Welcome Riders

Paro - Upon arrival at Paro airport, travelers will be greeted by their guide and transported by road to their overnight accommodation. Late in the morning, a briefing and orientation on the Royal Enfield Motorcycle will be provided. In the afternoon, enjoy an introductory ride north through the Paro Valley to the ancient ruins of Drugyel Dzong, which was destroyed by fire in the 1950s. This historic site, known as the Fort of Drukpa Victory, is where the Bhutanese successfully defended against numerous Tibetan invasions over the centuries. On clear days, the stunning 24,000ft sacred Mt Chomolhari is visible. Returning down the valley, cross the suspension bridge at Lango village and travel along a farm road that passes through several small villages, offering a fascinating glimpse into rural Bhutanese life. Continue south to Paro for dinner and cocktails in a traditional Bhutanese village house, with the opportunity to experience a hot stone bath.

Paro to Haa

Haa to Punakha

Punakha - A big riding day awaits. Travel to Punakha, covering 160 km on some of Bhutan’s finest motorcycling roads. The route is scenic and undulating, with minimal traffic until Chuzom, and from there, excellent roads lead towards Punakha over the Dochula pass.

Gasa Hot Springs

Punakha - Enjoy a leisurely ride around the Punakha valley today. Visit the highlights of the Punakha Dzong fortress and the Khamsum Yeulley Namgyal stupa, which involves a delightful hike. Ride towards Gasa to relax in the hot springs. After lunch, return to the hotel. The ride distance is 140 km.

Punakha to Trongsa Tangsibje

Trongsa - Experience a delightful ride towards the Trongsa valley over Pelela pass. Before reaching Trongsa, visit the village in Tangsibje to experience rural lifestyles and stay at a farmhouse, showcasing the best of Bhutanese hospitality.

Tangsibji to Bumthang

Bumthang - This morning, visit the impressive Tower of Trongsa Museum, recently opened and currently the best in the Kingdom. Built into the ancient watchtower overlooking the Dzong, it offers a wealth of information on Bhutan’s vibrant history and provides spectacular views over the Dzong and valley. If time permits, briefly visit the Dzong itself before continuing eastwards to the central Bumthang valleys via the Yotu La (pass). The Bumthang region includes the four major valleys of Choekhor, Tang, Ura, and Chhume. Upon arrival in Choekhor Valley, options for visits include the Wangdicholing Palace and/or the Jambay & Kurjey Lhakhangs, the oldest monasteries in the kingdom. All the Kings of Bhutan are cremated at Kurjey Lhakhang. Later, take a stroll through Jakar town and explore the bars there tonight for an entertaining mix of pool, soccer on TV, karaoke, and a great chance to chat with the locals!

Bumthang Sightseeing

Jakar - Visit some of the valley’s highlights, including the Kurjey temple, Jamba Lhakhang, and Tamzhing temples, where about 95 monks reside, most under 15, from families who cannot afford to send their children to state school. A visit to the Swiss Farm is also worthwhile to taste sweet cheese, apple brandy, and locally brewed wine and beer. Alternatively, enjoy one of the hikes available in this region or find a quiet spot at the hotel to catch up on some reading. In the afternoon, visit the Ura valley, the highest in Bumthang, believed by some to have been the home of Bhutan’s earliest inhabitants. The very traditional Ura village offers insight into central Bhutanese life, with its cobbled streets lending a medieval feel. The elderly women of this region still wear sheepskin shawls on their backs, which double as a blanket and cushion.

Bumthang to Phobjikha

Phobjikha Leisure Valley Hike

Gangtey Monastery - Today is a rest day, off the bike. Enjoy a lovely hike around this beautiful valley and visit the Gangtey Gonpa monastery. Relax at the resort for an easy, cheerful evening.

Phobjikha to Thimphu

Thimphu Sightseeing and Riding

Thimphu - Today is a relaxed day. Wake up leisurely and start riding to the north of the valley to Tango and Cheri Monasteries. Hike up to the monasteries and spend half a day enjoying the walk in nature. Return to Thimphu for lunch and ride down to the Simtokha Dzong. Visit the colorful vegetable market in the afternoon. Enjoy a fantastic meal in some of the best restaurants, with a choice of Bhutanese, Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, and Thai cuisine.

Thimphu to Paro

Taktsang Gompa - After a leisurely breakfast this morning, enjoy the ride back to the Paro Valley on Bhutan’s best section of road. Upon arrival in Paro Valley, hike to the Taktsang Monastery (Tigers Nest) viewpoint, a 1.5 to 2-hour round trip, and have lunch at the Viewpoint Cafe (Bhutanese Vegetarian). Alternatively, for those with at least moderate fitness and the inclination, continue all the way to the Monastery itself, a 5-hour round trip. The monastery clings dramatically to a cliff of rock 3000 ft above the valley floor, and the hike is a wonderful way to conclude the Bhutan experience. Return the motorcycle this afternoon and enjoy a farewell dinner. If the group consists of more than 8 people, a cultural show is also staged to end this fantastic journey.

Departure

Bhutan - Early morning departure to Paro airport for the onward flight.

• Guided tour with all transfers and accommodations included
• Comprehensive meal plan with breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Royal Enfield motorcycle rental for exhilarating rides
• Support of a backup vehicle with mechanic and basic spares
• Inclusive of all Bhutan Tourism Levy/taxes and visa fees

• airfare, personal expenses, beverages, gratuity and tips, travel insurance

Bhutan Rides, a company run by motorcycle enthusiasts, focuses on royal enfield tours throughout Bhutan. Their 12-night, relaxed pace motorcycle journey is crafted to showcase the best Bhutan has to give. This tour takes you through the picturesque valleys of Haa, Paro, Trongsa, Punakha, Phubjikha, and Bumthang - a setting that is ideal for anyone who would love a ride around the Himalayas. The tour goes beyond just the ride and includes visits to the most sought-after tourist destinations in the region. It enhances your motorcycling experience with a rich cultural aspect, showing visitors our vibrant culture and traditions, prolific history, ancient fortresses, spectacular bio-diversity, breathtaking Himalayan views, friendly locals, and rural ways of life. Enjoy exhilarating rides during the day, and unwind in comfort at night in a selection of hotels, campsites, and local farmhouses. The journey is accompanied by a tour leader and support crew who provide experienced guidance.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.