CREATING OUR SPIRITUAL MTB ADVENTURE IN BHUTAN

SEEKING THE UNKNOWN

We’ve been running mountain bike tours in Nepal for over a decade, but in 2019, our curiosity got the best of us, leading us to explore whether neighbouring Bhutan held the key to our next great adventure. For centuries, it remained untouched by outside influence, allowing its rich tapestry of cultures and unique traditions to flourish. When it opened its doors to the world in the mid-20th century, it offered a glimpse into a nation that has embraced modernity while steadfastly preserving its heritage. Today, Bhutan can be enjoyed by visitors from around the world, with the nation taking a ‘high value, low impact’ approach to tourism.

H+I founder Euan teamed up with local MTB legend Pelden Dorji to explore this lesser-travelled region of the Himalayas, and from that collaboration, our Spiritual MTB Adventure was born.

But what makes this adventure stand out from the rest?

Images by Kristina Vackova

A WARM WELCOME TO BHUTAN

This peaceful Buddhist nation values compassion, inclusivity, and hospitality in everything it does. Bhutanese people are known for their warm, welcoming nature, and as soon as you step off the plane in Paro, you’ll feel embraced by the community. Locals are more than happy to share their rich history and culture with visitors.

As you travel to the capital, Thimphu, you’ll see how ancient tradition blends seamlessly with modern innovation. This careful balance ensures that Bhutan’s core values remain at the forefront of the nation’s evolution. Bhutan measures its progress using the philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH), which prioritises the well-being and happiness of its citizens over economic growth.

The country’s commitment to cultural preservation is evident in its vibrant customs and traditions. Archery, or da, is the national sport and is played widely across communities. Colourful religious festivals, like the Tsechu, are celebrated with exuberant dances, traditional music, and elaborate costumes, offering a vivid reflection of Bhutan’s spirituality.

THE SPICE OF LIFE

You won’t just be welcomed to Bhutan with a warm greeting from its people, but also through its cuisine. Red, green, dried, pickled, and even raw—chillies play an important role in nearly every Bhutanese meal. Ema Datshi, the national dish of Bhutan, is made with chilli peppers and cheese.

Much of Bhutan’s cuisine is rooted in its rich heritage and deep connection to its landscapes. Buckwheat, red rice, chillies, yak milk cheese, and potatoes are staples in a variety of traditional Bhutanese dishes. What may seem like simple ingredients are elevated by the use of local spices, bringing warmth and depth to every dish. After a long day in the mountains, a comforting meal cooked with care will always be waiting for you at the dinner table.

Like in many countries around the world, tea is one of the most popular beverages in Bhutan. Suja, or “butter tea,” is a comforting brew made from yak milk, tea leaves, and salt. While many of us are used to starting our mornings with a warm cup of coffee, locals enjoy copious amounts of salty Suja before their day even begins. It is also believed to be a natural remedy for altitude sickness due to the high levels of antioxidants found in yak milk.

A MOUNTAIN BIKER’S ‘SHANGRI-LA’

From the towering Himalayas in the North to the subtropical forests and jungles of the south, Bhutan is the perfect place for mountain bikers to test their mettle. Over 70% of the country is blanketed in untouched woodlands, and miles of rustic singletrack winds through the landscape.

Descending from high-altitude mountain passes into lush green valleys, you’ll experience the raw beauty of Bhutan’s thriving ecosystems, where biodiversity flourishes at every turn. The descents are plentiful, but they must be earned. The rugged, untouched landscapes mean there is plenty of hike-a-bike and climbing to be done. It’s mountain biking at its most wild.

You can expect thrilling 15-20 km descents packed with rocks, roots, switchbacks, and everything in between. As you ride, you’ll weave through colourful prayer flags, exploring trails that lead past ancient Dzongs, monuments, and monasteries—perfect spots to pause, take in the view, and soak up Bhutan’s rich culture.

In a world that’s always in a rush, Bhutan provides a quiet sanctuary for those looking to escape the frenzy of modern life. In the words of seasoned H+I adventurer, Robert, “If you want an adventure and have any capacity for awe or wonder, Bhutan is for you.”

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CREATING OUR SPIRITUAL MTB ADVENTURE IN BHUTAN

A WARM WELCOME TO BHUTAN

THE SPICE OF LIFE

A MOUNTAIN BIKER’S ‘SHANGRI-LA’

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