Bhutan Backroads Expedition | 7-Day Motorcycle Adventure

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Duration

7 days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

6 people

Languages

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About this tour

This 7-day Bhutan Motorcycle Tour has been thoughtfully designed for riders who have limited time but still want to experience the very best of Bhutan on two wheels. Combining thrilling mountain roads, breathtaking Himalayan scenery, ancient monasteries, and authentic Bhutanese culture, this itinerary offers an unforgettable adventure in a compact timeframe.

The journey begins in Guwahati, India, where you’ll meet our team before crossing into eastern Bhutan via Samdrup Jongkhar. From there, ride through some of Bhutan’s most spectacular and lesser-explored landscapes, including Panbang, Phobjikha Valley, Thimphu, Paro, and Phuntsholing, before concluding your adventure with an overland transfer to Bagdogra, India, for your onward flight.

Perfect for adventure enthusiasts seeking an immersive Himalayan riding experience without an extended holiday, this expedition delivers the ideal balance of scenic rides, cultural exploration, and comfortable overnight stays.

Tour at Glance 

Destination  Bhutan 
Optimal Season  March – May & Sep – November
Total Duration 07 Days , 06 Nights 
Active Riding Days  05 Days 
Accommodation  Premium Hotel, Lodge 
Motorcycle Fleet Royal Enfield Himalayan 450cc 
Challenge Level Moderate (Techinical Mountain Riding) 
Highest Elevation 3,000m
Maximum Sleeping Altitude 3,000m
Daily Riding Average  150 kilometers 
Maximum Group Capacity 20 (pls note that the given price is for group of 6 riders onwards 
Physical Fitness Required Moderate Condition 

 

Highlights

  • Ride Across Bhutan's Hidden Backroads – Experience a rare motorcycle journey through Bhutan's remote eastern and central regions, far from the usual tourist routes.
  • Guwahati to Bagdogra Point-to-Point Adventure – Begin your expedition in India and cross the Kingdom of Bhutan from east to west, ending with a scenic transfer to Bagdogra.
  • Explore Remote Eastern Bhutan – Ride through the untouched landscapes of Samdrup Jongkhar, Nganglam, and Panbang, surrounded by dense forests, rivers, and rural villages.
  • Spectacular Himalayan Mountain Roads – Enjoy thrilling winding roads, high mountain passes, and unforgettable riding experiences through Bhutan's diverse terrain.
  • Panbang Wilderness Experience – Discover one of Bhutan's least-explored regions, known for pristine forests, riverside landscapes, and rich biodiversity.
  • Ride Through Dramatic Landscapes – Experience a remarkable transformation from subtropical lowlands to alpine valleys as you climb from eastern Bhutan to the Himalayan highlands.
  • Scenic Ride to Phobjikha Valley – Journey through Tingtibi and Trongsa before reaching the breathtaking glacial valley of Phobjikha, famous for its peaceful meadows and traditional villages.
  • Cross High Himalayan Passes – Ride over Pele La Pass (3,420 m) and Dochula Pass (3,100 m), adorned with colourful prayer flags and offering spectacular mountain views.
  • Discover Bhutan's Cultural Heritage – Visit magnificent landmarks including Punakha Dzong, Buddha Dordenma, and the ancient temples of Paro.
  • Hike to the Legendary Tiger's Nest Monastery – Experience Bhutan's most iconic attraction, dramatically perched on a cliffside above Paro Valley.
  • Authentic Bhutanese Village Experiences – Ride through charming villages and witness traditional lifestyles, architecture, and the peaceful rhythm of Bhutanese life.
  • A Perfect Short Himalayan Escape – Designed for adventure riders with limited holiday time, combining exhilarating rides, cultural discovery, and breathtaking scenery in just seven days.

Included/Excluded

  • Accommodation on a twin-sharing basis in comfortable 3-star equivalent hotels and lodges
  • All meals throughout the expedition (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
  • Airport pickup from Guwahati, India in a comfortable private vehicle
  • Airport drop-off service to Bagdogra, India in a comfortable private vehicle
  • Pre-arranged Bhutan visa and entry permit assistance
  • Services of an experienced local road captain throughout the expedition
  • Royal Enfield Himalayan motorcycle (Himalayan 450cc or Himalayan 411cc) for the entire tour duration
  • Fuel / gasoline for the motorcycle throughout the expedition
  • All hotel taxes and service charges
  • Experienced motorcycle mechanic support throughout the journey
  • Backup spare parts and basic mechanical support
  • Dedicated backup vehicle (truck, jeep, or van) for luggage transportation and support
  • First Aid Kit and basic medical support
  • Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): US$100 per person per day
  • Required internal route permits
  • Bottled drinking water throughout the expedition
  • Monument entrance fees, including Tiger's Nest Monastery
  • Any air tickets (domestic or international flights)
  • Indian visa (a double-entry visa is recommended for international travelers)
  • Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, mechanics, or support staff
  • Single room supplement: US$270 per person
  • Pillion rider charges
  • Personal beverages and drinks
  • Motorcycle damage due to accident, negligence, or abnormal use (wear and tear)
  • Personal riding gear and equipment
  • Any expenses of a personal nature not mentioned under "Services Included"

Itinerary

Your Bhutan adventure begins with an early morning flight from Delhi to Guwahati, the gateway to Northeast India. Upon arrival, meet our representative and embark on a scenic drive towards Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan's eastern gateway, nestled along the Indo–Bhutan border.

As you leave behind the bustling city of Guwahati, the landscape gradually transforms into lush forests, rolling hills, and picturesque countryside, offering your first glimpse of the pristine natural beauty that defines the Kingdom of Bhutan.

Upon reaching the border, complete the Indian exit formalities followed by Bhutanese immigration procedures. As you cross into the Land of the Thunder Dragon, you'll immediately notice the peaceful atmosphere, traditional architecture, and immaculate surroundings that make Bhutan truly unique.

After checking into your hotel, spend the evening at leisure, exploring the tranquil frontier town or simply relaxing before the adventure ahead.

Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Hotel in Samdrup Jongkhar

After an early breakfast, gear up for your first day of riding through Bhutan. Today's journey leads deep into one of the country's most remote and least-explored regions, offering an authentic experience of Bhutan's untouched wilderness.

Ride along the scenic eastern highway towards Nganglam, following winding roads through dense subtropical forests, rolling hills, and charming rural villages. This route is a delight for adventure riders, featuring sweeping bends, occasional climbs, and spectacular scenery throughout the journey. Keep an eye out for cascading waterfalls, colourful birdlife, and the rich biodiversity that makes eastern Bhutan so remarkable.

By afternoon, arrive in the peaceful riverside town of Panbang, beautifully situated on the banks of the Drangme Chhu River and surrounded by pristine forests. After checking into your lodge, unwind and enjoy the serenity of this hidden gem, far from the usual tourist trail.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Lodge in Panbang

Begin the day early as you ride from the lush subtropical forests of Panbang to the spectacular alpine landscapes of Phobjikha Valley. Today's route is among Bhutan's most scenic, showcasing dramatic changes in elevation, climate, and scenery.

Depart Panbang and ride past the impressive Panbang Twin Waterfalls before continuing through Tingtibi along winding mountain roads that weave through dense forests and pristine wilderness. Along the way, keep watch for the elusive Golden Langur, one of Bhutan's rarest and most iconic primates, found only in select Himalayan forests.

Arrive in the historic town of Trongsa, the ancestral home of Bhutan's Royal Family, where you'll enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant.

The journey continues with an exhilarating ascent to Pele La Pass (3,420 metres), one of Bhutan's highest motorable mountain passes. Colourful prayer flags flutter in the crisp mountain air as panoramic Himalayan views reward your climb. From the pass, descend through forests of dwarf bamboo and rhododendron before arriving in the breathtaking glacial valley of Phobjikha, renowned for its sweeping meadows, traditional villages, and peaceful atmosphere.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and spend the evening soaking in the tranquil surroundings.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Hotel in Phobjikha Valley

After breakfast, ride towards Bhutan's vibrant capital, Thimphu, via the picturesque Punakha Valley.
En route, visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most iconic fortresses, dramatically located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Enjoy a delicious lunch in the beautiful Punakha Valley before continuing towards Thimphu via the spectacular Dochula Pass (3,100 metres).

Adorned with its famous 108 memorial chortens, Dochula Pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas on clear days. Spend some time admiring the scenery before descending into the Thimphu Valley.

Before reaching the city, visit the impressive Buddha Dordenma, the 54-metre-tall gilded Buddha statue overlooking the valley and one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world.

Arrive in Thimphu, check into your hotel, and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

After breakfast, ride through the scenic Paro Valley, home to Bhutan's most celebrated landmark.

Upon arrival, begin the hike to the legendary Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest Monastery), dramatically perched on a cliffside at an altitude of 3,120 metres. The hike takes approximately 2–3 hours through fragrant pine forests to the famous cafeteria viewpoint. From there, descend a series of steps before making the final ascent to the monastery.

Explore this sacred Buddhist site while enjoying breathtaking views across the valley. The return hike takes approximately 1–2 hours.

Later, enjoy free time exploring Paro Town, where you can browse traditional handicraft shops, relax at charming cafés, or simply admire the beautiful Bhutanese architecture.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Hotel in Paro

After breakfast, begin your final ride through Bhutan as you journey towards Phuntsholing, the bustling border town adjoining India.

The route gradually descends from the cool Himalayan valleys into the warm subtropical foothills, offering dramatic changes in both scenery and climate. En route, stop for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing towards Phuntsholing.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the evening at leisure. You may wish to explore the lively streets of the town or enjoy some last-minute shopping before concluding your Himalayan adventure.

Today's ride marks the memorable finale of an unforgettable motorcycle expedition through Bhutan.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Hotel in Phuntsholing

After breakfast, bid farewell to the Kingdom of Bhutan and begin your overland journey to Bagdogra Airport for your onward flight to Delhi.

Complete Bhutanese exit formalities followed by Indian immigration procedures before continuing the scenic drive to Bagdogra Airport, which takes approximately 4–5 hours.

To ensure a comfortable and stress-free transfer, we recommend booking an evening flight from Bagdogra, allowing ample time for border formalities and the drive to the airport.

As your journey comes to an end, take home unforgettable memories of riding through Bhutan's majestic mountain passes, serene valleys, ancient monasteries, and vibrant cultural landscapes.

Your Bhutan Motorcycle Expedition concludes here. Thank you for travelling with us. We wish you a safe journey home and look forward to welcoming you on another unforgettable adventure soon.

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: $2,562.00

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