Annapurna Mountain Biking Adventure

Arrive in Pokhara by domestic flight from Kathmandu (25 mins) or scenic drive (6-7 hours). Meet your cycling guide and support team for a trip briefing. Get fitted for your mountain bike - we'll adjust saddle height, handlebars, and ensure everything is comfortable. Take an optional warm-up ride around Phewa Lake to test your bike. Evening at leisure to explore Pokhara's lakeside area.

Begin your adventure with a scenic ride along the Pokhara-Baglung highway. The route follows the Modi Khola and Kali Gandaki rivers through lush subtropical landscapes. Pass through Nepali market towns and terraced rice paddies as you gradually gain elevation. The day's ride is mostly on paved roads, perfect for warming up your legs for the days ahead. Arrive in Beni, the district headquarters of Myagdi.

Enter the Kali Gandaki gorge as you cycle north. The trail narrows and becomes more rugged, with a mix of jeep track and single trails. Pass through traditional villages clinging to the steep valley walls. The gorge deepens dramatically with towering cliffs on either side. Arrive at Tatopani (meaning "hot water") and relax your muscles in the natural hot springs by the river - a perfect reward after a challenging day.

A challenging climb awaits as you ascend through the gorge. The trail passes through Dana village and climbs steeply with dramatic views of waterfalls cascading down cliff faces. You'll begin to see the first glimpses of snow-capped peaks above the gorge walls. The vegetation transitions from subtropical to temperate forest. Ghasa marks the gateway to the upper Mustang region.

One of the most scenic days of the tour. Cycle through the narrow gorge between two 8,000m peaks - Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri. The landscape transforms dramatically from green forests to arid, Tibetan-style terrain. Pass through Kalopani with its stunning mountain views and continue to Marpha, a picturesque medieval village famous for its apple orchards and brandy. Wander the cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed houses.

A relatively easy ride through the wind-swept Kali Gandaki valley. The landscape is now distinctly Tibetan with barren hills, Buddhist monasteries, and prayer flags fluttering in the ever-present wind. Visit the Thakali villages known for their hospitality and cuisine. Jomsom is the largest town in the region and administrative center of Mustang. Optional afternoon side trip to explore the old town.

The most challenging day - climbing to the sacred temple of Muktinath. The trail ascends through arid, high-altitude terrain with spectacular views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and the Thorong La pass. The final stretch to Muktinath is steep and demanding but incredibly rewarding. Visit the ancient temple sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, featuring eternal flames and 108 water spouts. Overnight at the highest point of your journey.

An exhilarating descent day! After a morning visit to Muktinath Temple and the nearby Jwala Mai Temple with its eternal natural gas flames, begin the thrilling downhill ride back through Jomsom and Marpha. The descent is fast and exciting, covering ground that took days to climb. Stop in Marpha for fresh apple pie before continuing to Kalopani, where you'll have stunning sunset views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna.

Continue your descent through the narrowing gorge, passing waterfalls and lush vegetation as you drop in altitude. Stop again at Tatopani for a final soak in the hot springs and lunch. The afternoon brings you back to Beni where the cycling portion of your journey concludes. Celebrate your achievement with your team over a special dinner.