Your Bhutan adventure begins in Paro, where we collect the bikes, check gear, and set off westward toward the Haa Valley. The road climbs steadily through pine forests and small villages before reaching Chele La Pass (3,988 m) — the highest motorable road in Bhutan. The ascent is a rider’s dream: endless switchbacks, crisp mountain air, and views that stretch across the snow-capped Himalayas. At the pass, we stop to soak in the panorama, walk up to the viewpoint above, and enjoy hot Bhutanese tea from a roadside vendor as yaks graze nearby and prayer flags flutter in the wind.

From Chele La, we descend into the hidden Haa Valley, a peaceful region steeped in legend and traditional Bhutanese life. After lunch and a short exploration of Haa Town, we continue east, following the road through Chuzom, where the Paro, Thimphu, and Haa rivers meet at a sacred confluence marked by three chortens.

The final stretch leads us along smooth tarmac and gentle bends toward Thimphu, Bhutan’s lively capital, where we arrive by evening. It’s the perfect end to an incredible first day — a mix of high mountain passes, serene valleys, and open roads that capture the true spirit of riding in Bhutan.

Leaving the capital behind, the road climbs through cool pine forests toward the breathtaking Dochula Pass (3,100 m). Here, 108 white chortens stand in perfect harmony, their graceful forms framed by panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas — a place where spiritual devotion and natural beauty meet in quiet majesty.

Descending into the warmer valley of Punakha, the road winds through forests and rice terraces toward the majestic Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most exquisite architectural treasures, set at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. From here, the adventure continues north toward Gasa, a hidden valley known for its wild beauty and legendary fortress. The ride climbs through dense forest and rugged switchbacks before reaching Gasa Dzong, perched dramatically above the valley.

Stop for lunch with a view, surrounded by centuries of history and the serene stillness of Bhutan’s remote north. Afterward, descend back to Punakha, where the day concludes with a visit to Punakha Dzong — a fitting end to a remarkable journey that has spanned high mountain passes, sacred rivers, and timeless Bhutanese culture, all in one unforgettable day.

Depart Punakha after breakfast and follow the winding mountain road eastward toward Trongsa. The ride ascends gradually through forests of oak, rhododendron, and pine before reaching the high glacial valley of Phobjikha — one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and tranquil places. Home to the endangered black-necked cranes that migrate here each winter, Phobjikha is a wide, bowl-shaped valley of sweeping meadows, traditional farmhouses, and the elegant Gangtey Monastery, which overlooks the valley in timeless grace.

Take time to explore the monastery and enjoy lunch in the valley, soaking in its peaceful atmosphere before continuing the journey east. The road climbs steadily to Pele La Pass (3,420 m), often marked by fluttering prayer flags and sweeping Himalayan views, before descending in a series of winding switchbacks toward Trongsa, the ancient heart of Bhutan.

Arrive in Trongsa by late afternoon and check in to your hotel. The town clings dramatically to the mountainside, dominated by the magnificent Trongsa Dzong, whose white walls and red roofs rise above the deep gorge of the Mangde Chhu River — a stunning reminder of Bhutan’s royal heritage.

Settle in and enjoy a quiet evening surrounded by history, with the distant sound of prayer horns echoing through the valley.

Begin the return journey westward from Trongsa, tracing the mountain road back through deep valleys, winding passes, and ever-changing Himalayan scenery. The ride climbs once more over Pele La Pass (3,420 m), where prayer flags ripple in the mountain wind, before descending toward Wangdue and the fertile valleys beyond.

Stop en route for coffee or lunch and enjoy the changing landscapes — from cool conifer forests to sunlit terraces of rice and chili. By afternoon, continue the ride over the familiar curves of Dochula Pass, where clear skies reveal sweeping views of Bhutan’s highest peaks.

Descending toward the capital, the journey concludes in Thimphu with a final ascent to the majestic Buddha Dordenma, whose golden form overlooks the valley — a fitting and symbolic end to your Himalayan adventure.

As the sun sets over the mountains, take a quiet moment at the Buddha’s feet to reflect on the journey — the roads conquered, the friendships formed, and the spirit of Bhutan that will stay with you long after the ride ends.