OVERVIEW
Embark on an exhilarating cycling journey through the breathtaking high hills of the Kathmandu Valley with the Kathmandu Cycling Rim Ride. This unique tour promises a perfect blend of adventure, cultural exploration, and stunning natural beauty as you pedal your way through the enchanting landscapes surrounding the bustling capital of Nepal.
Duration and Route:
The Kathmandu Cycling Rim Ride typically spans several days, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in the diverse terrain and rich cultural experiences along the way. The route covers a circular path around the Kathmandu Valley, passing through high hills, traditional villages, and ancient temples.
Scenic Landscapes:
As you navigate the high hills, be prepared to witness awe-inspiring panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including iconic mountains like Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Dorje Lakpa. The route takes cyclists through lush forests, terraced fields, and charming rural settlements, providing a unique perspective of Nepal’s diverse landscapes.
Cultural Encounters:
One of the highlights of the Kathmandu Cycling Rim Ride is the opportunity to interact with local communities and experience their rich cultural heritage. Cyclists will have the chance to explore ancient temples, monasteries, and traditional Newari villages, gaining insights into the customs, traditions, and daily life of the people living in the Kathmandu Valley.
Challenging Terrain:
While the route is designed to showcase the scenic beauty of the region, participants should be prepared for some challenging ascents and descents. The high hills present a mix of dirt trails, narrow pathways, and paved roads, offering a variety of cycling experiences for both novice and experienced riders.
Local Cuisine and Hospitality:
Throughout the journey, cyclists will have the opportunity to savor delicious local cuisine, prepared with fresh and organic ingredients. The warm hospitality of the locals adds a special touch to the overall experience, making this cycling tour not just a physical adventure but also a cultural and culinary delight.
Logistics and Support:
Organized tours of the Kathmandu Cycling Rim Ride typically provide logistical support, including experienced guides, accommodation, and meals. Support vehicles may also be available to assist with any unforeseen challenges, ensuring a safe and enjoyable cycling experience for all participants.
In conclusion, the Kathmandu Cycling Rim Ride offers an unforgettable adventure, combining the thrill of cycling with the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Kathmandu Valley. Whether you’re an avid cyclist seeking a new challenge or a culture enthusiast yearning for an immersive experience, this tour promises to be a remarkable journey through the heart of Nepal.
Leave Kathmandu after breakfast through the bustling back streets of Thamel. On a good wide undulating jeep track and single track, pass through the Queen 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 Himals 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. 53km O/N Resort.
Start with a steep upward ride (approx 7 km) on broken paved and off road through the Shivapuri National Park Reserve. Part of the route is on the popular Helambu trekking trail. Our destination is up to Chisopani (which means cold water in Nepali), which rounds off a challenging day. Again today’s lodge enjoys outstanding and closest views of the panoramic mountain ranges- this is one of the best outlooks within the valley region. 40 km O/N Chisopani O/N Lodge
We climb approxmately 9 kms upto 2250m (highest point of our trip) then ride down into the North-East 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. A short steep climb into Nagarkot is rewarded by the comfort and peaceful surrounding of hotel on the valley rim. Part of the biking movie ‘Retreat’ was filmed on this trial. Ride 25km or 35km. O/N Hotel
Enjoy the spectacular sunrise views from the terrace. Today we explore the trails around Nagarkot or you can take a rest day. There are numerous off-road routes possible today either road or wide dirt and single track. We have a choice of day rides ending at the medieval town of Bhaktapur for lunch then time to look around before we drive back up the hill to Nagarkot or ride up the road if you wish. Bhaktapur is an old restored city full of temples and courtyards. Also it is possible to visit Changu Narayan, a must for those interested in culture – 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. O/N Hote
: The ‘Retread’ Trails. This is an epic single 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 make 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 Friendship 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. We have the choice to continue the ride on the paved road of Friendship highway or off road. Or drive back to Kathmandu.