This is an easy to moderate day ride within the Kathmandu Valley rim to a lively destination south of Kathmandu. This will definitely make a good excursion with children/family who are fairly confident riding alongside traffic.
On a clear day you’ll have stunning views of the mountain range on the left and beautiful cascading hills to your right. From Kathmandu city to Bungamati, you will cover approximately 10 kms or less if you start from Jawalakhel or Ekantakuna. Your ride will begin from Ekantakuna on the Ring Road taking the Ekantakuna-Tikabhairab Road alongside traffic and a slight downward incline towards Nakhu jail. This is a straight road all the way to Bungamati. [break]
The ride will become a gradual climb once you cross the bridge and pass Nakhu jail. Keep riding on this stretch till you reach Bungamati. From Bungamati you will ride through single tracks making your way through Bungamati village and to Khokana.
Trip highlights
The entire ride itself is relatively easy. Once you reach Bungamati and the adjoining village Khokana – 10 minutes ride, there are plenty of single tracks to choose from which meanders through the lively village. At this time of the year, before the onset of monsoon, the tracks will be in perfect condition with views of stunning rice terraces and amphitheaters to enjoy as your ride along.
Bungamati and Khok-ana itself date back to the medieval era of the 16th century, so both villages boast some very impressive monuments, ancient temples and traditional village life, all within 15-20 minutes just outside of Kathmandu city. This course is comparatively lesser known than other popular bike routes and as a result sees only a few tourists.
The narrow cobbled streets in both village makes for an ideal expedition to bike or walk through as you’ll find that not many (if any) vehicles pass through. Khokana is renowned for its wood carvings, and oil pressing of mustard seeds using traditional methods.
The traditional architecture and rich culture is reminiscent of the medieval era, where women, men and children are often seen sitting in the streets or common courtyard weaving, chatting, playing and working under the sun.
Information courtesy:
socialtours, Tridevi Marg, Thamel. For details: call 4412508, or email at info@socialtours.com
Bare essentials
Day pack/hydration pack
Water bottle
Helmet
Cycling shorts/shirt or light weight clothing
Sun glasses
Face mask
Sun block
Packed lunch but you can eat locally if you wish
Bike hire
Bikes, helmets and hydro packs can be hired from various Mountain Bike shops around the valley.
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