Nepal’s strategic location along the towering peaks of the majestic Himalayas makes it one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world. Known as the land of stupas, adventure, natural beauty, breathtaking landscapes, yaks, yetis, and towering mountains, Nepal never fails to captivate with its vibrant culture, charming villages, scenic hikes, ancient traditions, and warm-hearted people.
For adventure seekers, Nepal is undoubtedly one of the best destinations on the planet. Among the many thrilling experiences it offers, mountain biking stands out as one of the most exciting ways to explore the country. After all, cycling through the deep valleys nestled at the base of the world’s tallest peaks is no small feat. In this article, Bookmundi highlights the top mountain biking tours in Nepal.
Mountain Biking the Annapurna Circuit – Advanced Course
The Annapurna Circuit has long been a dream for trekkers worldwide. Known as one of the most iconic trekking routes on the planet, it also features incredible mountain biking and jeep trails. The Annapurna Circuit offers a perfect blend of classic trekking experiences and thrilling mountain biking routes. If you’re eager to enjoy both activities, consider hiking up to Muktinath along the Marshyangdi River, then transitioning to mountain biking to explore the stunning trails of the Annapurna Circuit.
Mountain Bike Upper Mustang – Advanced Course
Upper Mustang isn’t just about enjoying a challenging bike journey through the mountains. It’s about discovering nature at its beautiful best, it’s about understanding yourself, it’s about meeting new people and also about coming close to new cultures. Upper Mustang is where nomads herd yaks, rosy-cheeked locals have their own stories to tell, the Tibetan culture remains untouched by civilization and modernization and ponies carry your luggage. This advanced mountain biking course also presents some of the most challenging biking terrains, which means that it is always a favorite among adventure lovers. The highlight of your adventure is Lo-Manthang, a beautiful destination visited by only a handful of travelers each year. This 15th century town is home to an ancient Tibetan kingdom that has a recorded history which dates back 700 years! This is one of the last bastions containing untouched Tibetan culture. If you love mountain biking and challenges, mountain biking Upper Mustang is highly recommended.
1 Day Tour Mountain Biking in Sarangkot (near Pokhara)
Explore the peace and quiet that Sarangkot has in store through this exciting mountain biking adventure. As you follow the jeep trail from Pokhara, you’re treated to some of the most beautiful views of Annapurna with para gliders floating meters above you. You would also do well to check out the breathtaking views of the Phewa Lake and Pokhara city. And as you start coming to your senses, you’re forced to make another life-changing decision – riding down the DH single-track or the flowing XC trails. Both suit different riding styles and present equally phenomenal vistas and adventures. Tiring as the journey may be, make sure that before you’re ready to call it a day, you stop by traditional Nepali farmlands and explore the beautiful countryside.
1 Day Mountain Bike tour in Kathmandu Valley
The Kathmandu Valley is an exciting option for a day tour, irrespective of how skilled you are at riding. From single track adventures in national parks to leisurely afternoon strolls around the countryside, the place has everything that you would possibly need for the most epic bike adventure of your life. Biking in the Kathmandu Valley takes you to a height of 2200 meters and presents some of the most beautiful panoramas that you can possibly imagine. The most fascinating trails in the area include Mudkhu to Tolkha, Balaju to Mudkhu to Tolkha to Budhanilkhanta, Jamacho and Mudhku Single Track trails and Kathmandu to Kakani to Budhanilkhanta. If things like cross-country adventures, beautiful cultures, natural beauty, exhilarating bike rides, ancient villages and national parks excite you, the Kathmandu Valley has everything you can possibly imagine and then some.
1 Day Mountain Bike Tour to Peace Pagoda in Pokhara
A one-day mountain biking tour to the Peace Pagoda is an exciting way to explore the rugged beauty of Nepal. Considered to be one of the best biking adventures in the country, this tour takes you through beautiful villages, terraced rice fields, rolling hills, Himalayan foothills and subtropical forests. The Peace Pagoda is built on a small hilltop located close to the Fewa Lake in Pokhara. It may look incredibly accessible, but it takes a bike ride or a hike to reach the top of the hill. The reason why this tour is so popular among bikers is that the area is very peaceful and the location is picture perfect for mountain biking. Bookmundi recommends you to leave before the sun picks up. The road elevates slowly, making it easy for you to ride uphill. Moreover, the ride isn’t technical in nature so unskilled bikers can also enjoy this tour. Once you reach the Peace Pagoda, enjoy its beautiful architecture and marvel at the breathtaking views on display, before the down-hill ride kicks in!
There are times when the best adventures come from the unlikeliest of pairings. You would always associate Nepal with adventure and thrill, but would often forget all about the spectacular natural beauty that it boasts of. By presenting mountain biking trails in some of the most beautiful areas on the planet, the country simply reminds you of everything that makes it so special and unique. To back each adventure, Nepal also provides a healthy mix of ancient civilizations that are untouched by modernization, a rich culture, beautiful people and incredible journeys. What makes mountain biking tours in Nepal so unique? It’s just that those wanting to enjoy real journeys and real experiences won’t find anything else like the ones found here.