World’s highest altitude cycling challenge Yak Attack began (photos)

KATHMANDU: Yak Attack international mountain bike stage race being held in Nepal for two decades began from Besisahar Lamjung with the 2025 event being the 16 th edition today.

Mountain Biking Worldwide UK in collaboration with Cycle Culture Community Nepal has organised Yak Attack 2025 offering the world’s highest mountain bike race.

The 2025 edition of Yak Attack has 8 stages, covering a total of 250km with 9,000 metres of ascent.

This year 21 riders excluding 3 companions, from 8 different nationalities, pedal their mountain bikes around the Annapurna Circuit, crossing the mighty Thorong La pass at 5416 metre above sea level.

Participants from USA, UK, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Australia, Iran, Nepal and Indian Army are pedalling in the Himalayas this year in a group of four dozens. The race ends with a closing ceremony in Pokhara on June 2, 2025.

The traffic free lanes through tropical paddy fields to flowing single-track via the high Himalayas of Nepal has attracted cyclists from around the world. Cyclists from more than six dozens countries of the world have participated in Yak Attack over the years.

As the highest mountain bike race on earth, climbing to the dizzying heights of 5416 metres above sea level, the Yak Attack 2023 edition will include more single-track trails than ever before, say Ajay Pandit Chhetri, the event manager.

After getting acclimatised around the foothills in Besisahar, they start cycling from 800 metres above sea level and finish at the much colder climates of 2700 metres above sea level.

They will pedal along river crossings, puddles and gritty terrain, taking on steep climbs on loose, rocky surfaces. Riders will start to feel the first effects of altitude once at Chame and cross various challenging obstacles.

They cross 30 km to 62 km distance in a day across snowy mountains via Chame, Manang, Manang Loop, Thorong Phedi, Kagbeni, Kagbeni Loop, Lubra pass, Tatopani, and Maldhunga before they reach Pokhara to return back Kathmandu.

Yak Attack bicycle race is recognised globally as one of the toughest races on the worldwide race calendar.

Every year throws up new challenges whilst pedalling along the Yak Attack routes where temperatures from +30°C to -15°C can be encountered.

Participants have to battle against the effects of altitude and cross challenges such as steep climbs, snow fall, ice and landslide areas.

A mandatory kit of full fingered insulated gloves, waterproof and insulated footwear, face cover and Cat ¾ sunglasses and other necessary items are recommended for all participants.