jomsom (2,720 m / 8,924 ft). The flight takes approximately 20 minutes, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna Range and Dhaulagiri Range. Upon arrival near the Kali Gandaki River, meet your cycling team, who will assist with the necessary arrangements before you begin the day’s ride.

The cycling route from Jomsom to Kagbeni (2,800 m / 9,186 ft) covers approximately 10 kilometres, with around 200 metres of ascent and 100 metres of descent. Depending on your individual fitness and pace, you can enjoy the ride comfortably and take your time to appreciate the spectacular surroundings. The route follows the Kali Gandaki corridor, passing through open landscapes, cultivated farmland, and traditional Tibetan-influenced settlements typical of the Upper Mustang region. This relatively short stage provides a relaxed introduction to cycling at altitude, allowing you to enjoy the journey without feeling rushed.

Upon arrival in Kagbeni, check in at Jonika Hotel and relax after the day’s cycling. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. All meals are included. The remainder of the day is free to rest, explore the fascinating village, and enjoy the distinctive Mustang landscape and traditional Himalayan surroundings.

After breakfast at the lodge, begin cycling from Kagbeni to Chele (3,050 m), entering the Upper Mustang region and continuing through the spectacular Kali Gandaki Valley. The route follows the river corridor through an increasingly dry and rugged landscape, with traditional villages and impressive mountain scenery along the way.

The cycling stage covers approximately 17 km, with around 650 metres of ascent and 400 metres of descent. The cycling time to complete the journey depends on your individual fitness and pace, allowing you to enjoy the ride comfortably and take time to appreciate the changing landscape. The route includes open mountain tracks, rocky sections, small streams, and gradual climbs through the distinctive high-altitude terrain of Mustang. Along the way, pass through Chhusang (2,980 m), known for its ancient cave dwellings carved into dramatic red cliffs, before continuing towards Chele. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

Upon arrival in Chele (3,050 m), check in at Hotel Mustang Gate or a similar-standard teahouse and relax after the day’s cycling. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. All meals are included. The evening is free to rest, explore the traditional village, or enjoy the quiet mountain surroundings.

After breakfast at the lodge, begin cycling from Chele to Samar (3,600 m), continuing deeper into the dry and rugged landscapes of Upper Mustang. The route gradually climbs through the distinctive high-altitude terrain, passing traditional Tibetan-style villages, stone houses, prayer flags, and Buddhist cultural sites along the way.

The cycling stage covers approximately 6 km, with around 600 metres of ascent and 50 metres of descent. The cycling time to complete the journey depends on your individual fitness and pace, allowing you to enjoy the ride comfortably and take time to appreciate the changing landscape. Despite the short distance, the significant elevation gain makes this a demanding uphill stage. The route follows rocky mountain tracks and steep sections, with changing views across the barren valleys and surrounding Himalayan landscape. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

Upon arrival in Samar (3,600 m), check in at Himali Hotel and relax after the day’s cycling. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. All meals are included. The remainder of the day is free to rest, explore the traditional village, or enjoy the surrounding Upper Mustang landscape and Tibetan Buddhist atmosphere.

After breakfast at the lodge, begin cycling from Samar to Ghami (3,520 m), continuing through the dramatic high-altitude landscapes of Upper Mustang. The route climbs gradually through a series of mountain passes, reaching elevations of around 4,000 metres, while passing traditional villages, barren valleys, rocky slopes, and distinctive Tibetan Buddhist cultural sites along the way.

The cycling stage covers approximately 26 km, with around 1,200 metres of ascent and 1,250 metres of descent. The cycling time to complete the journey depends on your individual fitness and pace, allowing you to enjoy the ride comfortably and take time to appreciate the changing landscape. The route includes sustained climbs, rocky and uneven sections, several high passes, and long descents through the rugged Mustang terrain. The significant elevation changes make this one of the more demanding cycling stages of the journey, requiring a steady pace and regular breaks. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

Upon arrival in Ghami (3,520 m), check in at Hotel Lo Ghami and relax after the day’s cycling. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. All meals are included. The remainder of the day is free to rest or explore Ghami, with its traditional stone houses, Buddhist heritage, and surrounding Upper Mustang landscape.

After breakfast at the lodge, begin cycling from Ghami to Lo Manthang (3,840 m), passing through Tsarang (3,560 m) and continuing towards the Lho La Pass (3,950 m). The route leads through the dramatic landscapes of Upper Mustang, with barren valleys, rocky mountain slopes, traditional villages, stone houses, Buddhist monuments, and expansive views across the surrounding Himalayan terrain.

The cycling stage covers approximately 26 km, with around 950 metres of ascent and 650 metres of descent. The cycling time to complete the journey depends on your individual fitness and pace, allowing you to enjoy the ride comfortably and take time to appreciate the changing landscape. The route includes steady uphill sections, rocky mountain tracks, high-altitude terrain, and a challenging climb towards Lho La Pass (3,950 m), followed by a descent towards the historic walled city of Lo Manthang. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

Upon arrival in Lo Manthang (3,840 m), check in at Potala Guest House and relax after the day’s cycling. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. Dinner and breakfast are included. The remainder of the day is free to rest or take a first walk around Lo Manthang, known for its historic monasteries, traditional architecture, and distinctive Tibetan Buddhist heritage.

After breakfast at Potala Guest House, spend the day exploring Lo Manthang, the historic walled city and cultural heart of Upper Mustang. Walk through its narrow lanes and traditional courtyards, discovering the distinctive mud-brick houses, ancient walls, prayer wheels, and centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist heritage that give the city its unique character.

During the exploration, visit the Royal Palace and some of the most important monasteries of Lo Manthang, including its historic Buddhist temples and monastic complexes. Your guide will introduce you to the city’s history, architecture, religious traditions, and cultural significance. The day provides time to explore at a relaxed pace, observe local life, and appreciate the remarkable heritage of this remote Himalayan settlement. Lunch is arranged during the sightseeing day at a suitable local restaurant or teahouse.

After the sightseeing, return to Potala Guest House for some well-deserved time to relax after a full day of cultural exploration. You may also take a leisurely walk through the old city, browse local handicrafts, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Lo Manthang as the surrounding mountains take on the changing light of the afternoon. This evening offers an opportunity to reflect on the unique culture and history experienced during your stay in the heart of Upper Mustang. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. Dinner and breakfast are included.

After breakfast at Potala Guest House, set out on an excursion to the fortress ruins high above Lo Manthang. The route leads uphill from the city through the rugged landscape surrounding the former Mustang capital, offering a different perspective of the region’s history and traditional mountain settlements.

At the fortress ruins, take time to explore the remains and enjoy magnificent panoramic views towards Tibet and across the vast, barren landscapes of Upper Mustang. The elevated location provides an impressive viewpoint over Lo Manthang, the surrounding valleys, and the rugged Himalayan terrain. Your guide will provide insight into the historical importance of the site and its strategic location. Lunch is arranged during the excursion at a suitable local restaurant or teahouse.

After lunch, return to Lo Manthang and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at your own pace. You may take a leisurely walk through the old city, revisit places of interest, browse local handicrafts, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and traditional architecture. The afternoon also provides another opportunity to appreciate the surrounding Upper Mustang landscapes and the unique cultural character of Lo Manthang. Accommodation is provided at Potala Guest House in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. Dinner and breakfast are included.

After breakfast at Potala Guest House, begin cycling from Lo Manthang to Chosar, following the route through the remote northern landscapes of Upper Mustang. The ride leads through broad barren valleys, rocky slopes, traditional settlements, and striking Himalayan scenery, with the distinctive landscape gradually becoming more remote as you approach the Chosar Valley.

The cycling stage covers approximately 17 km, with around 450 metres of ascent and 450 metres of descent. The cycling time to complete the journey depends on your individual fitness and pace, allowing you to enjoy the ride comfortably and take time to appreciate the changing landscape. In Chosar, visit the remarkable ancient cave dwellings carved into the cliffs, which offer a fascinating insight into the history and traditional way of life of the people who once lived in these remote mountain settlements. If conditions and local access permit, the excursion can possibly continue towards the border area with Tibet. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

After exploring Chosar and its cave dwellings, cycle back towards Lo Manthang and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at your own pace. The return journey provides another opportunity to appreciate the expansive landscapes and quiet atmosphere of northern Upper Mustang. Back in Lo Manthang, relax at Potala Guest House or take a leisurely walk through the old city. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. Dinner and breakfast are included.

After breakfast at Potala Guest House, begin the return cycling journey from Lo Manthang to Ghami (3,520 m). The route crosses the Marang La Pass (4,125 m), with some sections requiring pushing the bicycle, particularly on the climb towards the pass.

The stage covers approximately 21 km, with around 800 metres of ascent and 1,100 metres of descent. The cycling time to complete the journey depends on your individual fitness and pace, allowing you to enjoy the ride comfortably and take time to appreciate the changing landscape. After crossing Marang La Pass, the route descends towards Ghami, with changing altitude and terrain making this a demanding mountain cycling stage. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

Upon arrival in Ghami (3,520 m), check in at Hotel Lo Ghami and relax after the day’s cycling. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. Dinner and breakfast are included. The remainder of the evening is free to rest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this traditional Upper Mustang village.

After breakfast at the lodge, begin cycling from Ghami to Chusang (2,980 m), following a scenic route through the remote landscapes of Upper Mustang. The journey passes through Syangboche, Samar, and Chele, with dramatic barren valleys, rocky mountain slopes, traditional villages, and striking Himalayan scenery along the way.

The cycling stage covers approximately 35 km, with around 1,400 metres of ascent and 1,950 metres of descent. The cycling time to complete the journey depends on your individual fitness and pace, allowing you to enjoy the ride comfortably and take time to appreciate the changing landscape. The route includes a mixture of climbs, descents, mountain tracks, and rugged sections as you gradually lose altitude towards Chusang. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

Upon arrival in Chusang (2,980 m), check in at Braka Guest House and relax after the day’s cycling. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. Dinner and breakfast are included. The remainder of the evening is free to rest and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this traditional Mustang village.

After breakfast at the lodge, begin the final challenging mountain cycling stage towards Muktinath (3,780 m). The route climbs through the rugged high-altitude landscapes of the Mustang region before reaching Gyu La Pass (4,070 m), offering impressive views across the surrounding Himalayan terrain.

The cycling stage covers approximately 19 km, with around 1,600 metres of ascent and 800 metres of descent. The cycling time to complete the journey depends on your individual fitness and pace, allowing you to enjoy the ride comfortably and take time to appreciate the changing landscape. The substantial ascent to Gyu La Pass makes this a demanding final mountain stage, followed by a long descent towards Muktinath. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

Upon arrival in Muktinath (3,780 m), check in at Hotel Eureka and relax after the challenging day’s cycling. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. Dinner and breakfast are included. The remainder of the evening is free to rest and enjoy the peaceful mountain surroundings of Muktinath.

After breakfast at the lodge, begin cycling downhill from Muktinath (3,780 m) towards Jomsom, continuing through the scenic Kali Gandaki Valley. From Jomsom, the route continues through Marpha (2,650 m) and Tukuche, before reaching Kalopani (2,550 m).

The cycling stage covers approximately 50 km, with around 800 metres of ascent and 2,050 metres of descent. The cycling time to complete the journey depends on your individual fitness and pace, allowing you to enjoy the ride comfortably and take time to appreciate the changing landscape. The route combines long downhill sections with occasional climbs, passing traditional villages, apple orchards, river valleys, and dramatic mountain scenery along the Kali Gandaki corridor. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local teahouse.

Upon arrival in Kalopani (2,550 m), check in at See You Lodge and relax after the day’s cycling. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities. Dinner and breakfast are included. The remainder of the evening is free to rest and enjoy the peaceful mountain surroundings.

After breakfast at See You Lodge, begin cycling from Kalopani (2,550 m) downhill towards Tatopani, continuing through the scenic Kali Gandaki Valley to Beni (850 m). The route marks a major transition from the high mountain landscapes of Mustang to the greener foothills of Nepal.

The cycling stage covers approximately 45 km, with around 300 metres of ascent and 2,000 metres of descent. The cycling time to complete the journey depends on your individual fitness and pace, allowing you to enjoy the ride comfortably and take time to appreciate the changing landscape. The route follows a predominantly downhill course through changing scenery, traditional villages, river valleys, and subtropical landscapes. Lunch is arranged en route by your guide at a suitable local restaurant or teahouse.

Upon arrival in Beni, meet your driver and continue by road to Pokhara, approximately 91 km away. The overland journey typically takes around 3–4 hours, depending on road and traffic conditions. Transportation is arranged by jeep, Hiace, or a similar vehicle, depending on the group size and local arrangements.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, check in at The Silver Oaks Inn and relax after the day’s cycling and road journey. Accommodation is provided in twin-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with private bathroom facilities. Breakfast is included in Pokhara. The remainder of the evening is free to rest or enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Pokhara.

Enjoy a relaxed buffer day in Pokhara (822m) after your Upper Mustang trek, with time to rest or explore the city at your own pace. Visit Phewa Lake and enjoy a peaceful boat ride to Tal Barahi Temple, or head to World Peace Pagoda or Sarangkot for panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. You can also stroll around the lively Lakeside area, with its cafés, restaurants, and local shops.

Use the day to discover Pokhara’s highlights according to your interests, including Devi’s Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, Bindhyabasini Temple, Seti Gorge, and Pumdikot. Your guide can help arrange sightseeing and activities, while the flexible schedule also allows you to simply relax after the trek.

Stay overnight at Hotel Silver Oaks Inn or a similar-standard hotel in Pokhara. Enjoy a peaceful evening beside Phewa Lake, explore Lakeside, or savour local cuisine as you unwind and prepare for your onward journey.

After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Pokhara before heading to the airport. Take a relaxed walk around Lakeside, stroll beside Phewa Lake, or enjoy a final glimpse of the city before your flight to Kathmandu.

Proceed to Pokhara Airport for your flight to Kathmandu (1,400m), usually departing between 9:00 and 10:00 am. The flight takes approximately 25–30 minutes, offering beautiful aerial views of Nepal’s green hills, terraced fields, winding rivers, and Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival, meet your private vehicle and driver, transfer to Hotel Kailash Kutee or a similar-standard hotel, and have lunch before your afternoon sightseeing.

After lunch, the afternoon is free for optional half-day sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley. You may choose Swayambhunath and Kathmandu Durbar Square for heritage and city views; Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa for Nepal’s Hindu and Buddhist traditions; or Bhaktapur Durbar Square for its historic architecture, temples, and traditional Newari culture. Alternatively, you can simply relax at the hotel or explore the nearby area at your own pace. Accommodation is on a twin-sharing basis with a private bathroom, including breakfast.

As your Himalayan journey comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on Nepal’s stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences—from majestic mountain landscapes to the warm hospitality of local communities.

For a smooth departure, a representative of Monkvana | Himalayan Monks Sp. z o.o., operating through its local partner Jagdamba Holidays, will meet you at your hotel approximately 3.5 hours before your scheduled flight and provide a comfortable transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.

Thank you for choosing Monkvana | Himalayan Monks Sp. z o.o. and Jagdamba Holidays. We look forward to welcoming you again on future journeys across the Himalayas and beyond.