Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking

Q: 1. How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking trip?

This trip is considered challenging, mainly due to steep climbs, rocky trails, and high altitude. Previous mountain biking experience and good fitness are highly recommended.

Q: 3. What type of bike is suitable for this trip?

A full-suspension mountain bike is ideal, especially for rocky climbs and downhill sections. If you do not have a bike, rental options are available in Kathmandu.

Q: 4. What is the maximum altitude on this tour?

The highest point is Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) one of the highest passes in the world reachable by bike.

Q: 6. When is the best time for Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking?

The best seasons are: Spring (March–May) Autumn (September–November)These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and ideal trail conditions.

Q: 7. What kind of accommodation can I expect?

Accommodation consists of: Standard tourist hotels in Kathmandu & Pokhara Teahouse lodges along the biking routeRooms are simple but comfortable, with basic facilities.

Q: 8. What kind of meals are provided during the trip?

During the biking days, all meals breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided. Meals typically include Nepali, Tibetan, and basic Western dishes.

Q: 10. How do we handle altitude sickness?

The itinerary includes proper acclimatization, especially in Manang. Our guides are trained to identify symptoms and will act immediately if any rider shows signs of altitude sickness.

The Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking Tour (13 Days) is one of Nepal’s most thrilling and scenic adventure journeys on two wheels.

Included/Exclude

Cost Includes

Airport pick-up and drop
3-star hotels in Kathmandu & Pokhara (BB basis)
Teahouse accommodation during the biking trip
All meals during trekking days (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Professional mountain biking guide & assistant
Porter(s) for logistics & bike carrying (where needed)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
TIMS Card
Domestic flights (Jomsom–Pokhara)
All surface transfers as per itinerary
First aid kit & safety equipment

Cost Excludes

International flights
Nepal visa fee
Travel insurance (mandatory for high altitude)
Mountain bike (rental available on request)
Personal gear & equipment
Extra meals in Kathmandu/Pokhara
Alcoholic drinks & personal expenses
Tips for guide & porters
Any services not mentioned in “Includes”

Accomodation
Tea House & Hotel
Tour Availability
Availability
Wifi
Availabe
Maximum Altitude
5,416 m/17,764 ft
Guide
Guided
Language
English
Arrival City
Kathmandu
Departure City
Kathmandu
Best Season
Feb-Jun, Sep-Dec
Meals
Included

Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking Overview

The Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking Tour (13 Days) is one of Nepal’s most thrilling and scenic adventure journeys on two wheels. This ride takes you around the world-famous Annapurna massif, crossing high Himalayan passes, riding through lush valleys, ancient villages, and dramatic desert landscapes. The highlight of the trip is crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) a rewarding challenge for every adventure cyclist.

From the subtropical forests of Besisahar to the windswept deserts of Manang and Mustang, this biking adventure blends culture, breathtaking scenery, and technical riding trails. Riders experience diverse terrain including jeep tracks, single tracks, downhill sections, and high-altitude climbs.

Perfect for adventure lovers, this trip combines physical challenge with pure Himalayan thrill.

Tour Highlights

Ride one of the world’s most iconic trekking routes
Conquer Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) on a mountain bike
Experience diverse landscapes from subtropical forests to alpine deserts
Explore Manang, Muktinath & Jomsom
Some of Nepal’s most scenic downhills & technical sections

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport, you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, you’ll attend a trip briefing followed by a bike check to ensure everything is ready for the adventure.

Day 02 :

Drive to Besisahar and Ride to Bhulbhule

After breakfast, you’ll drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, enjoying scenic countryside views. Once in Besisahar, bikes will be assembled for a warm-up ride to Bhulbhule along the Marsyangdi River.

Day 03 :

Bhulbhule to Jagat

Today’s ride continues along a mix of jeep tracks and forest trails. You will pass small settlements, cross suspension bridges, and follow the river upstream toward Jagat, surrounded by lush hills and waterfalls.

Day 04 :

Jagat to Dharapani

The trail becomes more adventurous as you ride through rocky sections and charming villages like Chamje. The route gradually climbs as the landscape opens toward Dharapani, a beautiful stop along the Annapurna Circuit.

Day 05 :

Dharapani to Chame

The ride continues through forests and peaceful trails with excellent views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. The terrain is a mix of steady climbs and smooth riding sections until you reach Chame, the district headquarters of Manang.

Day 06 :

Chame to Pisang

Today offers a beautiful ride through pine forests, narrow gorges, and open valleys. One of the highlights is riding below the dramatic Paungda Danda rock face before reaching the picturesque village of Pisang.

Day 07 :

Pisang to Manang

The journey toward Manang provides breathtaking Himalayan views at every turn. Riders can choose the scenic Upper Pisang route for better mountain views. Upon reaching Manang, explore the ancient monasteries and enjoy the high-altitude desert scenery.

Day 08 :

Acclimatization Day in Manang

A rest day is essential for adapting to altitude. You can enjoy a short ride to nearby viewpoints such as Khangsar or Praken Gompa, or simply explore the village and relax.

Day 09 :

Manang to Yak Kharka

Leaving Manang, the trail climbs slowly toward Yak Kharka. This ride introduces more high-altitude terrain with open landscapes, yak pastures, and gentle uphill sections.

Day 10 :

Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi

This is a shorter yet challenging ride where the air becomes thinner and trails narrower. After reaching Thorong Phedi, you’ll prepare for the next day's major ascent.

Day 11 :

Thorong La Pass to Muktinath

A big day! You’ll start early with a combination of pushing and carrying the bike up toward Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). Reaching the top is an unforgettable achievement. The reward is a long, thrilling downhill ride all the way to Muktinath.

Day 12 :

Muktinath to Jomsom and Fly/Drive to Pokhara

Enjoy a smooth downhill ride from Muktinath to Jomsom through Mustang’s windswept landscapes. From Jomsom, you can either fly to Pokhara (weather permitting) or enjoy a scenic drive.

Day 13 :

Return to Kathmandu

In the morning, you will fly or drive back to Kathmandu. The trip ends with free time for shopping, relaxing, or strolling around Thamel before your final departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand all

1. How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking trip?

This trip is considered challenging, mainly due to steep climbs, rocky trails, and high altitude. Previous mountain biking experience and good fitness are highly recommended.

2. Do I need mountain biking experience for this tour?

Yes, you should have experience riding off-road trails and handling uneven, rocky, or technical terrain. Beginners may find some sections too tough.

3. What type of bike is suitable for this trip?

A full-suspension mountain bike is ideal, especially for rocky climbs and downhill sections. If you do not have a bike, rental options are available in Kathmandu.

4. What is the maximum altitude on this tour?

The highest point is Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) one of the highest passes in the world reachable by bike.

5. Is it safe to cross Thorong La Pass on a mountain bike?

Yes, it is safe with proper guidance and acclimatization. Some sections require you to push or carry the bike, especially near the pass. Our guides ensure your safety at all times.

6. When is the best time for Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking?

The best seasons are:

Spring (March–May)
Autumn (September–November)
These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and ideal trail conditions.

7. What kind of accommodation can I expect?

Accommodation consists of:

Standard tourist hotels in Kathmandu & Pokhara
Teahouse lodges along the biking route
Rooms are simple but comfortable, with basic facilities.

8. What kind of meals are provided during the trip?

During the biking days, all meals breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided. Meals typically include Nepali, Tibetan, and basic Western dishes.

9. Will there be a support team during the ride?

Yes. A professional biking guide and porters/support staff will assist you. On challenging sections, the team helps with carrying the bikes if necessary.

10. How do we handle altitude sickness?

The itinerary includes proper acclimatization, especially in Manang. Our guides are trained to identify symptoms and will act immediately if any rider shows signs of altitude sickness.

11. Can beginners join this trip?

Beginners without prior mountain biking experience on rugged trails are not recommended. You should be comfortable with long uphill climbs and technical descents.

12. What permits are required?

You need two permits:

ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
TIMS Card
Both are included in the package.

14. Do I need to bring my own biking gear?

We recommend bringing your helmet, gloves, knee/elbow pads, riding shoes, and personal gear. Bikes can be rented if needed.

15. Is the downhill ride from Thorong La safe?

Yes, but riders must be cautious. The descent is long and can be technical. Guides provide instructions, and you can walk your bike when needed.

Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking

Duration

Group Size

Tour Type

Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking