Upper Mustang: Adventure in the Forbidden Kingdom

Today we enter the ancient Kingdom of Mustang, a majestic territory of rocks and canyons dominated by the highest summits in the world. The rocky, sandy tracks are often so steep and rugged that we’ll have to get off our bikes and push them past the obstacles, a humbling but empowering experience, which proves to be our most challenging riding day!

The track rises and softens today and leads us to the village of Dhakmar and its famous red cliffs. Then we head on to Ghar Gompa monastery, a real Tibetan gem, set at 4,000 m altitude. We spend the night at Tsarang, a traditional village dominated by the imposing red monastery and ancient palace.

Today’s a short leg but we finally reach Mustang’s historical capital. After one last pass, the fortified city appears as if it were a mirage on the plateau below. Entering Lo Manthang is an unforgettable moment, a true sense of accomplishment! After lunch, we let ourselves be guided by the smiling locals, exploring the ancient labyrinth of woven streets around the palace.

This morning, we head north to our final ascent: the Tibetan plateau and the Chinese border. This was the infamous "Kora La border", a strategic area during the Sino-Tibetan war between Tibetan people and Khampas, warriors in Mao's military forces until the 70s. On our way back, we visit Choser’s troglodyte caves, nestled into the cliff.

The riding difficulties we experienced on the way in are waiting for us on the way out today! It's hard to believe that we've used this track before - everything looks so different when you look to the south! Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, culminating at more than 8,000m, seem to be the monumental gate that separates Tibet from the Indian subcontinent. Once again, you and your bikes will be put to the test.

The descent to Kali Gandaki River offers a stunning morning show. We cross the river at the entrance of the impressive gorges winding upstream from Chele village, where 4x4 trucks drive to Tibet during winter when the water level is at its lowest. A few more miles and we can enjoy a hot shower and our host’s delicious cuisine in Kagbeni, one of Mustang’s most beautiful villages. We have a well-deserved break this afternoon.

We enjoy an early breakfast, then undertake a rocky desert track which clings to the mountainside. The view of Dhaulagiri’s summit (more than 8,000 m) is impressive to the point of almost appearing unreal. We descend into the Kali Gandaki Valley on a short, beautiful stretch of asphalt road. As we approach Tukuche, we are greeted by the fir-tree forests of the Himalayan foothills.

We ride through rural, green Nepal, and landscapes change from one valley to the next. The winding road passes through traditional villages and terraced croplands. The last miles are exhilarating, and driving back into the city is dizzying. After the trip of a lifetime, it takes a bit of adjustment as we find ourselves back in civilisation.

Very early morning departure for your transfer by private vehicle. You check-in at the hotel in the famous Thamel district, close to Durbar Square in the old town. You are free to spend the afternoon as you wish.

You are transferred to the airport according to your flight schedule, where our services end.