5-12 people
Adventure
Tea House
B / L / D
Motor Bike
Mar - May & Sept - Nov
A bicycle tour in Nepal offers an exciting and unforgettable way to explore the country's stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant cities. From the foothills of the mighty Himalayas to the lush valleys, cycling through Nepal provides an immersive experience that combines adventure, nature, and local culture. Here's an overview of what you can expect from a bicycle bike tour in Nepal.
Popular Cycling Routes in Nepal
Nepal is known for its diverse terrain, so bike tours here can range from challenging mountain routes to scenic valley rides. Some of the most popular routes for cycling tours in Nepal include:
- Kathmandu Valley Loop: This is an ideal starting point for cyclists looking to explore Nepal's capital and surrounding areas. The loop takes you through ancient temples, medieval towns like Bhaktapur and Patan, and offers views of the Himalayas. It’s a mix of paved roads and dirt paths, offering a manageable but culturally rich ride.
- Annapurna Circuit: This famous trek can also be done by bike. The route passes through scenic mountain villages, lush forests, and dramatic landscapes. It's a more challenging ride, with steep climbs and varying altitudes. You’ll experience views of the Annapurna Massif and ride through picturesque towns like Pokhara, Manang, and Jomsom.
- Pokhara to Jomsom: A popular route for mountain biking enthusiasts. Starting in the beautiful lakeside town of Pokhara, cyclists ride through the Kali Gandaki Valley, passing traditional villages and getting incredible views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. This is a rugged route with a combination of uphill and downhill sections.
- Langtang Valley: A beautiful route near the Langtang region, which takes cyclists through lush forests, Tibetan villages, and amazing mountain views. The ride offers a mix of dirt trails and jeep tracks and is less crowded than the Annapurna Circuit.
- Kathmandu to Dhulikhel: This is a shorter, scenic route for those looking for a less intense ride. It offers views of the Kathmandu Valley, small rural villages, and temples. Dhulikhel is known for its sunrise views over the Himalayas.
Best Time for Cycling in Nepal
- Spring (March to May): This is considered one of the best times to visit Nepal for cycling. The weather is warm and pleasant, with clear skies and minimal rainfall.
- Autumn (September to November): Another excellent time for bike tours, as the weather is cool and dry. This is peak tourist season in Nepal, so the roads are busy, but the visibility of the mountains is great.
- Winter (December to February): While the lower altitudes are fine for cycling, higher elevations may be too cold or covered in snow, making biking less accessible.
Difficulty Levels
Nepal offers a variety of routes suited to different skill levels:
- Easy to Moderate: Cycling around the Kathmandu Valley or Pokhara can be a relatively easy experience with some moderate climbs and descents.
- Moderate to Hard: The Annapurna Circuit or Langtang Valley requires more endurance due to steep sections and varying altitudes.
- Challenging: For experienced mountain bikers, high-altitude routes like the Upper Mustang or more rugged parts of the Annapurna region can be demanding, but provide a real challenge with stunning views.
Cycling Equipment
You can either bring your own bike or rent one from a local shop in cities like Kathmandu or Pokhara. Renting a bike is common, and many shops offer high-quality mountain bikes, road bikes, or even electric bikes for more comfortable rides in Nepal’s tough terrain.
5. Tour Packages
Many companies offer guided bike tours in Nepal, which provide local knowledge, vehicle support, and help with logistics. Some packages also include:
- Accommodation: Lodging in local guesthouses, hotels, or campsites along the route.
- Meals: Depending on the tour, meals may be included, often providing local and nutritious food to fuel your ride.
- Support Vehicles: Some tours offer support vehicles that can transport luggage, provide backup assistance, and pick up tired cyclists if necessary.
Considerations for Cycling in Nepal
- Altitude: Nepal’s diverse topography means you'll likely encounter high altitudes, so acclimatization is important to avoid altitude sickness. Make sure to stay hydrated and avoid pushing yourself too hard at higher elevations.
- Road Conditions: While major highways and some routes are paved, many paths in rural and mountainous areas are unpaved and rugged, requiring skill in handling a mountain bike.
- Safety: Wear a helmet, use reflective gear for visibility, and bring spare parts like tubes, tires, and a repair kit. Be mindful of traffic, as the roads can be busy, especially in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Trip Outline
Detail itinerary
1 Arrival in Nepal border then drive to Kathmandu
10 Hrs Lunch Hotel
Arrival in Nepal border then drive to Kathmandu
2 Test drive in Kathmandu combined with Dhulikhel sightseeing
7 Hrs Breakfast Hotel
Test drive in Kathmandu combined with Dhulikhel sightseeing
3 Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara
7 Hrs Breakfast Hotel
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara
4 Drive to Tansen Palpa
8 Hrs Breakfast Hotel
Drive to Tansen Palpa
5 Drive to Lumbini
5 Hrs Breakfast Hotel
Drive to Lumbini
6 Drive to Chitwan National Park
8 Hrs B / L/ D Hotel
Drive to Chitwan National Park
7 Local activities
7 Hrs B/ L/ D Hotel
Local activities
8 Departure to Nepal Border
7 Hrs Breakfast
Departure to Nepal Border
What's included?
- Guide
- Meals & Accommodation
- Government taxes
What's not included?
- Extra Bar Bills
- Private room
- Motor Bike
- Tips for guide