BEYOND BORDERS: BHUTAN’S MYSTICAL MOTORBIKE JOURNEY

Day 1: Arrival in Phuentsholing

Elevation: 250m
Arrive at Phuentsholing, the bustling border town between India and Bhutan. Meet your guide and complete immigration formalities before checking into your hotel. Phuentsholing serves as an introduction to Bhutan, with its fusion of Indian and Bhutanese cultures. Spend the evening exploring the town and preparing for the journey ahead.
Overnight: Hotel Lhaki, Phuentsholing.

Day 2: Phuentsholing to Paro

Distance: 142 km | Time: 4.5–5 hrs | Elevation: 2280m
The ride to Paro begins with winding roads flanked by lush greenery and picturesque villages. En route, visit the SangyeMigyur Ling Lhakhang, a nine-story tower symbolizing the trials of Milarepa, a revered Tibetan saint. Continue your journey through scenic landscapes to Paro, home to Bhutan’s only international airport. In the afternoon, visit Rinpung Dzong, an architectural marvel known as the “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels.” End the day exploring Paro town.
Overnight: Hotel Golden Paddyfield or ShomoChuki Resort.

Day 3: Paro - Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery - Ride to Thimphu

Distance: 75 km | Time: 1.5 hrs | Elevation: 2320m
Begin your day with a hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (TaktshangGoemba), perched 900m above Paro Valley. The trek is both challenging and rewarding, offering spectacular views of the valley below and a sense of spiritual accomplishment. After descending, ride to Thimphu, Bhutan’s bustling capital. Visit local markets and enjoy the evening exploring the city.
Overnight: Hotel Pelyang Boutique or similar.

Day 4: Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass

Distance: 77 km | Time: 2.5 hrs | Elevation: 1250m
Start the day with a visit to Buddha Point, where a towering Buddha statue overlooks Thimphu Valley. Ride through the stunning Dochula Pass (3140m), adorned with 108 chortens and offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. Continue to Punakha, where you’ll visit the Chimmi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple) and the majestic Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
Overnight: Hotel Lobesa or similar.

Day 5: Punakha to Phobjikha Valley

Distance: 78 km | Time: 3 hrs | Elevation: 2900m
Ride through lush forests and scenic mountain roads to the serene Phobjikha Valley, a glacial valley and winter home to the black-necked cranes. Visit GangteyGoemba, a prominent monastery, and the Black-Necked Crane Center, which provides insights into these endangered birds. Enjoy a short hike to a valley viewpoint before relaxing for the evening.
Overnight: PhuntshoYangkhil Lodge or similar.

Day 6: Phobjikha to Bumthang via Pelela Pass

Distance: 190 km | Time: ~5.5 hrs | Elevation: ~2580m
Ride through the high-altitude Pelela Pass (3423m) to Bumthang, Bhutan’s cultural heartland. En route, stop at Trongsa Dzong, a fortress that once controlled the central regions of Bhutan. Arrive in Bumthang, known for its sacred temples and spiritual ambiance.
Overnight: Kaila Guest House or similar.

Day 7: Bumthang to Mongar

Distance: 198 km | Time: 7 hrs | Elevation: ~1600m

Today’s ride is a long and thrilling one as you traverse the Thrumshing La Pass, the highest pass on this route at an elevation of 3780m. The winding roads cut through lush forests, offering breathtaking views of distant mountains and valleys. Descending into Mongar, the landscape changes to subtropical forests and terraced fields. Mongar is one of Bhutan’s newer towns, yet it retains a traditional charm with its small market streets and friendly locals.

Overnight: Hotel in Mongar.

Day 8: Day Excursion to Khoma Village

Distance: 76 km (round trip) | Time: 3 hrs each way | Elevation: ~1600m

Take a scenic ride to Khoma Village in the remote Lhuentse region, known for its intricate handwoven textiles called Kishuthara. These vibrant, intricately designed fabrics are woven by women in small textile cottages, a tradition passed down for generations. Witness the weaving process and interact with the villagers to gain insight into their craft and lifestyle. After exploring the village, ride back to Mongar, soaking in the serene countryside views along the way.

Overnight: Hotel in Mongar.

Day 9: Mongar to Trashigang

Distance: 91 km | Time: 3–4 hrs | Elevation: ~1070m

The ride to Trashigang is a scenic descent through winding mountain roads, offering views of lush valleys and pristine rivers. Visit the quaint Rangshikhar Village, located on a hilltop, and its modest monastery frequented by locals for prayers. Continue to Trashigang Dzong, a fortress perched dramatically above the Dangmechu River. This historic dzong has been the political and administrative stronghold of eastern Bhutan for over 300 years.

Overnight: Hotel in Trashigang.

Day 10: Trashigang to Samdrupjongkhar

Distance: ~180 km | Time: 6 hrs | Elevation: ~200m

Ride through the rugged eastern landscapes to Samdrupjongkhar, Bhutan’s gateway to the plains of India. Along the way, stop at Barshong Village to visit the Karma ThegsumDechenling Monastery, a relatively new monastery showcasing traditional Bhutanese architecture. The ride offers a mix of mountain roads and subtropical terrain as you near the lowlands. Samdrupjongkhar is a vibrant border town that serves as a perfect place to reflect on your journey across Bhutan.

Overnight: Hotel in Samdrupjongkhar.

Day 11: Departure from Samdrupjongkhar

Bid farewell to Bhutan as you leave your motorbike in Samdrupjongkhar. Cross the border into India and continue your onward journey. As you look back on your adventure, you’ll carry unforgettable memories of Bhutan’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and the thrill of riding through one of the world’s most exclusive destinations.