The perfect Annapurna MTB trip: ride at 5400m

The adventure begins in Kathmandu, where we welcome you and transfer you to the hotel. Once you've recovered from the journey, the bikes are assembled and set up, followed by an optional warm-up ride, sightseeing or yoga. Riding in the Kathmandu Valley gives you an instant introduction to Nepal's diversity: flowing trails through rice terraces, ancient villages and historic cities, combining mountain biking with a rich cultural heritage.

A short flight to Pokhara opens the door to the Annapurna region. After getting the bikes ready, a warm-up ride tunes up both body and kit for the high mountains ahead. From here, a scenic drive takes us to Beni, the real starting point of the Annapurna MTB traverse. The climb begins towards Kalopani (2500 m), set beneath the towering Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, where the scale of the Himalayas becomes truly tangible.

Following the spectacular Kali Gandaki valley, the route climbs through pine forests to Thini (2800 m), a traditional village that makes the perfect acclimatisation base. Riding around Thini delivers some of the best trails of the trip: alpine climbs to hidden lakes at 3800 m, optional extensions up to 4200 m and unforgettable descents that mix fast, flowing sections with technical challenges. These trails explain why mountain biking in the Annapurna is considered world-class.

The trip continues towards Muktinath (3750 m), crossing remote Tibetan villages and ancient trade routes. From here, riders reach 4000 m summits and drop into wild Himalayan freeride descents towards the Lupra valley, with optional shuttles to manage fatigue and adjustment to the altitude.

The high point of this Nepal MTB trip is the legendary Thorong La pass (5,416 m). This demanding day includes riding sections and hike-a-bike sections, and culminates in one of the longest continuous descents in the Himalayas, all the way down to Manang (3500 m). The terrain shifts from technical high-mountain riding to smooth, flowing trails, delivering a once-in-a-lifetime mountain bike experience.

After a rest and recovery day in Manang, the route continues over rugged alpine terrain towards Thar, followed by a lush, scenic descent to Besisahar. The adventure ends with the drive back to Kathmandu, where time is set aside for sightseeing, relaxing, yoga or one last optional ride before the airport transfer.

This Annapurna MTB trip in Nepal is more than a bike trip: it's a complete Himalayan expedition. Expect long days, high altitude and rewarding descents, perfect for intermediate to advanced riders with good fitness. From ancient valleys to 5000 m passes, this is mountain biking in its purest form.

On the last day, a free day in Kathmandu lets you relax and reflect on the trip. Options include shopping for local crafts, joining yoga or wellness sessions, sightseeing or even a bit more riding if you wish.