When most people think of Nepal, they imagine those brave backpackers summiting Mount Everest. Nepal isnβt just about its trekking culture, though. Instead, you can find a mix of just about anything in terms of outdoor activities, including a stellar mountain biking culture.
Biking up in the heights of the Himalayas or following behind the trail of a yak is a once-in-a-lifetime type of experience. The biking scene in Nepal has rapidly grown in popularity. Even with a newer biking scene, you still get the chance to enjoy the freedom that some of the ancient trails through Nepal give.
It is essential to understand that Nepal is still working on its in-country infrastructure. Outside of the primary cities in Nepal, the countryside is ruggedly bordered by wilderness.Β That means that it can be quite a trek to even get to the trails in Nepal. However, as long as you are willing to push through, you will be rewarded with some of the most stunning mountain biking routes of your life.
All the Best Nepalese Mountain Biking Adventures
Our list includes some of the ancient trails used by travelers through Nepal and newly established routes. There are certain trails and regions, like Kathmandu Valley, that is considered a βclassicβ in the mountain biking scene in Nepal. Others have more recently been established as mountain biking trails but still offer just as much of an experience.
Mustang
The Mustang trail has two different parts, the Upper Mustang and the Lower Mustang. This trail is one of what mountain bikers call one of the βnewβ classics. These have been around for quite a while but might not have been deeply popular until they were made more popular by modern media.
The Mustang trail is a good example since it only recently became more popular because of the Anthill Films crew in the movie βStrength in Numbers.β Then Red Bull created an advertisement called βWhere the Trail Endsβ that featured the same trail. Shortly after these became well-known, the trail transformed into a bikerβs haven.
The Lower Mustang trail is the most accessible part of the area, with all kinds of twists and turns on the trail to make it possible to have a custom 5 to 10-day trip each time.
The Upper Mustang trail is remote and quite a restricted area. Since it is in a restricted area, it is more expensive as you will need to acquire a permit. However, it is worth it for many since you can visit the ancient fortress of Lo Manthang and enjoy genuinely spectacular trails.
Pokhara
Pokhara is a region in Nepal that contains some of its middle hills before getting to the numerous types of mountains in the other portion of the country. There are quite a few day trips you can take in this region, so if you only have a short time or donβt want to go mountain bike packing, this is a good area for you.You can also talk to the locals to be able to tailor trips to your tastes. They will be able to point you to the more challenging or beautiful trails in the region.
Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit is likely the most popular and classic mountain biking trail in Nepal. However, that isnβt to say that this trail is a good option for beginners. On the contrary, the trail is better-suited for fit, experienced riders. It is also a good trail if you want to challenge yourself but get plenty of rewards back out of it.
The Annapurna Circuit will give you some of the most outstanding views of the worldβs highest mountains. However, you will likely need to carry materials on your bike to camp out on your trip because of its remote reach.
Shivapuri National Park
Shivapuri National Park is one of the ten national parks in Nepal. It is an excellent solution to fit in a mountain biking trip here if you are close to Kathmandu. Shivapuri National Park is right on the outskirts of Kathmandu.
Trips here get you out of the city and entirely immersed in nature in moments. The trails are less mountain-view focused and instead give you a window into lush, green forests.
Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu Valley is another excellent option for those that arenβt interested in straying too far from Kathmandu or striking out into the higher altitudes of the country. There are many beautiful day trips in the valley, many of which are guided by companies based in the capital city.
The Valley also gives you a unique cultural experience of Nepalβs communities and history. You will pass through numerous local villages. In addition, you will have the opportunity to see areas infrequently visited by other tourists, giving you a unique glimpse into Nepal.
Take a look at a selection of the tours Mountain Biking Worldwide has on offer here or contact us on info@mtb-worldwide.com for a tailor made itinerary to any of the above locations.
