By Staff Reporter, Kathmandu, May 26 — The 16th edition of Yak Attack, the world’s highest mountain bike race, officially began today from Besi Sahar in Lamjung district, Nepal.
This international mountain biking event, held in Nepal for nearly two decades, is organized by Mountain Biking Worldwide UK in partnership with Cycle Culture Community Nepal.
The 2025 race features eight demanding stages, covering a total distance of 250 kilometers with a tough ascent of 9,000 meters.
A total of 21 riders representing eight nationalities—including the USA, UK, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Australia, Iran, Nepal, and the Indian Army—are taking on the extreme terrain of the Annapurna Circuit. The competitors face their toughest challenge as they cross Thorong La Pass, which stands at 5,416 meters above sea level.
Before starting the climb from Besi Sahar, located at 800 meters above sea level, riders will spend time acclimatizing. Their route takes them through colder climates, reaching up to 2,700 meters in altitude.
The racers will navigate difficult terrain, including river crossings, rocky paths, puddles, and steep climbs. Key checkpoints along the course include Chame, Manang, Manang Loop, Thorong Phedi, Kagbeni, Kagbeni Loop, Lubra Pass, Tatopani, and Maldhunga. The race will finish in the city of Pokhara.
Race manager Ajay Pandit Chhetri said this year’s Yak Attack will have more single-track trails than ever before. Riders must cope with extreme and changing weather conditions, from highs of 30°C to lows of -15°C, along with risks of altitude sickness, snowfall, ice, and landslides.
The event will conclude with a grand closing ceremony in Pokhara on June 2, 2025, marking another chapter in the legacy of Yak Attack, one of the toughest and most prestigious mountain bike races in the world.