Embark on a journey to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, to partake in one of the world’s most thrilling and scenic motorsport events, the Thunder Dragon Rally. This epic adventure takes motoring enthusiasts through picturesque landscapes, winding mountain roads, and lush green valleys teeming with diverse flora and fauna. The rally offers a unique blend of adrenaline-pumping excitement and serene enjoyment of Bhutan’s untouched natural beauty, enriched by the country’s rich cultural heritage and the warm hospitality of its people. From the sheer cliffs of Dochula Pass to the tranquil ambiance of Paro Valley, the Thunder Dragon Rally is not just a test of endurance and driving skill, but also an immersive journey into the heart of Bhutan’s mesmerising attractions. By embarking on the Thunder Dragon Rally, you are not only accepting a motorsport challenge, but also stepping into an unforgettable exploration of Bhutan’s enchanting landscapes and enduring traditions.
All you need is an international driving license and a sense of adventure!
Did you know there were no roads in Bhutan until the 1960s? Now, the National Highway, which stretches from the western-most to eastern-most region of the country, mirrors the same route as the ancient foot trail that once connected the Kingdom for all of its trade and transport. Carved around the high Himalayan mountains and bisected through rivers, the roads are an engineering marvel.
The Bhutanese roads in the inner Himalaya are for the adventure and thrill seeker. They are often narrow, surprisingly winding, and run as curious black ribbons through great swathes of forests. The inner Himalayan wonderland teems with wildlife and explosions of wildflower blossoms, with the roads rising and falling dramatically through the valleys. The Inner Himalaya region is characterised by deeply cut valleys rising into considerable heights. As you go further east from Thimphu-Punakha, the altitude varies considerably. The roads run amid rice fields, forests, and along the edge of clean Himalayan rivers. As you ascend higher up, toward the heart of central Bhutan, leaving the vine-tangled woods, you meet forests of oaks, magnolia, and great rhododendrons. Further away toward the east, the roads are surprised by giant streams leaping off heart squeezing heights of cliffs. And yeah — for the adventurous ones! — showers of boulders.
Itinerary
24th October, Day 1: Arrival in Paro
Upon arrival into Paro, you’ll be welcomed with a traditional blessing and spiritual cleansing with a high lama at either a heritage farm home or private monastery in the area. After the ceremony, witness a sacred song and dance ceremony, before your first taste of Bhutan rally driving: the hour-long journey to Thimphu. In the evening, attend an authentic bonfire and traditional Bhutanese cultural event at Zhiwaling Ascent, before settling in for your first night in Bhutan.
25th October, Day 2: Thimphu and Punakha
On your second day in Bhutan, visit the iconic Buddha Dordenma Statue in Thimphu before the two-hour drive to Punakha, with a gradient of 1,673m ascent and 2,944m descent. Upon arrival, head out on a river rafting expedition in Punakha before taking a break with a comfortable riverside picnic. Afterwards, explore the Punakha Dzong with a renowned Bhutanese architect, before laying your head down for the night at Dhensa Boutique Resort.
26th October, Day 3: Talo Tsechu and Phobjikha
Today, attend the Talo Tshechu festival in Punakha, a celebration of the birth of Guru Rimpoche, the Second Buddha, before continuing on the three-hour uphill drive to Phobjikha. When you arrive, explore the magnificent Gangtay Monastery before lunch at your hotel in Phobjikha and an archery lesson with a national champion. Spend the night at Gangtey Lodge.
27th October, Day 4: Bumthang
Drive the five-hour journey to Bumthang today, traversing an ascent of 869m ascent and descent of 1,777m. Along the way, stop at Trongsa Dzong for a delightful picnic complete with local delicacies at Chumey village, Bumthang, and an optional horseback ride through the stunning countryside. Spend the night at Mountain Resort.
28th October, Day 5: Bumthang and Tang Valley
Today, venture out onto a spiritual pilgrimage to a selection of special monasteries in Bumthang, before the three-hour drive to Tang Valley, stopping for lunch at a local hotspot in Bumthang. This afternoon, head out on a tour of the Ogyenchholing Museum with one of Bhutan’s most acclaimed historians and curators. Spend another night at Mountain Resort Bumthang.
29th October, Day 6: Fly to Paro
Today, fly to Paro – a short flight of approximately 30 minutes. After arriving at your hotel, indulge in a herbal treatment and consultation, before resting your head at the Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary.
30th October, Day 7: Tiger’s Nest Monastery
On your final day in Bhutan, hike to the iconic Tigessr’s Nest Monastery for a spectacular mountainside picnic lunch. Afterwards, settle into another herbal consultation and treatment at your hotel, before your final night at Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary.
To secure your spot at the Bhutan Thunder Dragon Rally, contact info@savilerowtravel.co.uk, call +44 1491 575 987 or pop into our Henley-on-Thames office in Gardiner Place (next to Gails).