Trip Overview
The Kathmandu Valley Rim mountain biking trail offers a diverse and exciting way to enjoy the view of the Himalayas and mid-hills with a minimum level of altitude and hardship. While the trail does require a good level of endurance, it also offers a variety of experiences. The first day of the ride takes you to Jamacho, also considered one of the many highest points in Kathmandu. The second day of the ride is provided with a popular hill station- Kakani- where you will experience the range of Himalayas and enjoy the fresh strawberries from the farm riding along the semi-technical trail to Dadagaun.Â
The ride to Chisapani is another challenging one, as you will climb a long section on an open trail with no shade of trees. From Chisapani, the ride to Nagrkot will still be challenging. However, Nagarkot has cool weather, which will help calm your tiredness. Enjoy the local delicacies at Nagarkot while enjoying sunrise and sunset in the morning and evening. The trail to Namobuddha will take you to the most popular and sacred Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery, allowing you to understand Buddhism and the monk’s lifestyle. From Namobuddha, there will be a last climb to Lakhuri Bhanjyang, another hill station inhabited mainly by Tamang people.Â
Kathmandu Valley Rim trail is suitable for both endurance performers and soft riders as it allows you with low- altitude, making it easier for fast riders to push the limit and the beginners to go as slow as they can with no risk of catching a cold or getting lost in the wilderness. However, it’s important to note that the trail can be challenging, and riders should be prepared with adequate water, food, and protective gear. It is the best way to explore the rural villages and observe the lifestyle and culture of Nepal, especially people living around the hills.Â
Transportation
Van/Bus
Per Day Riding
5 to 7 hours
Best Season
Oct-Dec / Mar-May
Group Size
1-14 Pax
Accomodation
Hotel/Guest House
Trip Grade
Moderate
Max Height
2175M
Start/End
Kathmandu
Trip Highlight
- Get to visit the sacred Nagarjuna Buddha statue at the top of Jamacho Gumba.
- Ride in a naturally built technical trail around Shivapuri National Park.
- Encounter birds like the Bar-headed Goose, Asian Koel, and Gray-bellied inside Shivapuri National Park.
- Encounter with animals like wild boar, wild cats, deer, and leopards.
- Enjoy the wildflowers and unique trees.
- Enjoy the range of Himalayas from Chisapani.
- Immerse in the sunrise and sunset moment at Nagarkot.
- Visit Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery in Namobuddha.
- Ride between the lunch green hills and natural trails around Kathmandu.
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Detail Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), a company representative or a guide will welcome you and ensure a seamless transfer to the hotel. Rest assured, our hotels in Kathmandu are hand-picked with great care, focusing on top-notch hygiene and cleanliness to provide you with a comfortable and pleasant stay. A guide and a driver will be assigned according to the day's plan for shopping, side strolls, and welcome dinner, ensuring your needs are met.
Kathmandu, with its rich culture and vibrant lifestyle, can be a fascinating experience, especially for a first-time visitor to Nepal. As you explore the city, you will be captivated by the diversity and unique customs of the Nepalese people. However, it's important to be cautious while navigating the streets and alleys, and to avoid unsolicited interactions. To fully appreciate your visit, we recommend learning about Kathmandu's culture and customs in advance, which will enhance your experience and prevent any culture shock or inconvenience.Â
Welcome Dinner
Hotel
The journey around Kathmandu Valley Rim starts from your hotel in Thamel and follows the path towards Balaju Bypass. A 10-minute ride from the point you reach the Jamacho checkpoint, where the national park entry tickets must be purchased. The trail from the gate to Jamacho top starts with a gradual climb for about 2 hrs. From the top, you follow through the dense, narrow jungle path, offroad and downhill until Mudkhu. From Mudkhu, you again follow a mellow jeep track climb to Tinpipley. Tinpipley is close to Kathmandu. It is a popular point for locals from the valley to come for a weekend getaway. Dispersed settlements and extensive farmlands surround the area.Â
 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
 Hotel
Today's trail starts with a mild climb to a steep climb up to Kakani's top. From there, you ride inside Shivapuri National Park via Scout Camp. There is another army checkpoint at the start of the Scar route. The Scar route is a beginner's friendly single-track technical trail that follows through the national park inside narrow, dense forests. This trail is most popular among Kathmandu's fun riders, athletes, and trail runners. You can hear many birds chirping and even spot wild boar, deer, and leopard. The Scar route opens to the broad path of Gurjebhanjyang, following a similar trail type but a bit wider than before that heads towards Dadagaun. It is a long, tiring day, but the sense of accomplishment and the delicious food that awaits at Dadagaun, where you will also spend your night, will make it all worth it.
 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Hotel
The route to Chisapani starts with gradual downhill parts inside the forests of Shivapuri National Park, which later becomes steeper as the trail goes further inside the forests. Once you reach Mulkharka, there will be approx. 2-3 hrs. long uphill until Chisapani. On the way, you cross Dhap Dam, where you can quickly stop. On a clear day, you will see the magnificent views of Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Dorje Lakpa. You will also see some remains of the affected houses from the 2015 earthquake.
 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Hotel
Today, we start the day with a beautiful sunrise from the hotel, following the same path until Haibung. From there, we route to Jarsingpauwa, following an off-road and paved road alongside the large corn fields. The route is smooth, with some short, steep climbs to Jarsingpauwa. From there, you follow a steeper bit to Kartike and Nagarkot. Nagarkot is a hill station near Kathmandu popular amongst locals for a quick weekend getaway. Now, the area is also trendy for mountain biking and short hikes. This place is best for sunrise and sunset points. On a clear day, you can enjoy the Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal range, Langtang, Jugal, Rolwaling, Mahalangurand, and Numbur range. You will stay at a comfortable lodge with basic amenities and a cozy atmosphere.Â
 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Hotel
The weather is usually pleasant during this most of the time of the year, with mild temperatures and clear skies.The trail from Nagarkot to Namobuddha is mostly off-road downhill and long, flat paved road between the small towns and farmlands. It will be a relaxing day compared to previous days. You will be arriving at Namobuddha at midday, allowing you to visit the famous and sacred Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery. One can stay in a monastery and share food with the monks, a unique experience that will enrich your understanding of the local culture. The monastery is spread over a hill, so it will take at least an hour or two to explore every corner and find stories. It will be a spiritual time in Namobuddha.
 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Monastery Guest House
The trail from Namobuddha to Balthali is mainly a paved road and flat. You will cross small villages and hills on the way. A traditional village with uniquely built structures and temples will welcome you to Balthali. Like Nagarkot, it is also one of the famous points for the locals as a weekend getaway. The village is located behind Panauti forests and has a comprehensive view of terraced farmlands and massive hills. You can also see a faint view of the Himalayas towards the north.
 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Hotel
Today's ride will include steep and gradual climbs up to Lakhuri Bhanjyang, primarily an off-road jeep track, and an off-road downhill ride to Lubhu. You will ride between small villages and farmlands, enjoying the freshness of nature. The lush greenery, the sound of birds, and the sight of the rolling hills will make you feel deeply connected to the tranquility of nature. From Lubu, a shuttle jeep will take you to your hotel in Thamel.
Breakfast,Lunch
Hotel
After morning breakfast at the hotel you will be picked up from the hotel for your departure flight back home. Normally you should be at the airport three hours before your flight time.
Breakfast
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What's Included In The Package
- All (international and domestic) airport transfers on a tourist /Private vehicle.
- Twin-sharing/double accommodation during the entire trip..
- All your standard meals during the trip (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner).
- Experienced, first-aid trained, government licensed, English-speaking Mountainbiking guide.
- National Park tickets.
- Luggage drop facility.
- Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance for all staff.
- All administrative expenses and government taxes.
- Evacuation assistance in case of emergency.
- Basic first aid bag.
What's Excluded In The Package
- International air fare.
- Mountain Bike Hire,Biking Gears and components.
- Nepal Visa.
- Emergency Evacuation/s and medical treatments.
- Upgrade of accommodations.
- Travel Insurances.
- Emergency evacuation(s), Accidents, recovery & additional transport.
- Change in Itinerary due to cancelled helicopter flight or unavoidable delays on route i.e. landslides etc, extra or cancelled accommodation etc.
- Personal Expenses.
- Some meals, all kind of bottled drinks, Internet services, hot showers etc.
- Tips for the guides, porters and drivers.
Fixed Departure Dates For 2025
Essential Information
Before booking
- Choose the right trip, considering your health, physical ability, and experiences.
- Read the terms and conditions properly.
- Make sure the payment is delivered to ensure the final confirmation.
After Booking
High-altitude activities in Nepal are not just physically demanding, they are a test of your fitness. It’s not a suggestion, it’s a necessity to ensure you’re physically ready for these adventures. By committing to physical training, you’ll not only be prepared, but you’ll also be confident and ready to take on the challenge.
For Mountain Biking:
A good quality bike hire would cost US$50 for hardtail -$70 for full suspension per day.
- For multiple days of Mountain biking in Nepal, ensure you have trained yourself well. Long-distance uphill cycling practices would help a lot.
- Feed on the right nutritious food rich in protein, healthy fat, and carbohydrates.
- Keep yourself focused and determined, which helps to strengthen your willpower for the next challenge ahead.
International Flights arrangements:You are responsible for arranging the international flight ticket and travel insurance, which can cover emergency evacuation and medical treatment. Our package doesn’t include this service.