e-MTB IN BHUTAN.
TRAILS, CULTURE & ADVENTURE
BETWEEN PRAYER FLAGS

BHUTAN – A KINGDOM FOR eMOUNTAINBIKERS?

Bhutan – the small Himalayan kingdom – evokes myths and magic: monasteries clinging to cliffs, fluttering prayer flags, and a focus on Gross National Happiness rather than GDP. But is it also a kingdom for eMountainbiking?

To find out, HAIBIKE Ambassador Tom Öhler and photographer Martin Bissig set out with their LYKE eMTBs - and discover Tandin Wang, one of Asia’s top Enduro riders, as the key to Bhutan’s trail world.

FIRST TURNS ON HISTORIC PATHS

The first rides around Thimphu follow centuries-old paths that once connected villages and monasteries. Today, these are perfect singletracks: sometimes flowing, sometimes technical, always framed by Bhutan’s deep-rooted culture. Prayer flags flutter in the wind as dust rises beneath the tires. Riders race down through corridors of white, blue, red, and yellow flags, passing temples along the way. At the end, the view opens onto a large Buddha statue overlooking the capital – a striking introduction that leaves you wanting more.

THE “MADMAN TRAIL” – A LEGEND IN THE MOUNTAINS

Early in the morning, the three riders are shuttled with their bikes along roads and forest trails to a monastery. After meeting monks and exploring the sacred interior, they begin the climb on partially muddy trails and through dense forest to another mystical monastery at 3,500 meters. From here begins the Madman Trail: over 2,000 vertical meters through diverse vegetation zones. Roots, technical sections, jumps, switchbacks – a trail that breathes history and makes Enduro dreams come true.

Further down, the vegetation gradually changes, and the riders reach a small village. Its buildings are adorned with traditional symbols meant to ward off spirits, which have also, over recent years, turned the village into a charming and amusing tourist spot.

CULTURE MEETS GRAVITY: TIGER`S NEST.

In the Punakha Valley, the day starts with monasteries and ceremonies, followed by the “Prince’s Trail.” Still under development, it is set to host the Asian Enduro Series in about two years. Raw, yet symbolic: mountain biking has arrived in Bhutan, even on a royal level.

Then comes the famous Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest – Bhutan’s iconic landmark. Tom, Martin, and Tandin set out early, before sunrise, to beat the crowds. A two-hour climb brings them to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the monastery perched in the cliff face. A few shots later, it’s time to descend: while pilgrims make their way up on foot, the riders find their line down – tight, steep, technical – and one of the best runs of the entire trip, according to Tom.