Tour operator
Social Tours
A Kathmandu Valley tour company founded in 2002 to link tourism with social good, running market walks, cooking classes and a Swayambhu sunset walk.
Third Rock Adventures
A Thamel-based adventure operator, travelling since 1996, whose one-day Kathmandu Valley bike tour climbs through forest and villages to 2,200 metres.
At a glance
- Type
- Adventure tour operator, valley bike tours
- Area
- Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Official site
- thirdrockadventures.com
Good to know
- Guided mountain biking
- Hotel start
- Local guide
- Trekking agency member
Why we recommend it
Third Rock Adventures is an adventure travel company with its Nepal office on Keshar Mahal Marg in Thamel. It describes itself as a travel expert since 1996, is a member of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal, and also has offices in Europe, Lhasa and Thimphu for trips to Tibet and Bhutan. Alongside its treks, it runs a one-day Kathmandu Valley biking tour that is a good way to see the countryside around the city without committing to a long trip.
The day starts after breakfast with a short briefing in Thamel, and the ride begins at around 8am, finishing by mid-afternoon, between 2pm and 3pm. There are two main route options. The first climbs to Kakani, home to Tamang communities on the valley rim, and returns via Budhanilkantha, taking five to six hours on serpentine off-road trails. The second follows the Budhanilkantha to Kapan road, with a stop at Kopan Monastery and visits to two Buddhist monasteries. The highest point on the tours is about 2,200 metres.
Along the way the rides pass temples, forest, a national park and busy local markets, and they offer views back over Kathmandu as well as a glimpse of Tamang culture and village life. The company provides mountain bikes, and a local guide leads the ride, with a team member to help at the start. Reviews quoted on the company's site describe sturdy bikes and expert, helpful guides.
The company's route through Kakani passes through Tamang villages, and the alternative route via the Kapan road includes visits to two Buddhist monasteries, so the ride doubles as a cultural tour. The tour suits reasonably fit cyclists who are comfortable on off-road trails, since the route climbs to about 2,200 metres, and travellers who want an active break from temple visits.
To book, contact the Thamel office by phone or email. Because the company also organises treks, tours and trips to Tibet and Bhutan, it can combine the bike day with a longer itinerary if you want a single operator for your whole stay. The Kakani route returns riders to their hotel at the end of the day.
Third Rock Adventures FAQs
Where is Third Rock Adventures based?
Its Nepal office is on Keshar Mahal Marg in Thamel, Kathmandu.
How long is the Kathmandu Valley bike tour?
One day, starting around 8am and finishing between 2pm and 3pm.
Which routes are offered?
Kakani and Budhanilkantha, or the Budhanilkantha to Kapan road with a stop at Kopan Monastery.
How high does the ride go?
The highest point is about 2,200 metres.
Are bikes provided?
Yes. The company supplies mountain bikes.
Is there a guide?
Yes. A local guide leads the ride.
Is it suitable for beginners?
It suits reasonably fit riders comfortable on off-road trails.
How do I book?
Call +977 9851055684 or email [email protected].