Mountain Biking

One of the most exciting mode of mountain touring is mountain biking. There are plenty of dirt roads and trails to scenic destinations even close to Kathmandu. These 15 to 18 gear all terrain bikes can handle almost anything, and make climbing the hills to mountain lookouts a breeze. This sport is still a young sport in Nepal and is being more popular day by day because of the thrill and excitement involved in it. The uneven terrain of the country has attracted several Nepalis and foreigners to this sport. Today lots Nepali sport enthusiasts have taken seriously to mountain biking. Mountain bike competitions are organized yearly in Nepal in which a good number of foreigners participate in the race.

 The idea of mountain bike racing was first formed in Mann County, in California, in the early eighties. However, in 1996 it got included in the Olympic games and later on in 1998 the sport got an early into the Asian Games. The National Sports Council of Nepal officially recognized it as a sport in 1995. The first mountain biking World Cup series took place in 1991 and its nine-race circuit covered Europe and North America. Nepal has now achieved worldwide recognition as one of the best mountain biking destinations. The reason being that it is a mountainous country with diverse landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty. The numerous dirt roads and the trails that lead to scenic places inside and outside the valley have made Nepal a favourite among mountain bikers. The second reason is the gateway to many other great biking destinations such as Bhutan, Myanmar, Tibet, Sikkim and Northern Thailand. This fact has led to the growth of foreigners coming to the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal specially for biking. Kathmandu Valley offers Nepal's best mountain biking. It is small enough to become familiar with, yet large enough to get lost in. The foothills and the valley rim are the perfect size and height for challeng-ing rides, whilst not being impossibly hard work. The sport has also opened doors as a new profession for the ever eager and healthy Nepalese boys encouraging them to take jobs as mountain bike guides. For those interested in touring the valley as well as the mountainous areas, mountain biking is the best means as not every part of the country is approachable on a four wheeler. Nepalese Mountain Bikers have been improving with each year and several of the kingdom's best have competed at international events for some years and have been successful in leaving their mark. Mountain bike racing need not take place on a mountain. A traverse of terrain, from remote Everest region to city parks can be used to host the events and many world cup events have been successfully held on trails such. Mountain bikes are available for rent by the day or longer, on guided trips around the Kathmandu Valley One speed Indian bicycles are also readily available.

 Motorcycling is a fun, slightly easier way to see the sights, and can be rented for day or longer outings. A driver's license is required.