Mountain Biking in Solukhumbu: A New Frontier For Himalayan Adventure
5th February 2026, Kathmandu
For decades, Phaplu served primarily as a gateway for trekkers heading toward the Everest Base Camp. However, thanks to a community-led initiative, it is now home to the Ratnange Trail Center, a world-class network of 17 mountain biking trails spanning over 70 kilometers.
Mountain Biking in Solukhumbu
These trails, winding through the lush, community-managed Ratnange Forest, offer everything from flowy beginner paths to technical “root-studded” descents for experts, all set against a backdrop of some of the highest peaks on Earth.
A Legacy of “The Happy House”
At the heart of this movement is The Happy House, a historic 10-room lodge owned by the family of hospitality professional Ang Tshering Lama. Once the favorite retreat of Sir Edmund Hillary, the lodge has transitioned from a mountaineer’s haven to a hub for the global mountain biking community.
In 2020, Lama partnered with former French pro-racer Tangi Rebours to found the Phaplu Mountain Bike Club. Their mission was simple: use the sport to create year-round, sustainable livelihoods for the local Nepalese youth.
Sustainable Impact: Beyond the Climbing Season
Unlike the high-risk, two-month climbing season that many Sherpas rely on, mountain biking offers a steadier economic model.
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Local Employment: The club trains local youth as specialized guides, bike mechanics, and trail builders.
Entrepreneurship: The initiative has sparked a wave of Sherpa-run homestays, allowing travellers to experience authentic culture while providing families with consistent income.
Conservation: The trails follow traditional footpaths, and the presence of bikers helps deter illegal logging and hunting in the Ratnange Forest.
Ratnange Enduro: Putting Nepal on the Global Map
The sport’s growth is cemented by the annual Enduro Ratnange race. Now in its third season as of early 2026, the event attracts international pros and local “rippers” alike. Champions like Rajesh Magar and Nishma Shrestha have proven that Nepalese riders can compete at an elite level, inspiring a new generation to see mountain biking as a viable career path.
Quick Guide: Mountain Biking in Phaplu
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Phaplu, Solukhumbu District (9-hour drive or 30-minute flight from Kathmandu) |
| Trail Network | 70km+ across 17 distinct trails |
| Max Altitude | Routes reaching up to 4,060m (Pikey Peak area) |
| Best For | Adventure seekers, Enduro racers, and Cultural tourists |
| Economic Impact | Year-round guide work ($25/hr avg.) and community homestays |
Through the hum of tires on dirt and the hospitality of the Sherpa people, Phaplu is proving that the future of Himalayan tourism is not just about reaching the summit, it’s about the ride.
For more: Mountain Biking in Solukhumbu
