10 Day Tour of the Dragon

Arrive at Paro International Airport and meet your guide. Begin your journey by visiting Rinpung Dzong, an iconic fortress overlooking the valley, and Ta Dzong, which houses the National Museum with exquisite artifacts.

Conclude the day exploring the ruins of Drukgyal Dzong before savoring authentic Bhutanese cuisine amidst Paro Valley’s serene mountain setting.

Take a short domestic flight to the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, Bumthang Valley. Explore Tamshing Goemba with its ancient murals, then visit Kurjey Lhakhang, believed to preserve the body imprint of Guru Rinpoche.

Conclude at Jambay Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, before heading to Jakar Dzong, offering sweeping views of the Chamkhar Valley.

Embark on one of the world’s toughest mountain bike races: 268 km from Bumthang to Thimphu. Cycle over high Himalayan passes such as Kiki La, Yotongla, and Pelela, experiencing dramatic landscapes and cheering villagers.

Finish triumphantly at Thimphu’s clock tower square, where the vibrant capital welcomes participants after this exhilarating endurance challenge.

After the race, enjoy a relaxed cultural immersion in Bhutan’s capital. Visit the massive Buddha Dordenma statue at Kuenselphodrang, then the National Memorial Chorten where locals gather for prayer.

Explore Tashichho Dzong, Bhutan’s administrative and monastic seat, and the Institute of Zorig Chusum, where students practice Bhutan’s thirteen traditional arts. Conclude with leisure time in lively Thimphu town.

Travel from Thimphu over Dochula Pass, adorned with 108 memorial chortens and offering spectacular Himalayan views. Descend into lush valleys to visit Chhimi Lhakhang, the auspicious fertility temple.

Continue to Punakha Dzong, an architectural masterpiece at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Conclude with a scenic hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten.

Journey into the serene Phobjikha Valley, winter home of the endangered Black-necked Cranes. Visit Gangtey Monastery, overlooking sweeping glacial landscapes.

Enjoy a nature hike through pristine meadows and rhododendron forests, pausing to observe the valley’s rich biodiversity. Evening at leisure in Gangtey.

Depart Gangtey for Trongsa, Bhutan’s historic heart. Drive across Pelela Pass, stopping at Chendebji Chorten, a Nepalese-style stupa surrounded by prayer wheels.

Upon arrival, explore Trongsa Dzong, the largest fortress in Bhutan, once the seat of power for Bhutan’s monarchy. Enjoy panoramic views of valleys and ridges, connecting Bhutan’s east and west.

Venture further south to the lush forests of Tingtibi, a lesser-known destination for birdwatching and nature. Explore tropical forests near Yeshi Zam, where rare birds are often sighted.

This off-the-beaten-path region offers tranquility, allowing visitors to experience Bhutan’s untouched wilderness away from traditional tourist circuits.

Spend the day immersed in Bhutan’s natural heritage, observing unique bird species such as Rufous-necked Hornbill, Great Hornbill, and Blue-throated Bee-eater.

Guided walks through warm broad-leaved forests reveal Bhutan’s extraordinary biodiversity. Tingtibi provides an unforgettable day for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Return to Paro for your international departure. Reflect on an extraordinary journey that combined the adrenaline of the Dragon mountain bike race with serene cultural and natural experiences.

As your flight departs, the towering Himalayan peaks and fluttering prayer flags leave lasting impressions of adventure and spirituality.