Bhutan By Motorcycle (Oct. 2023)
Immerse yourself in the unique landscape and culture of a rarely visited destination unlike any you’ve experienced. Less well-known, and far less visited than neighboring Nepal, Bhutan is a land of pristine Himalayan peaks, welcoming people, a carbon-positive footprint, and a unique sect of Buddhism. See it all from the saddle of the nimble, easy to ride Royal Enfield motorcycle on this one-of-a-kind, fully supported adventure ride
On a clear day flying in on Druk Air, the National Airline of Bhutan, you will be treated to a spectacular view of the great Himalayan peaks and your first glimpse of Bhutan. As you descend into Paro Valley at 7,400 feet, you arrive in a world apart. Crystal clear Himalayan air, the scent of pines, beautifully crafted traditional buildings, and the greetings of the Bhutanese people in their distinctive centuries-old woven robes signal that your journey, rare in time, place and spirit, has begun.
Your unforgettable ride takes you through the heart of Bhutan, exploring monasteries and dzongs, seeing traditional Bhutanese crafts, hiking to the Tiger’s Nest, spotting the black-necked crane and other wildlife, and meeting welcoming local residents as you pass through small towns and larger (but not all that large) cities. Your travels will take you through fertile terraced fields of rice and other crops, over mountain passes as high as 12,000 feet, past traditional architecture of the shops and homes in small towns, and along drop-offs to rushing mountain rivers, ascending and descending in switchbacks through the blooming rhododendrons and other foliage of pristine Himalayan forests.
To visit this magical kingdom, travelers must obtain a visa from the Bhutanese government, which welcomes discerning visitors to tread lightly, protecting the environment and respecting their unique culture. When you travel with Next Run on this trip, we arrange your travel documents and an itinerary showcasing some of Bhutan’s most iconic sights and stunning views, led by experienced riders and knowledgeable local guides.
Overview
- 9 Day all-inclusive motorcycle trip to Bhutan
- Cultural exploration, hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest, wildlife watching
- Ride Royal Enfields through breathtaking Himalayan vistas of mountain peaks, fertile valleys, and small towns; among blooming rhododendrons and fluttering prayer flags.
Difficulty Rating: Moderate
Riding: The roads of Bhutan are relatively narrow - almost entirely 2 lanes, with not a single stoplight in the entire country. Speeds are relatively low, traffic is light, and switchbacks are frequent. Altitudes vary from 4,500 to over 12,000 feet. Views are unforgettable.
On foot: The longest hike - to the iconic Tiger’s Nest temple - is a well-traveled trail, with a total distance of less than 6 miles round trip, and an elevation gain of roughly 1,700 feet to a maximum altitude of just over 10,000 feet.
Accommodations & Logistics
3 star hotels. Royal Enfield Himalayas. Meals provided. Support vehicle for luggage. Riders bring your own helmet and riding gear.
What’s included
This trip is an all-inclusive package that includes all in-country transportation, guides, support vehicle and driver, guide gratuities, hotels, meals, visas, monument and museum entries, and festival fees. The flight from Bangkok to Paro, Bhutan is listed separately. The price does not include alcohol, mandatory trip and evacuation insurance, driver or liability insurance, or any souvenir purchases.
