Camping
With its lush wilderness and pristine waters, Bhutan makes a perfect camping d
estination. You can truly appreciate the country’s spectacular sights when you spend a night (or more) camping.
Nature-lovers can get away from the city and spend time relaxing in the serenity of the outdoors. During their camping trip, visitors can enjoy a hearty meal beneath the stars and experience the authentic essence of Bhutan.
For the ultimate outdoor vacation, you can select luxurious villa tents in pine forests or traditional camping high in the mountains. In addition to camping, you can go hiking, trekking, birdwatching, rafting and indulge in a variety of other outdoor activities.
Cycling
From crossing suspension bridges and speeding along winding mountain trails to spotting isolated temples perched on ridges – cycling and biking in Bhutan is an experience like no other.
With the natural landscape of the country affording both smooth rides and off-road challenges, it is no surprise that this adventure sport is becoming one of the most popular activities in Bhutan.
Thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies can tailor the cycling tour to their needs but whatever you choose, the journey across mountain passes and through rural villages will be one you won’t soon forget. There are specialised tour operators in Bhutan who can help plan every step of your cycling adventure.
Marathons and international events
Bhutan is known for both its mountainous terrain and carbon negative status. Athletic events organized in the country challenge both local and international participants and push even the most seasoned athletes to their limits.
The most well-known of these events is the Snowman Race, which happens once every few years. Calling for climate action, this grueling ultra-marathon covers more than 222 km in the mountains and has been completed by only the most elite runners.
The annual Bhutan International Marathon is conducted to provide international competitors with a unique race experience and also to encourage running as a sport among the country’s youth.
The Laya Run is part of the famous Royal Highlander Festival. This high-altitude 53 km takes runners along the Mochhu river and up into the mountains of Gasa Dzongkhag.
Helicopter Tours
Imagine seeing Bhutan from a birds-eye view. The traditional houses, winding rivers and terraced paddy fields laid out before you 
as if it were a map in a guidebook. You can now see this with your own eyes with helicopter tours.
The Royal Bhutan Helicopter Service, operated by Druk Air, provides tours for those who don’t have the time for trekking and hiking or just want to experience Bhutan from the skies.
Besides facilitating emergency air-lifts and evacuations, these helicopters have become a popular activity for tourists. Sit back and enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains and sites like Taktsang Monastery and Drugyel Dzong.
Hiking
Hiking in Bhutan is one of the most popular activities to do in Bhutan. The clean air, abundant forests and protected wildlife all contribute to the country’s reputation as a premier destination for nature lovers.
If long overnight treks are not your thing, short and scenic hikes will give you a taste of the Bhutanese outdoors. With a myriad of options all over the country, these gentler hiking trails can all be completed within a day.
The easy to moderate level hiking trails can be walked or cycled and afford great views of the surroundings, glimpses of flora and fauna and sometimes lead to renowned pilgrimage sites.
Unlike the trekking trails available in the country, these hiking trails are not as difficult. These short hiking trails such as the Changangkha to Buddha point hiking trail are fairly easy with not much of a steep climb. This route includes a scenic view of the Thimphu valley below.
The Trans Bhutan Trail has also recently been restored. For hundreds of years, it was used by pilgrims, messengers, armies and traders. Until the 1960s, it was the only way to travel and communicate with others across the country. Now, it has found a new life for an age of adventure and connection.