The call of the Himalayas is a siren song for adventurers,and there's no better way to answer it than on the back of a motorcycle.Pinkstone Travel's "ROAD 2 MANANG & MUSTANG" is a 14-day,13-night expedition designed for those who seek the ultimate ride throughNepal's most breathtaking and culturally rich landscapes. This journey is agrand traverse, connecting the lush valleys of the Annapurna region with thehigh-altitude deserts of the ancient Kingdom of Lo. It's an odyssey that willtake you from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the serene beauty of Manang,and finally to the mystical, walled city of Lo-Manthang.
Our adventure begins in Kathmandu, a city that is aliving mosaic of history and spirituality. After a warm welcome and anorientation with your trusty Royal Enfield, we’ll leave the city's chaos behindand head west. The first two days are a masterclass in varied terrain. The rideto Jagat takes us from smooth highways to rugged, single-lane tracks,where the landscapes transform from subtropical greenery to deep gorges andtowering valleys. This leg of the journey is an exhilarating challenge, a truetest of a rider’s mettle.
The ascent to Manang is where the magic truly begins.As we climb higher, the air thins, and the scenery becomes a stunning tapestryof contrasting colors—the deep greens of the valley floor giving way to thebarren, wind-scoured ridges of the Annapurna massif. Manang, nestled in thebroad valley of the Marshyangdi River, is not just a destination; it's a vitalacclimatization point for trekkers and riders alike. We’ll spend a day here,exploring the area and riding up to Kangsar, marveling at the colossalpeaks that dominate the skyline.
The route then takes a dramatic turn. We'll ride back to thelowlands for a brief respite at Begnas Lake, a tranquil freshwater lakenear Pokhara, before heading north once more. This time, our destination is thefabled Kingdom of Mustang. The ride to Kalopani takes us throughthe Kali Gandaki gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, flanked by themajestic peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. The road is a mix of dusty, unpavedsections and winding tarmac, a continuous test of skill and endurance.
The final leg to Lo-Manthang is the crowning glory ofthis expedition. It’s a journey into a world that time seems to have forgotten.The ride from Kalopani to the ancient capital is a testament to the ruggedbeauty of the Mustang region. You'll pass through Jomsom and Kagbeni,key checkpoints and cultural hubs, before entering the restricted area of UpperMustang. The landscape is a high-altitude desert, a canvas of browns, grays,and ochres, punctuated by ancient stupas and remote villages.
Lo-Manthang itself is a sight to behold. This walledcity, with its distinctive mud-brick walls and the four-story King's Palace, isa living relic of a bygone era. We’ll spend a full day here, exploring itsancient temples, like the Champa Lhakhang, which houses a magnificent45-foot statue of Maitreya Buddha. We'll also ride to the nearby ChhoserCaves, a network of ancient dwellings carved into the sheer cliffs,offering a glimpse into the lives of the Loba people from centuries ago.
The return journey is a scenic descent, retracing our stepsto Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.We'll then ride back to Pokhara for a much-needed day of rest andrelaxation by the lake, where you can reflect on the epic journey. Theexpedition concludes with a ride to Nuwakot, a town steeped in history,and a final scenic ride back to Kathmandu, where the memories of thisincredible adventure will linger long after you dismount your bike.
Highlights of the Ride
Founded in 1380 AD, Lo-Manthang is steeped in Tibetanculture, heritage, and spirituality. The mud-brick walls, ancient gompas,and royal palace echo tales of forgotten kingdoms and enduring traditions.It remains one of the few places where Tibetan Buddhism thrives untouched, withcenturies-old rituals, festivals, and architecture still alive today.
Manang – Gateway to the Annapurna
At 3,519 meters, Manang is a stunning valley townwhere travelers acclimatize before tackling Thorong La Pass. Here, you’ll find monasteries,yak herders, traditional stone houses, and terraced farms. It’s also a hubof Himalayan medicine and traditions, making it both a cultural and naturalwonder.
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