The 5 Best Cycling Holidays in Nepal
Whether you’re looking for a physical challenge, cultural immersion, or simply a new way to experience the majestic Himalayas, a cycling holiday in Nepal could be an unforgettable experience.
Cycling holidays in Nepal offer a unique and enriching experience for several reasons:
- Diverse Terrain: Nepal’s varied landscapes provide an exciting challenge for cyclists, from the flat river valleys to the steep mountain passes.
- Spectacular Views: With eight of the world’s ten highest peaks, including Mount Everest, the views are unparalleled and awe-inspiring.
- Cultural Immersion: Cycling through Nepal allows for close encounters with local cultures and traditions, offering a more intimate travel experience.
- Environmental Impact: Biking is a sustainable way to travel, reducing the carbon footprint and helping preserve Nepal’s natural beauty.
- Physical and Mental Benefits: Cycling is not only good for physical health but also offers mental health benefits as you ride through serene landscapes.
These reasons make cycling holidays in Nepal not just a journey through beautiful terrains but also an adventure that nourishes the soul and body. Whether you’re looking for a physical challenge, cultural immersion, or simply a new way to experience the majestic Himalayas, a cycling holiday in Nepal could be an unforgettable experience. With the holidays fast approaching, what better way to unwind than to Pedal to experience rich culture, nature and religion in Nepal? If you and your family are looking forward to making unforgettable memories this holiday, then Nepal is the way to go.
These tours are designed to cater to different levels of cycling enthusiasts and provide a unique way to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Nepal. Remember to check the latest details and availability as they can change over time.
With that, here are 5 of the best cycling holidays in Nepal.
Kathmandu to Pokhara Cycling.
Come explore culture on this mountain biking tour where you get to learn more about the culture and pageantry of the three tiny kingdoms: Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur right on your way to Gorkha.
Among the historic sites that you will get to explore is palace of the former principality of Gorkha and the Gorkha warriors. En route is a Hindu temple that celebrates the goddess Kali.
Pokhara, your last destination holds a lot of history too. It once served as the trade route between India and China. As at today it is the base for trekkers on the Annapurna circuit.
This tour gives you pure adventure!. As you cycle on dirt trails you also get to get the breath-taking view of the Himalayan ranges of Lang tang and Annapurna ranges down the Kathmandu valley to the lakeside Pokhara.
Do not leave your cameras behind; you do not want to miss out on documenting your experience.
Southern Nepal Cycling Tour.
Southern Nepal has a lot to offer than a mere leisurely cycle trip. The fun starts from the heart of the Terai lowlands which holds medieval towns, quaint hillside villages, protected wildlife and religious heritage of Buddhism and Hinduism.
Come and get to ride through pine forests as you make stops along remotes temples which offer a learning experience about the various kingdoms of the ancient Nepal. The tropical lowlands and the residents own large tracts of rice fields where they still practice traditional farming methods.
For a change, enjoy a rest day on a canoe as you see Nepal’s diverse wildlife at the Chitwan National Park just before getting to the place where the Lord Buddha was born. Newari city of Tansen is the climax of this tour. Its terrain provides cool climes and a thrilling descent to Pokhara.
Jomsom Muktinath Cycling Tour
This is a really short mountain biking tour nut spectacular in its own way. Jomsom is located at the heart of the Himalaya. You get to ride up between the as you catch a glimpse of one of the holiest temples in Nepal.
The circuit ends at Muktinath which is at the foot of the great Thorung La Pass on your way from the Annapurna Circuit trek. At this point you really are spoilt for choice. You can opt for amazing single track and downhill one of the deepest gorges in the world, the immaculate Kaligandaki River or bump along on the cobble paths and dip your feet in ice fed streams.
The best part about this trip is waking up to beautiful sunrise and seeing the mountains so clearly. What a way to start your day!
Annapurna Circuit Cycling Tour
This is not your ordinary Mountain biking tour. The circuit passes different landscapes ranging from lush sub-tropical rainforests to wooded alpine and high deserts. Interact with the local hill tribes as you get to learn more about their rich culture.
You cannot fail to notice the magnificent view of the Himalayan peaks including the Annapurna and the Manaslu. Challenge yourself by crossing the Thorung La Pass an ascent of 5,416 meters. The surrounding view of the mountains makes you enjoy the ride even more. Take a day off to indulge in short hikes as you explore the nearby area, visit high altitude lakes or just chill out in Manang. Who knows! You might not want to leave.
Langtang Tibet Border Cycling
This is a new tour that is least frequented. In your holiday, you get to ride to the Shivapari National Park and have a rare experience of seeing a variety of wildlife. On your way to the Tibetan Border is Kakani where you can rest overnight and wake up to the great Himalayan sunrise and catch a glimpse of beautiful landscapes. If you enjoy trekking, this will excite you.
Once you enter Langtang National Park, you will follow the famous trekking route of Langtang. The locals of this area are known for their big hearts. They are always fast to come to your rescue whenever you are experiencing any challenges. The natural hot spring at Gatlang village is the highlight of your holiday.
Nepal is one of the wealthiest countries in the entire world in terms of bio- diversity, geographical location and latitudinal variation. The Himalayan range covers 16% of the total area of the country with the hills occupying 65% of the total land area.
To say that Nepal’s scenery is amazing is actually an understatement; it is one of a kind. Mt. Everest is the highest peak that you will get to see in the Himalayan range.
The rich culture of the people is simply amazing. Many annual festivals are celebrated the entire year in traditional style depicting lasting customs and beliefs. Feel free to join in any of these celebrations and enjoy the cuisine and music.
If you enjoy trekking, hiking, peak climbing, expedition and historical monument sightseeing tours just sign up for a mountain biking tour in Nepal and have fun because it is only in Nepal where fun, adventure and leisure meet.
This article written by: David Bender