Not just a cycling event, but a community-based celebration with good causes in mind, the Kora Cycling Challenge has been gathering pace for over a decade. From a small group with a big heart to a global wave of pedalling purpose, now there’s only one thing missing… you.
It all began quietly in Kathmandu, Nepal.
In 2011, a small group of cyclists came together to ride a 50-kilometre loop around the city. There were no big banners, no cheering crowds. Just bikes, a shared cause, and a route done in a clockwise circle – a Kora, as it’s called in Tibetan culture.
In Tibetan tradition, a Kora is a sacred walk around a holy site. The spirit behind this ride was the same – circle something meaningful, move with intention, and give back. That first year, they rode to raise funds for an orphanage and a community school in Nepal.
It was simple. But powerful.
One Pedal at a Time
The ride continued the next year. And the year after that. Quietly growing, gaining more riders, more routes, and more heart.
Fast forward to today, and the Kora Cycling Challenge has become one of Nepal’s largest and most loved community events. In Kathmandu, it has grown into a cycling festival of sorts. More than 3,000 riders join in across nine routes.
And it’s not just about the cycling anymore.
Along the way, water points turn into party zones. DJs play music. Cyclists dance mid-ride. The atmosphere builds all morning, and by the end, everyone rolls into Patan for a massive celebration. It’s sweaty, happy, and full of smiles.
Across 20+ other locations in Nepal, the scene is similar. Local communities create their own versions of the ride, with a festival feel. Music, food, laughter. A modern-day Cycling Jatra.
In Nepal, Jatras are traditional street festivals – loud, colourful, deeply rooted in community. The Kora ride has slowly become a Jatra on wheels. Same spirit. But modern. And moving.
Kora: A Rite of Passage, A Shared Joy
The Kora is now a rite of passage for many young cyclists in Nepal. It’s their first long ride. Their first medal. Their first taste of doing something fun that also makes a difference.
And yes – every rider gets a medal. Some physical. Some digital. But always with pride. Whether it’s an e-certificate that lands in your inbox or a ribbon placed around your neck, it’s a reminder that you were part of something shared.
And the scale? Together, these riders clock over 200,000 kilometres in one day. Over 65,000 USD has been collected for charity. Online visibility has skyrocketed to nearly half a million views. It’s massive. But still, registration is always free. That’s part of the spirit – no barriers.
When there’s sponsorship, organisers distribute jerseys, neck bands, and medals, adding colour and unity to the ride. Whether you’re five years old or seventy-five, you’re one of thousands – all riding for fun, for community, and for a cause close to your heart.
Now, the World Is Joining
What started in Kathmandu is now going global. Quietly, steadily.
This year, riders will also take on their Kora in Canada, Australia, Singapore, India, Scotland, Denmark, and more. Some are Nepali communities abroad. Others are simply like-minded people who have been inspired by the idea.
Each ride is different, but all share the same heart – go in a loop, ride with intention, and give back.
Some rides are small. Some are big. Some are solo. But together, they make up a global wave of pedalling purpose.
Want to Ride in a Kora Challenge?
It’s simple, and there’s no time like the present…
Register your ride at www.mykorachallenge.com – from wherever you are. Ride on July 19 this year (or as close as you can), or just mark your calendar with an annual reminder for the third weekend of July.
Choose your route. Choose your distance. Choose your cause.
Whether it’s 50k or 100k, solo or with a team, you’ll be riding with thousands around the world. All for fun. All for good. All for something bigger than yourself.
A small ride from Nepal is slowly becoming the world’s gentlest cycling movement, proving the power of community, fun, and a sustainable lifestyle.
It’s a joyous celebration of heart and soul on two wheels… and you are cordially invited to take part.
