Welcome to Nepal!

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a Trekadviser representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu.

After check-in, you can relax and recover from your journey or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, Nepal's famous tourist district filled with restaurants, cafés, trekking shops, and cultural attractions.

In the evening, you'll meet your expedition leader for a welcome briefing covering the upcoming adventure, safety procedures, and tour details.

Accommodation: Hotel

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Kathmandu Valley with a guided sightseeing tour of Nepal's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist monuments in the world, where pilgrims circle the white dome while prayer flags flutter in the mountain breeze. Continue to the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal's holiest Hindu temple, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. Later, explore Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, offering spectacular panoramic views over Kathmandu Valley.

In the afternoon, the focus shifts from sightseeing to adventure. Visit the motorcycle garage where your Royal Enfield Himalayan will be prepared for the expedition. Your ride leader will introduce you to the motorcycle, explain its features, and assist with luggage fitting, riding position adjustments, and a short test ride to ensure everyone is comfortable before leaving the city.

The remainder of the day is dedicated to completing permit formalities, checking riding gear, and packing your luggage for the days ahead.

Today marks the beginning of your Himalayan motorcycle expedition. After an early breakfast, leave Kathmandu behind and ride west along Nepal's scenic Prithvi Highway, following the winding Trishuli River through lush hills, traditional villages, and terraced farmland.

The route offers a perfect introduction to riding in Nepal, combining smooth mountain highways with endless curves and breathtaking scenery. Along the way, stop at several picturesque locations including Thankot Viewpoint, the riverside town of Malekhu, famous for its fresh fish restaurants, and Mugling, where the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers meet. Continue through small roadside villages and local markets before arriving in the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara.

As the Annapurna Range rises dramatically above the city, spend the evening relaxing beside the tranquil waters of Phewa Lake. Explore Lakeside's cafés, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife while preparing for tomorrow's journey into the Himalayas.

After breakfast, collect your Royal Enfield Himalayan and officially begin your off-road adventure toward Upper Mustang. Leaving Pokhara behind, ride through the picturesque villages of Nayapul, Birethanti, Kusma, Baglung, and Beni while gradually entering the spectacular Kali Gandaki Valley.

The route offers an exciting combination of smooth mountain roads and rugged off-road sections, making it the perfect warm-up for the challenging terrain ahead. Along the journey, stop at the famous Kusma Suspension Bridge, one of the longest and highest suspension bridges in Nepal, where breathtaking views of deep river gorges await. Continue riding past hidden waterfalls, traditional Magar and Gurung villages, terraced hillsides, and dramatic viewpoints overlooking the Kali Gandaki River.

Beyond Beni, the road becomes increasingly adventurous as you follow dusty mountain tracks carved into towering cliffs. Keep an eye out for soaring Himalayan eagles, cascading waterfalls, and remote settlements that few travelers ever visit.

By late afternoon, arrive at Tatopani, a charming mountain village famous for its natural hot springs. Relax in the therapeutic mineral-rich pools surrounded by lush hills before enjoying a traditional Nepali dinner and settling in for the night.

Distance: Approx. 95 km | Riding Time: 6–7 Hours

Wake up to the crisp mountain air and enjoy breakfast before continuing north into the heart of the Himalayas. Today's ride follows the legendary Kali Gandaki Valley, the world's deepest river gorge, flanked by the towering peaks of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and Annapurna I (8,091 m). As the elevation gradually increases, the lush green hills of western Nepal slowly transform into the dramatic desert landscapes of the Trans-Himalayan region.

The journey passes through several picturesque Thakali villages, including Ghasa, Lete, Kalopani, Kobang, and Larjung, each offering a glimpse into the unique lifestyle and culture of the Mustang region. Along the way, stop to admire the breathtaking Rupse Waterfall, one of Nepal's tallest waterfalls, before continuing toward the famous village of Marpha, often referred to as the "Apple Capital of Nepal."

Take time to explore Marpha's beautifully paved stone streets, traditional whitewashed houses, centuries-old monastery, and local apple orchards. Visit a family-run apple brandy and dried fruit factory to sample some of the region's most famous local products before continuing your ride.

The route then follows the wide, wind-swept riverbed to Jomsom, the administrative headquarters of Mustang. Explore the old marketplace, enjoy spectacular views of Nilgiri Himal, and experience the strong afternoon winds that make Jomsom famous among adventure travelers.

Leaving Jomsom behind, follow the ancient Himalayan salt trading route to the medieval village of Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. Dating back more than 600 years, Kagbeni is one of Nepal's best-preserved Himalayan villages, featuring narrow stone alleyways, ancient mud-brick houses, and sacred Buddhist monasteries.

In the evening, wander through the hidden lanes of the village, visit the historic Kag Chode Monastery, discover centuries-old prayer wheels, and walk to the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Jhong Rivers, where pilgrims search for sacred Shaligram fossils believed to represent Lord Vishnu.

As the sun sets behind the Nilgiri range, enjoy your first night in the mystical land of Mustang.

Distance: Approx. 85 km | Riding Time: 6–7 Hours

Today marks the beginning of your journey into the legendary Upper Mustang Restricted Area, one of the most isolated and culturally preserved regions in the Himalayas.

After breakfast, ride uphill to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath Temple (3,800 m), a revered destination for both Hindus and Buddhists. Explore the temple complex, walk beneath the 108 sacred water spouts, witness the eternal natural flame, and visit nearby Buddhist monasteries while enjoying magnificent views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

After returning to Kagbeni to complete permit formalities, officially enter the restricted kingdom through the military checkpoint. Beyond this point, the landscape changes dramatically. Green forests disappear, replaced by towering sandstone cliffs, colorful canyons, and barren desert valleys sculpted by centuries of wind and erosion.

Ride through the beautiful villages of Tangbe and Chhusang, where traditional Tibetan-style homes, barley fields, and ancient irrigation systems continue to support local communities. Stop to admire the spectacular red cliffs of Chhusang, one of the most photographed geological formations in Upper Mustang.

Continue riding past hidden meditation caves carved high into the cliffs, centuries-old chortens, and long stretches of colorful prayer walls before climbing to Nya La Pass (4,010 m). From the summit, enjoy sweeping views across the vast Mustang plateau, snow-capped Himalayan peaks, and the remote valleys stretching toward Tibet.

Descending from the pass, arrive in the peaceful village of Ghami, home to one of the longest Mani Walls in Nepal. Spend the evening exploring the quiet settlement and experiencing the warm hospitality of the local people.

Distance: Approx. 55 km | Riding Time: 5–6 Hours

Today's ride is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the expedition, taking you through some of Upper Mustang's most spectacular landscapes and culturally significant villages.

Leaving Ghami behind, ride through the remarkable Dhakmar Valley, famous for its towering crimson cliffs. According to local legend, these dramatic red rock formations were created when Guru Rinpoche defeated a powerful demon, making the area an important spiritual site for Tibetan Buddhists.

Continue along ancient caravan routes once used by traders traveling between Nepal and Tibet. Along the way, pass centuries-old chortens, hidden meditation caves, colorful prayer flags fluttering in the mountain wind, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking Mustang's dramatic desert valleys.

Arrive at the historic village of Tsarang (Charang), one of the cultural treasures of Upper Mustang. Explore the magnificent Tsarang Monastery, renowned for its ancient murals and Buddhist scriptures, before visiting the impressive five-story Tsarang Palace, which served as an important administrative center during the Kingdom of Lo.

Leaving Tsarang, the final stretch of today's ride crosses wide-open valleys before revealing the magnificent walled city of Lo Manthang rising from the desert landscape. Founded in the 14th century, Lo Manthang remains one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Himalayas and was once the capital of the independent Kingdom of Mustang.

After checking into your traditional lodge, spend the evening wandering through narrow stone streets lined with whitewashed homes, ancient monasteries, local markets, and beautifully decorated prayer walls. The peaceful atmosphere and timeless architecture make Lo Manthang one of Nepal's most unforgettable destinations.

Today is dedicated to discovering the hidden treasures surrounding the ancient Kingdom of Lo. Rather than trekking, you'll continue exploring by Royal Enfield, riding through remote valleys and little-visited settlements beyond the city walls.

After breakfast, begin an unforgettable ride to Chhoser Village, one of the oldest settlements in Upper Mustang. Here you'll visit the remarkable Jhong Sky Caves, an extraordinary five-story cave complex carved into vertical cliffs more than 2,000 years ago. These mysterious caves were once used as homes, meditation chambers, and burial sites, and remain one of Mustang's greatest archaeological wonders.

Continue to the secluded Garphu Monastery, believed to be among the oldest monasteries in the region, where centuries-old Buddhist murals, prayer halls, and sacred relics preserve the area's spiritual heritage. Ride further to Nyphu Cave Monastery, a hidden monastery built directly into a cliff face, offering breathtaking views across the Mustang Valley.

The journey also includes a visit to Namgyal Gompa, perched high above Lo Manthang and regarded as one of the kingdom's most important monasteries. Continue through the traditional farming village of Tingkhar, where locals still cultivate barley and maintain a lifestyle that has changed little over the centuries.

Throughout the day, enjoy spectacular views of the Tibetan Plateau, ancient caravan trails, dramatic sandstone formations, and remote Himalayan landscapes rarely seen by ordinary visitors.

Return to Lo Manthang in the late afternoon, where you can relax with a cup of traditional butter tea or explore the old town before another peaceful night in the heart of the Forbidden Kingdom.

Distance: Approx. 95 km | Riding Time: 6–7 Hours

After breakfast, leave the ancient walled city behind and begin an unforgettable ride toward Kora La (4,660 m), the historic border crossing between Nepal and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. This remote route follows one of the oldest Himalayan trade corridors, where caravans once transported salt, wool, and grain between Tibet and Nepal.

The trail winds across vast high-altitude plains surrounded by dramatic desert mountains, colorful rock formations, and endless views of the Tibetan Plateau. Along the way, pass isolated nomadic settlements, ancient chortens, prayer flag-covered ridges, and hidden valleys that remain virtually untouched by modern development.

Upon reaching Kora La, enjoy spectacular panoramic views stretching into Tibet while learning about the historical importance of this ancient trading route. Depending on border regulations and weather conditions, spend time photographing the incredible Himalayan landscape before beginning your return journey.

Instead of retracing the same route, continue toward the remote Yara Valley, one of Upper Mustang's least-visited regions. The ride follows rugged off-road trails through narrow canyons and barren hills before arriving in the peaceful village of Yara, where traditional mud-brick homes, barley fields, and ancient Buddhist culture have remained unchanged for centuries.

Enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by the silence of one of Nepal's most remote Himalayan villages.

Distance: Approx. 90 km | Riding Time: 7–8 Hours

Today is one of the most adventurous and rewarding days of the expedition as you explore the hidden valleys east of Upper Mustang.

After breakfast, ride through spectacular desert landscapes toward the remarkable Luri Gompa, one of Mustang's oldest and most sacred cave monasteries. Hidden beneath towering sandstone cliffs, this 14th-century monastery features ancient Buddhist paintings, meditation chambers, and sacred stupas carved directly into the rock. Few visitors make it here, making it one of the true hidden gems of the Himalayas.

Continue riding through the isolated village of Tange, one of the most traditional settlements in Upper Mustang. Here you'll experience authentic Tibetan culture, centuries-old farming practices, and breathtaking views across deep canyons and colorful rock formations.

The route follows ancient caravan trails through dramatic landscapes, crossing dry riverbeds, narrow valleys, and high desert plateaus before reconnecting with the main Upper Mustang route near Chhusang.

Along today's ride you'll discover hidden fossil fields, abandoned cave dwellings, ancient mani walls, and spectacular viewpoints overlooking the Kali Gandaki Valley.

Arrive in Chhusang by late afternoon and relax at your traditional teahouse after one of the most scenic off-road rides in Nepal.

Distance: Approx. 95 km | Riding Time: 6–7 Hours

After breakfast, begin your descent through the spectacular Kali Gandaki Valley, leaving the dramatic desert landscapes of Upper Mustang behind.

Ride once again through Kagbeni, where you can stop for a final coffee overlooking the ancient village before continuing south toward Jomsom.

As the altitude gradually decreases, barren valleys slowly transform into greener landscapes. Stop at several panoramic viewpoints overlooking Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and the broad Kali Gandaki riverbed, one of the world's highest river valleys.

Upon reaching Marpha, spend the afternoon exploring this beautiful Thakali village in greater detail. Wander through its charming stone-paved alleys, visit the historic monastery, browse local handicraft shops, and sample freshly produced apple cider, dried apples, apple pie, and the region's famous apple brandy.

For photography enthusiasts, the surrounding apple orchards, traditional houses, and snow-covered Himalayan backdrop create one of Mustang's most picturesque settings.

Distance: Approx. 165 km | Riding Time: 7–8 Hours

Enjoy an early breakfast before beginning the long but rewarding ride back toward Pokhara.

Follow the Kali Gandaki River through Kalopani, Lete, Ghasa, Tatopani, Beni, and Kusma, experiencing once again the dramatic transition from the dry Tibetan plateau to Nepal's lush mid-hills.

Take time to stop at scenic waterfalls, suspension bridges, riverside cafés, and mountain viewpoints along the route. The changing landscapes make this one of Nepal's most enjoyable motorcycle journeys, with every hour offering a completely different riding experience.

Arrive in Pokhara during the afternoon and return your Royal Enfield motorcycles after completing one of Nepal's finest off-road adventures.

Celebrate the successful completion of your expedition with a farewell dinner beside Phewa Lake, sharing stories and unforgettable memories with your riding team while the Annapurna Range glows in the evening light.

Distance: Approx. 210 km | Riding Time: 7–8 Hours

Your final riding day follows the scenic Prithvi Highway back to Kathmandu.

Enjoy one last opportunity to experience Nepal's winding mountain roads, picturesque villages, terraced hillsides, and river valleys. Stop at local tea houses along the way, interact with friendly locals, and take in the beautiful countryside before returning to the capital.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and enjoy some free time for souvenir shopping or relaxing in Thamel. In the evening, gather with your expedition team for a special farewell dinner celebrating the successful completion of your Project Offroad – Upper Mustang Motorcycle Expedition.

Receive your completion certificate and relive the highlights of an incredible Himalayan adventure.

After breakfast, your unforgettable Himalayan motorcycle adventure comes to an end.

Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy some free time before a Trekadviser representative transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.

As you leave Nepal, you'll take home unforgettable memories of riding through the world's deepest gorge, exploring the ancient Kingdom of Mustang, crossing high Himalayan passes, visiting centuries-old monasteries, and discovering remote villages that few travelers ever have the opportunity to experience.

We sincerely thank you for choosing Trekadviser and look forward to welcoming you back for another extraordinary adventure in the Himalayas.