Ride into Happiness: Discover Bhutan on Two Wheels – The Ultimate Motorcycle Adventure
For every motorcycling enthusiast and travel lover, Bhutan is a dream destination that promises unforgettable experiences. Riding through this magical kingdom on a motorcycle lets you dive deep into its rich traditions, vibrant culture, and the peaceful simplicity of life here. If you’re someone who craves adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and a touch of serenity, Bhutan is the perfect place for you.
Imagine cruising along winding mountain roads, climbing high into the clouds, and descending through lush valleys. The thrill of riding through such dramatic terrain is unmatched. Bhutan’s roads are not just routes; they are gateways to adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty. Every twist and turn brings something new—remote villages, ancient monasteries perched on cliffs, and friendly locals who welcome you with warm smiles.
What makes Bhutan truly special is its unique balance of tradition and modernity. While the world races forward, Bhutan has carefully preserved its culture, traditions, and natural beauty. It’s a place where you can disconnect from the chaos of everyday life and reconnect with yourself. The happiness and peace you’ll feel here are unlike anything else.
As you ride through Bhutan, you’ll discover hidden treasures at every corner—narrow roads surrounded by green mountains, spiritual sites that inspire awe, and charming villages that feel like stepping back in time. The country’s commitment to sustainability and preserving its heritage makes it even more special.
For motorcyclists, Bhutan is not just a destination; it’s an experience that stays with you forever. The combination of thrilling rides, stunning scenery, and the warmth of its people will leave you with memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
So, if you’re looking for an adventure that’s both exciting and soul-soothing, Bhutan is calling. Pack your gear, hop on your bike, and get ready to explore a land that will captivate your heart and spirit. Bhutan isn’t just a ride—it’s a journey into happiness, adventure, and the beauty of life.
Your adventure begins as you fly into Paro, surrounded by the breathtaking views of the Himalayan Mountains. If the weather is clear, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Everest (8,848 meters) and other towering peaks. Upon arrival, our team from Big Bike Tours will greet you and drive you to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Along the way, enjoy a briefing on the trip, visit the historic Tamchhog Lhakhang, and explore Thimphu’s iconic landmarks.
Highlights of Your Day
- Scenic Flight into Paro
- Experience: Enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas during your flight into Paro. If the weather permits, you’ll see Mount Everest and other majestic peaks.
- Significance: This flight sets the tone for your adventure, offering a glimpse of the natural beauty that awaits.
- Welcome & Briefing
- Experience: Meet our team at the airport and receive a briefing on the trip, including traffic rules, safety measures, and an introduction to your fellow bikers.
- Significance: This ensures you’re well-prepared and ready for the adventure ahead.
- Visit Tamchhog Lhakhang
- Experience: On the way to Thimphu, stop at Tamchhog Lhakhang, a 15th-century temple built by Thang Thong Gyalpo of Tibet. This historic site is located on the opposite side of the Paro River.
- Significance: This temple is a symbol of Bhutan’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
- Explore Thimphu
- Experience: In Thimphu, visit the iconic Tashichho Dzong, a fortress built in 1641 that serves as the seat of Bhutan’s government and religion. Then, head to the Bhutan Post Museum, which showcases the country’s history through its postal system and unique stamps.
- Significance: These landmarks offer a deep connection to Bhutan’s history, culture, and traditions.
- Evening Stroll in Thimphu
- Experience: Spend the evening exploring Thimphu’s vibrant streets, shops, and local life at your own pace.
- Significance: This is a chance to relax and soak in the atmosphere of Bhutan’s capital.
Today, embark on a scenic ride from Thimphu to the tranquil Phobjikha Valley, a journey filled with breathtaking views, spiritual landmarks, and natural beauty. Visit the iconic Kuenselphodrang Buddha Statue, cross the stunning Dochula Pass, and explore the serene Phobjikha Valley, home to the endangered Black-Necked Cranes.
Highlights of Your Day
- Visit Kuenselphodrang Buddha Statue
- Experience: Start your day with a visit to Kuenselphodrang, where the largest Buddha statue in Bhutan sits atop a hill, overlooking the Thimphu Valley. Enjoy panoramic views and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
- Significance: This statue symbolizes peace and happiness, offering a serene start to your day.
- Ride to Dochula Pass (3,150 meters)
- Experience: Depart from Thimphu and ride through pine forests to Dochula Pass, known for its 108 stupas and panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges (on clear days).
- Significance: Dochula Pass is a spiritual and scenic highlight, offering breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility.
- Continue to Phobjikha Valley
- Experience: Ride through lush landscapes to the Phobjikha Valley, a serene and remote valley surrounded by mountains. This valley is the winter home of the endangered Black-Necked Cranes, which migrate here from Tibet.
- Significance: Phobjikha is a place of natural beauty and ecological importance, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
- Visit the Black-Necked Crane Center
- Experience: Learn about the Black-Necked Cranes at the Black-Necked Crane Center, which works to protect these majestic birds. Discover their migration patterns, habitat, and conservation efforts.
- Significance: This visit highlights Bhutan’s commitment to environmental conservation and offers a unique connection to its wildlife.
- Explore Gangtey Monastery
- Experience: Visit the Gangtey Monastery, a 17th-century monastery perched on a hill overlooking the Phobjikha Valley. Explore its historic architecture and spiritual atmosphere.
- Significance: This monastery is a key cultural and religious site in the region, offering stunning views of the valley below.
Today, your journey continues as you ride from Phobjikha to the enchanting Bumthang Valley, crossing high mountain passes and exploring historic landmarks along the way. Visit the Trongsa Museum and Trongsa Dzong, cross the Yotong La Pass, and stop at the Yathra Weaving Center to discover traditional Bhutanese textiles.
Highlights of Your Day
- Ride to Pele La Pass (3,390 meters)
- Experience: Depart from Phobjikha and ride through winding roads to Pele La Pass, a scenic high-altitude pass offering stunning views of the Himalayas.
- Significance: This pass is a gateway to central Bhutan and a highlight of your ride.
- Visit Trongsa Museum
- Experience: Arrive in Trongsa and visit the Trongsa Museum, housed in the historic Ta Dzong (watchtower). Learn about Bhutan’s history, culture, and the royal family through its exhibits.
- Significance: This museum offers a deep dive into Bhutan’s heritage and is a must-visit destination.
- Explore Trongsa Dzong
- Experience: Visit Trongsa Dzong, a massive fortress that once served as the political and religious center of Bhutan. Admire its stunning architecture and strategic location.
- Significance: Trongsa Dzong is a symbol of Bhutan’s history and power, offering a fascinating glimpse into its past.
- Cross Yotong La Pass (3,425 meters)
- Experience: Continue your ride over the Yotong La Pass, another high-altitude pass with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
- Significance: This pass offers a thrilling ride and stunning scenery, making it a memorable part of your journey.
- Stop at Yathra Weaving Center
- Experience: On the way to Bumthang, stop at the Yathra Weaving Center, where you’ll see traditional handwoven wool textiles unique to the Bumthang region. Pick up gifts for loved ones or souvenirs for yourself.
- Significance: This visit supports local artisans and offers a connection to Bhutan’s traditional crafts.
- Arrive in Bumthang Valley
- Experience: End the day in the Bumthang Valley, known for its spiritual sites, lush landscapes, and serene atmosphere.
- Significance: Bumthang is the cultural and spiritual heart of Bhutan, offering a peaceful and enriching experience.
Today, immerse yourself in the natural beauty and spiritual heritage of Bumthang as you ride to the hidden gem of Tang Valley and visit the sacred Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake). End the day with a relaxing hot stone bath, a traditional Bhutanese experience that will rejuvenate your body and mind.
Highlights of Your Day
- Ride to Tang Valley (2 hours, 46 km)
- Experience: Ride to Tang Valley, one of Bhutan’s best-kept secrets. This remote valley is known for its pristine highland beauty, windswept peaks, and grazing yaks and sheep. Explore its sacred shrines and learn about its connection to Terton Pema Lingpa, a revered saint who discovered hidden treasures here.
- Significance: Tang Valley offers a peaceful and spiritual escape, showcasing the untouched beauty of Bhutan.
- Visit Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake)
- Experience: Ride to Mebar Tsho, a sacred lake surrounded by colorful prayer flags. This is where Terton Pema Lingpa discovered hidden treasures as prophesied by Guru Rinpoche. The lake’s legend and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination.
- Significance: Mebar Tsho is a place of deep spiritual energy and a highlight of Bumthang’s cultural heritage.
- Relax with a Hot Stone Bath
- Experience: End the day with a traditional hot stone bath, a therapeutic Bhutanese practice. Heated stones are placed in water infused with medicinal herbs, creating a soothing and rejuvenating experience.
- Significance: This is the perfect way to relax and unwind after a day of exploration.
Today, your journey takes you from Bumthang to Trongsa, with stops at sacred temples, traditional weaving centers, and one of Bhutan’s largest fortresses. Visit the ancient Jambay Lhakhang, explore the Yathra Weaving Center, and marvel at the grandeur of Trongsa Dzong.
Highlights of Your Day
- Visit Jambay Lhakhang
- Experience: Start your day with a visit to Jambay Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo in the 8th century to subdue evil spirits. This is one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan.
- Significance: Jambay Lhakhang is a symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and a must-visit destination.
- Stop at Yathra Weaving Center
- Experience: On the way to Trongsa, stop at the Yathra Weaving Center, where you’ll see traditional handwoven wool textiles unique to the Bumthang region. Pick up gifts for loved ones or souvenirs for yourself.
- Significance: This visit supports local artisans and offers a connection to Bhutan’s traditional crafts.
- Explore Trongsa Dzong
- Experience: Arrive in Trongsa and visit Trongsa Dzong, the largest fortress in Bhutan. Perched on a hill, this massive structure was once the seat of power over central and eastern Bhutan. Explore its grand halls, historic chapels, and stunning architecture.
- Significance: Trongsa Dzong is a symbol of Bhutan’s history and power, offering a fascinating glimpse into its past.
Today, embark on a scenic ride from Trongsa to Gelephu, passing through the charming town of Zhemgang and the warmer regions of Bhutan. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Black Mountain Range, ride through lush forests, and experience the unique culture of Gelephu, a bustling border town known for its cross-border trade with India.
Highlights of Your Day
- Ride to Zhemgang
- Experience: Start your day early and ride to Zhemgang, a quaint town known for its cane and bamboo products. The route takes you through the Mangdechhu Hydro-Electric Project and offers stunning views of the Black Mountain Range.
- Significance: This ride showcases the diverse landscapes and natural beauty of Bhutan.
- Explore Zhemgang
- Experience: Take a short break in Zhemgang to explore its local crafts and peaceful atmosphere. This town is a hidden gem, offering a glimpse into rural Bhutanese life.
- Significance: Zhemgang is known for its traditional cane and bamboo products, making it a unique stop on your journey.
- Ride to Gelephu
- Experience: Continue your ride to Gelephu, a bustling border town near India. The route is peaceful, with less traffic and lush green forests. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including the rare golden langur.
- Significance: This ride offers a tranquil and scenic journey through Bhutan’s warmer regions.
- Explore Gelephu
- Experience: Arrive in Gelephu and take a stroll around this vibrant border town. Experience the unique blend of Bhutanese and Indian cultures and witness cross-border trade activities.
- Significance: Gelephu is a fascinating destination, offering a mix of cultural and economic activities.
Today, enjoy a relaxed and scenic ride from Gelephu to Punakha, passing through the warm plains of southern Bhutan. Ride along wide roads, through orange orchards, and past bustling local markets where ethnic women sell their organic produce. As you approach Punakha, witness the massive Punatsangchu Hydro-Electric Project, a key driver of Bhutan’s economy.
Highlights of Your Day
- Ride Through Warm Plains
- Experience: Depart from Gelephu and ride through the warm plains of southern Bhutan. The wide roads and pleasant weather make for a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
- Significance: This ride offers a change of scenery, showcasing the diverse landscapes of Bhutan.
- Local Markets and Organic Produce
- Experience: Along the way, stop at local markets where ethnic women sell fresh, organic produce. This is a great opportunity to interact with locals and experience their daily life.
- Significance: These markets offer a glimpse into the vibrant culture and traditions of southern Bhutan.
- Ride Through Orange Orchards
- Experience: Pass through lush orange orchards and charming villages, enjoying the serene and picturesque environment.
- Significance: The orchards highlight Bhutan’s agricultural richness and add a touch of natural beauty to your ride.
- Punatsangchu Hydro-Electric Project
- Experience: As you near Punakha, ride past the massive Punatsangchu Hydro-Electric Project, a key infrastructure project that powers Bhutan’s economy.
- Significance: This project is a testament to Bhutan’s development and commitment to sustainable energy.
- Arrive in Punakha
- Experience: Arrive in Punakha, a historic town known for its stunning dzong and beautiful valleys. Check into your hotel and relax after a day of riding.
- Significance: Punakha is a cultural and spiritual hub, offering a peaceful end to your day.
Today, your journey takes you from Punakha to Paro, with a visit to the iconic Punakha Dzong and a scenic ride through lush vegetation and high mountain passes. Enjoy a warm cup of tea or coffee at Dochu La Pass as you soak in the breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Highlights of Your Day
- Visit Punakha Dzong
- Experience: Start your day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful and famous dzongs in Bhutan. Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, this dzong is uniquely located between the Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River).
- Significance: Punakha Dzong is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture and a symbol of the country’s spiritual and political history.
- Ride to Paro via Dochu La Pass
- Experience: Depart from Punakha and ride towards Paro, passing through lush vegetation and ascending to Dochu La Pass (3,150 meters). Stop here for a warm cup of tea or coffee while enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges.
- Significance: Dochu La Pass is a scenic highlight, offering stunning views and a peaceful break during your journey.
- Arrive in Paro
- Experience: Continue your ride to Paro Valley, a picturesque town surrounded by mountains and lush landscapes. Check into your hotel and relax after a day of exploration.
- Significance: Paro is a cultural and historical hub, offering a perfect end to your day.
Today is a highlight of your Bhutan adventure! Choose between a hike to the iconic Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched on a cliff 800 meters above the Paro Valley, or a relaxed exploration of Paro Valley. End the day with a rejuvenating hot stone bath, a traditional Bhutanese experience.
Highlights of Your Day
- Option 1: Hike to Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)
- Experience: Embark on a 2-3 hour hike to Taktshang Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most iconic and sacred sites. Perched on a cliff 800 meters above the valley, this monastery is believed to be where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) flew on the back of a tigress in the 8th century.
- Significance: Tiger’s Nest is a symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and offers breathtaking views of the Paro Valley.
- Option 2: Explore Paro Valley
- Experience: If hiking isn’t your preference, spend the day exploring Paro Valley at your own pace. Visit local landmarks, markets, or hidden gems based on your interests.
- Significance: This flexible option allows you to enjoy Paro’s charm and culture at a relaxed pace.
- Hot Stone Bath
- Experience: End your day with a traditional hot stone bath, a therapeutic Bhutanese practice. Heated stones are placed in water infused with medicinal herbs, creating a soothing and rejuvenating experience.
- Significance: This is the perfect way to relax and unwind after a day of adventure or exploration.
Today marks the end of your unforgettable journey through Bhutan. After breakfast at your hotel, your guide will escort you to Paro International Airport for your departure. Take a moment to reflect on the memories you’ve made, the friendships you’ve formed, and the beauty you’ve experienced in this magical land.
Highlights of Your Day
Breakfast at the Hotel
Experience: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, reminiscing about the incredible experiences of your journey.
Significance: This is a peaceful moment to savor the memories of your adventure.
Transfer to Paro Airport
Experience: Your guide will accompany you to Paro International Airport, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free transfer.
Significance: A heartfelt farewell from your guide symbolizes the warmth and hospitality of Bhutan.
