The classic mountain-biking day out from Kathmandu ends (or begins) at Dhulikhel. The full loop climbs from Kathmandu along the Araniko Highway to Dhulikhel, continues on trail and dirt road to the Namobuddha hilltop stupa, then descends through pine forest to the medieval Newari town of Panauti before looping back to Kathmandu. The total distance is around 55–70 km depending on the route variant, with most of the climbing done in the first half. Rental bikes are available in Kathmandu's Thamel district; several operators also run guided versions. The Araniko Highway section has traffic, but the offroad stretch between Namobuddha and Panauti is the reason people do this ride.