sAround Kathmandu Valley Mountain Biking - Orion Trails

Orion Trails

Around Kathmandu Valley Mountain Biking

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Trip Facts

Location

Kathmandu

Duration

10 Days

Language

English, Hindi, Japanese, Urdu

Accessibility

Although labelled “moderate”, you will face climbs and some technical descent sections; choose a tour that matches your fitness.

Tour Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing by Mountain Bike
Day 03: Kathmandu to Kakani (via Shivapuri Forest)
Day 04: Kakani to Chisapani
Day 05: Chisapani to Dhulikhel via Nagarkot
Day 06: Dhulikhel to Namo Buddha & Balthali Village
Day 07: Balthali to Lakuri Bhanjyang and Godavari
Day 08: Godavari to Bungamati & Hattiban
Day 09: Hattiban to Dakshinkali, Pharping & Return to Kathmandu
Day 10: Final Departure

Group Type

1-10

Highlights
  • Explore hidden Kathmandu Valley trails, visiting historical Bhaktapur and Patan, plus the scenic Nagarkot hill resort.
  • Witness panoramic Himalayan sunsets and bike through picturesque villages, monasteries, and forested temples.
  • The route includes Dhulikhel, Nagarkot, and sacred sites like Dakchhinkali, Palanchowk, Namo Buddha, and Bhagawati.
  • This biking tour offers a unique perspective on Buddhist stupas, towns, and countless cultural landmarks.
Meeting Place

Amrit marg thamel

End of the tour

Amrit marg thamel

Including
  • Required numbers of time Airport pick up and drop off as per your flight schedule (international and domestic). All required transfers in Kathmandu too.
  • All tour in Mountain Cycle.
  • Standard tea house (lodge) Accommodation .
  • Three meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner).
  • An experienced government certified local Cycling Guide.
  • Staff’s foods, salary, insurance, accommodation, meals, transportation etc.
  • General first Aid Kit.
  • A certificate of appreciation (experience certificate) after completing the Trek.
  • Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program.
  • All government taxes and applicable paperwork.
Not included
  • International Airfare.
  • Personal Travel Insurance.
  • Personal expenses (bar, laundry, personal shopping).
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Alcoholic beverage.
  • Personal equipment, Personal Cycling Gear etc.
  • TIPS for Staff.

Description

Biking through the Kathmedu Valley gives a quick break from urban chaos while mixing local life with mountain scenery. Trails lead past still villages, wooded slopes, paddies glowing green, then rise along high edges showing off distant peaks. Pick relaxed rides near farms or push uphill hard toward spots such as Nagarkot or Kakani. Riders bump into welcoming villagers, glimpse old stone shrines, cruise narrow dirt paths away from traffic and honking. This kind of trip feels wilder, full of real moments, unplanned beauty, sharp turns, fresh air.

Few Things to Know Before Your Trip

1. Trails can surprise you.
One week a trail is smooth and flowy, the next week a farmer’s tractor or rainstorm turns it into mud or loose rock. Don’t assume yesterday’s conditions are still the same.

2. The climbs are real.
The altitude isn’t crazy high, but the trails love to go up. Long, steady climbs to places like Nagarkot or Kakani can catch even fit riders off-guard. Pace yourself.

3. Getting out of the city takes patience.
The first few kilometers usually involve dodging traffic, dogs, pedestrians, and, occasionally, a cow that refuses to move. It gets peaceful once you hit the dirt.

4. It’s easy to get off-track.
Many trails split into tiny village paths with zero signs. A guide or a downloaded GPS route will save you from accidental “adventure detours.”

5. Villagers are friendly — ride respectfully.
You’ll pass through small neighborhoods, temples, and farms. Slow down, smile, say “Namaste,” and avoid kicking up dust around people or animals.

6. Rentals need a quick check.
Brakes, gears, suspension — give everything a few squeezes before you head out. The valley’s trails can be rough, so a quick check can prevent walk-back-to-Kathmandu situations.

7. Weather changes fast.
It can be sunny in the morning, misty by noon, and raining by afternoon. Keep a light rain jacket in your pack even if it looks perfect when you leave.

8. Animals have the right of way.
Goats, cows, stray dogs — they all use the trails too. Just slow down and let them figure out what they want to do.

9. Bring more water than you think.
Shops get rare once you’re deep into the hills. A couple of bottles and a snack bar can save your energy big time.

10. Cell service is patchy.
Some ridges have great signal, others none at all. Carry a basic repair kit and first aid — trail help might not always be close.

Detail Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel for rest and trip briefing.

Day 02: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing by Mountain Bike
Enjoy a relaxed biking tour around the cultural and historical highlights of Kathmandu Valley.

Day 03: Kathmandu to Kakani (via Shivapuri Forest)
Begin your adventure with a scenic ride through the lush Shivapuri Forest, climbing toward the cool hillside town of Kakani.

Day 04: Kakani to Chisapani
Ride along forest trails and ridgelines with panoramic mountain views on your way to Chisapani.

Day 05: Chisapani to Dhulikhel via Nagarkot
A beautiful ride across rolling hills and charming villages, passing through the famous viewpoint of Nagarkot before reaching Dhulikhel.

Day 06: Dhulikhel to Namo Buddha & Balthali Village
Cycle to the serene monastery at Namo Buddha and continue towards the peaceful, traditional setting of Balthali Village.

Day 07: Balthali to Lakuri Bhanjyang and Godavari
Tackle scenic climbs and flowing trails as you ride toward Lakuri Bhanjyang and descend to the green valley of Godavari.

Day 08: Godavari to Bungamati & Hattiban
Explore charming Newari heritage villages and ride through forest paths on the way to Hattiban.

Day 09: Hattiban to Dakshinkali, Pharping & Return to Kathmandu
Final riding day through spiritual sites and rugged trails, visiting Dakshinkali and Pharping before heading back to Kathmandu.

Day 10: Final Departure
Transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule. Farewell and safe travels!

Top Route Recommendations

1. Nagarkot Ridge Ride (Intermediate–Advanced)

One of the most popular rides for a reason. Big climbs, forest single-track, and stunning Himalayan views on clear days. Great if you want a full adventure day.

2. Kakani to Budhanilkantha (Intermediate)

A classic ridge-line trail with fast descents, pine forests, and great valley views. Not too technical but very fun.

3. Lubhu – Godavari – Chapagaun Loop (Beginner–Intermediate)

A beautiful countryside ride: rice fields, village paths, smooth dirt roads. Perfect if you want something scenic and not too exhausting.

4. Chisapani Trail (Advanced)

A long, challenging route with steep climbs and technical downhill. Best for strong riders who want a serious workout and epic scenery.

5. Shivapuri National Park Ride (Intermediate–Advanced)

Steep forested climbs and thrilling descents. Requires a park permit, but totally worth it if you’re seeking real mountain terrain close to the city.

🟢 If You’re a Beginner

Choose Godavari, Tokha, or Bungamati loops. They’re peaceful, scenic, and don’t require hardcore biking skills.

🔵 If You Want Views

Go for Nagarkot or Kakani — both offer sunrise-type Himalayan panoramas.

🔴 If You Want Adventure

Pick Chisapani or Shivapuri — big climbs, technical trails, and full-day stamina required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! There are plenty of beginner-friendly routes around Godavari, Bungamati, Tokha, and Chapagaun. You can avoid steep climbs and still enjoy scenic countryside riding.

Autumn (Oct–Nov) and Spring (Mar–May) offer the best weather—clear skies, mild temperatures, and great views. Winter is rideable but colder; monsoon (Jun–Sep) is muddy and unpredictable.

A mountain bike (hardtail or full suspension) is ideal. Trails vary from dirt roads to rocky single-track, so a road bike won’t work. Full-suspension is great for Nagarkot, Chisapani, and Shivapuri.

Yes—many shops in Thamel and Patan rent good-quality MTBs. Daily rental includes helmets; full-suspension bikes may cost more.

You’ll find all levels:

Easy: Village loops (Godavari, Chapagaun)

Moderate: Kakani, Tokha–Budhanilkantha

Hard: Nagarkot single-track, Chisapani, Shivapuri steep climbs

Very safe on the trails. The only caution is traffic when exiting the city and occasional loose dogs or livestock on the route. Carrying water, a basic tool kit, and riding respectfully in villages is enough.

Only for Shivapuri National Park routes; you’ll need an entry ticket at the gate. Most other valley trails are free.

Day rides usually range from 20–45 km, depending on the route. Longer routes like Chisapani can reach 60–70 km and take a full day.

Yes! On clear days, ridges like Nagarkot, Kakani, and Chisapani offer incredible Himalayan panoramas.

Yes!! There are no restrictions for bringing your own bike. You are welcome to do so but you should know that we will not be responsible for its possible damages and safety.

The Itinerary of associated services and events are set on the website. The organizer and client both reserve the right to change the itinerary according to the need and conditions. So, If you wish to amend any events itinerary make sure to contact our administrators.

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Cancellations

Full refund if cancelled 15 days prior; 50% refund if cancelled 8–14 days prior; no refund if cancelled within 7 days due to finalized arrangements. Cancellations to be made in writing (email/message); in cases of severe weather, natural events, or government restrictions, tours may be rescheduled/credited for future use; travel insurance is recommended.

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