ROAD 2 MM (MANANG & MUSTANG)

ITINERARY

Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu (1400m)
Upon arrival met by representative at the airport and later board the waiting vehicle and drive to Hotel Royal Singhi in a private deluxe a/c vehicle accompanied by the representative. Upon arrival at the hotel guest will be welcomed with the welcome drink and the rooms will be assigned.

15:00 Hrs. Met by the Road captain and introduction to the Royal Enfield Motorcycles. There will be a short briefing about the safety and the proper speed to ride on the roads followed by a question and answer session. After the briefing, everyone will be handed the keys to the motorcycles and taken for a ride around the city to familiarize with the motorcycles.
18:00 Hrs: A short briefing about the tour will be carried out at the hotel lobby.
19:00 Hrs: In the evening there will be a welcome dinner at an authentic Nepali restaurant with a cultural show.
Overnight at Hotel

Day 02: Ride from Kathmandu to Bandipur (4.45Hrs/150km/1030m)
After breakfast, we negotiate the traffic out of the Kathmandu city and ride out of the valley at the cross section of the ring road at Kalanki, continue south towards check post at Nagdhunga, just past Thankot. From here, the road ascends twisting and turning as we negotiate the traffic to Naubise, 26 kilometer marker (about 17 kilometers from Nagdhunga). Then the road becomes much wider and smoother. We continue riding and arrive at Mugling, the junction where the highway bifurcates, south to Chitwan and west to Pokhara. Head west crossing the bridge and follow the Marshyangdi River for about 25 kilometers to Dumre town. Continue for another ½ kilometer and then take the left turn to Bandipur Township.

This 8 kilometer ride is a pleasant one as we continue to ascend on a winding path. Upon arrival check into the hotel and rest of the afternoon is free to relax and explore around the Bandipur village. Bandipur is a picturesque town nestled in the himalayan foothills of Nepal, a land as famous for its natural beauty as for the hospitality of its people. Bandipur has been described as a natural view tower as one can view the spectacular panorama of the entire Annapurna range including the peaks of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu and Langtang from here. Apart from the stunning views of the Himalaya and the Marsyangdi Valley, a visit to the town is an opportunity to get a close look at Newar cultural life.
Overnight at Hotel
Day 03: Ride from Bandipur to Tatopani (6.30Hrs/175km/1190m)
After leisurely breakfast board the waiting vehicle and drive to Mallaj via Pokhara. Pokhara is approximately 85 kilometers from Bandipur.

Firstly, descend to the main highway near Dumre and then head west following the Marshyangdi River for a while and then slowly ascend through terraced agricultural lands and small road side villages. At the outskirts of Pokhara, we are greeted with views of the Annapurna Mountain range including the famous Fish Tail Mountain.
Pokhara stands at 827 meters above sea level and is an ideal vacationer’s paradise. With its crystal clear lakes, magnificent views of the Annapurna Mountain Range and its bustling but quaint lake side bazaar, it is a major tourist attraction. From here most of the treks starts for the western region and is a haven for people who wants to relax in this serene mountain beauty. The Annapurna mountain range is impressive by any standard and looming ahead to take the center stage is Machapucchre or “Fish Tail Mountain”, which gets its name from the shape of its summit and flanking it from either side are the great mountains of the range including Annapurna I (8091 m), the first 8000 m peak to be scaled in 1950. The range continues to meet the Lamjung Himal in the east while to its west looms the massive dome of Dhaulagiri (8161 m).
Leave Pokhara and ride towards Beni (approx. 83 Kilometers) on the Baglung Highway. This section of the ride provides fantastic mountain vistas, picturesque terraced farmlands and an opportunity to walk on one of Nepal’s famous suspension bridges. At Mal Dhunga, leave the main highway by taking the right trail and follow a dusty graveled path all the way to Beni, the district headquarters of Myagdi District in Dhaulagiri Zone. It is located on the confluence of Kali Ghandaki and Myagdi rivers at an altitude of 799 meters and is a bustling town lined with stores, restaurants, hotels and various government offices.
From here, the road is unpaved and dusty with potholes in several places. Unpaved, graveled rough road poses a real challenge for riders and makes it more difficult with the occasional river crossings.
Ascend gradually through the Kali Gandaki gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. There is a continuous change in the topography with every twist and turn until our arrival at Tatopani.
Tato” means ‘hot’ and “Pani” means ‘water’, a name earned courtesy of the hot springs and is a popular place for trekker’s to relax and dip their weary bodies in the natural hot springs.
Upon arrival at Tatopani, check into Hotel

Overnight at Hotel

Day 04: Ride from Tatopani to Muktinath (5Hrs/64km/3800m)
From here set out on the trail by following the Kali Gandaki River and passing the Thakali and Magar Villages to Dana (4750 ft. / 1446 m.) famous for its beautiful cascading waterfall. Steeply ascend to Ghasa (6600 ft. / 2012m) and continue the ride on a dusty and one of the difficult section of the road towards Jomsom via the Thakali villages of Tukuche and Kalopani. Enroute, there are fantastic views of the Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Tukuche (6920m), and Nilgiri (7061m).

As we pass between the Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna mountain range, a dramatic change in vegetation is witnessed from green forests, to dry arid desert. It takes gradual acclimatizing with the surrounding. The Thakali’s are the dominant tribe of the valley, related to the Gurung and Magars of the southern slopes. As soon as we pass Ghasa we will come to a place known as Dhaiku where we have to cross the bridge. After riding approximately for 10 kilometers via Lete we will come to our today’s destination Kalapani. Kalapani is scaled to be at 2530 meters. One can enjoy a very beautiful view of Mt. Nilgiri and Mt. Tukuche.
Upon Arrival at Kalopani take a short break.
After a break, set out on the trail by following the Kali Gandaki River and passing the Thakali and Magar Villages to Marpha and ride towards Jomsom through the dusty graveled “off” road passing smaller settlements and apple orchards. There are excellent views of Mt. Nilgiri and the Kali Gandaki River flows on the right hand side of the trail.
This day’s journey is a tough one but the scenic views of the rugged landscape, beautiful cascading waterfalls, orange and apple orchards, scattered roadside villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries all make it ‘One Hell of a Ride”.
Jomsom (2700 m) is more correctly known as Dzongsam or New Fort. It spreads over both the banks of the Kali Ghandaki. The towering peaks of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri form an attractive backdrop. Being the district headquarters, it is primarily an administrative and commercial center with government officials and merchants rubbing shoulders with the local inhabitants of the region, known as the Thakalis. Jomsom is the Administrative center of the Mustang region and the gateway to the Annapurna region. A land of mystique, the rugged peaks of the Annapurna, Nilgiri and Dhaulagari gaze down in their awesome splendor at weathered landscapes that contrast with the deep river ravines over noisy riverbeds. Jomsom is a mixture of hard work, social frivolity tempered by culture founded on deep religious traditions. It has the only airport that operates daily scheduled flights to Pokhara in the early mornings before the winds buildup.From here continue ride passing through the village, past the High Altitude Mountain Warfare School of the Royal Nepal Army and through several restaurants, bhattis and a hospital. We pass through the old Jomsom village which boasts of several lodges, restaurants school and government offices. At the end of the village the valley opens wide, take the left side of the trail just after crossing the three ruined chorten and continue on the east bank of the Kali Ghandaki River. After about 20 minutes, arrive at Ekklaibhatti a small village with few lodges. There are two trails here. The left will lead to Kagbeni while the right one leads to Muktinath. We take the right trail and continue to ascend slowly to the settlement of Jharkot, which has a fort “Kot”.
Kagbeni at an altitude of 2800m is a fascinating medieval village with closely packed mud brick houses, dark alleys and imposing chortens lies along the Around Annapurna Trekking route and is the gateway to Upper Mustang. The village stands in a little green oasis dominated by its red monastery. Though the village has a very medieval look, it can provide all the modern amenities that a traveler requires. This is the only village after Jomsom where there is an internet facility for communication with the outside world. This village also boasts of a Monastery. The monks here are of the yellow hat or the Gelukpa Sect and have only recently opened their monastery to visitors with a legitimate entrance fee of Rs 100, which they collect for the maintenance of their school.
From here, another 15 minutes of an ascent on the desert plateau with fantastic views of the Himalayan high desert landscape which finally brings us to Muktinath.
Upon arrival at Muktinath, check in to the guest house
Late PM: Visit Muktinath Temple
The Muktinath Temple is a sacred place both for Hindus and Buddhists and is located at an altitude of 3,710 meters at the foot of the Thorong La (5416 m Pass), Mustang district, Nepal. The site is close to the village of Ranipauwa, which sometimes mistakenly is called Muktinath as well.
The Hindus call this sacred place MuktiKshetra, which literally means “Place of Salvation”. This temple is considered to be the 105thamong the available 108 Divya Desam. The ancient name of this place, before the Buddhist origin was known as Thiru Saligram.
In Muktinath-Chumig Gyatsa all the elements are represented and for this and reasons unseen, yogis from both religions do their meditation at Muktinath. For Tibetan Buddhists, Muktinath (Chumig Gyatsa) is a place of Dakinis (goddess known as Sky Dancers). It is of great importance for Buddhists as Chumig Gyatsa is one of the 24 Tantric places.
For Hindus, beside the natural fire representing Brahman and the holy waters, the central meaning of the Muktinath area is veneration of the god Vishnu in the form of ammonites (shilas) called Salagrama – Shilas.
There are many stories which tell of Vishnu turning into stone and all of them are closely connected to the holy Kali Ghandaki River. According to contemporary geologists, the Salagrama – silas (found at the banks and river bed of the holy river Kali Ghandaki) are fossils of a prehistoric insect. This insect is mentioned in the Bhavisya Purana. Therein, Tulasi, the sacred plant so dear to Vishnu, cursed Vishnu to become a stone during one act of their eternal lila. Vishnu said, “To fulfill your curse, I will become a stone (Salagrama-sila) and will always live on the banks of the Ghandaki River. The millions of Vajrakita worms that live at that place will adorn those stones with the signs of my chakra by carving them with their sharp teeth”.
After the sightseeing tour of Muktinath Temple descend down to the Ranipauwa (Main Bazaar of Muktinath).

Overnight at Hotel

Day 05: Ride from Muktinath to Kalopani (2Hrs/48.7km/2480m)
After Breakfast, ride out of Muktinath towards Kalopani.
(Note: The Kaligandaki Valley becomes increasingly windy during the day as the winds blows south to north and makes it difficult for travelers.
After spending some time at Kagbeni continue ride to Jomsom (approx. 11 Km) but we continue further 25 kilometers, about 1 ½ hour slow ride to Kalopani via Marpha Village.
Here we stop at Marpha at an elevation of 2670 meters. Marpha is famous for its apple orchards and apple products. This large Thakali village exhibits the typical Thak Khola architecture of flat roofs and narrow paved alleys and passageways. It also has a monastery. After lunch ride another 1 to 1 ½ hour to Kalopani. Upon arrival at Kalopani, check in to the lodge.

Overnight at Hotel

Day 06: Ride from Kalopani to Pokhara (4.30Hrs/124.8km/822m)
After breakfast retrace the route till Pokhara Lunch at Kushma.
Pokhara is 75 kilometers from Bandipur. Firstly, descend to the main highway and head west following the Marshyangdi River for a while and then slowly ascend through terraced agricultural lands and small road side villages. At the outskirts of Pokhara, we are greeted with views of the Annapurna Mountain range including the famous Fish Tail Mountain.

Pokhara stands at 827 meters above sea level and is an ideal vacationer’s paradise. With its crystal clear lakes, magnificent views of the Annapurna Mountain Range and its bustling but quaint lake side bazaar, it is a major tourist attraction. From here most of the treks starts for the western region and is a haven for people who wants to relax in this serene mountain beauty. The Annapurna mountain range is impressive by any standard and looming ahead to take the center stage is Machapucchre or “Fish Tail Mountain”, which gets its name from the shape of its summit and flanking it from either side are the great mountains of the range including Annapurna I (8091 m), the first 8000 m peak to be scaled in 1950. The range continues to meet the Lamjung Himal in the east while to its west looms the massive dome of Dhaulagiri (8161 m).
Upon arrival at Pokhara check in to the hotel and rest of the day is free to relax and explore around the lake Bazaar.

Overnight at Hotel

Day 07: Free day at Pokhara (822m)
Free day to relax and explore around the lake bazaar for the souvenir shopping or sightseeing tour around city. Adventure activities like paragliding, bungee, ultra-light; zip flyer etc. can be performed in Pokhara.

Overnight at Hotel

Day 08: Ride from Pokhara to Tal (6.5Hrs/145km/1700m)
After breakfast, met by the road captain and crew and ride 150 kms to TAL enroute to Manang. The ride starts by riding on the Pokhara/Kathmandu highway for 70Kms to the settlement of Dumre from where, we head towards the north to Jagat (80km). Though the initial first half of the ride is short, it is quite enjoyable and scenic as we reach the bustling town of Besishahar, the municipality and the district headquarters of Lamjung District in Gandaki Zone, Nepal, a good place to stop for lunch.

After lunch, the ride from Besisahar to Jagat (34km/2hrs) is one of the most difficult terrains. The path is a rocky single lane track with stones and occasional waterfalls. Deep gorges and valleys can be seen on the way as there is a gradual change in the scenery. This is a good trail for adventure and thrill seekers who like to challenge themselves. Motor biking on this route is one of the most exhilarating experiences one can be a part of as you pass through many notable settlements en route. Upon arrival at Jagat, ride another 10 kilometer to TAL. The Tal village, the gate way of Manang, Tilicho Lake and Annapurna Circuit Trek. Tal is very beautiful small village and it is nice place to stay overnight. You can enjoy with is beautiful waterfall and the Marsyangdi river.
Overnight at Guest House, TAL

Day 09: Ride from Tal to Manang (3Hrs/56.1km/3519m)
From Tal, set out on a ride to the village of Chame and then reach the Pisang village which makes us feels like we have time traveled to the past. Beautiful houses and stoned paved path and the fluttering of many prayer flags glorify the natural beauty of Pisang. There are also magnificent views of the Annapurna massif against grasslands where wild horses and cattle graze. There is the gradual change in the landscape where the colors of grey and green complement each other really well. We pass through monasteries and small tea houses that offer basic but good accommodation for the many that come here for Trekking around Annapurna. About riding for 4 hours on a difficult and challenging road, we reach Bhraga for a much needed lunch break. While the lunch gets ready, we can take time to wander around Bharga to see this picturesque village with its flat roofed houses and to visit the Gompa, not only the largest in the region but also the richest with its fine collection of thankas (religious scroll paintings) and prayer books.After lunch, ride another 30 min to reach Manang. Upon Arrival, check into Guesthouse. Manang District a part of Gandaki Pradesh, is one of the seventy-seven districts of Nepal. The district, with Chame as its district headquarters, covers an area of 2,246 km² and had a population (2011) of 6,538. The pass of Throung La at 5415 meters above the sea connects the district to Mustang district by providing a route between the towns of Manang and Muktinath. Manang district gets the least amount of rainfall among districts of Nepal as it lies to the north of the Himalayas which blocks monsoon air. The Manang Valley, which lies close to the Nepal-Tibet border, offers tremendous opportunities due to its rich natural flora and fauna.

Overnight at Guest House

Day 10: AM: Excursion around Manang
PM: Ride from Manang to Chame(1.30Hrs/30.9km/2650m)
EXCURSION TO GANGAPURNA GLACIER & KHANGSAR LAKE
From Manang situated on a large promontory above the river you descent to the bridge near the lake Gangapurna Tal. You ascent sharply to the moraine from here and then along the hairpin bends through pine forest. After about an hour walk there are nice views of the western part of the valley with the ridge separating Manang from the Lower Mustang. You can nicely see the two paths leading from Manang – the lower leading under the fields to Khangsar and the upper above the fields to Yak Kharka.
After Lunch in Manang, we will back track the same road to Chame.
EVE: Enjoy the Natural Hot Spring
Upon arrival, check into Guest House.
Overnight at Guest House

Day 11: Ride from Chame to Reipe Village (4.30Hrs/85.8km/1100m)
From the beautiful village of Chame, we make our way back to Besisahar and to Turture. The mountains disappear as we get back to the lushly forested region. We descend all the way to Besisahar, The one who reaches the place called kalimati near turture has to turn right via the village of Chisopani and up to Riepe.
The total travelling time to Riepe is approximately 5 hours from Chame.
Upon arrival at Riepe Village, check in to the homestay and rest of the day is free to relax or chill around the village.
The Riepe Village offers the opportunity to experience authentic village life in Nepal with a western charm. It is built as a homestay but with the benefit to support locals in the village. Located on terraced hills, the inhabitants of the village are predominantly from the kind and cheerful Magar tribe and they produce their own organic products. The peaceful and simplistic environment of the village is calming and the view of the mountains around are just breathtaking.
Overnight at Homestay, Reipe Village

Day 12: Ride from Reipe Village to Kathmandu (5.23Hrs/161.1km/1400m)
After breakfast ride 85 kms to Kathmandu. Firstly retrace the journey to Dumre and join up with the main Pokhara / Kathmandu highway. Then turn left and continue to Muglin where the road bifurcates to Chitwan (right) and to Kathmandu (left). Continue on the road to Kathmandu for another 110 kilometers which takes about 4- 5 hours. Upon Arrival, check into the hotel.

Overnight at the Hotel

Day 13: Departure
After breakfast, met by representative and transferred to the airport for the onward flight home. (Reporting time is at least 3hrs before flight time)

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