Bicycle Tour-Bhutan

Day 01: Arrival at Paro(2250mtrs) and Cycling towards Drukgyel Dzong( 15kms, 45mins cycling).

The way towards Drukgyel Dzong(built in 1649 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate the victory over Tibetan Invasion) is very scenic and has less traffic which makes it very suitable for cycling. As you move towards the dzong, you will also have a very good view of Taktsang(Tiger’s Nest) on the way. After the Dzong, visit the following places by riding the bicycle:

Kyichu Lhakhang: Built in the 7th century by a Buddhist King Songstsen Gampo of Tibet to overcome the giant ogress that laid across Tibet and the Himalayas preventing the spread of Buddhism. The king is believed to have built the temple at the left foot of the enormous ogress. Kyichu Lhakhang was among 12 temples in Bhutan out of 108 temples said to have been constructed over a single night.

Dungtse Lhakhang: The temple was built in the form of chorten(stupa) by Thang Thong Gyalpo in 15th century to subdue a serpentine force that was located at the foundation of the temple. It has three floors representing hell, earth and heaven. Evening explore Paro town by walk. Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 02: Taktsang(Tiger’s Nest) Hike and visit Sangchen Choekor Monastary(15kms, 45mins cycling).

Early morning ride bicycle towards the Tiger’s Nest base camp and go for the hike: It takes about 5-6 hours to complete the hike covering about 7km at a height of 850m from the base. It is a must-visit/the main highlight of Bhutan. Therefore, your tour to Bhutan is incomplete without the Tiger’s Nest Hike. Start early to finish early.

On the way back you can visit Sangchen Choekor Monastary(If time permits): It is a Buddhist college where monks study Buddhism for six years and do their graduation. From here you will have a very good view of Paro valley and the Paro International Airport. Cycling on the road could be thrilling and adventurous with the beautiful views. Later in the evening, you can visit a local farmhouse for local cuisine and a Hot Stone Bath(optional)to relax. Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 03: Paro to Thimphu(60kms, 3hrs cycling)

After the breakfast, proceed towards Thimphu(2300mtrs) riding bicycle visiting a few places on the way:

Tachog Monastery and Iron Bridge: Viewing from a hilltop, this Monastery was built in the 15th century by a great spiritual master Thang Thong Gyelpo. In addition, he also built an Iron Bridge which your guide will show you on the way to the Monastery. After the Monastery, continue till the mid-way where you will witness the confluence of two rivers, “Pa Chu” and “Wang Chu” accompanied by three different types of Stupas (Tibetan, Bhutanese, and Nepalese).

After the arrival, have lunch/snacks and explore the Capital City. Evening visit Tashichho Dzong(Fortress): Built in the 17th Century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal(First Governor of Bhutan), it is divided into two parts: Administrative block and Monastic block. It also houses the throne room of His Majesty the King of Bhutan. Moreover, the annual Festival “Tshechu” is also celebrated at this Fortress. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 04: Thimphu local sightseeing(by bicycle)

After the breakfast ride towards the following places:

Ride to Kuensel Phodrang: Ride towards Kuensel Phodrang for an hour and visit the place.

Bicycle ride to Changankha Lhakhang via cycling route: After visiting the Buddha Statue, ride for an hour  through blue pine forest to reach the monastery via cycling trail. As you ride through the forest, you will have a beautiful view of Thimphu valley. 

Bicycle ride from Taba to Lungtenphu:

If you are a pro cyclist then you must try this 7kms long cycling route, ‘Taba-Lungtenphu Cycling Trail.’ This cycling route will take about 2 hours to complete giving you the real vibe cycling. Through this trail you will also have a very beautiful view of Thimphu valley.

Other Options:
1. Drive to Sangaygang and to Wangditse Temple by cycling route. Visit Takin Preserve Centre. Finally go for Wangtse Hike if time permits. Distance: 7 kms, Approximate Time Taken: 2.5 hrs. 

2. Bicycle ride to Tango/Cheri base and back to Thimphu. Hike to Tango/Cheri Monastery if time permits Distance: 18 km, Approximate Time Taken: 3 hrs.

Day 05: Thimphu to Punakha Bicycle Ride(80kms and 5hrs ride)

After breakfast ride bicycle towards Punakha(1350mtrs) and visit the following places:

Dochula Pass: On the way to Punahka, stop at Dochu La Pass(3150m) to witness the 108 stupas built in 2003 by the Queen Mother. Additionally, you will also have a view of the Himalayan Mountain Ranges if the weather is clear.

Chimi Lhakhang(Temple of fertility): Upon reaching Punakha, take a short hike towards Chimi Lhakhang crossing a small village and paddy fields. Built in 15th century by Lam Drukpa Kuenley(Divine Mad Man), the temple is know as No Dog Temple. However, today it is also known as the temple of fertility where people come to get the fertility blessing if they are barren. People all around the globe visits the temple and receives the fertility blessing. Your guide will narrate the story of No Dog Temple and show you the evidences of fertility.

Punakha Dzong(Fortress): Lying between the two rivers, Pho Chu(male river) and Mochu(female river) is Punakha Dzong previously known as Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness). It was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal for war tactics. Today is serves as the winter residence of Monastic Body of Bhutan.

Suspension Bridge: It is one of the longest Suspension Bridges in Bhutan with the length of about 300mtrs. It connects the Dzong with the villages on the other side of Pho Chu. Take a short walk on the bridge, experience the cool breeze with the flattering flags and mingle with the locals. Overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 06: Punakha to Paro Bicycle Ride(140kms and 7hrs ride)

After the breakfast, ride bicycle towards Paro via Thimphu and visit the following places if time permits:

Ta Dzong(National Museum): Built in 1649 as a watch Tower by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal so that they could watch over Paro Valley or enemies coming. Later in 1968, it was established as a National Museum of Bhutan.

Paro Ringpung Dzong(Fortress of Heap of Jewel): Built in 1644 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal for administrative and monastic purposes for Paro Districts. In 1993 some scenes of a film named Little Buddha were also filmed in this Dzong. Later you can try wearing our national dress Gho(male)/Kira(female) and take photographs(optional). In the evening, explore Paro market by walk. Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 07: Bicycle Excursion to Chele La Pass(40kms and 4hrs ride).

After breakfast, ride towards Chele La Pass(3988mtrs) which is the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. From here you will have a very good view of Mt. Jomolhari(7314m) if the weather is clear. On the way visit Dzongdrakha Goemba which is considered as “Mini Taktsang.” 

Day 08:Departure

Taking the good memories of Bhutan, we will say “Lok jay gay”(will meet next time). Please visit Bhutan again and refer us to your friends and families at +97517236237 or mail us at travelmorebhutan@gmail.com.