Fort Stage Ride (MTB XC)
Pedal Through History. Power Through Trails.
What is Fort Stage Ride?
The Fort Stage Ride is a cross-country mountain biking (MTB XC) event designed to challenge riders while immersing them in the rich heritage and dramatic terrain of Nepal’s Bagmati Province. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Hariharpurgadhi, Sindhuligadhi, Makwanpurgadhi Fort, this ride combines endurance, history, and the rugged beauty of Nepal’s hills.
Whether you’re a competitive cyclist or a passionate explorer, Fort Stage Ride offers a unique route that celebrates adventure, culture, and conservation.
Context and Regional Diversity
Bagmati Province is rich in religious, cultural, and geographic diversity. Stretching from the high Himalayas to the mid-hills and the Inner Madhesh, it is blessed with tremendous tourism potential. The region is home to historic forts, sacred temples, biological diversity, and vibrant cultural heritage. Yet many of these sites remain underdeveloped due to a lack of promotion, preservation, and accessible information.
The Fort Stage Ride aims to revitalize tourism, promote historic preservation, and foster adventure tourism by connecting strategic fort locations through a scenic and challenging cycling route.
The Route
The Fort Stage Ride is a circular route that begins and ends in Patan (Mangalbazar), covering a total distance of 390 kilometers over 8 days. The trail connects three historic forts — Hariharpurgadhi, Sindhuligadhi, and Makwanpurgadhi — and follows trails once used by traders, warriors, and cultural pilgrims.
Riders will experience:
- Forested climbs and panoramic ridgelines
- Downhill technical sections and riverside paths
- Historical forts and cultural heritage villages
Start/End Point: Mangalbazar, Patan (Lalitpur)
Key Forts En Route: Hariharpurgadhi, Sindhuligadhi, Makwanpurgadhi
Total Distance: 390 KM
Duration: 8 days
Best Season: December – January
Why Join the Fort Stage Ride?
- Ride Through History: Follow ancient military and trade routes.
- Low-Carbon Adventure: A part of Nepal’s green tourism movement.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience the heritage of local communities.
- Community Support: Proceeds support heritage preservation and youth sports.
- Open to All: From elite athletes to weekend riders.
What to Bring
- Mountain Bike (XC preferred)
- Helmet & safety gear
- Refillable water bottle
- Eco-kit (no single-use plastic)
- Trail snacks & basic repair kit
Extended Itinerary Snapshot ( 12 days )
December 24, 2025 – Arrival
December 25, 2025 – Preparation, bike fitting, and testing
December 26, 2025 to January 2, 2026 – Ride
January 3, 2026 – Closing and celebration
| Day | Route | KM | Remarks/Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Mangalbazar – Lubhu – Lamatar – Panauti – Namo Buddha – Mathurapati – Phulbari | 45 | |
| 02 | Phulbari – Bhakundebesi – Baluwa – Simlechour – Hayu Village | 50 | |
| 03 | Hayu – Mandanda – Bhorleni – Kotgaon – Mahadev Tar – Bandipur | 30 | Review pending |
| 04 | Bandipur – Nagi – Majuwa – Chapali – Sindhuligadhi – Anand Ashram | 44 | Review pending |
| 05 | Anand Ashram – Marin – Panchpokhari – Ghante | 75 | |
| 06 | Ghante – Hariharpurgadhi (Sunrise) | 16 | |
| 07 | Ghante – Faparbari – Furkechaur – Makwanpurgadhi | 60 | |
| 08 | Makwanpurgadhi – Tika Bhairav – Mangalbazar | 70 | |
| Total | 390 KM |
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