Insight of Panauti – Mountain Bike Tour
An
immersive cycling adventure through one of Nepal’s oldest towns and its
surrounding cultural gems.
Overview
The Insight of Panauti cycling tour is a scenic and cultural exploration
of Nepal’s fertile valleys, historic Newar settlements, and serene rural
landscapes. Over the course of 3–4 hours, you’ll pedal through time — from
ancient temples and traditional markets to peaceful orange groves and one of
the country’s earliest hydropower plants.
Itinerary
1.
Panauti – Nepal’s Timeless Town
Your adventure begins at the Panauti Bike Station, in the heart of one
of Nepal’s oldest towns, dating back to at least the 15th century. Before mounting
your bike, take in the charm of cobblestone lanes, intricate woodcarvings, and
centuries-old brick houses.
We
start with an in-depth sightseeing tour of Panauti:
- Old Market Square
– a vibrant hub where traditions still thrive.
- Indreshwor Temple
– a three-tiered masterpiece of Newar architecture.
- Tri-beni Ghat
– a sacred confluence of rivers, steeped in spiritual significance.
2.
Climb to Om Danda – Rewarded by Views
From Panauti, pedal uphill towards Om Danda, a short but invigorating
climb. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding
hills, terraced farmlands, and distant Himalayan peaks on clear days.
3.
Sunthan – Among the Orange Groves
The route meanders downhill and through the tranquil village of Sunthan,
where orange orchards stretch across the slopes. We pause here for a refreshing
water break — a moment to savor the fresh mountain air and the quiet beauty of
rural Nepal.
4.
Khopasi – Heritage and Hydropower
Continuing along a gentle trail, we arrive in Khopasi, another historic
Newar settlement. Here, you’ll visit:
- Panauti Hydropower Station – established in 1965, one of Nepal’s earliest and
still-operating hydropower facilities.
- Local village lanes, offering glimpses of daily life
and traditional craftsmanship.
5.
Return Ride via Malpi and Taukhal
Our journey circles back to Panauti through quaint villages like Malpi
and Taukhal. These serene paths, lined with terraced fields and
traditional homes, offer the perfect ending to your cycling experience.
Key
Details
- Duration:
3–4 hours
- Difficulty:
Easy
- Best Season:
Year-round
- Elevation:
1,410 m to 1,525 m
- Start/End Point:
Panauti Bike Station
Trail
Highlights
- Immersive sightseeing in one of Nepal’s most historic
towns
- Breathtaking views from Om Danda
- Tranquil ride through orange orchards in Sunthan
- Visit to one of Nepal’s oldest hydropower plants
- Blend of cultural discovery and nature-friendly cycling
