Singletrack/MTB
Gravel/All-road
Dirt-road Touring
Fat-bike
Kim Gintrand’s latest video documents an unforgettable ride from Jomsom to Lo Manthang in Nepal’s Mustang region, sometimes referred to as the “Forbidden Kingdom.” In the video, Kim rides remote tracks across high-altitude deserts, learns from the locals, and is awed by breathtaking Himalayan scenery. Find a short written report, photos, and Kim’s trip video here…
Words and photos by Kim Gintrand
Mainly known for its remote Himalayan landscapes and centuries-old Tibetan culture, the Mustang region of Nepal offers one of the most unique environments for adventure riding. Once an independent kingdom and closed to foreigners until the early 1990s, the Upper Mustang remains a highly protected area today. Access still requires special permits and the presence of a local guide, which has helped preserve both the culture and the dramatic landscapes that define this high-altitude desert.
During a recent bikepacking trip, I set out to explore the route from Jomsom to Lo Manthang, deep in the heart of the Upper Mustang. The journey unfolds between towering Himalayan giants, including the imposing Dhaulagiri, which rises above 8,100 meters. Much of the route sits above 3,000 meters, with several high passes exceeding 4,200 meters, making altitude an ever-present companion throughout the ride.
The landscapes evolve dramatically as the route progresses. The first days are surrounded by snow-covered peaks and vast glaciated mountains, before gradually transitioning into the arid terrain that defines the Upper Mustang. Here, the valleys become wider and more desert-like, and the surrounding cliffs reveal incredible layers of color, shifting from deep orange tones to shades of grey and blue.
At the northernmost point of the journey lies Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Mustang, located just twenty kilometers from the Tibetan border. Reaching this historic town by bike feels like stepping into another world, where Tibetan traditions remain deeply rooted in everyday life.
While parts of the route follow the region’s main gravel road, a wide track that can be rough and bumpy at times, there are also numerous singletracks running alongside it. These smoother trails often offer a far more enjoyable ride and reveal the terrain’s true potential for gravel adventure riding.
Beyond the riding itself, the journey was also a chance to connect with the local culture. Along the way, we spent time with local people and even learned how to cook momos, the traditional dumplings that are as beloved in the region as the famous dal bhat. Guided by a local cook, we discovered the simple yet delicious process behind this iconic Himalayan dish, a moment that added a special cultural dimension to the adventure.
I recently released a short film documenting this journey, capturing both the raw beauty of the Upper Mustang and the unique experience of exploring it by bike. Riding through this remote Himalayan landscape, where altitude, culture, and geology collide, made for an unforgettable adventure and a reminder of just how vast and varied our planet still is.
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