Upper Mustang Mountain Biking Tour
Trip Facts
Trip Highlights
- Adventurous tour on Mountain bikes to the Himalayas.
- Explore the ancient silk routes of Nepal and Tibet.
- Journey to the mysterious walled city of Lo Manthang.
- Adrenaline rushing tour on the off-the-beat trail to the Upper Mustang.
- Cultural exploration in the hidden valleys.
Trip Overview
The Upper Mustang Mountain Biking Tour offers an extraordinary experience, taking you to incredible spots high up in the mountains. These areas are filled with captivating mystery and untouched natural beauty that will leave you in awe. It is a breathtaking tour to the Upper Mustang on your bikes quite literally as it is situated at a high elevation close to the Tibetan borders. In addition to going on an adventure, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions of the ancient villages in upper Mustang. During this tour, you will ride along picturesque, less-traveled roads that will take you to enchanting destinations and charming villages, steeped in timeless beauty. The journey to these celestial destinations is certainly challenging, but it is undeniably rewarding. As you paddle up the steep hills and experience the exhilarating speed of the downhill ride, you will realize that it is all worth it.
Mountain biking, commonly known as MTB, is an off-road bicycle racing sport that takes place on rough terrains such as mountains, deserts, or rocky areas. It involves using specially designed mountain bikes. Professional riders compete at different locations. The Upper Mustang Mountain tour is not a race, but rather a peaceful mountain biking experience that allows you to explore the unique landscape of Nepal. It offers a thrilling biking adventure through the mountain deserts of Nepal. Most mountain bikers can relate to the intense experience of craving speed. The adrenaline rush experienced during each pedal stroke is a compelling factor that keeps individuals coming back for more. Each stroke not only provides power but also a sense of freedom which makes Mountain biking adventure like no other.
A journey to the highlands of Nepal presents an opportunity to discover the awe-inspiring mountains, including the splendid mountain deserts, and numerous other captivating destinations. Mountain biking tours have become more common among adventurous travelers because of the exciting and thrilling experience they offer. Mountain biking got increasingly popular during the 1970s in Northern California, USA. To navigate through challenging hillside terrain, riders would utilize older, yet high-speed bicycles. Upper Mustang is a region located in the north-central part of Nepal. Mountain biking is a stimulating sport that offers a unique opportunity to venture off the conventional routes and discover extraordinary and awe-inspiring locations in the highlands of Nepal. Nepal boasts a distinctive geography, encompassing three diverse landscapes: mountains, plain grasslands, and hilly regions. As you embark on your tour, you will have the opportunity to explore the magnificent mountain regions, which are abundant in both adventure and natural beauty. The rugged trail that leads to the Forbidden Kingdom is what makes the tour memorable and full of adventure.
During your cycling adventure, you will have the exciting opportunity to visit Upper Mustang and Lo Manthang along with the incredible village that you will come across. These enchanting destinations are situated in the highlands and are enclosed by awe-inspiring mountain ranges. The tour will start in Kathmandu and then proceed to Pokhara. The cycling portion of the tour will commence in Jomsom and continue all the way to Lo Manthang. In addition to the rewarding tour, you will also have the opportunity to explore other popular travel destinations in Nepal, including Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Attractions of Upper Mustang Mountain Biking Tour
During your 13-day mountain biking tour in Nepal, you will encounter some of the most beautiful and captivating places you will ever experience. Nepal is abundant with natural wonders and ancient man-made marvels. During this tour, you will have the opportunity to explore nature and ancient places on your bike, allowing you to observe them up close. Below is a list of places that you will have the opportunity to see and explore, along with brief descriptions to provide you with an insight into these locations.
Kathmandu - The Cultural Hotpot
Kathmandu serves as the primary starting and ending point for most trips, tours, and treks in Nepal. This is due to the presence of the country's only international airport, making it the initial destination for international travelers visiting Nepal. Kathmandu, also known as Kasthamandap and Kantipur, is a city in Nepal that is known for its cultural diversity and ancient landmarks. These landmarks serve as a reminder of the city's glorious past. Kathmandu Valley is renowned for its bustling city life, as well as its peaceful historical monuments that are rich in cultural heritage and ancient arts. These historical sites take the form of old architecture, temples, and monuments to religion. The city is adorned with a combination of modern development and ancient history, all within a distance of 1 km.
This provides a perfect illustration of the harmonious balance between the contemporary world and the rustic past. Kathmandu is one of those few places where high-rise buildings demonstrate growing technological advancement, while beautiful old landmarks boast the rich backbone of modern Nepal. To witness the vibrant colors of the city and experience its lively atmosphere, a visit to the Thamel area is highly recommended. Likewise, exploring prominent tourist hubs like Kathmandu Durbar Square will allow you to appreciate the country's rich cultural identity, as it is beautifully showcased through its timeless landmarks.
Pokhara - the City of Lakes
Pokhara is one of the most incredible places in Nepal and also the gateway to the mountains. Pokhara is widely recognized as a popular tourist destination, attracting both local residents and international travelers. It is renowned for its ability to provide a relaxing experience for visitors of all backgrounds. Pokhara's geography is truly unique. Situated at an elevation of 822 meters, it offers breathtaking views of towering mountains that reach over 8,000 meters. This impressive sight is seriously awe-inspiring. Pokhara is a popular destination known for its numerous natural attractions, including a cluster of beautiful lakes that have earned it the nickname "City of Lakes."
Pokhara offers a wide range of attractions, including breathtaking scenic views and thrilling adventure activities like Ultralight flight, Paragliding, Bungee jumping, and much more. Pokhara serves as the most accessible gateway to the Himalayas, offering a range of celestial traditional villages like Ghandruk, as well as access to more remote locations such as Upper Mustang. During your mountain biking tour, you will first visit Pokhara and then proceed to the Mustang region. Pokhara is the perfect place for warm-ups and relaxation after tiring tours and treks. Most tourists choose to stay in Pokhara before moving on to other places.
Jomsom - The Gateways to the Mountain Desert
Jomsom, also known as "Dzong Sampa," which translates to "New Fort'' in the native language, serves as the gateway to the Upper Mustang and Manang regions, commonly referred to as the mountain deserts. Jomsom is a place that attracts people for both religious and adventurous purposes. Jomsom is located about 155 km northwest of Pokhara. Jomsom is the established starting point for the charming trekking routes in Upper Mustang and Manang. The place offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the locals, with its diverse landscape and culture showcasing their simple yet fulfilling lifestyles.
Jomsom is a gorgeous small town located at an elevation of 2,800m beside the Kali Gandaki River. It is nestled in the foothills of Mt. Dhaulagiri and Mt. Nilgiri, making it a truly scenic destination. Jomsom is known for its challenging treks and religious tours to Muktinath, one of the most revered Hindu temples. People from all over the world visit this temple. Not only does this place serve as an amazing starting point for trekking, but it also offers an incredible insight into ancient beliefs and spiritual landscapes. You can gain insight into how the landscapes and tour will be by observing the cold, deserted area in Jomsom, which bears a slight resemblance to what you will see in Upper Mustang.
Marpha - The Apple capital of Nepal
Marpha is a remarkable and picturesque village that you will encounter during the Upper Mustang Biking Tour. It is one of the most popular places that you will encounter during your Upper Mustang. The word "Marpha" is formed by combining the words "Mar" which represents hard work and "Pha" which means people. Marpha is very famous for the production of organic apples. The apples produced in this region are distributed and sold across the country, with a focus on major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. Marpha, a village in Nepal, is known as the apple capital of the country because of its delicious apples. When you visit this place, make sure to try the locally produced brandy called Marpha, which is a popular alcoholic beverage.
Additionally, don't miss out on the opportunity to taste the fresh apples. It is widely cherished and renowned across the entire country. In addition to its delicious apples, Marpha is also known for its traditional villages and ancient architecture, which showcase the rich history and culture of the region. The narrow streets of Marpha village create a maze-like atmosphere that transports you to a timeless village. As you walk through these streets, you will have the opportunity to observe locals going about their daily chores and experience the beauty of simplicity. Dhaulagiri Base Camp is easily accessible from Marpha, making it a popular destination for travelers exploring the upper Mustang region.
Upper Mustang - The Forbidden Kingdom
Upper Mustang also known as the Forbidden Kingdom is the ancient trade or silk route between Nepal and Tibet. Upper Mustang is situated high in the mountains, far away from modern civilization, and is completely isolated. Travelers from around the globe are drawn to the untamed beauty and tranquility of Upper Mustang, making it a must-visit destination on their travel bucket list. Upper Mustang is located in the northern part of Pokhara, close to the Tibetan border. The upper Mustang is located in the middle of cold mountain deserts enclosed by dry mountains that block the monsoon rain.
Upper Mustang is a region abundant in ancient mythology and ancestral arts. Visitors have the opportunity to explore a multitude of ancient Buddhist monasteries, man-made caves, and palaces. The reason the upper Mustang is referred to as the Forbidden Kingdom is because it was once a kingdom itself, known as the Kingdom of Mustang. Mustang also lies under a restricted area of Nepal because of the orderly security environment, rich history, and unique culture of this area. The Mustang region presents a unique landscape, featuring breathtaking ancient villages nestled amidst snow-capped mountains and dry hills adorned with small patches of greenery. In addition to its natural beauty, Mustang is also known for its renowned Thakali food, famous local fruits like apples and apricots, local wines, Tibetan bread called Kkhapse, and dried fruit beer imported from China. These culinary options add to the adventurous and lively atmosphere of this place.
Lo Manthang - the ancient walled city of the Himalayas
The ancient walled city or the kingdom of the Lo is one of the most beautiful and mysterious places in the Himalayas of Nepal. In the local language, the word "Lo'' means "heart," "man" is translated as "wish," and "Thang" refers to "land." When combined, these words from the native term "Lo Manthang." Lo Manthang is located approximately 50 km away from Jomsom, the district headquarters of Mustang. It is situated in a remote area, far from urban centers. As you enter this mysterious place, you will immediately notice its unique geographical structure. Unlike other places, the majority of the land here is dry, cold, and isolated. Amid the mountain desert, you will come across patches of vibrant greenery, primarily consisting of agricultural lands and local orchards. These orchards are abundant with organic, fresh apples and various other fruits.
The ancient kingdom of Lo Manthang is proud of its traditional village and rich culture, which is deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism due to its proximity to Tibet. The village of Lo Manthang is renowned for its tall whitewashed mud brick walls, which were constructed approximately 600 years ago. It is also home to sacred Gompas, monasteries, and Royal palaces situated in the shadow of the Himalayas. The main attractions of this place are the unique landscapes, plus the thousands of mysterious man-made caves. A trip to Lo Manthang is truly awe-inspiring, as it showcases its untouched natural beauty. Exploring this ancient treasure on a bike offers a unique experience that cannot be replicated by any other tour.
Best time to visit for Upper Mustang Mountain Biking
Upper Mustang is located to the north of Pokhara, in the high-altitude trans-Himalayan region. The Upper Mustang area is enclosed by tall mountains that block the monsoon rain, resulting in a dry and deserted environment making it a great monsoon travel destination and open year for travel. The ideal time to visit Upper Mustang for a mountain biking tour is from March to early November. During this period, the weather remains pleasant with minimal rainfall and clear skies, providing unobstructed views of the valley.
The Upper Mustang Mountain biking tour involves riding on off-the-beaten trails with mountain bikes. This adds a fascinating element to the trail, making it more adventurous. Additionally, during these months, the trail is free from snow, making your ride comfortable and enjoyable. During these months, you will get to see some greenery as the fields are full of seasonal vegetation. Enhancing the beauty of the valley and making it more picturesque. During this time, you can fully take advantage of the weather as the days are warm and sunny, with mornings and evenings being a bit chilly.
How difficult is the Upper Mustang Mountain Biking Tour?
Mountain biking is a highly challenging and adventurous activity that one can partake in here amidst the mountain deserts of Nepal. The Mountain biking tour is of moderate to strenuous difficulty, as participants will need to travel through steep and challenging terrain at an elevation above 2,500m above sea level. The Upper Mustang Mountain Biking tour is a physically and mentally demanding adventure. Participants will need to cycle through rough and rugged trails, spending approximately 4-8 hours a day in the mountain deserts. This tour will take you to remote places in Nepal that have limited services, which adds an extra challenge to the already thrilling adventures.
When traveling to remote areas of Nepal, it's important to note that the trails may not be well-maintained and can be rough and off the beaten path. These trails will lead you to breathtaking destinations. If you choose to explore these places on mountain bikes, it is essential to have the necessary skills to ride a mountain bike safely and avoid injuries. It is highly recommended to have some previous cycling experience on similar rough and off-the-beaten-path terrain before engaging in this trip. In order to ensure an enjoyable and memorable mountain biking tour, it is important to have some prior experience in mountain biking, even though you will be accompanied by a professional tour guide.
Detailed Itinerary
Kathmandu Arrival, Welcome Dinner.
Fly to Pokhara, Warming Up.
Fly to Jomsom.
Cycling from Jomsom to Chhusang.
Chhusang to Ghami.
Ghami to Upper Mustang/Lo Manthang.
Lo Manthang Exploration.
Lo Manthang to Chhusang.
Chhusang to Marpha.
Marpha to Beni.
Drive from Beni to Pokhara.
Fly to Kathmandu, leisure day.
Departure, Farewell.
Trip Guide
The information about the Upper Mustang Mountain Biking Tour is in-depth; feel free to contact us 24/7. We will be available on WhatsApp to assist you instantly. You can write an email if this trip doesn't fit your vacation schedule and requirements. Altitude Himalaya aims to offer the best possible travel experience to customers. Depending on the needs of the visitors and the group size, we customize each vacation package. We will put together a bespoke itinerary just for your private group.
Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance is important before traveling to a new place especially when you are traveling for adventure. Travel insurance covers risks such as loss of personal belongings, and any unexpected expenses. Travel insurance also covers sudden medical emergencies such as accidents. It also covers high-altitude emergency evacuation in case of trekking. Travel insurance is not compulsory but highly recommended.
Medical Emergency:
If you face any serious medical emergency during your Mountain Biking tour/trip you will immediately evacuate the place through Helicopter Rescue which the traveler’s insurance company will cover. While trekking to the highlands of Nepal you may face minor health issues such as scratches, headaches, etc. For such a situation, your guide carries a well-equipped first aid kit, ensuring nothing happens to you.
High-Altitude Sickness:
During the Upper Mustang Mountain Biking Tour, you will walk through gorgeous valleys, traditional villages, and thrilling highlands above 3,000m elevation. Altitude sickness is unpredictable; it can happen to anyone despite being physically and mentally fit. As you gain altitude, the chances of getting altitude sickness also slightly increase. To avoid getting altitude sickness you should drink 5-6 lt water per/day and food with high carbohydrates. Walking slowly and acclimatizing decreases the chances of getting altitude sickness. Focus on your breathing and maintain your walking pace.
Packing List Suggestions:
Having a good backpack and necessary gear makes trekking easier. It becomes more important if you are trekking at higher elevations. If you are wondering about what to pack for trekking to the Annapurna region, then you can check our complete guide on the Nepal Trekking Gear Checklist. While making a backpack, it is important to include clothing, essential items, and a first aid kit. In difficult times, a good backpack can be life-saving.
Do’s and Don’t:
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Select the ideal time to travel.
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Select a reputed trekking/ travel organization.
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Training and getting ready for any kind of situation are necessary.
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Efficient packing is the key. (Nepal trekking gear checklist)
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Carry all the necessary paperwork (ACAP, Restricted area permit, and TIM card).
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Maintaining body hydration is important while traveling to high elevations.
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Having the proper personal gear makes your journey more enjoyable.
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Ask for permission before taking pictures and videos of the locals.
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Respect the culture and people of the area.
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Travel for experience and not for the sake of traveling.
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Don’t litter, put trash in its place.
Why with Altitude Himalaya:
Altitude Himalaya is one of Nepal’s growing travel companies providing excellent service to its clients. We believe in providing quality experiences and memories. We are concerned about maintaining and following our own standard service that includes a private transfer, at least a 3-star hotel accommodation in urban areas, the best available lodges/tea houses at the trekking trails, and dedicated personalized assistance. Additionally, we also operate our trips in Bhutan and Tibet.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Where does this Mountain Biking tour start?
The tour starts in Kathmandu, Nepal, but the Upper Mustang Mountain Biking Tour actually begins from Jomsom. You will begin your journey by taking a flight until Jomsom. From there, you will have the convenience of driving to your destination. Once you reach Jomsom, you will switch to mountain bikes and continue your journey to Upper Mustang.
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Can a beginner cyclist join the Upper Mustang Mountain Biking Tour?
The Tour in Nepal is known for its challenging mountain biking routes, featuring mostly rough and rugged roads. To participate in the Upper Mustang Mountain Biking Tour, it is essential to have prior experience riding mountain bikes on rough and off-road trails. This is because the majority of the roads on this tour are rugged and present challenging conditions.
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How many hours do you have to cycle daily during the tour?
The tour is renowned for its challenging terrain, as it traverses the rugged high mountain desert. The participants in this activity will be riding mountain bikes on a challenging trail that is rough and rugged. They will be covering distances that vary from 12 to 25 kilometers per day. To successfully complete the Upper Mustang Mountain Biking Tour, it is necessary to engage in cycling activities for a duration of 4 to 8 hours per day.
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What kind of accommodations will I get throughout the tour to the Himalayas?
During your stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will be accommodated in highly comfortable hotels situated in convenient locations near the markets. During your tour of the upper mountain, there are limited options available as the upper region is quite remote. However, you will have the opportunity to spend your nights at comfortable local lodges and eat at houses run by the locals. This will provide you with the opportunity to experience the minimalist lifestyle of the area, offering basic amenities such as comfortable bedding, delicious food, and clean washrooms.
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What kind of bikes will I use during the tour and do I need to bring my personal equipment?
For your specific needs, we recommend using mountain bikes that are designed for rough and offbeat trails. These bikes are equipped with full suspension to provide optimal comfort and control while riding. The professional bikes provided are specifically designed to offer a hassle-free experience during your tour in the Upper Mustang region. During the tour, participants will be provided with essential equipment including bicycles and helmets. During the tour, you have the option to bring additional essentials such as gloves and knee pads to better your comfort.
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Can I use a regular bicycle instead of a mountain bike for the Upper Mustang Mountain biking tour?
The Upper Mustang mountain biking tour is an exciting adventure that will take you to rugged and thrilling locations. To navigate the challenging terrain, it is recommended to use bikes specifically designed for rough roads. Traveling to these places with regular bikes can significantly increase the risk of damaging the bikes and sustaining severe injuries.
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Is altitude sickness a potential risk during the Upper Mustang Mountain Biking Tour?
The upper Mustang region is situated at an altitude exceeding 3000m above sea level. During the trek, there is a potential risk of experiencing high altitude sickness. Altitude sickness becomes more likely above 2500m, but by taking necessary precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Upper Mustang.
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What kind of challenges should I look out for during cycling time?
There are a few things you need to keep in mind while traveling to the highlands. The Upper Mustang is located at a high elevation, so it's important to maintain a steady pace, drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness, and be prepared for the challenges posed by the rough trail. One must be cautious of loose stones as they may be a danger when traveling on off-road terrain.
Services Includes
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All arrivals and departures at the airport as mentioned.
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Domestic flights transfer from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Pokhara to Jomsom, and Pokhara to Kathmandu.
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Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
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Comfortable Local Lodge or Tea house accommodation during the trip.
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Daily breakfast throughout the trip.
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Lunch and dinner at the local lodge or tea house as mentioned.
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All necessary paperwork. (ACAP Permit, TIMS Card, and Restricted Area Permit)
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An English-speaking, experienced, licensed, and professional mountain biking guide throughout the trip.
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A well-equipped medical kit with necessary medications throughout the trail (carried by the guide)
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A support jeep crew throughout your cycling trip from Jomsom to Beni to carry your mountain bikes and necessary equipment.
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All government and local taxes.
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Guide’s salary, food, and accommodation during the trip.
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Well-equipped medical kit with necessary medication. (carried by the guide)
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Arrangement of emergency helicopter service which your traveler’s insurance company will pay.
Services Excludes
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Personal expenses.
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Nepal visa cost. (You will require 2 passport-size photos and 40 USD for a 30-day Nepal tourist visa; visa forms can be filled out online in advance)
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International flight ticket.
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Travel health insurance. (Highly Recommended)
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Tips for the guide and driver. (Recommended)
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Sweet things like dessert/chocolate.
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All alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
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Hot showers/batteries charge/heater/mineral water during the trek.
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Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the included section.
Why Travel With Altitude Himalaya?
We believe in the quality services to accommodate our guests 360 degrees need with tour personalization and customization. Our dedicated and experienced team believes not only in arranging trips, but making creating life long memories. Our travel experience within the region of Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet could make a memorable trip of yours.
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