Thimphu, Bhutan
Embark upon a day spent exploring Thimphu by Mountain Bike.
Bhutan, with its diverse topological features, makes for a perfect mountain biking destination for intrepid bikers.Begin by cycling to Kuenselphodrang, also known as Buddha Point.Here you may offer prayers to the largest Buddha statue in the country before basking in Thimphu’s picturesque valley during a leisurely stroll through the surrounding area.
The ride to Buddha Point is approximately 3.7 miles. It is a 30 minute ride along smooth, uphill roads leading to an elevation of roughly 7600 feet.From there, continue to the National Memorial Chorten.The National Memorial Chorten was built in 1974 in memory of the late Third Druk Gyalpo (King) of Bhutan.
At the Chorten, you will find an extraordinary depiction of Buddhist teachings in the form of paintings and sculptures. The chorten is located approximately 3 miles from Buddha Point. The ride will take 15 minutes, as you will travel mostly downhill along smooth roads.
Afterwards, return to your hotel and enjoy lunch.After lunch, depart the hotel and begin cycling towards Sangaygang.Pause along the way to visit the Takin Preserve Center.The Takin is the national animal of Bhutan, and looks like a cross between a cow and a goat. Legend has it that the animal was created by the great Buddhist yogi, Drupa Kunley, and it can be found only in Bhutan and nearby areas.
Continue to the Sangaygang View Point, where you can enjoy wholly-encompassing views of the Thimphu Valley as you walk amongst the hundreds of colorful prayer flags dotting the valley. The viewpoint is located approximately 4.3 miles from the chorten. The ride will take approximately 30 minutes along smooth, uphill roads.
Afterwards, venture downhill to the 15th Century Changangkha Lhakhang Monastery.Changangkha Lhakhang is a fortress-like temple and monastic school set along a ridge high above Thimphu. View Chenrezig, a statue of an 11-headed manifestation. This 12th Century Temple provides visitors with wondrous views of the expansive Thimphu Valley.From there, make your wards to Drupthob Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s few surviving nunneries.
Late this afternoon, as you ride downhill back towards the hotel, pause to take in a stunning view of Trashichhoedzong.