Mystical Bhutan

Itinerary Details

1. Day 1Meet in Paro

   Welcome to Bhutan—known locally as Druk Yul, the “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” Depending on your flight schedule, you may have arrived in Paro the day before or will be landing this morning. In either case, airport pick-up is included.
   
   After lunch, it’s time to dive into the cultural heart of Paro. Start with a visit to the National Museum of Bhutan, set in a 17th-century watchtower, where exhibits of art, textiles, and sculptures offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich history. Then, head to the Rinpung Dzong—the first traditional Bhutanese fortress-monastery of the journey. With its detailed woodwork, massive stone walls, tranquil courtyards, and sacred temples, this remarkable structure blends religious significance with administrative function, and offers a striking introduction to Bhutanese architecture.
   
   In the evening, sit down to a traditional Bhutanese welcome dinner. If planning to arrive earlier than the official start date, keep in mind that Bhutan’s tourism regulations require all bookings—including accommodations—to go through a licenced travel company. Assistance is available if help is needed with pre-tour arrangements.

   • Hotel Pema Yangsel
   • Lunch and Dinner
2. Day 2Tiger's Nest Hike - Thimphu

   The journey begins with a visit to Bhutan’s most iconic landmark: the Tiger’s Nest, or Paro Taktsang. Clinging to a cliffside at 3,120 meters above sea level, this 17th-century monastery is one of the most sacred and awe-inspiring sites in the Himalayan Buddhist world.
   
   A 30-minute drive from Paro brings you to the trailhead, where the 4 km trek begins. The path climbs about 900 meters, winding through pine forests with a mix of gentle stretches and steeper switchbacks. Toward the end, a rope bridge draped in prayer flags spans a ravine beside a waterfall, leading to a final staircase that ascends to the monastery itself. Inside, explore the serene temples and soak in panoramic views of the surrounding valley.
   
   After descending the same trail, a two-hour transfer takes you to Thimphu, Bhutan’s tranquil capital nestled in a lush river valley. Though it’s the country’s largest city, Thimphu feels laid-back—there are no traffic lights, and traditional culture remains central to daily life.
   
   The afternoon is yours to unwind or wander through town, visiting shops, cafés, or cultural sites. Before dinner, there's time to get fitted on the bikes in preparation for the first ride tomorrow.

   • Hotel Gakyil
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
3. Day 3Thimphu - Punakha

   The first ride of the journey takes on a true Bhutanese cycling rite of passage: the ascent to Dochula Pass. Leaving Thimphu, the initial 5 km offer a gentle warm-up along the river before the real climb begins—18 km of steady uphill with an average gradient of about 4.5%.
   
   The road, Bhutan’s main route between Thimphu and Punakha, winds up the mountainside through dense forests and scattered highland villages. The pace is unhurried, allowing time to take in the shifting scenery and breathe in the cool mountain air. At the summit—Dochula Pass, sitting at 3,100 meters above sea level—108 chortens (sacred Buddhist monuments) stand in peaceful formation against the backdrop of the eastern Himalayas.
   
   After taking in the sweeping views and enjoying lunch at the pass, the route turns downward. A thrilling 40 km descent unfolds, following winding mountain roads all the way into the lush Punakha Valley. The day ends at a cozy hotel just outside Punakha, Bhutan’s former capital, where rest and a well-earned dinner await.

   • 41 miles
   • -3,631.9 ft
     4,701.4 ft
     8,333.3 ft
   • Damchen Riverside Resort
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

   • 

     Elevation Profile

4. Day 4Punakha -Wangdue

   Today is all about soaking in the beauty and culture of the Punakha Valley, starting with a visit to two of its most iconic landmarks—no bike required.
   
   First up is the magnificent Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most stunning fortress-monasteries. Nestled at the confluence of two rivers, it’s a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture, filled with intricate woodwork, serene courtyards, and centuries of rich history. From there, continue to Chhimi Lhakhang, a 15th-century hilltop monastery known for its blessings of fertility and protection. The trail leading up offers scenic views, and the temple itself is decorated with bold, colorful symbols believed to bring luck and ward off evil spirits.
   
   After lunch, it’s time to get back in the saddle for a relaxed and scenic ride through the heart of the valley, heading east toward Wangdue. Just 7 km into the ride comes one of the day’s highlights—a walk across a swaying metal suspension bridge over the Puna Tsang Chu River, crossed one by one for safety. The route then hugs the river, flanked by dramatic mountain views and fields of tiered rice paddies.
   
   The final stretch features a gentle climb into the peaceful Dang Chu Valley. The day ends at a cozy highland resort, perfect for unwinding after an adventure-filled day.

   • 18.6 miles
   • 515.1 ft
     1,460 ft
     944.9 ft
   • Kichu Resort Wangdue
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
5. Day 5Wangdue - Trongsa

   This morning begins with a choice: rise early for a rewarding 45 km climb to the top of Pelela Pass—one of Bhutan’s highest at 3,420 meters above sea level—or opt for a vehicle transfer straight to the summit. The ascent is long but consistent, with gradients averaging 4–5%, growing steeper in the final 9 km.
   
   No matter how the top is reached, the descent is where the fun kicks in—a thrilling 30 km ride through sweeping curves and alpine scenery, dropping into the eastern edge of Central Bhutan. At around the 70 km point, the terrain levels out briefly before continuing with another 18 km of descent into the lush Mangde Chhu River Valley.
   
   The ride ends in Trongsa, home to the largest dzong in Bhutan. Dramatically perched on a ridge, the fortress impresses with its vast maze of courtyards, passageways, and sacred temples. After time to explore this historic site, the day winds down with a well-earned rest and dinner.

   • 69 miles
   • 2,319.6 ft
     8,664.7 ft
     6,345.1 ft
   • Yangkhil Resort
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
6. Day 6Trongsa - Bumthang Valley (Jakar)

   Today marks a major milestone: the ride into the Bumthang Valley, the cultural heart of Eastern Bhutan. The journey begins with a steady 30 km climb to Yongtong La Pass, sitting at 3,450 meters above sea level. The gradient hovers around 4–5%, making for a manageable but consistent ascent. At the top, prayer flags flutter around a solitary chorten, and on a clear day, the Himalayan views stretch for miles.
   
   From the summit, the road descends through a dramatic shift in vegetation, transitioning from subalpine forests to lush, subtropical greenery. Around the 50 km mark, the route pauses at a roadside restaurant for lunch and a breather before taking on the day’s second pass—Kiki La. This one’s short and sweet, a 5 km climb that’s more gentle than grueling.
   
   The final leg of the ride drops down to the Bumthang River, then finishes with a short but steep climb to a traditional Bhutanese lodge overlooking Jakar. This scenic spot is home for the next two nights.

   • 44.7 miles
   • 1,902.9 ft
     6,049.9 ft
     4,147 ft
   • Swiss Guest House
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
7. Day 7Bumthang Valley Exploration

   After four challenging days on the bike, it’s time to give the legs a well-earned break. The morning is yours—sleep in, wander the quiet streets of Jakar, or sip tea while soaking in the calm of the Bumthang Valley. Jakar serves as the valley’s main town and trading hub, but the real draw here is spiritual: Bumthang is considered the soul of Bhutanese Buddhism, where the faith first took root in the 7th and 8th centuries.
   
   In the afternoon, explore two of the valley’s most revered temples at a relaxed pace—Kurje Lhakhang and Jambay Lhakhang—both rich in legend and history, and still active pilgrimage sites today. The day wraps up with a well-deserved celebratory dinner in honor of the journey so far. Just a word of advice—go easy on the *ara* (Bhutanese spirit)—there’s still plenty of adventure ahead.

   • Swiss Guest House
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
8. Day 8Bumthang Valley - Tang Valley

   Back in the saddle, the ride heads east into the secluded Tang Valley, less than 40 km from Bumthang but worlds away in atmosphere. It may be a shorter day on paper, but the route features three mountain passes in quick succession, along with stretches of rough, uneven road—enough to keep things interesting. The pace stays steady and relaxed, giving time to absorb the peaceful rhythm of this remote corner of Bhutan.
   
   The first climb comes around the 15 km mark, followed by a visit to the Pema Choling Nunnery—a monastic school where women of all ages devote themselves to Buddhist study and practice. The road then weaves through quiet forested hills before dropping into the Tang Valley, where the Thang Chuu River winds past rice paddies and traditional farms. A visit to a restored heritage house offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s feudal era, with displays of family heirlooms and artifacts. For the night, accommodations are simple—either a cozy guesthouse next to the heritage site or camping beneath the stars, depending on group size and availability.

   • 21.7 miles
   • 807.1 ft
     2,851 ft
     2,044 ft
   • Ogyen Choling or Campsite
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
9. Day 9Tang Valley - Ura Valley

   The day begins with a choice: either hop in the support vehicle for a one-hour transfer or ride 23 km back along yesterday’s route. Whichever option feels right, the group regathers near a small road junction by the sacred “Burning Lake”—a site rich in folklore, though its calm surface might not match its fiery name.
   
   From there, the ride heads south and upward toward the day’s main challenge: the steady 29 km climb to Serthangla Pass. With gradients averaging 4–5%, it’s a climb that rewards rhythm and patience. Settle into a comfortable gear and enjoy the increasingly dramatic views as the road climbs deeper into Eastern Bhutan. At the summit—3,550 m ASL—packed lunches are enjoyed with sweeping vistas, and on a clear day, it’s possible to spot the elusive Gangkhar Puensum, Bhutan’s tallest peak and the world’s highest unclimbed mountain.
   
   The descent into the Ura Valley is a thrilling 11 km stretch that eventually gives way to narrow village lanes edged by stone walls, traditional homes, and temples. The night is spent in a local farmstay—a cozy, authentic glimpse into life in this remote, peaceful corner of Bhutan.

   • 38.5 - 34.2 miles
   • 1,492.8 ft
     5,449.5 ft
     3,956.7 ft
   • Bangpa Heritage Farmstay
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

   • 

     Elevation Profile

10. Day 10Ura Valley - Sengor

    Leaving behind the quaint hamlets of Ura, the route reconnects with Bhutan’s Lateral Road. The day begins with two steady climbs over the first 35 km: a 17 km ascent followed by another 7 km climb, with a welcome dip in between. Gradients remain gentle, allowing for a manageable and scenic start to the day.
    
    At the summit of the second climb awaits Thrumshing La Pass—Bhutan’s second-highest mountain pass at 3,780 m ASL. If the skies are clear, panoramic views of the Donga Mountain Range stretch out in every direction. It’s the perfect spot to pause for a packed lunch and take in the high-altitude atmosphere.
    
    The descent starts off cautiously, with the road tracing a sheer cliffside, but soon the landscape shifts as dense forest envelops the way forward. From here, the ride softens into a relaxed cruise toward Sengor—a small village tucked in a lush valley surrounded by gentle hills.
    
    Depending on group size and accommodation availability, the night is spent either at a cozy local guesthouse or camping under the stars. With the village sitting at 3,000 m ASL, it’s a good idea to layer up for a chilly mountain night.

    • 34.8 miles
    • -397 ft
      5,528.2 ft
      5,925.2 ft
    • Local guesthouse or campsite
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
11. Day 11Sengor - Mongar

    Today kicks off with something truly special — a long, exhilarating descent to remember. Leaving Sengor, the route drops steadily for 60 km along the Lateral Road, shedding 4,000 metres of elevation. With a mild 3% gradient, most of the ride feels like a smooth glide, though the road does narrow at times, with tight hairpin turns and steeper pitches that call for a bit of extra attention.
    
    Around the 16 km mark, Namling Brak offers a scenic highlight — a towering cliff face with a waterfall tumbling into the valley below. Once at the bottom, the route follows the Kuri Chuu River before crossing to its eastern bank.
    
    From here, the final challenge begins: a steady 25 km climb via a series of switchbacks that lead up to Mongar, one of eastern Bhutan’s liveliest hill towns. If time allows, drop by Mongar Dzong — a relatively new monastery built in the 1950s, yet crafted in full accordance with traditional Bhutanese methods.
    
    Tonight’s accommodation brings a bit of added comfort — a welcome contrast to the more rustic lodgings of previous nights.

    • 54.1 miles
    • -4,550.5 ft
      9,117.5 ft
      13,668 ft
    • Wangchuk Hotel
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    • 

      Wangchuk Hotel

      Another night, another remarkable hotel to chill out in

    • 

      Wangchuk Hotel

      Another night, another remarkable hotel to chill out in

    • 

      Elevation Profile

12. Day 12Mongar - Trashigang

    Today’s ride wastes no time — the biggest climb of the day begins as soon as you roll out of Mongar. It’s an 18 km ascent to the top of Korila Pass, one of Bhutan’s scenic high points, marked by a serene chorten and fluttering prayer flags. From the summit, a thrilling 40 km descent follows, dropping into the Dangme Chhu River valley with a dramatic finale of tight switchbacks.
    
    The route then traces the ridge above the river for about 20 km, offering sweeping views of the densely forested gorge below. After crossing a bridge to the far side, the final challenge begins: a short but punchy 9 km climb into the hilltop town of Trashigang. With an average gradient of 7%, this section is no joke — don’t hesitate to hop in the support vehicle if needed.
    
    Tonight’s stay is at a warm, highland resort just outside Trashigang, offering panoramic views across the valley and surrounding mountains. You’ve now reached the easternmost edge of your journey across Bhutan — a milestone well worth toasting to over dinner.

    • 54.1 miles
    • -1,328.7 ft
      7,076.8 ft
      8,405.5 ft
    • Druk Dhoetjung Resort
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    • 

      Druk Deothjung Resort

      Unwind after a day of riding in a mix of modern comforts and elegant Bhutanese art

    • 

      Druk Deothjung Resort

      Unwind after a day of riding in a mix of modern comforts and elegant Bhutanese art

    • 

      Elevation Profile

13. Day 13Trashigang - Wamrong

    As your journey across Bhutan's wild mountains nears its finale, the climbs keep coming. Leaving Trashigang, you begin a steady 33 km ascent to Yonphula La Pass, home to one of the country’s few regional airports. The road climbs through a series of fiery switchbacks and winds past the quiet village of Kanglung, where terraced fields stretch across the hillsides.
    
    At the top, you’ll catch your breath before continuing on a rolling route that keeps you hovering around 2,000 m ASL. The rest of the ride rises and falls gently with the land, offering a more relaxed pace through the highlands.
    
    You’ll finish the day in Wamrong, a sleepy ridge-top town where rows of traditional Bhutanese houses cling to the mountainside, backdropped by the soft folds of the Himalayan foothills. Depending on availability and group size, you’ll either stay in a local guesthouse or camp out under the stars.

    • 51 miles
    • 3,057.7 ft
      10,459.3 ft
      7,401.6 ft
    • Local guesthouse or Campsite
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    • 

      Elevation Profile

14. Day 14Wamrong - Samdrup JongKhar

    You’ve made it to the home stretch! On your final riding day, you’ll witness a stunning shift in landscape as you descend from the eastern Himalayas—over 2,000 meters above sea level—down to the edge of the Assam Plain, nearly at sea level.
    
    Leaving Wamrong, the first 50 km unfold as a mix of rolling hills, with the longest climb stretching around 15 km at a manageable 3–4% grade. There are some nice descents early on, but they’re just the warm-up for what’s to come—a sweeping 50 km downhill that takes you all the way into Bhutan’s tropical lowlands near the Indian border.
    
    You’ll cruise into Samdrup Jongkhar, a sleepy border town affectionately nicknamed the “Yellow Town” for the warm hue of its buildings. That evening, gather with your fellow riders for a well-earned farewell dinner to toast the incredible achievement of cycling across Bhutan from west to east!

    • 59.7 miles
    • -6,473.1 ft
      8,743.4 ft
      15,216.5 ft
    • Menjong Hotel
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    • 

      Elevation Profile

15. Day 15Samdrup Jongkhar - Guwahati (India) - Departure

    It’s time to bid farewell to Bhutan! This morning, you’ll cross into the Indian state of Assam. Be sure your Indian visa is ready—e-visas are not accepted at this border, so you’ll need to secure a physical visa in advance through an Indian consulate or embassy. If you need guidance with the process, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re happy to help.
    
    Once immigration formalities are complete, you’ll transfer by vehicle to Guwahati, Assam’s bustling capital along the banks of the Brahmaputra River. The drive typically takes 3–4 hours, depending on traffic and border processing time. From there, we’ll drop you off either at the airport or your post-tour hotel in the city. If flying out, be sure to book your flight for the afternoon to give plenty of time for the journey.

    • Breakfast