It’s our final day on the road. We woke in Trashiyangtse to the sound of rain thrumming against the windows, the sky heavy with grey, the air cold enough to numb fingertips. Tarique’s back on the bike for a final ride, but two fresh cases of ‘internal unrest’ mean the backup vehicle has hit maximum…
Category: Bhutan
Yadi Bends and Beyond. Trashiyangtse Bhutan
It’s Day 8 of our ride and we leave Wangchuk Hotel in Mongar at around 8:30 a.m., engines humming in the icy hush of morning. The sky was a pale pewter and the air had that bite only high altitudes can deliver—sharp, invigorating, and strangely comforting. Tarique, still not fit to ride but visibly better,…
Where the Mountains Weave. Mongar Bhutan
We left Jakar Village Lodge reluctantly. That warm timbered homestay had made us feel like part of the family—endless cups of brew, gentle laughter, and food that’s to die for. But it was time to move on. The road was calling again, and so was the ride. We’d already clocked nearly 400 kilometres since leaving Paro—crossing mountain…
Through Passes and Time. Bumthang Bhutan
Day 4 of our ride began with an unexpected delight. Over breakfast, just as everyone was preparing for the long ride ahead, I brought out a bottle of Seeni Sambol—that bold, fiery essence of Sri Lanka. The surprise lit up their faces, and soon it was being heaped generously onto eggs and toast. In that…
From River Valley to Crane Country. Gangtey Bhutan
It’s Day 03 of our ride, and we’ve still not hit the halfway mark. The journey through Bhutan is slower than expected—but not in a bad way. Everyday brings new experiences and memories to keep for a long time. We rolled out of Punakha early this morning, reluctantly packing up after an indulgent night at our resort….
Where Rivers Meet and Legends Rise. Punakha Bhutan
The day began strong. We rode out of Thimphu under a pale blue sky — the kind that makes the world feel fresh and full of promise. The early morning chill clung to our jackets, my new jacket, as we cruised out of the city. Traffic was minimal — if you can call a few silent, well-behaved…
Riders in the Mist. Thimphu Bhutan
Today’s the day we’ve all been looking forwards to—the start of our second cross-country motorbike adventure! After conquering Ladakh last year, this time we’re off to explore beautiful Bhutan—a destination that’s been sitting high on my bucket list for ages. Eight riders have selected their Royal Enfield Himalayan 411cc’s—solid machines built for the mountains, geared…
The Last Shangri-La and Its Sacred Climb. Paro Bhutan
There are airport landings—and then there’s Paro. Nestled in a narrow valley flanked by towering Himalayan ridges, Paro International Airport is one of the most dangerous and visually spectacular runways in the world. Only eight specially trained pilots are certified to land here, navigating between 5,500-meter peaks using only visual guidance. No autopilot. No instrument landing system. Just raw skill…
