Annapurna Round Biking Trip
Trip Overview
Round Annapurna Biking is an exhilarating trip that provides a taste of all the different trails, from rugged terrain to some paved road experiences, starting from Manang and ending at Mustang. This trip is challenging and is recommended for experienced cyclists.Â
Prepare for a test of your physical and mental capabilities as you pass through one of Nepal’s highest passes, Thorang La, at an altitude of 5416 meters. Surrounded by a range of Himalayas, the pass is a rewarding challenge. Shredding through the Himalayas’ single tracks will add a thrilling adrenaline experience, making this trip a must for adventure enthusiasts seeking a physical and mental challenge. The sense of accomplishment you’ll feel at the end of this journey is unparalleled. Within twelve days of your trip, landscape and altitude change from Besisahar to Thorang La Pass and down to Jomsom.
The trail starts with a moderate drive to Besisahar at Lamjung, starting with a long three-day ride alongside the Marsyangdi River. The first few days also provide views of cascading waterfalls, crossing the dispersed settlements of Gurung villages and slowly changing to Tibetan settlements. You will ride through several mani walls and stupas while enjoying the views of snow-capped mountains. You will be awed by the landscape and architecture of Manang. This village has a lot of stories about Tibetan migration and Buddhism. You will also share the trails with mules and yaks, adding a fun experience to your journey to Round Annapurna. The cultural experiences along the way, from the unique architecture of Manang to the stories of Tibetan migration, will add a unique dimension to your adventure.
The big day to Thorang La pass will be the toughest as you will be riding and pushing your bike above 4500 meters, which will require a determined mindset once you’re at the top after a prolonged hardship in the range of mountains like Gangapurna, Tilicho, Kangaru, Pisang, the Chulu range, and Thorong Peak. A welcome board in a pile of stones with numerous prayer flags marks the last point of the pass. Shredding down the Thorang La pass will be an epic experience since you will find wavering tight switchbacks, single tracks, and rocky terrain to Muktinath.
 After the challenging ascent, Muktinath, a place of spiritual energy and significance, awaits. This religious site, a popular pilgrimage destination, offers a unique opportunity to connect with the spiritual side of Nepal. After worshiping at the temple, you’ll follow the Kali Gandaki River to Beni, passing through essential villages like Kagbeni, Jomsom, Marpha, and Tatopani. At Tatopani, immerse yourself in the natural hot spring, a perfect way to soothe your tired muscles and calm your mind. As you head back, reflect on the unique and memorable experiences of your Round Annapurna journey.
Transportation
Domestic Flight/Bus&Jeep
Per Day Cycling
5 to 9 hours
Best Season
Oct-Dec / Mar-May
Group Size
1 - 14 Pax
Accomodation
Hotel/Tea House
Trip Grade
Strenuous
Max Height
5416M
Start/End
Kathmandu
Trip Highlight
- Ride through the dispersed settlements and terraced farmlands of the Annapurna Region.
- Indelive in the culture and lifestyle of Gurung, Magar, and Tibetan people.
- Be captivated by multiple cascading waterfalls in the breathtaking Annapurna Region, a true wonder of nature.Â
- Share the trails with yaks and mules.
- Taste the high-altitude apple and freshly made apple pie.
- Chance to visit Milarepa Cave, Ice Lake, and Gangapurna Lake.
- Visit the ancient monasteries in Manang.
- Pedal in the high-altitude winding, natural single tracks.
- Pass the highest Thorang La (5,416 m).
- Offers views of the magnificent Annapurna Massif (Annapurna I-IV), Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, and Paungda Danda.
- Get your adrenaline pumping as you shred the steep, rough, technical downhill from Thorang La to Muktinath, a thrilling adventure you won’t forget.
- A cold shower in 108 stone taps in Muktinath.
- Experience the dramatic high-altitude landscapes and rocky hills, a testament to the diverse beauty of the Annapurna Region.
- Ride in the narrow alleys of Marpha village.
- Delve in the natural hot spring at Tatopani.
Download Complete Trip PDF
Detail Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), a company representative or a guide will welcome you and ensure a seamless transfer to the hotel. Rest assured, our hotels in Kathmandu are hand-picked with great care, focusing on top-notch hygiene and cleanliness to provide you with a comfortable and pleasant stay. A guide and a driver will be assigned according to the day's plan for shopping, side strolls, and welcome dinner, ensuring your needs are met.
Kathmandu, with its rich culture and vibrant lifestyle, can be a fascinating experience, especially for a first-time visitor to Nepal. As you explore the city, you will be captivated by the diversity and unique customs of the Nepalese people. However, it's important to be cautious while navigating the streets and alleys, and to avoid unsolicited interactions. To fully appreciate your visit, we recommend learning about Kathmandu's culture and customs in advance, which will enhance your experience and prevent any culture shock or inconvenience.
Welcome Dinner
Hotel
A vehicle will come to receive you in the hotel, and we will delve into our journey to Besisahar, following the main Prithvi Highway from Thankot following the Trishuli River. We will take a turn from Damauli towards the north to Besisahar. Rest assured, you will pass through several hills, small villages, and farming lands on the right side of the road in a comfortable and safe journey to Besisahar.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Guest House
Our path follows the Marsyangdi River, offering a picturesque view on the right side of the trail. Today's journey will take us through a string of quaint small villages. We'll kick off with a short descent from Besisahar, steadily climbing to Tal. A satisfying lunch break awaits us at Jagat. As we progress, be prepared to be mesmerized by the sight of numerous waterfalls, each a breathtaking display of nature's beauty, gracing both sides of the trail.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Tea House
After a serene morning in Taal, we will continue our journey alongside the Marsyangdi River. Passing through scenic villages—Dharapani, Dhanakyu, and Koto—we will reach Chame. At Dharapani, a stop at the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit checkpoint is scheduled. The trail, a jeep track, will lead us to our final destination, with both gradual and steep climbs. These climbs, designed to test your endurance, will prepare you for the trek ahead. As you conquer these challenges, you will be rewarded with the sight of the magnificent Annapurna II (7,937 m) and the grandeur of Lamjung Himal (6,983 meters).
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Tea House
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Today's journey is a feast for the eyes, filled with breathtaking landscapes. We will cross several mani walls, each a unique piece of local art, and observe the local people's lifestyles. Our stop at the famous Apple farm just before Manang is a treat for the senses, where we can enjoy fresh apple juice and pie. Carrying the taste, we continue our journey, with a dramatic landscape unfolding as we climb towards Manang. The magnificent views of the snow-capped Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), and others from Manang will surely inspire awe and amazement.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Tea House
Today, we will spend another night at Manang checking in. Acclimatization day is crucial for your well-being, allowing you to reflect on the previous trekking days and your health to avoid or prevent any problems ahead. We have many options in Manang for the acclimatization hike or bike. We can walk towards the nearby viewpoint and visit Gangapurna Tal(Lake), which will be for 2 hours. Hike. You can also ride your bike to Ice Lake, which takes around 5-6 hrs. To and forth. Enjoy the unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and rich, unique culture of the local people of Manang, as well as their warm hospitality.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Tea House
After a nourishing breakfast with panoramic views of Manang, we set off for our next destination- Thorang Phedi. Our route takes us through the Yak Kharka and Ledar villages, offering a less crowded trail with numerous steep rocky climbing sections and winding single tracks. The sight of yaks grazing in the open field adds to the charm. We'll also have the thrill of crossing several suspension bridges. As we approach Thorang Phedi, we'll navigate a landslide-prone area, which reminds us to be prepared and cautious in every step we take.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Tea House
Today will be the most extraordinary and challenging day. The trail starts with a steep climb towards the high camp and many winding single tracks. The terrain can be rugged, and the weather unpredictable, so it's important to be prepared with the right gear and mindset. However, we will encounter an incredible sunrise and the Himalayan range. You can also get the opportunity to spot mountain goats and dance. Every breath can be a struggle, but there's no defeat to strong willpower. The ultimate reward awaits at the top of Thorang La Pass: a sense of accomplishment that will inspire and motivate you. The Thorong La Pass Trek includes beautiful views of high mountains such as Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Mt. Annapurna 1st (8091 m), Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), Mt. Nilgiri (7041m), Mt. Fishtail, or Mt. Machhapuchhre (6998 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6441 m), and also Mt. LamjungHimal (6986 m), etc.Â
Our journey continues as we descend to the sacred Muktinath Temple, following the steep, rocky, and winding single tracks. Muktinath is a destination of profound spiritual significance, particularly among Hindus. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams, temples mentioned by the poet-saint Alvars of the Sri Vaishnava tradition. The temple houses 108 taps, each believed to have a unique and miraculous healing property, where devotees perform a sacred ritual of bathing in the icy cold water as a part of their devotions. This spiritual practice is a testament to the deep faith and dedication of the pilgrims. Muktinath is also home to a thirty-five-foot-tall statue of Siddhartha Gautam, offering a panoramic view of the entire area.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Tea House
After completing the most challenging day, the rest of the trail will feel much more accessible. We pass through the beautiful trail of Lubra Pass, riding the rocky, flowy, and off-camper single-track up to Ekle Bhatti. From there, we follow the jeep track to Marpha via Jomsom. Enjoy the stunning views of Annapurna (8,091 meters), Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters), and Nilgiri Himal (7,061 meters) along the way. Marpha is a small Thakali village painted in white. The alleys are exciting to explore, and it is famous for its fresh apples, apple wine, and apple pie. Marpha is a beautiful start to the trek, and these unique cultural experiences will enrich your journey. We will stay overnight at Marpha.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Tea House
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Today, we will encounter the stunning Rupse waterfall on the way.With an astonishing depth of 18,278 feet (5,571 meters), the Kali Gandaki Gorge is recognized as the world's deepest gorge. It lies between the majestic peaks of Mt. Annapurna I and Mt. Dhaulagiri, both soaring over 8,000 meters high.The trail, hugging the Kali Gandaki River, leads us on a mostly downhill ride through the jeep track to Tatopani. It's important to note that the trail may feel a bit precarious as we maneuver through some landslide-prone areas. However, with caution and preparedness, we can safely reach Tatopani and look forward to the rejuvenating experience of the natural hot spring, washing away the fatigue of the trip.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Tea House
 It will not be a long journey to Beni and the trail is mostly downhill, providing a welcome relief(Although there are some uphill sections as well). As we ride to Beni, remember it's the last day of our challenging yet rewarding mountain biking trip to the Annapurna Circuit. From Beni, a private vehicle will pick us up and drive us to Pokhara, marking the end of our journey and a moment of pride in our accomplishment.
Breakfast-Lunch
Hotel
Start your day with a visit to the Lakeside in Pokhara, a place of unparalleled beauty. Here, you can bask in the serene beauty of Phewa Lake, set against the majestic backdrop of Mt. Fishtail (6,993 m). This breathtaking view will be the perfect way to bid adieu to the Himalayas in Pokhara. We will then drive to Pokhara International Airport (PIA) for our flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, take a moment to relax and let the coolness of the city rejuvenate you.
Breakfast
Hotel
A driver and a company representative will pick you up from the hotel and take you to the Tribhuvan International Airport(TIA).
Breakfast
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Pick A Month You Prefer To Ride Round Annapurna
What's Included In The Package
- All (international and domestic) airport transfers on a tourist /Private vehicle.
- Twin-sharing/double accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara including breakfast.
- Kathmandu-Besisahar transportation with bikes.
- Daily luggage drop-off service at the hotel/Tea House.
- Twin-sharing guesthouse accommodation during the biking days in the mountain region.
- All your standard meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner).
- Experienced, first-aid trained, government licensed, English-speaking MTB guide.
- Beni-Pokhara transfer after the completion of the ride.
- Pokhara-Kathmandu Domestic Flight.
- All the necessary permits.
- Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance for all staff.
- All administrative expenses and government taxes.
- Evacuation assistance in case of emergency.
What's Excluded In The Package
- Mountain bike/Biking Gears/Extra components.
- International air fare.
- Nepal Visa.
- Emergency Evacuation/s and medical treatments.
- Upgrade of accommodations.
- Travel Insurances.
- Emergency evacuation(s), Accidents, recovery & additional transport.
- Change in Itinerary due to cancelled helicopter flight or unavoidable delays on route i.e. landslides etc, extra or cancelled accommodation etc.
- Personal Expenses.
- Excess luggage above recommended levels.
- Some meals, all kind of bottled drinks, Internet services, hot showers etc.
- Tips for the guides, porters and drivers.
Fixed Departure Dates For 2025
Essential Information
Before booking
- Choose the right trip, considering your health, physical ability, and experiences.
- Read the terms and conditions properly.
- Make sure the payment is delivered to ensure the final confirmation.
After Booking
High-altitude activities in Nepal are not just physically demanding, they are a test of your fitness. It’s not a suggestion, it’s a necessity to ensure you’re physically ready for these adventures. By committing to physical training, you’ll not only be prepared, but you’ll also be confident and ready to take on the challenge.
Round Annapurna Mountain Biking:
 A good quality bike hire would cost for hardtail US$50-for full suspension $70 per day.
- For multiple days of biking tour at high altitudes of over 3000m, ensure you have trained yourself well. Box jump, circuit and resistance training, and  Endurance training, such as mountain biking on uphill trails for many hours (60 km – 70 km per ride), can be beneficial.
- Feed on the right nutritious food rich in protein, healthy fat, and carbohydrates.
- Keep yourself focused and determined, which helps to strengthen your willpower for the next challenge ahead.
International Flights arrangements:You are responsible for arranging the international flight ticket and travel insurance, which can cover emergency evacuation and medical treatment. Our package doesn’t include this service.
Route Map
