Nagarkot to Dhulikhel Ridge Cycling Route
- 3 days
- moderate
- Up to 12
- Autumn (Sep–Nov) & Spring (Mar–May)
We pedal along rural jeep tracks and forested ridges from Nagarkot down to Namo Buddha and Balthali over three days.
At a glance
Trip overview
Our three-day cycling journey connects the prominent hill stations and ridge trails east of Kathmandu valley. We designed this route for riders who want to experience rural Newari settlements, terraced agricultural hillsides, and forested tracks without committing to high-altitude alpine expeditions. The riding combines jeep tracks, paved sections, and dirt lanes.
We start with a transfer to Sankhu before mounting our bikes for the initial climb to Nagarkot at 2195 m. From this ridge, we traverse south past Banepa and Dhulikhel towards the sacred monastery site of Namo Buddha, finishing our pedals in the agricultural hamlet of Balthali before returning to Kathmandu.
While classified as an easy tour, participants should be comfortable riding off-road on uneven surfaces and handling short, steep climbs. We provide experienced cycling guides, support vehicles where necessary, and quality mountain bikes so our riders can focus entirely on the trail and the surrounding countryside.
Why this trek
Trip highlights
Nagarkot Sunrise
We watch the morning light hit the high Himalayan peaks from our vantage point on the Nagarkot ridge.
Namo Buddha Monastery
We visit the hilltop Buddhist monastery and sacred pilgrimage site associated with ancient regional legends.
Balthali Valley Trails
We pedal through quiet farming settlements and dense forests tucked behind the Panauti hills.
Rural Newari Villages
We pass through traditional communities like Nala and Banepa, observing local architecture and daily rural life.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Kathmandu to Nagarkot via Sankhu
Meals: B
Day 1
Kathmandu to Nagarkot via Sankhu
Meals: B
We depart Kathmandu by private vehicle for the drive to Sankhu, where we assemble our bikes and check our gear. Today's riding starts with a steady climb along a jeep track that ascends through dense forests and terraced fields toward the ridge top.
We finish our 3-hour ride at Nagarkot, situated at 2195 m, in time to view the sunset over the northern Himalayan horizon. We check into our hotel for dinner and rest.
Day 2
Nagarkot to Namo Buddha via Dhulikhel
Meals: B / L / D
Day 2
Nagarkot to Namo Buddha via Dhulikhel
Meals: B / L / D
Today we ride for 5 to 6 hours along undulating trails that cut through rural settlements, passing through Nala and Banepa. The track involves a series of short climbs and descents through tropical vegetation and hilly woodlands.
We stop in Dhulikhel for lunch before continuing our uphill climb through lush forests to reach the sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site of Namo Buddha. We spend the evening exploring the monastery surroundings.
Day 3
Namo Buddha to Balthali and Kathmandu
Meals: B
Day 3
Namo Buddha to Balthali and Kathmandu
Meals: B
We roll out on mostly paved, flat routes leading us toward the traditional farming village of Balthali, known for its ancient architecture and surrounding green rice terraces. After exploring the village and stopping for lunch, we continue our ride down to Khopasi.
At Khopasi, we load our bikes onto our private support vehicle and drive back to Kathmandu to conclude the tour.
Inclusions
What’s included
Included
- All ground transportation by private vehicle
- Expert cycling guide with support kit
- Professional mountain bikes and safety helmets
- Accommodation with breakfast and dinner in Nagarkot and Namo Buddha
- Lunches during the tour days
- All government taxes and service charges
Not included
- Personal expenses and bar bills
- Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu
- Accidental damages to mountain bike caused by rider fault
- Tips for cycling guide and driver
Before you go
Good to know
Riding conditions
The route combines rough jeep tracks, dirt trails, and paved village roads. Riders should expect loose gravel, occasional mud depending on recent weather, and sustained gradients on both ascents and descents.
Fitness expectations
This tour is suitable for cyclists with good baseline cardiovascular fitness who have experience riding off-road. Daily riding lasts between 3 to 6 hours with moderate elevation changes.
Accommodation on tour
We stay in local hotels and lodges in Nagarkot and Namo Buddha, offering twin-share rooms with attached or shared standard facilities. Meals are provided as per the itinerary.
Altitude considerations
The highest point reached on this tour is 2195 m at Nagarkot. While this elevation does not trigger acute mountain sickness, staying hydrated and pacing yourself on the climbs remains important.
Route
Route overview
Altitude
Altitude profile
Pack list
What to pack
Cycling jersey and shortsEssential
Clothing
Padded shorts are recommended for comfort on saddle.
Windproof jacketEssential
Clothing
Useful for early morning starts at Nagarkot.
Cycling glovesEssential
Clothing
Improves grip on rough jeep tracks.
Sunscreen and sunglassesEssential
Safety
Protection against high-altitude UV exposure.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Camping
Keep hydrated during daily rides.
Personal first-aid items
Safety
Basic blister plasters and personal medications.
DaypackEssential
Camping
Small pack for layers and water while riding.
Passport and insurance detailsEssential
Documents
Keep copies stored securely.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
What kind of bikes do we use on the tour?
We provide professional mountain bikes equipped with front suspension and safety helmets, maintained by our support team.
How difficult is the riding terrain?
The route features a mix of dirt jeep tracks, paved village lanes, and some rocky sections with moderate uphills and downhills.
Can beginners join this cycling tour?
Yes, provided you have basic off-road riding experience and sufficient fitness to cycle for 3 to 6 hours a day.
Where do we stay during the tour?
We accommodate you in standard tourist-class hotels and lodges in Nagarkot and Namo Buddha.
What gear should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable cycling clothes, padded shorts, a windbreaker, sunscreen, a personal water bottle, and a small daypack.
Is support vehicle backup available?
Yes, our private support vehicle accompanies the group along accessible road points for logistics and transfers.
Still have a question? Message us and our trip planner will reply within a working day.
Book your trip
Pick any start date on the calendar. We block the trip out over 3 days and confirm the plan with you before payment.
Start dateTrip runs
Ready to book Nagarkot to Dhulikhel Ridge Cycling Route?
Talk to a Himalaya Treks planner about departure dates, group discounts, or a customised private departure.