Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking
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duration 15 days
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from usd 1,865
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difficulty Hard
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best season Sep-Dec | Mar-May
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group size min. 2 pax
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max altitude From 4,390 feet at Kathmandu to 17,769 feet at Thorung-La Pass
trip overview
Experience the ultimate high-altitude mountain biking challenge as you circumnavigate the majestic Annapurna massif on two wheels. This extraordinary 240-mile circuit takes you through some of the world’s most spectacular and demanding terrain, from subtropical valleys to the Arctic conditions of Thorong La Pass at 17,769 feet.
The Annapurna Circuit Biking expedition represents the pinnacle of mountain biking adventures, combining technical riding skills with extreme altitude challenges. With road construction transforming the traditional trekking route, mountain biking has surged in popularity throughout the region, offering cyclists an unparalleled way to experience the diverse landscapes and rich cultures of the Annapurna region.
Key highlights include:
Conquering Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft) – Cross one of the world’s highest mountain passes accessible by bicycle, an achievement that pushes both rider and machine to their absolute limits
Epic 240-mile circuit challenge – Navigate 65% unpaved roads and 15% singletrack terrain around the entire Annapurna massif with extreme difficulty rating of 8 out of 10
Extreme altitude mountain biking – Experience the unique demands of cycling where oxygen deficiency makes it feel like breathing through a straw, especially while pushing your loaded bike up steep inclines
Technical terrain mastery – Tackle challenging climbs with hairpin turns on loose gravel and rocky surfaces, with frequent bike carrying required on the most demanding sections
Epic downhill adventures – Enjoy thrilling descents including the legendary ride from Muktinath to Tatopani, dropping almost 3,000 meters over 2-3 days
Cultural immersion from the saddle – Experience traditional Gurung, Manang, and Thakali villages from a unique cyclist’s perspective while traversing dramatically changing landscapes
Ultimate mountain biking achievement – Complete one of the world’s most prestigious and demanding mountain biking circuits, reserved for only the most experienced and determined cyclists
This demanding expedition is designed for experienced mountain bikers seeking the ultimate Himalayan challenge. Unlike traditional trekking, this biking adventure requires advanced technical skills, superior physical fitness, and mental resilience to handle frequent bike pushing, extreme altitude, and unpredictable mountain conditions.
Detailed itinerary
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day 01Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,600ft)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in a private vehicle. Rest and recover from your journey. Evening free to explore Thamel district or rest before your adventure begins.
Points of Interest:
- Airport transfer in private vehicle
- Hotel check-in and rest
- Thamel district exploration for any last-minute gear needs
- Accommodation: Hotel
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day 02Pre-trip Meeting and Test Ride in Kathmandu Valley (1,400m)
Morning comprehensive expedition briefing with your mountain biking guide covering route details, safety protocols, and high-altitude biking challenges. Afternoon guided test ride through Kathmandu Valley’s scenic countryside. This 40-50km warm-up ride allows you to familiarize yourself with your mountain bike and test all equipment.
Biking Details: 4-5 hours cycling, moderate terrain, equipment testing focus
Points of Interest:
- Professional expedition briefing with certified mountain bike guide
- Bike fitting session and equipment inspection
- Traditional Newari villages and ancient temples
- Final bike adjustments and gear optimization
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast
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day 03Drive to Besisahar, Short Bike to Bhulbhule (760m-840m)
Early morning drive to Besisahar in private vehicle (4-5 hours) through Nepal’s scenic middle hills. Upon arrival, assess energy levels and weather conditions. Option to begin biking with a short ride to Bhulbhule, or stay overnight in Besisahar if the drive was exhausting.
Drive Duration: 4-5 hours in private vehicle
Optional Biking: 2-3 hours cycling, easy terrain (only if energy permits)Points of Interest:
- Scenic drive through Nepal’s middle hills in private vehicle
- First glimpse of Annapurna region landscapes
- Flexibility based on group energy levels
- Traditional Gurung villages if biking to Bhulbhule
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast
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day 04Bike to Tal (840m-1,700m or 760m-1,700m)
Begin your Annapurna Circuit adventure following the Marsyangdi River valley. Starting point depends on previous day’s decision. Porters will carry your overnight gear, allowing you to ride with just day packs. No meals provided during trek – purchase at local teahouses.
Biking Details: 4-6 hours cycling depending on start point, gradual climbs, river valley terrain
Points of Interest:
- Marsyangdi River gorge scenery
- Traditional Gurung villages and suspension bridges
- First technical mountain biking challenges
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
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day 05Bike from Tal to Chame (1,700m-2,670m)
Challenging day with significant altitude gain through changing ecosystems. The trail becomes more technical with loose gravel sections and steeper climbs. Experience the dramatic transformation from subtropical vegetation to pine forests. Meals at local teahouses along the route.
Biking Details: 5-6 hours cycling, challenging climbs, 40% bike pushing expected
Points of Interest:
- Entry into Manang district administration
- First views of major Himalayan peaks
- Traditional stone houses and apple orchards
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
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day 06Bike from Chame to Manang (2,670m-3,519m)
Enter the spectacular Manang valley with increasingly dramatic mountain vistas. The terrain becomes more arid as you enter the rain shadow area behind the Himalayas. Technical riding skills essential as trails narrow and become rockier.
Biking Details: 6 hours cycling, very challenging terrain, 50% bike carrying required
Points of Interest:
- Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal panoramic views
- Cultural transition to Tibetan Buddhist influences
- Natural hot springs near route
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
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day 07Acclimatization Day in Manang
Crucial rest day for high-altitude adaptation. Optional short rides around Manang valley or hike to Gangapurna Lake. Comprehensive bike maintenance check and preparation for the extreme high-altitude challenges ahead. Cultural exploration of traditional Manang village.
Points of Interest:
- Ancient Manang monastery and traditional architecture
- Gangapurna Lake excursion option
- Professional bike maintenance and safety review
- Accommodation: Hotel
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day 08Bike from Manang to Yak Kharka (3,519m-4,018m)
Enter the high alpine zone where mountain biking becomes extremely demanding due to thin air. Every pedal stroke requires effort as oxygen levels drop significantly. Spectacular high-altitude desert landscape with incredible mountain amphitheater views.
Biking Details: 4-5 hours cycling, extreme altitude challenge, 60% bike pushing
Points of Interest:
- High alpine desert environment and unique vegetation
- Preparation views of approaching Thorong La Pass
- Traditional yak grazing pastures
- Accommodation: Hotel
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day 09Bike from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,018m-4,450m)
Short but intensely challenging ride to Thorong La Pass base camp. Most of this section involves carrying and pushing bikes up steep, rocky terrain. Early arrival essential for rest and preparation before tomorrow’s pass crossing.
Biking Details: 3-4 hours, primarily bike carrying, extreme altitude effects
Points of Interest:
- Thorong La Pass base camp atmosphere
- Final equipment check before pass crossing
- Dramatic mountain cirque views
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
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day 10Cross Thorong La Pass to Muktinath (4,450m-5,416m-3,710m)
The ultimate mountain biking challenge – crossing one of the world’s highest bikeable mountain passes. Pre-dawn start (4:00 AM) essential for safe crossing. Extensive bike carrying to 17,769-foot summit, followed by technical descent into Mustang region.
Biking Details: 8-10 hours total, 3 hours bike carrying ascent, 5 hours technical descent
Points of Interest:
- World record achievement – highest mountain pass crossing by bike
- Prayer flags and summit celebration at Thorong La
- Sacred Muktinath Temple and eternal flame
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
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day 11Bike from Muktinath to Marpha (3,710m-2,670m)
Fantastic downhill riding through the mystical Mustang desert region. Experience dramatic landscape transformation from high alpine to arid desert environment. Excellent riding conditions on roads with minimal traffic.
Biking Details: 4-5 hours cycling, mostly downhill, 85% rideable terrain
Points of Interest:
- Mustang region’s unique desert landscape and culture
- Traditional Thakali villages and architecture
- Kali Gandaki River gorge entry
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
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day 12Bike from Marpha to Tatopani (2,670m-1,190m)
Epic downhill adventure descending through the world’s deepest gorge between two 8,000-meter peaks. This represents the reward for all previous climbing efforts – pure mountain biking joy through diverse ecosystems.
Biking Details: 6 hours cycling, spectacular long descent, 90% rideable
Points of Interest:
- Apple orchards and famous Marpha apple brandy distilleries
- Massive altitude drop with ecosystem transitions
- Natural hot springs arrival at Tatopani
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
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day 13Relax in Tatopani and Drive to Pokhara (1,190m-822m)
Morning relaxation at Tatopani’s therapeutic natural hot springs – perfect for soothing muscles after challenging high-altitude biking. Afternoon scenic drive to beautiful Pokhara in private vehicle. Hotel accommodation with breakfast included.
Drive Duration: 3-4 hours in private vehicle
Points of Interest:
- Rejuvenating mineral-rich hot springs therapy
- Circuit completion celebration
- Scenic drive through middle hills to Pokhara in private vehicle
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
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day 14Explore Pokhara and Drive to Kathmandu
Free morning in Pokhara for optional activities like boating on Phewa Lake or exploring the lakeside district. Hotel breakfast included. Afternoon drive back to Kathmandu in private vehicle through scenic countryside. Evening celebration farewell dinner with traditional Nepali cultural program to mark the completion of your incredible mountain biking achievement.
Drive Duration: 6-7 hours in private vehicle
Points of Interest:
- Phewa Lake and Pokhara’s relaxed atmosphere
- Hotel breakfast included
- Optional paragliding or other adventure activities
- Private vehicle transfer to Kathmandu
- Traditional Nepali farewell dinner with cultural show
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner
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day 15Departure from Kathmandu
Final breakfast at hotel and bike equipment return. Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport in private vehicle for departure, or extend your Nepal adventure with additional activities. Certificate presentation for completing one of the world’s most challenging mountain biking circuits.
Points of Interest:
- Hotel breakfast included
- Official circuit completion certificates
- Equipment return and final briefing
- Private vehicle airport transfer
- Meal: Breakfast
What's Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off in private company vehicle
- 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara on twin-sharing basis with breakfast included
- Private vehicle transportation for all road transfers (Kathmandu-Besisahar, Tatopani-Pokhara, Pokhara-Kathmandu)
- Government-licensed mountain biking guide (mandatory as per current regulations)
- Porter service to carry overnight gear during the circuit
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card
- Comprehensive pre-trip briefing and route planning session
- Professional bike maintenance support and repair assistance
- Company duffel bag, sun hat, and t-shirt as souvenirs
- Traditional Nepali farewell dinner with cultural show in Kathmandu
- All government fees, taxes, and official expenses
What's Not Included
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu
- Nepal visa fees (available on arrival at airport)
- Travel insurance (mandatory – must cover high-altitude mountain biking and emergency evacuation)
- Mountain bike and safety equipment (recommended to bring your own; rental available locally)
- Personal mountain biking gear, clothing, and sleeping equipment
- All meals during the mountain biking circuit (purchase at local teahouses)
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, internet, beverages, snacks)
- Tips for guides, porters, and support staff
- Additional accommodation before, during, or after the set itinerary
- Emergency evacuation costs (should be covered by travel insurance)
- Excess baggage charges
- Any expenses arising from unforeseen circumstances (flight delays, natural disasters, political situations)
- Optional activities in Pokhara (paragliding, boating, etc.)
- Single room supplement (available on request)
Accommodation during the Trip
In Kathmandu, you will stay in a three-star hotel while you will be staying at standard guesthouses during your travel. There will be electricity, internet, laundry and hot showers in all of the places you stay. You will have to share your room with a fellow traveller in our typical package. Single supplement will be served on request and will cost an additional USD 50.Also note that single rooms is easily available in Kathmandu and the trekking regions at lower elevation but it might be difficult to find them at higher elevations.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking trip?This expedition is rated as very challenging (8/10 difficulty) and requires excellent physical fitness and advanced mountain biking skills. Daily riding involves 4-8 hours of cycling with significant altitude challenges, technical terrain, and frequent bike carrying/pushing sections. The highest point reaches 17,769 feet at Thorong La Pass, where altitude effects are extreme.
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What type of bike do I need?A full-suspension mountain bike is ideal, though a quality hardtail mountain bike is acceptable. Gravel bikes with minimum 2.0" wide tires can work but are not recommended for technical sections. Road bikes are not suitable. Your bike must be in excellent mechanical condition and capable of handling rough, rocky terrain at high altitude.
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How physically fit do I need to be and how should I prepare?You need excellent cardiovascular fitness and should be able to bike 4-8 hours daily while managing your bike on technical terrain. Prepare with:
- Mountain biking training: 4-5 times weekly for 3-4 months
- Cardiovascular training: Running, swimming, cycling
- Strength training: Focus on core, legs, and upper body for bike carrying
- Practice bike carrying: Essential for steep sections and pass crossing
- Altitude training: Beneficial if accessible
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How do I prevent and manage altitude sickness?
- Follow the acclimatization schedule with rest days in Manang
- Ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m in sleeping altitude per day)
- Stay hydrated (3-4 liters of water daily)
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco
- Consider Diamox (Acetazolamide) after consulting your doctor
- Recognize symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue
- Inform your guide immediately if symptoms appear
- Descend if symptoms worsen
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How should I prepare for the Thorong La Pass crossing?Crossing Thorong La Pass on a bike is extremely challenging and requires:
- Proper acclimatization: Spend at least one night at Thorong Phedi
- Early start: Depart around 4:00 AM
- Bike carrying preparation: 3+ hours of carrying to summit
- Appropriate clothing: Layer properly for extreme cold and wind
- Extra food and water: High-energy snacks and 3+ liters of water
- Mental preparation: 8-10 hours total with mostly bike carrying
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What permits do I need and how are they arranged?Two permits are required:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card
- Licensed guide (mandatory as of April 2023)
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How long do I bike each day?Daily biking times vary throughout the circuit:
- Most days involve 4-6 hours of actual cycling/biking time
- The longest day is Thorong La Pass crossing: 8-10 hours (mostly carrying)
- Shorter days around 3-4 hours
- Significant bike pushing/carrying on most days (30-60% of time)
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What about food during the circuit?Meals are NOT included during the biking circuit. Teahouses offer:
- Breakfast: Porridge, pancakes, eggs, tea/coffee
- Lunch and Dinner: Dal Bhat, momos, noodle soups, pasta, fried rice
- Vegetarian options widely available
- Food prices increase with altitude
- Budget $25-35 per day for meals
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What happens in case of an emergency?
- Guides carry first aid kits for basic treatment
- Medical posts available in Manang and Jomsom
- Helicopter evacuation possible to Kathmandu for serious emergencies
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude evacuation is mandatory
- Satellite communication devices available for extreme emergencies
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What additional expenses should I budget for?Daily expenses on the trail:
- Meals: $25-35 per day
- Hot showers: $3-7 per shower
- Wi-Fi: $3-5 per day
- Battery charging: $2-5 per device
- Extra snacks and drinks: $2-8 per item
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fees ($30-$125)
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Personal biking gear
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (exceptbreakfast)
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How much cash should I carry?Carry enough Nepalese Rupees for the entire circuit as ATMs are extremely limited:
- ATMs only in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Jomsom (unreliable)
- Exchange currency before starting the circuit
- Budget approximately $30-40 per day for meals and extras
- Carry small denominations and keep moneysecure
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What is the tipping etiquette?Tipping is expected and important:
- Recommended amount: 10-15% of total trip price
- Tips are pooled and distributed among guides and porters
- Tip guides and porters at the end of their service
- Tips can be given in Kathmandu beforedeparture
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What communication options are available?
- Mobile coverage: Available in most villages but unreliable
- Wi-Fi: Available at teahouses for $3-5 per day (slow speeds)
- Local SIM cards: NCell and Nepal Telecom available in Kathmandu
- Signal strength decreases at higher altitudes
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What's the visa process for Nepal?Tourist visa available at Tribhuvan International Airport:
- 15-day visa: $30 USD
- 30-day visa: $50 USD
- 90-day visa: $125 USD
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Can I customize my trip?Mountain Kick offers flexible customization:
- Private departures with your chosen dates
- Itinerary modifications to add/remove days
- Extensions to include other Nepal experiences
- Accommodation upgrades where available
- Contact us with your preferences for a customized itinerary
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What are the payment terms?
- 20% non-refundable deposit required to confirm booking
- Balance payment due upon arrival in Kathmandu
- Cancellations 20+ days before: 20% penalty
- Cancellations less than 20 days: 100% charge, no refund
- Trip rescheduling fee: $200 per person
Essential Trip Information
Biking Difficulty and Requirements
- Grade: Very Hard (8/10 difficulty rating)
- Requires advanced mountain biking skills and excellent physical fitness
- 30-60% of route involves bike pushing/carrying at high altitude
- Bring your own mountain bike in excellent mechanical condition
Medical Consultation
- Medical consultation essential before your trip – consult with a doctor regarding high-altitude travel and any medications
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude mountain biking up to 18,000 feet and emergency evacuation is mandatory
- Diamox (Acetazolamide) commonly used for altitude sickness prevention – consult your doctor about proper dosage
Vaccinations
- Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, COVID-19, and seasonal influenza
- Consult your healthcare provider at least 4-6 weeks before travel
Spare Days Essential
- Plan 2-3 additional days beyond the standard itinerary to avoid missing international flights due to unpredictable Himalayan weather
- Schedule your international departure at least 2-3 days after planned trip completion
Day Activities
- Optional paragliding and other adventure activities available in Pokhara
- UNESCO World Heritage Site tours available in Kathmandu before or after your expedition
Group Discounts
- Special rates available for groups booking together
- Contact us for specific pricing based on your party size
Packing Checklist
Mountain Biking Equipment
- Mountain bike (full-suspension recommended, hardtail acceptable)
- Bike helmet (mandatory)
- Bike gloves (minimum 3 pairs)
- Cycling glasses/goggles with UV protection
- Padded cycling shorts (minimum 5 pairs for comfort)
- Cycling jerseys – short and long sleeve
- Bike shoes (clipless or flat pedal compatible)
- Bike repair kit (tubes, tire levers, multi-tool, chain tool)
- Bike pump or CO2 cartridges
- Water bottles or hydration system
- Bike lights (front and rear)
- Bike lock for overnight security
We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary. You can customize your itinerary exactly the way you want. Please share with us your ideas.
Customize your trip single
csr
As one of the core guiding principles for Mountain Kick, we always give back to the mountain community in any way we can as a means of gratitude. The people who live in the Himalayas and share their homes with us deserve to have all their little problems fixed which seem very basic for outsiders but are commonplace in rural Nepal. The people lack proper access to healthcare, sanitation and education but a little effort from travellers goes on a long way to solve these issues. Mountain Kick has made it its corporate social responsibility to help improve the living standards of the local community. We make donations to their cause, organize social campaigns and programs and also have a few trips designed to mix a little volunteer work in your holiday.
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