Kathmandu Valley Biking Tour
●●●●● 4.9 · 60+ TripAdvisor reviewsCycle the complete Kathmandu Valley circuit through UNESCO heritage sites, forest trails, and hilltop viewpoints with bikes and all meals included
On The Trail
What It Really Looks Like
Kathmandu Valley Biking Tour: What to Expect
Sunrise views across eight Himalayan ranges from Nepal's most famous hill station
Premium mountain bikes and all meals on cycling days included in the price
Patan Durbar Square, Namo Buddha, Shivapuri National Park in one connected loop
Kathmandu-based guide with deep knowledge of every trail, village, and heritage site
The Kathmandu Valley Biking Tour is a 9-day circuit around the rim of the Kathmandu Valley on mixed forest trails, ridge roads, and village tracks. The route climbs from Kathmandu to Kakani on Day 2, follows the northern rim through Shivapuri National Park to Chisapani and Nagarkot, descends to Dhulikhel, detours to Namo Buddha and Godavari, and returns through Patan before a rest day in Kathmandu. The full circuit covers approximately 150km over six riding days.
Daily riding is 3 to 6 hours at distances of 20 to 35km. The steepest day is the 745m climb to Kakani on Day 2. The rest of the route is rolling terrain with no extended technical sections. No prior mountain biking experience is required. A basic level of fitness and the ability to handle a mountain bike on forest trails is enough. This trip is rated moderate.
Premium mountain bikes are included in the package price. Your guide handles all entrance fees, permits for Shivapuri National Park, and heritage site access. All meals are included on cycling days. Kumar answers personally if you have questions before booking.
For riders who want to extend beyond the valley see our Nepal Cross-Country Biking Adventure which starts from Kathmandu and rides all the way to Muktinath in 13 days.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Kathmandu
A MountainKick representative meets you at the airport and transfers you to your hotel in Thamel. Your guide runs a pre-trip briefing covering the full 9-day valley circuit, daily distances, and heritage site highlights. Bike fitting and equipment checks are done this evening so you are ready to ride first thing tomorrow morning
Ride to Kakani
The hardest climbing day of the circuit leaves Thamel through Balaju and climbs steadily northwest through terraced farmland and pine forest to Kakani ridge at 2,145m. The effort is rewarded with a wide panorama of the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges including Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, and Ganesh Himal on a clear day. The descent into the valley below Kakani is steep and fun
Ride to Chisapani via Shivapuri National Park
The trail enters Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park on narrow forest singletrack through dense pine and oak forest on the northern rim of the valley. Wildlife sightings including deer and various Himalayan bird species are common on this section. Chisapani sits on an open ridge at 2,165m with unobstructed views of the Langtang range to the north and the Kathmandu Valley spread out to the south
Ride to Nagarkot
The trail descends from Chisapani through Sundarijal, the main water source for Kathmandu, before climbing through terraced farmland and forest to the Nagarkot ridge. Nagarkot at 2,175m is the most celebrated viewpoint in the Kathmandu Valley with a panorama that extends from Dhaulagiri in the west to Kanchenjunga in the east on a clear morning. Set the alarm for sunrise
Ride to Dhulikhel
A predominantly descending day from Nagarkot ridge through the ancient Newari town of Nala with its four-tiered Bhagwati Temple before dropping to Banepa and climbing gently to Dhulikhel. The old town section of Dhulikhel is one of the best-preserved Newari settlements in the valley with traditional brick architecture, wood-carved windows, and courtyard temples dating back several centuries
Ride to Namo Buddha and Godavari
The trail climbs from Dhulikhel to Namo Buddha, one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Nepal where the Bodhisattva is said to have offered his body to a starving tigress. The Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery complex on the hilltop is worth extended time before the descent through terraced farmland to Godavari at the southern rim of the valley
Ride to Patan via Godavari Botanical Garden
The final riding day passes through the Godavari Botanical Garden and the sacred Pharping valley, home to some of the most important Buddhist and Hindu shrines in the Kathmandu Valley including the Asura Cave meditation site associated with Guru Padmasambhava. The trail descends to Patan, the most architecturally complete of the three Kathmandu Valley kingdoms with a Durbar Square UNESCO has called among the finest in Asia
Kathmandu Leisure Day and Farewell Dinner
A free day to explore Kathmandu at your own pace. Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Thamel’s markets are all within easy reach. Your guide is available for recommendations but the day is unstructured. Farewell dinner in the evening with traditional Nepali food and cultural performances marks the completion of the valley circuit
Final Departure
Private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport timed to your flight. Your guide sees you off at departures
Includes & Excludes
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Airport and hotel transfers Private vehicle, both directions
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3-star hotel in Kathmandu, 1 night Twin-sharing, Days 1 and 8
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Guesthouse accommodation on route Twin-sharing, Kakani, Chisapani, Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, Godavari, and Patan
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All meals on riding days Every breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Days 2 to 7
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Premium mountain bikes uality full-suspension mountain bikes included for all riding days. Helmet included.
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Shivapuri National Park entrance fee Arranged by MountainKick before the Day 3 trail section
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Heritage site entrance fees Namo Buddha, Patan Durbar Square, and all cultural sites on the circuit
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Government-licensed mountain biking guide English speaking, full trip from arrival to departure
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All government taxes and fees Nothing added after booking
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International flights To and from Kathmandu
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Nepal visa $30 / $50 / $125 on arrival at Kathmandu airport
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Travel insurance Must cover cycling on mixed terrain and emergency medical evacuation
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Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara Breakfast only at hotel on Days 1 and 8. Farewell dinner included on Day 8.
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Personal drinks, snacks, and alcohol Throughout the circuit
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Tips for guide, porters, and support staff 10 to 15% of trip cost is standard across Nepal
Enhance Your Trek
We Handle the Details
FreeWhere You'll Sleep & What You'll Eat
In Kathmandu you stay in a 3-star hotel in Thamel on twin-sharing basis with breakfast included on Days 1 and 8. Rooms have private bathrooms, hot water, and Wi-Fi. On the circuit from Kakani to Patan you stay in clean local guesthouses with basic twin rooms and private or shared bathrooms. All guesthouses are selected for cleanliness, location, and mountain views where available. Kakani and Chisapani have simple but comfortable facilities. Nagarkot has the widest range of guesthouse options on the circuit and is the most comfortable overnight stop outside Kathmandu. Dhulikhel and Godavari have standard guesthouse facilities. Patan on the final riding night is the most characterful stop with accommodation in or near the old town. Hot showers and Wi-Fi are available at most guesthouses for a small extra charge. Single supplement is available on request throughout.
All meals are included on riding days from Day 2 to Day 7. In Kathmandu breakfast is included at the hotel on Days 1 and 8. The farewell dinner on Day 8 is included. Guesthouses on the circuit serve dal bhat, noodle soups, fried rice, eggs, pasta, and local Newari dishes at some stops. Food quality and variety is better on this circuit than on high-altitude treks as supply chains are easier at valley altitude. Vegetarian options are available throughout. Budget for personal drinks, snacks, and any extras outside the included meals.
| Personal drinks and snacks | $5 to $15 per day |
What Our Trekkers Say
“I’m already planning for the trip AGAIN and you would know which company I’d choose AGAIN…”
Finally, I had the opportunity to meander across the splendor of the Himalayas. My first concern after researching everything there was to know about Nepal was my safety and my child’s welfare. But upon our arrival at the airport, I found out that Kathmandu is one of the meanest places…
“MountainKick is haven for trekkers and one cannot afford to miss it if you are interested in trekking in Nepal.”
To whoever reading this and wondering about the legitimacy of this company, they are for real. The team is genuinely dedicated to making your trekking memorable and rewarding. Such is the professionalism of the company that they went steps further to assist us that included the tracking down of the…
“We liked the concern of this company for its staffs and the environmental awareness and it has.”
There was always a response from Jagat as we had so many things to ask. We had insisted on having a Nepali guide instead of a westerner because we had to make sure the money we spend actually goes to Nepali people. We chose this company because we had heard…
“We had the trip of our lifetime”
We had the trip of our lifetime thanks to the warm hospitality bestowed upon us and the beauty of such amazing country. From well-organized trips, exotic locations, cultural sightseeing to the thrill of safari, “soft” trekking to Poon Hill, everything was memorable. Our trekking guide was Shiva, apparently named after…
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time of year for this trip?
October to May. Autumn from October to November gives the clearest mountain views and the most stable weather. Winter from December to February is cool and dry with excellent visibility, and the low altitude makes it perfectly comfortable for riding. Spring from March to May brings rhododendron bloom on the Shivapuri National Park sections. Monsoon from June to September makes forest trails muddy and slippery and blocks mountain views for most of the day.
Is altitude sickness a concern on this trip?
No. The maximum altitude on this circuit is 2,175m at Nagarkot, well below the threshold where altitude sickness typically occurs. Most healthy adults can ride to this elevation without any preparation or medication. If you have a specific medical condition that affects you at altitude, consult your doctor before booking.
What heritage sites does the circuit cover?
The circuit passes through or near Kakani viewpoint, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, Chisapani ridge, Nagarkot sunrise point, the ancient Newari town of Nala, Dhulikhel old town, Namo Buddha pilgrimage site, Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery, Godavari Botanical Garden, Pharping shrines, and Patan Durbar Square. Entrance fees for all included sites are covered in the package price. The free day in Kathmandu on Day 8 gives time for Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and Pashupatinath.
Is there a support vehicle?
No. This is a Kathmandu Valley circuit and all overnight luggage is transferred between guesthouses by taxi or local transport while you ride. Your guide carries a basic bike repair kit throughout the circuit. If you need to skip a section for any reason a taxi can be arranged quickly as all points on the circuit are within Kathmandu Valley road access.
What happens if it rains?
Light rain is manageable and the circuit continues as planned. Heavy rain makes the Shivapuri forest trail section on Day 3 and the Nagarkot descent on Day 5 significantly more challenging and slippery. Your guide monitors conditions and can adjust the route or timing if needed. A lightweight waterproof jacket is an essential item to pack regardless of forecast.
Can I combine this trip with trekking?
Yes. The Kathmandu Valley Biking Tour works well as a standalone trip or as a warm-up before a longer Nepal adventure. Many riders combine it with the Langtang Valley Trek or use it as a post-trek activity after the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Contact us to discuss combining trips in a single Nepal itinerary.
How does this compare to the Nepal Cross-Country Biking Adventure?
The Nepal Cross-Country Biking Adventure covers 550km from Kathmandu to Muktinath in 13 days with a full support vehicle and visits Chitwan National Park and Pokhara along the way. It is a significantly more demanding and longer trip rated challenging. The Kathmandu Valley circuit is the right choice for riders who want a concentrated cultural and scenic biking experience without committing to a two-week cross-country expedition.
What travel insurance do I need?
Travel and medical insurance is mandatory for all participants. Your policy must cover cycling on mixed terrain and emergency medical evacuation. The maximum altitude is 2,175m so standard travel insurance usually covers this trip. Confirm that cycling activities are explicitly included in your policy before purchasing. We will ask for proof of insurance before departure.
Departure Dates & Pricing
No upcoming fixed departures are scheduled at the moment. Contact us to arrange a private departure on dates that suit you.
Your dates, your group, your way
Same route and guides, just your group. Tell us when you'd like to go and how many of you there are, and we'll send you a day by day plan with a price.
- Nothing to pay now
- Plan and price by email
- Confirm with a 20% deposit
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20% deposit: due on booking Secures your place on the departure. The deposit is non-refundable. We also need a copy of your passport.
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80% balance: due on arrival Pay the rest in Kathmandu before the trip starts. Bank transfer, cash, or card (4% card fee).
| Cancel before you arrive | Deposit not refunded, nothing more to pay |
| Cancel after the pre-trip meeting | No refund |
| Date or name change | USD 200 per person |
| MountainKick cancels trip | Full refund or reschedule |
Weather delays and extra days cost extra, so travel insurance is required. We give you documents for any claim.
Read the full terms and conditionsPacking List
Bike and Riding Gear
ⓘ Bikes and helmets are included in the package price. Bring your own if you prefer — let us know in advance. Your guide carries a basic repair kit throughout the circuit.
Clothing and Layers
ⓘ Temperature at 2,175m can drop to 5 to 10°C at night in winter. One warm layer is enough for evenings. Descents from Nagarkot can feel cold so keep a jacket accessible in your daypack.
Footwear
ⓘ One footwear system is sufficient. Bike shoes for riding, sandals or trail shoes for evenings and heritage site visits.
Head and Hands
ⓘ Warm gloves and a beanie are only needed for mornings above 2,000m. The rest of the circuit is warm enough with liner gloves and a cycling cap.
Gear and Equipment
ⓘ Your luggage travels by taxi between guesthouses while you ride. Keep your daypack under 5kg for all riding days.
Health and Hydration
ⓘ Your guide carries a basic first aid kit. This is a low-altitude circuit so the kit is minimal. Blister treatment and sunscreen are the most commonly needed items.
Toiletries
ⓘ Hot showers are available at most guesthouses below Manang for a small extra charge. Above Manang and at Tilicho Base Camp expect limited or no shower facilities.
Documents and Money
ⓘ ATMs are available at all stops on this circuit including Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, and Patan. No cash withdrawal concerns on this trip.
Trekking in Monsoon (Jun to Aug)
⚠ We do not recommend this trip during monsoon from June to September. Shivapuri National Park forest trails become muddy and slippery and mountain views from Kakani, Nagarkot, and Dhulikhel are blocked by cloud for most of the day. October to May gives the best riding conditions and clearest Himalayan panoramas.
Leave at home
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Cotton clothing Absorbs sweat and stays wet. Dangerous at altitude when temperatures drop rapidly
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Laptop No need and adds serious weight to the support vehicle. Use a phone or tablet instead
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Valuables and jewellery No safe storage at high altitude guesthouses. Leave anything irreplaceable in Kathmandu
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Full-size toiletries Decant into small bottles. Space in the support vehicle is shared across the group
Bikes and helmets are included in the package price. If you prefer to ride your own bike let us know in advance. Basic repair tools and spare tubes are carried by your guide throughout the circuit. Most cycling accessories including gloves, padded shorts, and cycling jerseys are available in Thamel before departure.
Kathmandu Valley Biking Tour
Talk to Kumar and the team before you commit. Ask about gear, fitness, altitude or a private group.
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