Imagine yourself in a 500 cc Enfield motorcycle riding along the dusty gravel road in the barren treeless landscape of the Tibetan Plateau, small settlements of people resembling the ancient Tibetan culture and lifestyles, all in the backyard of Annapurna and Dhawalagiri massif. It may not sound cozy but it is a sheer adventure that may be tattooed in your memory for eternity.
The ride kickoffs from the beautiful city of Pokhara, and goes through the winding roads following the Annapurna circuit route. Once you reach Beni (82 km from Pokhara), the off-road starts. We will follow the Kaligandaki River along the ancient salt trading route between Nepal and Tibet all the way to Muktinath Temple. Driving along the Kaligandaki George, the world’s deepest is one of a kind of experience in itself. The pristine lifestyle of the indigenous Buddhist community, historic monasteries and ancient caves make you feel you are in Tibet.
The return is made through the same route. Taking a day off in Pokhara to roam around the Lakes and caves, or trying an adventure such as Paragliding/Zip flyer/Bungee is good option. Pubs in lakeside Pokhara are fine places to hangout your evening and cling your beers with some fresh live music.
(The trip demands a good driving experience. You will enjoy a 500 cc Royal enfield as your ride. Luggage will be carried by a supported jeep with one technician for emergency services.)
Fees, Permits and Facilities:-
Foreign travelers have been allowed to the region since 1992 but tourism in this area is regulated. Foreigners need to obtain a special permit to enter in this area. Mustang is one of the most restricted trekking areas of Nepal but now it is popular destination for trekkers. Upper Mustang is well marked by official "Mustang" boarder signs just north of Kagbeni where a police and ACAP checks permits for non-Nepalese seeking to enter the region, and at Gyu La (pass) east of Kagbeni.
Trekking permits for Mustang costs US $ 500 per person for 10 days. Note that it is defined as 10 days not nights, starting and ending at Kagbeni. Extra days are charged extra US $ 50 per day. In order to obtain the permit you need to have at least two members in a group. That means single permit won’t be allowed from the immigration. If you are single traveler, let us know, we can provide permits by joining you with other travelers group. We need your original passport copy to obtain the restricted area permits.
