Upper Mustang & Thorong La Pass Dirt Bike Expedition

Adventure Overlooking Snowy Peaks

Overview of Upper Mustang & Thorong La Pass Dirt Bike Expedition

Experience one of Nepal's most demanding and rewarding motorcycle adventures on this 11-day Upper Mustang & Thorong La Pass Dirt Bike Expedition. Designed exclusively for experienced off-road riders, this expedition combines the remote landscapes of Upper Mustang with a challenging high-altitude summit attempt toward the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416 m).

Beginning in Kathmandu, the journey follows Nepal's scenic highways to Pokhara before entering the Kali Gandaki Valley. Ride through dramatic gorges, traditional Thakali villages, and the windswept Himalayan desert to reach the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang—the cultural heart of the former Kingdom of Mustang. Along the way, you'll explore centuries-old monasteries, Tibetan-influenced settlements, and some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the Himalayas.

After acclimatizing in Lo Manthang, the expedition continues to Muktinath, the starting point for the ultimate challenge. From here, riders attempt to ascend toward Thorong La Pass via rugged alpine trails featuring loose rock, steep climbs, river crossings, and high-altitude terrain. Every expedition is different, and the highest point reached depends on weather, trail conditions, snow levels, and rider safety. Whether reaching the summit or turning back when conditions demand, the experience delivers an authentic Himalayan enduro adventure unlike any other.

Covering approximately 1,050 km across paved highways, gravel roads, rocky mountain tracks, and technical off-road trails, this expedition offers the perfect balance of cultural discovery, breathtaking scenery, and extreme adventure. Riders will encounter towering peaks including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and the Mustang Himal while exploring one of Nepal's most remote and restricted regions.

If you're looking for an expedition that pushes your riding skills, rewards you with unforgettable Himalayan landscapes, and takes you beyond the ordinary tourist routes, the Upper Mustang & Thorong La Pass Dirt Bike Expedition is one of Nepal's ultimate motorcycle experiences.


Important: The Thorong La summit attempt is weather and safety dependent. Snowfall, landslides, trail conditions, and rider capability may require turning back before reaching the pass. This flexibility is a normal and expected part of genuine high-altitude motorcycle expeditions.

Trip Facts

Trip Duration:11 Days
Trip Grade:strenuous
Best Season:March, August
Elevation:5416 Meters
Accommodation:Hotel, Lodges
Transportation:Bike

Trip Highlights

  • 11-day high-altitude Himalayan dirt bike expedition
  • Explore the remote and restricted region of Upper Mustang
  • Ride to the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang
  • Acclimatization day with visits to caves, monasteries, and traditional Mustang villages
  • Challenge yourself with a summit attempt toward Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)
  • Ride through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the world's deepest gorges
  • Experience technical off-road riding on gravel, rocky tracks, and mountain trails
  • Spectacular views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and surrounding Himalayan peaks
  • Visit the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath Temple
  • Guided expedition with experienced local support, logistics, and safety management


Note: The Thorong La summit ride is highly dependent on weather, trail conditions, and rider safety. Snow, landslides, or other hazards may require turning back before the pass. This flexibility is standard practice for high-altitude motorcycle expeditions.

Detailed Itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, meet our team and transfer to your hotel. In the evening, attend an expedition briefing covering the route, permits, safety procedures, and motorcycle inspection. This is also an opportunity to meet fellow riders and make final preparations before the adventure begins.

Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Welcome Dinner

Cost Includes

  • Airport arrival and departure transfers in Kathmandu
  • 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (twin-sharing)
  • 3 nights hotel accommodation in Pokhara (twin-sharing)
  • 4 nights lodge accommodation during the expedition (twin-sharing)
  • Daily breakfast throughout the trip
  • Welcome dinner in Kathmandu
  • Experienced English-speaking motorcycle expedition guide
  • Support mechanic throughout the expedition
  • Support vehicle for luggage and emergency assistance (where road access permits)
  • Dirt Bike
  • Fuel for the expedition motorcycle
  • Motorcycle maintenance and basic spare parts
  • Comprehensive Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • All required local government and road permits
  • First aid kit and emergency oxygen cylinder
  • Satellite communication or emergency communication device (where available)
  • Expedition briefing and motorcycle inspection
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • Government taxes and service charges

Cost Excludes

  • International airfare to and from Nepal
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • Travel and high-altitude rescue insurance (mandatory)
  • Lunches, dinners, snacks, and beverages unless stated
  • Personal riding gear (helmet, jacket, pants, boots, gloves, goggles, etc.)
  • Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, internet, drinks, souvenirs, etc.)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Tips for guides, mechanic, and support staff
  • Emergency evacuation or helicopter rescue costs
  • Medical treatment and hospitalization
  • Motorcycle damage caused by rider negligence or accidents (security deposit may apply)
  • Additional accommodation or transport due to weather delays, landslides, road closures, or unforeseen circumstances
  • Costs arising from itinerary changes caused by natural disasters, political events, or force majeure
  • Any services not specifically mentioned under Included


Faqs

No. This expedition is designed for riders with previous off-road or adventure motorcycle experience. The route includes rocky trails, river crossings, loose gravel, steep climbs, and high-altitude riding.