BHUTAN / Gross National Happiness / Map
Druk Yul - Ride the Dragon - Bhutan Motorcycle Tour Itinerary
| Day 1 | Delhi - Bagdogra – Phuntsholing: Early in the morning, we fly from Delhi to Bagdogra. Here, we are picked up by Tenzin, our guide. We continue by car for about 3 hours through the plains of West Bengal to the border town of Bhutan, Phuntsholing (160 km in the plains). The border itself is a highlight, showcasing the contrast between the two countries' organization – one side is chaotic and anarchic, while the other is tightly controlled by the Bhutanese king. Enjoy your first evening in Bhutan. |
| Day 2 | Phuntsholing to Paro (180 km): Depart from Phuntsholing and ride towards Paro. The journey takes us from almost 200 meters above sea level to 2300 meters, passing through subtropical and alpine forests. Enjoy scenic views as you traverse lush valleys and picturesque landscapes. A highlight at the beginning of the trip is the hike to the Tiger's Nest, the legendary monastery of Guru Rimpoche, perched on a steep cliff about 600 m above the valley. The ascent and return journey will take about 4 hours. It's well worth the hike. Overnight stay in Paro. |
| Day 3 | Chelela Pass & night in Thimphu (70 km): Ride to Chelela Pass, Bhutan's highest motorable pass (3988 m), for stunning panoramic views. Continue to Thimphu, Bhutan's unique capital city, which might be the only one without traffic lights. With a population of about 120,000 people, Thimphu offers attractions like the School of 13 Different Arts, the world's largest seated Buddha figure, and Tashichodzong, the central government building. Enjoy free time in the city in the evening. |
| Day 4 | Thimphu to Punakha (75 km): This will be an easy and beautiful day as the journey is only 70 km long and takes us over the scenic Dochola Pass (3400 m) with magnificent views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival in Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan, we will visit the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan. In the afternoon, there will be an optional excursion to the Phochu Valley. |
| Day 5 | Punakha to Jakar (205 km): Leave Punakha and embark on a scenic ride to Jakar in the Bumthang district. Ride through the stunning landscapes of the Black Mountains and enjoy the serene atmosphere and beauty of the Jakar Valley. Overnight stay in Jakar. |
| Day 6 | Jakar Sightseeing or Excursion to Tang Valley (60-100 km): Option 1: Explore the cultural sites of Jakar, including Jakar Dzong and Jambay Lhakhang. Option 2: Take an excursion to Tang Valley, known for its beautiful Ura village and Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake). Experience the traditional lifestyle and cultural richness of the region. Overnight stay in Jakar. |
| Day 7 | Jakar to Mongar (198 km): On our journey further into eastern Bhutan today, the winding mountain roads will provide a thrilling riding experience, while the breathtaking scenery along the way will leave you in awe. As we navigate through the twists and turns, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and lush forests, showcasing the natural beauty of Bhutan. The journey from Jakar to Mongar goes over Thrumshingla pass which is about 3,800 meters high. |
| Day 8 | Mongar to Tashigang (90 km): We continue our journey from Mongar to Tashigang, the largest district in Bhutan. We pass through dramatic landscapes and encounter traditional Bhutanese villages along the way. Explore Tashigang town and visit the historic Tashigang Dzong. Korila pass & Yadi Loop is on the road between Mongar & Tashigang. Optionally, for those interested, we also do a Drametsi excursion which would be an additional 40 KM round trip. |
| Day 9 | Day's Excursion to Sakten (Nomadic village) (70 km): Take a day's excursion to Sakten, a remote nomadic village nestled in the mountains. Experience the unique culture and way of life of the Brokpa people, known for their yak herding. Explore the village and interact with the friendly locals. Return to Tashigang for an overnight stay. |
| Day 10 | Tashigang to Samdrupjongkhar (180 km): Depart from Tashigang and ride towards Samdrupjongkhar, located in southeastern Bhutan. Enjoy the scenic ride through dense forests and picturesque landscapes. Overnight stay in Samdrupjongkhar. |
| Day 11 | Samdrupjongkhar to Guwahati for Delhi (120 km + Cross-border transfer): We will leave the kingdom and drive back to the Indian border. The motorcycles will be left in Bhutan, and we will continue by car to Guwahati and by flight back to Delhi. It will be a long travel day that takes us from the heights of the Dragon Kingdom to the Indian capital. After midnight, we will take the plane back home. |
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