Riding a bike is said to have different advantages for our physical well-being. Cycling works on our solidarity, coordination, and balance. Cycling offers joy to certain individuals. In recent years biking has become a popular hobby among youths and adults in Nepal. Kathmandu Valley has plenty of trails to bring to the table for these enthusiastic riders.
Here are some renowned and popular paths for mountain biking.
- Tarebhir
- Hattiban
- Nagarkot
- Kakani
1. Tarebhir
Tarebhir is one of the best places for both hiking and cycling. The route is advantageous. You can start your journey from Jagdol, Gokarneshwor. For the first few minutes, the way is uphill. After cycling uphill for about 10 minutes the sight you will see is breathtaking. You could take a rest while enjoying the greenery.
After that, the trail gets slightly difficult and dangerous. So make sure that you put on all your safety gear. There are huge rocks in the middle of the trail, you have to ride carefully. If you are a non-professional, you might want to walk at some parts of the trail rather than cycling to avoid accidents. It will take about 1 hour to get to the top.
Once you get to the top, you will get to witness the amazing view of Kathmandu Valley. There are a couple of restaurants at the top where you can go to get some rest and food. After that, you can cycle back from the same route.
2. Hattiban
Hattiban is certainly one of the best places to hike. But a lot of people do not know that it is as great for cycling as for hiking. It is a paradise for downhill riders. You can start your downhill journey from Hattiban Hill to Pharping.
On the way, you will find steep paths with big jumps and gaps. The view of Kathmandu Valley is perfectly splendid. The trail is surrounded by lush pine trees. However, the trail gets slippery in some parts. You have to be careful to avoid any kind of accident. You can also take a rest and get food at the Hattiban resort.
While riding down from Hattiban Resort, the path gets rough. Finally, after riding downhill for 6-7minutes you will reach the pitch road. Different events like National Downhill Championship and others are held in this place.
3. Nagarkot
Nagarkot is a famous destination for everyone. Hiking, cycling, riding, even enduros, you can do everything here. Nagarkot offers different trails that are suitable for all types of mountain bike riders, from beginners to professionals. There are countless trails that ensure an adventurous experience for all types of riders.
You can start your journey from Bhaktapur and start climbing uphill to Nagarkot View Tower. And ride downhill to Bojinee Dam afterward. You may find different technical downhill drops while cycling through this trail. The trail is not well maintained. Therefore, it gets slippery & muddy in the rainy season and dry & dusty in the winter season.
4. Kakani
Kakani is ideal for biking around Kathmandu with beautiful views and chilling vibes given by the Shivapuri National Park. the trail is easy and suitable for beginners. There are some offroad paths at some parts of the trail, some are straight, some are downhill and some are uphill. Therefore, the trail is adventurous. This trail is perfect for people who want to stay physically fit as well as have fun. The cycling journey starts from Balaju following the way to Trishuli Bazar.
Within a few minutes of crossing Balaju, you will start feeling the difference in the environment with less crowd & traffic, fresh air, and greenery. The trail passes through Shivapuri National Park. After riding for about 4 hours you will reach the Kakani. You can rest and have lunch there. The place is famous for picnics and getaways. You can see Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from here.
After that, you can come back the same way you rode or go downhill and join the way to Budhanilkantha and visit the temple.
These are some places you could go for a ride on your bike which is not so hard and extreme for beginners as well.
Cycling is not that easy and simple. You should be well prepared before going cycling. You should pack all the necessary equipment with you. Here are some essential things you should know and have before going cycling.
Things you should be well prepared for, before going cycling.
- Take the necessary amount of food and fluids with you.
- Practice cycling well for about 1 week before going on a long or rough trail ride.
- Exercise and warm up well 5 to 10 minutes before cycling.
- Carry all the necessary equipment like first-aid, sunscreen, pump or mini inflator, torchlight or headlights, compass, maps, medications, etc.
- Make sure you have proper knowledge about the route you are going on, like the trail condition, weather, directions, and so forth.
- Check and make sure your bike is in good condition. Check things like your tire pressure, brakes, gear shifter, bike seats, etc.
- Make sure you are wearing all the necessary safety gear like helmets, gloves, and knee pads to avoid injuries if you have an accident.
So, these are some of the routes that are famous for mountain biking with tips on how to get well prepared for your journey. If the article was helpful do share them with your friends. But, if you think that you are more of a hiking person than a cyclist then you can visit our website to know about mystical places to hike.
Besides these here are some FAQs that would help you even more:
Is it bad to ride mountain bikes on pavements?
Yes, you can ride mountain bikes on paved roads. Mountain bikes are made in such a way that they can be ridden on both paved and off roads.
How can I ride uphill without getting tired?
Riding uphill can be tiring. To reduce getting more tired while riding uphill, you will need to get used to it by practicing and training daily, make sure you have shifted to the right gear, and you should be well hydrated and have enough food.
Is it harder to ride a mountain bike on pavements?
Mountain bikes tend to become slower and harder to pedal on a paved road than on an offroad.
Can you lose belly fat by cycling?
Yes, you can lose belly fat by cycling but it will take some time. Cycling is considered an aerobic exercise that helps to reduce belly fat.
Can you lose thigh fat by cycling?
Cycling helps to make most of the leg muscles work. Experts say that cycling can burn around 400 calories per hour which will help you reduce thigh fat as well as your weight.