A Photography Tour in Bhutan offers a unique opportunity to capture the country’s stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the warmth of its people. Whether you’re photographing grand monasteries and dzongs, vibrant festivals, or the serene Himalayan environment, Bhutan offers endless opportunities for creating memorable and meaningful images. With the guidance of local experts and an appreciation for the country’s cultural nuances, photographers will leave with a portfolio full of captivating and authentic shots of this Himalayan kingdom.
Overview
Bhutan is a photographer’s paradise, with its dramatic landscapes, vibrant festivals, ancient temples, and deeply spiritual culture. The Photography Tour offers a chance to capture the breathtaking beauty of Bhutan through your lens, whether you’re an amateur photographer or a seasoned professional. From towering dzongs and monasteries perched on cliffs to stunning mountain ranges and traditional festivals, this tour is designed to give you the opportunity to photograph the diverse aspects of Bhutanese life and scenery.
- Arrival at Paro International Airport: Capture the stunning view of the Himalayas and Paro valley.
- Drive to Thimphu: Along the way, stop to photograph Bhutan’s beautiful rural landscape, terraced fields, and small villages.
- Explore Thimphu: Visit the Buddha Dordenma statue and Tashichho Dzong for some architectural shots.
- Overnight in Thimphu.
- Photograph the Traditional Crafts: Visit local artisan workshops where you can photograph Bhutanese weavers, thangka painters, and jewelers.
- Photography of Local Life: Walk through Thimphu’s streets and capture daily life, from the bustling markets to the monks going about their rituals.
- Evening Photography of Thimphu Valley: Capture the sunset over Thimphu from a vantage point with sweeping views of the valley.
- Overnight in Thimphu.
Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass: Stop at Dochula Pass for stunning photos of the 108 chortens with the Himalayan peaks as a backdrop.
Visit Punakha Dzong: Capture the beauty of the Punakha Dzong, known for its spectacular location at the confluence of two rivers. The dzong’s ornate architecture and surrounding landscapes provide excellent photo opportunities.
Photographing the Village of Punakha: Wander through the village capturing scenes of local life and the fertile valley of Punakha.
Overnight in Punakha.
- Chimi Lhakhang: Visit this quirky temple dedicated to the Divine Madman. Capture the colorful architecture and the surrounding countryside.
- River Photography: Explore the Po and Mo Chhu rivers, photographing the serene landscapes and activities like rafting.
- Portrait Photography of Locals: Spend time with local villagers, photographing their traditional lifestyle and portraits in a rural setting.
- Overnight in Punakha.
Drive Back to Paro: Capture the changing landscape as you drive back to Paro, with opportunities for shots of terraced rice fields, small Bhutanese villages, and monasteries on hillsides.
Kyichu Lhakhang: Visit one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, capturing its tranquil surroundings and the ancient architecture.
Photography of Paro Market: Stroll through Paro’s market capturing images of the vibrant local culture and the interaction of locals.
Overnight in Paro.
MHike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest): Capture the iconic cliffside monastery from various angles as you hike up. Take shots of the monastery against the backdrop of the dramatic Paro valley and distant mountains.
Portraits of Monks: Once at the monastery, take photos of the monks in their daily routines, immersed in spiritual practice.
Lunch with a View: Photograph the stunning panoramic views of the Paro valley and the monastery from the viewpoint.
Overnight in Paro.
Paro Tshechu (or other local festivals): Capture the vibrant mask dances, traditional costumes, and colorful celebrations of Bhutan’s festivals. The festival is a photographer’s dream, with lively rituals and dramatic settings.
Street Photography: Take candid photos of the festival-goers, focusing on expressions and details such as jewelry and traditional clothing.
Overnight in Paro.
Morning Photography in Paro: Visit the local market for final photo opportunities of Bhutanese life.
Transfer to Paro International Airport: Capture a final shot of the magnificent Himalayas as you depart Bhutan.
The Trip Cost Includes
- Pick-up or Drop-off service from and to Airport(in our own vehicle)
- Transportation to and from!!
- Food all along the trip(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and a cup of coffee or tea) and accommodations during the trip in hotels with family environment
- Transportation, food, accommodation and insurance of Guide during the trip
- Down jacket, all-season sleeping bag, duffel bag and trekking map(in case if you don’t have your own. Down jacket, sleeping bag and duffel bag must be returned after completion of the trip)
- First Aid Medical Kit(Your guide will carry the Medical Kit but we also advise to bring yourself for your own use, as far as possible)
- All the required permits and paperwork
The Trip Cost Excludes
- International Air fare
- Refreshments and bottled drinks and alcohol
- Tips/gratuities
- Cost arising out of Flight Cancellation/road blockades/ landslides and events beyond our control
- Expenses of personal nature and any other expenses not mentioned in the above cost
The best time to visit Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is pleasant, skies are clear, and the valleys are vibrant with flowers or golden autumn hues.
Yes, the hike to Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Lair) is moderate and can be managed by beginners with a reasonable fitness level. The trail includes some steep sections, but there are rest stops along the way. You can also opt for a pony ride for part of the ascent.
We recommend packing:
- Comfortable trekking shoes for the Taktshang hike
- Layered clothing to accommodate varying temperatures
- A rain jacket or umbrella, especially during the monsoon season
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for daytime excursions
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
Yes, all international travelers (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) require a visa to enter Bhutan. Visas are arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator as part of the tour package.
Bhutan is one of the safest travel destinations. The country is known for its low crime rate, friendly locals, and well-organized tourism infrastructure.
Bhutanese cuisine features rice, vegetables, and meats flavored with chili and cheese. Popular dishes include Ema Datshi (chili and cheese stew) and Punakha Paa (spiced pork). Vegetarian options are widely available, and international cuisine is also served in most hotels and restaurants.
