Start: Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu

Your Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking adventure begins at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. We recommend that you arrive before 16:00 on Day 1 to allow enough time to settle in, attend our detailed trip briefing, and enjoy a welcome dinner with your guide and fellow riders.

✅ Free airport pickup is included – our team will be waiting at the airport with your name sign and will transfer you directly to your hotel in Thamel.

End: Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)

The tour concludes in Kathmandu after you complete the incredible ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara via Thorong La Pass. You may book your departure flight for any time after the end of the trip, though we recommend staying one extra night for relaxation or souvenir shopping.

✅ Free airport drop-off is included – just share your flight details, and we’ll arrange your transfer accordingly.

Transfers & Support During the Trip

The cycling journey starts directly from your hotel in Kathmandu and follows a scenic route all the way to Pokhara, covering a mix of paved and unpaved roads through mountains, valleys, and remote Himalayan villages.

After completing your ride in Pokhara, you’ll return to Kathmandu by a Private 4x4 Jeep – included in your package.

If you prefer quicker transport, a 30-minute domestic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu is available as an optional upgrade (extra cost applies).

Baggage & Porter Support

To make your ride enjoyable and comfortable, your personal gear and high-altitude equipment will be carried by professional porters throughout the trip. You’ll only need to ride with a small daypack for essentials such as water, snacks, and a windproof layer.

Safety, Backup & Rescue

Your experienced mountain biking guide is always by your side and prioritizes your safety above all. If you ever feel unwell, encounter a mechanical issue, or are unable to continue riding, our backup and rescue team will reach you wherever you are—either by vehicle on accessible tracks or on foot in remote sections. We stay in constant communication through mobile and local networks to ensure fast, responsive assistance when needed.

Food Experience on the Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour

Fueling your body with the right food is essential on a multi-day mountain biking adventure like the Annapurna Circuit from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Here's what you can expect during different stages of the trip:

In Kathmandu – Global Cuisine Meets Nepali Tradition

Before hitting the trails, you’ll stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, located in the vibrant Thamel area. The city’s food scene blends international flavors with authentic Nepali cuisine.

• Breakfast is included at your hotel.
• For lunch and dinner, you're free to explore top-rated restaurants, street food stalls, and cafes.
• Don’t miss trying traditional Dal Bhat, juicy Momos, and warming Thukpa – perfect for a local culinary introduction.

Homestays – Local Living & Authentic Meals

In the early hill sections of the trip, you’ll experience true Nepali hospitality by staying in family-run homestays in rural villages.

• Meals are prepared using locally grown ingredients, often cooked over open fires.
• Expect freshly made Dal Bhat, seasonal vegetables, and millet or rice-based dishes.
• All meals – breakfast, lunch, and dinner – are included.
• Hot drinks, bottled water, and beverages are available at additional cost.

Annapurna Region – Teahouse Meals in the Mountains

While cycling through the high-altitude trails of the Annapurna region, your food will be served at traditional Himalayan teahouses.

• Meals are simple but nourishing: rice, lentils, noodle soups, pasta, and Tibetan-style bread.
• Most ingredients are carried up from lower villages, so menus are limited but satisfying.
• All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included during the mountain biking portion.
• Drinks, soft beverages, and energy snacks are at your own expense.

In Pokhara – Lakeside Dining After the Ride

At the end of your cycling adventure, unwind in a 3-star hotel in Pokhara, close to the beautiful Phewa Lake.

• Breakfast is included at the hotel.
• Lunch and dinner are not included, giving you the freedom to dine at lakeside restaurants offering everything from Nepali and Indian dishes to Italian, vegan, and Western comfort food.
• Be sure to try the local specialty – grilled freshwater fish from Phewa Lake.

Accommodation Throughout the Trip

From city stays to village homes and remote mountain lodges, your accommodation during this Nepal mountain biking tour is designed for comfort, cultural immersion, and practicality.

Kathmandu – 3-Star Hotel Stay

Your journey begins in a well-located 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, offering clean, cozy twin-sharing rooms with en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, and Wi-Fi.

• A great place to rest and prepare before hitting the trails.
• Room upgrades are available on request.

Village Homestays – Cultural Connection

As you cycle through lower hill villages, you’ll stay in authentic homestays, hosted by welcoming local families.

• Expect basic yet comfortable bedding, shared bathrooms, and home-cooked meals.
• These nights offer a deep connection with Nepali rural culture.
• Upgrades are not available in these regions.

Annapurna Region – Mountain Teahouses

During your high-altitude ride, accommodation is provided in simple teahouses along the route.

• Rooms typically include twin beds, warm blankets, and shared bathrooms.
• The charm lies in the cozy atmosphere, yak wool blankets, and mountain views outside your window.
• All teahouse stays are included in the package. No upgrades are available due to limited options at altitude.

Pokhara – 3-Star Hotel by the Lake

After completing the Annapurna Circuit by bike, you’ll relax in a 3-star hotel in Pokhara, offering twin-sharing rooms, hot showers, and beautiful lake or garden views.

• It's the perfect place to unwind, recharge, and celebrate your achievement.
• Room upgrades are available for an extra charge.

The Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking from Kathmandu is rated Challenging, designed for committed adventure seekers, strong cyclists, and endurance athletes ready to test their limits in the heart of the Himalayas.

What Makes This Ride Challenging?

This is not your average mountain biking trip. This cycling expedition involves:

• Long daily rides (up to 7–8 hours per day)
• Mixed terrain including paved roads, rocky jeep tracks, technical single tracks, and steep climbs
• Massive altitude gain, starting at 1,400 m in Kathmandu and rising to a breathtaking 5,416 m at Thorong La Pass, one of the highest rideable points on Earth

Cyclists must handle extreme changes in climate, rugged and remote trails, and the ever-present risk of altitude sickness, particularly in the high-altitude zone beyond Manang. Acclimatization is built into the itinerary, but mental resilience and physical fitness are essential.

Who Is This Trip For?

This ride is best suited for:

• Experienced mountain bikers with solid technical skills
• Athletes and cyclists with a high level of fitness and endurance
• Adventure travelers seeking a demanding yet rewarding Himalayan challenge
• Avid riders who may not have Himalayan experience but are ready to push themselves and trust our expert guidance

Safety Guaranteed with Places Nepal

While this cycling journey is physically demanding and takes you into remote, high-altitude regions, your safety is always our highest priority. At Places Nepal, we combine decades of mountain guiding experience with modern safety strategies to ensure every rider is supported from start to finish.

Here’s how we keep you safe during your Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking adventure:

• Your group will be led by certified, high-altitude mountain biking guides, trained in emergency response and first aid.
• We closely monitor your physical condition and altitude adaptation, offering acclimatization guidance and pacing tips.
• An expert maintenance and rescue team patrols the trail in a 4x4 support jeep, equipped with essential tools and emergency supplies. This mobile unit stays in radio contact with your group leader at all times and is ready to assist in case of breakdowns, injuries, or fatigue.
• Immediate evacuation assistance is coordinated if you face altitude sickness or are unable to continue, whether by jeep or helicopter, depending on terrain.
• Your biking gear and high-altitude equipment are carried by porters, so you can ride light and focus on the trail.

Even if you’re an avid cyclist without Himalayan experience, our well-coordinated support system ensures you can safely enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

With technical guidance, high-altitude care, and 4x4 backup patrols, you’re never alone on the trail.

The Reward?

For those who commit, train, and trust the process, cycling the Annapurna Circuit is one of the most powerful and transformative adventures Nepal has to offer—a test of endurance and a journey of a lifetime.

From Lowlands to the Roof of the World – A Journey Through Changing Terrain

The Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking tour takes you through some of the most diverse landscapes in Nepal. From the warm, green foothills outside Kathmandu to the snow-dusted mountain passes of the high Himalayas, riders must be prepared for dramatic shifts in climate, terrain, and trail conditions.

Early Ride (Kathmandu to Gorkha to Bhulbhule – 1,400 m to 900 m)

• Weather: Warm and temperate, especially in spring and autumn. Temperatures range between 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F).
• Trail Conditions: Paved and gravel roads with gentle climbs, passing through terraced fields, river valleys, and traditional villages.

Mid Ride (Bhulbhule to Manang – 900 m to 3,500 m)

• Weather: Cool mornings and evenings; pleasant daytime riding temperatures between 8°C to 20°C (46°F to 68°F).
• Trail Conditions: Mixed terrain – rocky trails, stone-paved paths, and dirt tracks. The ride becomes physically demanding with steep ascents, narrow paths, and off-road technical sections.

High Pass (Thorong La – 5,416 m)

• Weather: Cold and unpredictable. Temperatures can drop below -10°C (14°F) at night, and snowfall is possible even in autumn or spring.
• Trail Conditions: Rocky, exposed alpine terrain with thin air, loose stones, and possible icy patches. This is the most physically and mentally challenging part of the journey, often requiring riders to push or carry their bikes over the pass.

Descent to Pokhara (Muktinath to Pokhara – 3,700 m to 800 m)

• Weather: Gradually warms as you descend. Expect sunshine during the day and chilly mornings at higher altitudes.
• Trail Conditions: Mostly downhill on unpaved roads, mixed with single tracks and riverbed riding. The path passes through arid valleys, pine forests, and finally back to lush lowlands.

Can You Do This Ride in Winter?

Yes – with proper planning, winter cycling on the Annapurna Circuit is possible and deeply rewarding. From late November to early February, the trails are quieter, the skies clearer, and the snow-capped mountains even more breathtaking.

However, winter biking comes with its own set of challenges:

• Thorong La Pass can be snow-covered, increasing difficulty. There may be short unrideable sections due to ice or deep snow.
• Cold temperatures (as low as -15°C/5°F) require layered, insulated clothing and cold-weather gear.
• Shorter daylight hours demand earlier starts and disciplined pacing.
• Places Nepal ensures winter safety with warm teahouse accommodation, high-quality sleeping bags, porter support, and backup/rescue readiness via 4x4 jeep or foot support.

Our expert guides and winter-hardened crew are experienced in managing altitude and cold-weather risks, ensuring a safe and stunning winter adventure.

Best Time to Ride the Annapurna Circuit

The ideal seasons for this cycling tour are:

• Spring (March to May) – Blooming rhododendrons, moderate temperatures, and clear skies make this a favorite time.
• Autumn (Late September to November) – The most popular season for mountain biking in Nepal. Dry trails, stable weather, and exceptional mountain views.
• Winter (Late November to Early February) – A less crowded, more rugged version of the circuit. Best for confident, cold-hardened riders with proper gear.
• Monsoon (June to August) – Not recommended due to heavy rain, landslides, and poor trail conditions.

How to Get Fit for the Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking from Kathmandu

Cycling the Annapurna Circuit from Kathmandu to Pokhara via the breathtaking Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) is an intense and rewarding journey. To enjoy every moment — and stay safe — proper training is key.

Here’s how to prepare your body, mind, and legs for this epic Himalayan mountain biking experience:

1. Build Cycling Endurance

Ride consistently for 4–5 days a week, with at least one long ride (50–80 km). Mix in hilly and off-road sections to mirror the trail terrain.

2. Strength & Core Training

Strengthen legs and improve balance with exercises like squats, lunges, and planks. This helps with control on technical climbs and descents.

3. Simulate Altitude

Hike, cycle, or run at elevation if possible. Boost cardiovascular fitness with stair climbing and interval training to prepare for thin air above 4,000 m.

4. Mental Preparation

Stay disciplined with your training and challenge yourself with long rides in varied weather — endurance and resilience go hand in hand in the Himalayas.

5. Flexibility & Recovery

Incorporate yoga, stretching, and foam rolling to improve flexibility and prevent injuries.

Want to Talk to an Expert?

If you’re unsure how to begin your training or want personalized guidance for your fitness level, our expert Himalayan cycling guides are here to help.

Contact Us Now:

📧 Email: [email protected]

📞 Phone / WhatsApp: +977 9851239965

Let’s prepare together — and get you ready to conquer the Annapurna Circuit on two wheels!

Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking from Kathmandu – Trip Overview

Ride from the heart of Kathmandu to the base of Pokhara, conquering one of the world’s most iconic trekking routes—on two wheels. The Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking Adventure is a thrilling journey across Nepal’s diverse geography, cultures, and sacred landscapes. This isn’t just a ride — it’s a cross-cultural, high-altitude expedition with views that change as fast as the terrain under your tires.

Route & Altitude Description

Starting at 1,400m in Kathmandu, your journey begins in the bustling city streets and climbs gradually through Bidur, Tripureshwor, and the historic town of Gorkha — home to Nepal’s unifying king, Prithvi Narayan Shah, and the revered Gorkha Durbar Palace perched high above the hills. From here, you enter the Annapurna Conservation Area via Bhulbhule (900m), and your ascent intensifies.

Riding alongside the Marsyangdi River, you’ll pass through Danakyu (2,200m), Chame (2,710m), and into the majestic alpine village of Manang (3,500m). The terrain shifts from lush greenery to high desert landscapes as you pedal toward Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, and eventually cross the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416m) — the ultimate test of altitude and endurance.

The descent leads to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath (3,710m), before cruising down the Kali Gandaki Gorge through Marpha (famous for apple orchards), Tatopani’s natural hot springs, and up to Ghorepani, with its breathtaking panoramas of Annapurna South and Dhaulagiri. The adventure concludes in Pokhara (822m)—Nepal’s serene lake city.

Key Destinations & Cultural Highlights

• Gorkha: Historical kingdom and origin of Nepal’s unification. Visit the ancient palace, Gorkha Durbar, and enjoy views of Manaslu and Himalchuli.
• Manang: A Tibetan-influenced mountain village with ancient monasteries, yak herders, and colorful prayer flags. A day here is dedicated to acclimatization and exploration.
• Thorong La Pass: At 5,416m, it's the highest point of the circuit—riding (or pushing) your bike over this pass is a true badge of honor.
• Muktinath: A revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, known for its eternal flame and sacred water spouts.
• Marpha: Famous for its whitewashed alleys, Thakali culture, and legendary apple brandy.
• Tatopani: A natural spa stop, where hot springs ease sore muscles after days of mountain riding.
• Ghorepani: Home of the famed Poon Hill sunrise, where you’ll witness the snow-capped peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri glowing gold.

People, Cultures & Mountain Life

This ride takes you through the homes of Gurung, Tamang, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced communities. Each ethnic group along the trail has a distinct language, style of dress, cuisine, and spiritual traditions.

• In Dhading and Gorkha, you'll meet Tamang and Magar communities with deep animistic and Buddhist traditions.
• Manang and Mustang reflect strong Tibetan Buddhist influence — with mani walls, chortens, and age-old monasteries dotting the landscape.
• Marpha and Jomsom are Thakali villages known for hospitality, salt trade history, and apple orchards.

Expect warm smiles, shared tea, and heartfelt connections as you pedal through their world.

Permits & Permissions

To legally and responsibly ride through the Annapurna region, the following permits are required and arranged by Places Nepal:

• ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
• TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System Card)
• Special permission to cycle through high-altitude zones like Thorong La

We handle all logistics, so you can focus on the journey.

Why Choose This Mountain Biking Adventure?

Ride the legendary Annapurna Circuit — from the city chaos of Kathmandu to the alpine serenity of the Himalayas

• Explore rarely visited routes through villages, forests, deserts, and glacier-fed rivers
• Climb and descend epic Himalayan passes, including the iconic Thorong La
• Engage with diverse cultures across ethnic groups and centuries-old settlements
• Stay safe and supported with expert guides, porters for your gear, and a 4x4 rescue & maintenance team on standby
• Celebrate your ride with a certificate, cap, and official Places Nepal T-shirt