Kathmandu-valley-biking

Kathmandu Valley Biking Tour

  • duration 9 days
  • from usd 2,090
  • difficulty Challenging
  • best season Jan-Jun | Sep-Dec
  • max altitude From 4,390 feet at Kathmandu to 7,136 feet at Nagarkot

trip overview

Experience Nepal’s premier cultural cycling adventure as you circumnavigate the historic Kathmandu Valley, completing a spectacular circuit through UNESCO World Heritage sites and ancient hill stations. This 9-day journey takes you around the entire valley rim, from the sunrise viewpoints of Nagarkot to the sacred Buddhist sites of Namo Buddha, offering the perfect blend of cultural immersion and scenic mountain cycling.

Cycle through pristine national parks, medieval trading towns, and traditional villages while visiting iconic sites like Patan Durbar Square and the legendary Swayambhunath Stupa. This unique valley circuit combines easy cycling with profound cultural discovery, allowing you to experience authentic local life while completing an epic circumnavigation that few travelers ever achieve.

The tour culminates with the satisfying achievement of having cycled the complete cultural circuit around Nepal’s most historic valley, returning to Kathmandu with unforgettable memories of ancient temples, Himalayan panoramas, and authentic village encounters.

Key Highlights

Complete the Valley Circuit Circumnavigate the entire Kathmandu Valley, cycling from hill station to hill station in an epic cultural loop that brings you full circle through centuries of history

UNESCO World Heritage Discovery Explore multiple UNESCO sites including the magnificent Patan Durbar Square with its intricate Newari architecture and ancient temples

Himalayan Panorama from Nagarkot Witness spectacular sunrise and sunset views over eight Himalayan ranges from Nepal’s most famous hill station viewpoint

Sacred Sites & Spiritual Journey Visit Namo Buddha, one of Tibet’s most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites, and experience the peaceful monastery atmosphere

Authentic Village Immersion Cycle through traditional Tamang and Sherpa communities, medieval trading towns, and pristine national park wilderness, experiencing genuine local culture unchanged for generations

Detailed itinerary

  • day 01
    Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft)

    Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our experienced team will welcome you and escort you to your hotel in a private vehicle. Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for your upcoming cultural cycling adventure through Nepal’s historic valley. This arrival day provides essential acclimatization time and allows for final equipment checks with our professional guides. Kathmandu, the bustling capital city, serves as your gateway to exploring centuries-old temples, traditional villages, and scenic hill stations that have remained virtually unchanged for generations.

    • Activities: Airport transfer, gear preparation, trip briefing
    • Accommodation: Three-star hotel (twin-sharing basis)
    • Meal: Welcome drink
  • day 02
    Pre-trip Meeting & Ride: Kathmandu to Kakani (2,145m/7,037ft)

    Begin with a comprehensive briefing from Mountain Kick representatives and guides at your hotel, covering the complete itinerary and safety protocols. Start your cycling adventure in Kathmandu, quickly leaving the bustling city to follow an exciting off-road track through the pristine Nagarjun forest. Navigate past traditional farmhouses and authentic villages as you climb steadily uphill to Kakani, a scenic hill station offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan range including Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Ganesh Himal, Mt. Langtang, and Mt. Gaurishankar. The village provides an authentic mountain experience away from urban influences.

    • Distance: 25km | Duration: 4-5 hours | Elevation Gain: 745m
    • Terrain: Mixed road and off-road forest tracks, moderate climbing
    • Highlights: Nagarjun forest exploration, panoramic Himalayan views
    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
    • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • day 03
    Ride: Kakani to Chisapani (2,165m/7,103ft)

    Journey eastward along the northern rim of the valley, following forest trails through Shivapuri National Park. This route showcases diverse ecosystems and provides excellent views across the Kathmandu Valley. Chisapani, meaning cold water,” offers spectacular mountain vistas and serves as a traditional stop on the classic Helambu trekking route. The village provides authentic cultural experiences with local Tamang and Sherpa communities, where you can witness traditional mountain lifestyles that have persisted for centuries. The crisp mountain air and serene environment make this an ideal location for acclimatization and cultural immersion.

    • Distance: 20km | Duration: 4-5 hours | Elevation Gain: 20m
    • Terrain: Forest trails through national park, moderate technical sections
    • Cultural Element: Local community interaction, mountain village life
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • day 04
    Ride: Chisapani to Nagarkot (2,175m/7,136ft)

    Continue along the eastern rim of the valley to reach Nagarkot, located 32 km east of Kathmandu. This famous hill station serves as one of Nepal’s premier locations for experiencing magnificent sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayan range. The route follows ridge-top trails with consistent mountain panoramas, making this one of the most scenic cycling days of the journey. Nagarkot’s strategic position offers unobstructed views of eight Himalayan ranges, from Dhaulagiri in the west to Kanchenjunga in the east, weather permitting. The evening presents an opportunity to witness one of the most spectacular sunsets in Nepal.

    • Distance: 35km | Duration: 5-6 hours | Elevation Gain: 10m
    • Terrain: Ridge-top trails, scenic mountain roads
    • Scenic Rewards: Sunrise/sunset views, Himalayan panorama
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • day 05
    Ride: Nagarkot to Dhulikhel (1,550m/5,085ft)

    Experience a scenic descent from Nagarkot’s elevated position to the historic town of Dhulikhel, one of the major settlements surrounding the Kathmandu Valley. This ancient trading post sits at the confluence of important trade routes that connected Tibet with the Indian plains. The ride offers diverse terrain as you transition from mountain ridge environments to traditional valley settlements. Dhulikhel maintains its medieval character with traditional Newari architecture, intricate wood carvings, and centuries-old temples. The town provides stunning sunset views of the great Himalayan chain and serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside.

    • Distance: 20km | Duration: 4-5 hours | Elevation Loss: 625m
    • Terrain: Scenic descent, ancient settlement roads
    • Cultural Element: Ancient trade route town, traditional Newari architecture
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • day 06
    Ride: Dhulikhel to Namo Buddha to Godavari (1,545m/5,069ft)

    Journey through beautiful landscapes to reach Namo Buddha, one of the most sacred Tibetan Buddhist sites in Nepal. This spiritual destination holds profound significance as the location where Buddha, in a previous incarnation, offered his body to feed a starving tigress and her cubs. Take lunch here and spend time enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and exploring the monastery complex. Continue cycling through diverse terrain to reach Godavari, famous for its spectacular botanical gardens and peaceful forested environment. This nature lover’s paradise offers serene cycling experiences through diverse flora and provides optional excursions to Phulchoki Hill summit for panoramic valley views.

    • Distance: 25km | Duration: 5-6 hours | Mixed Elevation: 50m descent, 95m ascent
    • Terrain: Village roads, sacred site access, forest tracks
    • Sacred Sites: Namo Buddha Buddhist pilgrimage site
    • Nature Highlights: Godavari botanical gardens, diverse ecosystem exploration
    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
    • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • day 07
    Ride: Godavari to Patan to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft)

    Begin the return journey by cycling to Patan, home to one of Nepal’s most magnificent UNESCO World Heritage sites showcasing the finest examples of Newar craftsmanship. Patan Durbar Square features the famous Mahaboudha Temple, Kumbeshwor temple, Krishna Temple, and Golden Temple, each representing different aspects of Nepal’s rich architectural heritage. This ancient city, also known as Lalitpur, has been a center of arts and crafts for over a millennium. After exploring the architectural marvels and perhaps visiting local artisan workshops, complete your valley circuit by returning to Kathmandu, marking the successful completion of your cultural valley circumnavigation.

    • Distance: 25km | Duration: 5-6 hours | Elevation Loss: 145m
    • Terrain: Forest roads, urban cycling, historic square exploration
    • UNESCO Site: Patan Durbar Square heritage exploration
    • Achievement: Cultural valley circuit completed
    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
    • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • day 08
    Leisure Day in Kathmandu & Farewell Celebration

    Enjoy a well-deserved rest day after six days of cycling. Morning at leisure with optional visit to Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) for panoramic valley views. Afternoon free for souvenir shopping in Thamel markets and local handicraft shops. Conclude with a traditional Nepalese farewell dinner featuring cultural performances.

    • Activities: Leisure morning, optional Swayambhunath visit, souvenir shopping
    • Accommodation: Three-star hotel (twin-sharing basis)
    • Meal: Breakfast & Traditional farewell dinner with cultural shows
  • day 09
    Final Departure

    Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure, carrying with you unforgettable memories and experiences from your comprehensive Kathmandu Valley cycling adventure. This cultural cycling journey through UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient temples, traditional villages, and scenic hill stations provides lasting impressions of Nepal’s extraordinary cultural diversity and natural beauty.

    • Activities: Airport transfer, departure
    • Journey Completion: 9-day cultural valley circuit accomplished
    • Meal: Breakfast

What's Included

  • Airport transfers in private vehicle upon arrival and departure
  • Accommodation at three-star hotel in Kathmandu on twin-sharing basis with breakfast provided
  • Mountain bikes included all brands available (Trek, Giant, Specialized, and other premium options)
  • All meals during cycling journey (breakfast, lunch, and dinner at guesthouses)
  • Accommodation at standard guesthouses during cycling trip on twin-sharing basis
  • All entrance fees for monuments, temples, and heritage sites
  • Local government-licensed guides throughout the journey
  • Fees for entering Shivapuri National Park
  • Duffel bag, sun hat, and t-shirt as souvenirs from Mountain Kick
  • Traditional Nepali farewell dinner with cultural performances
  • All tourist fees, government charges, and official expenses throughout the trip

What's Not Included

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (except farewell dinner)
  • Additional accommodation before, during, or after the set itinerary
  • Airport charges for excess luggage
  • Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, bottled water, and snacks
  • Personal expenses including phone calls, internet, laundry, and tips
  • Travel insurance (mandatory and must cover emergency rescue and evacuation)
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Nepal visa fees
  • Mountain biking equipment and personal cycling gear (bike rental can be arranged locally)
  • Down jacket and sleeping bag
  • Additional porters beyond standard support
  • Any expenses not specifically mentioned in the What’s Included” section

Accommodation during the Trip

Experience authentic Nepali hospitality throughout your valley circuit with carefully selected accommodations that blend comfort with cultural immersion. In Kathmandu, you’ll stay at three-star hotels that provide modern amenities while maintaining traditional character, while cycling days feature standard guesthouses that offer genuine local experiences.

All accommodations include essential amenities: reliable electricity, internet connectivity, laundry services, and hot showers. Standard packages feature twin-sharing arrangements with fellow travelers, creating opportunities for shared adventure stories and new friendships.

Single Supplement: Available upon request. Single rooms are readily available in Kathmandu and lower elevation areas, though availability may be limited at higher mountain elevations where traditional guesthouses emphasize community-style accommodation.

The accommodation selection prioritizes authentic experiences over luxury, allowing you to connect with local culture while maintaining comfort and cleanliness standards essential for an active cycling adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How difficult is the Kathmandu Valley Biking Tour?
    This tour is rated as Easy difficulty and designed for recreational cyclists of varying fitness levels. Daily rides involve 3-6 hours of cycling with moderate distances (20-35km per day) and manageable elevation changes. The maximum altitude reaches only 7,136 feet at Nagarkot, eliminating altitude sickness concerns. Most routes follow established roads and forest trails with minimal technical challenges, making it accessible for cyclists with basic bike handling skills.
  • What type of bike do I need for valley cycling?
    Mountain bikes are included in your tour package with all premium brands available (Trek, Giant, Specialized, and other quality options). The provided bikes are well-maintained and suitable for the mixed terrain of roads, forest trails, and village paths. If bringing your own bike, a hybrid or mountain bike with good tires is recommended. Road bikes are not suitable for the forest sections through Shivapuri National Park.
  • How physically fit do I need to be for this cultural circuit?
    Basic to moderate fitness is sufficient for this Easy-rated tour. You should be comfortable cycling 3-6 hours with regular breaks and able to handle gentle climbs. Unlike high-altitude expeditions, no specialized training is required. Regular recreational cycling or walking provides adequate preparation. The tour includes rest stops, flexible pacing, and support vehicle backup for those who need breaks.
  • What cultural sites will I visit during the valley circuit?
    The circuit includes multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites, most notably Patan Durbar Square with its intricate Newari architecture and ancient temples. You'll visit Namo Buddha, one of Tibet's most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites, explore traditional Tamang and Sherpa villages, and experience the medieval trading town of Dhulikhel with centuries-old temples and wood carvings. The route also includes Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) and cycling through pristine Shivapuri National Park.
  • How are meals arranged during the valley circuit?
    All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included during cycling days at traditional guesthouses, offering authentic local cuisine with vegetarian and vegan options available. In Kathmandu, only breakfast is provided at your hotel, allowing flexibility to explore local restaurants. Meals are healthy, hygienic, and showcase traditional Nepali flavors throughout your cultural journey.
  • What permits and documentation are required?
    Simply bring your passport and travel insurance copy. Mountain Kick handles all required permits including Shivapuri National Park fees and UNESCO heritage site entrance fees. Tourist fees and government charges are included in your package, eliminating paperwork concerns during your cultural exploration.
  • How much should I budget for additional expenses?
    Budget approximately $50 for lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, and $35 per day during cycling portions for personal expenses. Nepal's favorable exchange rate makes most items affordable. Additional costs may include souvenirs, extra drinks, laundry, and optional activities. The tour is comprehensive with most essentials included.
  • What's the accommodation like during the circuit?
    You'll stay at three-star hotels in Kathmandu and carefully selected standard guesthouses during cycling days that provide authentic local experiences. All accommodations feature electricity, internet connectivity, laundry services, and hot showers. Twin-sharing is standard with single supplement available upon request. The selection prioritizes cultural immersion while maintaining comfort standards.
  • Are credit cards accepted throughout the valley?
    International credit cards work in Kathmandu and major hotels, but remote village locations may not accept them with potential processing fees. Carrying some Nepalese Rupees is recommended for rural areas, local markets, and small purchases during your cultural explorations.
  • What transportation is provided between cycling locations?
    Private vehicles (cars, jeeps, or microbuses) handle short transfers, while longer distances use comfortable tourist buses exclusively hired by Mountain Kick. All transportation includes guide accompaniment for safety and cultural commentary, with support vehicle backup available during cycling segments.
  • What's the tipping etiquette for this cultural tour?
    Tipping is appreciated but not required. Satisfied travelers typically follow their home country customs of 10-15% of total trip cost. Tips can be distributed among guides and support staff at the end of your valley circuit as a gesture of gratitude for exceptional service.
  • Tipping is appreciated but not required. Satisfied travelers typically follow their home country customs of 10-15% of total trip cost. Tips can be distributed among guides and support staff at the end of your valley circuit as a gesture of gratitude for exceptional service.
    Tourist visas are available at Nepal's embassy in your home country or conveniently upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Costs are $40 for 30 days or $100 for 90 days, requiring two passport-size photographs. The on-arrival process is straightforward and efficient.
  • What emergency procedures are in place?
    The low-altitude nature of this valley circuit minimizes serious risks compared to high-altitude expeditions. Guides carry first aid kits, and medical facilities are accessible in Kathmandu and surrounding areas. Comprehensive travel insurance covering emergency evacuation is mandatory. The tour's proximity to urban areas ensures quick access to medical care if needed.
  • Can I customize my valley biking itinerary?
    Mountain Kick offers flexible customization including private departures, itinerary modifications, and extensions to include other Nepal experiences. Contact us with your preferences for personalized arrangements that suit your cultural interests and fitness level.

Essential Trip Information

Biking Difficulty and Requirements

  • Grade: Easy (2/10 difficulty rating)
  • Suitable for recreational cyclists with basic fitness levels
  • Most routes follow established roads and forest trails with minimal technical challenges
  • Mountain bikes included in tour package with all premium brands available (Trek, Giant, Specialized)

Medical Consultation

  • Basic travel medical consultation recommended, especially for travelers with pre-existing conditions
  • Travel insurance covering emergency evacuation is mandatory
  • No altitude sickness concerns due to maximum elevation of only 7,136 feet at Nagarkot

Vaccinations

  • Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, COVID-19, and seasonal influenza
  • Consult your healthcare provider at least 4-6 weeks before travel

Spare Days Essential

  • Plan 1-2 additional days beyond the standard itinerary for flexibility with international flights
  • Schedule your international departure at least 1-2 days after planned trip completion
  • Weather delays are minimal due to low-altitude valley location

Day Activities

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site tours available in Kathmandu before or after your expedition
  • Optional visits to Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) and local artisan workshops
  • Cultural performances and traditional craft demonstrations available

Group Discounts

  • Special rates available for groups booking together
  • Contact us for specific pricing based on your party size

Packing Checklist

Mountain Biking Equipment

  • Mountain bikes included in tour package (Trek, Giant, Specialized, and other premium brands available)
  • Bike helmet (mandatory)
  • Bike gloves (minimum 2 pairs)
  • Cycling glasses with UV protection
  • Padded cycling shorts (minimum 3 pairs for comfort)
  • Cycling jerseys short and long sleeve
  • Comfortable cycling shoes (clipless or flat pedal compatible)
  • Basic bike repair knowledge helpful (bikes maintained by tour company)
  • Water bottles or hydration system
  • Small daypack for personal items during rides
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We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary. You can customize your itinerary exactly the way you want. Please share with us your ideas.

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As one of the core guiding principles for Mountain Kick, we always give back to the mountain community in any way we can as a means of gratitude. The people who live in the Himalayas and share their homes with us deserve to have all their little problems fixed which seem very basic for outsiders but are commonplace in rural Nepal. The people lack proper access to healthcare, sanitation and education but a little effort from travellers goes on a long way to solve these issues. Mountain Kick has made it its corporate social responsibility to help improve the living standards of the local community. We make donations to their cause, organize social campaigns and programs and also have a few trips designed to mix a little volunteer work in your holiday.

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