KATHMANDU – StoryCycle and the Samriddha Sindhuli Abhiyan (Prosperous Sindhuli Campaign) have launched a feasibility study and campaign for the ‘Fort Stage Ride’, aiming to take Nepal’s historic heritage and sustainable tourism to new heights. This 390-kilometer eco-friendly cycle trail will connect 15 local levels and historic forts (Gadhi) within the Bagmati Province.
Team Leader of the campaign, Deepak Shrestha, stated that this initiative is built upon the foundation of previous intensive studies. The study primarily focuses on three core pillars:
Low-Carbon Tourism: Priority is given to reducing carbon emissions in the tourism sector by 20–30%.
Boosting Local Economy: The goal is to ensure at least 80% of tourism revenue reaches local communities, specifically benefiting homestays and young entrepreneurs.
Heritage Renaissance: A strategic plan to establish historic forts and ancient trails as premier modern tourist destinations.
Public Health and Social Wellbeing According to Deep Raja Thapa, a public health expert and member of the study team, the campaign emphasizes health alongside heritage and tourism. “This journey will motivate physical and public health,” he said. “We can showcase our permaculture, mindfulness, and history to tourists worldwide. Conducting research and travel via bicycle is the innovation that links this to social health.”
Dual Potential for Adventure Sports and Tourism Devendra Basnet, Secretary of the Nepal Cycling Association and technical lead of the campaign, noted, “This trail will highlight the dual potential of developing long-distance adventure cycling in Nepal and promoting eco-friendly adventure sports tourism.”
The Concept of a ‘Circular Trail’ This new Circular Trail concept integrates the previously studied ‘Unification Trail’ and the ‘Great Mahabharat Trail’ (stretching from Namobuddha to Sunkoshi, Sindhuli Gadhi, and Phikkal). Saurav Dhakal of StoryCycle explained, “After conducting feasibility studies of various routes in the past, we are now working to integrate those routes into this single circular path.”
The Complete Route The study journey begins at Kanibahal (Ward No. 6, Lalitpur Metropolitan City) and passes through: Lubhu – Lamatar – Panauti – Namobuddha – Baluwatar – Hayugaun – Kotgaon – Bandipur – Nagi Majuwa – Sindhuli Gadhi – Sindhulimadhi – Marin – Panchakanya Pokhari – Ghante – Hariharpurgadhi – Phaparbari – Phurkechaur – Makwanpurgadhi – Tikabhairav, finally concluding back at Kanibahal.
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