Racing towards a sustainable future

The Pokhara Enduro returns for its second run from Nov 27 to 29, inviting riders to celebrate community and thrill of Mahaprabhu Dham’s exhilarating trails.

PoE intro 1 — Participants pose at the main venue during the inaugural Pokhara Enduro Race in 2023. Photo: Anuj Adhikari

Earlier this month, during a visit to the site of the upcoming Pokhara Enduro Race, Sunil Chandra Sharma stood in awe.

The once-quiet Mahaprabhu Dham in the Arba Hills, where he had launched the inaugural race just 10 months earlier, transformed into a vibrant hub of energy and development.

The inaugural Pokhara Enduro Race in 2023 drew 56 riders from 11 countries. Beyond the riders’ tyre marks, the race has woven a legacy into the fabric of the local community. New resorts, infrastructure, and a surge in tourism are breathing new life into the region.

“Watching Mahaprabhu Dham evolve into a premier mountain biking venue is deeply rewarding. This event has brought far more than just competitors,” said Sharma, founder of the Pokhara Enduro.

Building on last year’s success, the 2024 edition—scheduled for November 27-29—promises even more excitement. The organisers are enhancing safety measures and streamlining logistics to improve the rider experience.

They aim to welcome 100 riders from 15 nations this time. With participants from 13 countries already registered, they are on track to reach that goal.

The transformation was possible thanks to the concerted efforts of sport, tourism, and local community engagement. It now offers visitors both challenges and charm, making it a vibrant destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Unique Experience

Chris Stott 1 — Seventy-three-year-old Australian rider Chris Stott is returning to Pokhara for the race.

Chris Stott is one of several riders returning for this year’s event. “It’s an experience like no other in the heart of Nepal,” said the 73-year-old Australian based in Singapore. He is participating along with his wife, Eevon Chia.

For those having butterflies in the stomach, Stott has some reassuring words: “The Pokhara Enduro promises a rad yet manageable ride, mixed with the magic of Nepal.”

Sharma and fellow Yak Ru co-founder and mountain biking veteran Chhimi Urken Gurung conceived the Pokhara Enduro five years ago, aiming to create a platform for both elite athletes and newcomers alike. Their inviting motto, “Come, Play and Have Fun!” perfectly embodies the spirit of the event.

Set at an altitude exceeding 4,000 metres, the Yak Ru is arguably the world’s highest enduro race. The founders sought to transition the sport from the rugged, high-altitude trails of Manang to the more accessible terrain of Pokhara while preserving all the thrill and excitement.

Its central theme revolves around three key areas: providing young local riders with exposure to international races, fostering community engagement, and boosting the local economy through sustainable tourism initiatives in the region.

The project began in 2019, bringing together a team of international trail builders and local experts. They collaborated to design routes that not only showcase Pokhara’s stunning landscapes but also cater to riders of all skill levels, striking the right balance of difficulty.

The global pandemic in 2020 halted progress. However, Sharma and his team pushed forward, and by 2023, their vision had come to life. Volunteers, local businesses, and government officials all contributed to the project’s success through their dedicated efforts and collaboration.

Sharma extended his gratitude to the riders and volunteers from the inaugural race, acknowledging the valuable feedback that helped shape the event into what it is today.

It has ignited excitement among the residents of Mahaprabhu Dham. For the local community, the Pokhara Enduro represents more than just a race; it has become a beacon of opportunity.

Sachin Karki, a resort owner in Arba, expresses his enthusiasm for the upcoming event: “The second edition of the Pokhara Enduro will firmly establish Arba on the adventure map and open up new opportunities for local businesses.”

Eco-friendly accommodations

Karki’s excitement is palpable as his bamboo cottages are now nearing completion. They showcase how the race is driving development in overlooked areas. These eco-friendly accommodations reflect the race’s impact on local infrastructure and hospitality, attracting visitors to this region and encouraging sustainable growth.

With local businesses like Karki’s resort aligning with the growing demand for adventure tourism, local authorities view the event as a crucial catalyst for transforming Arba into a sought-after destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

“It invites visitors to experience Nepal’s natural beauty while contributing to the local economy,” said Kiran Baral, the chairman of Ward No. 13. Arba Village comes under its jurisdiction. “The race’s allure lies not only in its challenging trails but also in its inclusivity.” The ward office has established a 13-member committee tasked with coordinating with the main organizers to ensure the smooth running of the event.

Arba Race Committee — Pokhara Enduro Race Director Sunil Chandra Sharma (4th from left) with PMC Ward 13 Chair Kiran Baral and other members of the race committee.

As the countdown to the 2024 Pokhara Enduro Race begins, it’s clear that the event represents far more than just an athletic challenge. It’s a celebration of community, culture, and collaboration—uniting local residents, international riders, and tourism stakeholders in a shared vision of growth and adventure.

With every rider crossing the finish line, the race continues to cement its role as a driving force for sustainable development, fostering connections that extend beyond the trail.

Inviting riders, supporters, and adventure seekers to join the event and make it a race to remember, Sharma concludes, “This race is not just about competition. It’s about building lifelong friendships and immersing yourself in the beauty of Nepal.”