Mustang: The Legendary Expedition - vintagerides.com · A support vehicle with driver for groups...
Transcript of Mustang: The Legendary Expedition - vintagerides.com · A support vehicle with driver for groups...
Nepal
Mustang: The Legendary Expedition
©Stephane Gautronneau
Francis is a roaming biker is always venturing out on the routes to uncover sublime paths with as much
fervor as when he is sharing his stories. And stories, he has collected a whole lot of them since he joined
Vintage Rides team around a decade ago.
“Take a legendary motorcycle, the Royal Enfield, throw in some adventure-hungry bikers, and unleash
them on Mustang’s rugged trails – for a motorbike raid like no other!”
FRANCIS
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TRAVEL DESIGNER
A TRIP
An exceptional, action-packed motorbike tour in the land of Buddha and Everest.
Survey a string of very different landscapes, as you discover the rich diversity of
Nepalese culture. It’s hot to begin with: you steer close to the Terai jungle, visit superb
Newar temples, and ride between rice fields and terraced crops. Then you begin to
sense nearby Tibet: Annapurna and Dhaulagiri display their purity. And now you’re on
the rough trails of Mustang, in Buddhist lands. Royal Enfields are easy-to-drive
machines that can go everywhere. Look after them and they’ll carry you to great
heights. A motorcycle expedition for seasoned riders out to test their limits and
experience the ultimate.
WITH UNIQUE SENSATIONS
3
MAP
AT A GLANCE
3450 €From
4
6-8h riding a day Unexpected eventson the road
Remote regions
Period
April to May / October to November
Duration
14 days including 12 days riding
English-speakingtour leader
AccommodationStandard
LevelDemanding
©Stephane Gautronneau
©Elisabeth Fieujan
©Elisabeth Fieujan
YOUR TRIP IN 14 STAGES
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Reception at the airport according to your flight schedules, transfer to Patan (about 30 minutes). Your room is available from 12 am. 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, 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.
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.
©Elisabeth Fieujan
STAGE 1
STAGE 2
Arrive in Kathmandu (Patan): (1300m)
Patan - Chitwan [170 km* - 5h riding]: (230m)
©Elisabeth Fieujan
©Elisabeth Fieujan
YOUR TRIP IN 14 STAGES
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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.
STAGE 4
We start the day riding astride some elephants, to explore this beautiful area. A guided safari will provide one-horned rhinos, monkeys, crocodiles, and maybe if you’re lucky, an unforgettable encounter with a royal Bengal tiger, leopard or 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.
STAGE 3
Chitwan: (230m)
Chitwan - Tansen [190 km* - 5h riding]: (1300m)
©Elisabeth Fieujan
YOUR TRIP IN 14 STAGES
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STAGE 6
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.
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.STAGE 5
Tansen - Pokhara [130 km* – 4H riding]: (800m)
Pokhara - Tatopani [120 km* – 4H riding]: (1200m)
©Elisabeth Fieujan
©Elisabeth Fieujan
YOUR TRIP IN 14 STAGES
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STAGE 8
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.
After this short stage of around 45 km, Mustang will try to prove to us
that it reins king! The first section to Ghasa (18 km) 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.
STAGE 7
Tatopani - Marpha [45 km* - 3H riding]: (2700m)
Marpha - Jharkot [55 km* – 3H riding]: (3550m)
©Elisabeth Fieujan
©Elisabeth Fieujan
YOUR TRIP IN 14 STAGES
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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.
STAGE 10
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. STAGE 9
Jharkot - Tukuche [35 km* – 3H riding]: (2500m)
Tukuche - Tatopani [40 km* - 3H riding]: (1200m)
©Stephane Gautronneau
©Elisabeth Fieujan
©Elisabeth Fieujan
YOUR TRIP IN 14 STAGES
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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!
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.
©Elisabeth Fieujan
STAGE 11
STAGE 12
Tatopani - Begnas Lake [130 km* - 4H riding]: (500m)
Begnas Lake - Nuwakot
[200 km* - 5H riding]: (1000m)
©Elisabeth Fieujan
©Elisabeth Fieujan
YOUR TRIP IN 14 STAGES
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STAGE 14
Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to the airport. End of services.
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.STAGE 13
Nuwakot - Katmandou [70 km* - 2/3H riding]: (1300m)
Kathmandu - International airport:
*Riding distances are indicative.
HOW DO YOU WANT TO GO?
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Create a new group
3450 € / pilot*Pillions:
Strongly not advised
From 2 to 3: 5040 €From 4 to 5: 3850 €From 6 to 8: 3450 €
From 9 to 10: 3230 €From 11 to 12: 3130 €
From 08/04/18 to 21/04/18
From 24/03/18 to 06/04/18
Book your trip and join a group
Book now : [email protected]* Prices are indicative. Please refer to our general terms & conditions.
And enjoy
5% off your second trip
10% off your third trip and more
Always in the limit of 300 €
From 01/04/18 to 14/04/18
From 22/04/18 to 05/05/18
From 13/05/18 to 26/05/18
Personalise your motorbike trip by creating your own dates and group ! ''A la carte'' trips don't depend on the number of bikers in the group
- you can even set off in a duo!
From 21/10/17 to 03/11/17
From 03/11/17 to 16/11/17
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● A Royal Enfield 500cc motorcycle is provided with full mechanical assistance and all spare
parts
● Domestic transfers as appearing in the program, by private vehicle
● An English speaking Tour Leader (from day 2 to day 13)
● Fuel expenses
● An expert mechanic of Royal Enfield motorcycles
● A support vehicle with driver for groups with 4 or more participants; side luggage carrier for
groups of less than 4 participants
● Lodging in standard hotels, on a twin (two single beds) or triple-sharing basis (three single
beds). If you wish to stay in a single room (extra), please inform your travel advisor at the
time of registration.
● Meals: Full board meals during riding days (except during days of transfer: day 1 and day 14)
● Activities at Chitwan national park, as mentioned in the program
● Individual permit to enter into Mustang
● Third party motorcycle insurance
● Compulsory insurances, including repatriation assistance which covers you in case of
a motorbike accident in India and legal assistance
● International flights and airport taxes
● Visa fees
● A refundable security deposit of 400 € for every motorcycle
● Dinners and meals during days of transfers (day 1 and day 14)
● Admission fees to various monuments, temples etc.
● Souvenirs and personal expenses
● Drinks
● Tips
PRICE INCLUDES
PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
MORE INFO
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Appropriate equipment is a component of a successful journey!Travel lightly, TRY TO STAY UNDER 45LBS (20 KGS)
PERSONAL MEDICINE:
CLOTHES AND PERSONAL
EQUIPMENT:
❏ 2 light pants❏ 4 shirts (including some with long
sleeves, to protect yourself from the sun)
❏ 2 warm sweaters or jackets❏ Sunglasses❏ Hat❏ Sport shoes or trekking shoes❏ 1 liter canteen (flask) and a
flashlight (don’t forget the battery)❏ Some sweets and cereal bars
❏ Motorcycle boots are strongly advised or trekking shoes (waterproof)
❏ Warm motorbike jacket (synthetic preferred)
❏ A rain suit (just in case!)❏ Gloves❏ Helmet❏ Bandana
❏ Sunscreen lotion❏ Lip balm❏ Broad-spectrum antibiotic❏ Paracetamol❏ Anti-diarrhoea❏ Elastoplast❏ Skin disinfectant❏ Bandages and special blisters bandage
SPECIAL MOTORCYCLE
EQUIPMENT:
❏ 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, etc.
BAGS:
MY CHECKLIST
SLEEPING BAG:
❏ For people sensitive to the cold: a warmer sleeping bag, e.g., suitable for -10 ºC, or an extra duvet.
❏ Sleeping bag liner (recommended).To know: beds, mattresses and duvets will be provided on the site. Other sleeping material is optional and depends on the individual needs of every traveller.
CONTACT US
©Elisabeth Fieujan
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www.vintagerides.travel
Copyrights photos: Francois Combes - Marie-Pierre Wickert - Geraldine Shandilya - Jean-Paul Pache - Jean-Marie Fabre - Jean-Pierre Vacher - Catherine Bradefer
VINTAGE RIDES INDIA
C-65 Okhla phase 1 New Delhi - 110020
Tel: +339 70 44 01 30
VINTAGE RIDES FRANCE
98 Rue Baudin - 92300 Levallois-Perret
By appointment only
Tel: +337 68 13 89 07