Embarking on an adventure to Nepal’s Mustang Valley is like stepping into an entirely different world. Known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking landscapes, it’s one of the most adventurous and dangerous routes you can ride on. If you’re a passionate biker from Bangladesh or anywhere else, this experience will challenge you, thrill you, and leave you with unforgettable memories.
In this blog, I will share my personal experience of riding through the Mustang Valley in Nepal, from preparations and tips to navigating the treacherous roads. Read on to learn about everything you need to know if you plan to take this journey yourself.
Preparing for the Mustang Valley Ride
The Mustang Valley ride is not for the faint-hearted. It requires a lot of preparation, both physically and mentally. First, ensure that you have solid off-road and hill riding experience. The roads here are rough, with sharp turns, rivers, and extreme weather conditions. Without proper skills, this ride could be dangerous.
I suggest planning your ride during the summer months, as I traveled in February and faced temperatures as low as -12°C, along with heavy snow. The weather made it even more challenging, with icy roads and water that could cause your bike to fall if not careful. Moreover, at such low temperatures, your hands and feet will freeze quickly if exposed to water, making it crucial to be well-prepared for the cold.
What You Need to Bring
- Passport: Essential for traveling to Nepal. Since Nepal is a SAARC country, Bangladeshi citizens don’t need a visa.
- Winter Gear: Ensure you have a good quality riding jacket, waterproof boots, and gloves. These will protect you from the freezing temperatures.
- Snacks: Bring dry foods like biscuits and roti, as Nepali cuisine may not be to your liking.
- Currency: It’s best to carry dollars, as the exchange rate for Bangladeshi Taka is quite low in Nepal.
- Basic Medicines: Carry necessary medications and drinking water with you.
Day-by-Day Itinerary for the Mustang Valley Ride
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arriving at Kathmandu’s airport, you will need to take a taxi to Thamel, a popular tourist area in the city. The taxi fare is around 400-500 Nepali Rupees (1 Nepali Rupee = 1.33 Bangladeshi Taka). From Thamel, you can easily find a hotel or contact the owner of OYO Hotel Beli Nepal, Rajan Sedai, for a more personal and comfortable experience.
For dinner, visit a Muslim restaurant near Rajan’s hotel for a satisfying meal of paratha and chicken, avoiding Nepali dishes as they may not suit your taste.
Day 2: Renting a Bike and Preparing for the Ride
On the second day, rent a motorbike from BS Motorbike for the best selection. You can choose from bikes like FZS V2, Hornet 150, or FZS 250, all of which are well-suited for your ride. After renting the bike, head to the government tourism office to obtain the necessary permits for riding to Mustang Valley (Muktinath).
Once you’ve secured the permits, you will ride to Pokhara, a scenic town about 210 km from Kathmandu. The journey will take approximately 6 hours, including stops for meals and sightseeing. In Pokhara, stay near the lake area at affordable hotels like Hotel White In, where you can enjoy Bangladeshi cuisine.
Day 3: Heading Towards Beni
Start your ride early and head towards Beni, where you’ll encounter both paved and unpaved roads. This section involves a mix of off-road terrain, so be prepared for a tough ride. After a rest in Beni, continue towards Tatopani for a challenging ride along rugged mountain paths and streams.
Day 4: The Most Dangerous Part – The Road to Mustang Valley
The next day, you’ll travel to Jomsom from Tatopani, covering a distance of around 15 km but taking over an hour due to the rough, rocky roads. The real adventure begins as you ride towards Mustang Valley – one of the most dangerous and scenic roads in the world.
At night, you’ll find simple accommodation in Jomsom or nearby villages. If you’re not comfortable with the cold, consider staying in a heated room.
Day 5: Muktinath – The Ultimate Goal
After a challenging ride through extreme conditions, you will finally reach Muktinath, located at an altitude of 13,000 feet. Reaching this sacred site is an emotional moment as you realize you’ve conquered one of the world’s most dangerous routes. Be prepared for temperatures as low as -18°C during winter months.
Day 6: Return Journey
On your return journey, you’ll find that the roads seem less intimidating, as you’ve already adapted to the harsh conditions. Although the return trip is slightly easier, always stay cautious as the terrain can be unpredictable.
Additional Tips and Information
- Total Cost: The overall cost for this trip, including flight, food, hotel, and bike rental, comes to approximately 45,000-50,000 Bangladeshi Taka. Food can be expensive in Nepal, so bring your own snacks.
- Extra Time: Always factor in at least two extra days for unexpected delays due to roadblocks, weather, or other issues.
- Driving in Nepal: Traffic rules in Nepal are strict, and penalties for violations can be hefty. Ride safely and respect local traffic laws.
- Communication: Most Nepali people understand Hindi and English, so communication will not be difficult.
Conclusion
The Mustang Valley Ride is an unforgettable experience that offers a true test of your riding skills and mental toughness. The roads may be challenging, but the reward at the end is worth every effort. I hope this guide will help other passionate bikers from Bangladesh and beyond experience this remarkable adventure. Safe riding!
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