Upper Mustang Motorcycle Tour – The Forbidden Kingdom

Welcome to Pokhara, Nepal's adventure capital and the gateway to the Himalayas. Upon arrival, our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel before the expedition briefing and motorcycle handover. In the late afternoon, embark on an introductory ride to Pumdikot Viewpoint for panoramic Himalayan vistas over Phewa Lake and get familiar with the bikes. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant.

The expedition begins by following the legendary Kali Gandaki River through lush valleys, dramatic gorges and traditional mountain villages. Along the way, we stop at the spectacular Rupse Waterfall before climbing deeper into the Himalayas. Nestled beneath the towering peaks of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri, Kalopani offers breathtaking mountain scenery and marks the beginning of your true Himalayan riding experience. En route, visit Titi Lake.

Today's ride passes through the beautiful apple village of Marpha, the windswept town of Jomsom and the ancient settlement of Kagbeni before climbing towards Muktinath. As the forests gradually disappear, the landscape transforms into the rugged beauty of Mustang. En route, we detour to sacred turquoise Dhumba Lake and ascend to the Jomsom View Tower before continuing towards sacred Muktinath (3,800m), one of Nepal's most revered pilgrimage destinations.

Today we ride into the legendary Restricted Area of Upper Mustang, leaving the familiar Himalayas behind as the landscape transforms into colourful cliffs, vast canyons and remote Tibetan settlements. Following ancient trade routes once used between Nepal and Tibet, the journey feels like travelling back in time. We end the day in historic Tsarang, home to one of Mustang's oldest monasteries and an impressive royal palace.

A short but spectacular ride across the windswept plateau brings us to Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of the Kingdom of Lo. Hidden from the outside world for centuries, this remarkable city preserves its Tibetan culture, traditional architecture and centuries-old monasteries. The afternoon is yours to explore its narrow lanes and discover one of the Himalayas' most fascinating cultural treasures.

Today is dedicated to discovering the hidden treasures of Upper Mustang beyond the city walls. Ride to the remote village of Chhoser, visit the mysterious Sky Caves carved high into the cliffs and explore ancient monasteries that have stood for centuries. Spending two nights here allows you to experience the region's rich culture and history without rushing through one of Nepal's most extraordinary destinations.

Leaving the Kingdom of Lo behind, we retrace our route through Upper Mustang's dramatic landscapes before descending into greener valleys. The changing scenery reminds you just how diverse Nepal's landscapes truly are. By evening we arrive in Marpha, a charming Himalayan village renowned for its whitewashed houses, apple orchards and warm mountain hospitality.

Following the mighty Kali Gandaki River south, today's ride combines flowing mountain roads with spectacular Himalayan scenery. En route to Pokhara, we stop at the Kushma Suspension Bridge, with an optional chance to take on the exhilarating 228 m Kushma bungee jump over the Kali Gandaki canyon. As the altitude drops, the barren landscapes gradually give way to lush forests and vibrant valleys. Returning to Pokhara feels like a well-earned reward after completing one of the world's most remarkable mountain rides.

After days of adventure in the mountains, enjoy a relaxed day exploring Nepal's adventure capital. Take a boat ride across Phewa Lake, visit the lively lakeside cafes or simply unwind while enjoying magnificent views of the Annapurna Range. Visit the famous International Mountain Museum, one of the highlights of the day. This pause allows you to recharge before discovering another completely different side of Nepal.

Today's ride starts in Pokhara and winds through changing Himalayan landscapes toward Bandipur, where we pause for a short halt and time to explore its heritage streets, take in the hilltop views or refresh before continuing onward. We then ride to Chitwan the same day, transitioning from mountain scenery through historic hill country to the warm subtropical plains. It is a varied and rewarding day that brings together open road riding, cultural discovery and the promise of Chitwan's wild landscapes.

From Himalayan roads to the jungles of Nepal — today we park the motorcycles and swap two wheels for a 4x4 wildlife safari, searching for rhinos, deer, crocodiles and, with some luck, the Bengal tiger. The evening slows down beside the Rapti River before we experience the traditions, music and dance of the indigenous Tharu community.

Our final riding day leaves Chitwan’s subtropical plains behind as we climb steadily into the green mid-hills of central Nepal. The road winds through market towns, river crossings and terraced hillsides, revealing the diverse landscapes that have defined this expedition. After high-altitude deserts, ancient kingdoms, dense jungles and heritage hilltops, the first glimpse of Kathmandu’s sprawling valley feels like entering another world. This is our last ride through the Himalayas. On reaching the capital, we check into our hotel and hang up our riding gear for the final time.

Today, we explore Kathmandu not by bikes but by car, giving you the chance to discover the city at your own pace. Visit the ancient stupas of Boudhanath and Swayambhunath, wander through the narrow lanes of Thamel, or explore the historic Durbar Squares. Absorb the spiritual energy of Nepal’s capital, a fitting end to a journey from the highest deserts to the deepest gorges. In the evening, gather for a memorable farewell dinner and celebrate the roads, friendships and experiences of the Upper Mustang expedition.

After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight home. Your Upper Mustang expedition ends here, but the roads conquered, friendships made and memories of the Forbidden Kingdom will remain long after you return home.

Royal Enfield Himalayan 450

Liquid-Cooled Sherpa 452cc • 40 PS • Showa USD Suspension

Provided with dual-sport tires, heavy-duty engine crash bars, sump plate, USB-C rapid charger, and luggage racks.

Dedicated 4x4 Mobile Workshop Rig

Luggage Transfer • Spares • Emergency Backup Bike • Medical Oxygen

Dedicated 4x4 Support Rig with certified Royal Enfield factory mechanic, complete spare parts inventory, mobile tool workshop, backup motorcycle, rider luggage transfer, first-aid & medical oxygen kit.

What special permits are required for the Forbidden Kingdom Motorcycle Tour?

Upper Mustang is a regulated Restricted Area near the Tibetan border. We arrange and include all mandatory government permits in your tour package, including the Special Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), Chitwan National Park permits, and TIMS card.

Where does this 14-day expedition start and finish?

The 14-day, 1,250 km expedition starts in Pokhara (PKR) and finishes in Kathmandu (KTM), Nepal. Airport reception in Pokhara on Day 1 and private VIP airport departure transfer in Kathmandu on Day 14 are fully included.

How does this 14-day tour differ from the 10-day Upper Mustang tour?

While the 10-day tour is a focused Pokhara-to-Pokhara ride, the 14-day Forbidden Kingdom Tour extends well beyond Mustang: after returning to Pokhara, you ride south to explore the traffic-free 18th-century Newari ridge town of Bandipur, spend 2 nights in Chitwan National Park with a private 4x4 open-jeep wildlife safari (rhinos, elephants, tigers), conquer the mid-hill climb into Kathmandu, and enjoy a chauffeured private tour of Kathmandu's UNESCO heritage stupas.

What motorcycle is provided for this expedition?

All riders are equipped with factory-prepared Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 motorcycles, with fuel and scheduled mechanical maintenance included throughout the ride.

What riding experience and fitness level are required?

The route traverses rocky river gorges, gravel switchbacks, river crossings, and high-altitude desert up to 3,840m in Lo Manthang, before descending to 450m in Chitwan. Riders should hold a valid motorcycle license with an International Driving Permit (IDP) and possess solid intermediate to advanced off-road or adventure touring experience.

How does luggage transfer, 4x4 support, and riding season work?

A dedicated 4x4 support vehicle travels with the group carrying all rider luggage, spare parts, tools, first aid, and medical oxygen, accompanied by a lead road captain and in-house mechanic. The prime riding seasons are Spring (March to June) and Autumn (September to November).

Is Upper Mustang suitable for beginner motorcycle riders?

Our Upper Mustang Motorcycle Tour is best suited for riders with previous motorcycle touring experience and basic off-road skills. Riders should be comfortable navigating gravel roads, rocky trails, steep mountain sections and changing Himalayan terrain. Experienced guides, mechanical assistance and a 4x4 support vehicle accompany the expedition.

How many nights do riders spend in Lo Manthang?

Our 14-day Forbidden Kingdom Motorcycle Tour includes two nights in Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Upper Mustang. This allows riders time to explore the Chhoser Sky Caves, historic Buddhist monasteries, traditional Tibetan villages and surrounding Himalayan landscapes without rushing through this extraordinary destination.

What is the best time for an Upper Mustang Motorcycle Expedition?

he best time to ride Upper Mustang is April to June and September to October, when the weather is generally favourable and mountain views are spectacular. Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, making riding possible even during the summer monsoon, although approach roads can experience heavy rainfall and landslides.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to ride a motorcycle in Nepal?

International riders should carry a valid motorcycle driving licence from their home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP), where applicable. Your licence must cover the category of motorcycle you intend to ride. We recommend confirming the latest requirements before travelling to Nepal.

Can solo travellers join the Upper Mustang Motorcycle Tour?

Absolutely. Solo riders are welcome to join our scheduled group departures. You’ll ride alongside other adventure motorcyclists, accompanied by our experienced road captain and support crew. Single-room accommodation may be available at an additional cost.

How do international riders reach Pokhara for the expedition?

Most international riders arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu before taking a domestic flight or travelling by road to Pokhara. We recommend arriving at least a day before the expedition begins to allow for possible travel delays.

What happens if a motorcycle breaks down during the expedition?

Our expeditions travel with mechanical support and a dedicated 4x4 backup vehicle. Minor mechanical issues can often be addressed along the route, while more serious problems are managed according to the location, available equipment and road conditions. Our support team works to minimise disruption to the journey.

Can I upgrade or choose a different motorcycle?

The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is our standard expedition motorcycle. Alternative motorcycles may be available on selected departures, subject to availability, suitability for the route and any applicable upgrade charges. Contact our team before booking if you have a preferred motorcycle.

What happens if bad weather or road closures affect the itinerary?

Himalayan weather and mountain road conditions can change unexpectedly. If a route becomes unsafe or inaccessible, our expedition leader may adjust the itinerary, riding schedule or overnight stops. Rider safety always takes priority, and any necessary changes are communicated to the group.