Mustang : Legendary Expedition Nepal

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Mustang : Legendary Expedition Nepal 14 days - 12 days on the motorcycle Half Board Best period: October-November and March-April 2015-2016 program HIGHLIGHTS An exceptional diversity of landscapes

A challenging ride for bikers, in one of the deepest gorge of the world Breathtaking views of the highest peaks of the world Meeting with various local people, who are warm and rich in colour A

1 Mustang : Legendary Expedition Nepal 14 days - 12 days on the motorcycle Half Board Best period: October-November and March-April program HIGHLIGHTS An exceptional diversity of landscapes and cultures. Featuring the green valleys of Kathmandu, Hindu shrines, the rich Chitwan National Park in the Terai, large lunar landscapes, and the Buddhist monasteries of Mustang. A challenging ride for bikers, in one of the deepest gorge of the world Breathtaking views of the highest peaks of the world Meeting with various local people, who are warm and rich in colour A Timeless adventure in the heart of the great Himalaya TRAVEL DIFFICULTY: ADVENTURE This trip is for experienced bikers regularly maintaining their fitness. Within the Mustang region, we mainly ride on corrugated roads and dirt tracks, sometimes averaging a speed of 15km/h during certain sections. This trip is open only to pilots without passengers. ROYAL ENFIELD 500CC Royal Enfield Classis EFI, latest model. 5 Gears. The bikes have a European style gear shifting system (left side, first gear down) to ensure the comfort and safety for our riders.

LOGISTIC & ORGANISATION Your tour leader is a very experienced rider who speaks English and is familiar with the area you will visit.

The tour leader is not a local guide, so, for your convenience, we advise you to bring a pocket guide with you. The entourage comprises of a tour leader and a well experienced mechanic.

The van can also accommodate participants (who must be registered with a pilot) if they choose to enjoy the ride in the comfort of a van.

2 LOGISTIC & ORGANISATION Your tour leader is a very experienced rider who speaks English and is familiar with the area you will visit. He is in charge of coordinating the support team (mechanic, driver, helpers...) and makes sure that the group travels safely. The tour leader is not a local guide, so, for your convenience, we advise you to bring a pocket guide with you. The entourage comprises of a tour leader and a well experienced mechanic. For groups of more than three, a support vehicle will be provided to carry the luggage and the mechanical equipment. The van can also accommodate participants (who must be registered with a pilot) if they choose to enjoy the ride in the comfort of a van. To guarantee a safe and pleasant tour, we recommend a maximum of 12 participants, including riders and pillions. We can easily welcome more participants in our A la Carte and tailor-made options. In that case, for your own comfort and safety, the content of the program and the logistics might change (itinerary, number of accompanying persons and support vehicle...). For more information, please ask your travel advisor P a g e 1

AT A GLANCE Riding the legendary Royal Enfield, we travel more than 1200 km, mostly on good roads, and sometimes on corrugated roads and dirt tracks.

3 AT A GLANCE Riding the legendary Royal Enfield, we travel more than 1200 km, mostly on good roads, and sometimes on corrugated roads and dirt tracks. We first discover the jewels of Nepal within the Kathmandu Valley, the Chitwan National Park, the famous city of Pokhara, and lake Phewa. This unique route then takes us to Muktinath in Mustang region, for the mighty "raid-adventure". The trip has of numerous visits and strolls (by foot) in the cities and in the countryside, which are always optional. Nepal, cool oasis in the north of the Ganges plain, transports you into a world of various landscapes and cultures, where we will experience unique encounters with the local people, which makes this country one of the most warm and welcoming countries of South Asia. From Kathmandu, our route will first take us to Terai, near the border of India, into the heart of the rich Chitwan National Park for an unforgettable encounter with the local fauna and flora. The two nights on site will allow for a smooth beginning of our adventure. We then cross Tansen, which will offer us the first glimpse of the incredible Himalayan mountain chain. We then join the city of Pokhara, to enjoy its gleaming lake, and the boundless panoramic views. The sight of the massif of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna range will leave you in awe After we ride the road to the fabled region of Mustang, encircled by the highest peaks on the planet! After a stop at the hot springs of Tatopani, near the Anapurnas, we advance up to the Buddhist village of Marfa, up the Kali Gandaki River, through the deepest gorge in the world. The azoic and lunar universe of Mustang is now open to us, the trail climbs up to Jharkot, a quaint traditional village where we spend the night. A ride of a few kilometres will take us up to 3700m above sea level, we visit the temple of Muktinath, the highest point of our trip, and a sacred place meeting place of pilgrimage for Hindu s. Here, it will feel as though time stands still. The inhabitants of some surrounding villages still live according to ancient traditions, in harmony with the elements. The mountain peaks of over 7000m seem as though they are at your fingertips! During the descent to Beni, we gradually return to the Hindu world of lush highlands, where the good life and pleasant climate comfort us after this grueling ascent! We stop at Lake Begnas, for a well deserved evening of relaxation, with a massage, swimming and a barbecue! Back towards the capital, we have lunch in Bandipur, Newari, a charming village that blends tradition, history and warm hospitality of the local people. One night in a magnificent aristocratic house overlooking the village of Nuwakot, rewarding us for our efforts, before joining back up with Kathmandu. Our route is characterized by expanses of rice fields, impressive gorges, pine forests and lush mountain roads. Along the loop through Mustang, the track can sometimes be very rough, but still sublime! During your stay, accommodations can be quite basic (Mustang), but always carefully selected to meet the requirements of hygiene, comfort and service that our team works to maintain. P a g e 2

4 MAP P a g e 3

D 1: Arrival at Katmandou (Patan) (1300m) ITINERARY (Subject to change depending on circumstances) Reception at the airport according to your flight schedules, transfer to Patan (about 30 minutes).

Located on the outskirts of Kathmandu, Patan, also known as Lalitpur ("city of beauty"), has a long Buddhist history, and the four corners of the city are marked with several stupas from all periods.

The numerous temples that have withstood the earthquake of 25 April 2015, which adorn the Durbar Square, undoubtedly the most remarkable set of Newar architecture in Nepal.

5 D 1: Arrival at Katmandou (Patan) (1300m) ITINERARY (Subject to change depending on circumstances) Reception at the airport according to your flight schedules, transfer to Patan (about 30 minutes). Room available from 12am. This "city of beauty" as the Nepalese call it, is authentic and full of life, and is the ideal place for a first day of acclimatization. Overnight at the hotel. Located on the outskirts of Kathmandu, Patan, also known as Lalitpur ("city of beauty"), has a long Buddhist history, and the four corners of the city are marked with several stupas from all periods. As in Kathmandu, the former Royal Palace of Patan faces the central square. The numerous temples that have withstood the earthquake of 25 April 2015, which adorn the Durbar Square, undoubtedly the most remarkable set of Newar architecture in Nepal. D 2: Patan Chitwan (230m) [170 KM 5 H of riding] First day of the motorcycle trip, we head south west of Kathmandu, where we truly begin to appreciate the rural regions of Nepal. The landscape changes from one valley to the other, we ride a winding road through the traditional villages and terraced fields until we reach the Terai region: cereals granary of the country with troubling similarities to neighboring India. In the afternoon, we stroll through the jungle park where fauna and flora is abundant, featuring a contrast with the mountainous landscapes of the Himalayas. Night in Eco-lodge. P a g e 4

D 3: Chitwan (230m) We start the day riding astride some elephants, to explore this beautiful area.

Overnight at the hotel. Listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1984, the Chitwan National Park is one of the most significant tourist destinations of Nepal.

With the snow-capped Himalayas in the background, it's no wonder why this is a popular place to visit.

6 D 3: Chitwan (230m) We start the day riding astride some elephants, to explore this beautiful area. On this guided safari you will get the chance to see; horned rhinos, monkeys, crocodiles and if your lucky, an unforgettable encounter with a Royal Bengal tiger, a leopard or even a bear. In the afternoon, we venture into the hostile jungle, discovering crocodiles from Asia, and embark on a boat along the Narayani River to watch them in their natural habitat. Overnight at the hotel. Listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1984, the Chitwan National Park is one of the most significant tourist destinations of Nepal. The nature reserve protects 932 km2 of Sal forests (tree similar to South Asian Teck), swamps and rolling grasslands. With the snow-capped Himalayas in the background, it's no wonder why this is a popular place to visit. Chitwan is considered to be the "heart of the jungle", it is known to be the main National Park in Asia to observe wildlife. D 4: Chitwan - Tansen (1300m) [190 KM 5 H of riding] We make our way out of the jungle, heading north west, up winding mountain roads, onwards to Tansen. Here our Royal Enfields are in their element, and will thrive in their favourite playground. We visit a small town, hidden from the eyes of tourists, built on the mountainside where the quaint charm of the streets, and agitation offers a relaxing setting after a long days ride. Overnight at the hotel. P a g e 5

D 5: Tansen Pokhara (800m) [130 KM 4 H of riding] Beautiful stage to Pokhara, the road is good and goes up to the green valley of the river Aadhi Khola.

Nothing better embodies the splendid natural setting of Pokhara as the majestic Phewa Tal, the second biggest lake in the country.

The hike to the Pagoda of Peace offers breathtaking views of the lake and mountains in the background.

Pokhara, a relaxed version of Thamel in Katmandu, is enclosed by an exceptional setting where the exhaust gases are succeeded by the fresh mountain air.

7 D 5: Tansen Pokhara (800m) [130 KM 4 H of riding] Beautiful stage to Pokhara, the road is good and goes up to the green valley of the river Aadhi Khola. We remain vigilant to the entrance of Pokhara, where the traffic begins to increase. Arrival near the Phewa lake in the afternoon. Some free time. Overnight at hotel. Nothing better embodies the splendid natural setting of Pokhara as the majestic Phewa Tal, the second biggest lake in the country. Weather permitting, the Annapurna mountains are reflected to perfection in its calm waters, making it ideal for an outing by boat or kayak. The hike to the Pagoda of Peace offers breathtaking views of the lake and mountains in the background. If the Himalayas is the top of the world, then Pokhara, which lies at the foot of the majestic Annapurna range, is the gateway into the Himalayas. Pokhara, a relaxed version of Thamel in Katmandu, is enclosed by an exceptional setting where the exhaust gases are succeeded by the fresh mountain air. There are actually two districts within Pokhara. The first being the Lakeside, along the calm waters of the beautiful Lake Phewa Tal. This district offers a valuable refuge for many travellers that are exhausted after a long trek, and allows them to regain their strength by relaxing and enjoying the restaurants, cafes, and lively bars. The second district, is Old Pokhara, here you will see how Nepal was before it was discovered by the hippies, with charming enclaves of Newari architecture and the vitality of the local colours. D 6: Pokhara Tatopani (1200m) [120 KM 4 H of riding] The ride to Mustang begins! After around 80 kilometres, we pass through Beni, where we leave the paved roads behind us, and the real fun begins The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River, where the valley gradually narrows, and we finally see the first snow-capped mountain Annapurna appear before us, towering more than 8000m above sea level! After our first section of off-roading, we reach Tatoponi, welcomed with some hot springs for us to sit back and relax in. Night in a lodge. P a g e 6

J 7: Tatopani Marpha (2700m) [45 KM 3 H of riding] After this short stage of around 45 km, Mustang will try to prove to us that it reins king!

cross! The landscape on this day is truly spectacular, and will supply us the energy to push on and move forward!

D 8: Marpha Jharkot (3550m) [45 KM 3 H of riding] Today we take the measure of the ancient kingdom of Mustang, a masterful territory of rocks and deep canyons,

Making our way through this amazing azoic environment, we reach Jharkot, a medieval Buddhist village perched on a rocky outcrop.

8 J 7: Tatopani Marpha (2700m) [45 KM 3 H of riding] After this short stage of around 45 km, Mustang will try to prove to us that it reins king! The first section to Ghasa (18km) is the most difficult, for both man and machine: the track is rock-strewn, very steep in places, and features many fords to cross! The landscape on this day is truly spectacular, and will supply us the energy to push on and move forward! Arrival in the early afternoon at a splendid traditional Buddhist town of Mustang, called Marpha. Night in a lodge. D 8: Marpha Jharkot (3550m) [45 KM 3 H of riding] Today we take the measure of the ancient kingdom of Mustang, a masterful territory of rocks and deep canyons, dominated by the highest peaks of the world! We cross Jomsom, the largest village in the valley, and we gain altitude, until 3500m. Making our way through this amazing azoic environment, we reach Jharkot, a medieval Buddhist village perched on a rocky outcrop. Check in at the lodge around lunchtime. In the afternoon, we take a ride up to Muktinath, climbing higher (3700m) to visit the famous temple dedicated to Vishnu, one of the holiest destinations for Hindus, whom flock there from all over India and Nepal during the spring and autumn months. Back to Jharkot, overnight at the lodge. P a g e 7

D 9: Jharkot Tukuche (2500m) [35 KM 3 H of riding] Early breakfast. We descend into the Kali Gandaki valley, through a baron landscape, we ride along a track carved along the mountainside.

Back on the same road as the previous day, heading in the opposite direction to reach the conifers, and the village of Tukuche. Night in a lodge.

Once again, man and machine will be strained to reach Tatopani; where we can finally enjoy a nice chilled beer whilst relaxing in the hot and refreshing hot springs. Night at the lodge.

9 D 9: Jharkot Tukuche (2500m) [35 KM 3 H of riding] Early breakfast. We descend into the Kali Gandaki valley, through a baron landscape, we ride along a track carved along the mountainside. The view of the summit of Dhaulagiri, at over 8000m, provides an incredible sight that almost seems impossible to be real. We drink tea in the picturesque village of Kagbeni. Back on the same road as the previous day, heading in the opposite direction to reach the conifers, and the village of Tukuche. Night in a lodge. D 10: Tukuche Tatopani (1200m) [40 KM 3 H of riding] We go for the descent. It s hard to believe that we have already been down this track everything looks so different when one looks to the South! Once again, man and machine will be strained to reach Tatopani; where we can finally enjoy a nice chilled beer whilst relaxing in the hot and refreshing hot springs. Night at the lodge. D 11: Tatopani Begnas Lake (500m) [130 KM 4 H of riding] We enjoy 25 kilometers of dirt tracks, before returning to the comfort of asphalt! A tasty traditional meal awaits us at Sarangkot, a spot that is well known by paragliders, which offers an exceptional view of Pokhara and Phewa Lake. We make another 20km stint to reach lake Begnas, a quiet and beautiful oasis. To end the day: swimming, massage, and a BBQ! D 12: Begnas Lake Nuwakot (1000m) [200 KM 5 H of riding] A beautiful long day's ride takes us back towards Kathmandu. Along the Trishuli river, our path is strewn with various meetings with the locals, all in a landscape ranging from abundant rice fields, pine forest and imposing gorges. We stop in the charming village of Bandipur for lunch before continuing to Nuwakot. We stay in a charming traditional home in the splendid view of the valley. P a g e 8

Evident by its bazaars, Bandipur was once a great merchant centre on the road to Tibet to India. Temples and multi-storey houses line the narrow cobbled streets.

This area has been spared by the standard concrete structures and the influence of consumer societies, here the children greet the visitors to a warm Namaste.

10 Evident by its bazaars, Bandipur was once a great merchant centre on the road to Tibet to India. Temples and multi-storey houses line the narrow cobbled streets. The construction of the road you are borrowing and the eradication of malaria in the Terai condemned Bandipur to oblivion for 40 years, maintaining its traditional Newari lifestyle. This area has been spared by the standard concrete structures and the influence of consumer societies, here the children greet the visitors to a warm Namaste. The small village of Nuwakot located 70km northwest of Kathmandu, is a real gem, still unknown and untouched to the outside world. In the 18 th century, Nuwakot was the Nepalese capital for around 6 years, until the Kathmandu valley was conquered by the sovereign Prithvi Narayan Shah. Established on a ridge overlooking the valley of Trshuli, on a clear day you can see the summit of Manaslu of over 8000m, a spectacular sight. The architecture of the houses and fort dates back to 1762, and is typical of Newari. Partially damaged by the earthquake of April 25, 2015, the village and its people need tourists to inject money into it more than ever! D 13: Nuwakot Kathmandu (1300m) [70 KM - 2H30 of riding] After a hearty breakfast served in the roof garden of our guest house, we hit the road for the final day of motorcycling. We follow a narrow and beautiful road, we head towards Shivapuri National Park, before returning to the capital for lunch. Its bid farewell to our steel-horses. In the afternoon, there is a possibility of visiting the stupa of Boudhanath, or a religious site of Pashupatinath. We spend our last evening at Kathmandu, in the Thamel district, which is famous for its bars, restaurants, and live music! Overnight stay at a hotel. For many travelers, Kathmandu is an assault on all the senses, the eyes, the nose, the ears are assailed on all sides. Everything contributes to the experience, making it intoxicating and authentic. A stroll through the narrow streets you will be able to discover the extraordinary cultural and artistic heritage, with hidden temples adorned with garlands of carnations. D 14: Kathmandu International Airport Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to the airport. End of services. P a g e 9

11 PRICES & SERVICES* Fixed Departure From 02/04 to 15/04 From 17/04 to 30/ $/pilot For groups of 4 plus : 2670 /pilot 2016 Formula A La Carte 11/12 pers. = 3130$ 9/10 pers. = 3230$ 6/8 pers.= 3450$ 4/5 pers. = 3850$ 2/3 pers. = 5040$ Pillions: not recommended Rates are valid for any travel between the 1 st october 2016 to the 31 december 2016 PRICES INCLUDE o A Royal Enfield 500cc motorcycle is provided with full mechanical assistance and all spare parts; o Domestic transportation as appearing in the program, by private vehicle; o An English speaking Tour Leader (from day 2 to day 10); o Fuel expenses o An expert mechanic of Royal Enfield motorcycles o A support vehicle with driver for groups with more than 4 participants; side luggage carrier for groups of less than 5 participants. o Lodging: in comfort hotels, in double bed rooms on a twin-sharing basis. If you wish to stay in a single room (extra), please inform your travel advisor at the time of registration. o Meals: Half board (Breakfast and Luch Except days 1 and 14) o Activities at Chitwan national park, as mentioned in the program. o Individual permit to enter into Mustang o Third party motorcycle insurance. PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE o Compulsory insurances, which include repatriation costs in case of an accident and legal assistance. o International Flights and airport taxes o Visa fees o A refundable security deposit of 400 for the motorcycles. o Bank Charges o Lunch (day 1, day 14) o Dinners o Admission fees to various monuments, temples etc. o Drinks and personal expenses o Tips P a g e 10

12 My checklist Appropriate equipment is a component of a successful journey! Travel lightly, TRY TO STAY UNDER 45LBS (20 KGS) BAGS: A sailor bag would be perfect, a walker's bag too (without steel bar). You can close it with a padlock if you want to (Don t forget to tag it before leaving with your address. Also with the address of Vintage Rides in India) A small backpack of 20 litres is advised for daily necessities such as camera, sunscreen lotion CLOTHES AND PERSONAL EQUIPMENT: 2 light pants 2 warm sweaters or jackets A swim suit Sun glasses Hat Light sport shoes Flip flops Some sweets and cereal bars 4 shirts (including some with long sleeves, to protect yourself from the sun) 1 liter canteen (flask) and a flashlight (don t forget the batteries) SPECIAL MOTORCYCLE CLOTHES: Warm motorbike jacket (synthetic preferred) A rain suit (just in case!) Gloves Helmet Bandana Motorcycle boots are strongly advised or trekking shoes (waterproof) PERSONAL MEDICINE: Sun screen lotion Lip balm Broad-spectrum antibiotic Paracetamol Anti-diarrhoea Elastoplast Skin disinfectant Bandages and special blisters bandage P a g e 11

Nepal. Mustang: The Legendary Expedition

Nepal. Mustang: The Legendary Expedition Nepal Mustang: The Legendary Expedition TRAVEL DESIGNER Stephane Gautronneau FRANCIS Francis is a biker always venturing out on the road to uncover new routes with as much passion as he has telling stories.