Race Through the Himalayas at the Bhutan International Marathon
Trip Overview
Experience the Bhutan International Marathon Tour, a unique 7-day journey that combines world-class running with Bhutan’s rich culture and spectacular Himalayan landscapes. The marathon route takes you through scenic valleys, traditional villages, riverside trails, and lush farmlands, offering an unforgettable running experience in one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations.
Beyond race day, discover Bhutan’s cultural treasures by visiting ancient monasteries, majestic dzongs, and sacred temples across western and central Bhutan. Explore the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, often called the “Switzerland of Bhutan,” enjoy authentic Bhutanese cuisine at a traditional farmhouse, and immerse yourself in the country’s warm hospitality.
Complete your adventure with a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan’s most famous landmark, perched high on a dramatic cliff. Every step of the Bhutan International Marathon also supports youth and Olympic sports development in Bhutan, making your journey both rewarding and meaningful. Whether you are an experienced marathon runner or an adventure traveler, this tour offers the perfect blend of sport, culture, and Himalayan discovery.
At a Glance
US $1,600 per Person
📅 Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
👥 Group size : 2 person & above
📄 Tour Type: Bhutan Intern. Marathon
🏔️ Highest Elevation : 3150m
📊 Tour grade Level : Moderate/Hard
🚶 Average walking Time : 3-7 Hours(21-42 Km)
🌄 Best Seasons : March
🛏️ Accommodation : Hotels
Tour Highlights
✅️ Marathon race route passes through villages, forest and farmland.
✅️ Explore the key cultural sites of Western Bhutan.
✅️ Profit made from through this event will support Bhutan’s Youth and Olympic sports programs.
✅️ Discover scared monasteries, temples and Fortresses
✅️ Visit local farm house to experience typical dinner and drinks.
✅️ Your trip will conclude in Paro with a climb to the stunning cliff-side Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 (4 March, Thursday) : Paro
During the journey, one will experience breath-taking view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks including the sacred Jumolhari and Mount Jichu Drakein Bhutan. On arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be received by your guide and transfer you farm house in Paro. On arrival to farm house you will greeted by the family of the farm house. Visiting a farm house offers a good glimpse into the lifestyle of a farmer. Later in the afternoon you will visit Paro Dzong. It was built in 17th century and now houses government offices and religious institutions. Then you will visit Kichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the country built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in 8th century. In the evening you can stroll in the paro town. Overnight at hotel in Paro.
Day 2 (5 March, Friday) : Paro – Punakha
After breakfast this morning, enjoy the scenic drive to Punakha. The road leads trough the Paro valley to the confluence of Paro and Thimphu. On the way you will, you will stop for tea at Dochu La (3,100 meters), where on a clear day you can get spectacular views of the Eastern Himalayas. You will visit the Druk Wangyel Monastery, which is the only of its kind in the country with elaborate painting depicting the linage of the present Monarchy and their visionary works. From the pass, drive downhill through the forests of rhododendron, fir and hemlock. You will arrive Punakha after traversing through rice field and along the bank of Punakha River. On the way to Punakha, you will stop at Metsina village and take a 20 minute walk through the rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, which is a fertility temple. Overnight hotel in Punakha.
Day 3 (6 March, Saturday) : Punakha
After breakfast, you will drive to Damchen Resort in Khuruthang for Packet Pick Up and also for pre-race briefing. Later in the afternoon, visit the Punakha Dzong, which is stunningly situated inbetween the male and female rivers like an anchored ship. Overnight hotel in Punakha
Day 4 (7 March, Sunday) : Punakha Marathon Race
Today you will participate in Bhutan International Marathon, followed by the prize award ceremony.
Day 5 (8 March, Monday) : Punakha – Thimphu
Today breakfast, you will drive to Thimphu via Dochula pass. You will visit the King’s Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan); visit the mini zoo where you will see national animal of Bhutan Takin, and the majestic Tashichhodzong, visit Buddha statue, which is presumed to be the largest Bronze statue in the world. The three storied high throne of the statue will consists of temples on each floor. Traditional paper factory, visit Post office were you can personalize your stamp, Traditional Paper Factory, Evening: Strollthrough the town. Overnight hotel in Thimphu.
Day 6 (9 March, Tuesday) : Paro-Thimphu, Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Today after early breakfast, you will drive to Paro then Hike to Taktsang(Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, which is Bhutan’s most famous monastery situated at 3180 meters. Guru Rinpoche (spiritual master) is said to have flown on the back of a tigress from Singye Dzong in Lhuntse to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands. The Moanstery is perched on the edge of a steep cliff, about 900 meters above Paro Valley. Lunch will be served at the Cafeteria. Explore the monastery and hike back to the valley. In the evening visit a traditional farmhouse and if you wish, enjoy a typical Bhutanese dinner. Overnight hotel in Paro.
Day 7 (10 March, Wednesday) : Depart Paro
Drive to the airport for departure. Our representative will bid you farewell.
Cost Includes
✓ Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
✓ VISA Fee
✓ Accommodation
✓ All meals
✓ Transport
✓ All internal taxes & charges
✓ Licensed Bhutanese Tour Guide
Cost Excludes
✗ Flight tickets
✗ Insurance
✗ Drinks and Beverages
✗ Tips
✗ Internet and Phone bills
✗ Other bills of personal nature
Insurance
Note: Package does not include insurance of any kind.
You are required to obtain separate coverage from your home country before your trip begins.