Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour

Q: How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour?

This tour is considered challenging because of:01: High altitude02: Steep mountain trails.03: Rocky and rough roads.04: Long cycling distances. Good physical fitness and previous mountain biking experience are recommended.

Q: What is the best time for the Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour?

The best seasons are:01: Spring (March to May).02: Warm temperatures.03: Rhododendron flowers blooming.04: Clear mountain views.05: Autumn (September to November).06: Stable weather.07: Excellent visibility.08: Best biking conditions.

Q: What permits are required for the tour?

01: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).02: TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System). Everest Alpine Trekking can arrange all required permits for the trip.

The Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour is one of the most exciting mountain biking adventures in Nepal. This tour takes you through beautiful Himalayan landscapes, traditional villages, deep valleys, rivers, forests, and high mountain passes. The journey combines adventure cycling with cultural experiences and breathtaking mountain scenery.

The Annapurna Circuit is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal and is famous around the world for its natural beauty and diverse culture. During the cycling tour, riders pass through Gurung, Thakali, Tibetan-influenced, and Manangi villages while enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.

Everest Alpine Trekking organizes this cycling adventure with professional guides, experienced support staff, and carefully planned itineraries to ensure safety and enjoyment.

Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

The Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour usually starts from Kathmandu and continues to Besisahar, the gateway of the Annapurna region. From there, the biking journey begins through remote mountain trails and scenic villages.

Cyclists ride through Chame, Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, and Thorong Phedi before crossing the challenging Thorong La Pass. After the pass, the trail descends to the holy temple area of Muktinath and continues through Jomsom, Marpha, Tatopani, and Pokhara.

This adventure is suitable for experienced riders who enjoy mountain biking in rugged Himalayan terrain. The route includes both uphill and downhill riding with spectacular scenery throughout the journey.

Trip Highlights

Professional support from Everest Alpine Trekking team.
Exciting mountain biking adventure in the Annapurna region.
Cross the famous Thorong La Pass (5,416m).
Ride through beautiful Himalayan villages and landscapes.
Stunning mountain views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Manaslu.
Enjoy adventurous downhill cycling trails.
Explore ancient monasteries and Tibetan culture.
Experience diverse cultures and local traditions.
Visit hot springs at Tatopani.
Ride through forests, waterfalls, rivers, and desert-like valleys.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m):

Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Our representative from Everest Alpine Trekking will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you will receive a tour briefing about the Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour.

Day 02 :

Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760m):

After breakfast, drive along scenic highways beside rivers, green hills, and villages to Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna region.

Driving Duration: 6–7 hours

Day 03 :

Cycle from Besisahar to Chame (2,670m):

Today begins the exciting mountain biking adventure. Ride through forests, waterfalls, suspension bridges, and rocky trails toward Chame.

Cycling Duration: 6–7 hours

Day 04 :

Cycle from Chame to Pisang (3,300m):

The trail climbs gradually through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages with amazing views of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal.
Cycling Duration: 5–6 hours.

Day 05 :

Cycle from Pisang to Manang (3,540m):

Ride through dry mountain valleys and ancient settlements toward Manang, one of the most beautiful villages in the Annapurna region.
Cycling Duration: 5–6 hours

Day 06 :

Acclimatization Day in Manang:

A rest and acclimatization day is important to adjust to the high altitude. Explore the village and nearby viewpoints.

Day 07 :

Cycle from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,110m):

The trail becomes more challenging as you gain altitude. Ride through alpine landscapes and yak grazing areas.
Cycling Duration: 4–5 hours

Day 08 :

Cycle from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m):

A shorter ride today helps your body prepare for crossing Thorong La Pass.
Cycling Duration: 3–4 hours.

Day 09 :

Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and Ride to Muktinath (3,800m):

This is the most exciting and challenging day of the tour. Cross the famous Thorong La Pass and descend to Muktinath.
Cycling/Walking Duration: 7–9 hours.

Day 10 :

Cycle from Muktinath to Tatopani (1,190m):

Enjoy a long downhill ride through Kagbeni, Jomsom, and beautiful Thakali villages.
Cycling Duration: 6–7 hours.

Day 11 :

Cycle from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,874m):

Today includes uphill cycling through rhododendron forests and mountain villages.
Cycling Duration: 5–6 hours.

Day 12 :

Sunrise at Poon Hill and Ride to Pokhara (822m):

Early morning hike to Poon Hill for sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Later descend and drive or cycle toward Pokhara.

Day 13 :

Drive or Tourist Bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu:

After breakfast, return to Kathmandu by tourist bus or private vehicle.
Driving Duration: 6–7 hours

Day 14 :

Final Departure:

Our staff from Everest Alpine Trekking will transfer you to the international airport for your final departure.

FAQS

Expand all

Where is the Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour located?

The Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The route passes through beautiful mountain villages, forests, rivers, and high Himalayan landscapes around the Annapurna mountain range.

How many days is the Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour?

The standard Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour usually takes around 12 to 16 days depending on the itinerary, acclimatization days, and travel arrangements.

What is the highest point of the tour?

The highest point of the tour is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet), one of the highest mountain passes in Nepal.

How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour?

This tour is considered challenging because of:
01: High altitude
02: Steep mountain trails.
03: Rocky and rough roads.
04: Long cycling distances.

Good physical fitness and previous mountain biking experience are recommended.

What is the best time for the Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour?

The best seasons are:
01: Spring (March to May).
02: Warm temperatures.
03: Rhododendron flowers blooming.
04: Clear mountain views.
05: Autumn (September to November).
06: Stable weather.
07: Excellent visibility.
08: Best biking conditions.

Do I need previous mountain biking experience?

Yes, previous mountain biking experience is highly recommended. Riders should feel comfortable cycling on rough mountain trails and high-altitude terrain.

Can beginners join this cycling tour?

Beginners with strong physical fitness and some cycling experience may join, but the tour is more suitable for intermediate and experienced riders.

What permits are required for the tour?

01: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
02: TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System).

Everest Alpine Trekking can arrange all required permits for the trip.

Is altitude sickness possible during the tour?

Yes, altitude sickness can occur because the tour reaches over 5,000 meters. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and gradual ascent help reduce risks.
Common symptoms include:
01: Headache.
02: Dizziness.
03: Nausea
04: Difficulty sleeping.

What type of accommodation is available?

Accommodation is mainly in local teahouses and mountain lodges. Facilities are simple but comfortable with basic rooms and local meals.
Hotels are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

What food is available during the tour?

Most teahouses serve:
01; Dal Bhat.
02: Fried rice.
03: Noodles.
04: Soup.
05: Pancakes.
06: Tibetan bread.
07: Tea and coffee.
Vegetarian meals are widely available.

Should I bring my own mountain bike?

You can either:
Bring your own mountain bike, or
Rent a bike in Kathmandu or Pokhara

A good-quality mountain bike with strong suspension and disc brakes is recommended.

Is bike rental available in Nepal?

Yes, mountain bikes are available for rent in Kathmandu and Pokhara through local adventure shops and tour companies.

What should I pack for the tour?

Important items include:
01: Helmet.
02: Warm clothing.
03: Waterproof jacket.
04: Gloves.
05: Sunglasses.
06: Cycling shoes.
07: Sleeping bag.
08: Water bottle.
09: Sunscreen.
10: Personal medicines.

Is travel insurance necessary?

Yes, travel insurance is strongly recommended. Insurance should cover:
01: High-altitude trekking and cycling.
02: Emergency evacuation.
03: Medical expenses.
04: Accidents.

Are guides and support staff included?

Yes, Everest Alpine Trekking provides experienced cycling guides and support staff for safety and assistance during the trip.

Is Wi-Fi and electricity available during the tour?

Wi-Fi and electricity are available in many villages, but services may be limited at higher elevations. Additional charges may apply for charging devices and internet use.

Can I charge my phone and camera during the trip?

Yes, most lodges offer charging facilities for phones and cameras, usually for an extra fee.

What mountains can be seen during the tour?

You can enjoy spectacular views of:
01: Annapurna Range.
02: Dhaulagiri region .
03: Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
04: Manaslu region.
05: Tilicho Peak.

Why choose Everest Alpine Trekking for the Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour?

Everest Alpine Trekking provides:

01: Professional local guides
02: Safe and organized trips
03: Flexible itineraries
04: Quality service
05: Local cultural experiences
06: Reliable support throughout the journey

The company focuses on creating memorable Himalayan adventures for all travelers.