Approx. distance: ~200 km
Altitude range: 1,200 m → 3,420 m → 2,600 m
Estimated riding time: 6–7 hours (excluding stops, sightseeing and lunch)

Leaving the warmth of the Punakha Valley behind, we follow one of Bhutan’s classic mountain roads east into the heart of the kingdom. The route climbs steadily through forests of pine, fir and rhododendron towards Pele La Pass (3,420 m), traditionally regarded as the gateway between western and central Bhutan.

Prayer flags flutter across the pass, and on clear days there are impressive views of Bhutan’s remote Himalayan ranges. Beyond the pass, the landscape changes once again as the road winds through broad valleys, traditional villages and forests rich in birdlife.

A highlight of the day is a visit to the magnificent Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan’s largest fortress monastery. Dramatically perched high above a deep gorge, Trongsa has played a central role in Bhutan’s history for centuries and offers a fascinating insight into the country’s royal heritage.

Continuing east, we climb over Yotong La Pass before descending into the broad and beautiful Bumthang Valley, widely regarded as Bhutan’s spiritual heartland.

Our destination is Jakar, the principal town of Bumthang and home to some of the kingdom’s most important temples and monasteries. Surrounded by fertile farmland, forests and traditional villages, Jakar provides a welcoming base for the evening and an ideal introduction to central Bhutan.

Overnight: Jakar, Bumthang

Highlights: Pele La Pass, Trongsa Dzong, Yotong La Pass, Bumthang Valley, Jakar.

Approx. distance: ~200 km
Altitude range: 2,600 m → 3,750 m → 1,600 m
Estimated riding time: 7 hours (excluding stops, sightseeing and lunch)

Today is one of the most spectacular riding days of the tour. Leaving the Bumthang Valley behind, we climb through dense conifer forests towards Thrumshing La Pass (3,750 m), the second-highest motorable pass in Bhutan and the highest point on the country’s east–west highway.

Beyond the pass, the road descends dramatically through Thrumshingla National Park, where the landscape changes rapidly from alpine forests to lush temperate valleys and, eventually, the warmer landscapes of eastern Bhutan. The constantly changing scenery, sweeping mountain roads and quiet traffic make this one of Bhutan’s finest riding experiences.

Continuing east, the road twists through countless bends before arriving in Mongar, the principal town of eastern Bhutan. Built along a steep mountainside and renowned for its traditional Bhutanese architecture, Mongar provides an ideal base before tomorrow’s journey into one of Bhutan’s most remote regions.

Overnight: Mongar

Highlights: Thrumshing La Pass, Thrumshingla National Park, eastern Bhutan, Mongar.

Approx. distance: ~215 km
Altitude range: 1,600 m → 2,500 m → 3,100 m
Estimated riding time: 7–8 hours (excluding stops, sightseeing and lunch)

Today we venture deep into eastern Bhutan, following one of the Kingdom’s most spectacular and least-travelled roads. Leaving Mongar, we continue east over Kori La Pass before descending through lush valleys to the historic town of Trashigang, the commercial and cultural centre of eastern Bhutan.

From Trashigang, we leave the main highway and follow a narrow mountain road that climbs steadily into the remote Sakteng Valley. The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as forests give way to open alpine meadows, scattered yak pastures and traditional Brokpa settlements. With very little traffic, this is one of Bhutan’s finest motorcycle roads, offering a genuine sense of exploration and adventure.

By late afternoon we arrive in Sakteng, one of Bhutan’s most isolated villages. Home to the semi-nomadic Brokpa people, the valley has retained a unique culture and way of life shaped by centuries of living in these high mountain pastures.

Overnight: Sakteng

Highlights: Kori La Pass, Trashigang, remote mountain roads, Sakteng Valley and the unique culture of the Brokpa people.

Approx. distance: ~215 km
Altitude range: 3,000 m → 1,100 m → 2,500 m → 1,600 m
Estimated riding time: 5–6 hours

Spend a leisurely morning exploring Sakteng, one of Bhutan’s most remote and culturally distinctive villages. There is time to stroll through the village, meet members of the Brokpa community and experience a way of life that has remained remarkably unchanged for generations. The traditional stone and timber houses, colourful dress and spectacular mountain setting make this a memorable place to slow down and absorb the atmosphere.

Spring Departure: Our April departure coincides with the Sakteng Rhododendron Festival, giving guests the opportunity to experience the final morning of this unique celebration of Brokpa culture before beginning the journey back towards central Bhutan.

Returning via Trashigang (1,100 m), we retrace our route over Kori La Pass (2,450 m) before continuing west to Mongar, where we rejoin Bhutan’s east–west highway. Once again, the ride offers magnificent mountain scenery, quiet roads and sweeping views across the hills of eastern Bhutan.

Arriving in Mongar during the late afternoon, there is time to relax at the hotel or take a stroll through the town before dinner.

Overnight: Mongar

Highlights: Sakteng village, Brokpa culture, Kori La Pass, Trashigang, remote mountain roads and eastern Bhutan.

Approx. distance: ~220 km
Altitude range: 1,600 m → 650 m
Estimated riding time: 6–7 hours (excluding stops, sightseeing and lunch)

Leaving Mongar, we begin one of the finest riding days in Bhutan. The road descends dramatically towards Nganglam, twisting through dense forests and towering cliffs on a beautifully engineered mountain highway. With smooth tarmac, flowing bends and very little traffic, this is a motorcyclist’s dream and undoubtedly one of the highlights of the entire tour.

After a break in Nganglam, we continue south on another spectacular mountain road through increasingly lush subtropical forest. Crossing Rinchenzor La Pass, the scenery changes once again as bamboo forests, tropical vegetation and broad river valleys replace the cool mountain forests of eastern Bhutan.

By late afternoon we arrive at our riverside tented camp near Panbang, beautifully situated at the confluence of the Mangde Chhu and Drangme Chhu rivers. Surrounded by jungle and the sounds of the forest, this is one of the most unusual and memorable overnight stops of the journey.

Overnight: Riverside tented camp, Panbang

Highlights: The spectacular Mongar–Nganglam road, Rinchenzor La Pass, subtropical forests, Panbang and riverside camping at the confluence of the Mangde Chhu and Drangme Chhu.

Approx. distance: ~240 km
Altitude range: 650 m → 2,200 m
Estimated riding time: 6–7 hours (excluding stops, sightseeing and lunch)

Today we leave the warm subtropical forests of southern Bhutan and begin a spectacular climb back into the Himalayan heart of the Kingdom. The contrast between the landscapes of Panbang and Trongsa is remarkable, making this one of the most varied riding days of the journey.

Leaving our riverside camp in Panbang, we follow the Mangde Chhu Valley north through Tingtibi before continuing to Zhemgang, where the road begins its long climb into the mountains. The recently completed highway is one of Bhutan’s finest riding roads, with smooth tarmac, sweeping bends and very little traffic.

As we gain altitude, broadleaf forests gradually give way to pine, fir and rhododendron forests, while the air becomes noticeably cooler. The constantly changing scenery provides a vivid reminder of Bhutan’s extraordinary ecological diversity, from tropical river valleys to the cool forests of the central Himalaya.

By late afternoon we arrive in Trongsa, the historic heart of central Bhutan. Dominated by its magnificent fortress monastery, the town occupies a dramatic position high above the Mangde Chhu Valley and provides a fitting setting for another memorable evening in the Kingdom.

Overnight: Trongsa

Highlights: Mangde Chhu Valley, Tingtibi, Zhemgang, the Panbang–Trongsa highway, subtropical forests and Trongsa.

Approx. distance: ~240 km
Altitude range: 2,200 m → 3,420 m → 2,800 m
Estimated riding time: 6–7 hours (excluding stops, sightseeing and lunch)

Leaving the historic town of Trongsa, we continue west along Bhutan’s spectacular central highway before climbing to Pele La Pass (3,420 m), traditionally regarded as the gateway between central and western Bhutan. Colourful prayer flags flutter across the pass and, on clear days, distant Himalayan peaks can be glimpsed beyond the forested ridges.

Descending from Pele La, we arrive in the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, one of Bhutan’s most peaceful and picturesque landscapes. During our November departure, the valley is home to the famous black-necked cranes, which migrate here each winter from the Tibetan Plateau. There is time to enjoy the tranquillity of the valley and visit the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre before continuing our journey.

We stop for lunch beside the river in Punakha before turning north. Leaving the main highway behind, we follow a quieter mountain road that climbs steadily into one of Bhutan’s most remote districts.

Our destination is Gasa, where the magnificent Gasa Dzong stands high above the valley. For centuries, this impressive fortress guarded the ancient trade route between Bhutan and Tibet, protecting travellers and controlling access through the northern Himalaya.

This evening is one of the highlights of the journey. We stay with local families in traditional homestays, enjoying genuine Bhutanese hospitality before relaxing in Gasa’s natural hot springs—the perfect way to unwind after another memorable day in the saddle.

Overnight: Traditional homestay, Gasa

Highlights: Pele La Pass, Phobjikha Valley, black-necked cranes (November departures), Punakha, Gasa Dzong, natural hot springs and traditional Bhutanese homestays.

Approx. distance: ~155–165 km
Altitude range: 2,800 m → 3,100 m → 2,320 m
Estimated riding time: 5.5–6.5 hours (excluding stops, sightseeing and lunch)

Today marks the penultimate day of riding, turning south and east towards Bhutan’s capital while allowing time to savour the final miles of the journey. Departing Gasa after breakfast, the road follows the sacred Mo Chhu through quiet forested valleys, providing a relaxed and scenic start to the day.

Before reaching the main valley floor, the route climbs gently towards Talo, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and characterful villages. Perched high above the Punakha Valley, Talo offers sweeping views, traditional farmhouses and a final, intimate glimpse of rural Bhutanese life—a fitting pause after days of high mountain passes and remote valleys.

Descending from Talo, we return to the Punakha Valley, where we stop for lunch in the warmth of the lower valley. It is a chance to relax, rehydrate and reflect on the journey so far before crossing the final high pass of the expedition.

In the afternoon, the road climbs steadily through pine forests to Dochula Pass (3,100 m). If the skies are clear, this is an ideal time for photography, with the 108 white chortens framed against the distant Himalayan skyline.

From Dochula, a smooth and familiar descent brings us back to Thimphu and the same hotel where our Bhutanese adventure began. With the riding complete, there is time to explore the capital, enjoy a relaxed café, browse the local shops or make a quiet kora around the Thimphu Memorial Chorten, bringing the journey gently full circle before the final day.

Overnight: Thimphu

Highlights: Talo village, Punakha Valley, Dochula Pass, Himalayan views and Thimphu.

Approx. distance: ~120 km
Altitude range: 2,320 m → 2,700 m → 3,988 m → 2,200 m
Estimated riding time: 4–5 hours (excluding stops, sightseeing and lunch)

Today’s journey is pure Himalayan magic—a fitting finale to an unforgettable adventure. Leaving Thimphu, the road climbs west towards the serene and secluded Haa Valley (2,700 m), one of Bhutan’s hidden gems. The valley unfolds gently, with traditional farmhouses, buckwheat fields and quiet villages set beneath snow-dusted peaks.

From Haa, the ride becomes even more spectacular as the road climbs towards Chele La Pass (3,988 m), Bhutan’s highest motorable road. The ascent follows a ribbon of tarmac carved into the mountainside, revealing ever-expanding views across the high Himalaya and, on clear days, the magnificent summit of Mount Jomolhari.

At the pass, there is time for a short walk to a small chorten overlooking Chele La. Here, each rider ties a set of prayer flags, adding to the hundreds already fluttering in the mountain wind. In Bhutanese tradition, prayer flags carry blessings and good wishes across the landscape, making this a symbolic and memorable way to celebrate the completion of our journey together.

The descent winds through forests of blue pine and rhododendron before opening into the broad Paro Valley. By late afternoon we arrive in Paro (2,200 m), where there is time to relax, explore the town or browse its renowned craft shops before the final evening.

Tonight we bid farewell to our Royal Enfield motorcycles and to the support crew who have shared the road throughout the expedition. Our farewell dinner is an opportunity to celebrate the journey, share stories from the road and raise a glass to an extraordinary adventure through the hidden Kingdom of Bhutan.

Overnight: Paro

Highlights: Haa Valley, Chele La Pass, Mount Jomolhari views, prayer flag ceremony, Paro Valley and farewell celebration.

Walking time: 5–6 hours return
Start time: 7:00 am

There is no riding today. Instead, your Himalayan adventure concludes with Bhutan’s most iconic and deeply symbolic experience: the hike to Paro Taktsang, the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To enjoy the cooler morning air and quieter trails, we set off at 7:00 am.

The trail climbs steadily through fragrant pine forests scented with juniper and incense, opening to sweeping views across the Paro Valley below. With each step, the outside world seems to fall away, replaced by a growing sense of calm, purpose and quiet anticipation. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to this cliff on the back of a tigress in the 8th century, meditating here and bringing Buddhism to Bhutan.

Standing before the monastery, suspended between sky and earth, it is impossible not to feel humbled by both the setting and its extraordinary history. The stillness, the scale and the devotion embedded in this remarkable place provide a moment of quiet reflection—a fitting and unforgettable conclusion to the Hidden Kingdom Ride.

As you descend back towards Paro, there is time to reflect on the roads travelled, the mountain passes crossed, the friendships formed and the spirit of Bhutan that now travels with you—not simply as a memory, but as something quietly woven into the journey ahead.

Overnight: Paro (or transfer to Paro International Airport for onward departure, depending on your flight schedule.)

Highlights: Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Paro Valley, Himalayan forest trails and the spiritual heart of Bhutan

This morning, bid farewell to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight, carrying with you unforgettable memories of this remarkable Himalayan journey. From the sweeping high passes of Chele La and Thrumshingla to the serene valleys of Bumthang and Haa, every kilometre has revealed a different facet of Bhutan — its beauty, spirit, and timeless rhythm of life. As your flight lifts above the mountains, take one last look at the landscapes that defined your adventure — a fitting farewell to the Thunder Dragon Ride, an experience that will stay with you long after the journey ends.

◉ Traverse Bhutan from west to east, then from the high Himalaya to the subtropical jungles of the south, before returning through the Kingdom’s spectacular central mountains.

◉ Visit the remote mountain village of Sakteng, home of the unique Brokpa people, and enjoy an unforgettable night in a traditional Bhutanese homestay.

◉ Experience authentic Bhutanese hospitality with traditional family homestays in both Sakteng and Gasa, offering a genuine insight into life in two of Bhutan’s most remote communities.

◉ Spend a memorable night at our riverside tented camp in Panbang, beautifully situated at the confluence of the Mangde Chhu and Drangme Chhu rivers, surrounded by the forests of southern Bhutan.

◉ Ride the spectacular Mongar–Nganglam Road, one of Bhutan’s finest motorcycling routes, carved dramatically into steep mountainsides high above the valleys below.

◉ Journey through the lush subtropical forests bordering Royal Manas National Park, Bhutan’s oldest and most biologically diverse protected area.

◉ Enjoy one of Bhutan’s newest and finest mountain roads as you climb from the jungles of Panbang to the historic fortress town of Trongsa.

◉ Witness Bhutan’s extraordinary diversity, riding from alpine passes and high Himalayan valleys to tropical forests and river gorges in a single unforgettable journey.

◉ Visit Bhutan’s great fortress-monasteries, including Punakha Dzong, Trongsa Dzong, Gasa Dzong, Gangtey Monastery, and the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

◉ Explore the tranquil Phobjikha Valley, home to the endangered black-necked cranes during our November departure.

◉ Relax in the natural Gasa Hot Springs and experience life in one of Bhutan’s most remote Himalayan districts.

◉ Ride across Chele La Pass (3,988 m), Bhutan’s highest motorable road, with panoramic views of the eastern Himalaya.

◉ Tie prayer flags on Bhutan’s high mountain passes and conclude your adventure with the unforgettable pilgrimage to Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

◉ A complete journey across the Hidden Kingdom, combining world-class riding, authentic cultural encounters, spectacular mountain scenery, remote communities and the very best of Bhutan—experienced from the saddle.

• Group Size: 4–12 Riders, ensuring a personal experience.

• Riding Skill: Suitable for experienced riders; roads are paved but mountainous, with many curves and high passes.

• Altitude: From 250 m in the subtropical south to nearly 4,000 m at Chele La Pass, with acclimatisation built into the itinerary.

• Support: Every trip includes a professional Bhutanese motorbike guide riding with the group, a mechanic riding with the group (whose bike serves as the spare bike if needed), and a back-up support vehicle with driver carrying luggage, tools, and spare parts. The vehicle is available at any time should a rider need assistance or a rest day off the bike. This is the minimum level of support we offer, providing the best possible coverage for all incidents.

• Safety: Guides are trained in first aid, with support always close at hand.

• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available at most hotels, but expect patchy coverage in remote areas — part of Bhutan’s charm.

✓ Motorbike rental (Royal Enfield Himalayan 450) and fuel
✓ Back-up support vehicle for luggage and emergencies
✓ Professional Bhutanese motorbike guide (riding with the group)
✓ Mechanic riding with the group, plus spare bike and essential parts
✓ Accommodation throughout the trip
✓ All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea/coffee)
✓ Entry fees to monuments, dzongs, and museums
✓ Bhutan government royalties, taxes, and permit fees
✓ Airport transfers within Bhutan
✓ Motorbike insurance for major accidents only, covering the bike and third-party damage
– This insurance does not cover medical expenses or evacuation
– Riders must hold their own comprehensive travel insurance, explicitly covering motorbike riding, medical treatment, and emergency evacuation

⨯ International flights to and from Bhutan

– We are happy to arrange your flights to Bhutan from Kathmandu, Delhi or Bangkok
– We will recommend the most convenient routing and best available fares
– We will normally book these flights for you at the time we take your tour deposit

⨯ Hotels, airport transfers and meals before or after the tour in Kathmandu, Delhi or Bangkok

If arriving via Kathmandu:

– We normally recommend Hotel Shanker, Kathmandu, as the group meeting point
– Accommodation can be booked on your behalf and paid directly at the hotel
– If staying at Hotel Shanker, the hotel can arrange complimentary airport transfers to and from Kathmandu Airport

⨯ Personal travel insurance – mandatory and must explicitly cover motorcycle riding, medical treatment and emergency evacuation

⨯ Personal riding gear – helmet, boots, jacket, gloves, etc.

⨯ Alcohol, soft drinks and snacks outside included meals

⨯ Optional single-room supplement

⨯ Tips for staff

– Tipping at hotels is not required
– For our riding team and support staff, we suggest allowing approximately US$10–20 per rider per day
– We normally collect this towards the end of the trip and make a group presentation to the team on the final evening

Accommodation on The Hidden Kingdom Ride is an integral part of the experience and has been carefully selected to reflect the extraordinary diversity of Bhutan itself. Throughout the journey, we stay in a thoughtfully curated mix of comfortable hotels, boutique lodges, traditional Bhutanese guesthouses, a unique riverside tented camp, and authentic family homestays. Each has been chosen for its character, hospitality, location and ability to provide a genuine connection with the places we visit.

Among the highlights are two unforgettable nights spent with local families in Sakteng and Gasa. These are not simply places to sleep, but rare opportunities to experience authentic Bhutanese hospitality and daily life. In the remote mountain village of Sakteng, home of the unique Brokpa people, we gain an insight into one of Bhutan’s most distinctive cultures, sharing meals and stories with our hosts in a community that has remained largely unchanged for generations.

Equally memorable is our overnight stay in Gasa, one of Bhutan’s most remote Himalayan districts. Here we enjoy traditional hospitality before relaxing in the famous Gasa hot springs, a perfect way to unwind after another rewarding day in the saddle.

A completely different experience awaits in the subtropical south, where we spend a night at our riverside tented camp near Panbang, beautifully situated at the confluence of the Mangde Chhu and Drangme Chhu rivers. Surrounded by tropical forest and the sounds of the jungle, it offers a memorable evening in one of Bhutan’s least-visited regions.

Throughout the journey, every overnight stop has been selected to enhance the experience, ensuring that the accommodation is as much a part of the adventure as the riding itself. For many guests, these evenings become some of the most memorable moments of the entire journey.