Muktinath to Pokhara Downhill Biking Adventure
Descend 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
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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, 2 nights Twin-sharing, Days 3 and 10
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Guesthouse accommodation on route Twin-sharing, Kagbeni, Muktinath, Marpha, Tatopani
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All meals Days 3 to 11 Every breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the route. Pokhara dinner on Day 10 on your own
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Dedicated support vehicle, full trip Bolero jeep for 2 to 5 riders. Carries all luggage so you ride with a daypack only
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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 vehicle Pokhara to Kathmandu Day 11, return journey
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Private vehicle Tatopani to Pokhara Day 10, after descent section
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Private vehicle Kathmandu to Pokhara Day 3, departs morning
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Pokhara to Jomsom domestic flight Day 4, morning flight approximately 20 minutes. Road transfer via Beni if weather cancelled
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ACAP and 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 cycling on mixed terrain and emergency helicopter evacuation
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Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara Breakfast only at hotels. Pokhara dinner on Day 10 on your own
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Personal drinks, snacks, and alcohol Throughout the circuit
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Optional activities Kushma bungee jump, Pokhara paragliding, 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 — At No Extra Cost
Where 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…
“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.
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20% Deposit — Due on booking Secures your place on the departure. Refundable within cancellation window.
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80% Balance — Due on arrival Pay the remainder in Kathmandu before the trip begins. Bank transfer, card, or cash accepted.
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Bhutan & Tibet — Full payment 20 days prior Full balance required at least 20 days before departure for Bhutan and Tibet tours.
| 30+ days before departure | Deposit forfeited, balance refunded in full |
| 15–29 days before departure | 50% of total trip cost charged |
| Under 15 days | No refund |
| MountainKick cancels trip | Full refund or reschedule |
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.
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Packing List
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Mountain bike, full-suspension or hardtail | 1 | Full-suspension strongly recommended for the technical rocky descents from Muktinath to Tatopani. Hardtail with 2.2 inch tyres minimum acceptable. Rentable through us. |
| Bike helmet | 1 | Mandatory. Bring your own for fit and safety. Confirm rental availability with us in advance. |
| Padded cycling shorts or bibs | 3 pairs | Minimum 3 pairs for 3 riding days. Comfort on rocky technical terrain depends on this more than anything else. |
| Cycling gloves, full finger | 3 pairs | 3 pairs |
| Full finger only. Lose one pair and you still have two. Essential for rocky terrain. | 2 each | One short sleeve for lower sections, one long sleeve for above Manang. |
| Windproof cycling jacket | 1 | For descents above 3,500m. The Kali Gandaki gorge descent can be very cold. |
| Bike shoes, clipless or flat pedal | 1 pair | Compatible with your pedal system. Must be broken in before arrival. |
| Bike repair kit | 1 set | Inner tubes x3, tyre levers, multi-tool, chain tool, chain lube, patch kit. |
| Bike pump or CO2 cartridges | 1 | CO2 is lighter. Carry both if possible. |
| Bike lock | 1 | For overnight security at guesthouses. |
| Hydration pack or water bottles | 2L minimum | Carry on the bike. Drink constantly above 3,500m. |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture-wicking base layer tops | 2 | Merino or synthetic. No cotton at any altitude. |
| Thermal base layer bottoms | 1 | For Thorong High Camp night and Tilicho Lake hike. |
| Fleece jacket | 1 | For cool evenings at Daman and Muktinath |
| Down jacket | 1 | For Muktinath nights where temperatures drop below 5°C and cool mornings in Kagbeni |
| Waterproof shell jacket with hood | 1 | For rain on lower sections and wind on the Muktinath approach |
| Sun hat or cap | 1 | UV is extreme above 3,000m and on open trail sections. |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Bike shoes | 1 pair | For all rideable sections. Must be compatible with your pedal system. |
| Cycling socks | 5 pairs | For riding days. Enough for the full circuit. |
| Camp sandals | 1 pair | For teahouse evenings and guesthouse recovery. |
| Light trail shoes or sneakers | For off-bike days in Chitwan, Pokhara, and Kathmandu |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | ecommended for the two nights at Muktinath at 3,800m where rooms are unheated and temperatures drop below 5°C. All accommodation provides bedding. |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Warm beanie | 1 | For cold mornings above Manang and Thorong High Camp night. |
| Neck gaiter or buff | 2 | For cold mornings in Kagbeni and Muktinath before the descents begin |
| Liner gloves, thin | 1 pair | For trail use and cold morning starts on the bike. |
| Insulated gloves | 1 pair | For the Muktinath section and cool morning starts above Daman |
| Sunglasses, UV protection | 1 pair | For the Muktinath section and cold morning starts on descent days |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Daypack 25 to 35L with rain cover | 1 | Carries everything you need on the bike each day. Support vehicle takes the main bag. |
| Headlamp with spare batteries | 1 | For early morning starts and teahouse power cuts in Kagbeni and Muktinath |
| Dry bags | 3 | Electronics and documents inside main bag and daypack |
| Water purification tablets or filter | 1 | Saves money and reduces plastic across 14 riding days. |
| Power bank 20,000mAh | 1 | Charging costs at high altitude guesthouses. Keep in sleeping bag overnight in cold. |
| Small padlock | 1 | For main bag at guesthouses. |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Sunscreen SPF 50 | 2 | Reapply every 2 hours above Namche equivalent altitude. Bring a spare. |
| Lip balm with SPF | 2 | Wind and altitude crack lips fast from Manang onward. |
| Electrolyte powder sachets | 20 | Mix into water daily on the Muktinath section. Less critical at lower elevations. |
| High protein snacks and energy bars | As needed | For the descent days. Guesthouses cover regular meals throughout. |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | Blister treatment, antiseptic, bandages, ibuprofen, Imodium, rehydration sachets. |
| Altitude sickness tablets Diamox | As needed | Consult your doctor before trek. Not a substitute for proper acclimatization. |
| Chamois cream | Apply daily before descent days. Technical terrain is hard on saddle comfort over long descents. |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Microfiber towel | 1 | Guesthouses do not provide towels. |
| Hand sanitizer | 2 small | Not always water available before meals on trail. |
| Biodegradable wet wipes | 3 packs | Limited showers above Manang and at Tilicho Base Camp. |
| Toilet paper | 3 rolls | Guesthouses on the Mustang section can run out. Always carry your own. |
| Earplugs | 2 pairs | Guesthouse walls are thin across 14 nights of shared accommodation. |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Passport, valid 6 months | 1 | Keep a photocopy separate. Required at ACAP checkpoints throughout. |
| Travel insurance document | 1 | Must cover high-altitude mountain biking above 5,500m and helicopter evacuation. Printed copy required. |
| Cash, Nepali rupees | As needed | Budget $5 to $10 per day for personal drinks and extras. ATMs in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Jomsom only. No ATMs at Kagbeni, Muktinath, Marpha, or Tatopani. |
| Permit copies | 1 set | We handle all permits. Carry your copies at all ACAP checkpoints. |
| Item | Note |
|---|---|
| Rain poncho | The Mustang valley is in the rain shadow so heavy rain is unlikely but pack one poncho for lower elevation sections |
| Leech socks | Active on lower trail sections between Besisahar and Chamje from June onwards |
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.
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