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Tours / Cycling Tour / Classic Nepal Biking Tour

The Himalayan kingdom of Nepal is one of the world's most beautiful countries. From the highest point on the earth to the jungle lowlands along the Indian border, there is an incredible variety of scenery, including huge glaciers, alpine pastures, thick uninhabited forests and carefully terraced hillsides.

Highlights of this trip include:

 

  • Visit many of the key sights
  • Dramatic flight across the Himalaya from Pokhara to Kathmandu
  • A stay in Royal Chitwan National Park
  • Good variety of cycling routes, on tarmac and rough tracks
  • Agriculture –terrace farmings,lowland vegetation and crops cultivation
  • Flora and Foana
  • Culture and People
  • Amazing old architecture

This trip gives you the opportunity to experience Nepal’s diversity in one of the most rewarding ways, by bike. Starting from Kathmandu we head into the Mahabarat mountains where you can experience the best Himalayan views in Nepal, from Dhaulagiri in the west to Everest in the in the East. From here, we bike down into the terai, close to the border of India where you will visit small thatched villages and experience the ancient farming traditions. Once in the terai, we visit the Chitwan National Park, one of Asia's finest wildlife parks, where you can go on elephant safari in search of rhino and tiger, or take to the river in a dugout canoe. Refreshed from the comforts of our lodge we return to the mountains, cycling towards the mighty panorama of the Annapurna range and the sacred peak of Macchapuchhare (Fish Tail).

 

Arriving in Pokhara, we have some time to relax by the lake or to experience some trekking before biking the ‘Royal Trek' and returning to Kathmandu by the scenic mountain flight. The Valley is the historic centre of Nepal, the place where kingdoms rose and fell, palaces and temples were built and rebuilt and Nepalese art and culture were developed and refined. The combination of some superb dirt tracks and more relaxing road sections, and the abundance of temples, monasteries and palaces, makes this both an exhilarating and fascinating place to cycle and indeed to end one of the most varied biking trips you could wish for.

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Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu in the late afternoon and transfer to our hotel.
In the evening, there will be a briefing on the trip. Those not flying with the group from London will join us in the afternoon in Kathmandu. O/N Guest house

Day 02: Kathmandu is such an extraordinary place that it is well worth having time to explore fully, so today is a free day.
There is of course the opportunity to get out on your bike for an independent ride around the bustling, mediaeval streets of old Kathmandu, or further field across the countryside to nearby Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur-The biggest out of the three Durbar Squares happens to lie peacefully in Bhaktapur. Lots of history and mind blowing architecture are treasured in the square. Some may prefer to look around on foot. In the evening, the group can get together and compare notes before thinking about the forthcoming trip.Overnight in Hotel

We drive just out of town to avoid heavy traffic. Check all your gears and bike towards Changu Narayan, the ancient temple complex here, which includes the oldest Hindu temple in the valley where in the sixth & seventh centuries, Newari stone masons made cravings of Lord Vishnu. The stone tablet standing on the west side of the temple is said to be the earliest known inscription in Kathmandu Valley. It depicts King Mandev’s military conquests in the fifth century. It’s on the way and enjoys commanding views over the valley and its fine statues are the best outside the National Museum. From here ride down to Bhaktapur is an ancient city, full of Newari culture. There are many temples and squares here that we will have time to explore. Overnight in Hotel

Day 03: After a heartfelt breakfast riding towards Surya Binayak and then to Lubhu, known for its handmade cloth.
Leaving Lubhu behind we head toward West on a jeep track passing paddy fields along the foot hill of the highest hill Phulchowki in the Valley on our way to Vajra Varahi home of the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Ancient woodland surrounds the temple, protected by the local belief that to cut even one tree would greatly anger the deity. We shall stop in this forest for some refreshments on a small clearing ideal for a rest and to enjoy the tranquil sanctuary of the ancient forest. The villagers still appease the wrathful Vishnu by weekly sacrifices of chicken, goat, and buffaloes. We spend the night at the Godawari Resort and if we still have enough energy, we can always visit the Botanical Garden of Godawari. Overnight in Resort

Altitude: 1400 mts (accommodation resort) Drive: Drive out of the Kathmandu to avoid heavy traffic (approx 6 km) Bike 9 km: Begin riding on broken tarmac road after crossing Bhaktapur town. Bike 30 km: off rd. Total Distance: 45 km (Kathmandu to Godavari Resort)

Day 04: We spend the morning sampling some exciting trails that lead up and across the valley rim to the south and on to the Kulekhani Dam Site (completed in 1982 Nepal's first major hydroelectric project).
In between the trails we ride through pine forests and many small villages (Hudu, Hunanae Bhanjyang, Fakhel and Kalanki) before reaching Markhu. A picturesque lake provides the perfect background for a lunch stop. We then carry on riding towards Daman riding on the Tribhuvan highway through, (Taukhel, Bajra Barahi, Thana bazaar). Anyone fancying an introduction to Himalayan hill climbing (14km) can spin all the way up. The hotel enjoys a spectacular mountainside location, arguably offering the most spectacular outlook on the Himalaya in all Nepal. On a clear day one can see all the way from Everest in the east to Dhaulagiri in the west. Daman also happens to be the highest point in the valley. Overnight in Hotel.

Altitude: 2325 mts Distance: 65 km

Day 05: After breakfast in the hotel, we set off for the hike down to visit the nearby monastery before returning to the hotel for lunch. With our appetites satisfied
We saddle up for the exciting ride down to Hetauda in the terai, the lowland area of Nepal. The road sweeps us down towards the plains of Northern India offering 1,500m of downhill over 52 km, we need to be a little cautious and careful on the way because the roads have very sharp turns and lots of bends. As far as the views are concerned, you would not be disappointed. We start off through Rhododendrons (national flower) pine forests and orchids can also be seen depending on the time of the year, as we descent further down riding pass (Sim Bhanjyang, Agor, Chaukhel, Bhaisidoban) to the lowlands a lot of crop farming takes place around this area. We continue riding towards Hetauda through the Mahendra highway. (Hetauda)The area is well known for its factories and concrete bazaars. The surrounding area is dominated by pine forests. Overnight in Hotel

Altitude: 535 mts Distance: 52 km

Day 06: We start off once again following the Mahendra highway, through (Gajiya, Monohari) we arrive at the Lothar bridge (33 km).
We then start riding off-road towards Sauraha. With the forests on our right and the Rapti River on to the left we follow a narrow jeep track into Sauraha. The terai offers a completely different though equally fascinating side to Nepal - consisting of an almost flat plain wedged between the Himalayas and the Indian plains. Riding on ancient bullock-cart tracks, we pass through neat mud-walled villages, vivid green paddy fields and mixed sub-tropical forests criss-crossed by numerous rivers. We ride all the way hopefully arriving in time for sunset at the hotel. The hotel lies peacefully surrounded by jungles fields and rivers away from the town, the hotel is spectacularly situated on the banks of the Rapti river. Sauraha also happens to be one of those unstoppably successful destinations at which Nepal seems to excel. Overnight in Hotel

Altitude: 295 mt. Distance: 66 km

Day 07: Waking up at the hotel is a fantastic experience and today is a free day to enjoy a full range of jungle activities in one of Asia's premier wildlife Parks
Chitwan National Park. There are a number of activities to choose from (all included in the trip cost) ranging from dug-out canoe safaris to elephant safaris in search of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros and the elusive Royal Bengal tiger, as well as over fifty species of mammals and more than four hundred species of birds. Sadly or perhaps wisely, mountain biking is not allowed in the park! Overnight in Hotel.

Day 08: After breakfast, we start riding towards Tikauli, entering the Beeshajaar Tal and Ramsen site.
This forest area has about 131 species of plants and many endangered species, such as the royal Bengal tiger, great Indian Rhinoceros, mash mugger crocodile and many other animals. The main attraction of the area are the lakes. (8km forest area) We ride through the forest going through (Devnagar, Halchok) once we leave the forest behind, the scenery changes completely, riding on small jeep tracks we have vast area of farmlands that stretches as far as it's visible, we then join the Mahendra highway and ride up to Narayanghat (32 km) and stop for refreshments. The scenery on both the sides are captivating as we ride further upto Kawasuti bazaar (30. 50km's). We then ride to a quiet spot off the highway and have lunch. After lunch we load our bikes and drive to Lumbini via (Rajahar, Kawasuti, Domkibas, Butwal, Bhairawa, Parsa. Lumbini-Home to the Sacred Garden where the Buddha was born in 623BC. In the garden are a number of temples and sites, the Ashoka pillar carries an inscription identifying the spot as Buddha's birthplace. Maya Devi (Buddha's mother) Mandir (temple) contains brick work dating back to 300 Bc, besides these places there's so much more the garden has to offer. Overnight in Hotel (152 drive)

Altitude: 165 mts Bike off Rd.: 30km Bike paved road: 30 km Drive: 132 km Total distance: 192km


Day 09: By bike we retrace our steps from Lumbini to Bhairahawa, through (Ekala, Bharbaliya, Mangalpur, Landihema).
Riding through typical Indian community villages, with haystacks and buffalo ponds in-between the wide spread fields, we ride through narrow village passages before meeting the Mahendra highway. We continue riding before stopping for lunch at Butwal (45 km), one of the Terai’s most important crossroads (1km of heavy traffic). After a heartfelt lunch, we ride along the bumpy Siddhartha Highway for 10-15 km's (uphill). Then drive to Tansen. Our overnight stop is in the town of Tansen (1440m altitude), which enjoys spectacular views over the Himalaya. Tansen is a romantic medieval hill town, perched high above the Kali Gandaki River. Tansen-Once the seat of a powerful kingdom, the hill town of Tansen (Palpa) now seems little more than a bazaar town stranded in the hills. Mul Dhoka (main gate), tall enough for elephants and their riders to pass through, and reputedly the biggest of it's kind in Nepal. Besides these places, there are many places of interest in Tansen. Overnight in Hotel

Altitude: 1440 mts Biking distance: 60 Km Total distance: 86 km

Day 10: In the morning you may wish to make the two-hour trek to the banks of the Kali Gandaki River and the ruins of the vast Ranighat Palace, originally built in 1896. We then start descending through narrow, winding streets of the old Tansen village, before meeting the Siddhartha highway.

We descent on wide paved road that's got lot of winding and sharp turns all the way down to Ramdi, then start a mild uphill towards Galyang. We stop at Galyang (48 km) for lunch then continue up to Waling(65. 50) and then load our bikes and head towards Pokhara. Along the way, weather permitting, there should be spectacular views of the 6,997m peak of Machhapuchhare, the `fishtail' mountain, and the main Annapurna range rising up to 8,091m. The area around here is also very popular for honey hunting. After the exertions of the recent cycling, the prospect of spending a day relaxing in Pokhara is very appealing. On reaching Pokhara we check into the hotel where we will be staying for the next three-nightspot. Overnight in Hotel

Altitude: 850 mts Biking: 65 kms (all paved road with mostly downhill) Driving: 60 kms Total distance: 125km (Tansen to Pokhara)


Day 11: Pokhara is set in a wide valley directly beneath the Annapurna range.
If Kathmandu and its valley are the architectural treasure of Nepal, then Pokhara is nature's equivalent. Set at only 1,000 mts amongst semi-tropical plants and with a delightfully warm climate, it is actually much closer to the main Himalayan peaks than Kathmandu. Machhapuchhare dominates the skyline especially in the clear morning air. Pokhara is a great place to relax and today you are free to enjoy the atmosphere - there is a wide choice of shops, restaurants and cafés along the lakeside to explore. For those feeling like some more energetic activities, boats can be hired on the lake or you can trek up to Sarankot (c. 4 to 6 hours round trip). Overnight in Hotel


Day 12: A combination of hiking and biking today sees us tackle a section of the ‘Royal Trek', so-named because Prince Charles once covered the route.
Initialy following the ridge line offering the superb backdrop of Annapurna IV After a 20km drive east out of Pokhara to the lake of Begnas Tal we set off on foot to Majdana (2 hours' walk up) where we will meet up with the bikes. From here we descent approximately 6 kms down to Vijayaypur river and follow the road through Mahendrapul old town of Pokhara to the hotel. For those who want to get as many miles in as possible, from the bottom there is an optional 10km of tarmac that takes us back to Pokhara. If we have sufficient time, we go visit the Tibetan refugee camp. Overnight in Hotel

Altitude: 850 mts. Paved Rd: 11km (drive up to the start of the hiking point) Hike: 8 km (off road) Bike: 10 km (Off Rd) Total Distance: 29km (Pokhara to Pokhara)


Day 13: Today we take one of the most stunning flights in the world: 30 -minutes in a 19 seater Twin Otter or a 45 seater Avro across the huge mountains.
The views will live with you for a long time. The flight departs in the early morning mountain, and the bikes return by road, saving us a painful six hour bus journey! Back in Kathmandu, you have the afternoon free to explore the shops and sights of this fascinating city. Points of particular interest include Durbar Square, location of the former Royal Palace with its intricate woodcarving and four fine towers; Pasputinath, Nepal's most important Shiva temple; and Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist Stupa in Nepal. The evening is free to explore the city's many restaurants. Overnight in Guest House

Flight duration: 25-30 mins

Day 14: Departure to Tribhuban International Airport You should enter the airport 3 hours before your flight schedule. It is 6 km car ride with our representative takes minimum 30 minutes time to get there. We hope you enjoyed once in Nepal and it is not enough so we optimist next visit with us for new program. We wish you safe and happy flight journey to next destination with putting scarf (Khata). We make sure you are not going to pay any airport take because it is already included in your flight ticket.

How fit do I need to be for this biking trip? Is this trip for me?

Long cycling days and tougher terrain (for both on- and off-road trips) require a certain degree of experience of more demanding and technical riding for the upper mustang  Biking Trip. Vehicle support may be limited. You should be very confident of your physical condition and bike-handling skills.

Will somebody come to pick me up at the Airport upon my arrival?

Yes, our airport representative will be there to greet you at the airport. S/he will be displaying an Glory Nepalsign-board. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel.

What sort of accommodation can I expect in Kathmandu, Pokhara and along the biking route?

We use standard rooms at three star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast .

Along the biking route below Upper Mustang (Kagbeni, Muktinath, Tatopani), teahouses/lodges generally provide basic clean facilities with a mattress and a quilt or blanket. We usually provide single and double rooms, or occasionally a dormitory. Dining will be around a bon fire when possible. In tea houses, food will be prepared in the kitchen which you should not enter without permission. The toilets in tea houses provide essential and basic facilities.

While in camping in Upper Mustang area, we provide the best possible camping service complete with comfortable two person tents with good mattresses. A kitchen, dining, shower, toilet tents, chairs with tables are also provided. Refer to the equipment list for items you will need to bring. We usually camp in or near a village, which allows you to buy sweets and drinks, which we do not carry with us. We provide the best possible camping service complete with comfortable two-person tents with mattresses. A kitchen, dining, shower, toilet tents, chairs with tables are also provided. Refer to the equipment list for items you will need to bring. We provide toilet paper and other essential toiletries. You will also get a small bucket of hot water each morning in your tent for a quick scrub up.

What sort of food can I expect in trekking?

Most teahouses (lodges) below Upper Mustang (Kagbeni, Muktinath, Tatopani) cook a delicious range of mostly vegetarian fare. Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, dhal bhat, bread, soups, fresh vegetables (variety depends on the season) and even some desserts like apple pies, pancakes, and some interesting attempts at custard. You will find a lot of garlic on the menu because it assists with acclimatization – eat some every day. Each day dinner and breakfast will be at a lodge you'll stay at while lunch will be taken on the way to destination.

During the camping our expert cook can prepare specially requested food if you advise. In any case, you will have similar fare to teahouses. You can eat as much as you like. If you have any special dietary requirements please advise us in advance so that we can make the necessary arrangements.

What mode of transportation do you use?

Glory Nepalis all about providing you with local insights, lifestyle as well as adventure. Depending on the nature of the travel, the transportation to and from the destination varies from domestic flights to vehicular transportation. You have the option of flying to Pokhara from where we again take a flight to Jomsom, which is the starting point of our biking trip. We provide you only those options, which enhance your local experience while allowing you to bike comfortably and efficiently. We use private tourist vehicles for sightseeing, city tours and pickups. Depending on the group size we use cars, minibus, vans or alternatively 4WD SUVs, more maneuverable in travelling along the narrow and bumpy roads of Nepal. All the vehicles are usually air-conditioned unless we are travelling in cooler areas.

While in the mountain we use vehicular transportation whereas possible. We also use porters, Yaks and Donkeys to carry the equipment and meals during the camping trip.

We use our own Fleet service for Transportation...Click to know more about our fleet service!

What is the best season for this trip?

The best time for the Upper Mustang Mountain Biking is from March to November. It is not very advisable to bike during the winter season (December, January and February)

What type of bike is required for this trip and what brands are available for hire?

Either hard-tail or full suspension mountain bikes will do fine. In some parts of the routes, you can take downhill shortcuts for which we strongly recommend full suspension bikes. (Your guide will let you know if there are any shortcuts you can take.)

All the brands we provide are properly serviced and fully functional standard hardtail rentals best suited for the trips. We provide full suspension bikes (if preferred by our clients) for an additional charge.

Trek: 3-, 4-, 6- and 8-series
Cube: Comp, LTD, CMPT, Reaction
Giant: ATX, Tralon
Other brands: Capic and V-Ket

Are hired bikes guaranteed for the trip?

Bikes are hired at the time of booking, and are included in the price. The frame size of the bike has to be matched with your height, and since there is a limited number of each size, we strongly suggest you provide us with this information well ahead. In case of any damage incurred to the bike or the equipments, the client will be liable to pay for the repair and/or replacement, depending on the nature of the damage.

What equipment and tools are included with the bike hire?

We provide a helmet, a pump, a spare tube, a water bottle and a repair kit with a rental bike.

 What additional equipment is available upon request for an additional cost?

Cycle computer and a GPS unit for USD 2 and USD 5, respectively, per day per person.

Can I bring my own bike and accessories?

You definitely can! It is highly recommended that you have your bike thoroughly serviced before coming on the trip. Spare parts are available in Kathmandu, but may not always be compatible with your bike.

Most airlines are quite used to people travelling with bikes, and if a bike is properly boxed and within the luggage allowance, it is a relatively hassle-free experience. On arrival at your destination you will be met by your leader, and you will just need a baggage trolley to take your bike as far as the transfer vehicle.

Make sure the bikes are properly packed. You may do it yourself (here's a guide or if you're not sure, you could have a local bike shop pack it for you.

We take every care to ensure your bike is well treated, but it is normal for a bike to sustain minor scratches, resulting during the daily ride as well as loading and unloading from support/transport vehicles.

What is the procedure of checking in with a bike and what luggage weight allowance do I have?

Your bike is part of your baggage allowance on the plane, details of which are shown on your flight ticket, and maximum weights are usually between 20 and 25 kgs. A boxed bike weighs around 16 kg, so you need to pack carefully. Put heavy items in your hand baggage, wear your heavy/bulky jacket when you check in. Glory Nepalwill not be liable for any excess baggage charges brought by the airline as a result of your exceeding the baggage allowance, whether you have a hire bike or take your own bike. In practice excess luggage charges are rare for those who pack sensibly, even if you are a little over the specified limit.

Few airlines impose specific standard bike carriage charges. All such charges are beyond our control, and to be paid by the client. Where we know of a bike carriage charge in advance, this will be added to the relevant trip notes. In the unlikely event of any of your luggage and or bike being misplaced or damaged while in the care of the airline, a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) must be filed with the appropriate airline on arrival. This is essential if you subsequently wish to make a claim against the airline or on your travel insurance. This must be done at the airport where your baggage arrived, or should have arrived.

Are there any bike maintenance and repairs while on the trip?

The support vehicle (where available) and the guide will carry the required repair tools and spares. We do recommend you carry some basic tools and spares (like a puncture kit and Allen keys). Our guides are also qualified mechanics and have ample experience maintaining bikes on the trips.

What cycling gear do I need?

Safety and comfort are what you're looking for here. Here's a quick list of what you'll need for the trip:

    Cycling helmet (included with the bike rent)
    Touring shoes
    Cycling gloves
    Cycling shorts (1 to 3 pair)
    Socks - wool or synthetic (2 or 3 pair)
    Leg warmers or tights for riding
    Short-sleeved shirts (2)
    Light, long-sleeved shirt for layering and sun protection
    Windcheater, rain gear, jacket and pants
    Waterproof shoe covers

It is recommended that you carry a backpack with your valuables like camera and passport. Panniers are not suitable for the trips.

Can I bring my own saddle and pedals?

Yes. All the bikes are compatible with customized bike parts. The support team accompanying the group will be able help with any bike alterations or damage to the bike along the entire trip. Please inform us in advance if you plan to bring your own saddle and pedals.

Do we need to be experienced cyclists for longer tours?

 No. The guide will carefully pace the ride to include rest and refreshment along the way. Where available, the support vehicle will accompany you and you can always hitch a ride if you need a break.

Can I charge my digital camera or other equipments on my trip?

These facilities will be available in most of the places in your hotel/lodge reception by paying some service charges. Remember to bring travel adapters!

There will be very limited charging facilities during your camping so please bring the enough spare batteries.

Are there any communication facilities during the trip?

There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls. Internet and international calls are readily available in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Can I use credit cards in the places I visit in trekking?

 In the cities, yes - to some extent. Once you are out of the cities, all you need is cash.

 How much additional money do I need per day?

It depends on your spending habits. Generally, in Kathmandu and Pokhara, you can allocate USD 20 for a lunch and a dinner. USD 7 to 10 a day will be enough to buy bottles of water, chocolates and a few drinks during the trekking.

Do I need to tip my guide and porters? How much would that be?

This is a difficult thing to gauge. We have seen everything from USD 20 to USD 1000 per person for guides and porters. Tipping is not required, but a small gesture of thanks to your guides and local porters thanks for their help. The level of the tip should reflect the level of satisfaction from and personal involvement with your guide.

Is the water fine to drink? Do I need to bring purifying tablets/filter?

In most places below Upper Mustang, bottled water is readily available. If you wish to drink normal water, you need to use purifying aid, which you need to bring with you.

During the camping we will serve boiled and purify water to drink.

Are the Glory Nepal's staff insured?

Our company insures all our staff members, including guides, cooks, Sherpas and porters. Please browse though Company Information pages to view insurance details.

What essential documents do I need to bring with me on tours?

 Here are some documents that you will need to carry with you:

    Valid Passport – must be valid for up to 6 months after you return from your tour, keep a separate photocopy.
    Travel insurance, keep a separate photocopy
    Cash and Traveller’s Cheques, keep numbers and proof of purchase separately
    Flight tickets
    Emergency contact numbers for T/C’s, banks, insurance, family contacts.

Can I add extra days to my trip?

A holiday should never be about making it to the final point quickly. Along your trek we can add days at your request with additional costs to cover guides, porters, accommodation and food.

I would you like to extend my holiday, any recommendations?

Yes, there are a plenty of options and choices to extend your holiday before or after your main trip. Please go into our trip extension page for further information.

What immunizations will I need?

No vaccinations are compulsory fro travelling in Nepal, but we do recommend you are covered for diphtheria & TB, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, *malaria, typhoid, polio and tetanus.

We also recommend:

    A dental check-up prior to travelling.
    That you know your blood group in case of emergency.

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions which might affect you on tour, you make these known to your tour leader and Glory Nepalat the time of your booking.

Entrance Fees

• All the entrance fees while sightseeing in the city.
• Guided Katmandu sightseeing tour by Car.
 All accommodation on B/B basis.
• 13% government tax where applicable.

International Flights

• International flights, visa and departure taxes
• Airport pick up and drop.

Personal Expenses

• Personal expenses such as drinks, postage, laundry

Other Expenses

• All the expenses in except mention in the include section

Domestic Airport Tax

• Domestic airport tax

Costs from unforeseen events

• Costs arising from unforeseen events outside our control

All the entrance feels for sight seeing in the city

International flights, visa and departure taxes

Tips for gratuities

Drink, Posatage, Laundry for Personal Expenses

Domestic Airport Tax