Road to Mustang Motorcycle Tour

After a short break we continue along smaller mountain roads descending toward the Pokhara Valley. Along the way we reach the peaceful Begnas Lake, located southeast of Pokhara. This quiet lakeside setting offers a perfect place to relax, enjoy lunch and take in the tranquil surroundings. Parts of today’s route include small gravel sections and narrow hillside roads, offering riders an early taste of the diverse terrain that defines this Nepal adventure motorcycle tour.

In the afternoon we arrive in Pokhara, widely considered the most beautiful city in Nepal and the gateway to the Annapurna mountain range. Situated directly on the shores of Phewa Lake, the city offers spectacular views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks rising dramatically above the valley. Our hotel is located near the lakeside area, just a short walk from the waterfront. In the evening you may choose to relax in one of the many cafés and restaurants along Lake Road, enjoy live music, or take a peaceful boat ride across the lake while the Annapurna peaks glow in the evening light.

Pokhara’s relaxed atmosphere makes it one of the most pleasant stops of the entire Himalayan motorcycle expedition.

Distance covered: approx. 130 km

From Jomsom we continue along the valley floor toward Kagbeni, a fascinating medieval village located at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Jhong rivers. With its narrow alleys, mud-brick houses and ancient monasteries, Kagbeni marks the historic gateway to Upper Mustang. The strong Tibetan cultural influence is already clearly visible here. After a short break we leave the valley floor and begin the climb toward Muktinath, one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in the Himalayas. Situated at approximately 3,700 meters above sea level, Muktinath Temple is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, attracting pilgrims from Nepal and India throughout the year.
The temple complex is famous for its 108 sacred water spouts, where pilgrims perform ritual purification ceremonies. Nearby sacred ponds and the dramatic mountain surroundings give the site a powerful spiritual atmosphere. We visit the temple in the afternoon and observe pilgrims performing their rituals, while colorful prayer flags flutter in the mountain wind. Around the temple complex, holy men known as Babas sit in bright robes offering blessings to travelers and pilgrims alike.

Tonight we stay in the village of Muktinath, surrounded by the vast landscapes of the Mustang region at an altitude of about 3,710 meters. From here, the route will soon lead us into the remote highlands of Upper Mustang, one of the most fascinating regions of the entire Nepal motorcycle expedition.

Distance covered: approx. 100 km

One of today’s highlights is a visit to the famous Chhoser caves, also known as the Jhong cave complex. These ancient caves are carved high into the sandstone cliffs and are believed to be more than two thousand years old. Archaeologists suggest they were once used as dwellings, meditation retreats or burial chambers by early inhabitants of the Mustang region. Depending on local conditions and permits, we may also continue toward the Korala Pass, located at approximately 4,660 meters on the border between Nepal and Tibet. For centuries this high mountain pass served as an important trade route linking the Kingdom of Mustang with the Tibetan Plateau. Today it remains a remote and windswept frontier with dramatic views across the high Himalayan landscape.

On our return to Lo Manthang we occasionally encounter Tibetan nomad families living in traditional black yak-hair tents — a rare glimpse into a nomadic way of life that has changed little over generations. In the afternoon we explore the historic old town of Lo Manthang on foot. Behind the massive clay walls lie narrow streets, traditional houses and several important monasteries. Among the most notable are Jampa Lhakhang, often called the “House of Maitreya,” the impressive Thubchen Gompa with its ancient murals, and Chodey Gompa, which remains an active center of Buddhist practice.

The former Royal Palace of Mustang still dominates the skyline of the city, reminding visitors of the region’s long and fascinating history as an independent Himalayan kingdom. The evening is spent in the quiet atmosphere of Lo Manthang, sharing dinner and reflecting on a day spent exploring one of the most remote and culturally unique regions of the Himalayas.

Distance covered: approx. 80 km (roundtrip)

By the afternoon we reach Tatopani, a riverside village well known for its natural hot springs. Depending on time and interest, riders can relax in the warm mineral pools — a welcome break after several days of riding through the mountains. The route then continues south toward the Baglung and Kushma region, where the Kali Gandaki Gorge becomes especially dramatic. Here we encounter one of the most impressive engineering structures in Nepal — a spectacular suspension bridge stretching high above the river valley.

This bridge is among the longest suspension bridges in Nepal, offering breathtaking views deep into the gorge below. Those who wish can cross the bridge on foot for unforgettable photos and a thrilling perspective over the valley. Finally, we cross a narrow suspension bridge leading to our hotel, located high above the river. From here we enjoy wide views across the rugged landscapes of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, bringing another

Distance covered: approx. 130 km

Today’s ride is one of the longer stages of the journey. The road alternates between winding hill routes and broader connecting roads, passing through river valleys, terraced farmland and rural settlements that offer a glimpse into everyday life in the Nepalese countryside. As we approach the lowlands, the landscape begins to change noticeably. The air becomes warmer and more humid, vegetation becomes dense and tropical, and wide river plains replace the steep mountain terrain.

By the afternoon we arrive in the region of Chitwan National Park, Nepal’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its extraordinary biodiversity. Our destination is Sauraha, a small town located at the edge of the national park and the main gateway for wildlife safaris. Here a completely new chapter of our Himalayan motorcycle adventure begins. After the high mountain deserts of Upper Mustang, the lush jungles and wildlife habitats of Chitwan feel like a different world — a remarkable contrast within the same journey.

Distance covered: approx. 180 km

By the afternoon we arrive back in Kathmandu, where the remainder of the day is free to explore the cultural highlights of the city. Those interested in sightseeing may visit some of the most famous landmarks of the Kathmandu Valley, many of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples on the banks of the Bagmati River; the monumental Boudhanath Stupa, an important center of Tibetan Buddhism; and the beautifully preserved historic city of Bhaktapur, known for its temples, pagodas and traditional Newari architecture.

In the evening we gather for a farewell dinner together in Kathmandu, celebrating the incredible journey from the high deserts of Upper Mustang to the jungles of Chitwan National Park. The evening offers a chance to share memories of the adventure before our Nepal motorcycle expedition comes to an end.

Distance covered: approx. 160 km