Steppes Exclusive
Created exclusively for Steppes clients, this extraordinary journey is available nowhere else.
Bhutan 4×4 Self-Drive Adventure
Uncrowded routes with remarkable views, accessible exclusively through Steppes.
| Start date | End date | Days |
Prices from
ex. flights |
Single Supplement | Tour Expert | Group Size | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13/02/27 | 25/02/27 | 13 days | £5,345 pp | £2,150 | Local Guides | 8 Max | AVAILABLE | Reserve place |
| 27/02/27 | 11/03/27 | 13 days | £5,345 pp | £2,150 | Local Guides | 8 Max | AVAILABLE | Reserve place |
Experience Bhutan on an epic 4×4 self-drive adventure, travelling through remote valleys and over mountain passes. Uncover a land where tradition, spirituality and nature remain beautifully intertwined.
With handpicked accommodation and expert local insight, each day offers something new, from local crafts to vibrant festivals and Himalayan views. Designed for travellers seeking both comfort and authenticity, this trip offers a meaningful connection to Bhutan’s people, landscapes and deep-rooted heritage. With two available departures, the first runs from Assam to Paro, while the second follows the reverse route, beginning in Paro and ending in Assam.
Key Highlights of this Itinerary
Sacred Temples
Discover Bumthang Valley, the country’s spiritual heartland known for its cultural history.
Diverse Landscapes
Witness breathtaking views from Himalayan mountains, to oak forests, to terraced rice fields.
Cultural Heritage
Along your journey, enjoy the warmth of Bhutan’s eastern hospitality in local villages.
-
Day 1
Assam
-
Day 2
Samdrup Jongkhar to Trashigang
-
Day 3
Trashigang
-
Day 4
Trashigang to Mongar
-
Day 5
Mongar to Bumthang
-
Day 6
Bumthang
-
Day 7
Bumthang to Gangtey
-
Day 8
Gangtey
-
Day 9
Gangtey to Punakha Valley
-
Day 10
Punakha Valley to Thimphu
-
Day 11
Thimphu to Paro
-
Day 12
Takstang Monastery
-
Day 13
Paro
Day 1
Assam
Arrive into Gauwhati Airport in India where you will be met by your guide and driven across the border into Bhutan. Here you will be given your Landcruiser for the next 13 days.
Day 2
Samdrup Jongkhar to Trashigang
Drive 180kms from Samdrup Jongkhar to Trashigang through pristine landscapes, from subtropical lowlands to temperate highlands, discovering Bhutan’s diverse scenery, vibrant eastern culture and the genuine warmth of local hospitality.
Day 3
Trashigang
Spend today at Trashigang. Here you will visit Trashigang Dzong, a 17th century fortress, Kora Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site and Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery.
Day 4
Trashigang to Mongar
Drive from Trashigang to Mongar today, around 91km. You’ll cross the Yadi Loop, a series of hairpin bends before reaching the Kori La Pass at 2,450m. The pass is adorned with fluttering prayer flags and offers spectacular views of the Eastern Himalayas.
Day 5
Mongar to Bumthang
The journey from Mongar to Bumthang crossing Bhutan’s highest motorable pass and offering spectacular scenery. You’ll also visit the picturesque Ura village and Ura Lhakhang temple.
Day 6
Bumthang
Enjoy today in Bumthang where you will visit Jakar Dzong, a 17th century fortress and Kurjeu Lhakang, a sacred temple complex.
Day 7
Bumthang to Gangtey
Today’s 188km drive will take you from Bumthang to Gangtey through more passes offering sweeping views. You will also visit Bhutan’s largest fortress and the Royal Heritage Museum providing deep insights into the Wangchuck dynasty.
Day 8
Gangtey
A day in the Phobjikha Valley, known as Nature’s sanctuary in Bhutan. Here you’ll discover a haven for wildlife, including the endangered black-necked cranes.
Day 9
Gangtey to Punakha Valley
Drive from Gangtey to Punakha Valley where you will find warmer climate and terraced rice fields. A short hike will take you to Chimi Lhakhang, a 15th century fertility temple.
Day 10
Punakha Valley to Thimphu
A shorter drive to Thimphu today, Bhutan’s vibrant capital. Visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. After, visit the takin sanctuary, a reserve dedicated to Bhutan’s national animal.
Day 11
Thimphu to Paro
Your self-driving ends when you reach Paro today, where sightseeing will take place via a shared transfer. Here, you will learn more about Bhutan’s rich culture and history.
Day 12
Takstang Monastery
Your final day is Bhutan’s most iconic experience – a hike to Takstang Monastery, known as ‘Tiger’s nest’. Perched on a cliff at 3,120m, this sacred monastery is well worth the 4-5 hour round trip. Enjoy a farewell dinner with your group over traditional Bhutanese cuisine this evening.
Day 13
Paro
You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.
Self Drive
Expedition Vehicles
Travelling in a sturdy Toyota Land Cruiser, well suited to Bhutan’s winding roads and varied terrain, gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace in comfort. With expert support and thoughtfully curated experiences, this journey unlocks access to lesser-visited regions, from remote valleys to high passes. Each day brings opportunities to pause for inspiring views, meet local communities and connect with the quiet rhythm of life in this extraordinary kingdom.
Culture
Takstang Monastery
The hike to Taktsang Monastery, or the Tiger’s Nest, is one of Bhutan’s most memorable highlights. The trail leads through pine forests lined with prayer flags, with viewpoints offering glimpses of the monastery high on the cliffside. Perched at 3,120 metres, Taktsang’s white walls and gilded roofs create a striking sight above the valley. Believed to be the meditation site of Guru Rinpoche, it remains a place of deep spiritual importance and remarkable beauty.
Wildlife
Phobjikha
Each winter, endangered black-necked cranes migrate from Tibet to the Phobjikha Valley, bringing their distinctive calls and graceful flight to this glacial landscape. At 3,000 metres, the valley is a vital sanctuary for these revered birds, and their arrival is celebrated throughout Bhutan. Surrounded by open meadows and pine-covered hills, Phobjikha offers a rare chance to watch the cranes in their natural habitat, whether gliding over the wetlands or feeding in the fields, reflecting Bhutan’s deep respect for nature.
What type of vehicle will I be driving, how old and what sort of mileage?
The vehicles provided will be Prado 2000 series, LJ120 models. The mileage will range from 150 to 300 km, depending on the vehicle. All vehicles are in very good condition and have manual transmission.
Do I need to be personally insured to drive in Bhutan, or is the vehicle itself insured?
Vehicles will be insured. For guests, regular travel insurance will be sufficient.
Will vehicles be automatic or manual?
All vehicles will be manual.
What is the plan in the event of a breakdown or an accident?
In the event of a breakdown, we will ensure that another vehicle is arranged immediately. We usually keep a crew backup vehicle as support, which also serves as a spare. If needed, the crew vehicle will be switched without delay.
Is there a first aid kit in each vehicle?
Yes, first aid kit will be available in all vehicles.
Are there two-way radios provided in the vehicles so I can stay in communication with the leader and other group members?
Yes, two-way will be radios will be arranged in all vehicles.
Is fuel included?
Yes, fuel is included in the price of the package. During the journey, necessary stops are made for refuelling.
Do you provide water?
Yes, there is no limitation on bottled water. Mineral water bottles will be restocked every morning.
Are lunches a combination of local restaurants and picnics? What sort of food can I expect? Are all meals enjoyed as a group?
Yes, most lunches are served at small local restaurants, allowing you to experience a variety of authentic regional dishes. Picnics are provided on remote segments where local eateries are not available. These are prepared by a trusted local supplier who prepares hot, freshly made picnics suitable for a 4×4 adventure route.
What is the minimum age for the trip?
This tour has no minimum or maximum age requirement. We have had clients with children as young as five years old. However, please note that this is an adventure tour where some routes might take significantly longer than scheduled due to the dynamic nature of the tour. Once you leave the main route, many unforeseen events can occur. If parents are aware of this, there is no minimum age requirement.
When do we sign the contracts for the vehicles?
All contracts and paperwork will be signed in advance, prior to your arrival in Bhutan, to ensure a smooth and hassle-free start to the tour.
Haven’t found what you’re looking for?
Includes / Excludes
Important Information
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
Single Supplement
Travelling on your own? Our group tours are perfect for solo travellers, as travelling as part of an organised group in faraway places provides security and peace of mind. We handle all of the arrangements for you and there will be a local tour guide on hand throughout to provide advice and help if needed, as well as the expertise of a Tour expert.
Flexibility
To allow flexibility, our group tours do not include international flights as standard. We can arrange international flights on your behalf, please get in touch with our travel experts for a quote. All international flights from the UK are ATOL protected.
What is included
- Accompanied by English speaking guides in a guide lead vehicle throughout
- Expedition vehicle hire, fuel and maintenance
- Vehicle repair costs in case of any damage or accidents: USD 200 per vehicle
- Bhutan visa and permits
- All airport transfers
- Meals from dinner on the first night to breakfast on the day of departure
- Sustainable Development Fee and entrance fees
What is excluded
- International flights
- Travel Insurance (mandatory)
- Alcoholic drinks
- Items of a personal nature
- Gratuities
- Indian Visa
Other available dates
For further information about any of these tours please call 01285 880 980
| Start date | End date | Days |
Prices from
ex. flights |
Tour Expert | Group Size | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13/02/27 | 25/02/27 | 13 days | £5,345 pp | Local Guides | 8 Max | AVAILABLE | Reserve place |
| 27/02/27 | 11/03/27 | 13 days | £5,345 pp | Local Guides | 8 Max | AVAILABLE | Reserve place |
Reserve your place on this group tour
Our travel experts have a wealth of first-hand knowledge, so if you have any questions about this expert-led group tour, please get in touch. They would love to help. We hope you can join us on this tour.
01285 880 980Send us an enquiry
Send us a message and one of our travel experts
will get right back to you.
Expert-Led Group Tours
Explore similar expert-led group tours
With an average group size of just eight to ten people our group tour itineraries enable you to travel to some of the most intriguing regions of the world in the company of expert guides in the field and, of course, with likeminded people.
Why Choose Steppes?
Our knowledge, curiosity and expertise set us apart, driving us to create remarkable holidays and Beautiful Adventures tailored perfectly to you, carefully curated to help protect and conserve our planet.
Are you ready to Discover Extraordinary?