14 days
From US $6,195
Bhutanese Dragon Bike Tour
Immerse yourself in a wholesome cycling holiday in Bhutan, where the enchanting beauty of the land will leave you awe-inspired. With a sky painted in an indescribable shade of blue and breathtaking vistas of majestic mountains, Bhutan is a topographical wonder like no other. The sight of monasteries perched on hilltops and traditional white-washed houses adorned with vibrant windows will captivate your senses.
As you pedal through this surreal landscape, you will find yourself breathless, not just from the altitude but from the sheer magnificence of your surroundings. Surrender to the warm hospitality of the Bhutanese people, who will embrace you with open arms. Take the time to savor every moment, allowing the serenity of the surroundings to wash over you and create lasting memories of this extraordinary destination.
Paro
Paro
casual
challenging
50km or 30mi
8
Highlights
diverse topography
Soak into the stunning and dramatically diverse topography of Bhutan. In between the mountains and the plains are highlands, meadows, valleys, and gorges criss-crossed by numerous rivers. This makes every day on a Bhutan bike tour a novel experience.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Thimphu | Thimphu Tower | L,D | ||
| DAY 2 | Thimphu | Thimphu Tower | B,L,D | 40km/24mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Punakha | Hotel Lobesa | B,L,D | 65km/39mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Punakha | Hotel Lobesa | B,L,D | 30km/18mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Phobjikha Valley | Gakiling | B,L,D | 70km/42mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Phobjikha Valley | Gakiling | B,L,D | 20km/12mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Trongsa | Yangkhil resort | B,L,D | 50km/30mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Bumthang Valley | Gongkhar guesthouse | B,L,D | 50km/30mi | cycling |
| DAY 9 | Bumthang Valley | Gongkhar guesthouse | B,L,D | ||
| DAY 10 | Fly to Paro | Metta Resort | B,L,D | ||
| DAY 11 | Haa Valley | Ugyen Homestay | B,L,D | 50km/30mi | cycling |
| DAY 12 | Haa Valley | Ugyen Homestay | B,L,D | hiking | |
| DAY 13 | Paro | Metta Resort | B,L,D | hiking | |
| DAY 14 | Paro | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Thimphu
Enjoy a flight to Bhutan over a stack of snow-topped mountains for a large part of the journey. Pray for a clear sunny day for a stunning view! Here we’ll be greeted by Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga, as well as Bhutan's unique peaks, Mt. Jomolhari and Mt. Jichu Drakey. To enhance your Himalayan range vistas, please ensure that you are seated on the left side of the aisle.
We meet at the Paro airport and drive to Thimphu. During the journey, make a stop to explore Tamchog Lhakang and enjoy a brief respite in Bhutan's pristine natural environment. We'll have the opportunity to stroll across the historic iron bridge, which has been faithfully reconstructed using the original chain links crafted by the renowned Tibetan bridge builder TangThong Gyalpo in the 15th century.
On arrival at Thimphu, we do a bike fit and later in the evening, visit the Memorial Chorten Stupa, a revered monument erected in honor of Bhutan's third king. Following this visit, savor a delightful welcome dinner at a top-notch restaurant, followed by briefing.
Day 2: Thimphu
Today we warm up with a short ride around Thimphu. Visit museums, textile weavers, post offices, and markets, and watch archery at the stadium. After lunch, we ride north on tarmac roads passing through Thimphu’s various residential neighborhoods and surrounding villages. On the way back, visit the Changangkha Lhakhang and Trashichhodzong Fortress, a fine example of Bhutan’s rich architecture that holds the office of His Majesty the King and the Prime Minister.
We have a few options on this day for cycling, and our cycling guide will take a call.
Altitude:
600m easy ascends
800m easy descends
Day 3: Punakha
We take up with a bit longer ride to balmy Punakha over the mountains. The route takes us through apple orchards and pine forests and passes through Dochu La Pass (3,140m). The landscape changes dramatically from here to rhododendron forest and fir. Take in the breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan ranges from the mountain pass, and then explore the Druk Wangyal Chortens, a series of 108 stupas constructed to symbolize the remarkable legacy of the Fourth King.
After a lengthy descent, we continue our journey along a picturesque stretch of rolling roads that run alongside the river, eventually leading us to Punakha, a picturesque settlement where you can see small stands of apple orchards and locals busying themselves over farmlands.
Day 4: Punakha
Today, enjoy a beautiful countryside ride visiting ancient fortresses, suspension bridges, paddy fields, temples and a school. Soak your feet in the glacial rivers over a picnic lunch.
Post-lunch visit Punakha Dzong. Sitting majestically at the confluence of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
From here, head towards the longest suspension bridge, then proceed northwards to Samdingkha along a charming expanse of rural roads. Afterward, continue riding further towards Khuruthang town before returning to the hotel, completing a pleasant loop.
Altitude: 500m+ / 700m -
Day 5: Phobjikha Valley
The landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation as we transition from the lush valley to the wetlands in the Nobding valley. Having cycled through enchanting rhododendron forests for most of our journey, the stark contrast of descending into the distinctive open marshlands of the valley is truly remarkable.
Along the way, cross Lha Wang La Pass for a glimpse of Phobjikha Valley. This area is known for black-necked cranes. Wild boars, sambars, Himalayan black bears, leopards and red foxes are also there in surrounding hills.
Day 6: Phobjikha Valley
Phobjikha valley is a paradise for bikers and today enjoy a ride on beautiful single-track trails that traverses through pine-forests festooned with prayer flags and overlooking the bowl-shaped marshland and meadows. Visit the famous Gangtey Gompa monastery and the Black-necked Crane Information Centre on the way.
Today's ride will be a short one. We have a few options for the exact route we cycle, and our guide will take a call.
Altitude: 300m+ / 400m -
Day 7: Trongsa
Today we ride to Trongsa past gorges, meadows and through snow bound passes connecting east to west of Bhutan. The town is based on a steep ridge and commands spectacular views of the valleys.
Visit Trongsa Dzong, a spectacularly sited dzong, situated atop a steep ridge with a sheer drop into the clouds on its other side.
Day 8: Bumthang Valley
Get ready for a tough yet rewarding day and ride to Bumthang valley comprising of Chokhor, Tang, Ura and Chhume valleys. It’s a long switchback route today with Yutung La Pass at 3,400m.
Day 9: Bumthang Valley
Today you can plan your own day. Spend the day at leisure or take a stroll around the Valley. Visit Kurjey Lhakhang, Jakar Dzong, and Tamshing Lhakhang.
Alternatively, ride to Ura Valley over the Shertang La Pass. Post-lunch, we drive back to Bumthang Valley.
Day 10: Fly to Paro
Enjoy a gorgeous flight to Paro and later visit Paro National Museum followed by Rinpung Dzong. Enjoy the evening shopping around for various handicrafts and artefact.
Please note that the domestic flight to Paro is available only three flights a week on Tue/Thu/Sun.
Day 11: Haa Valley
Take the switchback road to get that blood pumping over the Cheli la Pass; that panoramic views from Haa will be highly rewarding.
Day 12: Haa Valley
Today spend the day at leisure or go for a hike to nearby majestic mountain peaks.
Day 13: Paro
Today, ride to the parking lot and leave the bikes behind and hike up to the Tiger’s Nest, which overlooks the town from its perch on a sheer hill. The 17th-century monastery is a perfect place to get a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the region. Lovely Kyichu Lhakhang is another monastery worthy of your time.
During the return journey, make a stop at the remnants of the Drugyal Dzong fortress, a significant piece of Bhutanese heritage. This fortress served as a strategic watchtower and played a vital role in repelling numerous Tibetan invasions during the 1600s. On a clear day, we can catch a glimpse of the majestic Jumolhari, also known as the 'Mountain of the Goddess,' towering at 7,329 meters (24,029 feet). Afterward, proceed to the 7th-century Kichu monastery, believed to be Bhutan's earliest Buddhist monastery, established by the renowned Tibetan King Songsan Gyempo. Finally, conclude the ride by returning to the hotel.
Day 14: Paro
Today we transfer to the Paro airport.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Single Supplement
From US $1,135
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $350
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Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
trip leader
Expert Trip Leader(s) who look after your every need and add meaning to your vacation.
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
shuttle
A Van support follows the group of riders and carries all belongings.
Airport pickup and drop
Enjoy a hassle-free start and finish to your journey.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
refreshments
Refreshments and mineral water while cycling.
entrance
Entrance fees to most of the monuments and temples.
Additional Inclusions
- Sustainable Tourism Fee/Tourism Tax (US $100 per day per person)
- Visa Fees (US $40 per person)
- All necessary permit fees
- Airport pick-up and drop
- All meals
Exclusions
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.
Trek Hardtail or similar
Included in your trip price
Stella or similar
Available at a surcharge
Weather
Bhutan's climate exhibits distinct seasonal variations, making it an enchanting destination for cycling enthusiasts. The country can be broadly categorized into four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The most favorable months for cycling are during spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November). During these seasons, the weather is relatively mild, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, creating ideal conditions for cycling adventures.
In spring, Bhutan's landscape comes alive with vibrant blooms, and the cycling trails are adorned with colorful rhododendrons and other wildflowers. In particular, the lower geographic zones of Bhutan, such as the valleys and lowlands, are ideal for cycling in spring. The temperature ranges from cool to warm, providing a comfortable experience for riders exploring the picturesque valleys and rolling hills.
Similarly, autumn presents a magical spectacle as the lush greenery transforms into a stunning tapestry of gold and crimson foliage. During autumn, the higher geographic zones of Bhutan, particularly the mountainous regions, offer fantastic cycling opportunities. The weather remains dry, with refreshing temperatures, making it perfect for cyclists to traverse the diverse terrains and immerse themselves in Bhutan's rich cultural heritage.
January
Offseason
February
Mixed
March
Best
April
Best
May
Best
June
Good
July
Mixed
August
Offseason
September
Mixed
October
Best
November
Best
December
Good
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
In terms of road surface, most of this trip is on double-lane paved tarmac roads. The traffic, never much to begin with, begins to thin out as we move eastwards.
After the domestic flight to Paro, the ride from Paro to Haa is on single-lane tarmac roads which is broken at some sections. The traffic, however, continues to remain sparse.
Bhutan is a remote and sparsely populated country. As a result, the internal flight from Bumthang to Paro operates only three days a week, viz. Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday.
The tour has been designed such that Day 10 of the tour falls on any one of these 3 days of the week.
We've classified our Bhutanese Dragon Bike Tour as 'Challenging'. This means it is best suited for people who love challenging uphill climbs and relatively longer cycling distances.
Several days on this tour have average elevation gains of more than 1,500m (4,920 ft) over 40-50 kms (25-31 mi).
Yes, your trip leader will carry bottled water or RO water in a camper in the support van for guests' use.
For guests in good physical shape, altitude sickness is rare. However, if you're unsure or coming from sea level, we recommend starting Diamox (Acetazolamide) about three days before arrival to help with acclimatization. If symptoms persist, the best solution is to descend to a lower altitude using our support vehicle.
Yes, we have e-bikes available for this trip. Our e-bikes are Stella or of an equivalent brand, and are of high-quality.
Yes, e-bike batteries can be charged at the hotels you're staying in.
Once fully charged, the e-bike batteries can last one full day.
No, but we'll charge the batteries over lunch to ensure glitch-free riding.
Yes, please communicate your dietary preferences to your trip leader and they'll ensure that the food you eat is spiced as per your requirements.
Yes, airport transfers are included in the price for this tour.
We are not medical advisors, and as such are not qualified to dispense medical advice. However, we recommend consulting the resources below for advice on vaccines and medications:
- CDC portal for travelers from the US
- NHS' Fit For Travel portal for travelers from the UK
- Smart Traveller portal or travelers from Australia.
In addition to the above, you may also refer to the travel advice issued from time to time by your government.
Tips are not included in your tour price.
As a general rule, you may tip US$ 15-25 per person per day.
This figure is for the entire crew including the trip leader, the driver, and other support staff.
However, you are not obligated to tip, and you can always tip less or more than the above amount depending on the level of service you received on tour.
It is usually the norm to tip the tour guide, who then distributes the amount among the entire crew. However, you can also tip each individual member of the crew if you so desire.
In case you want to tip the staff at a hotel such as porters, you may pay them US $2-3 per day.
Bhutan is a small country with limited infrastructure. It is best if you exchange currency upon your arrival in Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan and the location of its main international airport. ATMs are available in Thimphu that accept major international credit cards that have either Visa or Mastercard enabled.
Yes, you may wear riding shorts while riding your bike. When not cycling, it would be advisable to wear comfortable full-length pants. We recommend keeping a pair of comfortable pants handy in you support van.
When visiting temples and monuments, visitors should wear full-length, loose-fitting pants. Holy places of certain religions may also require covering your head. Your guide will inform of the dress etiquette required for visiting specific religious places.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
We don't have anything planned for the last day, so you are free to depart at your discretion.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.
