Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour
14 days
Challenging
From £ 2,150
£ 1,995
Book Now

What's included?

Transportation

All ground transportation as per itinerary

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara and Lodge / Tea House during trek

Meals

All meals during the trek

Permits

Annapurna Conservation Area permit and TIMS card

Guide

Experienced trekking/cycling guide

What is it really like?

Photos from the Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour

Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) – the ultimate high-altitude challenge

Ride through dramatic landscapes – rivers, waterfalls & rice terraces

Cycle to Tal, Chame & Manang – traditional mountain villages

Rest & explore in Manang – stunning views and cultural immersion

Climb to Yak Kharka & Thorong High Camp – ride above 4,900m!

Visit Muktinath Temple – sacred to Hindus & Buddhists

Cycle through Marpha – famous for apple orchards and local brandy

Soak in natural hot springs at Tatopani

Key Information

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Alture Treks will warmly welcome you and escort you to your hotel in the vibrant city of Kathmandu. After check-in and a brief rest, you’ll attend a short pre-tour meeting where you will be introduced to your cycling guide and get a detailed briefing about the Annapurna Circuit journey. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepali welcome dinner and explore the bustling streets of Thamel, filled with colorful shops and eateries.

Today begins with an overland drive to Besisahar, the starting point of your cycling adventure. The drive offers scenic views of the countryside, terraced fields, and river valleys. After arriving in Besisahar, you'll prepare your bikes, do a final equipment check, and rest for the evening. This small town, surrounded by lush hills, is your first taste of the diverse landscape you'll experience throughout the circuit.

Your first cycling day takes you along the Marsyangdi River through rugged trails, suspension bridges, and traditional villages. The route is a mix of off-road terrain, uphill climbs, and rocky paths, offering an exciting challenge for mountain bikers. Tal, a beautiful village beside a river-fed waterfall, welcomes you with its Tibetan-influenced culture and peaceful ambiance.

Ride through a breathtaking landscape of pine forests and rocky ridges as you ascend to Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. The trail features narrow gorges and stunning views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. Chame is a bustling village with modern amenities, providing a good place to rest and refuel before heading deeper into the Himalayas.

Today’s ride leads you through a transition zone—from lush forest to arid alpine terrain. The views grow more dramatic, with Annapurna III and Gangapurna towering above. Pass by charming villages like Pisang and Braga, adorned with prayer flags and ancient monasteries. Arriving in Manang, you’ll notice the high-altitude environment as the air becomes thinner and drier.

To adapt to the increasing altitude, you’ll spend a rest day in Manang. Take short hikes to the Gangapurna Lake or the viewpoint above the village for panoramic mountain views. Visit local monasteries and learn about the Himalayan lifestyle. Alture Treks ensures a structured acclimatization plan to prepare your body for the days ahead and minimize the risk of altitude sickness.

With a slower pace today, you ride into the alpine zone with more barren and wind-swept terrain. This section is relatively short but challenging due to the altitude. En route, you may spot yaks grazing on the sparse vegetation. Yak Kharka is a small settlement where you'll rest in preparation for the steep climb to Thorong High Camp.

This is one of the most demanding days of the tour. The trail becomes narrower and steeper, requiring careful cycling and at times, pushing your bike. The high camp is a stark but beautiful place surrounded by towering peaks. Proper hydration and rest are crucial here to ensure you're ready for the next day’s crossing of Thorong La Pass.

An early morning start takes you to the top of Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the tour. The ride/push to the pass is a true high-altitude challenge, but the rewards are spectacular. From the top, enjoy sweeping views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The descent to Muktinath is thrilling and fast, with rocky switchbacks. Muktinath is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, offering a mix of cultural heritage and mountain serenity.

Descending into the Kali Gandaki Valley, you’ll pass through the windswept village of Kagbeni and continue to the charming apple capital of Nepal—Marpha. The landscape transforms into dry cliffs and desert-like hills, reminiscent of the Tibetan plateau. Marpha is known for its whitewashed houses, apple orchards, and monasteries—perfect for an evening stroll.

This section takes you through dramatic elevation loss, winding through lush forests and steep valleys. You’ll pass Thakali villages and witness deep gorges and roaring waterfalls. In Tatopani, reward yourself with a soak in the natural hot springs—a well-earned break to soothe tired muscles and reflect on the high Himalayan journey.

The final ride is an easier descent to Beni along a scenic route that follows the Kali Gandaki River. After reaching Beni, you’ll board a vehicle and drive to Pokhara, a lakeside city known for its relaxed vibe and stunning views of the Annapurna range. Check in to your hotel and enjoy the comforts of civilization again, perhaps with a lakeside dinner or a spa session.

After breakfast, you’ll board a comfortable tourist bus back to Kathmandu. The scenic drive retraces your earlier route, allowing time to reflect on the incredible adventure you’ve completed. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel for a farewell dinner with your cycling team.

Your Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour with Alture Treks concludes today. Depending on your flight time, a representative will transfer you to the airport. Depart Nepal with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a deep sense of accomplishment from one of the world’s most spectacular cycling adventures.

Getting to the Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour is straightforward. International travelers typically fly into Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu, Nepal. Upon arrival, a representative from Alture Treks will be there to greet and transfer you to your hotel. Kathmandu acts as the base for final preparations, gear checks, and briefings.

From Kathmandu, the group travels by local bus to Besisahar, the starting point of the cycling segment of the tour. This scenic 6 to 7-hour drive winds through Nepal’s hills and valleys and provides a gradual introduction to the landscape. All ground transportation during the tour, including the final return to Kathmandu via Pokhara, is arranged by Alture Treks, ensuring a seamless and organized travel experience throughout the journey.
Elevation Chart

Throughout the Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour, Alture Treks ensures comfortable and culturally immersive accommodations in local teahouses and guesthouses. These family-run lodges offer cozy rooms, usually on a twin-sharing basis, with basic but clean amenities. Higher altitude lodges are simpler, but they provide warm hospitality and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Meals are an essential part of the experience and are typically provided at the lodges. Riders can enjoy hearty Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), as well as some international fare like pasta, pancakes, and eggs. Hydration is key at altitude, so tea and purified drinking water are available at each stop. Alture Treks ensures that dietary preferences and hygiene standards are respected throughout the tour.

The Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour is rated as challenging and is recommended for riders with a good level of physical fitness and prior experience with mountain biking. The terrain includes unpaved roads, rocky trails, steep ascents, and technical descents, especially around high mountain passes. Days can be long, with riding hours ranging from 4 to 8 depending on the route segment and elevation gain.

The most physically demanding section is the ascent and descent around Thorong La Pass (5,416m), where altitude and weather can significantly affect performance. Though porters or support vehicles carry gear, riders must be prepared for altitude changes, potential cold weather, and rugged trail conditions. Alture Treks offers a pre-trip fitness assessment and advice for those unsure about their readiness.

Weather along the Annapurna Circuit can be unpredictable and varies significantly with elevation. In the lower regions, temperatures are moderate (10–25°C), especially from March to May and September to November, the best seasons for cycling. As you ascend above 3,000 meters, temperatures drop, especially at night, and wind exposure increases.

At Thorong La Pass, temperatures can plunge well below freezing even in peak season. Snowfall is possible at high altitudes, particularly in late autumn or early spring. The monsoon season (June–August) brings heavy rains and muddy trails, making it less ideal for cycling. Alture Treks provides detailed gear checklists and weather updates before and during the tour to help riders prepare.

  • Airport pick-up and drop
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
  • Full-board trekking & cycling accommodation (Lodges/Teahouses)
  • Professional cycling guide & support mechanic
  • Experienced trekking/cycling guide and porters
  • Ground transportation (private jeep/bus where needed)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area permit and TIMS card
  • All meals during cycling tour (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Spare parts and basic repair kit
  • First aid kit and emergency support
  • Duffel bag and Alture Treks T-shirt
  • All government taxes and service charges
  • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
  • Meals in Kathmandu & Pokhara (except breakfast)
  • Bar bills, soft drinks, and bottled water
  • Personal cycling gear (helmet, gloves, shoes, etc.)
  • Personal expenses (laundry, phone, internet)
  • Travel insurance (mandatory with emergency evacuation coverage)
  • Tips for guide, porters, and crew
  • Medical expenses or unforeseen hospital costs
  • Major bike damages or spare part replacements
  • Extra nights due to delays or personal reasons
To prepare for the Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour, Alture Treks recommends a dedicated fitness regime starting at least 8 weeks before the tour. Riders should focus on cardiovascular training, strength building, and endurance rides—ideally including some off-road biking or hill climbs to simulate Himalayan terrain. Cycling 3–4 times a week with increasing distance and elevation will condition your body for long days in the saddle.

In addition to physical conditioning, mental preparation is key. The high altitude and challenging terrain require resilience and adaptability. Incorporating hikes or stair climbs into your routine, especially with a loaded backpack, can mimic the effort of high-altitude riding. If possible, training at higher elevations or taking short multi-day cycling trips in mountainous regions will give a realistic preview of what to expect.
Proper gear is crucial for the success and enjoyment of your Annapurna Circuit ride. Below is a recommended equipment checklist. Alture Treks can assist with bike rentals, safety gear, and packing consultations.
Cycling Gear:
  • Mountain bike (hardtail or full suspension) – can be rented
  • Helmet (mandatory)
  • Cycling gloves (full-finger for protection)
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Padded cycling shorts
  • Breathable cycling jerseys
  • Windbreaker or light cycling jacket
  • Rain jacket or poncho
  • Sturdy cycling shoe
  • Clip-in pedals (optional)
  • Hydration backpack or water bottles
Clothing (Layering is key):
  • Base layers (moisture-wicking)
  • Fleece jacket or mid-layer
  • Down jacket (for cold evenings)
  • Thermal underwear
  • Warm hat and lightweight beanie
  • Buff or neck gaiter (dust and sun protection)
  • Lightweight hiking pants and shorts
  • Warm gloves and socks
  • Sleepwear
Camping/Personal Items:
  • Headlamp with spare batteries
  • Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C or lower) – provided on request
  • Sunscreen and lip balm (high SPF)
  • Personal toiletries and quick-dry towel
  • Water purification tablets or filter
  • Small daypack or handlebar bag
  • Personal medications and basic first aid
  • Power bank and charging cables
Documents:
  • Passport with Nepal visa
  • Passport-size photos (for permits)
  • Copies of travel insurance
  • Emergency contacts and health info

The Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour is an adventurous mountain biking journey offered by Alture Treks that follows the world-famous Annapurna trekking route—on two wheels. This multi-day tour takes you through one of Nepal’s most geographically and culturally diverse regions, circling the Annapurna Massif and crossing the thrilling Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), the highest point of the route. It’s a bold combination of technical biking, high-altitude adventure, and deep cultural immersion, passing through stunning landscapes, traditional villages, monasteries, and river valleys.

The Annapurna Circuit by bike is a physically demanding and technically challenging ride, best suited for experienced mountain bikers with good endurance and skill handling off-road terrain. The tour involves steep climbs, rocky descents, narrow trails, river crossings, and cycling at altitudes over 5,000 meters. In some sections—especially near Thorong La—biking is not possible and the bike must be pushed or carried. However, with the support of Alture Treks’ guides and crew, determined riders can conquer this iconic trail safely and confidently.

The cycling tour typically takes 12 to 18 days, depending on the specific route and acclimatization schedule. The adventure starts with a drive or ride from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Besisahar, and follows the classic trail through Chame, Manang, Yak Kharka, and Thorong Phedi before crossing the Thorong La Pass. The descent on the western side passes through Muktinath, Kagbeni, and Jomsom, with the option to continue down the Kali Gandaki Valley to Tatopani and even Pokhara. Alture Treks offers both standard and customized itineraries to match your goals, pace, and comfort level.

The most favorable months for cycling the Annapurna Circuit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons provide clear skies, dry trails, and excellent mountain views. Spring brings colorful blooms, while autumn offers post-monsoon freshness and stable weather. Winter is technically possible but more extreme due to snow on the pass. The monsoon season (June to August) is not recommended due to landslides, slippery trails, and poor visibility.

Yes, Alture Treks arranges all the necessary permits for the Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour. Riders will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System). These permits are essential for entering and cycling through the protected Annapurna region and support local infrastructure and conservation efforts.

A high-quality mountain bike, preferably full suspension, is required for this tour. Riders can bring their own or rent a bike through Alture Treks. Other essential gear includes a helmet, padded cycling shorts, gloves, biking shoes, water hydration system, repair kit, and layered clothing suitable for both hot valleys and cold mountain passes. Alture Treks provides a full packing list and offers mechanical support throughout the journey.

No, Alture Treks provides porter or vehicle support to carry your main luggage, so you only need to ride with a lightweight daypack for essentials such as water, snacks, a jacket, and camera. The support team meets you at pre-arranged points along the trail and provides mechanical and logistical assistance whenever needed.

Altitude sickness is a potential risk above 3,000 meters, especially near Thorong La Pass. Alture Treks builds in acclimatization days, typically around Manang, and carefully plans the ascent to give your body time to adapt. Our guides are trained in altitude awareness, and we closely monitor each rider for symptoms. In emergencies, we can arrange for descent or evacuation. Staying hydrated, riding at a steady pace, and following your guide’s advice are key to staying safe.

Accommodation is in teahouses and mountain lodges, offering basic but clean rooms with beds and blankets. Facilities vary by location, with shared bathrooms in higher villages. Meals include hearty and freshly cooked local dishes such as dal bhat, fried rice, pasta, soups, and snacks. Special dietary requirements can usually be accommodated. Alture Treks ensures nutritious meals and hygienic food throughout the tour.

Alture Treks brings expert knowledge, personalized service, and a strong safety focus to every adventure. Our cycling guides are skilled riders, mechanics, and first responders, and they know the region intimately. We offer full logistical support, high-quality equipment rentals, flexible itineraries, and sustainable travel practices. With Alture Treks, you don’t just ride the Annapurna Circuit—you experience it deeply, safely, and memorably.

The Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour is an exhilarating high-altitude mountain biking adventure that takes you deep into the heart of the Himalayas. Operated by Alture Treks, this 14-day journey offers a thrilling blend of rugged trails, diverse landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences. Starting from the bustling city of Kathmandu, the tour gradually ascends through subtropical forests, alpine meadows, and arid highlands to reach the dramatic heights of the Thorong La Pass (5,416m)—one of the highest cycling passes in the world.

Each day presents a new challenge and scenic reward, with stops at iconic Himalayan villages such as Manang, Chame, and Muktinath. Riders will experience the incredible shift in terrain and climate as they circle the Annapurna Massif, cycling through rhododendron forests, river valleys, and wind-swept plateaus. Combining physical adventure with spiritual insight, this trip is ideal for mountain biking enthusiasts looking to explore one of the world’s most celebrated trekking circuits from a unique two-wheeled perspective.

You can count on us

Expert Local Guides

We are seasoned professionals who know these trails like the back of our hands. We bring both deep knowledge and genuine warmth to your journey—keeping you informed, inspired, and in good hands.

Authentic & Flexible Itineraries

We craft our trips to offer more than just the highlights. Whether it’s a peaceful village walk or a high-altitude challenge, our itineraries blend iconic sights with lesser-known gems, and we’re always happy to tailor the pace to your comfort.

Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your adventure is locked in—no cancellations due to low group sizes. Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a group, you can plan with confidence knowing your trip is guaranteed to go.

Commitment to Safety

Your well-being is our top priority. We closely monitor weather and trail conditions, carry essential safety gear, and make informed decisions on the ground. You’ll trek with peace of mind, backed by a team that genuinely cares.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

We practice low-impact trekking and support local communities every step of the way. From eco-conscious planning to fair wages for our team, we believe in travel that respects people, place, and planet.

Unbeatable Value

We believe great adventures shouldn’t come with a hefty price tag. With fair pricing, no hidden fees, and excellent service included from start to finish, Alture Treks offers exceptional value—so you get the most out of your journey without compromise.

Explore our range adventures
From thrilling treks to serene retreats—crafted for every kind of explorer. Find your perfect journey today!

Ready to make a choice

Check out these other trips in Nepal.

Planning a Trek?

Talk to our experts first.

Plan My Trip