Bhutan Biker's Adventure Rally: Paro to Punakha - 5 Days

Orrog has established a reputation for effectively conducting treks with experienced leaders and personnel attending to all your travel requirements.

Hard-tail or full-suspension mountain bikes are essential for this journey.  In certain sections of the trails, downhill shortcuts are available, for which we highly recommend full suspension bicycles.

Motorcycles are rented at the time of reservation and are included in the cost.  The bike frame size must correspond to your height, and due to the limited availability of each size, we highly recommend that you supply this information in advance. 

You may bring the bike in good condition for the trip.  If you are bringing your motorcycle, you may enter via India or use the planes for its transport.  Ensure that the motorcycles are appropriately packed.

A repair center is located along the route.  The backup vehicle and the guide will transport the necessary repair tools and spare parts.  Our guides are certified technicians with extensive expertise in bike maintenance throughout the travels.

You may reserve the lodging based on your requirements.  We provide a carefully maintained and clean hotel equipped with hot and cold water and telephone service 

A valid license from your nation is required to participate in the tour. If there is some sort of damage, you will be safe if you have a valid license. There will be no fines or imprisonment.

The ride is secure for women.  A significant number of girls have undertaken the trek alongside us.  Bhutan is among the most secure countries for travelers.

Bhutan follows Bhutan Time (BTT), which is UTC/GMT +6 hours. This time zone remains consistent throughout the year.

No, Bhutan does not observe daylight saving time. The country maintains the same time year-round.

 Yes, if your phone has roaming and automatic time settings enabled.

 Bhutan is 15 minutes ahead of Nepal and 30 minutes ahead of India.

Both 12-hour and 24-hour formats are commonly used. Clarify with your guide if unsure.

You need a visa and all necessary permits for your trip. These documents can not be received on the day of your arrival, so they must be processed before coming here. After you book a trip with us, we will manage these papers for you. Your Bhutan visa is arranged by Orrog as part of the package.

The main way to come to Bhutan is through Paro International Airport, which is well-connected to cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, and Singapore. Most people arrive by air, but if you plan to come via road, you can enter through Phuentsholing, located on the southern border with India, which is the most commonly used entry point. 

It is recommended to apply for the visa at least 20 days before your planned departure date so that there is enough time for processing your Bhutan visa, finalizing your itinerary, and arranging your guides and transportation. Although visa processing itself is relatively fast once payment is received, early preparation helps avoid delays and ensures availability, especially during peak seasons (spring and autumn).

You don’t require a passport-size photo for the visa, but it is wise to carry at least 2–4 recent passport-sized photographs during your trip. These may be needed for local permits, registration, or when applying for a local SIM card upon arrival in Bhutan.

Yes, you can lengthen your stay in Bhutan either before or after your trip. Bhutan’s tourism model requires visitors to pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and a daily package cost, so any extra days will involve additional charges. Extensions are a great opportunity to explore cultural sites in Paro, Thimphu, or even add another short trip or day hike.

Yes, Bhutan requires full tour payment in advance before your visa can be processed and issued. The government of Bhutan regulates this policy to ensure that all travel arrangements are confirmed through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. We are a licensed tour operator that ensures you have everything you need for a trouble-free trip.

Any personal expenses are not covered in the package like:

• Tips for your guide and other staff
• Bottled drinks and snacks(personal expense)
• Souvenirs or local crafts

Credit cards are easily accepted in major cities like Paro and Thimphu. But in remote areas, you may not have access to a card or an ATM. So, it is best to carry some cash before heading for the trip. 

Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a widely appreciated gesture and a customary way to show gratitude for good service. The tipping guideline would be to give USD 5-10 per day as a tip for the guides and other staff.

Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan. It is well connected by flights from cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, and Singapore.

Yes, airport pick-up and drop-off are included in the package. We will have your guide and driver meet you at the airport and transport you to your hotel.

While Bhutan's roads are mostly paved, some parts are narrow, winding, and occasionally affected by weather. However, we ensure your travel is safe, well-maintained, and driven by an experienced professional throughout the journey.

The Bhutanese Ngultrum is used in Bhutan. All local transactions during the trip will be in BTN.

US Dollars (USD) are generally accepted at larger hotels, souvenir shops, and tour operators, particularly in Paro and Thimphu. However, it’s advisable to convert your currency to BTN for general purchases in rural areas. Other currencies like the Euro or the Pound are not commonly accepted directly.

No, credit or debit cards are not accepted on the trip, as it takes you through remote regions with no banking or electronic payment access. All trip-related payments like accommodation, meals, permits, etc, are paid in advance. 

You can exchange foreign currency at the Paro International Airport, at banks, or through licensed money changers in cities like Thimphu and Paro. It's best to exchange enough cash before heading out on the trip.

The national language is Dzongkha, but many Bhutanese also speak English. If you speak English and are worried about communicating with the local people, you will have your guide as a translator. 

Yes, all licensed tour guides in Bhutan are required to speak fluent English. Many are also trained in other languages such as German, Japanese, or French. Communication during the trip will be smooth and clear in English.

Most signboards, tourist maps, and information brochures are written in English, especially in tourist destinations like Paro, Thimphu, and trailheads. Directional signs along routes are often labeled in both Dzongkha and English.

No, learning Dzongkha is not at all needed for the trip, but knowing a few basic words like "Kuzu zangpo la" (Hello) or "Kadrinche la" (Thank you) is a good way to interact with the locals.

Language barriers are minimal, as your guide will handle all communication with locals and support staff. Your guide will translate for you during your interaction with the locals.

To greet people, you can greet with locals “Kuzu zangpo la” (Hello) by performing a slight bow. Most common greetings include physical greetings, such as shaking hands less visible, especially in rural areas.

Yes, but remember to seek permission, especially when taking photos of monks, locals, or temples. Please note that clicking photos is not allowed at most religious sites.

Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully. This means:

• Covering shoulders and knees
• Removing hats and sunglasses
• Not wearing shorts or sleeveless tops

 This applies to both men and women.

Yes, Bhutanese society is deeply rooted in Buddhism and tradition. Here are some key taboos:

• Do not point your feet at people or sacred objects
• Never touch anyone on the head, as it is considered sacred
• Walk clockwise around temples, stupas, and religious monuments
• Avoid public displays of affection

While gifts are not expected, they may be accepted graciously if given with respect. It is advisable to consult with the guide before giving out anything.

Yes, souvenirs can be bought in Paro or Thimphu before or after the trip.

Some popular souvenirs include hand-woven textiles (kira and gho fabric), prayer flags, thangka (religious scroll) paintings, handmade paper products, traditional masks, and Buddhist artifacts.

You can do some gentle bargaining in local street markets. However, in government-run shops and fixed-price stores, prices are usually non-negotiable.

Yes, you can easily purchase a SIM card upon arrival in Bhutan. We will assist you with the process, and you'll need a passport copy and a passport-sized photo.

No, internet access is not available during the trip. However, Wi-Fi is available in hotels in Paro and Thimphu before and after the trip.

We provide well-maintained bikes for rent. You can also bring your own bike with the proper permits.

Helmets are provided by us, but you’re encouraged to bring your own riding jacket, gloves, boots, and pants for the best fit and protection. We also offer full gear rental service in case you don’t want to carry yours.

Yes, a backup vehicle will follow the group, carrying luggage, spare parts, a mechanic, and first-aid supplies.

Roads vary from well-paved highways to gravel and rugged mountain routes. You should be confident in handling a bike on mixed terrain.

You will typically ride for 4–7 hours per day with breaks for sightseeing, meals, and photography.

Yes, Bhutan has relatively low traffic and cautious drivers. However, due to winding roads and changing weather, caution and skill are essential.

A trained mechanic travels with the group for technical issues. In case of a medical emergency, first aid is available, and evacuation can be arranged if necessary.

 Essentials include layered clothing, rain gear, riding boots, sunglasses, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and personal medication.

You should carry a well-fitting helmet, an armored jacket, gloves, protective pants, and riding boots for comfort and safety while driving along the mixed terrain.

The package includes bike rental, fuel, all accommodations and meals, guide, support vehicle, mechanic, entrance fees, permits, and airport transfers.

It’s recommended to book at least 2–3 months in advance, especially for group rides or during popular seasons like spring and autumn, because of a comparatively larger number of travellers.