The race starts in Bumthang, central Bhutan, and ends in the capital, Thimphu. It is considered one of the world’s toughest one day mountain bike races.
Total distance: 268 km
Duration: one day
Mountain passes crossed: 4 (major ones)
Villages: 28
Fortresses/castles/temples: 14
Vegetation enroute: Bamboo groves, fir, oak, rhododendron and birch forests, alpine flowers.
Bumthang
From Bumthang, central Bhutan (2610m, 8560 ft), the riders climb through blue pine forest to Kiki La at 2870m (9420 ft), Yotongla at 3430m (11250 ft), then downhill to Trongsa (2150m, 7050ft).
Trongsa
Pass by the imposing Trongsa castle-fortress and the Watch Tower, then weave through fir, birch, oak and rhododendron forest, open pastures, rock outcrops, and agricultural fields. Reach Chendebji Stupa and Chendebji village (2430m, 7970 ft) and climb to Pelela pass (3430m, 11250 ft). From here, it is a long descent to Wangdue Phodrang.
Wangduephodrang
From this scenic place of farms, castles and temples, we reach Metshina (1410m – 4625 ft), then to Dochula at 3150m (10,330 ft) The uphill ride is as breathtaking as the views.
Thimphu
From Dochula, it is all downhill to Thimphu at 2330 m (7640 ft).
Awards
Finishers Medal and Certificate for all finishers
Roving medical and technical support
Special Awards to top finishers.
