Heavenly Hill Stations

This section begins in the historic hill station of Shimla. The route weaves through some of the Indian Himalaya’s most beautiful scenery - misty pine and oak forests and beautiful rhododendrons – before a long descent deposits the riders in the holy city of Rishikesh on the Ganges River where they are free to explore the numerous ashrams that the city is famous for. After practicing their yoga and meditation skills, the riders will head out towards Nepal and Kathmandu. The route takes them back up into gorgeous rolling hills along twisting roads, a region known locally as the ‘Land of the Gods’, before continuing eastward through the flat plains of Nepal’s Teri region, and its fascinating jumble of cultures and traditions.

In Lumbini, the reputed birthplace of the Buddha, riders can pedal through the tranquil grounds of numerous Buddhist temples and monasteries. The next few days take them up into the stunning Mahabharat Ranges on the Siddhartha Highway before arriving in Pokhara, famous as the starting point for the world-famous Annapurna Trek. Leaving the city, the riders will face a challenging 800m climb to Bandipur, one of the country’s most charming locales and the epicentre of Newari culture. The next day takes them to Gorkha, with its ancient palace and historic temples. The last cycling stages take the riders on some isolated rural roads and tracks, before descending into legendary Kathmandu and the end of this astonishing section.

Highlights

• Himalayan Wildlife - Wolves Snow leopards Golden eagles
• Tabo Gompa - Tibetan Buddhism's Most Important Monastery
• Ashrams In The Holy City of Rishikesh
• Drink In The Himalayan Peaks In Pokhara