Arrive in the enchanted Paro Valley, a serene landscape of pine forests, rice terraces, and traditional farmhouses framed by distant Himalayan peaks. After clearing formalities, you’ll transfer to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital, where your adventure truly begins. Here, you’ll meet your guide and be introduced to your Royal Enfield motorbike, followed by a detailed gear check and warm-up ride to the magnificent Buddha Dordenma — a towering golden statue watching peacefully over the valley.

The short ascent offers your first taste of Bhutan’s flowing roads and sweeping mountain views. In the evening, join your guide for a relaxed trip orientation and briefing, where the upcoming journey is outlined over dinner. As the sun sets behind the ridges of Thimphu, anticipation builds — the Tour of the Dragon has begun.

Your first full day on the road is a spectacular introduction to Bhutan’s Himalayan landscapes. Departing Thimphu, the route climbs toward the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100 m), where 108 white chortens stand sentinel against sweeping views of the eastern Himalayas. It’s a serene and photogenic stop, with crisp air, shifting mists, and mountain panoramas stretching to the horizon. 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 meeting point 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. You’ll stop here for lunch with a view, surrounded by centuries of history and the pure stillness of Bhutan’s remote north. After lunch, descend through the mountains and valleys back to Paro, where the day ends with a gentle tour of Paro Dzong — a fitting return to where your Bhutanese adventure began, combining high mountain passes, sacred rivers, and timeless culture in one unforgettable day.

Today’s journey covers 194 kilometres of ever-changing scenery as you ride from the cool mountain air of Punakha (1,200 m) down to the warm subtropical plains of Gelephu (250 m) — one of Bhutan’s lowest valleys. The road winds through fertile hills and misty forests, offering sweeping views of the Himalayas slowly giving way to the lush greenery of the south. Midway, you’ll stop for lunch in Tsirang (1,400 m), a picturesque hill district known for its orange orchards, rice terraces, and peaceful rural charm. It’s the perfect place to pause, stretch, and enjoy a traditional Bhutanese meal overlooking the valley — a gentle midpoint between alpine ridges and tropical forests.

As the day’s ride continues, the descent becomes more dramatic, with sharp bends leading through dense jungle, bamboo groves, and humid valleys. By the end of the day’s ride, you’ll arrive in Gelephu, surrounded by thick forest and the rhythmic sounds of cicadas. The warm air, rich colours, and vibrant lowland atmosphere mark a complete transformation — a true immersion into Bhutan’s incredible ecological diversity.

Continue your adventure with a 170 km ride from Gelephu (250 m) to Panbang (200 m), one of Bhutan’s most remote and biodiverse frontiers. The route follows the southern foothills, skirting the edge of the Royal Manas National Park — Bhutan’s oldest and most celebrated wildlife reserve. As you ride deeper into the subtropical wilderness, the air grows heavy with the scent of jungle and the calls of exotic birds echo through the trees. This region is home to elephants, golden langurs, rhinoceros, and Bengal tigers, offering a glimpse into Bhutan’s wilder, untamed side.

In the afternoon, visit the confluence of the Mangde Chhu and Drangme Chhu rivers, where these powerful waterways merge to form the mighty Manas River — a place of natural and spiritual significance, symbolising the union of Bhutan’s great river valleys. As evening falls, settle into your tented camp by the forest’s edge. Surrounded by the sounds of flowing water and the nocturnal hum of the jungle, this tranquil riverside setting is the perfect place to unwind, share stories by the fire, and fall asleep beneath a canopy of stars — the pure essence of Bhutan’s wild frontier.

Today’s ride takes you deep into the eastern heartlands of Bhutan — a 165 km journey that reveals some of the most dramatic scenery in the kingdom. Leaving the tropical lowlands of Panbang (200 m) behind, the road climbs gradually through Zhemgang, winding into the lush Kuri Chhu River Valley. The route follows a spectacular new road, carved directly into sheer cliff faces high above the rushing Kuri Chhu River. Every bend reveals a new panorama — steep ridgelines, tumbling waterfalls, and villages perched impossibly on the slopes. It’s a thrilling section of riding, a true testament to Bhutan’s engineering skill and adventurous spirit.

As the altitude rises, the landscape transforms from dense jungle to mountain pine and rhododendron forests. By afternoon, you’ll reach Mongar (1,600 m) — a lively eastern town known for its unique stone-and-wood architecture, traditional markets, and vibrant culture. Often called the gateway to Eastern Bhutan, Mongar is where old and new Bhutan meet — the perfect place to rest after a day of high roads, deep valleys, and unforgettable views.

The day begins amid the vibrant energy of the Mongar Festival, where the air fills with the sound of horns, drums, and chanting as monks perform sacred masked dances (cham) in a dazzling display of colour and devotion. Locals gather in their finest traditional dress, creating an atmosphere of joy and spirituality — a powerful expression of Bhutan’s living culture. After the festival, ride 75 km north along a winding mountain road that follows the Kuri Chhu River, through forests and remote hamlets, toward Lhuntse (1,700 m) — one of Bhutan’s most secluded and culturally authentic districts. Visit the magnificent Lhuntse Dzong, perched dramatically on a rocky ridge, before continuing to Khoma Village, famed for its handwoven textiles. Here, you’ll meet the artisans who create Bhutan’s most intricate kushuthara fabrics, woven by hand on traditional looms.

Tonight, stay in local homestays, an unforgettable highlight of the journey. You’ll share home-cooked meals, stories, and laughter with village families, experiencing Bhutanese hospitality at its most genuine. As the evening settles over the valley, surrounded by warmth, simplicity, and connection, you’ll feel truly immersed in the heart of Eastern Bhutan.

Today’s 234 km ride is one of the most spectacular and rewarding journeys of the entire expedition. Departing Lhuntse (1,700 m), the road winds west through rugged, forested mountains, climbing steadily toward the legendary Thrumshingla Pass (3,750 m) — the highest motorable pass on this route and a highlight for any rider crossing Bhutan. The ascent offers a thrilling blend of switchbacks, mist-shrouded cliffs, and endless mountain vistas. From the summit, you’ll look out over wave upon wave of untouched Himalayan ridgelines, prayer flags fluttering in the wind. The descent toward Bumthang (2,600 m) opens into a gentler landscape of meadows, pine forests, and wide valleys — a marked contrast to the wild eastern slopes.

Bumthang is known as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, home to some of its oldest monasteries and sacred pilgrimage sites. Explore the revered Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake), where legend tells of treasures retrieved from the depths by the great saint Pema Lingpa, and visit ancient temples that have shaped Bhutan’s spiritual heritage for over a thousand years. The day ends in quiet reflection — surrounded by the serenity, history, and timeless beauty that make Bumthang one of Bhutan’s most sacred valleys.

After days of mountain passes and long-distance rides, today unfolds at a gentler pace as you explore the tranquil Tang Valley (2,800 m) — one of the most beautiful and least-visited corners of Bumthang. The 80 km round ride meanders through quiet villages, pine forests, and fields of buckwheat and barley, revealing a timeless rural landscape. Begin with a visit to Kurjey Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s most sacred temples and the meditation site of Guru Rinpoche, who brought Buddhism to the Himalayas in the 8th century. The temple complex, nestled against the mountainside, radiates a deep sense of peace and spiritual presence.

Continue through the valley to the Ogyen Choling Museum, a beautifully preserved ancestral estate that offers rare insight into Bhutan’s aristocratic heritage and way of life before modernisation. Its old stone manor, artifacts, and family chronicles tell the story of Bhutan’s cultural evolution across generations. The ride back to Bumthang in the late afternoon captures the valley at its most serene — prayer flags fluttering in the wind, the sound of yak bells in the distance, and golden light spilling across the fields. It’s a day of reflection, culture, and quiet beauty, perfectly balanced within the rhythm of your Himalayan journey.

Today’s 155 km ride takes you westward through central Bhutan’s most historic and scenic landscapes. Departing Bumthang, the road twists and climbs across forested ridges before opening to sweeping views of the Black Mountains. Stop en route at the majestic Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan’s largest fortress and the ancestral home of the royal family. Built strategically along a steep ridge, the dzong dominates the valley with its tiered roofs, whitewashed walls, and commanding views. Just above it stands the Tower of Trongsa Museum, housed in a restored watchtower that offers fascinating insights into Bhutan’s monarchy and military history.

From Trongsa, the road ascends through rhododendron forests and rolling highlands toward Gangtey (2,900 m), set in the wide glacial expanse of the Phobjikha Valley. This serene, bowl-shaped valley is one of Bhutan’s most enchanting places — home to wandering yaks, traditional farmhouses, and the graceful black-necked cranes that migrate here from Tibet each winter. Arriving in Gangtey by late afternoon, you’ll be surrounded by the peace and open space of the high valley — an unforgettable contrast to the dense forests and narrow gorges of earlier days.

This morning, take time to absorb the quiet majesty of the Phobjikha Valley before beginning your 135 km return ride to Thimphu. Before departing, visit the Black-necked Crane Information Center, where you’ll learn about the conservation efforts protecting these graceful migratory birds that make the valley their winter home. Continue to the nearby Gangtey Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most important Nyingma institutions, founded in the 17th century. Perched on a small hill overlooking the valley, it radiates spiritual calm and offers sweeping views across the glacial plain — a perfect place for a moment of reflection before the descent.

From Gangtey, the road winds westward through forested mountains and small rural settlements, passing Wangdue before rejoining the main highway to Thimphu. The return ride offers a blend of open roads, mountain switchbacks, and panoramic vistas — a reminder of Bhutan’s ever-changing landscapes. Arriving in Thimphu, the capital once again greets you with its lively streets, local markets, and mountain charm. After days in remote valleys and high passes, the city’s warmth and vibrancy mark a gentle transition back to civilisation — the perfect close to another day of discovery and contrast.

Today’s 180 km journey is pure Himalayan magic — a sweeping ride through alpine passes, remote valleys, and high mountain air. Leaving Thimphu, the road climbs west toward the serene and secluded Haa Valley (2,700 m), one of Bhutan’s hidden gems. The valley unfolds with traditional farmhouses, fields of buckwheat, and quiet villages framed by snow-capped peaks. Pause to explore the ancient Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple), a revered spiritual landmark that embodies the valley’s deep Buddhist roots. The stillness here feels timeless, with fluttering prayer flags and distant yak bells echoing through the crisp air.

From Haa, the adventure intensifies as the road ascends toward the spectacular Chele La Pass (3,988 m) — Bhutan’s highest motorable road. The climb is thrilling, a ribbon of asphalt carved into the mountainside, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the distant snow peaks of Mount Jomolhari. At the summit, thousands of prayer flags ripple in the wind, creating a kaleidoscope of colour against the sky. Descend through forests of blue pine and rhododendron to reach Paro (2,200 m) by evening. After a day of switchbacks, high passes, and pristine valleys, settle in and unwind — reflecting on one of the most exhilarating rides of the entire journey.

No biking today — instead, you’ll conclude your Himalayan adventure with Bhutan’s most iconic experience: the hike to Paro Taktsang, or Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Perched dramatically on a sheer cliff at 3,120 m, this sacred site is a symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual soul and an unforgettable highlight of the journey. The 5–6 hour round-trip trek winds through pine forests scented with incense and prayer flags, offering sweeping views across the Paro Valley. Each step brings a sense of peace and accomplishment as you approach the monastery, clinging impossibly to the rock face — a place where legend says Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century.

Reaching the monastery, you’ll feel both humbled and inspired by its serenity and setting — a powerful moment of introspection that marks the perfect conclusion to your Tour of the Dragon. As you descend back to Paro, take time to reflect on the miles travelled, the mountains conquered, and the spirit of Bhutan that will stay with you long after the ride ends.

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.

• Group Size: 2–12 riders per departure for a personal experience.
• Riding Skill: Suitable for experienced riders (roads are paved but mountainous, with many curves and high passes).
• Altitude: Routes range from 250m in the subtropical south to nearly 4,000m at Chele La Pass. Acclimatization is built into the itinerary.
• Support: Back-up jeep carries luggage and is available if you need a rest day off the bike.
• Safety: Our guides are trained in first aid, and support vehicles are always nearby.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available at most hotels, but expect patchy coverage in remote areas — part of Bhutan’s charm.

✓ Motorbike rental (Royal Enfield Himalaya 450)
✓ Back-up support vehicle for luggage and emergencies.
✓ Professional Bhutanese guide + foreign trip leader (Glenn/Kezang).
✓ Mechanics and spare parts support.
✓ 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 in Bhutan.

⨯ International flights to/from Bhutan (we can advise best routes).
⨯ Personal travel insurance (mandatory, must cover motorbiking).
⨯ Personal riding gear (helmet, boots, jacket, etc.).
⨯ Alcohol, soft drinks, and snacks outside meals.
⨯ Optional single-room supplement.
⨯ Tips for staff (at your discretion).

We carefully select authentic, locally owned accommodations — a mix of comfortable hotels, traditional farmstays, and boutique guesthouses. This way you not only rest well after a day’s ride but also experience Bhutanese hospitality and culture up close.

• Twin-share basis (single supplement available on request).
• Hot showers, clean rooms, and hearty meals guaranteed at every stop.

• Riding Gear: Helmet, armored jacket, riding pants, gloves, and boots (we recommend bringing your own for best comfort/fit).
• Clothing: Layered clothing for a wide range of temperatures — from warm subtropical valleys to chilly high mountain passes.
• Essentials: Sunglasses, sunscreen, reusable water bottle, personal toiletries, small daypack.
• Documents: Passport (valid for 6+ months), Bhutan visa (we assist with arrangements), valid motorcycle license (international license recommended).
• Optional: Camera/GoPro, lightweight rain gear, power bank, small first-aid kit.