The full picture.
The Annapurna MTB Circuit is one of the most ambitious mountain bike trips on the planet — 221km from Kathmandu test trails through the Marsyangdi valley, up to Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, and all the way back down to Pokhara via the Kaligandaki gorge.
Sections include challenging singletrack near Tatopani hot springs, steep climbs to Muktinath temple (3,802m), and thrilling descents through traditional villages. Some sections require riders to walk their bikes — this is not a road ride. Full-suspension is non-negotiable.
This is a 3-week commitment for strong, experienced riders who want to do something genuinely extraordinary. The combination of altitude, technical terrain, and cultural immersion makes it Nepal's definitive MTB experience.
What you'll experience.
The trail in pictures.
The climb, day by day.
Full itinerary.
Arrive in Kathmandu, meet the team, and spend the afternoon on a test ride through Shivapuri forest — perfect for tuning suspension and getting a feel for the bikes before the main event.
Drive to Besisahar and begin riding along the Marsyangdi river valley. First km on the circuit — exciting, warm, and green. The mountains ahead are just hints of what's to come.
Three days through the lower and middle Marsyangdi valley — increasing altitude, narrowing gorges, and the first views of Annapurna II and Manaslu dominating the skyline.
Enter the Manang valley — the landscape shifts dramatically to an arid Tibetan plateau with yaks, ancient gompas, and the full Annapurna range filling the horizon.
Crucial rest and acclimatisation day. Ride up to Ice Lake (4,600m) — the highest point before the pass — to check bike and body response at altitude.
Short riding day to base camp for the pass. Eat well, sleep early, start at 3 AM tomorrow.
The defining day. Some sections must be walked — no shame in that at 5,400m. The views from the pass reward every step. Long descent to Muktinath for a well-earned rest.
Four days of predominantly downhill riding through Jomsom, Marpha, Tukuche, and the Kaligandaki gorge to Tatopani. Each day is different, each day is exceptional.
Final two riding days through increasingly subtropical terrain, river valleys, and traditional Gurung villages back to Pokhara for the celebration dinner.
Rest, recover, and explore Pokhara. Route certificate ceremony in the evening.
Transfer to Kathmandu or international departure. 18 days, 221km, 5,416m — Nepal's greatest MTB achievement.
The trail map.
What's included.
✓ Included
- ✓All teahouse/guesthouse accommodation
- ✓Breakfast and dinner daily
- ✓Expert MTB guide (circuit-certified)
- ✓Support vehicle for luggage and emergencies
- ✓Full-suspension bike (Scott Genius or similar)
- ✓Helmet + protective gear
- ✓ACAP + TIMS permits
- ✓First aid + evacuation plan
✕ Not Included
- ✕International flights
- ✕Nepal visa
- ✕Rescue insurance (mandatory)
- ✕Lunches
- ✕Tips
- ✕Personal riding gear
- ✕Alcohol
What to pack.
🚵 MTB Gear
- Full-face helmet
- Full armor set
- MTB shoes
- Padded shorts + jersey
- Hydration pack
- Gloves ×2
🧥 Layers
- Heavy down jacket (for pass)
- Windproof shell
- Thermal base ×3
- Warm gloves + balaclava
🎒 Essentials
- Riding backpack 15L
- SPF 60 sunscreen
- Energy gels/bars
- Tool kit + spare tubes
- Cash
- Passport copies
