Bhutan Mountain Biking tour

Let me share what I experienced there. When I arrived at Paro and preparing my bike, I found my dropper post didn't work and feel disappointed imagining I cannot use this when I decending. After consulting this issue with chief guide(SP) he removed it and tried to fix by next morning. Unfortunately, there was no replacement part he couldn't fix it. But he never gave up and try to find same size one from Bhutan MTB community then he finally found it ! I was really happy to continue my trip without any trouble, and route was also great! I visited many countries for MTB riding and I can say Bhutan is one no best place for MTB and riding in Bhutan is once in a lifetime event for me.

This was a bucket list trip for a long time and I finally got the chance to go in April 2025. Bhutan is truly stunning at every turn and the people, food, architecture and of course the mountain biking trails were truly memorable. The first couple of days were spent in Thimphu which was a great introduction to what was to come with a variety of what I would consider green rated trails which twisted and turned in the hills above. Day 3 was my personal favorite trail - the Madman trail which is perhaps the best trail i've ever ridden - 3 sections which a variety of terrain from rooty, rocky sections with drop offs to super fast and flowy sections towards the bottom. The forest scenery was simply sublime. I'd rate this a black for part 1 and 2 to blue at the bottom. The most challenging trails both physically and technically were saved to last with the incredible climb to the Tiger's nest and beyond followed by another amazing trail in the mountains of Paro. The Tiger's nest trail will really test any rider with 1500m of elevation gain up steep narrow trails. There was no chance to relax on the downhill as we had to navigate steep, exposed switchbacks but the experience was incredible. I'd say these were both black rated trails. Our final trails was the Gela trail, another 600m climb awaited us but along a relatively gentle trail through pine forest to approx 3500m before another amazing descent which was especially technical and fun towards the last few km. Each ride got progressively more difficult which stretched the group out but we have ST at the front for the quicker riders and SP at the back so there was no feeling of being under pressure from anyone and they were amazingly supportive. I'd recommend for any enduro / downhill enthusiast and anyone seeking an adventure. The organization throughout was seamless, the driver was very safe, friendly and attentive, the hotels all very comfortable and there was no way to go hungry with endless choices of dishes for each meal. The rest day was also great with a nice hike followed by some rafting. I'd highly recommend this trip if you're looking for a trip of a lifetime.

The TL;DR version of this review: Mountain biking with Bhutan Rides is an adventure like no other! If you're reading this, you should just do it! The trails are epic, the scenery is unreal, and the team is absolutely top-notch. Pelden and his crew know all sorts of hidden gems in Bhutan, from untouched routes to adrenaline-pumping descents. Whether you’re an intermediate or a more seasoned rider, they’ll craft a ride that’s as challenging as it is unforgettable. The guides—Pelden, SP, and ST—are legends. Amazing riders, full of cultural insights, and just plain fun to be around. SP had us cracking up one moment and enthralled with Bhutanese history the next. And the drivers who shuttled us around were great too. Pelden is so full of grace and kindness—he truly is an incredible ambassador for his country, which they are all so proud of (and they should be!). Our 12-day trip had it all: challenging climbs, incredible descents, and plenty of chances to soak in the absolutely breathtaking scenery. Off the bike, it’s all about excellent accommodation and great food that fuels the adventure. We even got the chance to sneak in some white-water rafting! Riding with Bhutan Rides is the kind of experience that I know will stick with me forever. If you get the chance, I couldn't recommend it more! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime ride you’ll never forget.