A new cycling trail connecting the popular tourist destinations Ghorepani and Poon Hill has been constructed in Annapurna Rural Municipality with the aim of extending the stay of domestic and international tourists visiting the area. The project is expected to strengthen adventure tourism opportunities in one of Nepal’s most visited trekking regions.
The cycling route was officially inaugurated by Annapurna Rural Municipality Chairperson Bharat Bahadur Pun and former chairperson Dam Bahadur Pun, marking a new milestone in local tourism infrastructure development focused on diversifying visitor experiences beyond trekking.
Four-Kilometer Adventure Route Built with Local Budget
According to Ward Chairperson Ram Bahadur Khadka, the rural municipality allocated Rs 600,000 in the current fiscal year 2082/83 for the construction of the four-kilometer cycling trail. The newly developed route stretches from Poon Hill, passing through Lunglung Siddha and Laliguras Park, before connecting to Phaleghar in Ghorepani.
The initiative has been designed to encourage travelers visiting the Ghorepani–Poon Hill region to spend more time exploring the area through cycling activities, creating additional tourism products in a destination traditionally known for hiking and mountain viewing.
New Adventure Tourism Experience Amid Himalayan Landscapes
Situated at an altitude of 3,210 meters above sea level, Poon Hill is one of Nepal’s most renowned sunrise viewpoints. The new cycling route now allows visitors to experience an adventurous ride through dense rhododendron forests while enjoying panoramic Himalayan scenery.
Professional rider Anil Bishwakarma described the route as one of the most attractive cycling trails near Pokhara, noting that cyclists can now enjoy a thrilling and scenic ride while passing through forests and mountain landscapes. “The Ghorepani–Poon Hill route is one of the most attractive cycling destinations close to Pokhara. It is encouraging to see a trail developed that meets all necessary cycling standards,” he said.
Plans for Expansion into Wider Cycling Network
Former Annapurna Rural Municipality Chairperson and cycling route campaigner Dam Bahadur Pun said additional tourism infrastructure projects are being planned around the Ghorepani–Poon Hill region. He noted that a horse-riding route connecting Laliguras Park and Peribharani Lake has already been introduced as part of broader tourism development efforts. He added that feasibility studies have also been conducted for expanding cycling routes connecting Ramche Kafaldanda, Histan Tikot, Shikh, and Khibang, based on growing demand for adventure tourism activities in the region.
Local Government Prioritizes Tourism Promotion
Chairperson Bharat Bahadur Pun said the local government plans to include further budget allocations in the upcoming fiscal year to promote and expand the cycling trail network. According to him, the route presents a new tourism opportunity for visitors interested in exploring the natural beauty of Poon Hill through cycling adventures. Known for its breathtaking sunrise views, Himalayan panoramas, rhododendron forests, and scenic hill landscapes, Poon Hill continues to be a major attraction for both domestic and foreign tourists.
Key Destination Along World-Famous Annapurna Circuit
Located around 45 minutes uphill from Ghorepani, Poon Hill offers spectacular views of some of Nepal’s iconic Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna Massif, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, Manapathi, Gurja, and Putha Himal. The Annapurna Circuit Trek, globally recognized as one of the world’s most famous trekking routes, passes through Ghorepani and Poon Hill, making the newly developed cycling trail a promising addition to Nepal’s growing adventure tourism sector.
