Before You Ride
Frequently Asked Questions
Licences, altitude, permits, seasons and luggage - the questions riders ask us most, answered plainly.
Yes. Bring a valid motorcycle licence from your own country, and an International Driving Permit endorsed for motorcycles if your licence is not in English. If you would rather not ride, every route can be done in the support 4x4 instead.
Enough to be comfortable on loose gravel and river crossings on a light adventure bike. Lower Mustang and Manang are around 30-60% off-road and forgiving; Upper Mustang is 40% off-road at altitude, and the camping route is for experienced riders only. Tell us honestly what you have ridden and we will put you on the right trip.
Adventure motorbikes suited to the terrain, prepared before every departure, with spare parts carried in the support vehicle. The Manang route runs on the Hero Xpulse. You can see the current fleet on the Fleet page, and tell us your preference when you enquire.
Most riders are fine, but the routes do reach 3,600-3,735 m. The itineraries build height gradually, the Manang trip includes a dedicated acclimatisation day, and oxygen is carried on every departure. If you feel unwell, the plan changes - we go down, not on.
We arrange them. ACAP and TIMS are included on every route, and Upper Mustang also needs a Restricted Area Permit, which is included on that trip. We need a passport scan and passport photos in advance, so book Upper Mustang with plenty of time.
March to May and September to November are the main seasons: clear skies and stable roads. Upper Mustang and Manang sit in the rain shadow, so they can also be ridden through the monsoon when the rest of Nepal is wet. December and January are rideable but cold at altitude.
Yes, and many riders do. Every departure is private to your group, so a solo rider gets the guide, the mechanic and the 4x4 to themselves. Ask us about a single-rider price.
The support 4x4 carries your main bag every day, so you ride with only what you want on the bike. Pack layers: mornings at altitude are close to freezing and afternoons in the valleys are warm.
Gear is not included in the price. Bring your own helmet, jacket, gloves and boots if you can - a familiar helmet is worth the luggage space. Tell us what you are missing and we will help you hire or buy it in Kathmandu.
A mechanic rides with every convoy and the 4x4 carries spare parts. Repairs happen on the road; if a bike cannot be fixed, you continue in the support vehicle. Wear and tear is on us - damage from a crash is not.
Yes, and it is not included. Take out travel insurance that covers motorcycling at altitude and helicopter evacuation, and check the small print for the engine size you will be riding. We will not start a trip without it.
A deposit secures your place and the balance is due before the trip starts. Bank transfer is always available, and card payment where our gateway allows it. Cancellation terms are on the Cancellation Policy page.
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