Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking Tour

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The adventurous Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking Tour takes you through the heart of the Annapurna region, combining Himalayan landscapes with cultural highlights. Starting from Kathmandu, the journey follows scenic highways to Besisahar and gradually ascends through Khudi, Chamje, and Thonje into the Annapurna highlands. Riding past pine forests, waterfalls, and mountain villages, you reach Chame and the Tibetan-influenced town of Manang, with an excursion to the stunning Ice Lake (4,600 m). The tour then continues to Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi before crossing the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), the highest point of the circuit. After descending, you explore the sacred site of Muktinath and the charming apple village of Marpha, before riding down to Beni and Pokhara. The trip ends with leisure in Pokhara and a return to Kathmandu, blending thrilling off-road motorbiking with Himalayan panoramas, ancient monasteries, and unique local culture.

Trip Facts
Country
Nepal
Duration
13 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Max. Altitude
5416 meters
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Cycle ride
Accomodation
Hotels / Lodges
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Best Time
Spring & Autumn

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking Tour 

  • Epic mountain biking adventure across the legendary Annapurna Circuit
  • Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) – one of the highest rideable passes in the world
  • Spectacular views of Annapurna I–IV, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak & Lamjung Himal
  • Ride through diverse landscapes: subtropical forests, alpine valleys, and Mustang’s arid terrain
  • Experience authentic Gurung, Thakali & Tibetan-influenced cultures
  • Mix of single tracks, off-road trails, dirt roads, and Himalayan jeep tracks
  • Encounters with yaks, horses, prayer flags, monasteries, and stupas
  • Acclimatization day in Manang for safer high-altitude riding
  • Relax at Tatopani natural hot springs after the high-pass crossing
  • Visit Marpha village, famous for apple orchards and Thakali culture
  • Cycle along the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world
  • Finish the adventure in Pokhara, Nepal’s lakeside paradise

The Annapurna Circuit Mountain Bicycle Tour is a challenging high-altitude adventure designed for experienced and physically fit riders. The route includes long riding days, steep ascents, technical off-road sections, and extended hike-a-bike segments, especially near Thorong La Pass. Riders should be comfortable cycling for 5–7 hours a day and have prior mountain biking experience at altitude.

Outline Itinerary

Itinerary
Day 01:Arrival in Kathmandu
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 02:Kathmandu - Besisahar (760 m) - Khudi / Bhulbhule (840 m)
Max Altitude
840m / 2,755ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 03:Khudi – Chamje (1430 m) – Thonje (1900 m)
Max Altitude
1,900m / 6,233ft
Walking/Hiking
Ride
Itinerary
Day 04:Thonje – Koto/Chame (2670 m)
Max Altitude
2,670m / 8,759ft
Walking/Hiking
Ride
Itinerary
Day 05:Koto/Chame – Manang (3540 m)
Max Altitude
3,540m / 11,614ft
Walking/Hiking
Ride
Itinerary
Day 06:Manang Acclimatization (3540 m)
Max Altitude
3,540m / 11,614ft
Walking/Hiking
Ride
Itinerary
Day 07:Manang - Yak Kharka (4050 m) - Thorang Phedi (4450 m)
Max Altitude
4,450m / 14,599ft
Walking/Hiking
Ride
Itinerary
Day 08:Thorang Phedi - Thorang La Pass (5416 m) - Muktinath (3710 m)
Max Altitude
5,416m / 17,769ft
Walking/Hiking
Ride
Itinerary
Day 09:Muktinath – Marpha (2650 m) - Tatopani
Max Altitude
2,650m / 8,694ft
Walking/Hiking
Ride
Itinerary
Day 10:Cycling Tatopani - Beni (900 m) – Drive Pokhara (820 m)
Max Altitude
900m / 2,952ft
Walking/Hiking
Ride
Itinerary
Day 11:Pokhara
Max Altitude
820m / 2,690ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 12:Pokhara - Kathmandu (1350 m)
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 13:Departure from Kathmandu
Max Altitude
-
Walking/Hiking
-

Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking Tour Detailed Itinerary

Starts: Kathmandu
Ends: Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our correspondent who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Once checked in, we will arrange a pre-trip meeting where we will brief in short about the trek, answer any queries you have and meet your trekking guide as well. After the short brief, your guide willmake sure if you have all the necessary gears for Annapurna Mountain Biking tour. After that, you can relax and spend rest of the day at your leisure. Stay overnight at Hotel.

After an early breakfast, drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, the traditional gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. The scenic drive follows the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers, passing terraced hills and rural villages. From Besisahar, after having lunch - cycling begins on a mix of dirt roads and trails to Khudi or Bhulbhule, offering the first taste of Himalayan riding.
Cycling distance: Approx. 15–20 km / Rideable 99%
Total Hours: 2-3 hours
Overnight: Lodge

After having breakfast in the early morning, we will gear up ourselves to start the bicycle tour to Jagat. As we begin the ride, we will ride along the Marsyangdi River through lush forests, some off-road trials, pass through the majestic waterfalls, and different Gurung villages. The trail includes gradual climbs and technical sections as you pass through Tal and reach Chamje. From here, continue riding to the quieter village of Thonje, enjoying dramatic waterfalls and narrow gorges. After approx. 36 km ride of about 6 hours, we will reach Thonje via Jagat, Chamje and Dharapani. Almost 99% of the road is rideable. Stay overnight at Lodge.
Cycling distance: Approx. 36 km / Rideable 99%
Total hours: about 6 hours
Overnight: Lodge

After having breakfast in the early morning, we will begin our ride to Chame. The trail enters a more alpine environment as you ride past Dharapani and Bagarchhap, influenced by Tibetan culture. You start to see the amazing views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II arriving in Koto or Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. We will ride via off road for approx. 16 km which takes about 4 hours to reach there. On the way we will pass through Bagarchhap, Timang and Koto to reach Chame. Almost 99% of the road is rideable. Stay overnight at Lodge.
Cycling distance: approx. 16 km / Rideable 99%
Total hours: about 4 hours
Overnight: Lodge

After having breakfast in the early morning, we will begin our ride to Manang. This is one of the most scenic riding days.

We will ride through the uphill dense forests of pine along with the spectacular views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. We will also pass through the beautiful settlement of Dikurpokhari along the ride and pass through the small Gurung and Thakali villages of Pisang. Then after we will ride towards Manang. We can observe beautiful view of Himalayas, Stupa, horses, yaks and temple. Today’s ride will be of about 31 km which takes about 6 hours. On the way we can experience culture and Himalayan lifestyle. As we reach Manang, we can explore around Buddhist monasteries, hike to Gangapurna Lake (3500 m), and mountaineering school. Stay overnight at Lodge.
Cycling distance: approx. 31 km / Rideable 99%
Total hours: about 6 hours
Overnight: Lodge

A crucial acclimatization day. Today involves a challenging uphill ride and hike-a-bike sections to Ice Lake (Kicho Tal) or Gangapurna Lake or Buddhist Monastery.
Overnight: Lodge

After having breakfast in the early morning, we will begin our ride to Thorang Phedi. The ride becomes more demanding as altitude increases. You cycle through high-altitude pastures and barren landscapes, with yaks grazing along the trail. After Yak Kharka, the route climbs steadily to Thorong Phedi, the base camp for Thorong La Pass. Early rest is essential for the pass crossing next day.
Cycling distance: Approx. 15–20 km / Rideable 25%
Total hours: about 6-7 hours
Overnight: Lodge

Early morning, we will begin our ride from Thorang Phedi – Muktinath via Thorang La Pass. Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the tour. Start early for the ascent to Thorong La Pass, pushing and riding where possible. We can enjoy the most panoramic view from the Thorang La pass. Standing at one of the world’s highest cycling passes is a major achievement.

After the pass we have to ride steep downhill for some time then after downhill rideable way to Phedi and then to Muktinath. Muktinath is one of the holy temples where Hindu people go for salvation.
Cycling distance: Approx. 25 km / Rideable 50%
Total hours: about 6-7 hours
Overnight: Lodge

Today after having breakfast prepare to descend towards Marpha village via Jomsom, the capital of Mustang region. A thrilling downhill ride through Mustang’s arid landscape. Pass through Kagbeni and Jomsom, riding alongside the Kali Gandaki River, the world’s deepest gorge. Continue to Marpha, a charming Thakali village famous for its apple orchards, clean stone-paved streets, and monasteries. From Marpha ride towards Tatopani.
Cycling distance: Approx. 55–60 km / Rideable 99%
Total hours: Approx. 6–7 hours
Overnight: Lodge

Today after having breakfast prepare to ride till Beni and then continue to descend towards the city of Lakes, Pokhra. The ride downhill through Tatopani and Beni, passing hot springs, waterfalls, and traditional villages. Celebrate the completion of the Annapurna Circuit biking adventure in Pokhara.
Cycling distance: Approx. 22-30 km / Rideable 99%
Total hours: about 3-4 hours
Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara

A free day in Pokhara. You can relax by Phewa Lake, enjoy a boat ride, visit Davis Falls and the World Peace Pagoda, or simply rest after the long journey. Stay overnight at hotel. 

Today after having breakfast return to Kathmandu by tourist bus or domestic flight (extra charges). Enjoy scenic countryside views along the way. 
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Altitude Chart

Unit:

Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking Tour: Cost Details

Includes

  • Transfer from Airport – Hotel - airport including domestic airport
  • 2 Nights in Kathmandu at 3-star hotel including breakfast in BB plan
  • 2 Nights in Pokhara at 3-star hotel including breakfast in BB plan
  • Transfer in private jeep from Kathmandu – Besisahar including guide
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Transportation from Beni – Pokhara in private car including guide
  • Accommodation at lodge during the trek
  • All meal (breakfast, lunch and dinner with a cup of tea/coffee) during the trek
  • License holder, English speaking, Cycling Tour Guide during the tour/trek
  • Supporting staff (1 porter as required)
  • Transportation in tourist bus from Pokhara – Kathmandu
  • Guide’s all meal, accommodation, daily wages, transportation and insurance
  • Company service charge
  • All necessary government taxes
     

Excludes

  • Personal equipment
  • Personal and medical insurance
  • Supporting Van during the trek/ tour
  • Mountain bike rental and personal cycling gear (helmet, gloves, knee guards, etc.)
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara
  • All entrance fee in Kathmandu & Pokhara during the tour
  • Unforeseen expenses caused by uncontrollable circumstances such as flight cancellations or delays, blocked roads, weather conditions, natural disasters, altitude sickness, early termination or return of the program, etc.
  • Emergency Rescue evacuation by helicopter in case needed
  • Bar bills and beverage (like mineral water, coke, beer and etc.)
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips
  • Any other services not mentioned above

Dates & Availability

Our online briefing is designed to answer all your questions about the trek. We’ll go over the gear you’ll need (equipment checklist), provide a detailed itinerary, and explain what you can expect on the trail. After you book your trip, we’ll send you an email with available briefing dates and times. Once we receive your required documents, we’ll schedule and conduct the online trek briefing.

Essential Information

Trip Difficulty & Fitness Level

The Annapurna Circuit Mountain Bicycle Tour is a challenging high-altitude adventure designed for experienced and physically fit riders. The route includes long riding days, steep ascents, technical off-road sections, and extended hike-a-bike segments, especially near Thorong La Pass. Riders should be comfortable cycling for 5–7 hours a day and have prior mountain biking experience at altitude.

Altitude & Acclimatization

This tour reaches a maximum elevation of 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass. Proper acclimatization is essential for a safe and enjoyable journey. The itinerary includes a dedicated acclimatization day in Manang, allowing the body to adjust gradually. Our guides closely monitor participants for altitude-related symptoms and adjust pacing when necessary.

Trail & Riding Conditions

The cycling route is a mix of single tracks, dirt roads, jeep tracks, and rocky Himalayan trails. Lower sections offer lush forests and flowing trails, while higher elevations present rugged terrain, glacial valleys, and alpine desert landscapes. Certain high-altitude sections are only partially rideable and may require pushing or carrying the bike.

Best Time to Ride

The best seasons for Annapurna Circuit mountain biking are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These periods offer stable weather, clear mountain views, and optimal trail conditions. Winter riding is extremely cold at high passes, while the monsoon season can make trails slippery and unsafe.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation during the tour includes comfortable mountain lodges along the route and 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Lodges provide basic yet cozy facilities suitable for high-altitude regions. All meals during the cycling trek are included, featuring a mix of Nepali, Tibetan, and simple international dishes to support energy and recovery.

Cultural Experience

Beyond the physical challenge, this tour offers deep cultural immersion. Riders pass through traditional Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced villages, visit ancient monasteries, chortens, prayer wheels, and observe daily Himalayan life. Places like Manang, Muktinath, and Marpha reflect Nepal’s spiritual and cultural richness.

Safety & Support

Safety is a top priority throughout the tour. You will be accompanied by a licensed, English-speaking cycling guide experienced in high-altitude routes. Porters assist with logistics where required, and emergency procedures are in place for altitude sickness or unexpected conditions. Guides carry basic first-aid supplies and communication equipment.

Equipment & Bike Rental

Participants may bring their own mountain bikes or rent high-quality hardtail or full-suspension bikes in Kathmandu. Essential cycling gear such as helmets, gloves, knee guards, and warm layered clothing is required. Proper bike setup and inspection are conducted before the tour begins.

Who This Tour Is Ideal For?

This tour is best suited for adventure cyclists seeking a serious Himalayan challenge rather than a casual biking holiday. It is ideal for riders who want to combine physical endurance, cultural exploration, and dramatic mountain scenery in one of the world’s most iconic cycling routes.

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