Cycling Around Annapurna Circuit

Upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International  Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Naata Travels will be there at the airport holding a placard bearing your name. He/she will escort you to your hotel.

We will kick off your adventure in Kathmandu with a morning briefing at our office, right after breakfast. You’ll connect with your biking guide, get answers to your questions, and receive a duffel bag and cap. Come prepared with your passport, two passport-sized photos, and a copy of your travel insurance. During the session, clear any outstanding balance and sign the trip form and disclaimer. If you’re running late and might miss the meeting, please let us know beforehand.

Next, embark on a picturesque six-hour drive to Besisahar, where your biking journey begins. Upon arrival, gear up and meet our support crew, including porters who’ll handle your luggage, setting you up for the ride ahead.

We have our hearty breakfast and set for our first day of biking. We pedal along the vibrant trail, tracing the Marshyangdi River’s path on the right side of the valley. Climbing steadily, you gain 1,000 meters in elevation, tackling trails that are 95% ridable. This exhilarating day sets the stage for even more thrilling rides ahead.

Departing Tal, you encounter a mani wall—a dry stone structure embedded with Buddhist prayer slates—standing in the path’s center. Always pass it on your left, moving clockwise. You ride through lush fields of green corn, barley, and potatoes until the valley narrows again. From Tal to Danaque, you face a tough stretch, pushing or carrying your bike up a steep, challenging climb out of Danaque. Beyond this, the trail opens up, becoming more rideable, with stunning snow-capped peaks coming into closer view and a wide, flowing trail guiding you to the finish.

You climb through fragrant pine forests as the trail unfurls into a lush, fertile agricultural valley. Pedaling along the dirt path, you weave through vibrant villages and settlements, meeting friendly locals and playful, snotty-nosed children. Starting from Pisang at 3,230 meters, you ride through a wide valley that stretches open before you.

You pause your ride for the day to explore the Himalayan town of Manang, acclimatizing to the high altitude. Rapid ascents can pose serious risks, so you take it easy. Embark on a short, half-hour trek to the stunning Gangapurna Lake, one of many excursions from Manang. You also hike for about an hour to a nearby hilltop, where you marvel at the towering Mt. Gangapurna and the shimmering lake below. Spend the rest of your time adjusting to the altitude and soaking in the breathtaking surroundings.

Depart Manang and begin your ascent toward Yak Kharka at 4,050 meters. Tackle a short ride today, as pedaling grows challenging with the rising elevation. Navigate trails that are about 60% ridable, taking your time to savor the stunning scenery and rich culture of the region.

You push through a demanding climb, feeling the altitude’s effects intensify with each step, yet the breathtaking landscape views leave you in awe. Tackle trails that are about 50% ridable, staying focused and conserving energy. Prepare yourself physically and mentally for the challenging high-altitude ascent awaiting you tomorrow.

Rise early for a 4 AM start to conquer Thorong La Pass, beating the strong winds that can make crossing tough later. Trek for about 4 hours, covering roughly 3 km, carrying your bike along trails that are approximately 70% ridable. Push through the challenging ascent, then pause at the summit to soak in the triumph of reaching the Annapurna Circuit’s highest point. Gear up for an exhilarating downhill ride, tackling 45 minutes of technical terrain until you arrive in Muktinath at 3,760 meters, where you can rest your weary body.

Depart the sacred pilgrimage town of Muktinath and ride toward Dhangladanda along a lesser-traveled trail. From this scenic viewpoint, carve through thrilling single tracks, descending swiftly to the riverbed in Lupra Valley. Pedal onward to Jomsom, where you pause to rest and enjoy a hearty lunch. Continue from Jomsom to the charming old village of Marpha, where you savor a sip of local Apple Brandy.

The trail begins with an easy ride, but after reaching Rukse Chaahara, it drops about 1000 meters in elevation. This section offers the most challenging and enjoyable part of today’s ride, with 95% of the trail being rideable. The thrilling downhill ride leads to Tatopani, a village famous for its hot springs. Once there, take a refreshing dip in the natural hot baths.

Return to Kathmandu by tourist bus. Check into your hotel and get ready to enjoy your final night in Nepal.

Extend your trip if you wish—join a Chitwan jungle safari, go rafting or bungee jumping, take a Kathmandu Valley shopping tour, enjoy a scenic Everest flight, or choose from other exciting activities.

The trip concludes here. Our airport representative will drop you at the international airport in Kathmandu for your flight departure from Nepal.