**Approx. distance:** ~160 km
**Altitude range:** 2,200 m → 3,100 m → 1,200 m
**Riding time:** 4–5 hours (plus stops, lunch & visits)

Arrive in Paro, where the dramatic Himalayan approach offers a fitting welcome to Bhutan. After completing arrival formalities, transfer to Thimphu, stopping for lunch along the way as the landscape shifts from wide valley floors to forested hillsides.

In Thimphu, meet your guides and collect your Royal Enfield motorcycles, followed by a short briefing to familiarise yourself with the bikes and the style of riding in Bhutan. The adventure then begins with a gentle climb to the iconic Buddha Dordenma, where the great golden statue gazes serenely across the Thimphu Valley — a calm and inspiring place to begin the journey.

Leaving the capital behind, the road climbs steadily through cool pine forests towards Dochula Pass (3,100 m). Crowned by 108 white chortens and surrounded by prayer flags, Dochula offers sweeping Himalayan views on clear days and a wonderfully atmospheric setting when the mist rolls in.

From the pass, we begin a long and beautiful descent into the Punakha Valley (1,200 m). The landscape changes dramatically as pine forests give way to terraced rice fields, riverside villages and fertile hillsides, while the air becomes noticeably warmer as we lose altitude.

Descending towards the valley floor, we pass Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, dramatically positioned on a ridge above the river. Historically one of Bhutan’s great strategic fortresses, it guarded important routes linking western Bhutan with the south and east.

From Wangdue, it is a final relaxed ride into the Punakha Valley, where we settle into our hotel for the night. Over dinner, there is time to reflect on a remarkable first day that has already delivered a Himalayan pass, sacred landmarks, changing landscapes and our first taste of riding through Bhutan.

Approx. distance: ~210–215 km
Altitude range: 1,200 m → ~2,600 m → ~300 m
Riding time: 7–8 hours (plus stops, lunch & dzong visit)

The day begins in the fertile Punakha Valley with a guided visit to the magnificent Punakha Dzong. Set dramatically at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (male river) and Mo Chhu (female river), this riverside fortress is one of Bhutan’s most important and beautiful landmarks — rich in history, symbolism and spiritual significance.

Leaving Punakha, we ride towards Wangdi beneath the impressive Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, which historically guarded the route south towards India. From here, the road follows the Punatsang Chhu, initially running close beside the river before climbing high above it as we head deeper into the mountains.

Midway through the journey, we stop for lunch in Tsirang (1,400 m), a peaceful hill district known for its orange orchards, rice terraces and rural landscapes. A traditional Bhutanese meal overlooking the valley provides a welcome pause before the ride pushes deeper into Bhutan’s southern foothills.

As the journey continues, the descent becomes increasingly dramatic. Tight bends lead through dense forest, bamboo groves and humid valleys, with a remarkable change in climate, vegetation and atmosphere as we leave the central Himalaya behind and descend towards Bhutan’s subtropical south.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Gelephu at around 300 metres above sea level, surrounded by thick forest and the sounds of the subtropics — a striking contrast to the cool mountain valleys of the morning.

Gelephu also lies at the heart of Bhutan’s ambitious Gelephu Mindfulness City project, a new vision for sustainable development that aims to combine economic opportunity and innovative design with the country’s deep-rooted spiritual and environmental values.

After a long and rewarding day in the saddle, we settle into our hotel for the night, with the wild roads of southern Bhutan waiting ahead.

Approx. distance: ~170 km
Altitude range: ~250 m → ~2,100 m (Gongphu La) → ~200 m
Riding time: 6–7 hours (plus stops & river visit)

Continue the adventure with a spectacular ride from Gelephu to Panbang, travelling through one of Bhutan’s most remote and biodiverse regions. The route follows the southern foothills before climbing steadily towards Gongphu La, a forested mountain pass high above the subtropical lowlands.

Gongphu La is locally renowned for its native stingless bees and traditional forest honey, produced deep within these protected woodlands. As the road rises, the air cools and dense mixed forest replaces the subtropical vegetation below, offering a striking contrast in landscape and riding conditions.

Beyond the pass, the route skirts the edge of Royal Manas National Park, Bhutan’s oldest national park and one of the great protected wilderness areas of the eastern Himalaya. This remarkably biodiverse region provides habitat for elephants, golden langurs, greater one-horned rhinoceros and Bengal tigers — a glimpse into Bhutan’s extraordinary natural world.

Before reaching camp, we stop near the dramatic confluence of the Mangde Chhu and Drangme Chhu, where these two great rivers come together to form the Manas River. Surrounded by forest and mountains, it is a powerful meeting point of some of Bhutan’s great river systems.

As evening falls, we settle into our tented riverside camp near Panbang, at the edge of the forest. Surrounded by flowing water and the nocturnal sounds of the jungle, this wonderfully remote setting is the perfect place to unwind, share stories around the fire and fall asleep beneath a canopy of stars — the pure essence of Bhutan’s wild frontier.

Approx. distance: ~165 km
Altitude range: ~200 m → ~500 m → 1,600 m
Riding time: 6–7 hours (plus stops)

Today’s ride carries us deep into eastern Bhutan on a 165 km journey through some of the country’s most dramatic and least-travelled terrain. Leaving the warm subtropical lowlands around Panbang, we ride east towards Nganglam, through a landscape of dense forests, steep-sided valleys and remote settlements.

A short stop in Nganglam (500 m) gives us time to refuel and experience a little of everyday life in Bhutan’s southern foothills before the road turns north and the riding becomes increasingly spectacular.

Beyond Nganglam, the route follows an extraordinary mountain road carved into steep hillsides and cliff faces high above the river valleys. This is one of the most exhilarating riding sections of the journey — sweeping tarmac, long flowing curves and dramatic views across deep gorges, waterfalls and villages clinging to the mountainsides.

As we gain altitude, the environment shifts once again. Dense subtropical vegetation gradually gives way to cooler mountain forest, and the air changes noticeably as we climb towards eastern Bhutan.

By mid- to late afternoon, we arrive in Mongar (1,600 m), a lively eastern town and an important crossroads for this remote part of the kingdom.

We have timed the journey to coincide with the Mongar Tshechu, a vibrant annual festival that draws people from communities across eastern Bhutan. The town comes alive with colour, music and ritual, creating a wonderful atmosphere. Time is set aside the following morning to witness the sacred mask dances and experience the festival — one of the cultural highlights of the entire journey.

Often described as the gateway to Eastern Bhutan, Mongar is where traditional Bhutanese life meets the changing face of the country — a fitting place to rest after a day of high roads, deep valleys and unforgettable riding.

One point I’d check before we finalise the whole itinerary: the exact Day 4 road and distance. Panbang–Nganglam–Mongar at only ~165 km sounds potentially optimistic, depending on the road being used. It’s worth verifying because we want all eight riding days to be genuinely achievable.

Approx. distance: ~190–200 km
Altitude range: 1,600 m → 3,750 m → 2,600 m
Riding time: 7–8 hours (plus stops & cultural visits)

Leaving Mongar, the road winds west through rugged, forested mountains, climbing steadily towards the legendary Thrumshing La Pass (3,750 m) — one of the great highlights of the entire expedition. The ascent delivers a thrilling combination of sweeping bends, mist-shrouded cliffs and vast mountain panoramas. At the summit, prayer flags stream in the wind as wave upon wave of Himalayan ridgelines stretch into the distance.

From Thrumshing La, the road descends towards the Bumthang region, revealing a gentler landscape of open meadows, pine forests and broad mountain valleys — a striking contrast to the wild eastern slopes left behind.

Often described as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, Bumthang is home to some of the country’s oldest monasteries, temples and most sacred pilgrimage sites. Time permitting, we visit Mebar Tsho, the Burning Lake, where according to Bhutanese tradition the great treasure revealer Pema Lingpa discovered sacred treasures hidden centuries earlier.

We continue into the beautiful Bumthang Valley (around 2,600 m), where we settle into our hotel after one of the most memorable riding days of the Tour of the Dragon.

The day ends surrounded by the serenity, history and timeless beauty of one of Bhutan’s most sacred regions — a fitting close to one of the great mountain riding days of the journey.

November departure – Mongar Tshechu

Our November departure is specially timed to coincide with the Mongar Tshechu. Before leaving Mongar, we spend time at this colourful annual festival, where monks and local communities gather for sacred masked dances, music and traditional rituals. It offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Bhutanese culture as a living tradition and adds another dimension to an already extraordinary day.

Approx. distance: ~155 km
Altitude range: 2,600 m → 3,420 m → 2,900 m
Riding time: 5.5–6.5 hours (plus sightseeing & lunch)

Today’s ride heads west through some of central Bhutan’s most historic and spectacular landscapes. Departing Bumthang Valley, the road twists and climbs across forested ridges before opening to sweeping mountain views, delivering classic Himalayan riding from the very start.

By mid-morning, we arrive at the majestic Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan’s largest and one of its most strategically important fortresses. Dramatically perched on a steep ridge above the gorge, it once controlled the principal east–west route through the kingdom. Historically, Bhutan’s kings held the position of Penlop (Governor) of Trongsa before ascending the throne, giving the dzong a special place in the country’s royal history. Its tiered roofs, whitewashed walls and extraordinary position make it one of the most striking sights in Bhutan.

Just above the dzong, we visit the Tower of Trongsa Museum, housed in the restored ancient watchtower. Its exhibits provide a fascinating insight into Bhutan’s monarchy, history and the unification of the kingdom.

Lunch is enjoyed at a scenic restaurant overlooking Trongsa Dzong, with panoramic views across the deep gorge — a memorable pause before the afternoon ride.

Leaving Trongsa, the road climbs steadily through rhododendron and mountain forest towards Pele La Pass (3,420 m), traditionally considered the boundary between central and western Bhutan. From the pass, the landscape opens into rolling highlands before we turn towards the broad glacial valley of Phobjikha.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Gangtey (2,900 m) and settle into our accommodation overlooking the remarkable Phobjikha Valley. This beautiful high-altitude wetland is internationally recognised for its natural and cultural importance and is best known as the winter home of the endangered black-necked crane.

During the winter migration season, the cranes can often be seen across the valley, adding to the extraordinary sense of peace and stillness — a fitting end to a day combining some of Bhutan’s finest riding, history and wildlife.

Approx. distance: ~230–250 km
Altitude range: 2,900 m → ~3,300 m → ~1,200 m → ~2,800 m → ~1,200 m
Riding time: ~8 hours (plus stops, lunch & Gasa visit)

Today is one of the great adventure days of the Tour of the Dragon, taking us from the high glacial landscapes of Phobjikha into the remote northern mountains at Gasa, before returning to the warmer Punakha Valley for the night.

The morning begins in the stillness of the Phobjikha Valley, winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes. During the migration season, their distinctive calls can sometimes be heard across the valley in the early morning — a memorable start to a big day in the saddle.

Leaving Gangtey, the road climbs gently over Lawa La Pass (approx. 3,300 m), a small but scenic pass marking our departure from the highlands. In clear morning light, it is an ideal place to pause for photographs, with wide skies and sweeping views across the surrounding mountains.

From the pass, a long and flowing descent leads towards Wangdue Phodrang and the Punakha Valley, completing our great loop through southern, eastern and central Bhutan. We are now back on familiar roads from earlier in the journey, but today we turn north for one final exploration into the mountains.

Following the Mo Chhu upstream from Punakha, the road leads deeper into an increasingly remote landscape of forested mountains, steep-sided valleys and rushing glacial rivers. Traffic becomes scarce and settlements fewer as we ride towards Gasa, one of Bhutan’s most isolated districts.

Our objective is Gasa Dzong, dramatically positioned high above the Mo Chhu Valley. One of Bhutan’s most remote and atmospheric fortresses, it historically guarded the northern approaches to the kingdom and the ancient routes leading towards Tibet and the high Himalayas.

There is time to explore the dzong and take in the mountain views before we turn south once more, following the Mo Chhu back towards Punakha.

By late afternoon or early evening, we arrive back in the Punakha Valley and settle into our hotel for the night. After the cool highlands of Phobjikha, the remote mountain roads of Gasa and the long descent back to the subtropical valley, it has been a remarkable day — and one of the most adventurous of the entire journey.

Approx. distance: ~250–270 km
Altitude range: ~1,200 m → 3,100 m → ~2,300 m → ~2,700 m → 3,988 m → ~2,200 m
Riding time: ~8–9 hours (plus stops & lunch)

Today is the grand finale of the Tour of the Dragon — a spectacular final day in the saddle that takes us from the warm Punakha Valley across two great Himalayan passes, through Bhutan’s capital and into the remote Haa Valley before our final descent to Paro.

Leaving Punakha after breakfast, the road begins its long, familiar climb through changing vegetation towards Dochula Pass (3,100 m). After the warmth of the valley below, the cool mountain air returns as we gain altitude, with the 108 white chortens appearing once again on the high ridge. On a clear morning, the Himalayan panorama provides a magnificent backdrop to our final day.

From Dochula, a flowing descent through pine forest brings us into Thimphu. After passing through the capital, we continue west, leaving the busier roads behind as we head towards the remote Haa Valley.

The road climbs through increasingly wild mountain scenery before descending into Haa, one of Bhutan’s most secluded and beautiful valleys. Surrounded by forested mountains and traditional villages, Haa feels wonderfully removed from the outside world and provides a final glimpse of rural Bhutan before we tackle the last great pass of the journey.

From Haa, the road climbs dramatically towards Chele La (3,988 m), the highest motorable pass in Bhutan and a fitting climax to eight extraordinary days of riding. At the summit, thousands of prayer flags stream across the ridgeline and, when the skies are clear, magnificent views open towards Bhutan’s highest mountains.

There is time to stop, take photographs and absorb the moment before beginning our final descent.

The road sweeps down through forests towards the Paro Valley, gradually losing altitude as the mountains open around us. After hundreds of kilometres through Bhutan’s wild south, remote east, central valleys and high Himalayan passes, we finally ride back into Paro, completing an extraordinary circuit of the kingdom.

Tonight we celebrate the end of the Tour of the Dragon — eight unforgettable days in the saddle and a journey through an astonishing variety of landscapes, cultures and experiences.

No biking today — instead, we conclude our Himalayan adventure with Bhutan’s most iconic and deeply symbolic experience: the pilgrimage to Paro Taktsang, the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To enjoy the cooler air and quieter trails, the walk begins at 7:00 am.

The 5–6 hour round-trip hike winds steadily upwards through pine forest, past prayer flags and the scent of burning incense and juniper, 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 anticipation.

According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to this cliff on the back of a tigress in the 8th century, meditating here and helping establish Buddhism in Bhutan.

Standing at the monastery, seemingly suspended between sky and earth, it is impossible not to feel both humbled and inspired. The stillness, the scale and the devotion embedded in this extraordinary place offer a moment of reflection — a fitting and unforgettable conclusion to the Tour of the Dragon.

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

Tonight, we return to Paro for our final evening together and a well-earned celebration of an extraordinary journey across Bhutan.

No biking today — instead, we conclude our Himalayan adventure with Bhutan’s most iconic and deeply symbolic experience: the pilgrimage to Paro Taktsang, the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To enjoy the cooler air and quieter trails, the walk begins at 7:00 am.

The 5–6 hour round-trip hike winds steadily upwards through pine forest, past prayer flags and the scent of burning incense and juniper, 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 anticipation.

According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to this cliff on the back of a tigress in the 8th century, meditating here and helping establish Buddhism in Bhutan.

Standing at the monastery, seemingly suspended between sky and earth, it is impossible not to feel both humbled and inspired. The stillness, the scale and the devotion embedded in this extraordinary place offer a moment of reflection — a fitting and unforgettable conclusion to the Tour of the Dragon.

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

Tonight, we return to Paro for our final evening together and a well-earned celebration of an extraordinary journey across Bhutan.

◉ Eight unforgettable days of motorcycling across Bhutan — Ride deep into the mystical Land of the Thunder Dragon on an epic 10-day journey designed for riders seeking both adventure and meaning.

◉ From the alpine west to Bhutan’s wild southern frontier and remote east — Begin in Paro and Thimphu, descend through Punakha to the subtropical south, then ride through remote Panbang and into the mountains of eastern Bhutan before completing a spectacular loop back west.

◉ Some of the most breathtaking mountain roads on Earth — Flowing Himalayan tarmac winds through deep gorges, river valleys and forested ridgelines, where every corner brings a new landscape and a new perspective.

◉ Ride legendary high passes — Cross Bhutan’s great mountain thresholds, including Thrumshing La (3,750 m) and Chele La (3,988 m), where prayer flags stream in the wind and, on clear days, the great Himalayan peaks rise across the horizon.

◉ Bhutan in all its contrasts — Ride from subtropical forests and rushing rivers to cool pine forests, high glacial valleys and windswept mountain passes, experiencing the extraordinary diversity of Bhutan in a single journey.

◉ Cultural depth, not just distance — Visit ancient dzongs, remote monasteries and traditional villages, meeting local people and experiencing a way of life that remains deeply connected to Bhutan’s culture and landscape.

◉ Sacred valleys and quiet wilderness — Experience Bumthang, the serene Phobjikha Valley, remote Gasa and the secluded Haa Valley, each revealing a very different side of the kingdom.

◉ Into the wild north at Gasa — Follow the sacred Mo Chhu River north from Punakha to Gasa Dzong, dramatically positioned above one of Bhutan’s most remote mountain valleys and once guarding the ancient approaches to the high Himalayas.

◉ A spectacular final day in the saddle — Ride from Punakha across Dochula, through Thimphu and into the remote Haa Valley, before crossing Chele La (3,988 m) and making the final descent into Paro — an unforgettable conclusion to eight extraordinary days of riding.

◉ Finish at the legendary Tiger’s Nest — Leave the motorcycles behind for the final adventure: the hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, spectacularly perched on the cliffs above the Paro Valley.

◉ The ultimate Bhutan motorcycle journey — Epic in scope, rich in culture and experienced properly from the saddle.

• Group Size: 4–10 riders per departure, keeping the experience personal and flexible.
• Riding Skill: Suitable for experienced and confident motorcyclists. Most roads are paved, but expect long mountain days, countless bends, steep climbs and descents, high passes and occasional sections affected by weather or roadworks.
• Altitude: The route ranges from around 200–300 m in Bhutan’s subtropical south to 3,988 m at Chele La Pass. The itinerary moves progressively through a wide range of elevations, with most nights spent considerably lower than the highest passes.
• Support: Every trip includes a professional Bhutanese motorcycle guide riding with the group, a mechanic riding with the group, a spare motorcycle if required, and a back-up support vehicle with driver carrying luggage, tools and essential spare parts. The support vehicle is available should a rider need assistance or need to take time off the bike.
• Safety: Our guides are trained in first aid, with the riding team, mechanic and support vehicle providing assistance throughout the journey.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available at most hotels, but mobile and internet coverage can be limited in the more remote regions — all part of travelling through Bhutan’s wildest corners.

✓ Motorbike rental (Royal Enfield Himalayan 450) and fuel
✓ Professional Bhutanese motorbike guide, riding with the group
✓ Mechanic riding with the group, plus spare bike and essential parts
✓ Back-up support vehicle for luggage and emergencies
✓ Accommodation throughout the trip
✓ All meals – breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus tea/coffee
✓ Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
✓ Bhutan visa and visa processing
✓ Entry fees to monuments, dzongs and museums
✓ Bhutan government royalties, taxes, permits and local fees
✓ Airport transfers within Bhutan
✓ Motorbike insurance for major accidents only, covering damage to the motorcycle and third-party damage

Motorbike insurance does not cover personal medical expenses or emergency evacuation.

Riders must have their own comprehensive travel insurance specifically covering motorcycle 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

Every night on the Tour of the Dragon is carefully chosen to be more than just a place to sleep. We stay in a thoughtfully selected mix of comfortable hotels, boutique lodges and eco-retreats, all chosen for their character, location and warm Bhutanese hospitality.

These are places that reflect the culture and landscapes we ride through — from peaceful mountain valleys to remote corners of southern and eastern Bhutan. After long days in the saddle, you can expect hot showers, clean and comfortable rooms, good food and a warm welcome, giving you the chance to relax, recharge and enjoy the surroundings.

Accommodation is offered on a twin-share basis. Single rooms can be requested and are subject to availability in some locations.

• 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.