Himalaya
bhutan by bike
trip highligh­­­ts
Immersion in Bhutanese culture at Takstang Monastery,
Punakha Dzong, Paro Dzong & National Museum
Bumthang & Trongsa
Cross the Dochu
Visit the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu.
Ancient dzongs (fort‑monasteries) and monasteries in Thimphu
Trip Duration13 days
Trip Code: BMK
GradeChallenging
ActivitiesCycling
Summary13 day trip, 8 day cycle and 12 nights hotel
welcome to
World Expeditions
Thank you for your interest in our Bhutan by Bike trip. At World
Expeditions we are passionate about our off the beaten track
experiences as they provide our travellers with the thrill of coming
face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness regions
of great natural beauty. We are committed to ensuring that our
unique itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for the
enjoyment of small groups or individuals ‑ philosophies that have
been at our core since 1975 when we began operating adventure
holidays. Our itineraries will give you the very best travel experience,
designed by people with incredible local knowledge who share our
vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible
tourism approach. Whether you like your adventures to include
trekking, touring, cycling, mountaineering, kayaking or cruising World
Expeditions can make it happen for you. We hope you will join us for
a life changing experience!!
1 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Silverback 10/30/2015 12:29:17 PM
why travel with World Expeditions?
When planning travel to a remote and challenging destination,
many factors need to be considered. World Expeditions have been
pioneering treks in the Himalaya since 1975. Our extra attention to
detail and seamless operations on the ground ensure that you will
have a memorable trekking experience. Our cycle tours in Bhutan are
accompanied by an experienced local leader who is highly trained in
remote first aid, as well as knowledgeable crew that share a passion for
the region in which they work, and a desire to share it with you. We take
every precaution to ensure smooth logistics. We use comfortable 3 star
accommodation in hand picked hotels in major centres, and clean and
comfortable accommodation in smaller villages. The tour is also fully
supported with back up vehicle.
Most importantly, our adventures have always sought to benefit
the local peoples we interact with, safeguard the ecosystems we
explore and contribute to the sustainability of travel in the regions we
experience.
bhutan by bike
Tibet
Explore the Land of the Thunder Dragon on a fully supported cycle tour
Bumthang
Thimphu
Wangduephodrang
Paro
Bhutan
Sikkim
trip dates
2016
23May- 04Jun
08Aug - 20Aug
12Sep - 24Sep
10Oct - 22Oct
trip cost
Joining Paro:$7190
All prices are per person
options & supplements
Single Supplement:
$880
As the trip price is based on twinshare, a single
supplement is payable if a single room is required. If
you would like to share a room with someone of the
same gender, please request and we will do all possible
to match you. However, if we are unsuccessful you will
be required to pay the single supplement. Please refer
to the price options above or ask our office for details.
For competitive airfares and stopover ideas
to join this adventure, contact our expert staff
today to receive a detailed quote.
Want a private trip?
Book this trip as a private
departure just for you and your group
on your chosen date. Contact us for
conditions, costs and availability.
Inclusions Valued at USD$:
Meals:USD$384
the trip
The mystical kingdom of Bhutan is arguably the most inaccessible and culturally rich of all
the Himalayan kingdoms. It is the perfect venue for cyle touring in the Himalaya, it’s compact
and has mostly sealed roads which cross passes in excess of 3000m, from Paro in the west
to Bumthang in central Bhutan. We take in all the highlights including a crossing of the Dochu
La, a visit to famous Punakha Dzong, Tongsa and the Gangtey Valley. There are plenty of
long mountain climbs and exhilarating descents on this tour, and so a good level of cycling
fitness is required. We also supply a support vehicle in case there are stages where a little rest
& relaxation are required! This is a unique and rewarding way to experience the Himalaya at
handle bar level.
at a glance
DAY 1JOIN PARO
DAY 2CYCLE AROUND PARO (34KM)
DAY 3PARO TO THIMPHU (55KM)
DAY 4THIMPHU TO WANGDUEPHODRANG (63KM)
DAY 5DAY RIDE PUNAKHA (34KM)
DAY 6WANGDI TO GANGTEY (66KM)
DAY 7GANGTEY (10KM)
DAY 8GANGTEY TO TRONGSA (80KM)
DAY 9TRONGSA TO BUMTHANG (67KM)
DAY 10IN BUMTHANG
DAY 11BUMTHANG TO WANGDI
DAY 12WANGDUEPHODRANG TO PARO
DAY 13TRIP CONCLUDES IN PARO
additional deposits required
In addition to the World Expeditions deposit, you will also be required to pay an additional
deposit of USD$800 (paid in your local currency at the current rate of exchange).
Accommodation fills very quickly so we require this additional deposit to secure rooms. This
deposit is non‑refundable and we recommend you take out travel insurance at
the time of booking.
what’s included
12 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 12 dinners
good quality mountain bike and helmet
airport transfers on Day 1 and Day 13
expert bilingual guide
group medical kit
good quality accommodation in Paro & Thimphu
private transportation
all park entrance fees and permits
sightseeing and site entry fees as listed
Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with many operators in the
adventure travel industry. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the
local economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of
cash handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices we have
chosen a policy not to ask for such payments.
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bhutan by bike
Explore the Land of the Thunder Dragon on a fully supported cycle tour
detailed itinerary
DAY 1Join Paro
The flight into Bhutan is an adventure in itself and a perfect introduction to the terrain of the country.
As the plane approaches the Paro it must make two turns while the mountain peaks tower above.
The airport is one of the few flat patches of land around and the obvious choice for the countries
only airport at present. There are only two flights a day into Bhutan so everyone will arrive before
midday. You will be met at the airport by the local team and transferred to the hotel. At lunch we will
do a tour briefing to discuss the 2 weeks ahead.
For those who have the energy and are not jet lagged from their travels to Bhutan we take a little
time in the afternoon to see some of the sights of Paro. You will get to visit your first dzong. A dzong
is a Bhutanese fortress which were constructed at strategic locations throughout the country. They
contain both temple and administrative offices of the district government. Almost every town that
we stay in on the trip has a dzong and the local governments still work with their grand walls.
Dzong are build with high sloping walls, inside you’ll find detailed woodwork and courtyards. The
main dzong in Paro was constructed in the 15th century and still houses the administrative offices
of Paro. What was once the watchtower for the dzong is now the national museum and this will be
our next stop. The museum holds a great collection of artefacts from Bhutanese history and will be
the place where you can start to wrap your mind around the complexity of the Bhutanese Buddhist
belief which is full of gods, demons, saints, historical figures and kings.*In September 2011 a large
earthquake in the region caused damage to the Paro Museum, and forcing it to close for repairs. If
the museum is sill closed at the time of your tour alternate arrangements will be made.
meals: L,D
DAY 2Cycle around Paro (34km)
It’s time to hit the bikes for our first ride in Bhutan. Paro sits at a height of 2200m so we take it easy
today and do an short ride to get used to the altitude, warm up the legs, get used to the bikes and
see a little more of Paro Valley. Towering over the northern end of Paro Valley is Jomohari (7314m),
Bhutan’s second highest mountain. Beyond the mountain range is Tibet. The glacier on Jomohari
feeds the river flowing through the Paro Valley. We will ride 18km from our hotel up the valley to
the end of the sealed road where Drukyel Dzong sits. This dzong was built in the 15th century but
destroyed by fire in 1951. We will explore the ruins and if we are in luck and the weather is clear
you will have a wonderful view of Jomohari. As we descend back down the valley we will stop at
two local homes. At the first stop we will enjoy a display of traditional Bhutanese dance including
the dramatic mask dances that take place during the many festivals that take place throughout the
country. Normally our local partners don’t include cultural shows, however this one is special, as
much for the setting as the displays of song and dance. At the second stop we will drop in on a local
farming family to take a peek inside their home and have a cup of tea. It is intriguing to be allowed
the opportunity to visit a house and see what they look like from the inside.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 3Paro to Thimphu (55km)
It is time to leave Paro and begin the ride across Bhutan. This first point to point ride is the easiest,
our Bhutanese friends describe this day as flat as you will only be riding between 2100m and
2350m throughout the ride, although the road does undulate and there are actually no flat roads!
Leaving Paro we follow the valley downstream until the point where the Paro and Thimphu Rivers
meet. A set of 3 stupas marks this point. From here we follow the Thimphu River upstream and into
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bhutan by bike
Explore the Land of the Thunder Dragon on a fully supported cycle tour
fast facts
Countries Visited:
Bhutan
Visas:
Yes*
Vaccinations:
Please consult a travel vaccination
specialist for up to date information
Private Groups:
Private group options are
available for this trip*
Singles:
A single supplement is available for this trip*
Leader:
Expert local leader
Brochure Reference:
Himalaya and Indian Subcontinent
responsible travel
The environments we travel through are
fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to
minimise the impact of our presence. World
Expeditions were the proud recipients of
the inaugural Australian National Travel
Industry’s Environmental Achievement award
for our Responsible Travel Guidebook. This
detailed guide to responsible and sustainable
travel is provided to all World Expeditions
clients before they travel. Please ask your
consultant if you have not received your copy
of our award winning book. Alternatively,
you may like to download a copy from our
website www.worldexpeditions.com
Bhutan’s capital, um, city. The valleys here are narrow and there are few settlements along the way.
As we get closer to Thimphu the valley opens out and the last few kilometres are through the new
development areas.
Thimphu, the largest settlement in Bhutan, is home to only 80,000 people and sits at approximately
2350m above sea level. The city has the feel of a small town – there are no bright signs, all
architecture (including the petrol station) must follow the traditional style and the only set of traffic
lights were removed years ago.
As this is a short day of riding we should get in nice and early and have time to visit the dzong and
if energetic maybe cycle uphill to the site of what is being claimed as the world’s largest Buddha
image. It is 51m high which to us isn’t high enough for the claim but it is probably the highest in a
certain pose or something like that – impressive all the same and you get a great view down onto
Thimphu as you ride up the 5km climb.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 4Thimphu to Wangduephodrang (63km)
The first challenging climb of the tour starts this morning, a 16.4km climb up to Dochula Pass at
3110m. Before the real climbing begins though you have 5km of ‘Bhutanese flat’ to warm up the
legs. Climbing in Bhutan is all about getting into a rhythm and working your way slowly up the
mountains, taking in the scenery and enjoying the view. The climb averages 4.8% gradient so it is
not too steep. We will stop as often as needed to give adequate rest, plus the support vehicle will
be on hand at all times should you feel the need to get a loft to the top. The valley that you climb
is steep sided and covered in pine forest. At Dochula Pass we’ll take a good break and explore the
memorial 108 chortens as well as celebrating the first pass of the ride by putting up prayer flags. If
we are lucky we may get a view onto the highest peak in Bhutan (Gankar Pumsum – 7497m) and
the whole of the Eastern Himalaya.
The Pass comes at the 21.4km mark of the day and you’ll be happy to know that you’ll barely have
to pedal again for the remainder of day as the next 42.6km are downhill! The roads here are narrow
and winding so you’ll need to hang on and maintain good control. The descent averages 4.5% over
the whole distance to our hotel in Wangduephodrang at an elevation of 1300m.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 5Day ride Punakha (34km)
Up the valley from Wangdu sits the small town of Punakha where we will ride to on this leisurely
day ride. Today is considered flat by Bhutanese standards as there are no longer climbs or descents.
After only 6km is the first stop today where we take a short walk to Chime Lakhang, a 13th century
temple that was blessed by ‘the divine madman’ and is considered a fertility temple where childless
parents come to pray for children. After passing through ‘new’ Punakha town we reach the Punakha
Dzong. Punakha’s small size defies it long history and importance. For over 300 years until 1951 the
dzong in Punakha was used as the government’s winter base due to it’s lower altitude and warmer
weather. The dzong sits in a picturesque site at the confluence of the Pho and Mo Rivers and is
another grand structure from the
15th century. We will take time to explore the dzong and enjoy a picnic in the area. Retracing our
route back downstream for 5km we cross the river and continue the ride passing through new
Wangduephograng before climbing up to old Wangduephodrang. The town planners have decided
that the old town is too chaotic, the roads too narrow and the general plan too unwieldy so they are
moving everyone to the new town which is 2km upstream on a nice open, flat piece of land. This is
a good chance to see the town before it is moved. We will pass through here again tomorrow but
tomorrow’s ride is a long one so it is better to see today on this more leisurely ride.
*On the 24th June 2012, the beautiful Wangduephodrang Dzong was completely destroyed by fire.
It was one of the oldest and most substantial dzongs in Bhutan built in 1638. Renovations were
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bhutan by bike
Explore the Land of the Thunder Dragon on a fully supported cycle tour
trip grading
Challenging
8 days cycling 409km ‑ Challenging ‑ this is
possibly one of our most difficult cycle tours
but it is still achievable by anyone with good
fitness and determination. While there is a lot
of climbing involved in the ride most the the
time the gradient is between 4% and 5% so
making it up to the passes is mostly about
finding a nice slow rhythm and riding steadily
uphill. That said we have a support vehicle
on hand at all times so if you have difficulty
with any sections simply take some time out
in the bus. We encourage riders of all level to
participate in this tour. There will be stronger
riders who can make it the whole way and
others who will need some help. What we
have learned from non‑cyclists who have
joined our cycling tours is that even when not
cycling, the slow pace that our tours move
at make for a wonderful slow paced holiday.
adventure travel
underway when the fire started and so most of the historic relics had been put into storage and
were saved from the devastation of the fire. Re-building is already underway to restore the dzong to
its former glory.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 6Wangdi to Gangtey (66km)
Without a doubt today presents the greatest cycling challenge on any of our local partner’s bike rides
in Bhutan – a 55km climb that sees you ascend just over 2000m up into the Black Mountains. So
prepare yourself mentally and take on the challenge!From the hotel the climbing pretty much begins
immediately, at first through habitated areas and then through dense forest. The first 16km are not
steep climbing and there are even some sections with small descents. This is in a narrow valley.
But after 16km it is up all the way to 55.2km at an average of 4.7%. gradient The first 5km or so of
this part are through farming area with lovely terraced fields above and below the road. Once out
of the farming area we ride through thick oak and rhododendron forest. The gradient does increase
near the end of the climb with the last 1.4km to the highest point at Lawala Pass (3300m) climbing
at 8.5%. Going down into Gantey for the final 11km sees the road deteriorate and become closer to
being described as unsealed. Gantey is one name of the area of the Phobjika Valley, a glacial valley
where the rare black-necked cranes from Tibet spend the winter. Dwarf bamboo, eaten by yaks, is
the prominent vegetation. Our hotel in Gantey does not have 24 hour electricity. Lights go out at 9pm
but after today’s ride you probably won’t mind.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 7Gangtey (10km)
We will take a day to enjoy Gantey as well as rest our legs after yesterday’s ride. There are two good
options available for those who want to be active – one is a walk and one a half day bike ride. We
will determine who wants to do what and work out a schedule.
By its very nature adventure travel involves
an element of the unexpected. In remote
and developing countries do not expect
standards you are used to at home. Remote
areas are sometimes unpredictable and
itineraries may be altered. To get the most
out of your adventure it is important that
you are flexible, positive and eager to
take on all the challenges that arise. If you
are uncertain about your suitability for
this trip we recommend that you speak
with your consultant or travel agent.
meals: B,L,D
important note
meals: B,L,D
These trip notes represent the most
current information for this itinerary, and
may supersede any information in the
current brochure, including but not limited
to the itinerary and price. The itinerary
should be seen as a guide only. This
itinerary may change at any time due to
inclement weather, forces of nature and
other circumstances beyond our control.
DAY 8Gangtey to Trongsa (80km)
The longest day of the tour shouldn’t prove to much of a challenge now that you’ve warmed up to
the roads of Bhutan. We start the day by climbing 11km back to Lawala Pass (3300m), descending
slightly, then climbing 3km more to the highest point of the day – Pelela Pass at 3390m. This point
is traditionally considered the border between western and central Bhutan. The next 18km brings
a fast winding descent but then things level out a little and while still descending the gradient is
much more gentle. At the 66km mark we enter the Mangde River valley where Trongsa sits at the
far end and the next 9km are again steeper downhill. All along this section the town can be seen in
the distance but seems to be unreachable. The valley is very narrow, the road is cut into the steep
sided walls and the river is far below making for a dramatic ride. After a stop at a viewpoint where
the town, dzong and our hotel can be seen just across the valley it is still a surprising 10km of riding
until the hotel with the last 5km being uphill. Trongsa town sits at an elevation of 2100m.
DAY 9Trongsa to Bumthang (67km)
The final day of riding brings more climbing, the highest Pass of the tour and a great sense of
satisfaction as you ride into Bumthang have ridden halfway across the country over the kind of
terrain that a Tour de France cyclist faces. Setting out of Trongsa the climbing starts immediately
as the road zigzags its way up into the mountains. It is hard work but the scenery is spectacular
which great views of the mountains all around. It is not until nearly 30km after setting out that you
will reach Yotongla Pass, which at 3400m is the highest point of the trip. Very much a reason to
celebrate.With our hotel in Bumthang sitting at 2600m there is some fun downhill riding ahead.
The first 11km are a fast descent but once into agricultural Chumay Valley the next 14km are a
gradual descent and there are even a couple of small uphills parts. The final Pass of the tour is the
easiest, only a 3.8km climb and then there’s a 5.4km down before the flat few last kilometres ride
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bhutan by bike
Explore the Land of the Thunder Dragon on a fully supported cycle tour
into Bumthang. Time to celebrate with a locally produced Red Panda Beer, Bhutanese whiskey, or for
the non-drinkers locally made organic apple juice. A huge achievement for any cyclist, our Paro to
Bunthang ride will make for great memories and even better dinner table stories about cycling in the
mystical land of Bhutan over giant Himalayan mountain passes!
meals: B,L,D
DAY 10In Bumthang
Bumthang epitomises the clean living ideals of Bhutan. With everything from cheese to weiss beer
produced organically in the valley it can feel something like a Garden of Edan. To explore the sites
of the valley we will take an easy walk to explore Bhutan’s oldest temple, the local farmland and the
family temple of a local friend. For those with the energy we will also hold our own Bhutanese dart
competition where you can try your hand at hitting a tiny target from 30m. Hitting the target is worth it
for the song and dance that your local team mates perform in your honour!
meals: B,L,D
DAY 11Bumthang to Wangdi
There is only one road crossing Bhutan from west to east - this is the road that you have spend your
time conquering. In order to return to Paro we load up the support bus and start the long drive back
over all those Passes you climbed. The drive to Wanduephobrang will take much of the day.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 12Wangduephodrang to Paro
Heading back to Paro we should arrive before midday which gives time for those who still have some
energy for an afternoon walk up to one of Bhutan’s most venerated places, the Tiger’s Nest Monastery,
which is precariously perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro Valley floor. The walk will take
all afternoon but is worth the effort to view the amazing architecture of this temple and the cliffs that it
sits upon. In the evening we will celebrate our last night together after an epic ride.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 13Trip concludes in Paro
Depart Paro and onward arrangements.
meals: B
This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control.
am i suitable for this trip?
A Challenging trip is more difficult than any other program we offer. Each of these expeditions
has an ambitious objective or goal that necessitates cooperation, contribution and a positive
spirit from every member for it to be successful and ultimately rewarding and enjoyable for all.
Being personally very fit and healthy will allow you to cope with the rigours of the trip through
all conditions right through to the finish, and being mentally ready to embrace the variety of
experiences involved is equally important. We strongly encourage intending participants to
talk and meet with us directly as early as possible to discuss your ideas and ensure you have
chosen the right trip for your level of experience and fitness.
physical fitness
For a challenging program physical fitness should be an ongoing thing, which should start from
a base at around 4 to 6 months prior to departure and increase to build maximum endurance,
stamina, flexibility and familiarity with the anticipated routine as much as possible by your
trip commencement. Three to five hard sessions of 40 to 60 minutes of physical exercise per
week such as running, hill walking, swimming, cycling or gym work will build excellent aerobic
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bhutan by bike
Explore the Land of the Thunder Dragon on a fully supported cycle tour
capacity and overall endurance and stamina which are so important in trekking and climbing
at altitude. Overnight or multi day bushwalks ( on rough, loose and rocky terrain) should be
incorporated in your training regime also, this develops skill and confidence on difficult terrain
you will find on expedition. Rest and recovery, whilst at the same time steadily increasing your
routine and incorporating variety, are just as important parts of the process if you intend to
maintain and enjoy the regime for any duration. (We hope that it will become a ‘lifetime’ thing.)
With a solid training regime comes a more relaxed disposition, more energy and usually better
walking and breathing technique, which ultimately leads to you having a great trip rather than
some kind of survival experience. Likewise overnight camping bushwalks encourage you to
become self‑actualised and self‑reliant, making the daily routine on trek, getting ready on time,
keeping clean, helping out and so on, much easier and less stressful. Plan early with us and
prepare yourself physically on a continuing basis right the way through, rather than putting it off
for periods.
country information
Bhutan is a small, independent Buddhist kingdom situated on the eastern side of the Himalaya
about 300km long by 150kms wide. It is bordered with India, (Sikkim, Assam, West Bengal,
Arunachal Pradesh), China (Tibet) and Bangladesh. Virtually the entire country is mountainous,
ranging in elevation from 100m in the south to the 7544m Kulha Gangri peak on the northern
border. It receives more rainfall than any other Himalayan region, and on average half to two
metres of precipitation falls annually in the foothills and mountains. This ensures a lush and
diverse flora from small orchids to enormous conifers and rhododendrons, and the country’s
small population (approx 600,000), their religious beliefs as practising Buddhists, and a
protective government has allowed the wilderness to be well preserved. There are hundreds of
unique species of plants and animals to be found here. Most of the people of Bhutan originate
from the north (Tibet) and practise a Buddhism similar to that region yet it has it’s own unique
beliefs and practises. It is officially called Drukpa Kagyu, and includes practising their faith and
traditions of art, dance, drama and various crafts including weaving, carpentry, metalwork and
painting. It is obvious that the culture and history is rich in Bhutan, and the foresight of the late
King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck who is succeeded by his son, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck to
develop and maintain a program that is for the betterment of the people and the land rather than
a quick financial return, is an encouraging sign to a sound future.
climate
Bhutan, like Eastern Nepal, comes under the influence of the Indian monsoon which precludes
trekking throughout the summer months from the end of May till the middle of September. The
ideal time to trek in Bhutan is therefore either pre‑monsoon from mid March when the snow
begins to melt off the high passes until the end of May. Post‑monsoon October through to mid
November are ideal. Temperatures on the treks can vary considerably. On any one trek the
temperature may vary from 20C during the day to ‑10C when the occasional storm breaks over
the high passes. You will be pleased that you have been provided with good down jackets,
sleeping bags and two‑person tents that we send to Bhutan from our operational base in
Kathmandu.
a typical day
You will be woken with a cup of tea brought to your tent around 6:30am, followed by a small
bowl of warm water for washing. Before breakfast you pack your gear into your kit bag which
is then taken by the pack‑animals or porters and will not be available to you until you reach
camp that afternoon. After a wholesome breakfast we are usually on the trail between 7.30 –
8am, depending upon the duration and nature of the day’s walk. We will walk for around 3‑4
hours and then generally break for lunch for about 1 hour. Some of our staff will walk ahead
and select a suitable place to stop. The afternoon walk is generally a little shorter and camp is
usually reached by around 3.30 ‑ 4.30 pm. Once we have reached camp and the kitchen is set
7 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 2/12/2016 8:35:06 PM
bhutan by bike
Explore the Land of the Thunder Dragon on a fully supported cycle tour
up, afternoon tea will be prepared. From then until dinner there is time to rest or explore the
surrounding area. Dinner is usually served between 6‑7 pm. Remember to bring your headlamp
and your water bottles to the dining tent so they can be filled with boiling water. Trekking
evenings afford some of the best memories of your trek, whether it is talking, playing cards,
chatting with the crew or joining in some singing and dancing with the local people. Much of the
enjoyment of an expedition is in the journey itself.
dietary requirements
Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets
and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure
you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to
determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please
note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more
expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need
to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and
therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life‑threatening or severe allergies take
all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must
travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering
these medications.
what you carry
In your daypack, bum bag or handle bar bag you will need to carry extra warm clothing
(depending on the altitude, location and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, film and camera
gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip‑eze etc. a support vehicle will
accompany the group to transport luggage and pick up any tired cyclists! If renting bikes you
may prefer your own seat & pedals.
equipment required
We provide well maintained Trek mountain bikes in various sizes and will be responsible for any
maintenance required during the trip for these bikes. All bikes are fitted with one bottle cage.
Pannier racks are not supplied. For added comfort you may consider bringing your own seat
and pedals which we can easily fit to your rental bike. Please note, renters will be liable for any
damage caused to rental bike as a result of riding accidents.
You can bring your own bike for this trip if you wish. The best bike for conditions in Bhutan is a
good working mountain or hybrid bike with 21 gears or more and hybrid tyres to cope with the
varying conditions. You should have your bike serviced by a professional bike mechanic before
travelling to ensure that it is in good working order. While we do provide mechanical assistance
and carry some spare parts during the trip you will need to bring spare parts (including tubes) for
your bike as different bikes use different parts and we cannot guarantee that we will have a part
to suit your bike.
Helmets are compulsory for this tour. While we do have helmets available for use in Bhutan we
suggest that you bring your own so that you are assured of correct fit and comfort as you will
be out on the road for many hours each day. If you do not have your own helmet we can supply
one for you.
acute mountain sickness
When we ascend above 2500 meters our bodies have to acclimatise to the decreasing amount
of the oxygen available. To allow our bodies to adjust we have structured our treks so that you
ascend slowly, allowing acclimatisation to occur. However, during the acclimatisation process,
you may experience some of the following symptoms.
• Headache
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bhutan by bike
Explore the Land of the Thunder Dragon on a fully supported cycle tour
• Tiredness
• Disturbed sleep
• Loss of appetite/nausea
• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Palpitation
• Swelling of the hands and face
Individuals acclimatise at different rates. Your best strategy is to take your time and drink plenty
of water. These symptoms may not indicate the onset of A.M.S. and if you experience them it
does not necessarily mean that you should not continue. All our group leaders have extensive
first aid training and we urge you to communicate with the group leader at all times should you
believe you have any symptoms in order that we can effectively monitor your symptoms. The
only cure for Acute Mountain Sickness is to descend.
Please note that your group leader has ultimate responsibility and may ask you to descend if
symptoms persist.
special visa requirements
The visa process for Bhutan requires you to provide us with a scanned colour copy of your
passport as we require your full passport details (full name as it appears in your passport,
nationality, date of birth, passport number, date of issue and expiry date, and occupation) at
least 30 days before your arrival in Bhutan. Following the processing of your visa clearance we
will provide you with a clearance number to enable you to board the plane from your respective
airport; you will then receive a stamped visa upon arrival at Paro airport. You must carry the visa
approval letter with you and you will be required to show this when checking in for your DRUK
flight into Paro.
NOTE:‑ Please be aware that it is very usual that we do not receive visa clearance numbers from
the Bhutanese government until the week of travel, sometimes 2 or 3 days before departure
date. If you have already left on your travels prior to receiving the visa clearance number, then
the visa number will be emailed to you shortly before departure date. Please ensure that we
have your correct and up‑to‑date email and contact details.
vehicles & safety
During the course of your trip, we will use a variety of vehicles, all which are fit for purpose
and the conditions encountered. It should be noted that laws governing transportation safety
may differ from those in your home country and on occasion some vehicles may not have seat
belts fitted. While game viewing within a national park could be one example. Whilst we do
not include animal rides on most of our trips, there are occasions where it may be possible to
undertake them optionally and to do so is at your own risk. Note that helmets and professional
riding equipment are not available in all circumstances.
what’s not included
International flights & taxes
Bottled water
Aerated and alcoholic drinks
Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc.
Tips
Airport & departure taxes
Travel insurance
Visa
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bhutan by bike
Explore the Land of the Thunder Dragon on a fully supported cycle tour
info nights
World Expeditions invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel information nights. These
special evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced
and passionate adventure travellers and mountaineers. Ask our staff for a info night schedule or
register on our website ‑ www.worldexpeditions.com. Shows can fill early so it is important to
register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two!
private groups
The adventures featured in our brochures, and on our website, are just a starting point for
many of our private group travellers. Working closely with our Groups Department we can
organise custom designed itineraries for groups of friends, clubs, charity’s, schools or even
work colleagues. Our team will assist you with all aspects of your private group adventure from
itinerary design to group flights. Contact our team today.
subscribe to our e-newsletter
To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and
adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e‑newsletter! You can do this on line through our
website, www.worldexpeditions.com or contact our office.
social networking
Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/WorldExpeditions
trip availability
If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to call us now to check availability. There
are many reasons why you may not be able to join your desired departure and limited space
on our small group departures is just one of them. Many of our adventures require us to secure
services on your behalf; such as trekking permits, train travel and visa invitation letters. The
demand is increasing each year making it difficult to join a trip last minute. To ensure we can
assist you onto your adventure of a lifetime we ask that you check your trip availability with our
team at your earliest convenience.
how to book
To book a World Expeditions trip, you will need to complete a booking form and pay a non
refundable deposit which you can do by using our online booking function for most trips, or
if you prefer, download a booking form from the website and return to us by fax, or mail your
booking form and deposit to your nearest World Expeditions office or travel agent. We can also
help you with any additional arrangements that you require, such as competitive airfares to get
you to your destination, stopovers, pre or post trip accommodation or any additional tours that
you wish to take in conjunction with the main World Expeditions trip.
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