Western Valleys
A shorter ride that packs in western Bhutan’s biggest climb. From Paro the road winds up to Chele La at nearly 4,000 m, down into the quiet Haa valley and back, then east through Thimphu and over Dochula to the warm valley of Punakha.
The route, stop by stop
Photo: Rinpung Dzong · B. Gagnon · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons Stop 01Paro
Approx. 2,200 mHome to Bhutan’s only international airport, so most rides start here. Rinpung Dzong guards the Paro Chhu, and Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) clings to the cliffs above the valley.
Photo: Chele La · Vinayaraj · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons Stop 02 · Mountain passChele La
Approx. 3,988 mThe highest motorable pass in western Bhutan, on the road between Paro and Haa. A long climb through forest to prayer flags at nearly 4,000 m, with views to Jomolhari on clear mornings.
Photo: Lhakhang Karpo · C. J. Fynn · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons Stop 03Haa
Approx. 2,670 mA quiet border valley that only opened to visitors in 2002. Little traffic, farmhouses and the White and Black Temples (Lhakhang Karpo and Nagpo).
- 04 · Back through Paro (2,200 m)
Photo: Tashichho Dzong · C. J. Fynn · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons Stop 05Thimphu
Approx. 2,330 mThe capital, and famously without traffic lights. Tashichho Dzong houses the throne room and government offices on the banks of the Wang Chhu.
Photo: Druk Wangyal Chortens · B. Gagnon · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons Stop 06 · Mountain passDochula
Approx. 3,100 mThe pass between Thimphu and Punakha, crowned by the 108 Druk Wangyal chortens. On clear days the eastern Himalaya lines the horizon.
Photo: Punakha Dzong · B. Gagnon · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons Stop 07Punakha
Approx. 1,250 mThe former capital, in a warm, low valley. Punakha Dzong sits where the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers meet, at the bottom of a long descent from Dochula.
Dates, duration and price
Every departure is quoted individually, based on your dates, group size, riding experience and how many days you want in the saddle. Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee is charged per night on top of the tour price.
Plan your ride →Before you ride
Do I need a motorcycle licence to ride in Bhutan?
Yes. You need a valid motorcycle licence from your home country, and an International Driving Permit is strongly recommended. Bring both on the ride.
Can I ride in Bhutan without a guide?
International visitors travel with a licensed Bhutanese guide, and travel beyond Thimphu and Paro needs route permits, which are arranged through your tour operator. Rules can change, so confirm current requirements when you book.
What is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)?
Bhutan charges international visitors a Sustainable Development Fee per person, per night. It is US$100 for most nationalities at the time of writing, with a separate rate for Indian nationals. It is set by the Government of Bhutan, not the tour operator, and is payable on top of the tour cost.
When is the best time for a motorcycle tour in Bhutan?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November) bring the driest roads and the clearest mountain views. The summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and landslides. Winter rides are possible in the valleys, but high passes can see snow and ice.