Mountain bikers raced through the trails during a practice session at the second Pokhara Enduro Race, hearts pounding with adrenaline. Yet, in fleeting moments, the thrill of the ride gave way to a quiet sense of awe. Many riders paused—not to catch their breath, but to take in the breathtaking scenery unfolding before them.

Perched at 1,360 metres in Pokhara’s Arba Hills, Mahaprabhu Dham offered participants sweeping panoramic views of terraced fields, dense forests, and towering mountain peaks. This breathtaking landscape set the stage for the day’s events, providing a stunning introduction to the race.

The three-day event kicked off on Wednesday, with 60 riders from 13 countries competing across eight categories. Another round of practice sessions and an exciting prologue on Thursday will build up to the finale on Friday.

“This place feels like something out of a dream,” said Omani rider Hamad Hamood Al-Wadhahi, competing in the Masters ‘C’ category. “One moment you’re pushing your limits, and the next, you’re stopping to take in the scenery. It’s magical.”

The event showcased not only the challenging trails but also the warmth and hospitality of the local community, which made the experience truly unforgettable.

Hundreds of villagers from Arba Village and surrounding areas gathered along the approach roads, cheering as riders arrived. Their heartfelt reception turned the event into a jubilant celebration, seamlessly blending with the stunning landscape. Food stalls, music and other entertainment enhanced the festive atmosphere, ensuring the Pokhara Enduro was not just a race but a community celebration.

Koh Kitazawa, a participant from Japan, reflected on the experience, saying, “This is a journey into the heart of a community. The cheers of children and the smiles of villagers make every challenge on the trail worthwhile.”

The trails surrounding Mahaprabhu Dham were crafted with care by local builders in consultation with international experts, providing a challenging yet scenic course. Riders navigated dense jungles, cascading streams and rugged ridgelines.

Saisab Pradhan, a Nepali rider participating in Masters ‘C’ category, explained why the Pokhara Enduro has captured the attention and admiration of so many cyclists. “It brings together riders of all skill levels on the same trails,” he said.

“Riders can navigate challenging descents, share laughs after tough climbs and exchange experiences. Each moment deepens the bond within the mountain biking community,” the 55-year-old IT professional added. ” It’s not just a test of skill. It’s a celebration of the sport and the shared passion that unites us all.”

Mundher Al-Rawahi, another participant from Oman, shared his appreciation for the landscape: “Riding here feels surreal. The views are like paintings brought to life. The trails make you feel connected to the soul of the place.”

While all participants at the event appreciated the untamed natural beauty of Mahaprabhu Dham and its surrounding region, some international racers had mixed reactions to the trails.

“SS5 hit the mark for me—it’s the kind of technical, flowing trail we’re accustomed to racing,” remarked British rider Mark Doughty, competing in the Masters ‘C’ category. “I understand these trails have been designed with riders of different abilities in mind. But to be honest, the SS3 didn’t quite align with my style.”

Special Stage 5, designed for elite riders, features off-camber switchbacks and cascading drops that push riders to their limits, testing braking and navigation. The SS3 or Meadow Trail, carved with less experienced riders in mind, ensures inclusivity, allowing riders of all skill levels to enjoy the course.

Sweden’s Philip Fagerberg and India’s Anissa Lamare both appreciated SS5, the only pro-level segment in the six-trail course. However, they admitted that some other trails didn’t quite meet their preferences.

Fagerberg noted, “The trails here are much looser than what I’m used to racing on in Europe. I hope to find my rhythm tomorrow and bring my A-game on race day.”

Lamare commented, “These trails aren’t as challenging as some I’ve raced on, but as its slogan suggests this event is meant to ‘Come, Play and Have Fun.’ Certain sections of the course are incredibly loose. It’s easy to lose control and get washed out.”

Opinions on the trails may have varied, but there was one thing everyone agreed on: the villagers of Arba left a lasting impression. It was easy to see why. The riders were welcomed with traditional folk music and cultural performances, turning the competition into a vibrant cultural exchange. The hospitality extended by the community was as cherished as the thrills of the race itself.

“The locals are so welcoming, and the natural beauty is overwhelming,” said Al-Wadhahi. “It’s like the trails and the community work together to create something unforgettable.”

The Pokhara Enduro highlights the growing synergy between mountain biking and Nepal’s adventure tourism sector. By showcasing lesser-known destinations like Arba, the event has sparked interest among travellers seeking unique, immersive experiences that blend adventure with cultural connection.

“For first-timers, you can look forward to a vibrant community of riders and volunteers, challenging but doable trails, and efficient organization,” said Australian rider Chris Stott, who is participating for the second time in the event with his wife, Eevon Chia.

“The enthusiastic villagers and the stunning scenery—with Fishtail Mountain as the backdrop—make it all the more special. And the after-hours activities in Pokhara add another layer of colour to every day.”

“It’s about what surrounds the race—the people, the culture, and the land,” Stott added. “Arba Village reminds us why we fell in love with mountain biking in the first place.”