About Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour - 14 Days
The Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour is an adventurous and scenic journey that takes riders through the remote, semi-arid desert landscape of the Mustang region in Nepal. Known for its unique Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, and stunning Himalayan views, this tour offers an incredible experience for motorcycle enthusiasts.
Upper Mustang, a restricted area located in the north-central part of Nepal, is often called the "Last Forbidden Kingdom." Historically, it was closed to foreigners until 1992, and today it is a protected region due to its unique cultural heritage and fragile environment. The area is famous for its Tibetan Buddhist influence, ancient caves, monasteries, and unique landscape with rock formations, cliffs, and desert terrain.
Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour offers you a spectacular mountain view of the dramatic valley through a fabulous journey of a lifetime experience. The Upper Mustang Motorbike tour leads us to get in touch with a rich cultural group of upper Mustang areas. Nepal Spirit Adventure’s Guide will take you to the highest altitude Tibetan Plateau with amazing scenery of landscapes and high snowcapped peaks of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Bhirkuti, Damodar, and Mustang Himal including views of Annapurna ranges.
Why Choose a Motorbike Tour?
Motorbike tours in Upper Mustang are becoming increasingly popular for several reasons:
Adventure: Riding a motorbike through the rugged terrain of Upper Mustang adds an extra layer of excitement compared to traditional trekking.
Accessibility: The motorbike tour allows you to cover more ground in less time, making it easier to visit remote villages and historical sites.
Flexibility: Motorbike tours offer more freedom in terms of stops and detours, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
Cultural Experience: The region’s deep-rooted Tibetan culture is best explored with the flexibility and speed a motorbike provides. You’ll visit ancient monasteries, interact with locals, and learn about the rich history and religion of the region.
Key Attractions in Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour:
During your motorbike tour, you’ll pass by numerous exciting places, including.
Lo Manthang: The ancient walled city and capital of Upper Mustang. Visit the royal palace, monasteries, and Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Tiji Festival (if timing allows): Held in May, this religious festival is a highlight for those who visit during that time.
Caves of Upper Mustang: Ancient cave dwellings carved into the cliffs (Chhoser Caves, etc.).
Ghar Gumba: One of the oldest monasteries in the region.
Jomsom: A popular rest stop and gateway to Upper Mustang, known for its apple orchards and local culture.
Best Season for Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour
The best time to go on an Upper Mustang motorbike tour is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, when the weather is most favorable.
Spring (March to May): Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, and the region experiences clear skies, making it perfect for outdoor activities. This is also the time when you can witness beautiful blooming flowers and green landscapes in the lower parts of the region.
Autumn (September to November): After the monsoon season, the skies are clear, and the temperatures are mild, ranging from 12°C to 20°C. This is the most popular season for trekking and motorbike tours in the region because of the pleasant weather conditions.
Winter (December to February) is harsh with heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and closed trails, while summer (June to August) brings monsoons, which could make the roads slippery and more dangerous.
Upper Mustang Motorbike Permit Cost:
Traveling to Upper Mustang by motorbike/ trekking requires special permits because it is restricted. To undertake the motorbike tour and need a minimum of two people to obtain the permit is called a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). This is mandatory for entering Upper Mustang. The RAP can be obtained through a licensed trekking or tour agency. We need also another permit called the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), the Upper Mustang lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you need an ACAP.
Cost: Restricted area permit cost per person is USD 500 a 10-day and the additional cost for any extra days is 50 dollars per day. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit costs USD 23 per person.
Why Visit Upper Mustang?
Rich Tibetan Culture: The area is home to unique Tibetan Buddhist traditions and practices. The region has preserved its culture, and visiting the monasteries and meeting locals will give you a deep understanding of their way of life.
Breathtaking Scenery: The stark desert landscapes, ancient caves, and the dramatic backdrop of the Himalayas are awe-inspiring. The Kali Gandaki River Valley, deep gorges, and panoramic mountain views are some of the highlights.
Historical Significance: Upper Mustang’s walled city of Lo Manthang and the caves and monasteries tell the stories of centuries-old Buddhist practices. The area was once a kingdom that existed for centuries and had significant influence in the region.
Adventure: Riding a motorbike through some of the most challenging terrain in the world is an unforgettable experience for motorbike enthusiasts and adventure lovers.
Safety Tips for the Motorbike Tour
Experienced Riders Only: Upper Mustang's roads can be rough and challenging, especially in the higher altitudes. It is recommended that participants have previous motorbike riding experience.
Motorbike Condition: Ensure the motorbike is well-maintained and suitable for the terrain (most tours provide sturdy off-road bikes like Royal Enfield).
Altitude: The region sits at a high altitude, so take precautions against altitude sickness. Be sure to acclimatize properly, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Travel Insurance: Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers both medical emergencies and motorcycle accidents.
Terms of Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour
You must present your permit before entering the Upper Mustang. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs $30 USD per person, must be purchased in addition to the limited permit. According to Nepali government regulations, a minimum of two individuals must hike to qualify for the Upper Mustang Motorbike tour.
Suitable Motorbike
Dirt bikes are excellent for a more comfortable and appropriate motorbike ride to the upper Mustang. However, Nepal and Kathmandu have fewer of these bikes due to the higher daily rental costs. We strongly suggest the Royal Enfield Classic or Himalayan. Although there are various company bakes, such as Bajaj, RE Classic is best for heavy bodies, and RE Himalayan is best for light bodies.
Motorbike Tour to Upper Mustang
An Upper Mustang motorbike tour is an incredible opportunity to experience one of the last untouched corners of the Himalayas. The adventure of riding through remote villages, encountering ancient Tibetan culture, and exploring stunning landscapes makes it an ideal trip for those looking for a blend of adventure and cultural immersion.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are ideal for the ride, ensuring perfect weather for riding and exploring the majestic Upper Mustang region.