Over the past few months, while running and cycling around Swayambhu, Kathmandu, I have noticed something truly inspiring. More and more women, especially those over 40 and even 50 years old, are riding mountain bikes together.
Almost every morning, I see groups of women cycling through the valley. They greet others with smiles, wait for friends at meeting points, and enjoy every ride together. Their energy is contagious. What impressed me most was seeing some of these women confidently climb hills that I find challenging. It made me realize how much stamina and confidence they have built through cycling.
My curiosity grew when I learned about free mountain bike training programs for women organized by KMC Ward 15. Many participants whom I know personally from my neighbourhood had never ridden a bicycle before. Today, they ride confidently through Kathmandu roads, learning gear shifting, uphill techniques, safety skills, and exploring new trails.
Photo source: Swoyambhu Dallu cycle pucha
One of my aunts is the youngest member of a cycling group (Swoyambhu Dallu cycle pucha) . She is almost 40 years old, while most of the other members are over 50. What began as a cycling club has changed into a family. They support one another, travel together, and explore hidden trails around Kathmandu that many of us were unaware of. In a way, they also encourage mountain biking tourism by highlighting lesser-known areas of the valley.
One story particularly stayed with me. I watched a video of a woman in her 50s who wanted to learn to cycle, but her husband initially did not support her idea. Determined to pursue her dream, she secretly bought a bicycle and started learning. Today, she rides confidently, and her husband is proud and happy to see her enjoying mountain biking. Stories like hers show how much confidence, freedom, and independence cycling can bring. Her story is posted here: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1517336596417379
I have also been following two Facebook pages that actively train women in mountain biking and organize regular group rides. It has been inspiring to watch their journey and see how many women have gained confidence through these programs. I have shared the links below for anyone interested in learning more about mountain biking or encouraging friends and family members to get involved.
- Swoyambhu Dallu cycle pucha
- F & F Cycling Group
Today, many of these women use bicycles for daily activities, whether it’s commuting, visiting friends, or buying vegetables. Cycling has become a lifestyle rather than just a hobby. I hope this movement continues to grow across Nepal. A healthier population, stronger communities, and more people enjoying the outdoors can only benefit our country.
These women have shown us that it is never too late to learn something new, stay active, and enjoy life. Their stories inspired me so much that I felt compelled to write this short blog.
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Follow me at Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gowithsujan/ (Sujan Maharjan)
Thank you for taking the time to read my blog.
Almost every morning, I see groups of women cycling through the valley. They greet others with smiles, wait for friends at meeting points, and enjoy every ride together. Their energy is contagious. What impressed me most was seeing some of these women confidently climb hills that I find challenging. It made me realize how much stamina and confidence they have built through cycling.
My curiosity grew when I learned about free mountain bike training programs for women organized by KMC Ward 15. Many participants whom I know personally from my neighbourhood had never ridden a bicycle before. Today, they ride confidently through Kathmandu roads, learning gear shifting, uphill techniques, safety skills, and exploring new trails.
Photo source: Swoyambhu Dallu cycle pucha
One of my aunts is the youngest member of a cycling group (Swoyambhu Dallu cycle pucha) . She is almost 40 years old, while most of the other members are over 50. What began as a cycling club has changed into a family. They support one another, travel together, and explore hidden trails around Kathmandu that many of us were unaware of. In a way, they also encourage mountain biking tourism by highlighting lesser-known areas of the valley.
One story particularly stayed with me. I watched a video of a woman in her 50s who wanted to learn to cycle, but her husband initially did not support her idea. Determined to pursue her dream, she secretly bought a bicycle and started learning. Today, she rides confidently, and her husband is proud and happy to see her enjoying mountain biking. Stories like hers show how much confidence, freedom, and independence cycling can bring. Her story is posted here: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1517336596417379
I have also been following two Facebook pages that actively train women in mountain biking and organize regular group rides. It has been inspiring to watch their journey and see how many women have gained confidence through these programs. I have shared the links below for anyone interested in learning more about mountain biking or encouraging friends and family members to get involved.
- Swoyambhu Dallu cycle pucha
- F & F Cycling Group
Today, many of these women use bicycles for daily activities, whether it’s commuting, visiting friends, or buying vegetables. Cycling has become a lifestyle rather than just a hobby. I hope this movement continues to grow across Nepal. A healthier population, stronger communities, and more people enjoying the outdoors can only benefit our country.
These women have shown us that it is never too late to learn something new, stay active, and enjoy life. Their stories inspired me so much that I felt compelled to write this short blog.
—-
Follow me at Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gowithsujan/ (Sujan Maharjan)
Thank you for taking the time to read my blog.
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