Imagine this: crisp mountain air in your lungs, winding roads ahead, snow-capped peaks towering around you, and the roar of your Royal Enfield or dirt bike beneath you. That’s the motorbike tour in Nepal raw, rugged, and undeniably exhilarating.
Unlike conventional tours, motorbike travel in Nepal offers unmatched freedom and connection with nature. Whether you’re a solo rider or part of a group, exploring Nepal by motorbike especially from Kathmandu is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. This guide covers everything you need to know, from route planning and costs to choosing the best motorbike tour agency in Nepal.
Nepal is a paradise for adventure motorcyclists for several reasons:
Epic Himalayan backdrops
Remote valleys, mountain passes, and cultural villages
Challenging off-road trails mixed with smooth highways
Spiritual and cultural highlights at every stop
Low traffic density outside cities
Affordable tours, rentals, and services
This isn’t just about riding. It’s about freedom, culture, and soul-touching scenery.
Kathmandu is the gateway to many unforgettable rides. Here’s a list of the most popular motorbike tours from Kathmandu, ranging from short rides to full-scale Himalayan expeditions:
Duration: 2–3 Days round-trip
Distance: ~200 km (one way)
Highlights: Trishuli River Valley, hill views, lakeside Pokhara
Road Conditions: Mostly paved, scenic, and beginner-friendly
Duration: 7–10 Days
Distance: ~400–500 km one way
Highlights: Himalayan desert terrain, Muktinath Temple, Kali Gandaki gorge
Road Conditions: Mix of tarmac and extreme off-road; best with dirt bikes or Royal Enfield Himalayan
Duration: 10–14 Days
Distance: ~1,100 km round trip
Highlights: Remote Karnali region, Rara National Park, alpine lake beauty
Road Conditions: Challenging and wild — for advanced riders
Duration: 3–5 Days
Distance: ~300 km
Highlights: Gaurishankar, Bhote Koshi River, lesser-visited paths
Ideal For: Offbeat adventure seekers
These motorbike tours in Nepal from Kathmandu blend thrill with spirituality, scenery, and rural exploration.
Whether you go solo or with a motorbike tour agency in Nepal, most full packages include:
Item | Included |
---|---|
Bike Rental (Royal Enfield, Honda XR, etc.) | Yes |
Fuel & Maintenance | Yes |
Accommodation (Lodges/Hotels) | Yes |
Meals (Usually B/L/D) | Yes |
Road Captain / Tour Guide | Yes |
Mechanic Backup & Support Vehicle | Often included |
Permits (TIMS, ACAP, etc.) | Yes |
Insurance (Optional) | (Buy separately) |
Bike Type | Price/Day (USD) |
---|---|
Royal Enfield Classic 350/500 | $25–$40 |
Royal Enfield Himalayan 411 | $40–$55 |
Honda CRF 250L / XR 190L | $30–$45 |
Scooter (for city rides) | $10–$20 |
Tour Type | Duration | Cost (USD) |
---|---|---|
Kathmandu–Pokhara | 3 Days | $250–$400 |
Mustang Ride | 7–10 Days | $800–$1,300 |
Rara Lake Adventure | 12–14 Days | $1,200–$1,800 |
Custom Group Tours | Varies | Based on group size & route |
Known as the “Forbidden Kingdom,” this trail offers unmatched views and Tibetan culture. Requires special permits but is a dream ride.
Remote, soulful, and incredibly scenic this is Nepal’s hidden gem for motorcyclists.
You can’t ride to Everest Base Camp, but this trail gives you Everest glimpses with less difficulty.
While many companies offer motorbike tours, only a few are trusted by international riders, seasoned travelers, and motorbike vloggers. A professional motorbike tour agency in Nepal will:
Provide insured and well-maintained bikes
Offer licensed road captains familiar with off-road terrains
Arrange back-up vehicles, mechanics, and permits
Have excellent reviews and online presence
Know how to adapt to emergencies or weather challenges
Known for its trekking excellence, Nepal Planet Treks has expanded into motorbike expeditions, delivering the same level of quality, care, and adventure.
They offer:
Guided & self-guided tours
Tailor-made packages from Kathmandu
Bilingual tour leaders
24/7 support & rescue coordination
Drive on the left
🪪Carry your license + International Driving Permit (IDP)
Bring altitude and motion sickness medication
Carry power banks for remote stops
Pack warm gear, even in summer — elevation changes are extreme
Inspect your bike thoroughly before and during your ride
Respect local customs, keep noise levels down in villages, and ride responsibly — especially around temples and sacred sites.
Choosing a local agency and traveling slowly on two wheels supports:
Local tea houses, homestays, and mechanics
Conservation of remote villages through tourism
Deep cultural immersion over fast-paced sightseeing
Emissions awareness many tours are now offsetting carbon
A motorbike tour in Nepal is not just a vacation it’s a transformational journey through one of the most geographically and culturally rich nations on Earth. Whether you’re roaring across the dusty trails of Mustang or gliding along the green valleys toward Pokhara, every moment is a postcard in motion.
With the right motorbike tour agency in Nepal, your experience becomes seamless, safe, and spectacular.
1. What is the best motorbike tour in Nepal?
The Mustang motorbike tour is often considered the best due to its blend of rugged trails, Himalayan views, and Tibetan culture.
2. Can I do a motorbike tour in Nepal from Kathmandu?
Yes! Most tours start in Kathmandu and cover routes like Pokhara, Mustang, Rara, and even Dolakha.
3. How much does a motorbike tour cost in Nepal?
Tours range from $250 to $1,800, depending on duration, bike type, and services. Rentals start at $25/day.
4. Which is the best motorbike tour agency in Nepal?
Nepal Planet Treks is a top-rated agency offering both guided and custom motorbike tour packages from Kathmandu.
5. Is it safe to ride a motorbike in Nepal?
With a reliable guide and agency, yes. Roads vary, so experience with mountain terrain and off-road riding is beneficial.