Mountain Biking Tour- Annapurna Circuit- 14 Days

Our adventure begins with a cultural immersion and a gentle warm-up ride in the Kathmandu Valley. We’ll explore the city’s rich heritage before setting off on a scenic ride, typically taking riders up to Dhadgaon and into Shivapuri National Park. This enjoyable 4-5 hour ride culminates at the iconic Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in Asia. Here, we’ll enjoy lunch and explore this significant Buddhist site, offering a fascinating glimpse into Buddhist culture.

After an early breakfast, the support crew will load luggage and bikes onto transfer vehicles for the coach journey to Besi Sahar (approx. 6 hours), departing Kathmandu around 8 am. We’ll stop for lunch en route, arriving in Besi Sahar by mid-afternoon, allowing time to explore the town and warm up on local trails.

Today’s ride begins with a short road section before transitioning to dirt trails with numerous stream crossings. After approximately 5km of relatively flat terrain, the trail begins a sustained climb to Taal, situated on the banks of the Marshyangdi River.

Leaving Taal, the trail ascends a steep, rocky jeep track, passing a spectacular waterfall en route to Timang. The final 9km offers a gentler, undulating ride to Chame, a larger village in the Annapurna region, located in a narrow valley. Riders may begin to feel the effects of higher altitude and cooler temperatures.

As we gain altitude, riding distances shorten, but the challenges remain. The trail climbs through pine forests before opening into a valley leading to Manang. Weather conditions can vary significantly, from mud and even snow to hard-packed, fast-flowing terrain.

This essential rest day in Manang allows for altitude acclimatization and provides a break from cycling. Explore the town, embark on short treks or rides, or enjoy the local bakeries, cafes, and restaurants.

Despite the short distance, this ride will be demanding due to the high altitude. We’ll finish at 4450m above sea level, with potential for snow and very cold conditions. The reward is breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.

An early start is crucial to avoid high winds on the pass. A challenging 5km hike-a-bike section, likely with snow and freezing temperatures, leads to the highest point of the trip: Thorong La Pass (5416m). This section can take 3-6 hours. The descent from the pass (9km, 5416m to 3800m) offers an incredible downhill experience to Muktinath, home of the sacred eternal flame temple.

We’ll begin on the road before entering the Lubra Valley trails, ascending to Lupra Pass for stunning views of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna ranges. A fast downhill singletrack leads to the Kaligandaki River valley, followed by a 6km flat section to Jomsom. After lunch, the trail undulates to Marpha. Experienced riders can opt for more technical singletrack sections. Marpha is known for its apple orchards and local apple products like brandy and cider.

A mostly downhill ride to Tatopani, starting with a gentle, flat section through pine forests and villages, following the river with views of snow-capped peaks (weather permitting). We’ll stop for lunch at the Rukse Chaahara waterfalls. A fast-paced descent on a rough jeep track (approx. 1000m drop) brings us to Tatopani, famous for its rejuvenating hot springs.

The final ride! A relaxed, undulating trail leads to Maldhunga (21km jeep track to Beni, then broken tarmac). From Maldhunga, we’ll transfer by vehicle to Pokhara (approx. 3-4 hours). Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore the lakeside town. (Optional: Continue riding to Pokhara – 82km total with a long climb and descent, adding approx. 4 hours).

Return to Kathmandu by a short flight (25 minutes, extra cost) or an 8-hour bus journey (please specify your preference at booking). The afternoon is free for shopping, exploring temples, or other activities in Kathmandu.

After breakfast or depending upon your flight schedule we will transfer you to the airport. As your plane takes off from the runway in Kathmandu, your journey to Nepal comes to an end for this time — until you decide to visit again for some memorable and soul-searching trip in the Himalayas.