The Dragon Kingdom Drive
Bhutan Himalayan Expedition

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The Dragon Kingdom Drive
Bhutan Himalayan Expedition

12th - 25th June ' 26

A rare Himalayan self-drive expedition designed for travellers who seek adventure with depth.

Over fourteen days, journey across India and Bhutan through evolving landscapes — from expressway highways and cultural heartlands to high Himalayan passes and sacred monasteries.

Experience Bhutan’s pristine valleys, the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the fortress of Punakha Dzong, and the spiritual aura of Bodh Gaya and Varanasi.

Structured as a curated convoy with expedition leadership, cultural immersion, and carefully selected stays, the Dragon Kingdom Drive blends exploration, comfort, and storytelling into one seamless journey.

Designed for a select circle of travellers who value the road as much as the destination.

Highlights

  • Curated self-drive expedition across India and Bhutan.
    • Drive across Himalayan mountain roads and high passes.
    • Visit the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro.
    • Cross the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100 m) with Himalayan views.
    • Explore Bhutan’s sacred valleys of Phobjikha and Bumthang.
    • Visit the historic Trongsa Dzong fortress monastery.
    • Experience white-water rafting in Punakha Valley.
    • Witness the sacred Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya.
    • Experience the timeless Ganga Aarti ceremony in Varanasi.
    • Expedition led by Madcap Luxe route captains and hosts.
    • Limited participant circle.

Cost

Per person: INR 2,69,000 + GST (≈ USD 3,200)

(Comprehensive inclusions shared post registration.)

Day
Itineary
The Beginning (Delhi → Gorakhpur)
The expedition begins across northern India’s expressways before reaching Gorakhpur, the gateway to eastern Himalayan routes.
Cultural Heartland (Gorakhpur → Mithilanchal)
Drive through the legendary land of Maa Sita, home to the globally celebrated Madhubani painting tradition.
Entering the Dragon Kingdom (Mithilanchal → Phuentsholing)
Cross into Bhutan and experience the first impressions of the Himalayan kingdom.
Capital of Bhutan (Phuentsholing → Thimphu)
Mountain roads climb toward Bhutan’s charming capital where tradition and modern life coexist.
Across the Passes (Thimphu → Phobjikha Valley)
Visit Buddha Dordenma, cross the spectacular Dochula Pass, and arrive in the serene Phobjikha Valley.
High Himalayan Route (Phobjikha → Bumthang)
Drive through dramatic landscapes, visit Trongsa Dzong, and cross Yongtala Pass (3,440 m).
Spiritual Valley (Bumthang Exploration)
Discover Bhutan’s sacred temples and visit the famous Red Panda Brewery & Factory.
River Valley (Bumthang → Punakha)
Arrive in Punakha Valley and experience white-water rafting on the Punakha River.
Fortress & Valley (Punakha → Paro)
Visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong before continuing to the beautiful valley of Paro.
Tiger’s Nest (Paro)
Hike to Bhutan’s most iconic landmark — the Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Descending the Himalayas (Paro → Siliguri)
Leave the mountains behind and descend into the tea gardens of eastern India.
The Enlightenment (Siliguri → Bodh Gaya)
Visit the sacred Mahabodhi Temple and the Bodhi Tree where Buddha attained enlightenment.
Sacred Ganges (Bodh Gaya → Varanasi)
Witness the magical Ganga Aarti ceremony along the ghats of Varanasi.
The Return (Varanasi → Delhi)
The final convoy drive back to Delhi concludes the Dragon Kingdom Drive.
Who are Madcap Luxe expeditions designed for?
Our journeys are crafted for discerning travellers who seek the thrill of self-drive road trips, the spirit of adventure, and the indulgence of rare indulgences. From iconic motorsport moments to untouched frontiers, every expedition is designed for those who collect stories few will ever live
Do I need to drive, or can I participate without driving?
Self-drive is the core experience, but chauffeur-driven options are available on request (at an additional cost) for participants who prefer to indulge without being behind the wheel.
Can I travel with my family?
Yes, you can. Seats can be booked for each family member, and in case you’d like to use one car for more than two participants, a dedicated vehicle can be arranged for up to four members. This also comes with a preferential price benefit. For comfort and experience, we limit it to a maximum of four per car.
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Vehicle
Participants to bring their own car or motorcycle or rent a vehicle through Madcap Luxe or your own partner
Driving Days
11 Driving Days
Group Size
Limited participant circle
(Approx. 9–10 cars maximum)
Duration
14 Days | 13 Nights
Trip Type
Curated Self-Drive Expedition
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