If you are looking for biking wonders Bhutan is definitely bikers’ paradise, look no further. The riding in Bhutan is blissfully diverse and always interesting, with stunning views, little traffic on good paved roads and pristine nature. The route passes through mountains, valleys and some beautiful passes adorned with prayers flags. On this trip, you will cycle from Paro to Haa, Thimphu and then to Punakha, stopping to visit Dzongs, monasteries and absorbing the local culture.
The Punakha valley offers both the grandeur of the Dzong and thrilling rafting adventures on the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu Rivers.
Trip Facts
Arrive Paro by Drukair or Bhutan Airlines. You’ll be greeted at the airport by our representative and taken to your hotel for little rest. Later in the afternoon, you will enjoy cycling in Paro Valley and on the road to Drugyel Dzong.
After breakfast, you will begin full day’s ride to Haa Valley. The road is mostly ascents till Chele La Pass 3810 meters. You can take well-deserved rest at the pass and enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayas. From here, you will ride downhill through the forests of blue pine, fir and oak till you arrive Haa, which has only recently been opened to tourists. Overnight heritage lodge in Haa.
Today, you will ride to Thimphu, capital city of Bhutan through beautiful villages and pine forests. It is a pleasurable ride, with many optional stops along the road. After passing Dobji Dzong, the road descends and joins the main highway at Chhuzom. Enjoy riding on double lane road alongside Wangchu River. The impressive Thimphu gate welcomes you to downtown Thimphu where you will mingle with locals and absorb their lifestyle.
Today you will explore few landmarks in the outskirt of the town via cycling, including Buddha Statue, Telecom Tower and Dodena.
Today you will have wonderful ride to Punakha overDochu la pass (3140 m) adorned with its 108 stupas with amazing view of the Himalayas. You will ride downhill into Punakha valley through the forests of rhododendron, fir, hemlock and some settlements alongside the road.
Chimi lhakhang built in 1499 by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, popularly known as “The divine madman”. This temple is also known as “The temple of fertility”.
The Punakha valley offers both the grandeur of the Dzong and thrilling rafting adventures on the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu Rivers. Begin your day with a drive from Khuruthang to the opposite side of the river, reaching the Suspension Bridge, the longest in Bhutan, stretching over 180 feet. Crossing this impressive bridge, embark on a scenic 2 hours hike through pine forests and farmlands until you reach the Put-in point known as Samdhingkha, where your rafting crew awaits. After a brief safety briefing, set off on your rafting expedition, navigating through exhilarating class 2 and 4 rapids. Along the way, marvel at the diverse birdlife and observe locals tending to their fields as you glide downstream.
Conclude your rafting adventure at the end of the Dzong, where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch before freshening up at your hotel. Later, immerse yourself inthe vibrant festivities at the Dzong. Spend the night at your hotel in Punakha, relishing the day’s memorable experiences.
After lunch visit Punakha dzong built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Punakha is the winter residence of Je Khenpo. Later visit suspension bridge over Phochu river.
After lunch drive to Talo village and visit the monastery. On the way back ride your bike and enjoy the serene and winding road with beautiful view of Punakha valley.
In the morning, ride to Paro. If you are not up to pedaling uphill on the same road, you can sit back in support vehicle till Dochula pass. From Dochula, you can ride downhill till Thimphu and further to Paro.We occasionally stop on the way to take pictures.
Lunch will be served on the way.
You will conclude your stay in Bhutan by with a hike to the Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) monastery, the most famous pilgrim site, which clings to the rock at 3180m. According to the legend, it is believed that Guru Rimpoche, the 8th century Spiritual Master, flew to this location on the back of a tigress to meditate.
After breakfast, you will drive to the airport for departure. Our representative will bid you farewell.
