Mountain Biking & Cycling

bike riders enjoying the scenery in Bhutan - Tour of the Dragon

Page updated – 19 January 2024

Introduction to Mountain Biking & Cycling in Bhutan

Mountain biking & cycling in Bhutan is steadily gaining popularity amongst both local Bhutanese and visitors alike. The country’s topography offers steep hill climbs, high passes and lower valley riding. These can be combined easily with rewarding cultural sightseeing.

Cycling is therefore a very unique way of experiencing and interacting with the Kingdom, its people and its beautiful environment. Most biking trips will use a mix of well paved roads through to dirt farm access roads and occasional trails.

The more adventurous have the option of some challenging climbs with one in particular that is more than seven hours.  You are more than equally rewarded with extraordinary views and a rare experience.

Riders should have an adequate level of fitness and stamina and be experienced in the required skills of cycling/mountain biking. 

Bhutan’s roads & trails accommodate most types of frame styles: from MTB, Hybrid, and Road, depending on your cycling style and experience. 

This is the “Road Less Travelled.”

Enjoy New Mountain Bike Trails in Thimphu

In 2020-21 the Tourism Council of Bhutan initiated the development of three mountain-biking trails in the hills above Thimphu city. Please refer to the three trail web links below. 

Mountain bike hire costs for 24:

Half day @ US$30 per bike
Full day @ US$40 per bike
Your guides bike hire @ US$40 per day
Mechanic/technician to accompany you @ US$30 per day (when required) 

Tour of the Dragon - Annual Bike Race - September

Held in early September, (02 SEP 24 – tentative date) the annual ‘Tour of the Dragon’ is categorized as an ultra-marathon mountain bike race on roads that can be extremely challenging.

The ‘Tour of the Dragon’ starts in Bumthang (central Bhutan) and travels 268 km over 4 mountain passes before finishing in the capital Thimphu. It’s one of the toughest one-day mountain bike races in the world.

Overseas riders are very welcome. Contact Bhutan & Beyond for further information.