Overview

The upper mustang motorbike tour is a challenging experience that will test your riding skills and endurance. It offers a unique and otherworldly experience in a foreign land. In comparison, the Lower Mustang motorbike tour is slightly easier and requires moderate riding skills.

The upper mustang motorbike expedition guide is an exhilarating and thrilling experience that stands out among others. As you embark on this adventure, you will come across countless hills, waterfalls, and even challenging trails when the terrain becomes difficult and the air becomes thin in the alpine region.

Ideal Season for Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour

Although Upper Mustang can be visited at any time of the year, the autumn and spring seasons are the most popular among travelers. During these seasons, it is a wonderful experience to ride a bike and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of nature. The weather is usually pleasant, offering a clear view of the landscape and a vibrant blue sky. 

As you ride your motorcycle, you will come across beautiful flowers in various colors, lush green grass, and friendly locals with smiling faces. When riding a motorcycle in the winter in Upper Mustang, it can be challenging due to the trail being covered in glowing white snow. This makes it difficult to ride smoothly and increases the risk of your bike slipping. Therefore, caution must be taken when riding a motorcycle in the cold.

What Permits and Entrance Fees are Required?

Upper Mustang is considered the final forbidden kingdom of Nepal. In order to enter this area and embark on a motorbike riding adventure, these permits are necessary. 

• The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is priced at NPR 3000.00 per person or USD 30 per person. 
• The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) costs USD 500.00 per person for 10 days, with an additional USD 50 per person per day to extend the duration.
• Each rider is required to possess a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card, which will incur a fee of approximately USD 20 per individual.

Where to Stay?

During your motorbike tour, you will frequently find tea houses as the most common accommodation option. These tea houses are available at every stop, including Jomsom, Ghami, Lo Manthang, and others. Tea houses provide basic amenities such as dormitory living rooms and shared bathrooms. 

Additional charges may apply for internet usage and gadget charging. Another type of accommodation is guest houses or hotels, which can be found in Jomsom and Kagbeni. These guest houses also offer shared bedrooms and bathrooms, with some providing 24/7 electricity and internet services.

What to Eat?

During your motorcycle tour, tea houses will be the most common type of accommodation. These tea houses can be found at every stop, including Jomsom, Ghami, Lo Manthang, and others. Most of the time, bikers can enjoy traditional Nepali cuisine such as Daal, Bhaat, and Tarkari.  

You can try the famous Thakali Set at Jomsom and Kagbeni, which includes Dhindo, fermented pickles, rice, and more. All tea houses and hotels offer traditional dishes, while some hotels in Jomsom also serve Western cuisine like pizza. For drinking water, you may need to buy it from a local store. They provide clean drinking water as well as tea, coffee, beer, and alcohol.

Motorbike Tour Difficulty

The upper Mustang Motor bike Tour is of moderate difficulty. Although it may be simple for experienced and off-road motorbike adventurers, riders with limited experience on off-roads may find it to be a challenge. While traveling, it is necessary for motorcycle tourists to navigate through difficult terrains. The majority of the paths are uphill, which can prove to be a challenge for many individuals. 

Therefore, we suggest having previous experience in off-road driving. The maximum altitude reached during this tour is 3,840 meters at Lo Manthang. Reaching such a high altitude can pose health risks to the traveler, such as altitude sickness. Therefore, they should be prepared for high altitudes and different landscapes. 

The temperature at higher altitudes may also be colder than at lower altitudes, so it would be wise to pack warm clothing and appropriate riding gear. Riding in the peak season is fine, but if you plan to undertake this journey during the off-seasons such as monsoon and winter, you should take into account the trail conditions, temperature, and natural hazards such as landslides, heavy snowfall, and others.

How to Prepare for the Upper Mustang Bike Tour?

Before starting an upper mustang motorbike tour, it is crucial to ensure that your motorbike is in optimal condition. Thoroughly inspect all components, address any mechanical issues, and remember to pack essential spare parts. In addition, make sure to pack suitable clothing for various weather conditions, such as warm clothes for cold nights and durable attire for riding. 

Additionally, ensure that you have enough supplies like water and food as the area can be challenging to navigate with limited assistance. Familiarize yourself with the customs and regulations of the local area to demonstrate respect for the culture. Lastly, acclimate gradually and bring necessary medications to prepare for high altitudes. 

During the tour, prioritize safety and adhere to traffic regulations. This is crucial as the path to Upper Mustang can be challenging and unpredictable. Stay informed about the weather conditions in your vicinity and be prepared to alter your plans in case of unforeseen issues.

Conclusion:

As the dust settles and the engine hum fades, the echoes of Upper Mustang’s rugged beauty and cultural richness linger in our minds. The Upper Mustang motorbike tour isn’t just a journey; it’s a tapestry of unforgettable moments woven with every twist of the throttle. 

From traversing ancient trails to immersing ourselves in the warmth of Mustang’s people, this expedition leaves an indelible mark on our souls. As we bid farewell to this mystical land, we carry with us not just photographs but a treasure trove of memories to cherish for a lifetime.