On March 22, 2025, my fellow riders and I set off on an epic adventure to Nagarkot, a prime mountain biking destination just outside Kathmandu. We started early, between 7 and 8 AM, because the ride to the top takes a bit of time, and we wanted to make the most of the day ahead.

The Ride to Nagarkot: A Day with the Shuttle

Our day began with a drive from Kathmandu to the Top View Tower in Nagarkot, the perfect starting point for our biking journey. The best part? We had a shuttle to support us throughout the day. The shuttle took us from trailhead to trailhead, allowing us to focus on biking without worrying about logistics. It was a game-changer!

At each stop, we got off, unloaded our bikes, and rode our way down the mountain. Once we finished each trail, the shuttle was right there, ready to pick us up and take us to the next exciting section. This shuttle service made the whole experience smoother and gave us more time to enjoy the ride.

The Trails: A Mix of Thrills and Challenges

Nagarkot offers a variety of trails, each catering to different skill levels and types of riders. Our group tackled six major trails: Gold, Ninja, Rohini, Ranger, Eco, and Sankhu. Here's what each trail had to offer:

• Gold: This trail is the ultimate challenge for seasoned riders. It’s rugged, rocky, and unpredictable—perfect for those who love to push their limits.
  

• Ninja & Rohini: If you’re after speed and smooth riding, these are the trails for you. Flowing and fast, these two sections are perfect for riders who enjoy a fast-paced experience.
  

• Ranger: A perfect blend of smooth and rough. This trail adds a bit of obstacle fun, making it exciting for riders of all levels.
  

• Eco: The Eco trail is all about the steps—lots of them! It’s a tough one, especially for less experienced riders, but the challenge is rewarding for those who enjoy a bit of difficulty.
  

• Sankhu: This trail starts with a tricky off-camber section, but quickly turns into a smooth, flowy path that lets you relax and enjoy the ride towards the end.
  
  

The Thrills & Challenges of the Ride

Biking in Nagarkot is absolutely thrilling, but it can also be a bit risky, especially when navigating the Eco trail’s steep steps. As a group, we made sure to look out for each other, particularly for the two less experienced riders. The excitement of mastering challenging sections, like the steps on the Eco trail, was so rewarding—but safety was always our top priority.

Scenic Views & Weather: The Calm Before the Storm

While the dense forest sometimes blocked the views during our ride, the drive up to Nagarkot treated us to spectacular views of the Himalayas—on a clear day, the scenery is mind-blowing! The weather was mostly clear in the beginning, but as the day went on, the skies started to get gloomy. By the time we reached Sankhu, a light drizzle started, but it didn’t last long. Fortunately, the rain held off until we finished our ride, and we were able to head back to Kathmandu with a perfect sense of accomplishment.

Capturing the Moments

We made sure to stop at key spots to capture the thrill of the ride. On the Eco trail, we filmed the challenging steps, and on Sankhu, we stopped to capture footage of us tackling the steep, off-camber sections. These videos are not just memories—they’ll be reminders of the adrenaline and excitement of our adventure in Nagarkot.

Essential Tips for Future Riders

If you’re thinking about heading to Nagarkot for mountain biking, here are a few tips to make your experience safe and enjoyable:

• Safety Gear is a Must: Always wear protective gear—helmet, knee guards, MTB shoes, gloves, chest guard, and glasses. Safety should never be compromised.
  

• Be Prepared for the Trails: The trails in Nagarkot can be challenging, especially the Eco trail with all the steps. Make sure you have a spare tube, a multitool, and a first-aid kit in case of emergencies.
  

• Energy & Hydration: Bring along some energy bars or chocolate for a quick boost. Water is also essential, so don’t forget your bottle.
  

• Ride Smart, Ride Safe: Push your limits, but don’t overdo it. The most important thing is to enjoy the ride without taking unnecessary risks.
  
  

Final Thoughts: Nagarkot - The Ultimate Biker’s Playground

Mountain biking in Nagarkot is an unforgettable adventure. From the rocky, challenging Gold trail to the smooth, fast Ninja and Rohini trails, there’s something for every rider here. The scenic views, the thrilling rides, and the overall excitement make this a destination every mountain biking enthusiast should experience.

So, pack your gear, get ready for an epic ride, and most importantly—ride safe and enjoy every moment. Because at the end of the day, mountain biking is all about fun, adventure, and the freedom of the open trail!

Don't Forget: Ride Hard, Ride Safe!


By Dikshit Karki : Mountain Bike Rider