A Biking Tour of Bhutan is an exhilarating way to explore the beautiful landscapes, valleys, and villages of this Himalayan kingdom. The country’s diverse terrain, ranging from lush forests and terraced fields to high mountain passes and remote monasteries, makes it a perfect destination for cyclists who want an adventurous and scenic journey. Here’s a 7-day biking tour itinerary that takes you through the best of Bhutan’s cycling routes, offering a mix of cultural exploration and thrilling biking experiences.
Day 1: Arrival in Paro
- Arrival at Paro International Airport:
- You will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Paro.
- Sightseeing in Paro:
- After checking in, take a leisurely ride around Paro Valley, cycling along the Paro River with views of the surrounding mountains.
- Visit Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong) and Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
- Overnight: Stay in Paro.
Day 2: Paro to Thimphu (Biking Day 1)
- Distance: Approx. 55 km (4-5 hours of biking)
- Biking Route:
- Start your biking adventure from Paro to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. This scenic ride will take you along National Highway 2, which follows the Paro River.
- The route will gradually ascend as you pass through traditional villages, fields of terraced crops, and thick pine forests.
- On the way, stop for views of the stunning Tashichho Dzong and the surrounding hills.
- Overnight: Stay in Thimphu.
Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha (Biking Day 2)
- Distance: Approx. 75 km (5-6 hours of biking)
- Biking Route:
- This day’s ride will take you from Thimphu to Punakha. The first part of the ride takes you up to the Dochula Pass (3,100 meters), where you can stop for panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range. The pass is known for its 108 memorial chortens.
- From the pass, descend through forests of oak, pine, and rhododendrons as you approach Punakha.
- Overnight: Stay in Punakha.
Day 4: Punakha to Wangdue Phodrang (Biking Day 3)
- Distance: Approx. 20-25 km (2-3 hours of biking)
- Biking Route:
- Enjoy a short and easy bike ride from Punakha to Wangdue Phodrang. This part of the ride is relatively flat and scenic, passing through lush farmland and beautiful river valleys.
- Stop at Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, a fortress overlooking the confluence of two rivers, the Pho Chhu and the Mo Chhu.
- Overnight: Stay in Wangdue Phodrang.
Day 5: Wangdue Phodrang to Phobjikha Valley (Biking Day 4)
- Distance: Approx. 60 km (4-5 hours of biking)
- Biking Route:
- Today’s bike ride takes you to Phobjikha Valley, a beautiful glacial valley known for its pristine beauty and as the winter home of the Black-necked Crane.
- The route is a gradual ascent, passing through charming rural villages and lush forests. The ride takes you through some remote areas with spectacular mountain views and the opportunity to see wildlife along the way.
- Phobjikha Valley is also home to the famous Gangtey Monastery, which you can explore after your arrival.
- Overnight: Stay in Phobjikha Valley.
Day 6: Phobjikha Valley to Wangdue Phodrang (Biking Day 5 – Return Trip)
- Distance: Approx. 60 km (4-5 hours of biking)
- Biking Route:
- After spending some time in Phobjikha Valley, cycle back to Wangdue Phodrang via the same route, enjoying the downhill and the beautiful views of the valley.
- Overnight: Stay in Wangdue Phodrang.
Day 7: Wangdue Phodrang to Paro (Biking Day 6 – Return Trip)
- Distance: Approx. 85 km (5-6 hours of biking)
- Biking Route:
- The final day of your biking adventure will take you back to Paro. The route follows the same scenic roads, passing through valleys and hills as you make your way back to the starting point.
- Once you arrive in Paro, take some time to relax and reflect on your cycling journey through Bhutan’s majestic landscapes.
- Overnight: Stay in Paro.
Day 8: Departure
- Morning: Depending on your flight schedule, you can visit the famous Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). You can hike or take a short ride to the base of the trail to get a close view of this iconic monastery.
- Departure: Transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey.
Summary of Key Highlights:
- Paro to Thimphu: Scenic valley ride with views of terraced fields and Bhutanese villages.
- Thimphu to Punakha: A challenging yet rewarding ride through the Dochula Pass with panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Punakha to Wangdue Phodrang: Shorter, flat ride through beautiful farmland and river valleys.
- Wangdue Phodrang to Phobjikha Valley: Scenic ascent through forests and remote mountain landscapes.
- Black-necked Cranes: Spot these endangered birds in Phobjikha Valley.
- Gangtey Monastery: Visit this beautiful monastery in the heart of Phobjikha Valley.
- Tashichho Dzong: Explore Bhutan’s capital city and its majestic fortress.
Tour Level and Difficulty:
- This biking tour is suitable for intermediate to experienced cyclists, as it involves some uphill sections and long distances. The terrain varies from smooth tarmac roads to rougher paths, making it an exciting and rewarding experience.
Best Time for Biking in Bhutan:
- Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best times for biking tours in Bhutan, as the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are lush and green, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
This 7-day biking tour offers an unforgettable adventure through Bhutan’s diverse landscapes, perfect for those who enjoy cycling and want to experience the natural beauty and culture of this Himalayan kingdom.