Bhutan tops the must-visit bucket list for all motorcycling and traveling enthusiasts. Exploring the traditions, cultural diversity, and simplicity of living in Bhutan riding on a motorcycle is a must-do for all adrenaline riders and biking aficionados. Being able to take your motorcycle and ride along mountain passes and quaint towns absorbing the tranquility and happiness will surely invoke a sense of serenity within. Bhutan as a biking destination has great treasures in its store waiting to be explored. The winding mountainous roads rising as high above, alongside clouds and steep rides down allow riders to fulfill their desire for extreme adventure.
You will be forced to leave a piece of your heart back at the narrow roads with remote green mountainous vegetation, places of spiritual reverence perched on perilous cliffs, and picturesque villages with welcoming local folks. Bhutan is at the cusp of modernism but also strived hard to maintain sovereignty and individualism along with our age-old customs, and traditions and always greet newcomers as one of our own. At every turn, you take on your bike an un-miscible adventure awaits to be explored and appreciated.
Highlights:
| TOUR OPERATOR | Big Bike Tours – Knight Adventure Tours | ||||||||||||
| ACTIVITIES | Motorcycle Rides, Camping, Cultural sightseeing, and hikes. |
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| DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION | Thimphu Capital City / Paro Internationa Aiport Please note: Air Ticket for a round trip (Bangkok to Paro and Paro to Bangkok) might be costing around USD 800-1000 |
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| DEPARTURE TIME | Please be informed, that you arrive at least one day before the tour starts at Thimphu Capital City. We recommend two days before the tour start to acclimate and avoid jet lag. | ||||||||||||
| RETURN TIME | The tour will end in Paro after finishing the trekking to the Tiger´s nest late afternoon, you can fly back the next day from Paro Internationa Aiport to your final destination. | ||||||||||||
| GEAR | We recommend bringing your gear to be the most comfortable. BUT we also offer helmets, jackets, gloves, and knee guards (European high-quality brands in many different sizes). Please be informed, that we do not offer boots and trousers due to hygienic reasons. | ||||||||||||
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Please be informed, that our tours are all-inclusive. So you can completely focus on your holiday, the adventure, the riding, and the unseen Bhutan. There are no hidden costs or other surprises – our tour prices are final. All is paid. Come ride with us – the real deal!
PARO – THIMPHU CAPITAL CITY – PHOBIJKHA – BUMTHANG –
TRONGSA – GELEPHU – PUNAKHA – PARO
(Distance: about 1,000 km / 621 miles )
Day 1. Arrive at Paro International Airport and then drive to the Thimphu Capital City (Distance 47 km (1 hr) Altitude: 2300m above sea level)
The flight into the Himalayas reveals scenic and breathtaking views of the Himalayan
Mountains of the world. If weather permits you will be able to see Mt. Everest (8848m,
29,198ft) and other Himalayan Mountain ranges. On arrival at the airport, our representatives from Big Bike Tours will greet you and drive you toward Thimphu.
Briefing on the trip:
• Traffic rules and regulations ( As per the Road Safety and Transport Authority)
• Safety Measure
• Introducing the co-bikers
After the briefing, we will be heading towards Thimphu and on the way to Thimphu visit, Tamchhog Lhakhang which is located on the opposite side of the Paro River. This temple was built by Thang Thong Gyalpo of Tibet in the 15th century.
Sightseeing Tashichho Dzong: The name means Fortress of Glorious Religion. It was built in 1641 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. The Dzong was the coronation site of the 5th King in 2008.
Bhutan Post Museum: The museum tells the story of Bhutan’s progress and development through the evolution of communications and the postal system in the country. The journey is told through anecdotes, artifacts, and the rich assortment of stamps the country has produced.
Later in the evening, you can stroll around the City.
Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Day 2. Thimphu to Phobjikha via Wangdue (Distance 131 km (4 hrs) Altitude: 1350m above sea level)
Morning sightseeing Kuenselphodrang – where the largest Buddha statue in the country is perched on the hillock, overlooking the magnificent Thimphu valley.
After sightseeing departs for Phobjikha. Leaving Thimphu the road climbs steeply through the forest of pine and come across Dochula pass (3,150m). This pass often offers panoramic views of the Himalayan Mountain ranges, especially on clear winter days. The beauty of the place is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyel Chortens, a total of 108 stupas.
Continue the ride to Phobjokha. In the mountains east of Wangdue Phodrang lies the beautiful Phobjikha valley, on the slopes of which is situated the great monastery of Gangtey, established in the 17th century. This quiet, remote valley is the winter home of black-necked cranes, which migrate from the arid plains of Tibet in the north, to pass the winter months in a milder climate.
Morning visit Black-Necked Crane Center (Grus nigricollis) that breeds on the Tibetan Plateau in summer and winter mainly in remote parts of Bhutan. As per the WWF studies in 2016, its global population is estimated to be around 11,000 cranes. Approximately 500 new areas or being misdirected by weather conditions during its migration.
Overnight stay in Phobijikha.
Day 3. Phobjikha to Bumthang via Trongsa (Distance 159 km (7 to 8 hrs) Altitude: 2600m above sea level)
After breakfast, we’ll take the same winding road for 15 km then divide towards Pele La pass (3,390m ASL) and continue towards Trongsa. In Trongsa, visit Museum: Situated strategically above the Trongsa dzong, the Ta Dzong served as the watchtower for centuries. It was built by Choeje Minjur Tempa in 1652. The Ta Dzong was renovated and converted into a museum at a cost of Nu. 97 million with funds from the Austrian government. The museum is dedicated to the coronation and centenary celebrations.
Trongsa Dzong: Trongsa Dzongkhag is located near the center of Bhutan and was considered crucial in controlling the kingdom in earlier years due to its strategic position.
Afternoon ascends towards Yotongla Pass (3425m ASL). Then descend to Bumthang valley. On the way, we will come across the Yathra Center. Hand-woven wool strips with patterns specific to the Bumthang region are called Yathra. We will make a short visit there to collect gifts for loved ones.
Overnight Bumthang.
Day 4. Bumthang Halt
Open plan
1. Firstly ride to Tang valley. (2 hrs and distance 46 km): It is one of the best-kept secrets of Bhutan. Perhaps, the least accessible of the Bumthang valleys, Tang beckons with its pristine highland beauty. Explore windswept peaks where yaks roam and ramble down verdant slopes dotted with grazing sheep. Home to the revered saint Terton Pema Lingpa, who discovered many treasures as prophesized by Guru Rimpoche, Tang is proud of its sacred shrines and spiritual heritage.
2. Ride to Membertsho (30 mins ride): Mebar Tsho or the Burning Lake is situated in the southern part of the Tang Valley. It was here at this lake that Pema Lingpa the renowned Terton,
The treasure revealer discovered several treasures. Festooned by colorful prayer flags, Mebartsho is a sacred lake that has ensnared the heart of many tourists with its astounding legend.
3. Hot stone bath.
Overnight at Bumthang.
Day 5. Morning sightseeing in Bumthang and later ride to Trongsa (Distance 79 km (3 hrs) Altitude: 1600m above sea level)
Morning visit to Jambay Lhakhang which is one of the 108 temples built by the Tibetan king
Songtsen Gampo in the 8th century on a single day, to subdue evil spirits in Bhutan. It is one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan. On the way, we will come across the Yathra Center (hand-woven wool fabrics) and make a short visit there and you can buy gifts for your loved ones. In Trongsa, we will visit Trongsa dzong, the largest fortress in Bhutan which slope down the contours of a hill it perches. It was the seat of power over central and eastern Bhutan and the vanguard of the warriors.
Overnight stay in Trongsa.
Day 6. Trongsa to Gelephu via Zhemgang. (Distance 195 km (7 to 8 hrs))
We will be starting early and heading to Zhemgang via Gelephu. The tour will take us through
warmer regions of Bhutan via the view of the black mountain range. The meandering roads
will take us through the Mangedchhu Hydro-Electric Project. The sub-alpine region is home
to many species of flora and fauna and spotting a golden langur is possible.
Zhemgang, a quaint little town is popular for its cane and bamboo products.
The ride from Zhemgang to Gelephu will be peaceful with less traffic and lush green forests.
Gelephu is known as the ideal place to witness and experience cross-border trade with India.
In the evening, we can stroll around the border town.
Overnight stay in Gelephu.
Day 7. Gelephu to Punakha via Tsirang. (Distance 213 km (6 hrs))
The ride from Gelephu to Punakha will be fairly pleasant riding through plains with wide roads and hot weather. Along the highways, we can see local ethnic women selling their organic produces. The roads will be less dramatic with fair road conditions and moderate traffic. The journey will see us ride through orange orchards in a pleasant village environment. As we near Punakha, we will be riding through the massive construction site of the Puntshangchu I and II Hydro-Electric Project is the main source of the Bhutanese economy.
Overnight stay in Punakha.
Day 8. Punakha to Paro (Distance 115 km (4 hrs))
Before heading out to Paro we will visit Punakha Dzong, which is one of the most beautiful and famous Dzong in Bhutan. It was built by Zhabdrung in 1637 and is remarkably located between the rivers of Mo (Female) and Pho (Male) chu. Later we will ride towards Paro valley, an upward journey with bushy surrounding vegetation, and after reaching Dochu la pass we will sit for a hot cup of tea and coffee to make ourselves warm.
Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 9. Hike to Tiger Nest OR Explore Paro Valley (alternative option)
Morning hike to Taktshang monastery (Tiger’s nest). This is Bhutan’s most recognizable cultural icon perched 800m/2640ft up a seemingly sheer cliff. It is believed that in the 8th century, the great tantric master Guru Rinpochoe/ Padmasambhava (second Buddha) flew on the back of a tigress to the site where the monastery now stands. It is one of the most famous sites among the tourists that visit Bhutan. If you are not a hiker person, we have an alternative option which is to explore Paro valley. It will be an open plan we can visit the places according to your interest. Evening we will get ready for a hot stone bath and relax.
Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 10. Paro (Departure)
After your breakfast in the hotel, your guide will escort you to the airport and bid farewell.
Bhutan opened its doors to the outside world in the 1960s and since then modernization has been gradually stepping in. Although Bhutan has enhanced its economic and social development in all aspects, it has also remained true to preserving the country’s rich culture and tradition. Today, Bhutan is one of the most attractive tourist destinations because of its unique culture and tradition, and pristine natural environment.
Most adventure riders also seek out the roads of Bhutan. The twists, the bends, the curves on all roads in Bhutan are incomparable to any other. What makes it so special? You will be riding your bike, literally at the edges while enjoying the vast diversity of forests, rivers, and mountains. At every stop of your ride, it holds for you to see one of the many endangered species of birds, animals found in the virgin forest of Bhutan, or a mystical fortress or temple that holds many legends. Your experience in Bhutan will be thrilling and it is certain that the more you ride in Bhutan, the more you will want to ride. Most of the motorable roads in Bhutan have very little traffic, which makes it even more adventurous for riders to enjoy the sharp narrow bends en route. Riding in Bhutan will give the riders an out-of-the-box experience, with not only highly winding motorable roads but a rich exposure to the country’s culture and tradition which are much observable.
Travel Requirements
Tourists can book a package holiday to Bhutan through both International and Bhutanese local tour operators. Information is available from travel agencies.
The Royal Government of Bhutan sets minimum selling prices for packages to Bhutan and this must be paid in US dollars before arrival in Bhutan.
Daily Tariff
The minimum tariff for tourist visiting in a group of 3 persons or more are as follows:
Tariff Total = 395 USD per day – US$ 200 per person per night halt for the country development fund and balance 195 USD for the trip
The minimum price includes:
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- All internal taxes and charges (including the royalty)
- Accommodation
- All Meals
- All travel with a licensed Bhutanese Tour Guide
- All Internal Transport
- Camping Equipment and Haulage for Trekking Tours
The rates given above are applicable per tourist per night halt in Bhutan. On the day of departure, the ‘local agents’ host obligation shall be limited to breakfast only and any extra requirements shall be payable on an actual basis.
The rates shall apply uniformly irrespective of location and the type of accommodation provided/asked for. A list of hotels and lodges approved for international tourist accommodation updated from time to time shall be issued by TCB.
Surcharges
Individual tourists and smaller groups of less than three persons shall be subject to a surcharge, over and above the minimum daily rates applicable, as follows:
Single individual US$ 40 per night
Group of 2 persons US$ 30 per person per night
The 10% agency commission payable to agents abroad shall not be deductible from the surcharge.
The surcharge will not apply to representatives of foreign travel agents on business study or promotional visits duly approved and cleared by TCB.
Visa Formalities
Other than Indian, Bangladeshis, and Maldivian nationals, all visitors to Bhutan require a visa; all visas are issued from Thimphu; visas are only issued to tourists booked with a locally licensed tour operator, directly or through a foreign travel agent. Applications for tourist visas are submitted by the tour operator. Visa clearance from Thimphu must be obtained before coming to Bhutan. Visa clearance takes at least 10 days to process. Air tickets to Bhutan cannot be purchased without visa clearance. At your point of entry, the visa will be stamped in your passport on payment of US$20, two passport photos will also be required. Visas are issued for a 15-day period; extensions can be obtained in Thimphu for Nu.510.
Delayed Arrivals
There is no charge for delays in arrival and departure because of weather conditions disrupting flights or roadblocks. The tourist must however bear the cost of food, accommodation, transportation, and other services required.
Note: INR (Indian Rupees) denominations of 500 and 1000 are not accepted in Bhutan.
Travel Tips
HEALTH: The best medical facilities are at the general hospital in Thimphu. Travelers are advised to advise to avoid untreated or un-boiled water. Altitude sickness can affect some travelers although accommodation is at around the same altitude as most ski resorts. General medicines are readily available but guests are advised to bring in their requirements for the duration of their visit. Guests should consult their doctors and arrange travel insurance before departure.
DRESS: Clothing requirements vary greatly depending on the season. Light, loose clothing is appropriate for summer days with evenings requiring a sweater or jacket. From autumn till the end of winter, warm clothes are required. Warm trousers combined with layered clothing, fleece or down-jackets, a hat, and gloves are recommended. Bring comfortable sports shoes for light touring and hiking boots for treks. When visiting dzongs, monasteries, and lhakhangs, appropriate attire is required. With nothing shorter than knee length and shoulders should be covered, ideally down to the mid-upper arm. Sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses are strongly recommended for higher elevations.
Many of the temples seek small offerings 10/20 Nu (20Nu = circa 25c) – but small notes are in short supply, if you get hold of any keep them – they are always useful.
Getting cash from the Paro airport exchange desk is a great starting point, and Indian rupees are accepted as local currency – so if you can get any rupees before your visit that can help. But you won’t be able to use cash machines and if you have US$/Euros/traveler’s cheques can be changed in the bank.
Traveling around Bhutan on the roads is slow and can be tiring. You’ll be lucky to average more than 50 kph – so the best advice is to relax and enjoy the scenery. If you are prone to travel sickness, then you might need travel sickness tablets. Don’t be surprised if it takes you longer to reach a destination than you expected.
The food can be in a variety of tastes in the capital city but after you leave the capital city it could be boring, but you won’t starve, and there is plenty for vegetarians, but you will be bored after a 10 day stay!
Souvenirs are expensive; the weekend market in Thimphu has the best prices which will typically be 20%-30% less than anywhere else, for broadly the same items.
Upon arrival, you will be met at the far side of the terminal by a guide, entry to Bhutan is pretty relaxed but it helps to have a copy of the visa details sent to you by BMT (or at least the number of the visa – which you will also need on exit).
CHECK-IN: The reporting time is two hours before the flight departure. All counters are closed 30 minutes before the scheduled departure of the flight. Check-in counters in Delhi will close 1 hour before the scheduled departure of the flights.
RECONFIRMATION: All reservations must be reconfirmed at least 72 hours before scheduled departure. Failure to reconfirm will result in the cancellation of the booking without any notice.
VALIDITY: Tickets issued against full fare are valid for one year, except as otherwise provided in the ticket.
AIRPORT/TRAVEL TAX: Airport/ travel tax is payable by all passengers before embarking on a flight.
BAGGAGE
Following registered baggage is allowed free of charge
Executive 30kg Nil
Economy 20kg Nil
Unless otherwise stated by the ticketing carrier, the free baggage allowed when traveling under concessional fares shall be the same as that of full-paying passengers.
HANDBAGS: To comply with the security regulations, passengers may carry only one hand baggage. Its sum of three dimensions (length, breadth, and height) should not exceed 100 cm and the weight should not exceed more than 5kg. The hand baggage may comprise:
- A lady’s handbag
- An overcoat or a wrap
- An umbrella or a walking stick
- A small camera and a pair of binoculars
- A reasonable amount of reading material for the flight
- For invalid, passengers, a fully collapsible invalid wheelchair and/or a pair of crutches.
All other items, such as typewriters, briefcases, overnight bags, personal radios, vanity cases, large cameras, etc will be weighted with other baggage and will be subject to payment of excess baggage charges if the total weight exceeds the free baggage allowance.
CONNECTION TIME: All passengers are advised to maintain a minimum of 24 hours of connection time to avoid misconnections due to weather, which is one of the major causes of misconnections.
Day 1. Arrive at Paro International Airport and then drive to the Thimphu Capital City (47 km)
Day 2. Thimphu to Phobjikha via Wangdue (131 km)
Day 3. Phobjikha to Bumthang via Trongsa (159 km)
Day 4. Bumthang Halt
Day 5. Bumthang toTrongsa (79 km)
Day 6. Trongsa to Zhemgang (195 km)
Day 7. Gelephu – Punakha (213 km)
Day 8. Punakha to Paro (115 km)
Day 9. Paro Halt (Day Hike to Tiger Nest)
Day 10. Paro (Departure)
2023 Tour Starts
| and on-demand |
(Travel period from June to September)
2024 Tour Starts
| and on-demand |
(Travel period from June to September)
