Bhutan’s rugged, mountainous scenery is ideal for both on-road and off-road biking, and the sport is growing in popularity among tourists and locals. Bhutan has a wide range of bike routes, from easy rides on paved roads to tough off-road dirt paths that wind through rugged terrain. 

The activity provides a level of closeness to the environment that is rarely found in this modern era. Biking is becoming a distinctive and original way of experiencing and connecting with the nation, people, and the environment, with better roads replacing the old and increasing off-road roads. 

This post will check out 10 thrilling on and off-road Bhutan bike tour that you can try during your visit to Bhutan.

Motor Biking Trails

1. Bumthang Valley Ride

Bumthang, which is made up of four valleys, is also the country’s spiritual core, including some of the country’s oldest temples, monasteries, and landmarks, as well as tranquil routes ideal for motorcycling. The ‘Burning Lake’ is a sacred pilgrimage place where the sinless among us are claimed to be able to discern an astonishing sight.

2. Gangtey Valley Ride

Passing through the Gangtey Valley, also known as Phobjikha, you’ll face some difficult climbs. It’s a glacial valley that becomes entirely buried in snow during the winter months when most of its occupants migrate to Wangdue, which is much milder. The entire area is a vital wildlife refuge, with muntjacs, wild boar, sambar, Himalayan black bears, and leopards among its residents.

3. Haa Valley Ride

Pedaling through the breathtaking Haa Valley Bhutan is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You’ll pass through vibrant green rice and potato fields, traditional Bhutanese-style farmhouses, and calm villages and towns, practically all of which have their own strikingly situated dzong (fortress) (fortified religious building). In addition, the Himalayas’ spectacular mountain backdrop is always present.

4. Paro Ride

Paro is simple to navigate by bike, with the National Museum, the country’s only airport, and a cluster of independent stores and restaurants. If you have the time, a ride out through the Paro Valley to the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong is a must. Rinpung Dzong, a great stronghold with high buttressed walls that loom over the town and are visible throughout the valley, is the city’s main attraction.

5. Thimphu Ride

Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, is located in a valley in the country’s western core. The city is notable for its Buddhist sites in addition to being the administrative capital. The huge Tashichho Dzong, with its gold-leaf roofs, is a fortified monastery and government palace. 

The Memorial Chorten is a revered Buddhist shrine dedicated to Bhutan’s third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, and is a whitewashed tower with a gold spire. It is the finest spot to bike because the roads are paved, and there is easy access to all of the sights and sites to explore.

Mountain Biking Trails

1.Thimphu Debsi Trail

The easy trail on the western slope of Thimphu Valley leads through pine woodland and open grassland. It is one of the single-track bike routes in Bhutan for those who love adventure, going through the quiet forest with fresh air.

Entry point: From the first sight of the outdoor gym on the way to Kuenselphodrang Park and the Buddha Dordenma statue.

2. KC Trail Buddha Point to Changangkha Lhakhang (Monastery)

Kuenselphodrang Park to Changangkha Lhakhang is a one-way trail. On the west side of Thimphu valley, meandering through the pine and rhododendron forests with the fresh scent of fresh soil and forest.

3. Tshalu Maphey (Nunnery extension)

The Debsi Multi-use Trail connects to this trail. Start your journey from the bottom of the route at the Debsi bridge across the WangChhu (Wang river) and follow the paved road upriver. At Tshalu Maphey, turn right at the rough road below the Nunnery.

4. Thimphu – Punakha Trail

Starting in Thimphu, cycle up to Dochula for about 18 kilometers. If the day is clear with no clouds, you will come across places to see in Bhutan from the peak of Dochula (3100m), as well as a sacred site. 

From there, we cycle down, but instead of taking the road, we follow a downhill track known as the Mad Man Trail by locals. It’s a really tricky downhill that can be a touch scary at times, but it’s a must-try for mountain bikers. Because of the downhill riding portion, this track is challenging. 

The rest of the journey follows the main highway paved road to Punakha.

5. Punakha Trail

We drive up to 2150 m in Punakha and then downhill on tricky terrain. Then we traverse the rice fields, seeking permission from local farmers. We next proceed to the suspension bridge. On the other side, we ascend to a small trail along the river’s edge that leads to the other bridge towards the end.

Conclusion

The majority of rides take place on well-paved roads, while others take place on dirt roads and trails. It is perfect for people who enjoy a peaceful ride around the city with their friends or want an adventure on a mountain bike. The experience is still quite intimate because the traffic is fairly light within the city. 

It’s just you, your bike, and the natural beauty of bike routes in Bhutan mostly meanders through tiny towns and villages and rural areas. 

One of the best sensations a man can have in his lifetime is speeding up your bike on the way to the top of the hill and toying with wind and speed while taking in the breathtaking views. What better way to get your blood pumping than mountain biking in Bhutan? With its vibrant landscapes. Join us and experience moments to remember life by!

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