Annapurna Full Circuit Mountain Biking Tour
This package is a pure action pack filled adventure of full Annapurna Circuit Mountain Bike (MTB) Trekking, paragliding in Pokhara, rafting Seti River Gorge and to conclude the adventure, the total relaxation with safari in Chitwan National Park. On offer here is a very physical level adventure, which will raise you metabolism to levels you can rarely experience and the best possible gift one can offer to their body and mind.
Snowy Horizon Treks and Expedition offer and operate full Annapurna Circuit MTB-Trekking Adventure. We termed it MTB-Trekking (MTBT), the real adventure for not a fainthearted. The Annapurna Circuit is renowned for its stunning scenery and one of the top ten long-distance treks in the world. Our adventure extends this with speed, dynamism, freedom and excitement of the MTB ride. When you pedal amongst the Himalayas it takes the term 'Mountain Biking' to a whole new different level.
We start biking from Beshisahar after eight hours of scenic drive from Kathmandu and finish back in Pokhara encircling the Annapurna massive. We selected the best of the Circuit and follow it through Marshyangdi river valley to Manang, take a sidetrip to Lake Tilicho, cross snow covered Thorung La pass (5430m) and return to Pokhara via Kali Gandaki river gorge considered the world’s deepest river gorge between two 8000m giants Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. We will start and finish in the lowland, biking through dense oak forests, deep gorges, and lovely isolated hamlets. Oak and pine forests eventually give way to the high mountain desert country at Manang (3579m). Half way we rich mighty high mountains and picturesque Lake Tilicho nestled at the foot of majestic Tilicho peak, which will undoubtedly be the highlight of the adventure.
The trek follows ancient trading routes between Tibet and Nepal; it has thousands of years of cultural traditions reflecting in today’s local population as mix of Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism traditions with friendly and welcoming spiritual people.
From Throng La pass we continue down to Pokhara via Muktinath, Jomsom Tatopeni and Beni. We end our real adventure and The Amazing MTB-Trek with excitement of paragliding, river rafting and cool relaxation at Chitwan National Park exploring the jungle during elephant ride.
In Pokhara we take 45 minutes paragliding flight from Sarangkot Hill, 700m above Pokhara, with stunning views on the Phewa Lake and towering Annapurna above. This will be your final and maybe the most amazing glimpse of the giant, before we head off for the rest of adventure.
We will leave Pokhara early in the morning for 2 days of white water rafting on incredibly beautiful Seti River through very steep canyons between Pokhara and Chitwan National Park.
Finally, we finish our rafting in Chitwan NP. Two day jungle safari activities will include elephant bathing and riding and the opportunity to close encounters with these magnificent and highly intelligent creatures. You will be able to come close to the elephant and interact with them including touching and patting. You will be amazed with their dexterity, gentleness and intelligence. While riding elephants through the jungle we will hope to see rhinos, maybe tigers, dears, giant pythons and more. Rangers also arrange other activities such as nature walks, canoeing and bird watching.
Introduction to Kathmandu
Kathmandu(1400m) history dates back an impressive 2000 years. It is located centrally in Kathmandu Valley with its metropolitan area consistings of three cities: Kathmandu (Kantipur), Patan and Bhatapur. Thamel the old part of the city with quaint short and narrow streets, numerous nooks and crannies contains hotels, restaurants, offices and shops. Durbar Square, world heritage site, is important and fascinating place to visit, containing numerous Hindu temples, statutes of various Hindu deities and the palace of Kumari, the living goddess. Other important place is Pashupatinath, the biggest Hindu temple in the world, considered the most significant for Hindu followers attracting numerous pilgrims and colourful Sadus; for many Hindu it is a preferred cremation site on banks of Bagmati River. There are two significant Buddhist Gompas in Kathmandu Swayambhunath and Baudhanath, and also world heritage sites. Nagarkot, the highest hill in the range surrounding Kathmandu Valley, some 35km from the city centre offers unprecedented view on Langtang range and some of the giants beyond the range such as Annapurna, Manaslu, Cho Oyu and Shishapangma.
Seti River
The Seti originates from the snow fields and glaciers around the twin peaks of Api and Nampa in the south facing slopes of the main Himalayas near the Tri-junction of the borders of Nepal, India, and Tibet. The river first flows in a south-easterly direction, then turns and flows in a south-westerly and finally south-easterly again before joining the Karnali or Ghagra River. The Seti catchment area marks the water-divide between Kali River system in the west and Gandak or Narayani River system in the east. It has cut a spectacular gorge across the Mahabharat Lekh allowing short but spectacular rafting course. The warm waters of this river are heated naturally by underground springs and geothermal activities. Seti is an ideal trip for those wanting to experience some of stunning river scenery in Nepal without the intensity of complex or challenging rapids. It is also very well suited for family trips and is suitable to learn kayaking in Nepal.
Introduction to Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park the first national park in Nepal formerly called Royal Chitwan National Park it was established in 1973 and granted the status of a World Heritage Site in 1984. It covers an area of 932 sq km and is located in the subtropical Inner Terai lowlands of south-central Nepal in the Chitwan district. In altitude it ranges from about 100 metres (330 ft) in the river valleys to 815 metres (2,674 ft) in the Churia Hills. The park contains rich fauna and flora including exotic and endangered Bengal Tigers, Crocodile spices, Indian Rhino and Elephants. The stay and activities inside park are organised and controlled by the rangers to ensure safety of visitors and environmental protection and include elephant bathing rituals and safaris, bird watching, jungle walks and canoeing. The park also offers informative slideshow, introduction to local culture with the Tharu traditional dance shows. The rivers feeding to Chitwan allow a number of options for spectacular rafting adventures on Seti and Treshuli Rivers.
Introduction to Pokhara
History of Pokhara is linked with an important old trading route between China and India. In 17th centaury Pokhara was a part of very influential Kingdom of Kaski ruled by Shah Dynasty. Pokhara Valley is a home to ethnic groups of Brahmin, Gurung and Newar who are predominantly Hindu with a minority of Buddhists in particularly of Tibetan origin. It is one of the most spectacular valleys in Nepal, where two 8000m peaks Annapurna(8091m) and Dhaulagiri(8167m) raise up dramatically within 30km from Pokhara(1000m) forming incredibly picturesque vista over the Phewa Tal (lake). At Sarangkot (1680m) you will experience the golden sunrise view of Annapurna and magnificent vista of Lake Phewa and city of Pokhara. There will be optional activity of paragliding back to Pokhara on 45 minutes para-flight tandem. We also visit the amazing Bidubashini temple complex, Old Market, David’s Fall with Hindu Grotto Temple and the cave and Tibetan Buddhist monastery.
Testimonials
Annapurna Circuit Trek -Autumn 2009
When we were in Nepal in 2008 for island peak climbing Mr. Rishi was with us as our Expedition Manager. We are really proud with him that this times to found him as a Managing Director of Snowy Horizon Treks and Expedition.
We would like to thank Mr Rishi for this incredible experience, we highly recommend his company and guide who would link to Use any Mountaineering activities in Nepal...Read More
Map
Annapurna Trekking Map
Itinerary Details of Annapurna Full Circuit Mountain Biking Tour
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu Airport and transfer to Hotel
Day 02: This will be our preparation day including briefing, fitting and checking bikes and opportunity to purchase last minute or forgotten items. Kathmandu has it all what you need for any adventure in the multitude of outdoor outlets and at the prices being a fraction, what you would have to pay in your country.
Day 03: We take a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besi Sahar (823m). Taking about seven hours, we will stop several times during the trip to try some local cuisine; we will stay overnight in a lodge in Khundi.
Day 04: Our first MTB-Trekking (MTBT) day from Khudi to Bhaunadanda (1310m/19km/40% rideable/4-5hrs) will be moderate but technical section, through the forested area and terraced hills along the Nadi Khola River with first glimpses on Manaslu II (Ngdi Chuli). We will MTBT the village trail, crossing a number of suspension bridges, passing next to 108m high waterfalls near Nandeswanra and interact with local culture. This will be the day to get used to the environment, views, bikes and riding on unpaved path. Just before Bhaunadanda (Brahmin Hill) we will ride up to the top of cliffs with spectacular views. Bhaunadanda has a number of lodges, shops, communication facilities and local temples. Lodge accommodation.
Day 05: Bhaunadanda to Tal (1700m/13km/45% ridable/6hrs), will be another technical section with dropping and gaining elevation. The valley will be narrow in places with steep drops besides the path in places and the river thundering below. We will descent steeply 500m to Ghermu, cross suspension bridge on Marsyangdi Khola River in Syange (1100m) and start ascending to Tal. In Jagat we face a section of a steep hill and technical ride on the stone trail. In Tal we will enter Manang Region. The higher we get, more the country look and feel will resemble Tibet areas with predominant Tibetan Buddhist influences. We will be seeing people of two main ethnicities Gurung and Tamang. Lodge accommodation.
Day 06: Tal to Chame (2670m/22km/70% rideable/7hrs). We will follow Marsyangdi River valley all the way, descending first to cross the river and gaining 500m elevation between Bagarchhap and Chame. Leaving Tal there will be Mani wall in the middle of the path, a Buddhist shrine; it is customary and respectful to walk clockwise around any Buddhist shrine. The valley narrows here again and trail deteriorates until Dharpani, village typical for Manang with stone gateways at its outskirts. After that path gets much better for riding. Chame will welcome us with white gate covered with corrugated iron roof and hot springs to enjoy at the end of the day. Lodge accommodation.
Day 07: Chame to Pisang (3300m/17km/80% rideable/6hrs). After 6 days of gradual elevation gain we are ready to cross 3000m threshold. The trail to Pisang continues along the river through Keleku to Bhratang (2850m) which is surrounded by apple orchards and has a number of lodges. We cross the river on a long bridge at 2910 m and then another bridge at 3040m.
Today we enter really high country with stunning vistas of snow capped peaks, lakes and glaciers. We are also entering region with Tibetan influence. We will see old forts, Mani walls, Gompas, Chortens and Tibetan style villages such as Braga, with time to take some stunning photography. We will also see Pisang peak, a cool looking and very popular 6000m climbing peak. Lodge accommodation.
Day 08: Pisang to Manang (3540m/17km/95% rideable/5hrs). For next 7 days we will ride through really high country, well above tree line, with amazing rock formations due to erosion, harsh weathering conditions and lack of stabilizing vegetation. From upper Pisang the route follows roughly the contours of the land until you reach a wall of prayer wheels and mani stones. The route takes us through Ghyaru (3670m) and Ngwal (3657m) finally reaching Manang. The ride is now through the drier upper parts of the Manang district, interestingly located in the rain shadow of the massive Annapurna Range. The views of the Annapurnas, Gangapurna and the glacial lake below it are spectacular. From Left to right are Lamjung, Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, the false peak of Annapurna III and Gangapurna above the glacier. Lodge accommodation.
Day 09: Manang to Khangsar (3,750m/18km/50% rideable/4-5hrs). We are taking a side-trip from Manang to Lake Tilicho. We will experience some of the most stunning scenery of Grand Barrier, a mountain range behind Tilicho peak giving it unusually dramatic backdrop. Lodge accommodation.
Day 10: Khangsar to Tilicho Lake Base Camp (4,200m/12km/55% rideable/4hrs). We have almost reached the highlight of the adventure, the base camp of Lake Tilicho. The views from here are superb on number of peaks above 7000m. Lodge accommodation.
Day 11: Early morning we MTBT to Lake Tilicho and back to Khangsar (3,750m/18km/40% rideable/5hrs). Weather permitting we have opportunity to explore nearby environs of the Lake and survey one of the most attractive climbing peaks in Annapurna region. Lodge accommodation.
Day 12: Khangsar to Manang (3540m/18km/50% rideable/5hrs). We will return to Manang on a technical MTB route with the views opposite to the biking day before. Lodge accommodation.
Day 13: Manang to Thoroung Phedi(4450m/19km/70% rideable/5hrs). We are back on the Annapurna Circuit where the riding quality improves. The trail leaves the Marsyangdi Valley and climbs steadily through Tengi and Jarsang Khola valleys. This section is a hard climb until Khusang (3900 m). Beyond Khusang we pass through Yak Kharka meaning yak pastures and true to its name, there are yaks being seen grazing around this area and across the river on the mountain slopes. We pass through Ledar (4200m) and reach Thorung Phedi, literally meaning 'The foot of the Thorung La’ (5416m). Lodge accommodation here is very basic due to its elevation and remoteness.
Day 14: Thoroung Phedi to Muktinath(3800m) via Thorung La (5416m) (23km/70% rideable/6hrs). Today we will cross the pass and head down to Jomson. It will be our last day in high country. We will be well acclimated, however the elevation is very high and there could be snow, making tough crossing, and a real adventure.
We will start our day very early to avoid the wind on the pass later in the morning as much as possible. It takes about 4hrs to reach the top of the pass. Once on the top we will have 45 minutes of a very steep descent, after which the path flattens. It is possible to reach Jomsom the same day however Muktinath is a very interesting location to stop for overnight visit; a popular pilgrimage site with 108 water spouts, for both Hindu and Buddhist. It still has a charm of ancient place where pilgrims mingling with the traders and travellers. Lodge accommodation.
Day 15: Muktinath to Kalopeni (2530m /47km/95% rideable/7hrs). We will ride through narrow path down hill and small valley, descending towards the stream and climbing across the far slope to reach Jomsom a major town with an airfield and daily flights by plane or helicopter to Pokhara and Kathmandu. At Jomsom (2710m) we will reach Kali Gandaki river, which we follow all the way to Pokhara. We will pass Maphra village, renown for apple farming and Khobang village offering spectacular mountain views. We will reach Kolopeni a northern end of a long village with Lete(2480m) at its southern end. Lodge accommodation.
Day 16: Kalopani to Tatopani (1190m/24km/75% rideable/3hrs). After Lete village there is a steep ride through forest, which will take us to the Lete Khola River. We ride through suspension bridge crossing the river at 1935m and then ride through a very steep and narrow section of a gorge. The route will gradually take us down to Tato Pani, a busy population centre. Tato Pani means 'hot water' and derived from hot springs located by the river. We will stay in Tatopani overnight.
Day 17: Tatopeni to Beni Baazar (820m/24km/90% rideable/5hrs). We start early today. Just after Tato Pani, we cross the bridge to the eastern side of the Kali Gandaki River and shortly afterwards the bridge over the Ghara Khola River, passing the trail up to Ghorepani. We bike south along the Kali Gandaki as trial rises and falls through small villages. Under an hour the ride takes us from quiet and attractive riverside village, Tiplyang(1040m) to the bustling market town, Beni. Buses run along the east bank road to Baglung and on to Pokhara. We will finish our ride here and take a bus to Pokhara. Hotel accommodation in Pokhara
Day 18: Morning flight to Kathmandu. Day for shopping, leisure and relaxation in Kathmandu; Nepalese cultural program with farewell dinner in the evening.
Day 19: After breakfast we’ll arrange transfer to the airport for your flight or alternatively you can join another tour.
Option A. Rafting after MTB ride from day 18
Day 18: Around 5am we will drive to Sarangkot (1680m) for golden sunrise and as optional activity you can return down to Pokhara on 45 minutes tandem para-flight. We’ll continue sightseeing in Pokhara for the rest of the day visiting Hindu temples at David’s Falls grotto and Bindubashini and Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Along we will also visit some spectacular nature. We will stay overnight in Pokhara.
Day 19: We take a drive to the start of our rafting adventure at Damauli, some 2 and half hrs from Pokhara. We will raft to our camp site on the beach in the jungle setting near Sarangghat.
Day 20: We continue our rafting to Gaighat until early afternoon from where we will return to Kathmandu on the bus along scenic Trishuli River gorge. We will stay in Thamel.
Day 21: Full Day sightseeing of Kathmandu Valley and Nepalese cultural program with farewell dinner in the evening.
Day 22: After breakfast we’ll arrange transfer to the airport for your flight or alternatively you can join another tour.
Option B. Rafting and safari options from day 18
Day 18: Around 5am we will drive to Sarangkot (1680m) for golden sunrise and as optional activity you can return down to Pokhara on 45 minutes tandem para-flight. We’ll continue sightseeing in Pokhara for the rest of the day visiting Hindu temples at David’s Falls grotto and Bindubashini and Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Along we will also visit some spectacular nature. We will stay overnight in Pokhara.
Day 19: We take a drive to the start of our rafting adventure at Damauli, some 2 and half hrs from Pokhara. We will raft for to our camp site on the beach in the jungle setting near Sarangghat.
Day 20: We continue our rafting to Gaighat until early afternoon and take a drive to Chitwan for the jungle safari program. The safari program includes many activities conducted over two days. Park rangers will schedule all activities. We finish the day enjoying sunset over the river and a drink in the bar located at the river banks and stay overnight in the jungle resort.
Day 21: Second day the jungle safari activities will include elephant bathing, elephant riding and the opportunity to close encounters with these magnificent and highly intelligent creatures. You will be able to come close to the elephant and interact with them including touching and patting. You will be amazed with their dexterity, gentleness and intelligence. You will be able to bathe in the river with the elephant. While riding elephants through the jungle we will hope to see rhinos, maybe tigers, dears, giant pythons and more. Rangers also arrange other activities such as nature walks, canoeing and bird watching. We will spend second night in the jungle resort.
Day 22: Morning flight to Kathmandu. Day for shopping, leisure and relaxation in Kathmandu; Nepalese cultural program with farewell dinner in the evening.
Day 23: After breakfast we’ll arrange transfer to the airport for your flight or alternatively you can join another tour.
Price for the Trip:
- the above itinerary is a guideline and standard suggested pattern chosen by majority of our customers. Your final itinerary will be customised according to your available time and requirements.
- the final itinerary duration and schedule may be reduced or extend depending on you time, budget, your fitness, class of service or any other preferences. The quote will be provided for you initial requirements and can be adjusted with mutual agreement should you require modifying these requirements.
- The price for your selected package will vary depending on group size, trip category (full board/base camp service), your budget, individualised itinerary, accommodation (budget to 5 star), level of service above the base camp, the number of guides and porters, kitchen crew, mode of transport you prefer and many other factors. The price range for the same trip can vary widely so if you would like to discuss your requirements with us we will provide you a very competitive price
- Please e-mail us for up-to-date prices for Annapurna Full Circuit Mountain Biking Tour
- For further information please read: How to book Trip in Nepal?
Cost Include
- pick up and drop from Kathmandu airport to airport .
- 3 meals a day (Breakfasts, Lunch and Dinners with tea or coffee) during the trek.
- Full board Accommodation of Lodges, Guesthouses in Twin Sharing Bases during the trek
- Trekking Permit (National Park entry fee)
- TIMS card(Trekking Information Management System) Permit
- Necessary staff during the trekking period With Experience Guide and Porter.
- 20 Kg Luggage free Per Person during the trekking.
- Trekking porter carry all personal gear and group equipment
- Surface transportation will be available as per itinerary.
- Experience Cycling Guide
- Mechanic facilities for normal injured
- Mountain Bike and repair kit
- Helmet and globs
- Good quality and conditional Mountain bike (trek).
- An Experienced Government license holder Trekking guide trained in wilderness first aid.
- Facility of Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and medicine for all trekking staff.
- Group medical supplies (First Aid medical kit will be available)
- One nights Hotel in Pokhara on bed and breakfast
- English speaking Tour guide for Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing tour by private car / van.
- Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing
- All necessary paper works, office Service charge and Government Taxes
- complete pre-departure information, flight ticket reconfirmation and extend visa service(if necessary)
- Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu before departure.
- Snowy Horizon Special Gifts (T-shirt, Pashmina )
Cost Exclude
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Emergency rescue evacuation if required.
- Personal accident insurance or Helicopter rescue.
- Airfare domestic / international flights
- Nepal entry visa fee, Visa issuance is easy at the arrival
- Any kind of Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks, hot water
- Alcoholic beverages, Mineral water, laundry, phone calls, internets.
- All kind of Personal Expencess
- Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section
- Tips, gifts, souvenirs.
