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Bhutan

Bhutan, the kingdom in the sky, Druk yul, 'the land of the Thunder Dragon", was first opened to tourists in 1974 in a very regulated manner. Today this mountain kingdom is perhaps the world's most exclusive destination in the heart of the Himalaya. We enter from West Bengal and ride the valleys, climb the passes through virgin jungle and forest, past the ancient Dzong Forts of the capital Thimphu and on into the heart of the Kingdom at Bhumthang.

The Kingdom of Bhutan is a destination known to few, distant from the western world both geographically and in culture. Less than 6,000 foreigners traveled here in 2003, an amazingly low figure when you consider that this amount can easily turn the styles into the Grand Canyon National Park in less than two hours! Bhutan sounds like the perfect place for H-C Travel.
Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is sandwiched between Tibet and India. For the touring enthusiast, this tiny land offers the qualities we all seek when travelling on two wheels: a diversity of stunning scenery, an inviting population, political tranquility and exotic culture found within a small geographical package, quality riding that stimulates the senses at every mile, and the sense that this is a unique experience.

Bhutan’s cautious limitation of tourism and outside influence has paid off. The statistics are impressive: 72% of the country is forested, over 770 species of birds, over 165 species of mammals and an astonishing 5,500 species of plants. So few places on Earth offer such unspoiled beauty. The flora and fauna are remarkably pristine. The entire country is mountainous, shadowed by the towering snowcapped Himalayas - you'll ride through lush green valleys sculpted over time by great rivers, never far from the imposing views of the world’s highest peaks.

The natural and well preserved beauty of Bhutan is no accident. Life is guided here by the deep spirituality of Buddhism, with its roots dating back to the 7th century. In Bhutan, all things living are valued and revered, a harmony with nature and fellow man that will be evident as you encounter the natives throughout your journey.

In 2008, we revised our tour route, taking advantage of the improved roads in the region to create what we believe is the optimal route for experiencing Bhutan and north-eastern India!

The highlights of this event are not marked by the usual "tourist" sights found on souvenir post cards. It is the beauty of Bhutan's' nature, ancient traditions, gracious peoples and the joy of sharing this extremely special experience with others that make this tour so special.

The 17th century Drukyel Dzong (Monastery fortress), is one of many such religious edifices to be encountered in your travels famous Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Hermitage on the face of a sheer 1,000 m cliff will be forever etched in your mind ... an incredible photo-opportunity.

You will be riding into thin air as you cross a number of high passes offering magnificent views the eastern Himalayas.

Take the Nikka Shu road carved out of the side of a cliff overlooking the Mangde Chu River.

And of course it’s not all motorcycling! There will be time to purchase colourful artisans goods, hike the mountains, and engage the gracious locals.

Why tour Bhutan?

• A truly intriguing kingdom, little seen or understood by Westerners for centuries
• Experience a uniquely pure Buddhist approach to living
• Some joyous riding, often on narrow and twisting cliff-hanging mountain roads
• Unique lifestyle and customs – the closest to time travel you are likely to experience

Why tour Bhutan with H-C Travel?

• Small groups of 2-8 riders
• Experienced tour guide and local crew, we ran the first authorized tour to Bhutan in 1998
• Approved by the Bhutan government, and licensed in the UK
• Featuring Royal Enfield 500 cc and 650 cc

Your guide

Alam Hussein, who started working for us a mechanic when he was 16, has been guiding tours since 2005. He has been on over 100 tours in India and the Himalayas as rider, mechanic or guide. Alam is no mean rider either. He participated in the Himalayan Raid Rally in 2004, 2005 and 2006, and came second in his class in 2005. And when not working to make your tour the best possible riding experience, Alam runs a motorcycle repair business and custom bike building shop in Dehredun that is famous throughout India.

I believe that one would have to search high, low & far to find a better tour leader than Alam who was most ably supported by his driver and mechanic - both quiet, but most responsible guys, who ensured that the bikes were ready to roll each morning, and always in show-room condition!

Trevor Millett (ex-professional tour guide), UK, 2011

Alam’s team

Without his reliable local support team, the logistics of running our tour programme in Northern India, Bhutan and Tibet would be well-nigh impossible. Our chief mechanic is Biru, who has worked on our tours since 2000, and our support/luggage vehicle driver is Bopinder, who joined in 2002. They are usually supported by two assistant mechanics.

Visa requirements

Visas are required for UK and EU citizens to India and Bhutan (if you are not an EU citizen, please check with your local Indian Embassy or travel agent). You will be sent further details once you have paid for your tour in full (usually visas can only be issued less than three months before the required dates). An Indian multiple entry visa costs about £60, with processing fees if you wish to use a visa processing agency, of about £40. We will arrange your Bhutan visa, which is included in our price, after your arrival in India.

Photo and video album (coming soon)

Articles

Bullets over Bhutan, 1998 Please click here

Websites

For UK government information and advice www.fco.gov.uk

For Indian visa services www.rossconsular.com

For Indian visas http://in.vfsglobal.co.uk.

Indian Tourist Board www.tourisminindia.com/

Bhutan Tourism http://www.kingdomofbhutan.com/

Bhutan Dept of Tourism http://designindia.com/dotbhutan/

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