Our bikes
Royal Enfield Himalayan motorcycle tours in Nepal
The bike built for these mountains, on the roads it was named after. Ride the Himalayan 450 or 411 to Upper Mustang, Muktinath and Manang with a guide and mechanic behind you.
Why we ride Royal Enfield Himalayans in Nepal
Royal Enfield has been the default touring bike in Nepal for decades, and the Himalayan is the model designed specifically for high, rough mountain roads. Parts are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara, mechanics in Beni, Jomsom and Chame know them inside out, and the upright riding position and long-travel suspension are exactly what the Kali Gandaki gorge demands.
Since 2024 the new Himalayan 450 has transformed Mustang riding. Its liquid-cooled engine loses far less power above 3,000 m than the old air-cooled bikes, so the climbs to Muktinath and the Kora La no longer feel like a struggle. We still offer the simpler Himalayan 411 for riders who want a cheaper, more forgiving bike.
Himalayan 450 vs Himalayan 411
| Himalayan 450 | Himalayan 411 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 452cc single, liquid-cooled | 411cc single, air/oil-cooled |
| Power | About 40 hp | About 24 hp |
| Wheels | 21″ front, 17″ rear | 21″ front, 17″ rear |
| At altitude | Strong above 3,500 m | Noticeably slower above 3,000 m |
| Electronics | Ride-by-wire, riding modes, switchable rear ABS | Basic — easy to fix anywhere |
| Seat height | Adjustable, roughly 825–845 mm | About 800 mm |
| Best for | Upper Mustang, Manang, experienced riders | Lower Mustang, Highlights loop, budget-conscious riders |
| Typical rental | USD 85–115/day | USD 40–55/day |
Shorter riders often prefer the Honda CRF250L, which is lighter and lower — see our dirt bike tours.
Tours you can ride on a Himalayan
| Tour | Days | Max altitude | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Mustang to Lo Manthang | 13 | ~4,010 m | Challenging |
| Lower Mustang and Muktinath | 10 | ~3,800 m | Moderate |
| Pokhara to Muktinath | 6 | ~3,800 m | Moderate |
| Annapurna circuit to Manang | 10 | ~3,540 m | Moderate–challenging |
| Nepal Highlights loop | 11 | ~2,400 m | Easy–moderate |
| Kathmandu to Pokhara | 3 | ~1,400 m | Easy–moderate |
Every guided tour includes the bike, fuel, a licensed riding guide and a mechanic carrying spares for the Himalayan.
Renting a Himalayan without a guide
You can hire a Himalayan 411 or 450 in Kathmandu or Pokhara and ride most of Nepal on your own, including Lower Mustang and Manang with an ACAP permit. Upper Mustang still requires a guide and a registered agency. See motorbike rental in Nepal for prices and documents.
Frequently asked questions
Can I rent a Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 in Nepal?
Yes. A small number of rental shops in Kathmandu and Pokhara now have the Himalayan 450, at about USD 85–115 a day. Availability is limited in October, so book early.
Is the Himalayan 450 better than the 411 for Mustang?
For Upper Mustang and Manang, yes — the extra power at altitude and better suspension make a real difference. For Lower Mustang and the Highlights loop, the 411 is perfectly adequate and cheaper.
Can I ride two-up on a Himalayan?
Yes, on most of our routes, though on the roughest sections of Upper Mustang a pillion may ride in the support jeep for a few kilometres.
Do you offer other Royal Enfield models?
Yes — the Classic 350 is available for tarmac routes such as Kathmandu to Pokhara and the Highlights loop.
Ride the Himalaya on a Himalayan
Tell us which bike you would like, your route and dates. We will confirm availability and send an itemised quote.