Saroj SurkhetiIntroduction
There’s something magical about seeing Nepal from the seat of a bicycle. The air feels fresher, the streets quieter, and every hill conquered feels like a small victory. Last month, a group of friends and I decided to go on an adventure that would test our endurance, spark our spirits, and leave us with memories we’d cherish forever: a cycling journey from Kathmandu to Nuwakot and then Trisuli.
This wasn’t just a casual ride. It was a journey through winding roads, green hills, historic towns, and the kind of landscapes that make you stop, gasp, and take a deep breath — even while panting uphill.
The Idea: Adventure on Two Wheels
It all started in a small café in Thamel. We were a group of eight friends, all in our twenties, talking about how we wanted to break out of our daily routine. Some of us had cycled before, some had just dabbled. But the idea was unanimous: let’s explore the country differently — on bikes, at our own pace, feeling the road beneath our wheels.
Kathmandu to Nuwakot is roughly 70 kilometers, and from Nuwakot to Trisuli, another 40 kilometers, depending on the route. It’s a mix of city streets, rural roads, and hilly terrain — a perfect challenge for a group looking for adventure.
Preparation: More Than Just Bikes
We didn’t just grab our bicycles and go. Preparation was key:
- Choosing the Right Bikes
- We opted for hybrid bikes: strong enough for rough roads but light enough for hills.
- Each of us carried a small repair kit, spare tube, and a pump.
- Packing Essentials
- Water bottles (hydration is everything!)
- Energy bars and snacks for the long ride
- Lightweight jackets and gloves (it gets chilly early morning and near the hills)
- Phones, maps, and a basic first aid kit
- Physical Preparation
- A few long rides around Kathmandu helped us get ready for the uphill challenges.
- Planning the Route
- Kathmandu → kakani road → Nuwakot
- Nuwakot → Trisuli, following the riverside road
- We also mapped out small towns where we could rest and grab food.
Day 1: Kathmandu to Nuwakot
We started at 8 AM. The streets of Kathmandu were already buzzing with life — honking cars, vendors setting up their stalls, and the faint smell of tea and fried snacks filling the morning air.
The first few kilometers were through city streets, dodging traffic and weaving between morning commuters. But as soon as we reached the outskirts, the traffic thinned, the buildings gave way to terraced hills, and we were greeted by the fresh smell of pine and earth.
The Uphill Challenge
Just as we began cycling uphill toward Kakani, our journey was interrupted before it truly even started. One of our friend’s bike chains suddenly snapped, turning excitement into uncertainty in a matter of seconds. It felt like the challenge had arrived too early, testing us before we could even settle into the ride. But thankfully, we had come prepared. With the right tools in our bags and a calm, problem-solving mindset, we gathered around, fixed the chain, and shared a few laughs along the way. That small setback reminded us that every adventure begins with unpredictability—and being ready for it makes all the difference.
Midway Break
At the top of Kakani, we finally took a well-deserved break. The cool mountain air felt refreshing after the tough uphill climb, and the views made every drop of sweat worth it. I often go cycling whenever I get some free time, so uphill rides are familiar to me. But for most of my friends, this was their very first experience cycling uphill, and it showed on their tired faces.
Their ankles and legs were aching, muscles stiff from the constant climb, yet their excitement was impossible to miss. Despite the pain, they were smiling, laughing, and talking about how proud they felt for making it to the top. It was one of those moments where exhaustion and happiness exist together—a reminder that first challenges are always the hardest, but also the most rewarding.
Arrival in Nuwakot
We arrived in Nuwakot in the late afternoon, just as the sun began to soften and paint the hills in warm golden tones. After a long day of cycling, the quiet charm of the town felt welcoming and calm. Life here moved at a slower pace, and as we rolled in, it was easy to sense that Nuwakot carried stories far older than the roads we had traveled to reach it.
Nuwakot holds a special place in Nepal’s history. It was once the capital of Nepal before Kathmandu and played a crucial role during the unification of the country under King Prithvi Narayan Shah in the 18th century. The historic Nuwakot Durbar, a seven-story palace built in traditional Malla architecture, stands as a powerful reminder of that era. Overlooking the Trishuli River, the fort and palace were strategically important for controlling trade routes between Tibet and the Kathmandu Valley.
Day 2: Nuwakot to Trisuli
After a good night’s rest and breakfast, we began the ride toward Trisuli. The route was slightly downhill in parts, making pedaling easier, but the winds by the riverside were strong, testing our balance and stamina.
Scenic Ride Along the River
The road hugged the Trisuli river, one of Nepal’s most famous rivers for rafting. The sparkling water, surrounded by lush hills and small villages, made cycling almost meditative. Occasionally, we stopped to take photos or simply breathe in the scenery.
We passed through local markets, children calling out “Namaste!”, and farmers transporting vegetables. Unlike tourist-heavy Kathmandu, this stretch felt authentic, untouched, and alive.
The Adventure Factor
Around mid-ride, we encountered another unexpected challenge when one of the bridges had partially collapsed due to recent rains. There was no way to ride across, so we lifted our bikes onto our shoulders and headed towards maize field section. What could have been a frustrating moment quickly turned into one filled with laughter and cheers, as everyone helped each other without hesitation. That’s the true spirit of adventure—the kind you only experience on two wheels, where obstacles become memories and teamwork becomes the highlight of the journey
Back To Kathmandu
By afternoon, we were all exhausted, so we decided to return to Kathmandu by bus. We placed our bicycles on the rooftop and secured them properly before starting the journey back. Some friends rested inside the bus, while I and a couple of others climbed up to the roof, enjoying refreshments and the open air as the road unfolded below us. With laughter, stories, and the wind on our faces, we ended the tour with beautiful memories—tired bodies, happy hearts, and a journey that will always remind us of the joy of riding together.
Lessons from the Ride
Cycling from Kathmandu to Nuwakot and Trisuli was more than an adventure; it was a learning experience:
- Endurance Matters – Hills are tough, but pacing yourself is key.
- Local Interaction is Priceless – Smiles, waves, and small conversations made the journey memorable.
- Preparation Is Everything – Good bikes, repair kits, and snacks save the day.
- Team Spirit – Riding in a group builds camaraderie — helping each other over hills or rough patches strengthens bonds.
- The Journey > Destination – Every uphill, every village, every roadside view contributed to the adventure, not just reaching Trisuli.
Practical Tips for Cyclists in Nepal
If you’re planning a similar adventure:
- Start Early: Roads are quieter, and mornings are cooler.
- Hydration: Carry at least 1–2 liters of water per person.
- Snacks: Energy bars, fruits, or local snacks keep you going.
- Clothing: Layered clothing works best — morning chill, afternoon heat.
- Navigation: Offline maps or a GPS app helps in rural areas.
- Respect Local Customs: Smile, greet locals with Namaste, and ask before entering private areas.
- Bike Check: Tires, brakes, and gears must be in perfect condition.
Why Cycling in Nepal is Special
Nepal’s mountains, rivers, and villages are breathtaking, but seeing them at a cyclist’s pace is different:
- You feel the terrain, the wind, and the slopes.
- You connect with the people and the culture more intimately.
- You discover hidden spots, small teahouses, and quiet temples off the usual tourist path.
- Every hill climbed and every river crossed becomes part of your personal story.
For a young traveler seeking adventure, freedom, and a connection with nature and culture, cycling in Nepal is unbeatable.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Ride
Our journey from Kathmandu to Nuwakot and Trisuli wasn’t just a cycling trip. It was a story of friendship, challenge, perseverance, and discovery. Every pedal stroke taught patience, every hill inspired resilience, and every village reminded us that adventure isn’t only about where you go — it’s about how you experience the journey.
If you ever want to explore Nepal differently, I highly recommend picking up a bike, gathering a group of friends, and setting out on an adventure like this. The roads may be tough, but the memories you make will last a lifetime.
