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Kathmandu to Muktinath Motorbike Tour

The Kathmandu to Muktinath motorbike tour is a classic Himalayan ride. Leave Kathmandu for the hill town of Bandipur and lakeside Pokhara, then ride up the Kali Gandaki, one of the deepest gorges in the world, past the hot springs at Tatopani and the apple orchards of Marpha to medieval Kagbeni and the sacred temple of Muktinath (3,800 m).

Royal Enfield bikes, fuel, ride leader, support vehicle with mechanic, ACAP permit, accommodation and meals on the ride are included.

CountryNepal
Duration10 Days
DifficultyModerate to challenging
ActivityMotorbike tour
Max. AltitudeAbout 3,800 m / 12,467 ft (Muktinath)
Best SeasonOct–Nov and Mar–May
AccommodationHotels and lodges
MealsBreakfast daily; all meals on the ride from Pokhara
Group size2–10 riders

Trip highlights

  • Ride the Kali Gandaki gorge
  • Muktinath temple at 3,800 m
  • Hill town of Bandipur
  • Hot springs at Tatopani
  • Support vehicle and mechanic

Kathmandu to Muktinath Motorbike Tour overview

Quick answer: a 10-day guided motorbike tour from Kathmandu to Muktinath and back, from US$1,490 per rider including bike, fuel, support vehicle, permit and accommodation.

The road beyond Beni is unpaved, rocky and dusty in places, with river crossings, so this tour suits riders with some experience. See our motorbike tours guide.

At a glance

FactDetails
Duration10 days
RouteKathmandu – Bandipur – Pokhara – Tatopani – Marpha – Muktinath
BikesRoyal Enfield
Highest pointMuktinath, about 3,800 m
CostFrom US$1,490 per rider

Day-by-day itinerary

Day1
Airport pick-up, bike handover and briefing.
1,400 m Hotel
Day2
Ride west along the Trishuli valley to the old hill town of Bandipur.
5–6 hours riding 1,030 m Breakfast Heritage guesthouse Motorbike
Day3
Short ride to Pokhara; afternoon by Phewa Lake.
2–3 hours riding 820 m Breakfast Hotel Motorbike
Day4
Ride via Beni into the Kali Gandaki valley; soak in the hot springs.
5–6 hours riding 1,190 m Breakfast, lunch, dinner Lodge Motorbike
Day5
Ride up the gorge between Dhaulagiri and the Annapurnas to Marpha.
4–5 hours riding 2,670 m Breakfast, lunch, dinner Lodge Motorbike
Day6
Ride through Jomsom to Kagbeni, then up to Muktinath temple.
3–4 hours riding 3,800 m Breakfast, lunch, dinner Lodge Motorbike and sightseeing
Day7
Morning at the temple, then ride back down the valley.
6–7 hours riding 1,190 m Breakfast, lunch, dinner Lodge Motorbike
Day8
Ride back to Pokhara; free evening at Lakeside.
4–5 hours riding 820 m Breakfast, lunch Hotel Motorbike
Day9
Ride back to Kathmandu along the Prithvi Highway; farewell dinner.
6–7 hours riding 1,400 m Breakfast, dinner Hotel Motorbike
Day10
Transfer to the airport.
1,400 m Breakfast

What’s included

Included

  • Airport transfers
  • Royal Enfield motorbike and fuel
  • Experienced ride leader
  • Support vehicle with mechanic and spare parts
  • ACAP permit
  • Hotels in Kathmandu, Bandipur and Pokhara with breakfast
  • Lodges with all meals from Tatopani to Muktinath
  • All government and local taxes

Not included

  • International flights and visa
  • Riding gear (can be rented)
  • Damage to the bike
  • Lunch and dinner in towns except as listed
  • Travel insurance covering motorbike riding
  • Tips

Useful info

Licence

You need a valid motorcycle licence and an International Driving Permit with the motorcycle category.

Experience

The road above Beni is rough and unpaved; this tour suits riders with some off-road experience.

Altitude

Muktinath is at 3,800 m; ride slowly and tell your leader about any symptoms.

Packing list

  • Riding jacket, trousers, gloves and boots
  • Helmet (or rent one)
  • Warm down jacket
  • Buff against dust
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen

Add-ons & trip options

Upper Mustang extension to Lo Manthang, 3 days with permit (per rider)US$590

Choose add-ons and quantities on the booking form.

More options, quoted on request:

  • Lo Manthang extension into Upper Mustang (restricted area permit required).
  • Pillion rider rate, quoted on request.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, a motorcycle licence and an International Driving Permit.

Royal Enfield motorbikes.

From US$1,490 per rider.

Above Beni it is rough and unpaved; some experience is needed.

Yes, with a mechanic.