Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking & Trek
Throng La Pass & Tilicho Lake
14Days-13 Nights/5,416m (17,769 feet)
OVERVIEW
Destination Covered :
Pokhra - Besisahar - Chamje - Chame - Manang - Tilicho Base Camp- Tilicho Lake - Shree Kharka - Ledar - High Camp - Mukthinath - Pokhra
Annapurna Circuit, which circumnavigates the massif is one of the world’s premier mountain biking destinations.Annapurna is the best area in Nepal for alpine biking, as the trails enable you to cover large distances, yet you’re surrounded by 7000-metre peaks.
QUICK INFO ON ANNAPURNA BIKING CIRCUIT:
-
TRIP STARTING LOCATION : POKHRA
-
TRIP END LOCATION : POKHRA
-
BIKE USED : RENTAL MTB CYCLE
-
TRIP DURATION : 14 DAYS AND 13 NIGHTS
-
PLACES COVERED : Pokhra - Besisahar - Chamje - Chame - Manang - Tilicho Base Camp- Tilicho Lake - Shree Kharka - Ledar - High Camp - Mukthinath - Pokhra
-
ACCOMMODATION : Tea House & Hotel
-
DIFFICULTY : Advanced
-
GUIDE : ENGLISH-HINDI-SPEAKING GUIDES
-
BACK UP : VAN/PICK UP CAR WITH SNACKS AND DRINKS, CARRIES EXTRA LUGGAGE,SPARES
-
WHEN : MARCH 15TH TO MARCH 28TH /SEPTEMBER MID /OCTOBER MID
-
FUN : UNLIMITED
ABOUT ANNAPURNA BIKING CIRCUIT RIDE
The Annapurna Circuit is one of the world's most beautiful high-altitude hiking trails, winding its way through some of Nepal's tallest mountains and encircling Annapurna I, which towers at 26,545 feet (8,091m). The route itself tops out at an astounding 17,769 feet (5,416m) as it crosses Thorung La Pass.
Have the ultimate mountain bike experience as you experience the Annapurna Circuit by mountain bike.This extraordinary Annapurna Circuit Biking trip takes you to some of the most stunning and exotic biking routes in Nepal.
Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour is a once-in-a-lifetime mountain biking journey through one of Nepal’s most legendary trekking trails, now transformed into a thrilling cycling route.
Touching down in Kathmandu, the journey begins as you head westward to the Annapurna foothills, where you'll begin the ride. Even before the air starts to thin, the trails through the lower Himalaya are fast, steep, and flowy. Pushing higher, we'll ride alongside trekkers and herds of yak on centuries-old paths through mountainside Sherpa villages. The route winds through a vast variety of climates: subtropical jungles, alpine forests, and desolate rocky terrain. What the route lacks in oxygen it makes up for in dramatic views, kind locals, and amazing cuisine. On route, the logistics are quite easy, food stops are plentiful.
To top it all, the crossing of the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) is a challenging ascent, surrounded by some of the most magnificent mountain sceneries in the world.The trip reaches its peak at Thorong La, the highest pass of the Annapurna circuit at 5,416 meters, and a bucket list ride down if there ever was one.
ABOUT OUR AMAZING TREK TO TILICHO LAKE :
Tilicho Lake is one of the Highest elevated lakes in the world. The Tilicho lake is elevated to a height of 4,949 Meters but some other sources say it is 4,919 Meters. Lake Tilicho with an area of 1.853 mi² is just in front of Tilicho Peak. The way to Tilicho is amazing because you can see an amazing view of Mt Himlung and Mt Manaslu together with many other small peaks located on the border between Annapurna and Manaslu Range. The Lake is filled with blue glacier waters and there is no place where you can see the water discharge. Many hikers visit Tilicho Lake which takes about 3-4 days from the Annapurna circuit trek to see the Immense beauty of Tilicho Lake.
DIFFICULTY :
The Annapurna Circuit bikepacking route has been assigned a difficulty of 8 out of 10. About half of the route is on a reasonably maintained jeep track, but there are lots of technical climbs with hairpin turns on loose gravel with big rocks. The oxygen deficiency at high altitude also adds significantly to the overall difficulty. The lack of oxygen makes it feel like you’re breathing through a straw, especially while pushing your loaded bike up an incline that sometimes reaches 40%. The good news is you don’t have to carry much food, cooking gear, or even a tent. The next teahouse is never more than 10 kilometers away, but on the Annapurna Circuit, that short distance could easily take half a day. Plan ahead and carry energy-dense snacks.
ROUTE CHOICE & DEVELOPMENT
The official Annapurna hiking route starts in Besisahar. For cycling it makes a lot more sense to start in Pokhara. Most hotels in Pokhara are located along the Lakeside Road, so it is logical to start and end there. The bikepacking version follows much of the same route as the Annapurna Circuit hiking trail, but cyclists use the jeep track until Manang. After Manang the jeep track runs out and the route follows the hiking trail. You’ll receive a paper map of the route when you purchase your permits. This map is made for hiking but it can be used for cycling as well. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a well-established route and for the most part there is only one road to follow.
LOGISTICS :
Kathmandu International Airport. Most people fly in and out at the international airport in Kathmandu. From Kathmandu there are busses to Pokhara or Besisahar, the official starting point for most hikers since it’s closer to the trail. Clockwise vs. counterclockwise. Because the Annapurna Circuit is a loop, it’s possible to ride clockwise or counterclockwise from Pokhara. Go clockwise for a gentler gradient to Thorung La Pass or counterclockwise for a slightly more rideable trail down. We preferred a steady climb so we could stick to the rule of not climbing more than 500 meters per day above 3,500 meters. Altitude sickness is something to take seriously in Nepal.Permits. Before starting, you’re required to obtain two necessary permits (ACAP & TIMS) to enter the “Restricted Areas.” You need to apply for these at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or in Pokhara. The costs are approximately $40 USD and you’ll need three passport photos. Money. There are no ATMs along the trail, so make sure you’ll bring enough cash for the whole circuit. We worked with a budget of 10 USD per person a day and that was more than enough for us. Be sure you have crisp euros or dollars upon arriving at KTM airport to pay for the visa on arrival in cash.Bicycle and tires. The ideal bicycle would probably be a full-suspension mountain bike. However, the trail is suitable for gravel and touring bicycles with slightly wider rubber. The trail is mixed: rocky, dusty, hard packed gravel, and even some asphalt. We rode the Annapurna Circuit with Schwalbe Marathon 2.0” tires, which is the minimum width you can comfortably ride the route on. Next time we would go with wider and chunkier tires. Anything wider than 2.3” will do.
RIDE HIGHLIGHTS
RIDE HIGHLIGHTS
-
Cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest cycling routes in the worl
-
Enjoy cultural interactions with Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced communities
-
Cycle alongside rivers, waterfalls, deep gorges, and panoramic Himalayan peaks
-
Riding along the popular trails of the Annapurna Circuit.
-
One of the short and best cycling paths in the scenic Himalayan range
-
Cover historical monument visit in Kathmandu, stay and explore natural city Pokhara
-
Typical local villages, peoples, temples, monasteries, Natural hot spring and many more
TREK HIGHLIGHTS
-
Trekkers can achieve an altitude of 4960 Meters which is really great to do the thorong la pass.
-
It offers a spectacular view of the Annapurna and Mt Manaslu range mountains with colourful landscapes among the trails.
-
You will see the officially highest lake in Nepal which is just in front of the Tilicho Peak.
-
Local people and their cultures among the trails are other things that you will enjoy here.
-
Annapurna II 7940 Meters, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, tilicho peak, Mt Manaslu 8153 Meters, Chulu east and west, Thorong peak, Mt Dhaulagiri 8,167 Meters and many other peaks you can see on this tilicho lake trek
ITINERARY DETAILS
Day 01 :At your own reach Pokhra by Drive/Fly from kathmandu
Arrival in Pokhra by 9 am (827 meters (2,713 feet)
Today we Drive to Besisahar (760m / 2,493ft, 106 km, 4–6 hrs)
Day 1:Arrival in Pokhra Namaste and Welcome to Nepal & We take you on further journey on a lovely Drive on Private car to Besisahar, we will make our way to Besisahar in Lamjung. A beautiful town nestled in between hills, it is situated right next to the Marsayangdi River. This is one of the hubs for the starting of many trekking journeys in this region. Pre-Biking Meeting carried ot in the evening and Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 02 :Cycling to chyamche
(1,430 meters (4,690 feet), 38 km, 7–8 hrs)
Day 02: Cycling to Tal (1,700m / 5,577ft, 38 km, 7–8 hrs) Our cycling journey kicks off with a rough yet scenic trail following the Marsyangdi River. The route takes us through forested paths, small villages, and suspension bridges. Most of the trail is rideable, with a few sections where porters may assist. We reach Tal, a charming village by the river, and spend the night at a teahouse.
Day 03 :Cycling to Chame
(2,670m / 8,760ft, 23 km, 6–7 hrs)
Day 03 :Cycling to Chame (2,670m / 8,760ft, 23 km, 6–7 hrs) Today’s ride includes both cycling and bike-pushing, especially in the first stretch up to Danaque. From there, the trail smooths out as we continue cycling through pine forests and dramatic cliffside paths. Towering peaks begin to appear as we approach the district center of Chame. Overnight at a teahouse.
Day 04 :Cycling to Manang (3,540m / 11,614ft, 30 km, 6–7 hrs)
Day 04 :Cycling to Manang (3,540m / 11,614ft, 30 km, 6–7 hrs) We ascend gradually, passing apple orchards, prayer walls, and alpine pastures. After Pisang, the trail opens into a broad valley, offering spectacular Himalayan views. While trekkers often stop at Pisang, we continue further and reach the culturally rich village of Manang for the night.
Day 05 :Acclimatization Day in Manang (3,540m / 11,614ft)
Day 05 :Acclimatization Day in Manang (3,540m / 11,614ft) Today is all about rest and adaptation. You can explore the village, visit local monasteries, or hike to Gangapurna Lake for breathtaking views. Light cycling is optional, but taking it easy will help your body adjust to the altitude. The ride towards Nubra Valley is scenic and exhilarating through Khardung La, The highest motorable road on earth. Capture amazing pictures with your motorcycle & team after reaching Khardung La and then we hit the road quickly as it is not safe to spend much time on top of the pass due to the high altitude and thin air. We stop for lunch after riding down from the pass and then continue our journey.We will make a stop at Diskit Monastery for prayers. Our arrival in the valley will be welcomed by the white sand dunes and the sightings of the double-hump Bactrian camels grazing. Overnight stay at guest house.
Day 06 :Biking from Manang to Sri Kharka (4150m) via Khangsar (3734m)
Day 06 :Biking from Manang to Sri Kharka (4150m) via Khangsar (3734m), lodge
Day 07 :Hiking Tilicho Lake Base camp to Tilicho Lake (4920m) and Back to Sri Kharka.
Day 07 :Hiking Tilicho Lake Base camp to Tilicho Lake (4920m) and Back to Sri Kharka. Today we ride towards the most photographed & beautiful Lake in Ladakh, Pangong Lake.It is a day of riding through slushy muddy & water crossings. Few water crossings en route are so huge and challenging, nothing like you have seen before. Later, face hilly curves along the Shyok river. Most of our ride is going to be along the beautiful Shyok River and through the villages like Agham, Shyok, Durbuk, and Tangste. After crossing Durbuk, the last stretch of the ride is going to be along the lake. Upon reaching Pangong, we will check in to our cottages where we will have dinner followed by an overnight stay. Overnight camp stays near the Pangong lake at Tangste or Spangmik..
Day 08 :Biking from Sri Kharka to Ledar
(4,230 meters (13,878 feet), 19 km, 3–4 hrs)
Day 08 :Biking from Sri Kharka to Ledar (4,230 meters (13,878 feet), 19 km, 3–4 hrs) The trail climbs steadily as we head deeper into alpine terrain. The ride becomes more challenging due to the thinner air, but the scenery is outstanding. Expect to cycle about 60–70% of the trail; the rest may involve pushing or assistance from porters. Overnight at a teahouse in Yak Kharka.
Day 9 :Cycling to Thorong Phedi High Camp
(4,925m / 16,158ft, 12 km, 4–5 hrs)
Day 9 :Cycling to Thorong High Camp (4,925m / 16,158ft, 12 km, 4–5 hrs) Today is physically demanding. The trail is steep and technical, with several sections requiring you to carry your bike. High Camp is a rugged but essential stop before crossing the pass. Rest well and hydrate for the big day tomorrow.
Day 10 :Cross Thorong La Pass, Cycling towards Muktinath
(3,760m / 12,336ft, 20 km, 7–8 hrs)
Day 10 :Cross Thorong La Pass, Cycling to Muktinath (3,760m / 12,336ft, 20 km, 7–8 hrs) We begin our ascent early around 4:00 am to cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416m / 17,769ft), the highest point of the journey. The push to the pass is a challenging one, which only makes it that much more rewarding. Just wait until you see the prayer flags that mark the high point- it is an incredible feeling! Once we get to the pass, we will descend almost 6000 ft of amazing singletrack all the way to Muktinath.After celebrating at the summit with photos and stunning views, we descend via thrilling downhill trails to the sacred site of Muktinath. Overnight at a teahouse.
Day 11 :Cycling to Marpha (2,670m / 8,760ft, 32 km, 6–7 hrs)
Day 11 :Cycling to Marpha (2,670m / 8,760ft, 32 km, 6–7 hrs) Today’s ride takes you through the windy, barren landscape of Lower Mustang. The road is smoother and mostly paved, making for a fast and enjoyable cycle down to Marpha, a village famous for its apple orchards and local brandy. Overnight at a teahouse.
Day 12 :Cycling to Tatopani (1,190m / 3,904ft, 42 km, 5–6 hrs)
Day 12 :Cycling to Tatopani (1,190m / 3,904ft, 42 km, 5–6 hrs) The trail descends alongside the Kali Gandaki River with occasional detours to villages and waterfalls, including the stunning Rupse Chhahara. Once in Tatopani, you can unwind in the natural hot springs—perfect for sore muscles. Overnight at a lodge.
Day 13 :Cycling to Beni (899m / 2,949ft, 25 km, 3–4 hrs), Drive to Pokhara
Day 13 :Cycling to Beni (899m / 2,949ft, 25 km, 3–4 hrs), Drive to Pokhara Our final ride takes us on a gentle route down to Beni. After a relaxed lunch, we load our bikes and drive back to Pokhara. Arriving by evening, we settle into a hotel and enjoy lakeside leisure time. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 14 - Final Departure Day-
At your own Drive/Fly Pokhra to kathmandu
Day 14 :Final Departure Day Option 1: You can also take a flight (which takes 35 minutes) from Pokhara.You can end your trip with us here. Option 2: We will assist & Guide you to get a Cab/Bus to Kathmandu. It will take 6 hours to reach Kathmandu with the scenery view of the countryside from the bus window. After you get to Kathmandu we say good bye , you can explore the city and its surroundings on your own. You can visit local attractions, wander through the bustling streets and regional cuisine, or relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Kathmandu.Take home memories of a thrilling cycling journey through the heart of the Himalayas.
PACKAGE INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
SECTION A: PACKAGE INCLUSIONS
-
Airport/ Bus stand transfers in Pokhra on arrival and departure.
-
All ground transportation as per itinerary, including:Private air-conditioned vehicle for sightseeing and transfers
-
Assistance/Help in booking your personal drive from Kathmandu to Beshisahar by public transport
-
Assistance/Help in booking your personal drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus
-
Accommodation for 13 nights at carefully selected hotels, resorts, lodges, guesthouses, and teahouses as per the itinerary.
-
Hotel accommodation with breakfast in Pokhara.
-
Daily breakfast at hotels and Tea houses from the day following arrival.
-
All meals during the cycling trip as specified in the itinerary:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (B, L, D)
-
Lunch and dinner included during cycling days (excluding Kathmandu and Pokhara unless mentioned)
-
Standard good condition MTB-Mountain bike and mandatory riding gear for the duration of the trip.
-
Professional and experienced mountain biking guide throughout the cycling journey.
-
Support Car-Porter assistance with crew throughout the cycling trip to carry mountain bikes, luggage, and essential equipment.
-
Guide and support crew expenses, including salary, food, and accommodation.
-
All required permits and paperwork, including:
-
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
-
TIMS Card
-
Mountain biking permits and conservation fees
-
Well-equipped medical kit with essential medications available during the cycling trip.
-
Emergency helicopter rescue arrangement (arrangement only; rescue cost payable by the traveler’s insurance).
-
Tatopani hot spring entrance fee.
-
All applicable government and local taxes.
SECTION B: PACKAGE EXCLUSIONS:
-
International flight tickets and applicable airport taxes.
-
Domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
-
Nepal visa fees / visa cost.
-
Airport, railway station, or bus stop pick-up and drop services.
-
Any airfare or rail fare other than what is specifically mentioned in the “Inclusions” section.
-
Cost of any spare parts required due to accidental damage incurred while the MTB is in the cyclist’s possession.
-
Expenses incurred for transferring or towing the MTB in case it is dropped or disabled en route.
-
MTB servicing or maintenance costs during the tour.
-
Adventure travel insurance, personal insurance, and helicopter rescue services in case of emergency.
-
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
-
Any additional meals, snacks, or refreshments not mentioned in the package inclusions.
-
Personal expenses such as telephone calls, laundry, tips, table drinks, and similar items.
-
Parking charges and monument entry fees during sightseeing.
-
Monument entrance fees during sightseeing in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
-
Additional accommodation or meal costs arising due to delays.
-
Any expenses incurred due to itinerary changes or extensions caused by natural calamities, road blocks, vehicle breakdowns, union issues, or other factors beyond our control.
-
Single-occupancy accommodation will attract an additional supplement and must be confirmed prior to the ride.
-
Any other services or expenses not expressly mentioned under the “Inclusions” section.
