‘Tour De Lumbini: Pedal For Peace 2026’ To Promote Nepal As Global Peace Hub

According to Megh Ale, founder of the initiative, the cycle ride will travel from Kathmandu to Lumbini. The event is expected to see participation from cyclists from Nepal and abroad, youth representatives, corporate sector members, and media professionals.

Launched in 2012, the campaign was initiated under the vision of Ale, an Ashoka Fellow, and is led by world cyclist Pushkar Shah. It seeks to amplify Lumbini’s identity as the birthplace of Gautam Buddha and promote Nepal as a “center of peace” on the global stage.

Ale highlighted Nepal’s strategic position between India and China, noting its potential role in fostering international peace dialogue. This year’s edition places a strong emphasis on youth engagement, aiming to connect physical endurance with social responsibility and civic awareness in the digital age. Local communities along the route are also expected to participate in various stages of the journey.

Speaking at a press conference, Ale stressed the growing relevance of peace initiatives amid ongoing global tensions, including conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and rising strains between the United States and Iran.

The campaign also plans to introduce the ‘Lumbini Peace Award’ in the future to honour individuals contributing to peacebuilding efforts.

Robin Regmi of the Nepal Tourism Board said such initiatives play a key role in strengthening Nepal’s international branding. He noted that increasing international participation would further enhance both the campaign’s impact and tourism promotion.

Similarly, Dilip Prakash Karki emphasized the campaign’s growing importance in a world facing rising conflicts, suggesting that Nepal and particularly Lumbini, could serve as a venue for peace dialogue among global actors.

Over the years, the ‘Tour de Lumbini: Pedal for Peace’ campaign has evolved into a symbolic movement, using bicycle journeys to advocate for peace, coexistence, and international harmony.