Motorcycle trip through Bhutan

We meet early in the morning at the airport in Delhi and fly together from Delhi to Bagdogra. Here we will be picked up by Tenzin, our guide. Continuing by car for about 3 hours through the plains of West Bengal to the border town of Bhutan, Jaigaon (160 km in the plain) which is still on the Indian side. Overnight on the Indian side of the border.

After the immigration formalities, we continue our journey towards Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. The drive begins with an ascent of almost 200 m above sea level to 2300 m above sea level in Thimphu through subtropical forests and alpine forests.

A light and beautiful day as it is only 70 km long and leads us over a beautiful pass (Dochola Pass, 3400 m) with a magnificent view of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. After arriving in Punakha, the old capital of Bhutan, we visit the most beautiful fortress of Bhutan. In the afternoon, there is an opportunity for an excursion to the Phochu Valley.

After breakfast, we continue our journey to Gelephu. This day takes us close to the Indian border again, bringing us into a different climatic zone. The drive is a colorful mix of paved and somewhat rough roads, but overall, it is well navigable.

Today, we are led along a beautiful motorcycle route to Panbang, a remote community in South-Central Bhutan. It is located in the heart of subtropical biodiversity and borders the Royal National Manas Park. This detour was a big hit on our last trip because we were able to experience a lot of local color.

The day will be spent visiting one of Bhutan's oldest villages, the village of Joka. We will drive about 55 km to the village and stroll around a bit. Visiting local farmers always represents a highlight, as we get to learn so much about the way of life in this enchanting country.

In the morning, we leave Panbang and head towards Trongsa, which is near the central region of Bhutan. The highlight of the town is the Trongsa Dzong. This Dzong is a massive structure on many levels that hugs the contours of a hill on which it sits.

Today we head to beautiful Bumtang, also fondly called the Switzerland of Bhutan. Between Trongsa and Bumthang, there is another pass (Yotong La 3600 m). Bumthang is a stunning valley and just before the entrance to Bumthang, you can see local weavers.

Cozy on a good road, we slowly head back west. We drive over the Pele la Pass (3400 m) and spend the night in Phobji Kha in Gangtey. It is a picturesque valley which is also home to one of the rarest birds in the world: the Black-necked Crane.

Today we set off early towards Paro. Here we will spend the last two nights of our Bhutan trip.

A highlight at the end: the hike to Tiger's Nest, the legendary monastery of Guru Rimpoche, which is located on a steep cliff about 600 m higher than the valley. The ascent and return journey takes about 4 hours. It is worth taking the hike.

We leave the kingdom and return to the Indian border. The motorcycles will be left in Bhutan, and we will continue by car to Bagdogra and from there again together by plane to Delhi. Upon arrival, we say goodbye and make our way back home.