Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, we’ll greet you at the airport and transfer you to Hotel Timila. Spend the day settling in, assembling your bike, and exploring the city. For those interested, an evening yoga session is available. Overnight at Hotel Timila.

Day 2: Riding the Kathmandu Valley
Today, we’ll explore some of the best mountain biking trails around the Kathmandu Valley. Ride through picturesque rice fields, vibrant local villages, and historic towns. The day is flexible, offering routes ranging from 30 to 50 kilometers with a maximum elevation gain of 800 meters. You’ll also have the option for sightseeing or yoga in the evening. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 3: Journey to Phaplu
We’ll embark on a scenic drive to Phaplu, which takes about 7–8 hours. The route follows the Sun Koshi River and offers stunning views as we ascend into the Solukhumbu region. Alternatively, if flights are available, you can opt to fly directly from Kathmandu to Phaplu. Overnight at Kyirmu Lodge, a cozy and comfortable retreat in Phaplu.

Days 4–5: Exploring Phaplu Trails
Dive into the heart of Nepal’s mountain biking scene as we explore the Ratnange Trails Center, Nepal’s first dedicated trail network. Starting at 2,400 meters, we’ll ascend to 3,200 meters, riding some of the finest trails in the country. On clear days, you’ll catch breathtaking views of Mt. Everest. Distances range from 30 to 40 kilometers daily, with an elevation gain of 1,000 meters. Shuttle options are available for those seeking maximum downhill fun. Overnights at Kyirmu Lodge.

Day 6: Chiwong Monastery and Transfer to Patale
In the morning, we’ll climb to the historic Chiwong Monastery, built in the early 20th century. After enjoying a thrilling technical downhill ride back to Phaplu, we’ll transfer by jeep to the village of Patale (3,000 meters), where we’ll spend the night surrounded by stunning Himalayan vistas. Distance: 20 kilometers, elevation gain of 500 meters.

Day 7: Climbing to Pikey Base Camp
We’ll ride along a scenic ridge towards Pikey Base Camp at 3,700 meters. The journey begins on jeep tracks and transitions to a stunning forest trail. Most of the ascent can be tackled on the bike, with the final 20 minutes requiring some carrying or pushing. Overnight in a basic teahouse, enjoying the solitude of this remote location. Distance: 20 kilometers, elevation gain of 700 meters.

Day 8: Sunrise at Pikey Peak and Epic Downhill
Start the day with a sunrise climb to Pikey Peak (4,050 meters), where you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of five 8,000-meter peaks, including Everest. After soaking in the beauty, we’ll descend over 2,500 meters on one of Nepal’s most exhilarating downhill trails. Overnight at Kyirmu Lodge in Phaplu.

Day 9: Thupten Choling Monastery
Today, we’ll ride to Thupten Choling Monastery, the largest in Solukhumbu and home to 700 monks and nuns. Immerse yourself in this peaceful setting and stay overnight at the monastery. Distance: 30 kilometers, elevation gain of 800 meters.

Day 10: Ceremony and High-Altitude Adventure
Begin the day by attending a monastery ceremony. Then, we’ll climb (3–4 hours, including some bike carrying) to reach a summit over 4,200 meters. Depending on the group’s preference, we can either continue to higher elevations or begin our descent to Jumbesi, a traditional Sherpa village. Overnight in a local guesthouse.

Day 11: Lamjura Pass and Long Descent
From Jumbesi, we’ll ascend to Lamjura Pass (3,600 meters) on a 3-hour climb. A short hike-a-bike section will bring us to a summit just under 4,000 meters, where a long and rewarding downhill awaits. We’ll end the day back at our base in Phaplu. Distance: 30 kilometers, elevation gain of 1,300 meters.

Day 12: Final Day of Riding in Phaplu
Spend your last day exploring the endless trail options around Phaplu. Whether you prefer shuttling to maximize downhill runs or a mix of climbs and descents, the day is tailored to your preferences. Distances range from 30 to 40 kilometers, with an elevation gain of 1,000 meters. Overnight at Kyirmu Lodge.

Day 13: Scenic Ride to Dhap and Return to Kathmandu
We’ll begin with a scenic drive to Dhap (3,000 meters), followed by a long descent to the Sun Koshi River at 300 meters elevation. A vehicle will be waiting to drive us back to Kathmandu, where you’ll spend the evening at Hotel Timila.

Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu
Transfer to the airport for your return flight home, leaving with unforgettable memories of your mountain biking adventure in the Himalayas.

Getting to Nepal is easy with regular international flights to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. 

Once you arrive, we’ll handle all your transfers, ensuring a seamless journey from the airport to your accommodations and adventure destinations.

This trip is designed for experienced mountain bikers who are confident tackling technical terrain and have a high level of fitness. The combination of challenging trails and high-altitude riding means preparation is key to enjoying this adventure to the fullest. 

 Technical Skills (4/5) 

Ability to navigate rocky terrain, steep descents, and tight switchbacks. Comfortable riding technical singletracks with trail obstacles. Skilled at maintaining control and balance on varied and unpredictable surfaces.

Fitness Rating (3.5/5)

Good endurance for full days of riding and some climbs, with a moderate level of physical demand.
Ability to adapt to high-altitude conditions, though there will be shuttles to reduce the strain of steep climbs.
A solid fitness foundation is important to enjoy the journey and handle the mixed terrain and varying distances.

Accommodation includes:

• 3 nights at Hotel Timila, offering modern comfort and convenience.
• 6 nights at Kyirmu Lodge, featuring cozy rooms, excellent hospitality, and delicious meals.
• 2 nights in authentic, basic local houses for a unique cultural experience.
• 1 night in a monastery, providing a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
• 1 night in a simple yet clean and comfortable guesthouse in Jumbesi.

The best months for mountain biking in the Pikey Peak region are March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn).

In spring, daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), with cool nights around 0°C (32°F). The trails are dry, and the blooming rhododendrons add to the stunning scenery, providing excellent visibility for biking.

In autumn, daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F), with freezing nights. The weather is dry, and post-monsoon clarity offers crisp air and incredible mountain views.

From June to August, the monsoon brings heavy rain, slippery trails, and poor visibility, making biking unsafe. December to February experiences harsh winter conditions with snow and freezing temperatures, making trails inaccessible.

This adventure includes full board (excluding alcohol), comfortable accommodation, and all transfers. You’ll have the support of a professional mechanic, and emergency rescue services are available for your safety. Everything is taken care of to let you focus on the ride.

Flights to Nepal, holiday insurance, and personal expenses are not included.

For your mountain biking adventure, here’s the essential kit you’ll need, keeping in mind that the guide will have repair tools and first aid supplies:

• A modern, good quality mountain bike, specifically designed to handle this difficult terrain. A minimum of 150mm travel on the front and 140mm travel on t the rear.
• Full Face Helmet: A mandatory safety item for every rider.
• Mountain bike gear: Gloves, knee and elbow pads for protection.
• Specific Mountain Bike Gear for your bike: A spare rear mech hanger, co2 cannisters and a tubeless setup (highly advised), for example.
• Appropriate riding shoes: Comfortable and suitable for mountain biking.
• Weather-appropriate clothing: Layered clothing, including a waterproof jacket and breathable fabrics, to adapt to changing conditions.
• Backpack or hydration pack: To carry water, snacks, and small essentials during rides.
• Sunscreen and lip balm: To protect against sun exposure at high altitudes.
• Personal medications: If you have any medical requirements, don’t forget your personal medications.
• Camera or phone: For capturing the stunning views and memories.
• Small personal items: Toiletries and a towel for personal comfort.
• Lightweight travel bag: For rest days when you’re not riding.

This kit ensures you’re well-prepared while keeping your load manageable for the adventure ahead.

It is possible to rent a bike whilst you are visiting.