Muktinath to Pokhara Downhill Biking Adventure
●●●●● 4.9 · 60+ TripAdvisor reviewsDescend 2,500m from the sacred heights of Muktinath through the Kali Gandaki gorge to Tatopani on one of the great downhill rides in the Himalayas
On The Trail
What It Really Looks Like
Muktinath to Pokhara Downhill Biking Adventure: What to Expect
Muktinath to Tatopani through the world's deepest river gorge
No redundant climbs, no repeated terrain, only the best riding sections
Support vehicle and professional guide with you from Kathmandu to Pokhara
Start your descent from one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in the Hindu and Buddhist worlds
The Muktinath to Pokhara Downhill Biking Adventure is a 12-day trip built around two of the best descent days in Nepal. After flying from Pokhara to Jomsom and acclimatizing in Kagbeni, you ride up to Muktinath at 3,800m before dropping 2,500m over two riding days through Marpha’s apple orchards, the Kali Gandaki gorge between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, and down to the natural hot springs at Tatopani. From there a vehicle returns you to Pokhara.
The descent days are the entire point of this trip. Day 8 from Muktinath to Marpha drops over 1,000m through high-altitude desert and rocky Mustang terrain. Day 9 from Marpha to Tatopani drops a further 1,480m on mixed trail through some of the most dramatic gorge scenery in Nepal. Both days involve technical terrain including rocky trails, loose surfaces, and river crossings. This trip is rated challenging and is designed for intermediate to advanced mountain bikers with strong technical downhill skills.
MountainKick provides a licensed biking guide and dedicated support vehicle throughout. All meals on riding days are your own cost ordered at each guesthouse, giving you full flexibility on the route. Kumar answers personally if you have questions before booking.
For a longer circuit that includes the full Annapurna route and Tilicho Lake see our Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking trip. For a complete cross-country ride from Kathmandu see the Nepal Cross-Country Biking Adventure.
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 pre-trip briefing covering the full 12-day route, the acclimatization schedule, and what to expect on the two main descent days. Bike fitting and equipment checks are done this evening if you are renting a bike through us
Test Ride and Equipment Check
A guided test ride through Kathmandu Valley on village roads and terraced hillside trails. The morning is used for bike fitting, brake testing, and gear adjustment before heading to altitude. This warm-up ride identifies any mechanical issues that need fixing before leaving Kathmandu and gives you a first feel for Nepali trail conditions
Drive to Pokhara
A scenic drive west through Nepal’s middle hills through terraced farmlands, traditional villages, and river valleys with the first sustained views of the Annapurna range appearing as you approach Pokhara. The evening is free to explore the lakeside promenade and prepare gear for the morning flight to Jomsom
Fly to Jomsom, Ride to Kagbeni
An early morning scenic flight through the Kali Gandaki gorge lands at Jomsom airstrip surrounded by dramatic peaks. Bikes are assembled and the first ride in the legendary Mustang region follows the ancient salt trading route along the river to Kagbeni. This short introductory ride serves as acclimatization while delivering your first look at the unique high-altitude desert landscape
Acclimatization Day in Kagbeni
A full acclimatization day in Kagbeni before the climb to Muktinath. Short rides to nearby monasteries and viewpoints help the body adjust to altitude without overexerting. Kagbeni is a fascinating medieval trading post with narrow mud-brick alleys, ancient Buddhist monuments, and a position at the confluence of two rivers that marks the gateway to Upper Mustang.
Ride to Muktinath
The only significant climbing day of the trip. The trail gains 1,000m through high-altitude desert terrain on rocky jeep track with Nilgiri and the Annapurna range visible across the valley. Muktinath at 3,800m is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in the Hindu and Buddhist worlds, known for its eternal flame, 108 sacred water spouts, and the dramatic mountain backdrop that surrounds the temple complex.
Rest Day and Temple Exploration, Muktinath
A full rest day at 3,800m before the two-day descent begins. The morning is spent exploring the Muktinath temple complex, participating in the purification ritual under the 108 sacred water spouts, and visiting the nearby Jwala Mai Temple with its eternal natural gas flame. The afternoon is for bike maintenance, route briefing, and rest before the descent.
Ride to Marpha
The descent begins. The trail drops from Muktinath through the arid Mustang plateau past Kagbeni and into the Kali Gandaki valley on technical rocky terrain with loose surfaces and river crossings. The landscape shifts from high-altitude desert to the famous apple orchards of Marpha, a beautifully preserved Thakali village with whitewashed stone lanes and its own brandy distillery.
Ride to Tatopani
The crown jewel of the trip. The descent from Marpha through the Kali Gandaki gorge between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna drops 1,480m on mixed singletrack and trail through one of the most dramatic landscapes in Nepal. Tukuche’s historic trading houses and the narrowing of the gorge at Ghasa are both worth a stop before Tatopani and its natural hot springs mark the end of the descent.
Drive to Pokhara
A scenic drive back to Pokhara through the Modi Khola valley, passing through Kushma where Nepal’s highest bungee jump sits 228m above the Kali Gandaki gorge. Arrive in Pokhara by midday with the afternoon free for rest, boating on Phewa Lake, or a lakeside meal after days of teahouse food
Drive to Kathmandu and Farewell Dinner
The return drive east through Nepal’s middle hills back to Kathmandu, arriving by early evening. Farewell dinner with traditional Nepali food and cultural performances closes out the descent from sacred summit to hot springs
Final Departure
Private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport timed to your flight. Your guide sees you off at departures
3D Route Map
Includes & Excludes
-
Airport and hotel transfers Private vehicle, both directions
-
3-star hotel in Kathmandu, 2 nights Twin-sharing, breakfast included
-
Hotel in Pokhara, 2 nights Twin-sharing, Days 3 and 10
-
Guesthouse accommodation on route Twin-sharing, Kagbeni, Muktinath, Marpha, Tatopani
-
All meals Days 3 to 11 Every breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the route. Pokhara dinner on Day 10 on your own
-
Dedicated support vehicle, full trip Bolero jeep for 2 to 5 riders. Carries all luggage so you ride with a daypack only
-
Government-licensed mountain biking guide English speaking, full trip from arrival to departure
-
Porter service above Manang Carries overnight luggage on sections vehicle cannot access
-
Private vehicle Pokhara to Kathmandu Day 11, return journey
-
Private vehicle Tatopani to Pokhara Day 10, after descent section
-
Private vehicle Kathmandu to Pokhara Day 3, departs morning
-
Pokhara to Jomsom domestic flight Day 4, morning flight approximately 20 minutes. Road transfer via Beni if weather cancelled
-
ACAP and TIMS card Trekkers' Information Management System card
-
All government taxes and fees Nothing added after booking
-
International flights To and from Kathmandu
-
Nepal visa $30 / $50 / $125 on arrival at Kathmandu airport
-
Bike rental Standard bike NPR 2,200 per day / Mountain bike $33 per day / Electric bike $100 per day
-
Travel insurance Must cover cycling on mixed terrain and emergency helicopter evacuation
-
Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara Breakfast only at hotels. Pokhara dinner on Day 10 on your own
-
Personal drinks, snacks, and alcohol Throughout the circuit
-
Optional activities Kushma bungee jump, Pokhara paragliding, additional sightseeing
-
Tips for guide, porters, and support staff 10 to 15% of trip cost is standard across Nepal
-
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. Along the route from Kagbeni to Tatopani you stay in teahouse guesthouses with basic twin rooms and shared bathrooms. Facilities are simple throughout the Mustang section. Kagbeni and Muktinath at 3,800m have the most basic conditions with limited electricity and no reliable hot showers. Marpha has better facilities with good guesthouse options. Tatopani is the most comfortable trail stop with natural hot springs a short walk from most guesthouses. Single supplement is available on request but cannot be guaranteed at all guesthouses on the route.
All meals are included from Day 3 in Pokhara through to Day 11 in Kathmandu. In Kathmandu only breakfast is included at the hotel. Dinner in Pokhara on Day 10 is on your own. Guesthouses on the Mustang route serve dal bhat, noodle soups, fried rice, momos, eggs, pasta, and chapati. Food choices narrow above Kagbeni and prices increase with altitude. Vegetarian options are available throughout. A farewell dinner is included on Day 11 in Kathmandu.
| Personal drinks and snacks | $5 to $10 per day |
| Hot shower | $2 to $5 |
| Wi-Fi | $2 to $5 per day |
| Battery charging | $1 to $2 per device |
| Pokhara dinner (Days 8 and 12) | $8 to $20 per meal |
What Our Trekkers Say
“An amazing ride from the mountains to Pokhara”
Jeevan guided us on the Muktinath to Pokhara ride and the change in scenery was incredible, from the dry mountain landscape around Muktinath down into much greener valleys. There were some challenging sections, but the riding was a lot of fun and Jeevan kept everything running smoothly. A brilliant adventure…
“Great biking adventure in Nepal”
We had a fantastic few days cycling downhill from Muktinath with Hari. He knew the route well and was always ready to help when the trail got rough. The views were spectacular, and riding through the villages along the way made it even more memorable. MountainKick did a great job…
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is this trip?
This trip is rated challenging and requires intermediate to advanced mountain biking skills with strong technical downhill ability. The two main descent days involve rocky terrain, loose surfaces, and river crossings over 4 to 7 hours in the saddle. The highest point is Muktinath at 3,800m where altitude effects are common. You do not need racing fitness but you must be comfortable with technical descents and confident on loose trail surfaces.
Do I need to bring my own bike?
No. Bike rental is available as an optional add-on through us at NPR 2,200 per day for a standard bike, $33 per day for a mountain bike, and $100 per day for an electric bike. A full-suspension mountain bike is ideal for the technical Mustang terrain. All rental bikes are checked and adjusted at the Day 2 test ride in Kathmandu.
What type of bike works best on this route?
A full-suspension mountain bike is the best choice for the technical rocky descents from Muktinath to Marpha on Day 8. A quality hardtail with wide tyres of at least 2.2 inches is acceptable for riders with strong technical skills. Road bikes and gravel bikes are not suitable. Electric bikes work well and are a good option for riders who want assistance on the Day 6 climb to Muktinath.
Is the Pokhara to Jomsom flight reliable?
The flight operates in the morning when wind conditions in the Kali Gandaki gorge are most stable. It is generally reliable but can be delayed or cancelled by afternoon winds or low cloud. If the flight is cancelled we travel by road via Beni instead and adjust the riding day accordingly. We always have a backup plan in place and this situation is not unusual on this route.
How does altitude affect this trip?
The majority of the trip is below 3,000m where altitude is not a significant concern. The exception is the Muktinath section on Days 6 and 7 where you sleep at 3,800m. The itinerary includes a full acclimatization day in Kagbeni at 2,800m before the climb to manage this. Common symptoms at this elevation include mild headache and shortness of breath. Inform your guide immediately if symptoms worsen. Read our altitude sickness guide before booking.
Are meals included?
All meals are included from Day 3 in Pokhara through to Day 11 in Kathmandu. In Kathmandu only breakfast is included at the hotel. Dinner in Pokhara on Day 10 is on your own. Guesthouses on the route serve dal bhat, noodle soups, fried rice, eggs, and pasta. Vegetarian options are available throughout. A farewell dinner is included on Day 11 in Kathmandu.
What is the best time of year for this trip?
March to November. The Mustang valley sits in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges which means it receives very little monsoon rainfall, making this one of the few Nepal biking routes that runs reliably through the summer months. October and November give the clearest mountain views. March to May brings warmer temperatures and spring conditions at lower elevations. December to February is cold at Muktinath with possible snow on the trail.
What happens if I cannot complete a riding section?
The support vehicle travels with the group throughout the entire trip specifically for this reason. If you need to skip a section or cut a day short due to fatigue, injury, or weather you ride in the support vehicle for that stretch. No pressure, no judgement. The itinerary is designed with flexibility and no one is left behind because of a rough day.
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.
How does this compare to the Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking trip?
The Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking trip covers the full 300km circuit in 16 days including the Tilicho Lake extension and the Thorong La Pass crossing at 5,416m. It is a more demanding and comprehensive trip requiring advanced fitness and higher altitude experience. The Muktinath to Pokhara trip focuses purely on the best descent sections and is a shorter, more accessible introduction to Mustang biking for riders who want concentrated downhill without the full circuit commitment.
What travel insurance do I need?
Travel insurance covering mountain biking above 3,800m and emergency helicopter evacuation is mandatory for all participants. We will ask for proof of insurance before departure. Helicopter rescue from the Mustang region costs approximately $3,000 to $5,000 without insurance. Purchase your policy before arriving in Nepal and carry a printed copy throughout the trip.
Can I upgrade the return journey to a flight?
Yes. The standard Day 11 return from Pokhara to Kathmandu is by private vehicle, approximately 6 to 7 hours. You can upgrade to a 25-minute domestic flight from Pokhara at an additional cost. Let us know at the pre-trip briefing and we will arrange the flight ticket. The flight option is subject to availability and weather.
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.
- Nothing to pay now
- Plan and price by email
- Confirm with a 20% deposit
"*" indicates required fields
Rather chat? Message us on WhatsApp
-
1
20% deposit: due on booking Secures your place on the departure. The deposit is non-refundable. We also need a copy of your passport.
-
2
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
ⓘ Reliable disc brakes are essential for the long descents from Muktinath. Check your brake pads before arrival and replace if worn. Rental bikes available through us at NPR 2,200 per day for standard, $33 per day for mountain bike, $100 per day for electric.
Clothing and Layers
ⓘ Temperature swings are significant between Pokhara and Muktinath. Pack one warm layer specifically for the two nights at 3,800m. The descent days can start cold but warm up quickly as you lose altitude.
Footwear
ⓘ One footwear system is sufficient for this trip. Bike shoes for riding, trail shoes or sandals for rest days in Kagbeni and Muktinath.
Sleeping and Warmth
ⓘ Sleeping bag liners are available in Thamel if needed. A liner adds warmth and hygiene at the most basic guesthouses on the route.
Head and Hands
ⓘ Warm gloves and a beanie are only essential for the Muktinath section on Days 6 and 7. The descent days warm up quickly as you lose altitude.
Gear and Equipment
ⓘ Your main bag travels in the support vehicle throughout. Keep your daypack under 5kg for all riding days. Disc brake maintenance tools are more important than trekking gear on this trip.
Health and Hydration
ⓘ Your guide carries a basic emergency kit. Talk to your doctor about altitude precautions before the Muktinath section at 3,800m.
Toiletries
ⓘ Hot showers are available at Marpha and Tatopani for a small extra charge. Kagbeni and Muktinath have limited shower facilities. Wet wipes are useful for the higher altitude nights.
Documents and Money
ⓘ Withdraw all cash before Jomsom. No ATMs anywhere on the route after Jomsom. All meals are included so cash needs are minimal on the route.
Trekking in Monsoon (Jun to Aug)
⚠ This trip runs March to November. The Mustang rain shadow means the route is largely unaffected by monsoon. However the Pokhara to Jomsom flight can be affected by monsoon weather on the Pokhara side. December to February is not recommended due to cold temperatures and possible snow on the Muktinath section.
Leave at home
-
Road bike or gravel bike Not suitable for the technical rocky descents from Muktinath to Tatopani. Full-suspension or quality hardtail only.
-
Cotton clothing Absorbs sweat and stays wet. Dangerous at altitude when temperatures drop rapidly
-
Laptop No need and adds serious weight to the support vehicle. Use a phone or tablet instead
-
Valuables and jewellery No safe storage at high altitude guesthouses. Leave anything irreplaceable in Kathmandu
-
Worn brake pads Long descents from 3,800m to 1,190m destroy worn brake pads. Check and replace before arrival.
-
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 bag liners are available in Thamel. Spare brake pads are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara but limited in Jomsom. MountainKick connects you with trusted Thamel gear shops at the pre-trip briefing. A duffel bag is provided for the support vehicle to every rider as part of the package.
Muktinath to Pokhara Downhill Biking Adventure
Talk to Kumar and the team before you commit. Ask about gear, fitness, altitude or a private group.
Tales from the Himalayas
Travel Best Time to Trek Langtang Valley: Month by Month
Langtang is close to Kathmandu and good for much of the year, but the season changes everything from the views…
Annapurna Region Thorong La Pass: A Guide to the Big Day on the Annapurna Circuit
Thorong La at 5,416m is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit. Here’s what crossing day is really like, from…
Everest Region Annapurna Circuit Teahouses: What the Rooms Are Really Like
Teahouses on the Annapurna Circuit range from comfortable lodges in Manang to bare rooms at Thorong Phedi. Here’s what to…