It all began in 2005, when Binod Acharya Chhetri, a passionate motorcycling enthusiast, traveled to Albury, Australia to visit his friend Stewie McLean. During his visit, Binod witnessed an event that would spark a dream-the Poker Run on the Harley Davidson Motorcycles. The concept was simple yet captivating: a group of riders would embark on a journey, collecting playing cards at designated pit stops, and at the end, the best poker hand would win a prize. It wasn't just about the game-it was about camaraderie, adventure, and shared passion.
Binod returned to Nepal inspired, eager to replicate the experience using Royal Enfield motorcycles and discussed it with Rabi Thapa, a close friend and business associate. But the timing wasn't right. Nepal lacked the infrastructure, clubs, and community to support such an event. So the idea was shelved-for a while.
In March 2009, Rabi met Stewie again, this time under somber circumstances, as they gathered to remember Binod, a friend who had passed away. Amid the memories and conversations, Rabi casually asked Stewie about the Poker Run. Stewie described it as a day-long ride for like-minded enthusiasts, with five pit stops where riders collected cards. The winner was the one with the best poker hand, but the real prize was the journey itself-filled with lucky draws, gift vouchers, and shared stories.
Inspired anew, Rabi, founder of Sacred Summits (P) Ltd, the first Motorcycle touring company in Nepal, along with his team and his friends under the guidance of Stewie McLean, one of founding members of the Poker Run in Albury, Australia, launched the first-ever Royal Enfield Poker Run Nepal in April 2009 to celebrate the Nepali New Year (13th April 2029). The route was a 124-kilometer ride to The Last Resort near the Tibet border. With just 14 motorcycles and 22 participants, the event was modest but full of heart. Carlsberg provided beer, Yeti Airlines sponsored lunch, and The Last Resort offered a free bungee jump for the lucky draw. Local restaurants chipped in with gift vouchers. It was a humble beginning, but the spirit was strong.
In 2010, the ride expanded to Chitwan, covering 148 kilometers. The group grew to 50 riders. After the ride, participants suggested extending the event to two nights instead of one-riding back to Kathmandu after a night of celebration was exhausting and potentially unsafe.
So in 2011, during Visit Nepal Year, the Poker Run headed to Pokhara, a breathtaking city nestled among the Annapurna and Fishtail peaks. With its serene lakes and majestic mountains, Pokhara was the perfect backdrop for a two-night event. That year, 122 riders joined the journey, and Pokhara became the permanent destination for future editions.
The event grew rapidly. By 2015, a record 425 riders signed up. But then came the devastating earthquake, and participation dipped. The following years-2016 through 2020-were marked by challenges, including the global COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the event to pause.
In 2021, after a break due to the covid pandemic, the Poker Run roared back to life with 120 riders, and since then, it has averaged 120–150 participants annually. The event has become more than just a ride-it's a tradition, a celebration, and a tribute.
Each year, riders compete for awards like Best Poker Hand, Longest Distance Rider, Senior Citizen Rider, Youngest Rider, Best Modified Enfield, Best Original Enfield Design, Most Supportive Woman Rider, Hard Luck Award, and prizes in a lucky draw.
But the most meaningful symbol is the Dead Man's Hand-two Aces and two Eights-honoring friends who have passed away, especially Binod. It's a reminder that the ride is not just about the road, but about the memories, the friendships, and the legacy they leave behind.
In 2026, Poker Run Nepal will celebrate its 16th edition, once again heading to Pokhara from April 13th to 15th to celebrate the Nepali New Year 2083 Bikram Sambat in grand style at the Waterfront Resort. This year's Charity will focus on the 200+ students of the Bhimdhunga Madhyamik Vidhalaya and will distributestationary, text books and books for the library, indoor and outdoor sports equipment as well as a Sanitary Pad disposal machine.
The journey continues, fueled by passion, remembrance, and the unbreakable bond of riders.