Kirtipur Circuit

Route Description for Kirtipur Circuit

The start of this ride is through urban streets in Kathmandu. If you begin from Thamel, head toward Dhalku via Sorahkhutte and continue along the main road. Start early if you want to avoid traffic. Cross the Dallu Bridge to get to the other side of the road and continue riding until you reach Kalimati Bazaar where you will pass through Kuleshwor to arrive at Balkhu, near Vayodha Hospital.

Make a left onto Dakshinkali Road. The flow of vehicles starts to slow down as you continue along this road. After riding for almost 2.0 km, you get to Chobhar Gate. Do not leave this road and continue pedaling as you meet up with a tree-lined track.

Enjoy a small break at Chobhar with a panoramic view of the whole Kathmandu Valley. On a clear day, you will have stunning mountain views. Afterward, look for the small statue of Ganesh carved into a rock and take a right once past the statue. The trail climbs up around 400 m, leading you on a gradual incline to a fork in the path. Make a left (following the sign that points you in the direction of Chobhar Gumba). From here, the trail is a mixture of single tracks, downhill, and gentle climbs.

The Chobhar Gumba will be on your right as you ride along the trail. Visit the Gumba and offer your prayers if you so choose. Once past the Gumba, you will come across a small tree on your left. Just beside the tree is a single track leading down to Panga, a beautiful settlement in Kirtipur. The descent is quite steep and at times entertains local people and their cattle. Descend the trail carefully.

Continue riding west to get to Panga Bazaar. After riding for almost 1.0 km, take a left and head south to continue along the trail. Although the path is straightforward, be sure to stick to the main trail.

After covering close to 1.7 km, you will arrive in Lanagol. Stop in at a local shop for refreshments and take the time to admire the surrounding greenery. Witness the local culture here and make friends as you interact with the locals—an excellent way to discover and experience local customs.

Leaving Lanagol behind, head east for another 2.0 km to reach Taudaha. This section of the trail is quite interesting as you work your way steeply downhill. You’ll notice a couple of junctions along the way, but you’ll want to avoid veering off the trail and keep cycling straight ahead. The last 100 m of the 2.3 km is a steep decline as you work your way down the seemingly endless stone steps.

At the bottom of the stairs, you’ll reach Taudaha, a small lake with important cultural significance, known for its rich diversity in flora and fauna. Head northeast from Taudaha taking a left turn. This last section of the trail is quite easy as you ride gradual downhills and uphills covering almost 2.5 km. Finish your ride with a good meal at one of the restaurants at Chobhar.

Insider Hints for Kirtipur Circuit

• Enjoy mountain panoramas beyond the Kathmandu Valley from a rest stop at Chobhar.
• En route to Panga, be sure to use extra caution as you traverse the steep trail downhill.
• Replenish supplies at a local shop in Lanagol.