Overview
Paro, Wangchang Gewog, Paro District, Bhutan The fabled land of Bhutan - the land of Thunder Dragon - is known for its natural heritage, dense forests, mountains, and extraordinarily pristine environment. Experience Bhutan: the kingdom of happiness. If you are a person who is looking for an off-beat holiday destination, with family or as a solo, Bhutan is an exceptional destination. And of course, far from the maddening crowds, exploring Bhutan on a motorcycle is a cut above the rest of the experiences.
Highlights
- Starts in Paro and ends in Guwahati
- Cross Bhutan west to east on a scenic motorcycle journey
- Trek to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery
- Ride over high Himalayan passes including Dochula
- Explore remote valleys and traditional villages
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- 8 nights accommodation
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Paro
Welcome to Paro, Bhutan’s charming valley town surrounded by lush hills and dotted with traditional farmhouses. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. After check-in and some rest, head out for a local sightseeing tour of Paro, visiting landmarks such as Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum. The evening is at leisure to explore the town or relax at your hotel.
Day 2: Paro Tiger’s Nest Monastery
After an early breakfast, embark on a trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Monastery), one of Bhutan’s most iconic and sacred sites perched dramatically on a cliffside. The hike is moderately challenging but deeply rewarding, offering magnificent views of the Paro Valley. Return to Paro by afternoon and spend the evening exploring the local market or relaxing at your hotel.
Day 3: Paro - Thimphu (50 kilometers / 31.1 miles, 1.5 hours)
After breakfast, set out for Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Paro River and through forested valleys. On arrival, check into your hotel and visit key attractions such as the Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, and Tashichho Dzong. In the evening, collect your bikes and take a short test ride around the city in preparation for the days ahead.
Day 4: Thimphu - Punakha (73 kilometers / 45.4 miles, 2 hours)
Today, ride to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan, via the spectacular Dochula Pass (3,100 meters), known for its 108 chortens and panoramic views of the Himalayas. Descend into the warmer Punakha Valley and visit the impressive Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful fortresses situated at the confluence of two rivers.
Day 5: Punakha - Gangtey (79 kilometers / 49.1 miles, 2.5 hours)
Depart for Gangtey, a picturesque glacial valley and home to the endangered black-necked cranes. Visit the Black Stork (Crane) Information Centre to learn about these graceful birds and enjoy the tranquility of the Phobjikha Valley. The scenic ride today is short but filled with stunning views and rural charm.
Day 6: Gangtey - Bumthang (153 kilometers / 95.1 miles, 4.5 hours)
Today’s ride takes you deeper into central Bhutan, passing through the town of Trongsa, known for its majestic Dzong overlooking the valley. Continue onward to Bumthang, often referred to as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, with its ancient monasteries and peaceful surroundings.
Day 7: Bumthang - Mongar (179 kilometers / 111.2 miles, 6 hours)
Ride eastward through the beautiful Ura Valley and across Thrumshing La Pass (3,800 meters), the highest motorable road pass in Bhutan. The journey is long but extremely scenic, with dramatic mountain landscapes and remote villages along the way. Arrive in Mongar by evening.
Day 8: Mongar - Samdrup Jongkhar (248 kilometers / 154.1 miles, 7 hours)
Today marks your descent toward the eastern border. Ride through pristine forests and subtropical valleys, experiencing the changing landscapes of Eastern Bhutan. Arrive in Samdrup Jongkhar, a lively border town connecting Bhutan with India. Celebrate the completion of your cross-country journey.
Day 9: Samdrup Jongkhar - Guwahati (104 kilometers / 64.6 miles, 2.5 hours)
After breakfast, transfer by Innova or Traveller from Samdrup Jongkhar to Guwahati, India. Arrive at the airport in time for your onward flight.
Ride Details
- Terrain
- mix of asphalt and off-road
- Bike
- rental bike (Royal Enfield Himalayan BS6)
- Mileage
- 1,000 kilometers / 621.4 miles
- Daily rides
- 50 - 248 kilometers / 31.1 - 154.1 miles
- Meals
- all breakfasts and dinners
What's included
- Program as per itinerary
- Guided tours (Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha)
- 8 nights accommodation
- Daily breakfast and dinner
- Coaster bus on days 1, 2, and 3
- Bhutan rental bike (Himalayan BS6) for riders (days 4 - 8)
- Fuel for the ride
- Chauffer drive car for non-riders (Toyota Prado or similar) (days 4 - 8)
- Boarder transfer - traveller or mini bus (SJ to GAU)
- Certified English-speaking guide
- Lead rider - bike captain
- Local mechanic
- Bhutan e-visa, entry permits, vehicle permits fee, and SDF fees
- Permits for central and east Bhutan
- All monument fees as per the itinerary
- All airport or city transfers in groups only at Paro and Guwahati
- Mandatory travel insurance
- Applicable GST, other taxes, etc.
Not included
- Flights
- Lunches, other dinners, snacks, tea, coffee, water, and alcoholic drinks
- Any damage to the motorcycle (paid by the rider)
- Tips, souvenirs, or gratuities
- Any costs due to weather, road conditions, health, or any other reasons
- 5% TCS as applicable for foreign travels
- Anything not in the inclusions is excluded
Accommodation
You will stay in selected bespoke midrange hotels on a twin-sharing basis. In locations where twin beds are not available, Viktorianz Bespoke Adventure Travels provides a king-size bed (double room) to be shared.
Food
You will be served daily breakfast and dinner included in the price.
Getting There
This tour will take place in Bhutan. Bhutan, as a country, has always remained elusive, and there is an air of mysticism about this hidden mountain Himalayan Kingdom. [+](https://www.tripaneer.com/viktorianz-bespoke-adventure-travels/8-day-guided-essential-bhutan-motorcycle-tour# "Zoom in") [−](https://www.tripaneer.com/viktorianz-bespoke-adventure-travels/8-day-guided-essential-bhutan-motorcycle-
