Best Cycling Trails in Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu Valley isn’t just Nepal’s cultural heartland; it’s also a cyclist’s dream. With ancient temples, terraced hillsides, and Himalayan backdrops, the valley offers diverse Cycling Trails in Kathmandu valley, perfect for half-day jaunts or multi-day epics.

Nepal is one of the ideal destinations for mountain bikers and cycling enthusiasts in the world. With diverse landscapes, from rugged mountain trails to lush valleys and cultural heritage sites, Kathmandu Valley offers some of the world’s most exhilarating biking experiences.

Cycling trails in Nepal offer a mix of challenges and rewards. While Kathmandu is known for its busy roads, narrow alleys, and steep inclines, it also boasts a wealth of cultural sites and picturesque routes that make the journey worthwhile.

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, these 8 best cycling trails around Kathmandu Valley promise unforgettable adventures. This blog provides insight into the best cycling trails, must-ride routes, difficulty levels, and essential tips in Kathmandu Valley.

8 Best Cycling Trails Around Kathmandu Valley

 1. Kathmandu Valley Rim Trail

The Kathmandu valley provides excellent cultural and scenic rides in the villages, hills, and farms. The panoramic views of the Himalayas in the north are the best part of the Kathmandu valley rim. One can explore the ancient temples, stupas, and Newari villages within the rim around the Kathmandu Valley. One of the popular cycling trails in Kathmandu is a mix of off-road trails and paved roads.

The route starts at Swayambhu Nath (Monkey Temple), rides through Chandragiri Hills, passes by Kirtipur and Pharping, and ends at the Boudhanath Stupa. This is a delightful world of slopes, lush forests, villages, and a glimpse of the Makalu and Annapurna range in the North.

Annapurna Region

This moderately challenging cycling trail offers a scenic ride through panoramic spots like Nagarkot and Chisapani, passes through Shivapuri National Park, and includes visits to cultural landmarks such as the historic Changunarayan Temple and the renowned Namobuddha Monastery. It also connects the three major cities of Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur.

2. Nagarkot to Bhaktapur Downhill

This cycling trail is best known for the sunrise view at Nagarkot and a cultural heritage tour to Bhaktapur.  About 35m long, this trail is one of the easiest and most popular cycling Trails in Kathmandu valley.

This trail starts early from the sunrise at Nagarkot and rides down through the forest to Nagarkot. After lunch, explore the ancient palaces of Bhaktapur Durbar Square. On your way, try Bhaktapur’s famous juju dhau (king curd).

Explore the Golden Gate and the statue of King Bhupatindra Malla at the Durbar Square, and the famous Nyatapola at the Taumadhi Square. Come to the pottery square and observe the traditional craft of pottery made by the Newar of Bhaktapur.

The Nagarkot -Bhaktapur Downhill cycling trail is perfect for the Sunrise & Heritage Combo, with a length of 35km. The spring (March–May) and Autumn (Sept–Nov) are the best seasons with clear skies and stable weather. Check out our Kathmandu-Nagarkot Tour package.

3. Mudkhu-Tokha Trail

This trail can be a perfect option for beginners, very close to Kathmandu city. The trail takes you to the Mudhku village of Tarakeshwor municipality. This is a short ride for 3 to 4 hours only to complete and come back to your hotel in Thamel.

4. Jamacho Route

In between Mudkhu and Thamel, this is an off the beat cycling route to the Jamacho temple within the boundary of Shivapuru National Park.  This is a moderately difficult cycling trails in Kathmandu as you need to ascend to the top of the Nagarjun hill.  This 21-km-long cycling trail takes about 5-6 hours and offers you the top viewpoint and some amazing views of the Kathmandu valley.

5. Phulchowki Route

Phulchowki trail takes you on a ride to one of the highest points in Kathmandu at 2600 m. The trails run down through forests and farms with a few jumps at the top of the hill. The amazing downhill ride is becoming a popular destination for mountain biking in Kathmandu.

6. Budhanilkantha-Kapan Trail

The Budhanilkantha-Kapan Trail is one of the technical cycling trails in Kathmandu that takes about 6 hours to complete that starting from Kathmandu. The trail leads you to Budhanilkantha temple in the north of the valley and along the hill to Kapan. The trails pass through the Buddhist monasteries, the Nagi Gumba and the Kapan Monastery. After completing the cycling at Kapan, you return to Kathmandu to your Hotel. At some point, you enter the buffer zone of the Shivapuri National Park and take photographs of nature.

7. Lakuri Bhanjyang

This 30 km intermediate-level cycling trail begins in Patan and leads to Lakuri Bhanjyang via Sundhara and Lubhu. After a brief ride through the busy Lubhu town, the route shifts to a rugged jeep track, followed by a challenging uphill ascent.

At the top, enjoy breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley and mountains. The descent winds through the scenic Bebar Khola valley, home to Tamang, Newar, and Chhetri communities, finally reaching Panauti. You can return to Patan via a smooth road or extend your ride toward Dhulikhel or Namobuddha.

8. Chobar to Champadevi

Situated 6 km south of Kathmandu, there lies Chobhar gorge and Jal Vinayak temple on the bank of the Bagmati River. From the iconic Chobhar gorge, follow the unpaved road to the right and reach Bansbari.

From there, you can hike or cycle through the forest and reach Champa Devi at the top of the hill. From the Champa Devi, you can observe the view of the entire Kathmandu valley including This is an ideal place to view the whole Kathmandu Valley.

Everest Base Camp Trek

Essential Tips for Cycling in Kathmandu Valley

Information on Seasonal Changes

The Best Seasons to cycle around the Kathmandu valley are the post-monsoon season (October to November) and spring of March–April. It’s good to avoid the rainy monsoon in (Jun–Sep) as it would be difficult due to the muddy trails.

Understand the Terrain and Know Your Bike

Familiarize yourself with the type of terrain you’ll be cycling on. Whether it’s rugged trails, steep climbs, or paved roads, learn about the road and its physical condition. Choose a bike that suits the route and ensures it’s well-maintained. Knowing your bike’s features like gear range, suspension, and tire grip- will significantly improve your control and comfort during the ride.

Bring the Right Bike for the Ride

Select a bike that matches the trail conditions. If you want to bring your bike, that’s a fantastic idea, but be sure to bring a bike suitable for the terrain you intend to traverse. For off-road trails with rough and hilly terrain, a mountain bike with good suspension is ideal.

For smoother, paved routes, a hybrid or road bike works better. Having the right bike ensures safety, efficiency, and a more enjoyable cycling experience.

Carry Basic Tools

If you are bringing your cycle to Nepal, be sure to bring the necessary tools to fix it. Your basic repair kit must include a repair kit, a pump, a spoke key, and an Allen key. It also must include a bleeder kit, housing wire, chain links, tubes, and a derailleur.  Additionally, do not forget to carry some water and some energy bars with you.

If Possible, Ride in a Group

Cycling alone is good for the adrenaline. However, some of the cycling trails in Kathmandu may not be safer to ride alone. Riding in a group with other riders gives you more fun and safety. You can also share the tools and repair them with your group members.

cycling trails in Kathmandu

Learn Some Basic Survival Skills

Throughout the journey, you are the master of your bicycle. It is advised to know some skills to avoid difficulties and technical issues on your journey. Learn some basic skills such as:

1. Changing the tubes and tires
2. Resolve the patching of punctures.
3. Adjust the derailleur and gear system whenever required.
4. Fixing knots and changing the brake pads.
5. Connecting the broken chain with or without a chain link.

Get the Unique Experience of the Outskirts

Exploring the cycling trails in Nepal, especially around the vibrant Kathmandu Valley, offers an unforgettable mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

From scenic mountain views to historical landmarks and rural villages, the Cycling Trails in Kathmandu cater to both beginners and seasoned riders. Whether you’re seeking thrilling ascents or peaceful countryside rides, Nepal is a hidden gem for every cycling enthusiast.

Awesome Holidays Nepal provides expert support and custom cycling tours tailored to your interests and skill level. Gear up, hit the trail, and discover a whole new side of the incredible beauty of Nepal on two wheels.

Get ready to ride and one pedal at a time!