MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Working in advertising for over 25 years and leading Outreach, an agency group in Kathmandu, keeps my days full of deadlines, ideas, travel and constant work pressure. Weekend cycling has become my way to relax, clear my mind and enjoy life beyond work. The Kathmandu Valley is perfect for this, offering nature, culture and a sense of peace that refreshes both body and mind.
I am fortunate to live in Patan (Lalitpur), famous for its temples and living culture. Just 5 km from the city center, mountain routes open up. The scenery changes quickly with ups and downs along the roads, offering thrilling downhill stretches and quiet open fields. Ancient hilltop temples become destinations and on clear mornings, the Himalayas appear under a blue sky, reminding me how lucky we are to live here.
Every ride feels different. Some days we explore the old streets of Lalitpur, filled with temples, courtyards and traditional homes. Other days, we cycle to Kritipur, a city in the hill, with historic charm or Bhaktapur, a town that feels like stepping back in time. Occasionally, we reach Boudha Stupa with Buddha eyes, prayer flags and surroundings to provide a quiet pause often at the monastery’s café nearby.
The best part of cycling is the friends who join me. Some are childhood friends, some colleagues who became close over time and some new riders who share a love for cycling. Biswas Joshi, a school friend and fellow entrepreneur, often shares advice on work challenges as we both navigate similar pressures running mid-sized businesses.
Raju Maharjan, a senior IT professional at UNICEF Headquarters in Kathmandu, is our “Google Map”. He knows every cycling lane, hidden trail and traditional food spot across the valley. Thanks to him, our rides often end with unforgettable meals that sometimes stretch into weekend lunches. We often joke that we cycle just to eat and it is true to some extent. From Newari snacks to simple traditional dishes, good food makes every ride feel complete.
Cycling is also a special bonding time with my daughter, Lachhina. On school holidays, we ride early in the morning enjoying nature and new breakfast spots. She loves Korean and Japanese style breakfasts and some cafes now serve these alongside continental options. These rides are among my most meaningful memories.
Advertising relies on fresh ideas, clear thinking and understanding people and culture. Cycling helps me regain all of this. Whether I am riding through fields, old towns or uphill paths, my mind feels lighter. Ideas start to flow and conversations with friends become open and honest often about things beyond work, which makes the ride even more refreshing. And sometimes, we simply enjoy the quiet around us.
The valley always surprises. Weather changes, new routes appear and sometimes we take unplanned turns that lead to hidden villages or food spots. Many times, we even get lost (despite Raju’s planning) and we enjoy those moments. These surprises keep every ride exciting for us.
Here is a poem by my daughter, Lachhina, about our cycling together:
When we ride
the city becomes small behind us,
and trees and fields come close,
like they are saying hello.
Old towns smile as we pass by
their temples and streets
telling stories from long ago.
On clear mornings,
the mountains stand tall and bright,
like they are watching over us.Sometimes we stop for food
warm, tasty, simple,
the kind that makes you happy
after a long ride.The roads change all the time,
smooth, bumpy, curvy, fun.
But the best part is the people
friendly riders waving,
smiling as they go.
For me, Kathmandu Valley is not just a place to cycle. It is a place to breathe, think, connect and enjoy life while observing people and culture. It brings together nature, tradition and friendship in a way that keeps me grounded both as an advertising professional and as a person.
Special thanks to Biswas Joshi and Raju Maharjan, whose friendship and love for the valley and food make every ride richer. And to Suresh, a younger friend who sometimes joins not on a bike, but to check on us or pick us up when we are tired. These friends remind me that the best journeys are enjoyed together and they become truly meaningful when the destinations are scenic which feed the soul.
