Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking
●●●●● 4.9 · 60+ TripAdvisor reviewsRide the full Annapurna Circuit with a dedicated support vehicle, Tilicho Lake side trip, and the highest rideable pass crossing in Nepal
On The Trail
What It Really Looks Like
Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking: What to Expect
One of the highest mountain pass crossings accessible by bicycle anywhere in the world
Carries your luggage the entire route so you ride with a light daypack only
A hike-and-bike extension almost no circuit riders attempt, one of the highest lakes on earth
xperienced mountain biking guide with Annapurna Circuit-specific route knowledge
The Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking trip covers the full 300km circuit in 16 days with a dedicated support vehicle, a Tilicho Lake side trip, and a crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416m. The route runs from Besisahar through subtropical river valleys, pine forests, high alpine desert, and ancient Gurung and Thakali villages before descending through the Kali Gandaki gorge to Pokhara.
Roughly 35 percent of the route above Besisahar is paved or compacted road. The rest is unpaved jeep track, loose gravel, rocky singletrack, and above 4,500m, sections where carrying and pushing the bike is unavoidable. The Thorong La Pass crossing requires 3 to 4 hours of bike carrying on steep rocky terrain before a 1,600m descent to Muktinath. This trip is rated hard and is suitable only for experienced mountain bikers with strong technical skills, excellent cardiovascular fitness, and prior experience at altitude above 3,000m.
A dedicated support vehicle travels with the group from Kathmandu to Besisahar and from Beni to Pokhara. Above Manang where the vehicle cannot follow, porters carry overnight luggage. All meals are included from Day 3 at Besisahar through to Day 14 at Pokhara. Kumar answers personally if you have questions before booking.
For a shorter introduction to Annapurna biking see our Muktinath to Pokhara Downhill Biking Adventure. For riders who want to go deeper into the Mustang region the Upper Mustang Biking Adventure is the natural next step.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Kathmandu
A MountainKick representative meets you at the airport and transfers you to your hotel in Thamel. Your guide runs a comprehensive pre-trip briefing covering the full 16-day route, daily expectations, altitude protocols, and bike setup. The evening is free to explore Thamel and pick up any last-minute gear or supplies
Pre-Trip Briefing and Test Ride
A morning briefing covers safety protocols, high-altitude riding challenges, and emergency procedures before an afternoon guided test ride through Kathmandu Valley on a loop through Newari villages and temple paths. This warm-up ride is used to fine-tune bike fitting, test all equipment, and identify any mechanical issues before leaving the city
Drive to Besisahar
An early departure by private support vehicle through Dhading, Chitwan, and Tanahun districts with the first sustained views of the middle hills and the approaching Himalayan front range. Besisahar is the gateway to the Annapurna Conservation Area and the official start of the biking circuit. Use the afternoon for a final bike check and to meet the support team
Ride to Chamje
The first real riding day follows the Marsyangdi River valley upstream through Gurung villages, suspension bridges, and waterfalls on a mix of jeep track and singletrack. The day involves 670m of net climbing with the first views of Manaslu at 8,163m and Himalchuli at 7,893m beginning to appear above the treeline. Jagat has an ACAP checkpoint where permits are inspected
Ride to Chame
A shorter distance day but with sustained climbing and increasingly technical terrain as the valley narrows and the trail gains altitude. The steepest section above Danaque requires significant pushing before the trail widens approaching Chame, the administrative headquarters of Manang District. Natural hot springs a five-minute walk from the village are the best recovery option after a hard day in the saddle
Ride to Manang
The trail climbs out of pine forest above Chame and opens into the wide arid Manang valley where the Annapurna massif suddenly fills the southern skyline. The route passes through Pisang, Braga, and Ngawal before the final run into Manang. Braga village, one of the oldest settlements on the circuit, has a 500-year-old monastery worth stopping at before the push to Manang
Acclimatization Day in Manang
A mandatory rest day at 3,540m before the higher altitude days ahead. The Himalayan Rescue Association runs a free altitude sickness briefing in Manang that all riders should attend. Short hikes to Ice Lake at 4,600m or Gangapurna Lake are the recommended acclimatization activity. The afternoon is free for bike maintenance and gear checks
Ride to Shree Kharka, Hike to Tilicho Base Camp
From Manang the route heads west on rough jeep track through Khangsar village to Shree Kharka where bikes are stored safely at the lodge. The remaining trail to Tilicho Base Camp is a hike through dramatic high-altitude terrain with views of Tilicho Peak at 7,134m and Annapurna III. An early overnight at base camp prepares you for the lake ascent the following morning
Hike to Tilicho Lake and Ride to Manang
An early start from base camp for the 5km ascent to Tilicho Lake at 4,919m on rocky trail with possible snow ramps in some seasons. The lake is a vast turquoise sheet ringed by Tilicho Peak, Annapurna III, and the Cathedral Glacier. After descending to Shree Kharka the bike ride back to Manang through the Khangsar valley is mostly fast and rideable
Ride to Yak Kharka
Back on the main circuit route heading toward Thorong La. The trail climbs steadily through Tenki Manang, the last permanent settlement before the pass, and up to the high pastures of Yak Kharka. The distance is short but the altitude gain is steady and the air noticeably thinner with every kilometre. An early night is advisable before the high camp push tomorrow
Ride to Thorong High Camp
The shortest riding day by distance but among the hardest by effort. At this altitude cycling feels like wading through water and even walking requires deliberate effort. An early arrival at high camp is essential for adequate rest before the pre-dawn pass crossing the following morning. Eat well, hydrate aggressively, and sleep as early as possible
Cross Thorong La Pass to Muktinath
Departure from high camp at 4am is mandatory to beat the dangerous afternoon winds on the pass. The summit push involves 3 to 4 hours of carrying and pushing bikes on steep rocky and often snow-covered terrain to the 5,416m summit. The descent from the pass drops nearly 1,600m through the arid Mustang rain shadow to Muktinath, one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in the Hindu and Buddhist worlds
Ride to Tatopani
The great reward. One of the best descending days on any biking route in the Himalayas, dropping 2,610m through Kagbeni, the medieval gateway to Upper Mustang, and into the Kali Gandaki gorge between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. Marpha village and its famous apple orchards and Tukuche with its historic trading houses are both worth stopping at. Natural hot springs wait at Tatopani at the end of the day
Ride to Kushma and Drive to Pokhara
The final riding day follows a paved road south through the Modi Khola valley to Kushma, known for Nepal’s highest bungee jump at 228m above the Kali Gandaki gorge. After the ride the support vehicle transfers the group to Pokhara in approximately two hours. A lakeside dinner after two weeks of teahouse food is well deserved
Pokhara Leisure Day and Fly to Kathmandu
A free morning in Pokhara before the afternoon flight back to Kathmandu. Sunrise at Sarangkot and a morning boat on Phewa Lake are both worth the effort after twelve days of consecutive riding. The 25-minute flight offers views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri on a clear day. Farewell dinner in Kathmandu marks the completion of the circuit
Final Departure
Private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport timed to your flight. Your guide issues completion certificates for the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake extension before seeing you off at departures
3D Route Map
Includes & Excludes
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Airport and hotel transfers Private vehicle, both directions
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3-star hotel in Kathmandu, 2 nights Twin-sharing, breakfast included
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Hotel in Pokhara, 1 night Twin-sharing, breakfast included
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Guesthouse accommodation on circuit Twin-sharing, Besisahar to Tatopani
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All meals Days 3 to 14 Every breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the circuit
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Farewell dinner in Kathmandu Traditional Nepali meal on Day 15
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Fresh fruit during riding days Provided from support vehicle throughout
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Dedicated support vehicle Private jeep or van matched to group size, full trip
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Government-licensed mountain biking guide English speaking, full trip from arrival to departure
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Porter service above Manang Carries overnight luggage on sections vehicle cannot access
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Private ground transport Kathmandu to Besisahar Day 3, departs early morning
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Private ground transport Beni to Pokhara Day 14, after Kushma ride section
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Pokhara to Kathmandu domestic flight Day 15, approximately 25 minutes
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Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Arranged by MountainKick before departure
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TIMS card Trekkers' Information Management System card
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All government taxes and fees Nothing added after booking
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International flights To and from Kathmandu
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Nepal visa $30 / $50 / $125 on arrival at Kathmandu airport
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Bike rental Standard bike NPR 2,200 per day / Mountain bike $33 per day / Electric bike $100 per day
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Travel insurance Must cover high-altitude mountain biking above 5,500m and helicopter evacuation
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Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara Breakfast only covered at hotels
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Personal drinks, snacks, and alcohol Throughout the circuit
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Optional activities Paragliding in Pokhara, Kushma bungee jump, additional sightseeing
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Tips for guide, porters, and support staff 10 to 15% of trip cost is standard across Nepal
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Costs from flight delays or weather disruptions Travel insurance covers most scenarios
Enhance Your Trek
We Handle the Details
FreeWhere You'll Sleep & What You'll Eat
In Kathmandu and Pokhara you stay in 3-star hotels on twin-sharing basis with breakfast included. Rooms have private bathrooms, hot water, and Wi-Fi. On the circuit from Besisahar to Tatopani you stay in teahouse guesthouses with basic twin rooms, shared or private bathrooms, and simple facilities. Hot showers and Wi-Fi are available at most stops for a small extra charge. Standards decrease with altitude. Above Manang expect more basic conditions with limited electricity and no reliable hot showers. Tilicho Base Camp guesthouses are the most basic overnight of the trip with minimal facilities at 4,150m. Thorong High Camp at 4,925m has very basic shared accommodation with limited heating. Single supplement is available on request throughout but cannot be guaranteed at very high altitude stops above Manang.
All meals are included from Day 3 at Besisahar through to Day 14 at Pokhara. In Kathmandu and Pokhara only breakfast is included at the hotel. Fresh fruit is provided during riding days from the support vehicle. Teahouses and guesthouses on the circuit serve dal bhat, noodle soups, fried rice, momos, eggs, and pasta. Vegetarian options are available everywhere. Above Manang food choices narrow and prices increase as everything is carried in by porter or mule. Budget for personal drinks, snacks, and any extras outside the included meals. A farewell dinner is included on Day 15 in Kathmandu.
| Personal drinks and snacks | $10 to $20 per day |
| Hot shower | $2 to $5 |
| Wi-Fi | $2 to $5 per day |
| Battery charging | $1 to $2 per device |
| Tatopani hot springs entry | $2 to $3 |
What Our Trekkers Say
“An incredible way to ride the Annapurna Circuit”
The three of us had an amazing time cycling the Annapurna Circuit with Jeevan. The route was challenging in places, which was part of what made it so rewarding, the scenery shifts constantly, from green valleys and villages to the huge mountains around Manang and Thorong La. Jeevan was excellent…
“Great adventure with an excellent team”
As a group of six friends, Raj did a fantastic job keeping everyone together through some tough climbs and dusty sections. The riding itself was incredible and the whole group had a great time. The views around the higher parts of the circuit were unbelievable. MountainKick made the logistics easy,…
“A brilliant cycling trip through Nepal”
Jeevan was a great guide for our group of three, he knew the route well and was always ready to help when the riding got difficult. We loved the mix of mountain roads, villages, and quieter stretches of the circuit. Crossing Thorong La by bike was hard work, but a…
“One of the best cycling trips we have done”
Our group of six had an unforgettable time on the Annapurna Circuit. Raj was calm and organized, and clearly good at managing a larger group. The riding was demanding, but every day brought something different, and the mountain scenery was spectacular. MountainKick were excellent from the planning stage right through…
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of mountain biking experience is required?
This trip requires advanced mountain biking skills and strong physical fitness. You should be comfortable riding technical loose and rocky terrain for 5 to 8 hours at altitude and experienced in multi-day riding. Prior experience at altitude above 3,000m is strongly recommended. This trip is not suitable for beginners or casual cyclists. If you want to assess your readiness, our Kathmandu Valley Biking Tour is a good gauge before committing to the circuit.
Can I actually ride a bike all the way to Tilicho Lake?
No. You ride from Manang to Shree Kharka on rough mountain track, approximately 14km. Bikes are left at the Shree Kharka lodge and the remaining trail to Tilicho Base Camp and the lake is a hike. This is a hike-and-bike day which is a richer experience than pure riding. The lake at 4,919m is worth every step of the approach.
How hard is the Thorong La Pass crossing on a bike?
It is the hardest single day of the trip. The summit push from high camp involves 3 to 4 hours of carrying and pushing bikes on steep rocky terrain at above 5,000m where oxygen levels are severely reduced. Departure at 4am is mandatory to beat dangerous afternoon winds. The descent from the 5,416m summit to Muktinath drops nearly 1,600m and is increasingly rideable and extraordinary. Come mentally prepared for the carry section.
Is a bike provided or do I need to bring my own?
Bikes are not included in the package price but are available as an optional rental. We offer standard bikes at NPR 2,200 per day, mountain bikes at $33 per day, and electric bikes at $100 per day. All rental bikes are checked and adjusted at the Day 2 test ride. If you bring your own bike let us know in advance so we can arrange transport for the flight section.
What type of bike is best for this route?
A full-suspension mountain bike is ideal for the technical sections above Chame and on the Tilicho approach. A quality hardtail with 2.2 inch or wider tyres is acceptable. Road bikes and hybrid bikes are not suitable for this route. Electric mountain bikes are available as a rental option for riders who want assistance on the sustained climbing sections.
What happens if I get altitude sickness on the circuit?
Your guide is trained in altitude sickness recognition and response. If symptoms are mild the protocol is to rest, hydrate, and not ascend further. If symptoms do not improve or worsen, descent is mandatory. Helicopter evacuation from the circuit to Kathmandu is the standard emergency response for serious cases. This is why comprehensive travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation above 5,500m is mandatory for all participants.
Is the support vehicle with the group the entire time?
The support vehicle travels between road-accessible points on the circuit and is available at most overnight stops from Besisahar to Beni. Above Manang on sections the vehicle cannot access, porters carry overnight luggage. The vehicle carries your main bag throughout so you ride with a light daypack only. It also provides backup transport if any rider needs to skip a section due to fatigue, injury, or altitude.
When is the best time of year for this trip?
September to early December and March to May. Post-monsoon October and November give the most stable pass conditions and clearest mountain views. Spring is warmer at lower elevations but Thorong La can still have significant snow in March. The pass is sometimes closed in January and February due to heavy snowfall. We do not operate this trip during the monsoon months of June to August.
Are all meals included?
All meals are included from Day 3 at Besisahar through to Day 14 at Pokhara. In Kathmandu and Pokhara only breakfast is included at the hotel. Fresh fruit is provided from the support vehicle during riding days. A farewell dinner is included on Day 15 in Kathmandu. Budget for personal drinks, snacks, hot showers, and Wi-Fi along the circuit as these are not included.
What permits are required?
Two permits are required: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS card. Both are arranged by MountainKick in Kathmandu before departure and are included in the package price. You will need to carry your passport and permit copies at all checkpoints along the route.
What travel insurance do I need?
Travel insurance covering high-altitude mountain biking above 5,500m and emergency helicopter evacuation is mandatory for all participants. We will ask for proof of insurance before departure. Helicopter rescue from the Thorong La area costs approximately $4,000 to $6,000 without insurance. Purchase your policy before arriving in Nepal and carry a printed copy throughout the trip.
Can the itinerary be modified?
Yes. Common adjustments include skipping the Tilicho extension to reduce the trip to 15 days, adding a rest day at Tatopani, or extending with a post-trip trekking or biking addition. Contact us directly to discuss options or use our trip customisation page.
Departure Dates & Pricing
No upcoming fixed departures are scheduled at the moment. Contact us to arrange a private departure on dates that suit you.
Your dates, your group, your way
Same route and guides, just your group. Tell us when you'd like to go and how many of you there are, and we'll send you a day by day plan with a price.
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- Confirm with a 20% deposit
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20% deposit: due on booking Secures your place on the departure. The deposit is non-refundable. We also need a copy of your passport.
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80% balance: due on arrival Pay the rest in Kathmandu before the trip starts. Bank transfer, cash, or card (4% card fee).
| Cancel before you arrive | Deposit not refunded, nothing more to pay |
| Cancel after the pre-trip meeting | No refund |
| Date or name change | USD 200 per person |
| MountainKick cancels trip | Full refund or reschedule |
Weather delays and extra days cost extra, so travel insurance is required. We give you documents for any claim.
Read the full terms and conditionsPacking List
Bike and Riding Gear
ⓘ Rental bikes available through us at NPR 2,200 per day for standard, $33 per day for mountain bike, $100 per day for electric. All rentals are checked and adjusted at the Day 2 test ride. If bringing your own bike inform us in advance for flight transport arrangements.
Clothing and Layers
ⓘ Temperature swings of 25 degrees in a single day are normal on this route. Lower sections below Chame can be hot and humid. Above Manang expect near-freezing mornings. Pack layering you can access quickly from your daypack.
Footwear
ⓘ Two footwear systems required. Bike shoes for riding sections. Hiking boots for carry sections on Thorong La, Tilicho Lake hike, and any sections too steep or rocky to ride. Both must be broken in before you arrive.
Sleeping and Warmth
ⓘ Sleeping bags rated to -10°C can be rented through us in Kathmandu before departure. Collect on arrival day.
Head and Hands
ⓘ The 4am summit push on Thorong La involves wind chill well below -15°C. A balaclava and insulated gloves are not optional for the pass day.
Gear and Equipment
ⓘ Your main bag travels in the support vehicle throughout. Keep your daypack under 5kg for riding days and under 7kg for the Thorong La carry day when you also need warm layers accessible.
Health and Hydration
ⓘ Your guide carries a pulse oximeter and basic emergency kit. This is your personal kit for day-to-day needs. Talk to your doctor about Diamox before you leave.
Toiletries
ⓘ Hot showers are available at most guesthouses below Manang for a small extra charge. Above Manang and at Tilicho Base Camp expect limited or no shower facilities.
Documents and Money
ⓘ All meals are included from Day 3 so daily cash needs are minimal. Budget NPR 1,000 to 2,000 per day for personal extras only. Withdraw sufficient cash in Manang before the high sections.
Trekking in Winter (Dec to Feb)
Trekking in Monsoon (Jun to Aug)
⚠ We do not operate this trip during monsoon from June to August. Trail conditions on the lower circuit between Besisahar and Chame are very difficult, the Thorong La crossing is dangerous in heavy rain, and visibility for mountain views is poor throughout. Spring and autumn are the only reliable seasons for this trip.
Leave at home
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Road bike or hybrid bike Not suitable for the technical terrain above Chame and on the Tilicho approach
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Cotton clothing Absorbs sweat and stays wet. Dangerous at altitude when temperatures drop rapidly
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Standard -10°C sleeping bag without extra layers Thorong High Camp drops to -15°C. A -10°C bag needs supplementing with the provided blankets and a liner
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Laptop No need and adds serious weight to the support vehicle. Use a phone or tablet instead
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Valuables and jewellery No safe storage at high altitude guesthouses. Leave anything irreplaceable in Kathmandu
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Full-size toiletries Decant into small bottles. Space in the support vehicle is shared across the group
Mountain bikes, electric bikes, and standard bikes can be rented through us. Sleeping bags rated to -10°C and expedition down parkas are also available for rent in Kathmandu. Crampons and microspikes for Tilicho and Thorong La are rentable in Manang. MountainKick provides a duffel bag for the support vehicle and connects you with trusted Thamel gear shops at the pre-trip briefing.
Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking
Talk to Kumar and the team before you commit. Ask about gear, fitness, altitude or a private group.
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