Pokhara 01, Aug: A master plan has been prepared for the ambitious “Lake-to-Lake” bicycle track project in Pokhara Metropolitan City, Kaski, which aims to connect the city’s lakes through a cycling route. The 117-kilometer-long infrastructure will be developed with financial support of approximately one billion rupees from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and is expected to add a new dimension to tourism in Pokhara.
Mayor of Pokhara Metropolitan City, Dhanraj Acharya, expressed optimism that the cycling track will become a major tourism milestone for the city. “This will attract cycling enthusiasts from around the world to Pokhara. Tourists will be able to enjoy cycling along lakeshores while viewing the Himalayas,” he said.
Mayor Acharya also noted that the project is envisioned as a sustainable infrastructure initiative, dedicated to public health and environmental protection. A discussion on the master plan of the track—being built under the Pokhara Sustainable Tourism Development Project—was held on Friday between the ADB mission team and concerned stakeholders.
Project Manager Kavita Paudel informed that the ADB team has already inspected the proposed route. The master plan includes two primary routes—an inner and outer ring—along with several connecting trails, making up a total length of 117 kilometers.
Pokhara Metropolitan City is home to eight lakes, including Phewa, Begnas, Rupa, Dipang, Kamalpokhari, Khasté, Maidi, and Nyureni. Currently, Phewa and Begnas lakes have developed into commercial boating and market-oriented tourism areas, while a comprehensive plan is underway to expand tourism around Rupa Lake. However, other lakes still require better infrastructure and improved access roads to enhance their tourism potential.
In conclusion, the proposed 117-kilometer “Lake-to-Lake” bicycle track in Pokhara, supported by nearly one billion rupees from the Asian Development Bank, is expected to become a landmark project for sustainable tourism. By connecting the city’s eight lakes through an eco-friendly cycling route, the initiative aims to attract international cycling enthusiasts, promote environmental conservation, and improve access to lesser-known lakes. Once completed, the project is likely to boost local tourism, enhance recreational opportunities, and establish Pokhara as a leading destination for adventure and nature-based tourism in South Asia.
