NEPAL'S UPPER MUSTANG: THE FORBIDDEN KINGDOM

SÉLECTIONNEZ VOS DATES



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DURATION

12 Days / 11 Nights

STARTING FROM

Rider 3070 €
Pillion Unadvised

LEVEL

Challenging

SEASONS

April/May/October

DISTANCE

1015 km


ABOUT THE DESTINATION

Exploring a country's landscape on a motorbike is the ideal way to accomplish it, and Nepal has a wide variety of terrain. Nepal is also the place where the ice-cold Himalayas meet the lush green tropical Terai lowlands. Nepal has been a favorite motorcycle destination in recent years due to its spectacular Himalayan vistas, colorful and dynamic cultures, historic temples and monasteries, jungle safaris in pursuit of the elusive tiger, and more. This trip takes you through true Tibetan towns, barren hills, eroding cliffs, and Moraine in the rain shadow region of the Himalayas' wind-swept desert scenery, with views of unbelievable gorges, high passes, and magnificent panoramas. Nepal draws around 200,000 hikers each year. Only around 4,300 of them opt to visit the "Upper Mustang" region, which is a treeless and desolate final bastion of Tibetan culture. Mustang was a distinct kingdom from the rest of the country until 1950. Non-Nepali travelers were only allowed to visit in 1991, and access to the Upper Mustang is still extremely limited. Trekking in the Upper Mustang differs significantly from trekking in other regions of Nepal. It is a true luxury, but one that comes at a cost (a dear price). Trekking in Mustang is similar to trekking in Tibet in certain ways. Obtaining a Trekking Permit to the Upper Mustang allows you to go across a semi-arid desert and see colorful scenery.


TRIP ITINERARY

Meet the agent at the airport who will greet you with a name board and transport you to the hotel. At the hotel, guests will be greeted with a welcome drink and allotted rooms. 5:00 p.m. The Road Captain greets you and gives you a tour of the Royal Enfield Motorcycles. A briefing on road safety and the optimum pace to ride on Nepalese roads will be followed by a question-and-answer session. Following the briefing, everyone will be given the keys to their motorcycles and taken on a spin about town to acquaint themselves with them. At 18:00 hours, a quick tour briefing will be held in the hotel lobby. After that, go to a traditional Nepali restaurant for a welcome supper.

We ride out of the valley at the cross-section of the ring road at Balkhu after breakfast and then head off for Pharping 19 Km, just before Pharping, to navigate the traffic of Kathmandu city. The route twists and turns as we negotiate traffic and bike to Kulekhani, 23 kilometers away. We stop at a tea store in Kulekhani for some tea. After a tea break, you'll go on a ride to Sauraha, where the route narrows and twists. On the plus side, you'll be able to take in stunning vistas of woods, bazaars, and small communities. You'll arrive in Bhaise after cycling downwards. When you get at Bhaise, turn right, cross the bridge, and continue on your way to Hetauda. We pause for lunch in Hetauda before continuing on to Chitwan along the east-west route. Chitwan's primary attraction is the Chitwan National Park. It has a subtropical climate and is located in central Nepal's inner Terai area. The park covers 932 square kilometers and was included on the World Heritage List in 1984. One-horned rhinoceros, sloth bears, wild boars, wild bison, deer, monkeys, crocodiles, and leopards, as well as over 400 species of birds, reptiles, and other smaller animals, call the park home. You will check into your hotel when you arrive in Sauraha.

You'll begin your journey to Pokhara after breakfast. You must first retrace your steps till you reach the Rhino Junction. From here, you'll join the East-West Route, which is the main highway. When you reach the Rhino Junction, turn left and ride till you reach Narayangarh. After arriving at Narayangarh, turn right at the major crossroads and ride for 45 kilometers till you reach Mugling. Lunch will be supplied on the way. When you get to Mugling Junction, you'll see that the roadway splits. The one on the east will take you to Kathmandu, while the one on the west will take you to Pokhara. After crossing the bridge, bike along the Marshyangdi River for a bit before gradually ascending through terraced agricultural regions and little roadside towns. Views of the Annapurna Mountain range, including the iconic Machapuchhre, may be found on the outskirts of Pokhara (Fish Tail Mountain). Pokhara sits at an elevation of 884 meters above sea level. It is 700 meters lower in height than Kathmandu Valley. The ages-old temples and other heritages that make Kathmandu distinctive, and the mountains that make Pokhara remarkable, are comparable. The Himalayas and the spectacular 8000 m. peaks of the Annapurna range are only a few foothills away from Pokhara. With its crystal-clear lakes and a plethora of other tourist attractions, Pokhara is a vacationer's dream.

After an early breakfast, depart Pokhara and travel along the Baglung Highway to Beni (70 kilometers). This portion of the road offers spectacular mountain views, lovely terraced farmlands, and the chance to stroll across one of Nepal's famed suspension bridges. Leave the main highway at Mal Dhunga and take a dusty graveled route all the way to Beni, which is located at an altitude of 799 meters on the junction of the Kali Gandaki and Myagdi rivers. The route is unpaved and dusty from here, with potholes in various places. The unpaved, graveled hard route is a significant challenge for drivers, and the infrequent river crossings make it much more challenging. Ascend gently into the world's deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki. The landscape continues to vary with each twist and curve until you reach Kalopani.

Set off on the trek after an early breakfast, following the Kali Gandaki River and passing through villages. The vistas of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Tukuche (6920 m), and the Nilgiri ranges are spectacular along the way (7061m). As we travel between the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Mountain ranges, the landscape changes dramatically from lush green woods to barren deserts. It takes time to become accustomed to your surroundings. Continue on the sandy, graveled "off" road towards Jomsom, going past minor towns and apple orchards. The ride ahead is difficult, but the stunning sights of the rocky topography, beautiful flowing waterfalls, orange and apple orchards, scattered wayside communities, and ancient Buddhist monasteries make it "One Hell of a Ride." The restricted Upper Mustang region's entry point is at Kagbeni. Restricted area permits are examined here at the Police Check Post; once the permissions procedure is completed, we turn northwest and continue our ride to Chhuksang Village.

Following breakfast, meet up with the rest of the crew and continue the journey to Lo-Manthang. We carry on to Ghami after crossing Gelling. We bike to Lo-Manthang after passing Ghami. To go to Tsarang, we must turn right as soon as we leave Ghami. Continue the adventurous ride to Lo-Manthang through Big Chorten and Lo Dry La River once you arrive at Tsarang. Lo-Manthang is a medieval walled city located north of the main Himalayan range on the Tibetan Plateau. The old Kingdom of Mustang, which is now known as the Kingdom of Lo or "Upper Mustang," had Lo-Manthang as its capital. Ame Pal, who oversaw the construction of the city wall and many of the still-standing monuments in the early 15th century, created Lo Manthang in 1380. The monarchy was declared defunct by the Nepalese government on October 7, 2008. Jigme Dorje Palbar Bista (born c. 1933), the last king (raja or yellow), is the direct descendant of the medieval monarchy that dates back 25 generations to 1380. Ethnic Lhobas make up a significant portion of the population. We check into the lodge when we arrive at Lo-Manthang, and the remainder of the evening is free to relax and tour the kingdom of Lo-Manthang.

The major temples inside the walls are Champa Lakhang (God House), which houses the massive 45-foot statue of Maitreya, the future Buddha, the red Thugchen Gompa, which has several large images of Sakyamuni, Avalokitesvara, and Maitreya, and the Sakya sect's Chyodi Gompa, which has several monks in residence and is the site of the annual Mani Rimdu festival, known as 't All of them are said to have been erected around 1420. Despite its appearance of filth, Lo Manthang is a rich city with a strong feeling of community. Despite the fact that the inhabitants are known as Lobas or people from Lo, they are Tibetans with sophisticated cultures and economies. We get ready for the day's expedition after a leisurely breakfast. Today we will visit one of the most intriguing prehistoric sites in this unknown valley, including the famed Chhoser Caves, breathtaking scenery, and the Nymphu monastery erected on the cliffs. We can also stop at the Namgyal hamlet and monastery on our way back. As you approach the Chhoser town, you'll notice a number of caves in the cliff face that was previously home to the prehistoric Lobas and monks. We return to Lo after the sightseeing trip for a nice lunch. The remainder of the day is free to relax or explore the walled settlement.

We ride back to Kagbeni after breakfast, following the same path. On the way, we stop for lunch at a monastery. At an elevation of 2840 meters, Kagbeni serves as a gateway to Upper Mustang. It's an intriguing medieval town with tightly packed mud-brick homes, gloomy lanes, and huge chortens. The settlement is surrounded by a little green oasis, which is dominated by a red monastery. The town has a medieval appearance, yet it has all of the contemporary conveniences that a tourist requires. There is also a Monastery in this hamlet. The monks here wear yellow hats and belong to the Gelup Sect. They collect money for the school's upkeep. Upon arrival in Kagbeni, the restricted Upper Mustang region's departure entrance point. Restricted area permissions are excited here at the Police Checkpoint; after completing the permits procedure, head northeast and continue our bike to Muktinath's "Place of Salvation." We check into the guest house when we arrive at Muktinath. Late in the evening, go to Muktinath Temple. At an altitude of 3,710 meters, at the foot of the Thorong La, it is a sacred location for both Hindus and Buddhists (5416 m Pass).

After breakfast, tour the Muktinath temple and village before continuing your journey to Jomsom. Jomsom is around 22 kilometers away. We finish the paperwork when we get in Jomsom and then ride another 25 kilometers to Tatopani through Marpha Village, which takes approximately 12 hours. Marpha village sightseeing excursion. Marpha is situated at a height of 2670 meters. Apple orchards and apple products are well-known in Marpha. The flat roofs and narrow paved lanes and passages of this huge Thakali hamlet are typical of Thak Khola architecture. There is also a monastery there. Marpha is a charming stone-lined village that has managed to endure the passage of time by catering to hikers and visitors. After your Marpha sightseeing excursions have a bite to eat at a local restaurant or resort. Continue riding for another 2 hours to Tatopani after lunch. The landscape continues to vary with each twist and curve until you reach Tatopani. "Tato" means "hot," and "Pani" means "water." The hot springs gave the area its name, and it is a popular spot for travelers to unwind and soak their tired bodies in the natural hot springs. Check into the Lodge when you arrive at Tatopani. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the hamlet, including a peaceful swim in the local Hot Springs.

It's a welcome relief to be able to tackle the most difficult part of the travel first thing in the morning. Descend to Jaleswor, a little town by the river, and then carry on to Beni. After a brief pit stop, continue down the river route for approximately an hour until you reach the major highway at Maldhunga, then continue on the road to Pokhara until you reach Khatte Khola, We continue the route downwards to Khatte Khola, where we meet the major Pokhara-Beni highway. We turn right and follow the road to Lakeside Pokhara. Lunch in Pokhara and free time to ride about the city or participate in adventure activities like paragliding, bungee jumping, ultralight flying, zip-lining, boating, and sightseeing.

After that, we'll maneuver our way out of Pokhara's traffic. We make our way to Mugling. So, since we're riding from Pokhara, we won't go south from Mugling; instead, we'll stay on the same route all the way to Kathmandu. Take a break for lunch along the road and continue riding to Kathmandu. Check into the hotel when you arrive in Kathmandu.

You will be transferred to the airport for your international flight according to your flight timing.

TECHNICAL INFORMATIONS


  • Departure : Kathmandu Airport
  • End : Kathmandu Airport
  • Average Daily Ride Hours: 5-6
  • Departure guarantee from 6 participants
  • Baggage transfer by vehicle.

INCLUSIONS


  • All airports transfer
  • All accommodations in double/twin rooms.
  • Dinner & Breakfast
  • Royal Enfield Himalayan Bike 410CC
  • One backup vehicle for luggages
  • Experience English speaking Guide on own motorcycle
  • Experience motorcycle mechanic
  • Special Permit to travel in Upper Mustang of USD 500.00 per person
  • ACAP and TIMS permit fee
  • 3 star hotel in Kathmandu & pokhara
  • Upper Mustang in Guesthouse& Lodge
  • All toll tax for the bikes and the backup vehicle and also the government taxes

EXCLUSIONS


  • International flight
  • Lunch
  • Personal Expensis
  • Tips for the team
  • Monuments entrance fees
  • Motor bike equipments
  • Drinks