Bhutan Hiking, Cycling & Rafting Adventure
14 days from £6900 pp
See the greatest sights of Bhutan in a more active way on our Bhutan hiking, cycling and rafting holiday. Try white water rafting in the beautiful Punakha Valley. Cycle your way through the incredible Himalayan countryside, stopping off at monasteries and temples. Hike and camp the iconic four-day Druk Trail, experiencing the untouched, serene Himalayas. And of course, hike up to the famous Tigers Nest Monastery. This is the way to experience Bhutan if you love active outdoor adventures in nature.
Trip Highlights
- Cycle through Himalayan Valleys with amazing views
- Raft down the famous Punakha River
- Take on the iconic Druk Path Trek, away from crowds and camping each night
- Hike to the mesmerizing Tigers Nest Monastery
Our Expert Tip
”The high altitude of some of the valleys makes cycling harder than usual. Even if you are a regular cyclist, be sure to do some extra training before you arrive”
Holly, Bhutan Expert
Detailed Bhutan Hiking, Cycling & Rafting adventure Itinerary
Day 1-2: Thimphu
Catch your international flight into Paro airport, meet your driver and guide and transfer to a comfortable and well located hotel in Thimphu. This afternoon with your guide, head out to explore Royal Takin Preserve, the Royal Textile and the National Memorial Chorten. Thimphu is a fascinating town and easy to explore independently on foot, so take the time to amble around your interesting first stop.
The next day, begin your Himalayan cycling adventure by being driven to the base of Tango to start your guided cycle ride back to Thimphu. Pass through incredible scenery, interesting towns and observe locals in their traditional Bhutanese dress.
Complete this epic ride and either rest and relax, or explore the Farmers’ Market, Jungshi Paper factory and Buddha Dordenma statue.
Day 3-5: Punakha
Meet your guide and journey around two hours to the Punakha Valley, stopping en route at the Dochu la Pass. Continue your cycling adventure as you grab your helmet and ride to the Madman Trail. Prop up your bikes to explore Chimi Lhakhang before continuing the cycle journey to your lovely boutique hotel in Punakha where you can relax.
The next day, enjoy an exhilarating hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten before lapping up a traditional lunch in a local restaurant. Visit the famous Punakha Dzong, which is particularly magnificent in the spring time when lilac-coloured jacaranda trees are in bloom. Walk over to the Punakha suspension bridge for some incredible views of the glistening river below. You will have the opportunity to go rafting on the famous Punakha River with a professional rafting team. Depending on river levels and weather take either the male or female river and enjoy this thrilling experience.
Take on a more challenging hike to Giligang Temple and be rewarded by incredible views, rice paddies, mountain passes and green forests. Visit the Lhakhang Nunnery, and participate in a blessing ceremony.
Day 6-7: Gangtey
Be driven to Gangtey Valley around three hours away, visiting the incredible Gangtey Goemba before lacing up your walking boots again for a hike to the Gangtey Nature Trail. En route, visit the Black Necked Crane Education Centre to witness these amazing creatures up close, learn more of their folklore and the ongoing efforts to protect them.
The next day, enjoy a beautifully scenic hike on the Longtey Trail (around four hours in total) and attend evening prayers at Shedra, a monastic school. A unique and enchanting experience where 300 monks chant their evening prayers.
Day 8: Thimphu
A longer drive day (around five hours) back to Thimphu as a base to prepare for the Druk Path Hike. In Thimphu head out with your guide on the Wangditse hike, a delightful short trek into nature for spectacular views of Thimphu Valley.
The trail winds through tranquil pine forests adorned with colourful prayer flags, finishing at the Wangditse Monastery.
Day 9: Druk Path Trek
Time for a real hiking adventure as you begin the famous Druk Path Trek. Driving to the start point above the Takin Preserve, the hike starts at around 2,430 meters. The trail splits and you journey towards Phajoding Monastery Complex, walking through rich junipers and dwarf rhododendrons.
After stopping for lunch, continue to Labana, over Pumo La (4,210 meters) for the highest pass of the day. Take in the awe-inspiring views and prayer flags as far as the eye can see.
Settle in at your campsite, staying in a comfortable tent for the next three nights. Your trekking support team will ensure the set up and meals run smoothly.
Day 10: Druk Path Trek
Continue the Druk Path Trek along peaks often used as sky burials. See incredible views of Mount Jhomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake. The trail drops to Simkorta Tsho Lake at around 4,100 meters.
Encounter villages as you go, seeing the real Bhutan away from the tourist path. After around seven hours of walking, get comfortable for the night in Jigmelang campsite.
Day 11: Druk Path Trek
This morning challenge yourself, climbing a steep rocky trail onto a ridge with incredible views. Head into thick rhododendron forests, crossing ridges, ascending peaks and tackling shorter steeper paths, before eventually reaching Tshokam campsite where you can rest your tired limbs.
Day 12-14: Paro
A gradual climb down (around four hours) through forests of blue pines, passing monasteries and yak pastures eventually brings you to the clearing which marks the end of your epic trek! Meet your support vehicle and transfer into Paro Valley for your final two nights. Explore Paro with your guide, home to several museums, temples and monasteries.
Take a day trip to Chele La, an incredible pass that offers stunning views of Mount Jhomolhari.
Of course, saving the best until last you will visit the famous Tigers Nest Monastery. Built on a sheer cliff face at the height of 2,950 meters, this four hour trek rewards you with some of your most memorable travel views. Tiger Nest Monastery is one of the most sacred Buddhist sights in the world. Explore Paro town independently or relax in your hotel. Bhutan is a world-leader in ethical and green travel. Read more about how to travel better, and greener here.
When to Go
Includes
- All accommodation
- Excursions
- Transport
- Private guides
Excludes
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa cost
- Tips
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Need More Inspiration?
Want to combine multi-countries, take less flights, or include a hike in Patagonia? Thinking of a longer sabbatical holiday, or staying in some luxury yurts? It’s all possible; all our holidays are tailor-made with a focus on responsible travel. Take a look at more ideas below, and contact our experts.
