KATHMANDU, APRIL 16
The Lower Everest Region of Nepal is set to host one of the most exciting adventure tourism events of the year-the Tour-de-Khijidemba-Pikey 2025, a four-day mountain biking festival scheduled from May 1 to May 4. The event, organized by the Okhaldhunga Tourism Development Committee and supported by the Khijidemba Rural Municipality, is designed to promote eco-tourism, community engagement, and healthy living through adventure sports.
The event will covering the scenic trails around Khijidemba, Pikey Peak, and Tholedemba Ridge-the highest hill in the Okhaldhunga District and a destination proudly listed among Nepal Government's Top 100 Tourism Destinations-the event promises panoramic vistas of Everest, Makalu, and the mid-hill landscapes.
"The 360-degree views from Pikey Peak and Tholedemba Ridge will enthrall visitors," said Ngawa Ngima Sherpa, President of the Okhaldhunga Tourism Development Committee.
The committee has previously organized a 42-km full marathon for five consecutive years. While the marathon brought some exposure to the region, Sherpa noted it did not fully showcase the area's unique advantages.
"This year, we decided to highlight the region more comprehensively through mountain biking, under the theme 'Save the Mountain. Preserve the Environment. Inspire Humanity,'" Sherpa added.
Though less frequented than Nepal's popular trekking routes, the region offers stunning Himalayan views, rich biodiversity, and vibrant cultural experiences. It is home to diverse communities including the Sherpa, Tamang, Sunuwar, and Brahmin peoples. Riders will pass through ancient monasteries, rhododendron forests, and remote villages-experiencing authentic local hospitality, the organisers said.
The four-day festival will begin on May 1 with a bus ride from Kathmandu to Khijidemba. On May 2, participants will embark on an uphill biking journey from Khijidemba (2,350 metres) to Pikey Base Camp (3,850 metres). The following day, May 3, the riders will ascend to Pikey Peak (4,065 metres) and then make a downhill return to Khijidemba. The event will conclude on May 4 with the return trip to Kathmandu.
The 74-km trail, adapted from existing trekking routes, offers sunrise views, Himalayan flora and fauna, and deep cultural immersion, said Gambu Sherpa, Chairperson of Khijidemba Rural Municipality.
Organizers have confirmed that while the event poses minimal health concerns due to the moderate elevation, a full team of first aid workers will be present throughout as a precautionary measure.
They have extended an open invitation to professional cyclists, travel photographers, and nature lovers alike, hoping to draw attention to this spectacular yet underappreciated part of Nepal.
The registration package, priced at Rs 3,500 per participant, includes round-trip transportation between Kathmandu and Khijidemba, accommodation, meals, and an official event T-shirt.
The event has already attracted significant interest, with 50 participants registered ahead of the deadline. The participants include a diverse international mix, with riders from Korea, India, and Nepal.
"We initially anticipated around 60 participants, and we're thrilled with the strong early response," Sherpa said.
For registration and further details, interested participants can contact Ngawa Ngima Sherpa at 9851166145 or Prayash Tamang at 9851032248. Inquiries can also be made through the Tourism Office in Okhaldhunga or via email at info@soraadventure.com, the organisers informed.
