Across the Last Himalayan Kingdom Ride for 13 Days

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Duration

13 days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

6 people

Languages

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About this tour

Embark on an unforgettable 13-Day Bhutan Motorcycle Journey, a thrilling adventure that takes riders deep into the heart of the Last Himalayan Kingdom. Designed for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking more than just spectacular roads, this expedition offers a rare opportunity to experience Bhutan’s rich culture, pristine landscapes, and authentic way of life.

Ride through some of the most scenic mountain roads in the Himalayas, crossing high mountain passes, lush valleys, ancient forests, and traditional villages untouched by modern development. From the vibrant western valleys of Bhutan to the remote eastern highlands, every day presents a new adventure and breathtaking scenery.

A highlight of this extraordinary journey is the visit to the remote semi-nomadic village of Merak, home to the indigenous Brokpa people. Here, riders gain a unique insight into one of Bhutan’s most fascinating cultures, where centuries-old traditions and a distinctive way of life continue to thrive amidst the rugged mountain landscape.

This tour offers a remarkable blend of riding experiences, from smooth winding highways and challenging mountain roads to remote routes that reveal Bhutan’s hidden beauty. Along the way, riders will encounter changing weather patterns, diverse ecosystems, dramatic Himalayan vistas, sacred monasteries, ancient fortresses, and warm Bhutanese hospitality.

Whether carving through mountain curves, sharing stories with local communities, or witnessing stunning Himalayan sunrises, this motorcycle expedition delivers an authentic adventure unlike anywhere else in the world.

Join us on this epic ride across Bhutan and discover a land where adventure, culture, and natural beauty come together to create the ultimate Himalayan motorcycle experience.

Tour at a Glance

Aspect  Details 
Destination  Bhutan Eastern Himalayas & Chele la Pass 
Best Season  March – May, September – November
Duration  13 Days / 12 Nights 
Active Riding Days  11 Days on road 
Accommodation  Premium hotels, Lodges & Homestay 
Motorcycle Type Royal Enfield Himalayan 450cc or 411cc 
Difficulty level  Moderate (technical high altitude riding)
Maximum Altitude  3,988m (Chelela Pass) 
Maximum sleeping altitude  2,900m – 3,000m (Phobjikha valley) 
Average daily distance  150 kilometers 
Max Group Size Minimum 6 Riders / Maximum 20 Riders
Fitness Level Required Moderate (High altitude endurance) 

 

Included/Excluded

  • Accommodation on twin sharing basis at equivalent to 3* level hotel or lodge
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
  • Pickup from Guwahati Airport (India) to Bhutan in comfortable vehicle
  • From Phuntsholing to Bagdogra airport drop in comfortable vehicle
  • Bhutan Visa (pre-arranged visa)
  • Accompanied by a Road captain throughout the expedition
  • Royal Enfield motorcycle (Himalayan 411cc or Himalayan 450cc) throughout the
  • expedition
  • Fuel / Gasoline throughout the expedition in Bhutan
  • All hotel taxes / service charge
  • Experienced Mechanic throughout the expedition
  • Back up spare parts
  • Backup truck, jeep or van for luggage
  • First Aid Kit
  • Bhutan Sustainable Development fees US$100 per person per day
  • Internal route permit throughout the expedition
  • Dinner at local farm house
  • Bottled water throughout the expedition
  • Monument fees including Tiger’s Nest
  • Any domestic air ticket or Railway ticket
  • Indian Visa (double-entry visa recommended)
  • Any travel insurance coverage(strongly recommended)
  • Any drinks other than specified in the inclusion section
  • Any riding gears such as helmet, sunglass, hand gloves and body protector
  • Any wears and tears (any damages caused to the motorcycle has be bear by the rider)
  • Any laundry
  • Any tips to expedition team
  • Any single room supplement US$ 495

Itinerary

This morning, you will take a flight from Delhi to Bagdogra. Upon arrival at Bagdogra Airport, you will be greeted by our team and begin your overland journey to Phuntsholing, the gateway to Bhutan.

The drive from Bagdogra to the Indo-Bhutan border takes approximately 4–5 hours, passing through the bustling towns and scenic landscapes of North Bengal. Upon reaching the border, complete Indian immigration formalities before exiting India and proceeding to Bhutanese immigration for entry clearance into Bhutan.

After completing the necessary immigration procedures, continue to your hotel in Phuntsholing and check in. The rest of the evening is free to relax and recover from the journey.

Dinner and overnight stay in Phuntsholing.

Today marks the beginning of your motorcycle adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Bhutan. After completing the necessary tour briefing, permit verification, and motorcycle handover formalities, you will kick-start your journey towards the beautiful Haa Valley via the scenic Damchu–Haa bypass road.

The ride offers an exciting introduction to Bhutan’s winding mountain roads, lush forests, and dramatic valleys. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan foothills and experience the serenity of Bhutan's countryside. A delicious lunch will be served en route at a carefully selected local restaurant.

Upon arrival in Haa Valley, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax or explore the charming surroundings. One of Bhutan's least-visited regions, Haa offers a unique glimpse into traditional Bhutanese culture and rural life.

Dinner and overnight stay in Haa Valley.

After breakfast, visit Lhakhang Karpo, meaning the “White Temple.” This 7th-century Buddhist monastery is one of the most sacred sites in western Bhutan and holds deep spiritual significance for the region. It forms a sacred pair with Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple), together symbolizing the spiritual balance and cultural identity of the Haa Valley. The temple complex is also associated with the valley’s protective deity, Ap Chhundu.

Later, continue your motorcycle ride towards Paro via the iconic Chele La Pass (3,988m), the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. The journey offers breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks, dense alpine forests, and vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind.

After spending some time at the pass for photography and sightseeing, descend towards the beautiful Paro Valley. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax after an exhilarating ride through one of Bhutan’s most scenic mountain routes. In the evening stroll around Paro town. 

Dinner and overnight stay in Paro.

Early morning, ride to the base of the legendary Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), one of Bhutan’s most iconic and sacred pilgrimage sites. Perched dramatically on a cliffside overlooking the Paro Valley, the monastery offers breathtaking views and a deeply spiritual atmosphere.

Begin the hike to Tiger’s Nest, which takes approximately 3–4 hours uphill through pine forests and scenic mountain trails. After exploring the monastery complex and spending time at this remarkable site, descend back to the base, which takes around 2–3 hours.

Later in the day, continue your motorcycle journey to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. The ride takes approximately 60–70 minutes, passing through scenic valleys and winding mountain roads.

Upon arrival in Thimphu, check in to your hotel. The evening is free for leisure, relaxation, or exploring the capital at your own pace.

Dinner and overnight stay in Thimphu.

After breakfast, visit the majestic Buddha Dordenma, a towering 51.5-meter golden Buddha statue that overlooks the entire Thimphu Valley and symbolizes peace and prosperity.

Following the visit, begin your journey towards Punakha via the spectacular Dochula Pass, located at an altitude of 3,100 meters (10,171 feet) on the highway connecting Thimphu and Punakha. Weather permitting, enjoy panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas and take a short photography break among the 108 memorial chortens that adorn the pass.

Descend into the lush Punakha Valley and stop for a warm lunch. Afterward, visit the historic Punakha Dzong, a magnificent fortress located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.

Later in the afternoon, continue your ride towards the serene Phobjikha Valley, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful glacial valleys. Upon arrival, check in to your accommodation and spend the evening at leisure, surrounded by peaceful nature and open landscapes.

Dinner and overnight stay in Phobjikha Valley.

After breakfast, depart from Phobjikha Valley and begin your scenic ride towards the beautiful Bumthang Valley, often considered the cultural heartland of Bhutan.

En route, cross the high mountain pass of Pele La Pass at 3,420 meters, offering sweeping views of alpine landscapes and yak pastures. After descending from the pass, make a short stop at the historic Chendebji Chorten, a striking white stupa built in the 18th century by Lama Shida. According to legend, it was constructed to subdue the evil spirit Nyala Duem, believed to have taken the form of a giant snake.

Continue the ride towards Trongsa Valley, where lunch will be served. After a refreshing break, proceed further into central Bhutan as the road climbs again towards Yotong La Pass at 3,425 meters.

From the pass, descend through the picturesque Chumey Valley, known for its traditional weaving villages and scenic farmland, before finally arriving in Bumthang Valley.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and spend the evening at leisure in this peaceful and culturally rich region.

Dinner and overnight stay in Bumthang.

Today, we begin the journey early in the morning to make the most of daylight and to avoid delays caused by ongoing road widening works along the route. The ride from Bumthang to Mongar is one of the most scenic yet challenging sections of the journey, featuring long stretches of mountain roads, forested slopes, and dramatic elevation changes.

A packed lunch or picnic lunch will be arranged and enjoyed en route at a suitable scenic stop, allowing you to relax amidst Bhutan’s untouched natural beauty.

In the afternoon, continue the ride towards Mongar, gradually descending into the eastern Himalayan foothills. Upon arrival, check in to the hotel and take some time to rest after a long riding day.

Later in the evening, enjoy a short stroll around Mongar town, experiencing the local lifestyle and calm atmosphere of eastern Bhutan.

Dinner and overnight stay in Mongar.

After breakfast, depart from Mongar and begin your ride towards Trashigang, one of the key towns in eastern Bhutan. The route offers a beautiful mix of mountain passes, river valleys, and winding Himalayan roads.

En route, cross the scenic Kori La Pass at 2,450 meters. Stop here for a short photography break to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Continue the descent along a series of sweeping curves down to the Serechu River valley. After crossing the river, the road gradually climbs again through a long and scenic stretch of Himalayan landscape. Before reaching the Chazam Bridge junction, take a right turn towards Trashigang town. Upon arrival, check in to the hotel and relax after the day’s ride.

In the evening, relax in the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay in Trashigang.

Distance: 75 km (one way) | Ride Time: Approx. 2 hours each way

After breakfast, embark on an exciting ride to the remote highland village of Merak, one of Bhutan's most unique semi-nomadic settlements. The journey takes you through the picturesque countryside of Rangjung and Radhi, known for their scenic landscapes, traditional villages, and vibrant rural life.

The ride continues over Thurmbula Pass (3,390 m), offering breathtaking mountain views and a true Himalayan riding experience. Upon arrival in Merak, take time to explore the village, interact with the local Brokpa community, and experience their distinctive culture and way of life.

Lunch will be served at a local homestay or enjoyed as a picnic amidst the stunning natural surroundings.

After spending time in Merak, ride back to Trashigang. The evening is at leisure to relax and reflect on the day's adventure. 

Dinner and overnight stay at Trashigang.

Today, embark on a beautiful day excursion ride from Trashigang to Trashiyangtse, following the scenic route along the Drangme Chhu and Kholong Chhu river valleys. The journey offers serene landscapes and peaceful stretches of eastern Bhutan’s countryside.

Upon arrival in Trashiyangtse, visit the sacred Chorten Kora, a revered Buddhist stupa built in the 18th century by Lama Ngawang Loday. Constructed over a 12-year period starting in 1740, it is believed to have been built to subdue a powerful local demon. Located beside the Kholong Chhu River at an altitude of about 1,750 meters, it remains one of the most important pilgrimage sites in eastern Bhutan.

Continue your visit to explore the traditional art of woodturning and carving known as Shagzo, for which Trashiyangtse is widely renowned. Local artisans, called Shagzopas, are famous for crafting the traditional wooden bowls known as Dapa, skillfully made to fit together in pairs.

Enjoy a hot lunch in Trashiyangtse town before beginning your return ride to Trashigang in the afternoon.

Upon arrival, check in and relax for the evening.

Dinner and overnight stay in Trashigang.

After breakfast, begin your final long riding day through the eastern Himalayan landscapes of Bhutan as you journey towards Samdrup Jongkhar, the gateway to the Indian state of Assam. This marks one of the last and most scenic motorcycle rides of your Bhutan adventure. The route winds through remote valleys, forested slopes, and traditional villages, offering a final glimpse of eastern Bhutan’s untouched beauty. Along the way, enjoy a relaxed stop for a hot lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant.

After lunch, continue riding through a series of winding mountain roads featuring hairpin bends, narrow stretches, and sharp curves demanding careful and steady riding through this rugged terrain.

Upon arrival in Samdrup Jongkhar, check in to your hotel and unwind after the day’s journey.

Dinner and overnight stay in Samdrup Jongkhar.

After breakfast, complete the necessary Bhutan exit formalities at Samdrup Jongkhar, followed by Indian immigration procedures at the border. Please note that immigration clearance may take some time depending on documentation and traffic at the checkpoint. Once all formalities are completed, continue your journey into India and drive towards Guwahati, the gateway city of Northeast India, located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River.

Upon arrival in Guwahati, check in to your hotel and spend the evening at leisure, relaxing after the completion of your cross-border Himalayan motorcycle expedition.

Dinner and overnight stay in Guwahati.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Guwahati Airport for your onward flight to Delhi. This marks the conclusion of your memorable motorcycle journey through the Himalayas of Bhutan.

We hope you carry home unforgettable memories of scenic mountain rides, rich cultural experiences, and the warm hospitality of the region.

Wishing you a pleasant journey and safe flight back home & Tashi Delek!

Frequently asked questions

Our 12-day Nomadic Journey is the only motorcycle tour in Bhutan that provides exclusive access to the remote Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary and authentic Brokpa communities. Unlike typical tours that focus on western Bhutan, this Bhutan bike tour ventures into the rarely-visited eastern highlands, offering genuine cultural immersion through traditional homestays and participation in nomadic lifestyle activities. The experience includes sleeping in Brokpa homes, sharing meals with families, and witnessing traditional yak-herding practices that have remained unchanged for centuries.

Yes, accessing Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary requires special internal route permits beyond the standard Bhutan visa. Our team arranges all necessary permits, including the restricted area permits for Merak and Sakteng villages. The Bhutan motorbike adventure includes all permit fees, Sustainable Development Fee ($100/person/day), and coordination with local authorities. These permits are limited and require advance booking, making this one of the most exclusive motorcycle experiences available in Bhutan.

This motorcycle tour in Bhutan requires moderate riding skills and good physical fitness due to high-altitude conditions and varied terrain. Riders should be comfortable with Royal Enfield motorcycles, off-road sections, and daily rides averaging 150km. The route includes challenging passes like Thrumshing La (3,780m) and steep mountain roads. While previous Himalayan riding experience is beneficial, our expert road captains provide guidance and support throughout the journey. We recommend riders have at least 2-3 years of motorcycle touring experience.

The optimal seasons for this Bhutan motorbike adventure are March-May and September-November, when weather conditions are most favorable for high-altitude riding and clear mountain views. Spring offers rhododendron blooms throughout Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, while autumn provides crystal-clear Himalayan vistas and stable weather. Winter months (December-February) can bring snow to high passes, making some routes impassable. Summer (June-August) is monsoon season with potential road closures and muddy conditions, though it offers lush green landscapes.

Tour's Location

From: $4,096.00

Owner

pravinnepal

Member Since 2025

Information Contact

Email

[email protected]

Website

bhutanmotorcycle.com

Phone

+975 17 11 38 52

Fax

+975 2 33 73 91