13-Day Motorcycle Tour in Bhutan

Travelers seeking an unforgettable way to explore Bhutan might find this 13-day motorcycle tour offered by Bhutan Rides to be a perfect fit. Specializing in Royal Enfield rides across the Kingdom, this journey combines scenic Himalayan roads with cultural stops, providing a balanced mix of adventure and insight. With a relaxed pace, excellent guides, and stunning vistas, it promises a memorable experience for those comfortable on a bike and eager to see Bhutan beyond the usual tourist spots.

One of the standout features we love about this tour is how it seamlessly blends riding with cultural discovery—think ancient fortresses, vibrant temples, and interactions with local communities. The support crew, including an experienced guide and mechanic, ensures a smooth ride even through Bhutan’s sometimes challenging terrain. However, it’s worth noting that the price, at around $3,280 per person, reflects the comprehensive nature of the trip, including accommodations, meals, and all transportation.

This tour is best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness, a love for riding, and an interest in seeing Bhutanese traditions. If you’re after a combination of adventure, comfort, and cultural authenticity, this could be the trip for you. Just keep in mind that a certain level of riding comfort and stamina is needed to enjoy the full itinerary.

Key Points

• Authentic Bhutan Experience: Combines scenic rides with visits to temples, fortresses, and rural communities.
• Comfortable Accommodations: Hotels, farmhouses, and campsites are chosen for a cozy yet authentic stay.
• Expert Support: Guides and support vehicles ensure safety and hassle-free riding.
• Balanced Pace: Shorter rides on some days, longer scenic routes on others, suitable for most travelers with moderate fitness.
• Rich Cultural Encounters: Opportunities to see monasteries, historical sites, and local lifestyles.
• Value for Money: All-inclusive price covers transport, accommodation, meals, and taxes, offering a comprehensive Bhutan experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting in Paro: Historic Beginnings and Mountain Views

Your journey begins in Paro, where you’re introduced to your Royal Enfield motorcycle after a warm welcome and briefing. The first day’s ride to the Paro Valley is gentle, measuring about five hours in total. Visiting Drugyel Dzong, a fortress of historical importance, offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s resistance history and stunning views of Mt Chomolhari on clear days. Reviewers note that this first ride is perfect for easing into the trip, especially if jetlagged.

Haa Valley: Short and Sweet Intro Ride

The next day takes you over Chelela Pass to the Haa Valley, a scenic 70 km on quiet tarmac roads. It’s a manageable start that allows you to enjoy Bhutan’s lush landscapes without fatigue. As one reviewer mentioned, the ride was “easy,” making it ideal for riders who want a relaxed introduction to Bhutan’s roads and scenery.

Punakha: A Scenic 160 km Ride

Day three ramps up the adventure with a longer, more scenic ride to Punakha. The route is renowned for its undulating roads and minimal traffic until reaching Chuzom, where traffic increases. The highlight is crossing Dochula Pass—offering panoramic mountain views. One traveler praised the roads as “some of the best for motorcycling in Bhutan,” emphasizing that this stretch gives riders an authentic Himalayan feel.

Exploring Punakha & Gasa: Cultural and Natural Highlights

The following day offers a more relaxed ride around Punakha, visiting the Dzong fortress and hiking to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Stupa. The day includes a trip to Gasa Hot Springs, providing a chance to relax and soak in natural thermal waters—a favorite among reviewers for its restorative quality after days of riding.

From Trongsa to Bumthang: Rural Life and Historic Sites

A scenic route over Pelela Pass takes you to Trongsa, where the Trongsa Tower Museum stands out as a highlight. It’s praised for its modern displays and stunning views. Visiting a traditional farmhouse in Tangsibje offers a true taste of Bhutanese hospitality and rural life.

In Bumthang, the mix of temples, palaces, and the Jambay and Kurjey Lhakhangs immerses you in Bhutan’s spiritual core. A reviewer highlighted that the Tower of Trongsa Museum is “currently the best in the Kingdom,” providing fascinating context for Bhutan’s history. The region’s four major valleys are accessible for exploration, with hiking options recommended for those who want a break from riding.

Phobjikha Valley and Gangtey: Nature and Conservation

The journey continues to Phobjikha Valley, a glacier-carved landscape famous for its black-necked crane winter migration. It’s praised for its “beautiful open valley” and thriving wildlife. Visitors often mention the tranquility and natural beauty of this area, with some engaging in birdwatching or local textile shopping.

A rest day here includes a visit to Gangtey Monastery, where a gentle hike allows you to soak in the mountain scenery and local culture. Reviewers loved the relaxed pace and the chance to enjoy nature at a mellow pace.

Thimphu: The Capital’s Blend of Tradition and Modernity

The ride into Thimphu offers stunning mountain views and stops at Lobesa for a hearty lunch. The city itself combines traditional monasteries like Tango and Cheri with modern markets and vibrant street life. The guided visits, including the Simtokha Dzong and local vegetable markets, give an authentic taste of urban Bhutan.

Final Days and Tigers Nest: Iconic Viewpoints

On the last riding day, you’ll visit the world-famous Tigers Nest Monastery (Taktsang Gompa). The hike is praised as a “great way to end” the trip. For those with moderate fitness, the viewpoint offers plenty of photo opportunities; for the more energetic, a longer hike to the monastery itself is available. Reviewers note that the view of this cliff-hugging monastery is truly breathtaking.

Departure: Reflecting on the Journey

The tour concludes with an early morning transfer to Paro Airport, leaving travelers with a sense of achievement and a treasure trove of memories. The entire experience, from scenic rides to cultural insights, is designed to offer value for money, considering all inclusions—meals, accommodations, guide, and support.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Transportation & Support

The tour uses Royal Enfield motorcycles, known for their classic style and durability. A backup vehicle with a mechanic is part of the package, providing peace of mind as you navigate Bhutan’s sometimes winding and unpredictable roads. The group size is private, meaning you get personalized attention and a flexible schedule.

Accommodations & Meals

Expect a mix of comfortable hotels, cozy farmhouses, and campsites. Meals are included, with a variety of Bhutanese and international options—reviewers appreciated the chance to enjoy local food paired with good wine choices. The trip is paced so you can enjoy leisurely evenings after full days of riding.

Cost & Value

At $3,280 per person, this all-inclusive tour covers all taxes, visa fees, meals, and accommodation, representing good value for those wanting an immersive, hassle-free adventure. It’s especially appealing for travelers who value expert guidance, well-maintained bikes, and authentic cultural encounters.

What’s Not Included

Airfare, personal expenses, beverages, tips, and travel insurance are not included, so budget accordingly. Travelers should also note the moderate physical fitness required—some days involve longer rides and hikes.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

From the reviews, we see that guides like Pelden are praised for their kindness and knowledge, making the journey smooth and engaging. Riders appreciated the stunning scenery—from mountain vistas to lush valleys—and the chance to interact with Bhutanese people, who are described as “always kind and smiling.”

Many reviewers highlighted the quality of the motorcycles and the thoughtful organization, which allowed them to focus on riding and sightseeing. The included visits to monasteries, temples, and cultural sites helped deepen their understanding of Bhutan’s traditions, elevating this from a mere adventure to a meaningful cultural experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This 13-day motorcycle adventure is ideal for riders with a moderate fitness level who appreciate scenic drives and culture. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of adventure and comfort, with well-organized support and authentic Bhutanese experiences. If you’re looking for a trip that combines spectacular views, historical sites, and relaxed evenings, this tour ticks all those boxes.

However, riders should be prepared for some physically active days, including hikes like the ascent to Tigers Nest. The pace is leisurely but not slow—making it suitable for travelers who enjoy riding but also want downtime to absorb the surroundings.

The Sum Up

This Bhutan motorcycle tour offers a rare chance to explore the Kingdom’s landscapes, traditions, and history from the seat of a classic bike. The combination of scenic routes, welcoming accommodations, and expert guides creates a well-rounded experience that balances adventure with cultural insight. It’s best suited for travelers who love riding, want to see Bhutan’s highlights, and enjoy authentic interactions with locals.

While the price reflects the comprehensive nature of the trip, many reviewers agree that the value lies in the quality of the experience, the stunning vistas, and the personal touches from the Bhutan Rides team. This tour isn’t just a ride; it’s an invitation to see Bhutan through an exciting, memorable lens—one that many will cherish long after their motorcycle helmet is hung up.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price of $3,280 covers Bhutan tourism taxes, all transfers, accommodations, guide services, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), visa fees, and support vehicle with mechanic.

Are flights included?
No, flights are not included. You will need to arrange your own airfare to and from Paro Airport.

What type of motorcycle is used?
The tour uses Royal Enfield motorcycles, known for their reliability and classic style, ideal for Bhutan’s varied terrains.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
The tour is best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some days involve longer rides and occasional hikes. Basic riding experience is recommended.

How much riding is involved daily?
Riding days vary from around 4 to 6 hours, with some shorter days designed for cultural visits and relaxation, providing a comfortable pace for most riders.

What kind of accommodations should I expect?
Expect a mix of comfortable hotels, traditional farmhouses, and campsites. All are chosen for authenticity and comfort.

Can I participate if I prefer not to ride every day?
Since this is a motorcycle-focused tour, participation requires riding, but support vehicles and flexible itineraries mean you can opt out of some rides if needed, especially on rest days in places like Gangtey or Thimphu.

This motorcycle adventure in Bhutan offers a perfect blend of scenic exploration, cultural discovery, and authentic riding. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious traveler eager for a different perspective, this trip promises unforgettable Himalayan views and stories to tell for years.