The Pokhara Enduro, now in its second year, has quickly evolved into much more than a race. It is a celebration of community, culture and the powerful connection between Nepali expatriates and their roots.

Originally planned for April 2020, the event finally made its debut last year. It marked the start of an adventure that blends the thrill of mountain biking with Pokhara’s rich heritage. Against the backdrop of the Himalayas, 56 riders from 11 countries gathered in Mahaprabhu Dham, creating a shared experience that has resonated far beyond the trails.

This year, the Pokhara Enduro has drawn 60 riders from 13 countries. The three-day event begins on November 27. Notably, there has been a rise in Nepali expatriates returning home to race—albeit in small numbers.

“Two expat Nepali riders participated last year. This time, there are five,” says Race Director Sunil Chandra Sharma. “We were aiming for a total of 100 participants, with at least 20 expat Nepalis this year. However, a sharp rise in international airfares to Nepal threw a wrench into our plans.”

For many riders, Pokhara’s rugged trails symbolise both challenge and nostalgia. One of them is Vijon Rana, a Gurkha in the British Army. Now living in the United Kingdom, his journey back to Nepal has been fuelled by a passion for mountain biking.

For participants like him, the event represents a journey back to the landscapes that shaped their identity. “Exploring Pokhara’s trails was a dream,” says Rana, who took up mountain biking during his military service. His disciplined approach was honed through national-level competitions as part of the British Army’s CORPS team. This mirrors the resilience and community spirit at the heart of Nepal’s growing cycling scene.

“I haven’t competed in any organised races in Nepal yet. A few casual rides through the Pokhara Valley have rekindled my connection to my homeland,” says Rana, who is among 12 riders racing in the Elite class. “They’ve also reignited my passion for a sport I came to love during my military service.”

Having competed globally, Rana is particularly inspired by the structured biking culture he has encountered abroad—one that prioritises community over profit through “riders for riders” initiatives.

Rana’s international experience has not only shaped his personal approach to biking but also sparked his belief in Nepal’s potential on the global stage. “Nepal’s natural beauty is unmatched,” he says. “What we need now is organised infrastructure that makes biking accessible to everyone.”

His vision aligns with that of many in the diaspora: a Nepal where lift-accessed trails, bike parks, and inclusive programmes turn the country into a world-class biking destination.

Munesh Ghale, too, sees the potential in Pokhara’s trails, which he compares to world-renowned biking destinations like Whistler and Morzine.

“With well-maintained trails and bike parks, we could attract riders from around the world,” says Ghale, who has accompanied Rana from the UK. Such developments could transform Pokhara into an adventure hub, benefiting not just tourism but also local economic growth.

For many Nepali expatriates, the growing international support for cycling infrastructure ignites thoughts about what could be possible in their homeland.

In the bustling city-state of Singapore, where urban planning and community-driven initiatives have elevated cycling from a mode of transport to a celebrated lifestyle, Lal Bahadur Ale stands as a man inspired.

Ale, a native of Syangja who has lived in Singapore for over two decades, sees the Pokhara race as the beginning of a vision for Nepal. “The Pokhara Enduro is incredible, but it’s just the start,” says last year’s Masters ‘C’ class winner.

Racing on well-maintained trails in Singapore last year has shown him what is achievable. With the right facilities, Ale believes Nepal could become a global biking hotspot, attracting riders from around the world.

“Every time a new cycling path opens overseas, I think about Nepal,” he says. “Our natural beauty deserves world-class facilities.”

Ale’s optimism is shared by many, but as he points out, large-scale progress will require not just community effort but also government support and investment in eco-tourism and infrastructure.

For Nepali expatriates, the Pokhara Enduro is a symbol of unity and possibility. It’s a reminder that, with collective effort, Nepal’s trails could rank among the world’s best. The involvement of the diaspora, combined with the passion of local riders, is already laying the foundation for this transformation.

However, realising this vision starts with nurturing local talent and the Pokhara Enduro is already taking important steps in this direction. It has introduced a Super Junior category, offering free registration for riders aged 11 to 16. This initiative, aimed at removing financial barriers, signals a commitment to developing young bikers and promoting a sustainable cycling culture.

“We need to make biking accessible,” says Rana, emphasising the high cost of equipment as a barrier for many Nepalis. The diaspora has begun addressing this by donating gear, mentoring riders and collaborating with local organisations. The Pokhara Enduro has demonstrated what is possible when communities come together. With continued investment, collaboration and a shared vision, Nepal could become a biking haven—one that celebrates its breathtaking landscapes and inspires generations to come.