Single Track Mountain Biking Adventure
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10 days
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Kathmandu/Kathmandu
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10 +Pax
The Single Track Mountain Biking Adventure in Eastern Nepal is a true expedition-style cycling journey designed for riders seeking raw exploration, technical trails, and authentic Himalayan adventure. This unique route takes you deep into the lesser-explored region of Tumlingtar and the Arun River Valley, where pristine single tracks, remote villages, and untouched landscapes create an unforgettable mountain biking experience.
The adventure begins with a scenic flight into Tumlingtar, a gateway to eastern Nepal’s rugged terrain. Upon arrival, riders assemble their bikes and prepare for the journey ahead. The surrounding region offers excellent opportunities for warm-up rides through local villages, terraced fields, and natural single-track trails that are rarely visited by outsiders.
As the expedition progresses, the route follows the dramatic course of the Arun River, descending through remote valleys and culturally rich settlements. Riders experience a dynamic mix of terrain, including flowing single tracks, forest trails, and traditional hillside paths, offering both challenge and excitement at every turn.
This journey is designed for true mountain biking enthusiasts, featuring a blend of technical ascents, thrilling descents, and long alpine rides. Support arrangements become available as the route progresses, allowing flexibility for riders during challenging sections while maintaining the spirit of adventure.
One of the highlights of this adventure is the variety of trails. Expect a combination of technical single tracks, long but manageable ascents, and exhilarating downhill sections—including two extended descents on smooth tarmac that provide a thrilling change of pace. Every day offers a new challenge, making this journey both dynamic and deeply satisfying.
One of the highlights of the trip is the combination of fast-paced downhill rides on open roads and demanding uphill climbs through remote Himalayan landscapes. The region’s natural beauty, combined with minimal tourist presence, ensures a highly authentic and immersive experience.
The Single Track Mountain Biking Adventure offers everything a serious rider seeks—remote exploration, diverse terrain, flowing single trails, and exhilarating downhill sections—all set against the stunning backdrop of eastern Nepal’s Himalayan wilderness.
Activity: Sightseeing & Mountain Biking
Trip Type: Adventure
Itinerary
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Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu – Gateway to Himalayan Adventure
Arrive in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city of Nepal, with breathtaking aerial views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks on a clear day. This scenic flight marks the beginning of an unforgettable mountain biking expedition filled with adventure, culture, and exploration.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative and driver will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in a comfortable private vehicle. After check-in, you can relax and recover from your journey.
Later, you will receive a detailed briefing about your itinerary, biking routes, safety guidelines, and daily activities, ensuring you are well-prepared for the adventure ahead.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
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Day 2
Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour – UNESCO World Heritage Exploration
After breakfast at the hotel, begin a guided cultural sightseeing tour of three of the most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley, offering deep insight into Nepal’s rich history, art, and spirituality.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Explore the historic royal palace complex of Kathmandu, once the residence of Nepal’s monarchy. The square is home to ancient temples, courtyards, and the legendary Kasthamandap, believed to be built from the timber of a single tree. This cultural hub showcases the essence of Newari architecture, ancient temples, and centuries-old civilization, including landmarks such as Seto Machhindranath Temple and the former royal palace.
Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
Visit the sacred Swayambhunath Stupa, a 2,000-year-old Buddhist monument perched atop a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley. The stupa features a striking white dome and a golden spire adorned with the all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha, symbolizing wisdom and compassion. The surrounding complex includes shrines, monasteries, and small chaityas, offering a peaceful spiritual atmosphere and panoramic city views.
Patan Durbar Square
Continue to Patan Durbar Square, located about 5 km south of Kathmandu and renowned as a center of fine arts and craftsmanship. This historic royal complex features exquisite wood and stone carvings, metal statues, pagoda-style temples, and over 1,200 monuments. Dating back to the Kirat dynasty and later developed by the Licchavi and Malla rulers, Patan reflects Nepal’s rich artistic heritage. The former royal palace also houses a beautiful museum showcasing traditional Nepali art and culture.
After a day of cultural exploration, return to your hotel.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
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Day 3
Flight to Tumlingtar – Gateway to Eastern Nepal’s Trails
Take a scenic one-hour flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar aboard a Twin Otter aircraft. Tumlingtar is located on a wide plateau above the Arun River at an elevation of around 460 meters, offering a dramatic shift in landscape and climate from the capital.
Upon arrival, you will find yourself in a warm, subtropical environment surrounded by lush green forests, banana groves, and rice paddies. The lower altitude creates a tropical atmosphere, so riders should be prepared for warmer temperatures.
After arrival, assemble and prepare your mountain bikes for the journey ahead. If time permits, enjoy an introductory ride exploring the surrounding area, where numerous small single tracks and village trails offer a perfect warm-up experience on the Tumlingtar plateau.
This is a great opportunity to experience the local environment and get familiar with the terrain before the adventure truly begins.
Overnight stay at a simple guesthouse in Tumlingtar.
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Day 4
Biking Around Tumlingtar – Ride to Khandbari Exploration
Today we set out on an exciting cycling excursion to Khandbari (1,040m), the regional headquarters of the area, located on a ridge approximately two hours’ ride from Tumlingtar on the way toward Makalu Base Camp.
The ride offers a beautiful introduction to eastern Nepal’s hillside landscapes, passing through rural settlements, forested sections, and scenic ridge-top trails. Upon reaching Khandbari, you will experience a charming hill town known for its peaceful atmosphere and well-planned streets.
If your visit coincides with Saturday, you may also witness the lively weekly local market, where villagers gather to trade goods, adding vibrant cultural color to the journey. Khandbari features a distinctive character with flag-stoned streets, whitewashed houses, and neatly maintained gardens, reflecting a blend of tradition and order.
After exploring the town and surrounding viewpoints, we retrace our route back to Tumlingtar.
Overnight stay in Tumlingtar guesthouse.
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Day 5
Biking to Kewabesi – Entering the Arun Valley Adventure
Today marks the true beginning of your expedition as you cycle approximately 25 km down the scenic Arun Valley. Leaving Tumlingtar, the trail first follows the plateau until it gradually descends about four kilometers south of town, where the terrain transitions into a thrilling downhill ride toward the Shawa River.
Cross a traditional suspension bridge, adding an exciting touch to the journey, before continuing along the beautiful Arun River corridor. The route alternates between riverside trails and slightly elevated paths, offering ever-changing views of cliffs, forests, and flowing water.
Midway through the ride, enjoy a relaxing break by the river, with an opportunity to refresh yourself in the cool waters before continuing toward your destination. The final stretch leads to Kewabesi, a wide river delta located near the confluence of the Arun and Leguwa Rivers.
At Kewabesi, you meet your support crew who will accompany and assist you for the remainder of the journey toward Dharan. This scenic riverside campsite offers a peaceful setting surrounded by raw natural beauty.
Overnight stay at campsite in Kewabesi.
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Day 6
Biking to Pakhribas – The Challenging Mountain Ascent
Today’s ride is a true test of endurance as we begin a significant ascent of approximately 1,400 meters from Kewabesi to Pakhribas, introducing you to the demanding climbs of eastern Nepal.
The morning starts with a scenic stretch of single-track trail leading toward Leguwa, where we meet our support vehicles. From this point onward, the support team remains available throughout the journey, providing assistance or transport for riders who prefer a break during the climbs.
From Leguwa, the route continues along a relatively flat dust road section, offering a brief respite before the terrain changes dramatically. At Manmaya, the real climb begins—an extended uphill ride that gradually ascends through forested hills and rural settlements.
The climb from Manmaya to Pakhribas is long but rewarding, with plenty of time allocated to pace yourself and enjoy the changing landscapes. Strong and determined riders can complete the ascent entirely on the bike, while others may choose to use the support vehicle when needed.
Upon reaching Pakhribas, enjoy the cool mountain air and peaceful surroundings of this hillside settlement.
Overnight stay at a local lodge in Pakhribas.
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Day 7
Biking to Mulghat – Thrilling Descents Through Hill Towns
Today begins with a smooth ride along a level 10 km dust road to Hile, a charming hillside town located at an altitude of around 1,850 meters. The cool mountain breeze here provides a refreshing contrast to the warmer valleys below. Hile is also home to a mix of local communities, including Tibetan settlers, adding cultural richness to the journey.
From Hile, the route transitions into an exhilarating descent along a winding mountain road toward Dhankuta (1,220m). Although the main road bypasses the town center, we take time to explore Dhankuta’s peaceful streets. Known for its clean environment, whitewashed houses, and stone-paved lanes, Dhankuta is inhabited by Rai, Limbu, and Newar communities, offering a vibrant cultural experience.
After exploring the town, continue the ride downhill through scenic terrain, enjoying fast-flowing sections and beautiful valley views. The day concludes at Mulghat, located beside the Tamur River, where we settle into a local lodge surrounded by natural tranquility.
Overnight stay at a local lodge in Mulghat.
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Day 8
Ride to Dharan & Drive to Biratnagar
After Mulghat, the route turns south, following a scenic side valley of the Tamur River toward the Chure hills, the final range of hills before the vast plains of eastern Nepal. The road gradually climbs toward Bhedetar Pass (1,460m), a beautiful ridge-top viewpoint where support assistance may be used if required.
From the pass, on clear days, you may witness spectacular Himalayan views including Mount Kanchenjunga (8,598m) and its striking neighbor Jannu (7,710m) near the India–Nepal border. The contrast is dramatic, with the endless flat Terai plains stretching far to the south.
From Bhedetar, enjoy a thrilling final descent to Dharan (370m), a vibrant city at the edge of the hills. After completing the ride, continue by road to Biratnagar, where you will spend the night in preparation for your return journey to Kathmandu.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Biratnagar.
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Day 9
Flight to Kathmandu – Return to the Capital
Early in the morning, take a scenic flight from Biratnagar to Kathmandu, offering beautiful aerial views of Nepal’s diverse landscapes.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and check in. Enjoy a well-deserved hot shower and some leisure time to relax after your incredible mountain biking adventure through eastern Nepal.
The rest of the day is free for rest, shopping, or exploring the city at your own pace.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
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Day 10
Departure from Kathmandu – Farewell to Nepal
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.
As your unforgettable mountain biking adventure comes to an end, you leave Nepal with cherished memories of thrilling rides, stunning Himalayan landscapes, and unique cultural experiences.
Our representative will ensure a smooth and timely transfer to the airport for your flight back home.
We wish you a safe journey and hope to welcome you again in Nepal.
