The best way to explore the Kathmandu Valley is on a mountain bike. Nepal ‘s diverse terrain is a mountain biker’s dream adventure come true. Mountain biking offers an environmentally sound way of exploring this magnificent country, its landscape and living heritage. There are plenty of dirt roads and trails in Nepal to meet every mountain biker’s wildest fantasy. Mountain biking is specially recommended if you wish to explore urban centers of Nepal such as Pokhara and Kathmandu as well as the countryside. Adventurous souls may plan extended trips to such exotic locales as Namche Bazaar, and western Nepal . You could even do the entire length of Nepal across the plains. Mountain bikes are available for rent by the day or longer in many of the bicycle rental outlets in and around the city.
Adventure Cycling Tours
We also organize cycling tours around the Kathmandu Valley and beyond. Cycling is a great way to travel around Nepal and it is becoming increasingly popular. Why not to try some biking after you have been on one of our trekking and rafting trips?
Day 01: Kathmandu to Nagarkot (38 km)
Ride starts early after breakfast from Kathmandu, we pass medieval town of Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur is an ancient city present full of Newari culture, many temples and squares. After exploring Bhaktapur we head northeast to Nagarkot on pitch road. We slowely climb 20km to Nagarkot passing steeply terraced rice fields and houses. When we reach on the top, if weather permit, we will be able to see the Himalayan range of Langtang and Khumbu region. Overnight on the guest Hotel/guest house.
Day 02: Nagarkot – Namo Buddha- Dhulikhel (35 km)
We eat breakfast with sunrise views over the Himalayas. After we ride downhill leaving Nagarkot top to Nala other Newari Village. On the way we pass some interesting villages of Chetri and Bharamans people and their daily lives on the fields. Then we leave for Dhulikhel on a dirt trail climbing and descending small hill before reaching the holy Buddhist site of Namo Buddha. According to legend it was here that Buddha, in a previous incarnation, fed his flesh to a hungry tigress as an offering. A stone statue marks the site; there is an active monastery on top of the hil. We follow the picturesque view along tarmac and dirt roads back to Dhulikhel. We spend a night at Dhulikhel. Enjoy sunrise in the morning.
Day 03: Namo Buddha to Pauwa – Timal Danda (36 km)
After breakfast trip begin to famous Timal Danda, where lives majority of Tamang people. First part of the riding up to Bhakunde Besi is fine pitched road. From there start up hill with full of dust road up to Timalcot. From top of the TimalDanda you will see fantastic views of Himalyan range and Sun koshi river valley to north and south to Mahabharat range. Once you are on top the trip follows will small up and downs and passes many Tamang village up to Pawa.
Day 04: Pauwa to Dhulikhel (37 km)
Ride starts after breakfast with Himalayan views on the north side. Return same trial up to Timalkot. From Timalcot will take a fantastic downhill dust road to Panchal valley. We cross small river call Ghue Khola and follow the small track of Valley up to Tinpiple of Tamaghat. From here up to Dhulikhel friendly up hill with pitched road.
Day 05: Dhulukhel to Kathmandu via Lubhu Sisneri (33 km)
Final day of ride passing ancient city of Panauti. This is less known town rarely visited by tourists. Indreswor Mahadev Temple in Panauti is the oldest surviving temple in Nepal, believed to be constructed in 1294A.D. Climbing west; we follow small track along the Roshi River. Beyond the town of Madhuban, we enter into a narrow pristine valley ascending 300m on superb trail to reach the summit of Lakhuri Bhanjyang. This is probably the oldest route east out of Kathmandu Valley, connecting the ancient cities of the valley with Panauti. The ethnicity of the people change as we descend from Tamangs, Thakuries and Chhetris to lowland Newari farmers. We then cycle the last part of our journey from Sisneri to Kathmandu city with short visit to Patan Durbar Square.
Day 01: Kathmandu to Nagarkot
Day 02: Nagarkot to Namo Buddha
Day 03: Namobuddha to Dolalghat same day rafting for about 4 hours on Sunkoshi
River up to Dumja overnight camp in the tent on river bank.
Day 04: Bicycle to Namo Buddha.
Day 05: Namo Buddha to Kathmandu via Panauti and Lubhu Sisneri.
Day 01: Kathmandu to Namobuddha via Lubhu Sisneri and Panauti.
Day 02: Namo Buddha to Nagarkot via Dhulikhel
Day 03: Nagarkot to Kathmandu via Bhaktapur.
4. A day down hill trip:
1- Timal Danda to Panchkhal valley
2- Nagarkot to Bhaktaour
3- Phulchoki to Godawari Botanical Garden
4- Kakani to Budanilakantha.
22 Days Cycling in Tibet Lhasa – Everest Base Camp – Kathmandu
19 Days Cycling in Tibet (on teahouse basis)
22 Days Cycling in Tibet Lhasa – Everest Base Camp – Kathmandu
Tibet- Shangri-La, the land of snows, the roof of the World. Tibet is a land of ancient Buddhist culture having awesome landscapes, artistic monasteries and century’s old caravan trails. Tibet which is an autonomous region of China, lies on a plateau at an average elevation of 4,000 m. It is bounded the Kunlun mountains to the north and the Himalayan to the south. Tibet covers an area of 1.2 million sq. km, and has a population of 2.3 million.
Tibet is a sacred land of myths and mysteries inhabited by the ever smiling people has not only exerted magnetic spell upon travelers for centuries but also spies, missionaries, scholars, geographers, mystics, soldiers and cranks etc, yet, few intrepid serious and determined have been able to make it. Tibet being extremely remote and isolated by the most formidable Himalayan ranges, a fascinating world of timeless splendor, unique tradition and breathtaking scenery awaits all travelers to the roof of the world.
A fully supported expedition in Tibet and Nepal, riding from the ancient capital of Lhasa across Tibet via base of the Mount Everest Base Camp and then on into the Nepal and the Kathmandu valley on the second-longest downhill (two and a half days) in the world. This trip, with accommodations in local teahouses and camp, offers those bikers with an adventurous spirit to live up close with the mysterious nomadic people of Tibet and experience this vast and unique landscape on a more personal level.
This expedition allows time for exploring many of Tibet’s most fascinating cities and monasteries and gives the rider the opportunity to ride the best and most scenic portions of the friendship highway that links these two ancient Himalayan Kingdoms. Support vehicles carry all equipment (and riders who may need a rest on the climbs!) giving us the freedom to accommodate participants of many different levels of riding skills.
An experienced Nepali mountain bike guide, fluent in English and Tibetan, will ride with you, look after you and your equipment, help you with all-important altitude, acclimatization and other health matters, and deal with Chinese officials and support crew. Your trip starts and finishes in Kathmandu, where the guide will take care of all your last-minute needs, endorse your Chinese visas, and ensure that this fantastic, once-in-a-lifetime experience will also be trouble-free.
From April to October is the best season for riding. There isn’t much rain in Tibet as it’s a plateau behind the Himalayan range but it rains some extent during July and August and rest of the season is fine with clear sky. There may be snowing in the high passes if it rains during April and end of October. Temperature ranges from 0-15?c depending upon altitude weather.
Cycling Profile:
16 full days, 2 half days cycling on rough, dirt and pot holed roads non-technical mountain biking with 100% vehicle support. We ride 90% off road, 45 to 65 Km. a day, mostly flat, undulating or downhill! We ride total distance and altitude as follows:
Group size:
Min 4pax, plus Nepali guide-medically trained and experienced, drivers, Tibetan guide and extra Nepali MTB guide if numbers dictate.
Contact us for itinerary and cost details at info@friendshiptrek.com and friendshiptrek@gmail.com
Tour cost Included:
1. Air ticket: Kathmandu to Lhasa,
2. Hotels in Kathmandu, Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, and Dhulikhel are on B & B basis.
3. Full Camping Support with all meals
4. Packed lunch during staying hotels in Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse
5. Tibetan Guide
6. Nepali Cycling Guide cum Mechanic
7. Support Vehicles
8. Tibet Visa
9. Entrance fees in Lhasa and Shigatse.
Cost doesn’t included:
1. Airport Tax in Kathmandu
2. Excess baggage charges
3. Dinner in hotels at Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse
4. Bikes
5. Soft/hard drinks
6. Emergency evacuation fee
7. Insurance of any kind and other expenses of Personal Nature.
Duration: 8 Days
Best Season: January-May, September-December
Altitude Range: 1300m to 2100m
Difficulty: Strenuous
Group Size: Min. 4
Average Daily Distance: 40 km
Support: Support Vehicle, Guide-cum-Mechanic
BRIEF ITINERARY
Day 01: Thamel to AAA Farm via Bungamati and Lele (35km with no significant altitude gain.)
Day 02: AAA Farm to Nagarkot (28km with 600m altitude gain)
Day 03: Rest day or off-road to Shivapuri ridge (10km) and Nagarkot summit (10km)
Day 04: Nagarkot to Panchkhal/Sunkosi Adventure Retreat (40km with 900m descent to Panchkhal and 200m altitude gain to Resort)
Day 05: Sunkosi Adventure Retreat to Panchkhal (10km with 200m descent), Dhulikhel (27km with 200m altitude gain).
Day 06: Dhulikhel, Namo Buddha, Dhulikhel
Day 07: Dhulikhel to Sisneri via Panauti/Drive to Kathmandu (45km with 300m ascent and descent)
Day 08: Transfer to Kathmandu Airport/Departure
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 01: Thamel to AAA Farm via Bungamati and Lele (35km with no significant altitude gain.)
After breakfast, hopefully with a clear view of the Ganesh and Langtang Himals, we descend and cross-over the Bagmati River by swing footbridge?Watch your balance! We carry our bikes uphill for a short distance to reach the picturesque villages of Khokana and Bungamati. Get ready to enter the fourteenth century! In many temples in these villages ancient rituals are still practiced. The Shekali Mai, nature valley goddess, temple in Khokana is one temple we will visit. We shall be praying for good balance for the roads ahead! In the main square of Bungamati, there are the temples of Macchendranath, the compassionate god of agricultural prosperity who is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. We then climb southwards on jeep track through forests to the village of Champi and on to the sleepy village of Lele. The steep climb out of Lele will test your stamina as we cut back northwards to a forest ridge. Continuing north the descent to Chapagaon village offers excellent views of Kathmandu Valley. Chapagaon is home to the Vajra Varahi temple, the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Ancient woodland surrounds the temple, protected by the local belief that to cut even one tree would greatly anger the deity. The villagers still appease the wrathful Vishnu by weekly sacrifices of chicken, goat, and buffaloes.
After lunch we continue along jeep track to the undulating southern end of the valley, soon reaching the foot of Bishanku Narayan temple. Folklore says the demon Bhasamur was tricked by Lord Vishnu here and was turned into ashes. We ride clockwise round this heavily forested knoll, said by folklore to have been fertilized by Bhasamur’s ashes. Here we bear east on shingle and jeep track to join a tarmac road passing through the village of Lubhu, known for its handmade clothes. Just beyond is our evening’s rustic lodging at ‘Lotus Farm’. This charming Chhetri farmhouse is at least 75 years old and looks it. Well you have to rough it one night right?
Day 02: AAA Farm to Nagarkot (28km with 600m altitude gain)
Early morning farm activities awake us and we can enjoy the sunrise views from the terrace. After breakfast, we ride to the medieval town of Bhaktapur. This restored old city is full of temples and courtyards. After spending sometime exploring this ancient city we head northeast on tarmac road passing lush rice fields on the base of Nagarkot where we join a steep jeep track. We climb to a narrow ridge where there is some great single-track riding. The track brings us to the temple complex of Changu Narayan where, in the sixth and seventh centuries, Newari stone masons made beautiful carvings to Lord Vishnu. The stone tablet standing on the West side of the temple is said to be the earliest known inscription in Kathmandu Valley. It depicts King Mahadev’s military conquests in the fifth century. From here we descend the North side of the ridge along a washed our jeep track to the Manohara River. Crossing the river can be tricky depending on the monsoon rains. If you want, give it a try but you’ll likely end up looking a fool pushing your bike ahead of you!
We have lunch once reaching the other side of the river, drying out shoes in the sun. We’ll continue north to the village of Sankhu and the Bajra Yogini (a Tantri goddess) temple complex, lined with old water tanks, rest house and a vermilion-powdered and blood adorned triangular stone where animal sacrifices are still made. It is believed that this goddess was the motivating force behind Manjushri, who drained the lake that once filled the Kathmandu Valley. We now climb steeply to the summit of Nagarkot. We lodge for the night on the North side of the hill at the ‘View Point Hotel’.
Day 03: Rest day or off-road to Shivapuri ridge (10km) and Nagarkot summit (10km)
If you don’t want to rest, there is optional morning or afternoon rides on this so-called rest day. A three hours morning ride ascends the southern slopes of Shivapuri ridge to the North (Jarsing Pauwa), to soak in sweeping views to the whole valley and Jungle Himal. This ride returns to the guesthouse for lunch. The three hours afternoon ride goes to the Nagarkot tower at the summit (2,165m), for fantastic views of the Himalayas. We ride on paved and jeep road. The choice is yours.
Day 04: Nagarkot to Panchkhal/Sunkosi Adventure Retreat (40km with 900m descent to Panchkhal and 200m altitude gain to Resort)
The day begins with an exciting descent along a single track. We pass through several villages and small ancient shrines, with fantastic views of the Himalayas. Soon after the Tamang village of Balwapati we enter a section of trail we call the ‘Mini-Grand Canyon’, which is a narrow two-foot-deep eroded trail. The canyon will test your half-pedaling and track-stand skills, not to mention your balance! Hang in there; it’s only about 30m long. You will also learn the Nepali phrase “raato maato chiplo baato”? red mud, slippery trail.
We reach the village of Lamsai, overlooking the Indrawati River, by a demanding single track. From here we join a jeep road that follows the Chok Khola (River), a tributary of the Indrawati, winding our way through a golden sea of rice crops. Soon we reach Panchkhal and the paved, but rarely traveled road to the Tibetan border. One kilometre uphill and we take another spur road to the east. We grunt nine kilometers uphill to the summit of a long ridge, known as Palanchowk to our lodge the Sunkosi Adventure Retreat.
Day 05: Sunkosi Adventure Retreat to Panchkhal (10km with 200m descent), Dhulikhel (27km with 200m altitude gain).
From the Sunkosi Adventure Retreat we can enjoy the stunning views of the Gaurishankhar Himal and the mist-choked valleys of the Indrawati and Sunkosi Rivers far below. After breakfast we ride east to the summit of Palanchowk and the famous temple, which shares the same name. From here the only way out is down! We take the express route off the steep southern face on a switch back single track. Be careful on the turns?remember you are not wearing a parachute! Once we reach the valley floor we cut back to the Tibetan highway. The last two kilometers are wrist-numbing cobblestone. Remind yourself?this too shall pass. We then have an 18km uphill ride to Dhulikhel and our lodge for the night.
Day 06: Dhulikhel, Namo Buddha, Dhulikhel
After breakfast at the Dhulikhel Lodge, we climb out of Dhulikhel on dirt and tarmac encountering two hills before reaching the Buddhist pilgrimage site of Namo Buddha. According to legend, it was here that Buddha, in a previous incarnation, gave his flesh to a hungry tigress as an offering. A stone statue marks the site, and there is an active monastery. Leaving this hilltop, we plunge into the lush fields below to a small village before contouring our way back uphill to Dhulikhel and our lodge.
Day 07: Dhulikhel to Sisneri via Panauti/Drive to Kathmandu (45km with 300m ascent and descent)
We descend on jeep track to the ancient city of Panauti where Lord Buddha lived as a prince prior to his offering to the hungry tigress. This city is truly lost in time and is rarely visited by tourists. The Indresara Mahadev Temple is the oldest surviving dated temple in Nepal, believed to have been built in 1294 AD. Climbing west, we follow a jeep track along the meandering Roshi River. Beyond the town of Madhuban we enter a narrow pristine valley, ascending 300m on a superb single trail to reach the summit of a hill on Kathmandu Valley’s rim. This is probably the oldest route east out of Kathmandu Valley, known as Lakhure Bhanjung. What a grunt, but the views of the Himalayas more than compensate! From here we descend 500m via switch back jeep track to Sinseri, a quiet village. The ethnicity of the people changes as we descend from Tamangs in the hills to Thakuris , Chhetris to valley bottom Newari farmers. A short distance beyond Sisneri is our pickup point for the drive back to Kathmandu. The afternoon will be spent on packing bikes and gear for your return flight. This evening’s hotel accommodation is at Hotel Norbulinkha in the heart of the city. A farewell bash will beheld at the hotel.
Day 08: Transfer to Kathmandu Airport/Departure
Two hours prior to departure time you will be transferred to Kathmandu International Airport.
TOUR COST PER PERSON
| No of people | 4 | 8 | 12 | 16 |
| US$ per person | 1450 | 1425 | 1400 | 1350 |
COST INCLUDES
• All Entrance fee to national parks, heritage sites, etc.
• Support vehicle
• Biking Guide with mechanical backup
• Food & Accommodation on twin sharing and full board basis during biking
• Bed and breakfast in Kathmandu
• Mineral water
COST EXCLUDES
• Mountain bike and accessories
• Insurance
• Emergency evacuation fees
• Soft and Hard drinks
• Any items of personal interests
Duration: 9 Days
Best Season: January-May, September-December
Altitude Range: 2250m
Difficulty: Strenuous
Group Size: Min. 2
Average Daily Distance: approx. 40km
Support: Support vehicle, Guide-cum-Mechanic
BRIEF ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrival and transfer to your hotel in Thamel.
Day 02: Approx. 9 am we ride out of Kathmandu from our hotel, though the back streets of Thamel.
Day 03: Head off on one of the best single tracks in the valley (which was used as the Mountain Bike Championship course) up towards Budhanilkantha.
Day 04: Continuing on our way we ride on a mixture of jeep trail & single track through the Shivapuri Forest Reserve.
Day 05: We ride down from Chisapani into the NE corner of the KTM valley, then it’s on to a mix of single and jeep track to wind our way to the hill station of Nagarkot.
Day 06: The ‘Retread’ Trails. This is an jeep track descent through terraced paddy fields and small villages that lead us to the Indrawati River.
Day 07: Start with an early morning climb on wide jeep trail to the temple of Namo Buddha, rewarded with superb views of Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lhakpa and some Tibetan mountain range.
Day 08: We descend on jeep track to the ancient city of Panauti where Lord Buddha lived as a prince prior to his offerings his own flesh to the hungry tigress.
Day 09: Departure.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrival and transfer to your hotel.
Day 02: Approx. 9 am we ride out of Kathmandu from our hotel, though the back streets of Thamel. Leaving the city behind we arrive at the Nagarjun Forest (the Queen’s Forest) where we head off-road, starting with good wide undulating track before a long 10km climb up through the jungle. Your efforts are rewarded by spectacular views over the valley and a superb single-track and fine trail descent down the backside of the mountain. At the bottom we transfer or for the seriously fit ride the last 22km on the back road up to Kakani. Our campsite, set in a reserve at 2000m, enjoys stunning views of Ganesh and Langtang Himal and the valley of Likhu Khola 1000m below. Ride 55km. Camp at Kakani
Day 03: Head off on one of the best single tracks in the valley (which was used as the Mountain Bike Championship course) down towards Budhanilkantha. Following the valley rim we stay high above Kathmandu and continue on single track down hill and traverse towards Nagi Gompa, a Buddhist Tibetan Nunnery. We camp in or near the grounds giving sufficient time to absorb the rich Tibetan culture and see the evening Puja. Ride 28km. Camp at Nagi Gompa
Day 04: Continuing on our way we ride on a mixture of jeep trail hrough the Shivapuri Reserve. Part of the route is on the Helambu trekking trail. Our final destination is Chisapani (which means cold water in Nepali), which rounds off a challenging day. Again today’s lodge enjoys outstanding views of the Annapurna Himal- this is one of the best outlooks within the valley region. The ride is 30km, with 4×4 vehicle support and a picnic lunch on the way. Ride 33km Tea House at Chisapani
Day 05: We ride down from Chisapani into the NE corner of the KTM valley, then it’s on to a mix of single and jeep track to wind our way to Nagarkot, our route will depend on the condition of the trails. The comfort and peaceful surrounding of hotel on the valley rim reward a short steep climb into Nagarkot. This is part of the biking movie ‘Retread’ was filmed and Everest can be seen from here on a clear day. Ride 25km or 35km. Overnight in Hotel in Nagarkot
Day 06: The ‘Retread’ Trails. This is a jeep track descent through terraced paddy fields and small villages that lead us to the Indrawati River. We will stop to take photos as the Himalayas are right behind us all the way down and also makes offerings at the local temples to help ensure that we remember those technical skills when we need them. After 1000m of downhill a jeep road leads us to the Freedom Highway, the main road to Tibet. We have lunch in a secret spot by the river before the long climb back up to the valley rim. For most this is best done in the support vehicle. Ride 65km. Overnight in Hotel in Dhulikhel
Day 07: Start with an early morning climb on wide jeep trail to the temple of Namo Buddha, rewarded with superb views of Ganesh Himal. The Stupa here is an important Tibetan Pilgrimage site, where the Buddha reputedly fed himself to a hungry tigress! Lunch here is the traditional Dal Bhat or the packed lunch, fortunately not the tigers left-over! From the temple there’s a choice of wide tracks through pictures villages and forests, or some newly discovered single track. We rejoin the wide trails and then a road for the last 8km back to our hotel. Ride 32km. Overnight in Hotel in Dhulikhel
Day 08: We descend on jeep track to the ancient city of Panauti where Lord Buddha lived as a prince prior to his offerings to the hungry tigress. This city is truly lost in time and is rarely visited by tourists. The Indresara Mahadev Temple is the oldest surviving dated temple in Nepal and believed that it was built in 1294 AD. Climbing towards west, we follow a jeep track along the meandering Roshi River. Beyond the town of Madhoban we enter a narrow pristine valley, ascending 300m on a superb single trail to reach the summit of a hill on Kathmandu Valley’s rim. This is probably the oldest route east out of Kathmandu Valley, known as Lakhure Bhanjung. What a grunt! But the views of the Himalayas more than compensate! From here we descend 500m via switch back jeep track to Sinseri, a quiet village. The ethnicity of the people change as we descend from Tamangs in the hills to Thakuris, Chhetris to valley bottom Newari farmers. A short distance beyond Sisneri is our pickup point for the drive back to Kathmandu.
Day 09: Departure.
TOUR COST PER PERSON
| No. Pax | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12+ |
| Cost pp$ | 655 | 645 | 630 | 615 | 600 | 580 | 560 |
COST INCLUDES
COST EXCLUDES
Duration: 11 Days
Best Season: January-May, September-December
Altitude Range: 2250m
Difficulty: Strenuous
Group Size: Min. 4
Average Daily Distance: 40km
Support: Support vehicle, Guide-cum-Mechanic
The Kathmandu valley offers some of Nepal’s best mountain biking. We stay at five out of the six best outlooks for viewing the mighty Himalaya, from Dhaulagiri in the west to Everest in the east, so you will not miss what is arguably the world’s finest mountain scenery. In addition, the valley is also the historic center of Nepal, the place where palaces and temples were built and rebuilt and Nepalese art and culture were developed and refined. A combination of superb dirt trails and some single track connect the abundance of temples, monasteries and palaces making this both an exhilarating and fascinating place to cycle. This is a fun but challenging trip, suitable for those with off-road biking experience, as some trails are technical and there are some long climbs rewarded by even bigger descents.
BRIEF ITINERARY
Day 01: Kathmandu to Kakani
Day 02: Kakani to Budanilkantha
Day 03: Budanilkantha to Nagarkot
Day 04: Nagarkot rest day
Day 05: Nagarkot to Palanchowk
Day 06: Palanchowk to Dhulikhel
Day 07: Dhulikhel to Bhaktapur, Suryavinayak
Day 08: Bhaktapur, Suryavinayak – Godawari
Day 09: Godawari to Kathmandu
Day 10: Sightseeing in Kathmandu
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1: Kathmandu to Kakani
We leave Kathmandu after breakfast through the bustling back streets of Thamel and on to good wide undulating jeep tracks into jungle. Your efforts are rewarded by spectacular mountain views. We travel downhill and then on upwards for the seriously fit ride (22km) up to Kakani. We camp in a reserve at 2,000m to enjoy the stunning views of Ganesh and Langtang Himals and the valley of Likhu Khola 1,000m below.
Day 2: Kakani to Budanilkantha
Head off on one of the best single tracks trails in the valley (which was used as the Mountain Bike Championship course) down towards Budhanilkantha (Sleeping Vishnu) on wide undulating jeep track and single track and pass through the Shivapuri forest to the Buddhanilkantha, a remarkable 5th century statue of the Lord Vishnu, reclining on the coil of the snake king in the middle of small pond. Your efforts are rewarded by spectacular panoramic mountain views of Ganesh and Langtang Himal on the way and moreover by a night at a true resort established in a rural setting with culturally rich and naturally pristine environment whose garden harbors nearly 75 species of birds and 2000 flowering trees and shrubs. 53 km. O/N RESORTwww.kghhotels.com www.ktmgh.com
Altitude: 1600 mts Off Road: 25km Paved road: 5 km Total distance: 30km
Day 3: Budanilkantha to Nagarkot
ToDay we head off along some of the single-tracks in the valley down towards Boudha Nath. Following the valley rim, we take-in views of Kathmandu. We continue on ride to the Sankhu village and we stop here for lunch and explore this ancient town. From here we cycle along a jeep track road to wind our way up with two-hour climb to Nagarkot on the valley rim. The views of the Himalayan mountain range more than compensate this arduous ascent. On a clear Day, even Mount Everest can be seen! We stay in Nagarkot at a guesthouse from where we can enjoy the sunset.
Day 4: Nagarkot – Rest day
ToDay we take time to explore the numerous single-tracks and trails around Nagarkot. You can do two-half-Day rides returning to the guesthouse for lunch or use toDay as a rest Day. Changu Narayan, a culturally rich temple complex not far from Nagarkot is an easy ride. This complex includes one of the oldest Hindu temples in the valley and has intricate statues and stone tablets depicting ancient Hindu folklore. From here you can also enjoy good views over the valley. Stay in Nagarkot.
Day 5: Nagarkot to Palanchowk
We leave Nagarkot along an epic single track, which was used in the bike movie ‘Retread’. We descend through terraced paddy fields and small farming villages to the Indrawati River. We will stop at the local temples to pray for good trails ahead! After 1,000m downhill, a jeep track leads us on to the Freedom Highway, the main road to Tibet. We turn off to Phalanchowk and ascend 9km (there is always support vehicle) on a paved road. Our lodging for the night at ‘Sunkoshi Adventure Retreat’ is superbly located so that you can enjoy 360-degree view of the valley.
Day 6: Palanchowk to Dhulikhel
What goes up must come down! We start the Day with an exceptional off-road descent, this is technical but there is an easier option further west, which merges with the same trail. We cross the main road and continue 20km uphill to Dhulikhel and our lodge for the night. We have lunch here and for those who haven’t had enough rides, there is time in the afternoon to explore the local trails or the well-preserved town.
Day 7: Dhulikhel to Bhaktapur, Suryavinayak
An early morning climb to the temple of Namo Buddha is rewarded by superb views of Ganesh Himal. The stupa here is an important pilgrimage site. Folklore says that Buddha in a previous incarnation gave himself as an offering to a hungry tigress! Lunch! Here you have the opportunity to enjoy traditional Nepali food?Dhal Bhat. We leave the stupa along undulating tracks passing through picturesque villages.
We continue our way uphill to the rim (Lakhure Banjyang) where we can enjoy views across the Kathmandu Valley. Then a steep descent single track takes us to Surya Vinayak and Bhaktapur Guest House.
Day 8: Bhaktapur, Suryavinayak – Godawari
Leaving Lubhu behind we head toward West on a jeep track passing paddy fields along the foot hill of the highest hill Phulchowki in the valley on our way to Vajra Varahi home of the the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Ancient woodland surrounds the temple, protected by the local belief that to cut even one tree would greatly anger the deity. We shall stop in this forest for lunch on a small clearing ideal for a rest and to enjoy the tranquil sanctuary of the ancient forest. The villagers still appease the wrathful Vishnu by weekly sacrifices of chicken, goat, and buffaloes. We over night at the Godawari Resort and if we still have enough energy, we can always visit the Botanical Garden of Godawari.
O/N GODAVARI VILLAGE RESORT www.godavariresort.com.np
Altitude: 1500 mts Bike off Rd.: 40km Bike paved road: 8 km Total distance: 48km
Day 9: Godawari to Kathmandu
We spend time exploring some exciting trails to Bhimdhunga then onto excellent off-road trails close to Kathmandu, a fitting end to an exhilarating 7-Day ride! We return to the hustle and bustle of Thamel on tarmac roads and celebrate our completion of this rewarding trip.
Day 10: Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Points of particular interest include; Durbar Square, location of the former Royal Palace and the Kumari (living goddess), Pashupatinath, which is one of the ten most important Hindu temples in the world and Nepal’s most important Shiva temple. Alternatively there is opportunity for shopping. Two hours prior to departure, you will be transported to Kathmandu International Airport.
COST INCLUDES
COST EXCLUDES
Accommodation: We use reasonable to good quality tourist class hotels or lodges for 7 nights, usually on a twin share basis and normally with attached bathroom. One night is spent in simple local guesthouse, which has only basic facilities with likely cold showers! A further three nights are spent camping, during which all camping equipments including sleeping bags and mats will be supplied. You will need a sheet sleeping bag during the trip which will be issued at the initial briefing though if you prefer you can bring your own. One night is spent in a traditional Farm House Cottage, which has mainly dormitory beds and electricity, though bathroom arrangements are rudimentary.
Food: All meals are included, except those in Kathmandu; where there is ample, allow $8 for a dinner, $6 for a lunch and $3 for a superb breakfast. The payment also includes mineral water during cycling.
Extra Expenses: Other terms not included in the tour price include: items of a personal nature such as laundry, visas to enter Nepal, alcoholic and soft drinks, entry to sights in Kathmandu: the mountain flight over the Himalayas, insurance and bike hire (see below).
Group, Staff & Support: The group size will be between 3 and 14. Experienced bilingual Nepali cycle guides (according to group size) will accompany all groups. Guides are experienced in mechanics and basic first aid. There will also be local drivers to drive the support vehicle.
Transport: All your luggage and personal belongings will be carried by the support vehicles, which are a minibus and a Land Cruiser, though these vary according to the day and depend on the group size. The few transfer sections will be done in the minibus. The 4WD will allow the riders for as much as possible, depending on landslides during the monsoon period. Allowing you to take a lift over certain sections should you feel like a rest.
Biking Conditions: This trip is graded C/D (Challenging/difficult). The routes used on this trip are a mixture of non-technical vehicle width dirt tracks, and technical and non-technical single tracks (normally 0.5-1.5m wide), so suitable off-road experience is required. On some of the tougher sections, there are sometimes easier alternatives though rough, steep or narrow sections are to be expected, sometimes with drop-offs. Altitude is not really a problem on this trip as one never goes above 2500m, though there are some long climbs of 500m+ during the trip (though not as long as the descents) so a good level of fitness is required. Depending on the severity of the monsoon (May-September) some of the tracks may be rougher than expected, particularly in October. Due to the nature of the routes the support vehicle can only follow riders for 50% (less in the case of a bad monsoon) of the time 9-11 days, cycling average 45km/day, 90% off-road. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip, please do not hesitate to call us.
Essential Equipment: Cycling shorts, gloves, helmet, bum bag or small day sack, water bottle and spare inner tube (unless hiring a bike), torch, favorite energy snacks. We recommend energy bar a day for the cycling days.
A full list of clothing and equipment to take will be sent to you on booking but the above are the most important items.
Bike Repairs: The guide will carry basic spare and tools and a first aid kit: a more comprehensive set of tools will be available with the support vehicle. We recommend that you have your bike properly serviced before coming on the trip to make sure that nothing is about to break, as we cannot guarantee having every available parts. Please beware of bringing all/air full suspension bikes as if the rear shock blows there will be nothing we can do about it. Also if you are bringing a disk brake system, you should bring spare parts yourself.
Transporting Your Bikes: We recommend that you get your local bike shop to box your bike for you. Unboxed bikes are much more likely to get scratched or damaged and some airlines refuse to carry them. Please note that while every effort made to look after all bikes, whether hired on privately owned, we cannot guarantee that some small damage such as minor scratching will not occur as a result of the daily loading and unloading of bikes into and out of the support vehicle.
Bike Hire: Hard tail Bikes like GIANT, TREK with 16″ to 22.5″ are available for hire. All bikes are well maintained and are in ready-to-ride conditions. All bikes hired from us are to be paid in US$ in full amount upon arrival. The bike hire cost for the entire tour is US$160, which includes helmet, toolkits (small) and water bottle.
Safety: Please note that helmets and riding gloves must be worn all the time on all our tours. You should be aware that off-road cycling has its dangers and that consequently accidents happen from time to time. Better to be protected than be sorry!
Duration: 10 Days
Best Season: February-April, September to November
Altitude Range: 3710m
Difficulty: Tough
Group Size: Min. 2
Average Daily Distance: 25-30 approx.
Support: Porter, Guide-cum-Mechanic
TRIP GRADE: Tough – Long cycling days and tougher terrain (for both on- and off-road trips) requiring specific experience of more demanding and technical cycling. Vehicle support may be more limited. You should be very confident of your physical condition and bike handling skills.
MUKTINATH: The Goal of the Pilgrims
Muktinath is a pilgrimage centre for Buddhists and Hindus; you will see Tibetan traders as well as Sadhus from the far south of India. The shrines, in a grove of trees, include a Buddhist monastery and the Vishnu temple of Jiwala Mayi. An old temple nearby shelters a spring and natural gas jets, which provides Muktinath’s famous eternal flame. The earth – water – fire combination accounts for Muktinath’s great religious significance. Spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche peak and several other 8000 mts peaks are visible JOMSOM: A modern town is the ‘Thakali’ homeland. Thakali people are of Tibetan origin but have their own language and customs. We fly to Jomsom from Kathmandu and initially we ride through a popular trekking trail, which leads us to many different wonderful villages rich in cultural and architectural point of view. Riding on the rocky wide and small track from Jomsom, we descend slowly to meet the paved road which takes to the beautiful Pokhara city lying on the foothill of Annapurna Mountain Range. Unlike the rest of the Nepalese Himalayas, the Annapurna mountain range does not form the border between Nepal and Tibet.
BRIEF ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu & transfer to hotel in Thamel
Day 02: Fly or take tourist bus to Pokhara
Day 03: Fly to Jomsom, build bike and ride to Kagbeni
Day 04: Kagbeni to Muktinath holy temple
Day 05: Muktinath – Lupra – Marpha
Day 06: Marpha to Tatopani
Day 07: Tato Pani to Sarangkot
Day 08: Sarankot to Pokhara
Day 09: Take a mountain flight or drive to Kathmandu
Day 10: Departure
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu & transfer to hotel in Thamel, a tourist district offering numerous bars, shops and restaurants and an instant taste of Nepali life. In the afternoon we will sort out our bikes and over dinner there will be a tour briefing. O/N Guest House
Altitude: 1350mts
Day 02: Fly or take tourist bus to Pokhara. You have sufficient time to explore the café’s and diners around the lake on reaching Pokhara. O/N Hotel
Altitude: 820mts
Day 03: Fly to Jomsom, build bike and ride to Kag Beni
There are numerous flights that service the Jomsom airstrip early each day before the Kali Gandaki wind picks up by mid morning. To get used with the altitude and the weather condition, we assemble the bikes as soon as we land in Zomsom and ride the relatively flat river trail to Kag Beni, the border – town of the recently forbidden Mustang Kingdom. O/N Guest house
Altitude: 2700 mts Trail: 100% ride able
Day 04: Kag Beni to Muktinath
We begin riding the 1000 mts vertical climb towards Muktinath, which is situated at 3850 mts, hence making it the highest point on this trip. The landscape is extremely dry and desert like. You may come across few trekkers and a bunch of pilgrims, many from India on their way to the holy temple and the eternal flame in Muktinath that burns from a natural gas source. O/N Lodge
Altitude: 3760 mts Trail: 100% ride able
Day 05: Muktinath – Lupra – Marpha
With awesome thrilling views of the Dhaulagiri and several other 8000 mts peaks on our sight we begin our descent. On the way we might pass some yak heards.This route has previously been ridden only once. We ride through Lupra where black magic and human sacrifices (on dead bodies) are a part of the community rituals. We then call the day of on reaching Marpha. A picturesque community known for its apple orchards, (the tree – line in the Himalayas is much higher than in the Alps). O/N Guest house
Altitude: 2670 mts Trail: 70% ride able 30% push/carry
Day 06: Marpha to Tatopani
With a fantastic downhill ahead of us, we begin our descent towards Tato Pani (hot water), which in the local language means hot water. At the end of the ride, you can pamper yourself in the natural hot spring, which is located besides the Kali Gandaki River, hence giving you the time and space to loosen up your muscles and chill to the natural sound of the wilderness. O/N Hotel
Altitude: 1190 mts Trail: 100%ride able
Day 07: Tato Pani to Sarankot
We carry on descending further down towards Beni following the Kali Gandaki River, before finally reaching the Baglung highway. We follow the highway up to Nau Danda and then take the dirt road to Sarankot, which also happens to be the number one viewpoint in Pokhara to enjoy the views of the Himalayas along with the sunrise and sunset. O /N Hotel
Altitude: 1595 mts Trail: 100% ride able
Day 08: Sarankot to Pokhara
Today we ride through a steep and narrow trail to pokhara. Make sure you check your brakes before you start a 90% downhill. Pokhara is the starting or finishing point for some of Nepal’s most popular treks. The lakes with the magnificent Fishtail dominate the mountain ranges. O/N Hotel
Altitude: 820 mts Trail: 100% ride able
Day 09: Take a mountain flight or drive to Kathmandu O/N Guest house
Altitude: 1350 mts
Day 10: Departure
TOUR COST PER PERSON
| No. of people | 4 | 8 | 12 | 14 |
| US$ per person | 1450 | 1425 | 1400 | 1370 |
COST INCLUDES
COST EXCLUDES
Duration: 14 Days
Best Season: February-April, Semptember-December
Altitude Range: 2584m
Difficulty: Moderate
Group Size: Min. 4
Average Daily Distance: 65km
Support: Support vehicle, Guide-cum-mechanic
The Himalayan kingdom of Nepal is one of the world’s most beautiful countries. From the highest point on the earth to the jungle lowlands along the Indian border, there is an incredible variety of scenery, including huge glaciers, alpine pastures, thick uninhabited forests and carefully terraced hillsides.
Highlights of this trip include:
CH = Comfortable Hotels
SH = Standard Hotel
BH = Basic Hotel / Lodge
ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights CH, 8 nights SH
This trip gives you the opportunity to experience Nepal’s diversity in one of the most rewarding ways, by bike. Starting from Kathmandu we head into the Mahabarat mountains where you can experience the best Himalayan views in Nepal, from Dhaulagiri in the west to Everest in the in the East. From here, we bike down into the terai, close to the border of India where you will visit small thatched villages and experience the ancient farming traditions. Once in the terai, we visit the Chitwan National Park, one of Asia’s finest wildlife parks, where you can go on elephant safari in search of rhino and tiger, or take to the river in a dugout canoe. Refreshed from the comforts of our lodge we return to the mountains, cycling towards the mighty panorama of the Annapurna range and the sacred peak of Macchapuchhare (Fish Tail).
Arriving in Pokhara, we have some time to relax by the lake or to experience some trekking before biking the ‘Royal Trek’ and returning to Kathmandu by the scenic mountain flight. The Valley is the historic centre of Nepal, the place where kingdoms rose and fell, palaces and temples were built and rebuilt and Nepalese art and culture were developed and refined. The combination of some superb dirt tracks and more relaxing road sections, and the abundance of temples, monasteries and palaces, makes this both an exhilarating and fascinating place to cycle and indeed to end one of the most varied biking trips you could wish for.
BRIEF ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu in the late afternoon and transfer to our hotel.
Day 02: Kathmandu is such an extraordinary place that it is well worth having time to explore fully, so today is a free day.
Day 03: After a heartfelt breakfast riding towards Surya Binayak and then to Lubhu, known for its handmade cloth.
Day 04: We spend the morning sampling some exciting trails that lead up and across the valley rim to the south and on to the Kulekhani Dam Site.
Day 05: After breakfast in the hotel, we set off for the hike down to visit the nearby monastery before returning to the hotel for lunch.
Day 06: We start off once again following the Mahendra highway, through (Gajiya, Monohari) we arrive at the Lothar bridge (33 km) We then start riding off-road towards Sauraha.
Day 07: Waking up at the hotel is a fantastic experience and today is a free day to enjoy a full range of jungle activities in one of Asia’s premier wildlife parks – Chitwan National Park.
Day 08: After breakfast, we start riding towards Tikauli, entering the Beeshajar Tal and Ramsen site.
Day 09: By bike we retrace our steps from Lumbini to Bhairahawa, through (Ekala, Bharbaliya, Mangalpur, Landihema).
Day 10: In the morning you may wish to make the two-hour trek to the banks of the Kali Gandaki River and the ruins of the vast Ranighat Palace, originally built in 1896.
Day 11: Pokhara is set in a wide valley directly beneath the Annapurna range. If Kathmandu and its valley are the architectural treasure of Nepal, then Pokhara is nature’s equivalent.
Day 12: A combination of hiking and biking today sees us tackle a section of the ‘Royal Trek’, so-named because Prince Charles once covered the route.
Day 13: Today we take one of the most stunning flights in the world: 30 -minutes in a 19 seater Twin Otter or a 45 seater Avro across the huge mountains.
Day 14: Departure
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu in the late afternoon and transfer to our hotel. In the evening, there will be a briefing on the trip. Those not flying with the group from London will join us in the afternoon in Kathmandu. O/N Guest house
Day 02: Kathmandu is such an extraordinary place that it is well worth having time to explore fully, so today is a free day. There is of course the opportunity to get out on your bike for an independent ride around the bustling, mediaeval streets of old Kathmandu, or further field across the countryside to nearby Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur-The biggest out of the three Durbar Squares happens to lie peacefully in Bhaktapur. Lots of history and mind blowing architecture are treasured in the square. Some may prefer to look around on foot. In the evening, the group can get together and compare notes before thinking about the forthcoming trip.Overnight in Hotel
Altitude: 1340
We drive just out of town to avoid heavy traffic. Check all your gears and bike towards Changu Narayan, the ancient temple complex here, which includes the oldest Hindu temple in the valley where in the sixth & seventh centuries, Newari stone masons made cravings of Lord Vishnu. The stone tablet standing on the west side of the temple is said to be the earliest known inscription in Kathmandu Valley. It depicts King Mandev’s military conquests in the fifth century. It’s on the way and enjoys commanding views over the valley and its fine statues are the best outside the National Museum. From here ride down to Bhaktapur is an ancient city, full of Newari culture. There are many temples and squares here that we will have time to explore. Overnight in Hotel
Day 03: After a heartfelt breakfast riding towards Surya Binayak and then to Lubhu, known for its handmade cloth. Leaving Lubhu behind we head toward West on a jeep track passing paddy fields along the foot hill of the highest hill Phulchowki in the Valley on our way to Vajra Varahi home of the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Ancient woodland surrounds the temple, protected by the local belief that to cut even one tree would greatly anger the deity. We shall stop in this forest for some refreshments on a small clearing ideal for a rest and to enjoy the tranquil sanctuary of the ancient forest. The villagers still appease the wrathful Vishnu by weekly sacrifices of chicken, goat, and buffaloes. We spend the night at the Godawari Resort and if we still have enough energy, we can always visit the Botanical Garden of Godawari. Overnight in Resort
Altitude: 1400 mts (accommodation resort) Drive: Drive out of the Kathmandu to avoid heavy traffic (approx 6 km) Bike 9 km: Begin riding on broken tarmac road after crossing Bhaktapur town. Bike 30 km: off rd. Total Distance: 45 km (Kathmandu to Godavari Resort)
Day 04: We spend the morning sampling some exciting trails that lead up and across the valley rim to the south and on to the Kulekhani Dam Site (completed in 1982 Nepal’s first major hydroelectric project). In between the trails we ride through pine forests and many small villages (Hudu, Hunanae Bhanjyang, Fakhel and Kalanki) before reaching Markhu. A picturesque lake provides the perfect background for a lunch stop. We then carry on riding towards Daman riding on the Tribhuvan highway through, (Taukhel, Bajra Barahi, Thana bazaar). Anyone fancying an introduction to Himalayan hill climbing (14km) can spin all the way up. The hotel enjoys a spectacular mountainside location, arguably offering the most spectacular outlook on the Himalaya in all Nepal. On a clear day one can see all the way from Everest in the east to Dhaulagiri in the west. Daman also happens to be the highest point in the valley. Overnight in Hotel.
Altitude: 2325 mts Distance: 65 km
Day 05: After breakfast in the hotel, we set off for the hike down to visit the nearby monastery before returning to the hotel for lunch. With our appetites satisfied, we saddle up for the exciting ride down to Hetauda in the terai, the lowland area of Nepal. The road sweeps us down towards the plains of Northern India offering 1,500m of downhill over 52 km, we need to be a little cautious and careful on the way because the roads have very sharp turns and lots of bends. As far as the views are concerned, you would not be disappointed. We start off through Rhododendrons (national flower) pine forests and orchids can also be seen depending on the time of the year, as we descent further down riding pass (Sim Bhanjyang, Agor, Chaukhel, Bhaisidoban) to the lowlands a lot of crop farming takes place around this area. We continue riding towards Hetauda through the Mahendra highway. (Hetauda)The area is well known for its factories and concrete bazaars. The surroun
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