Photography Tour

Embark on a captivating photography tour through the heart of Bhutan, where three of its most iconic destinations — Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha — offer an unparalleled journey into a world where time seems to stand still.

Begin in the vibrant capital city of Thimphu, where tradition meets modernity. Capture the intricate artistry of Tashichho Dzong, a fortress of grandeur and a living testament to Bhutanese architecture. Snap candid street shots in the bustling Centenary Farmers Market, where local vendors display a riot of colors, textures, and Bhutanese life in its most authentic form. Wander around the Buddha Dordenma statue, an opportunity for panoramic cityscapes and ethereal close-ups of this 169-feet tall gilded figure.

Your next stop, Punakha, was the ancient capital of Bhutan and remains a visual feast for photographers. The majesty of Punakha Dzong, nestled between two rivers, presents a challenge in framing and composition, with its grand structure mirrored beautifully on the water's surface. The Pho Chhu suspension bridge, adorned with fluttering prayer flags, offers an evocative scene of serene beauty, a silent narrative of countless footsteps and whispered prayers.

Your tour concludes in the enchanting valley of Paro. As your lens focuses on the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched precariously on a rugged cliff, the play of light and shadow against the dramatic landscape creates a once-in-a-lifetime shot. Paro's Rinpung Dzong is an architectural marvel, its red and gold roofs providing stark contrast against the azure sky. Stroll along Paro's charming main street, capturing the charm of traditional shop houses and the rhythm of local life.

In the magical realm of Bhutan, every glance reveals an untouched vista, every corner whispers an ancient tale, and every moment holds a spectacle frozen in time. Our photography tour through Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro offers a window into this world, beckoning you to capture the spirit of Bhutan, frame by remarkable frame.

• Extraordinary Subjects: Capture Bhutan's stunning landscapes, ancient temples, colorful festivals, and compelling portraits

• Special Access: Photograph in locations and during ceremonies not available to regular tourists

• Optimal Timing: Shoot during the best light with schedule flexibility for photography

• Expert Instruction: Develop technical skills and creative vision with experienced photography guide

• Cultural Insight: Learn the cultural context that gives your images deeper meaning

• Small Group Size: Maximum 8 participants ensures personalized attention

• All Levels Welcome: Tailored guidance for photographers from beginner to advanced

• All photographic access permits and special site permissions

• Local fixer with photography expertise and cultural connections

• Transportation configured for professional equipment

• Accommodations selected for location and early/late access

• All meals with flexibility for optimal shooting schedules

• Post-expedition online gallery sharing platform

Day 1: Arrival & Initial Compositions

• Arrival at Paro International Airport

• Transfer to Thimphu (1.5-hour drive)

• Equipment setup and expedition briefing

• Golden hour shoot at National Memorial Chorten

• Welcome dinner with expedition overview

• Blue hour cityscape opportunities (optional)

Day 2: Sacred Architecture & Cultural Documentation

• Pre-dawn position at Buddha Dordenma

• Architectural study at Tashichho Dzong

• Traditional arts documentation at Institute for Zorig Chusum

• Street photography in local markets

• Dusk shoot from elevated city viewpoint

• Evening critique session and workflow optimization

Day 3: Alpine Transitions & Monastic Elements

• Departure for Punakha with multiple shooting positions

• Dochula Pass (10,200 ft) compositional study

• Dramatic lighting workshop at 108 stupas

• Arrival in Punakha Valley for sunset positioning

• Evening session on sacred site documentation approaches

Day 4: Human Element & Rural Narratives

• First light at suspension bridge (mist conditions expected)

• Village documentary series with local access arrangements

• Agricultural landscape compositions

• Private access to Chimi Lhakhang for interior lighting techniques

• River valley golden hour positioning

• Night sky workshop with monastery foreground elements

Day 5: Remote Access & Cultural Immersion

• Full-day expedition to isolated settlement (special permissions arranged)

• Documentary series development with sustained subject engagement

• Cultural ceremony documentation (arranged exclusively for group)

• Advanced portraiture techniques in authentic environments

• Evening critique focusing on narrative development and sequencing

Day 6: Landscapes & Ecological Documentation

• Himalayan dawn light expedition

• Telephoto compression techniques for mountain formations

• Macro workshop featuring endemic flora species

• Open shooting time in prime locations

• Technical session: creating exhibition-worthy landscape portfolios

Day 7: Tiger's Nest Monastery Expedition

• Pre-dawn departure for strategic light positioning

• Exclusive access to restricted photography zones (special permit)

• Advanced techniques for challenging exposure conditions

• Compositional opportunities unavailable to standard visitors

• Final afternoon for image selection and post-processing refinement

• Evening celebration with curated slideshow of expedition highlights

Day 8: Final Frames & Departure

• Optional sunrise shoot at Paro Dzong

• Traditional blessing ceremony

• Departure preparation and equipment packing

• Transfer to Paro International Airport

Note to Participants: This expedition is designed for experienced photographers familiar with their equipment. We prioritize optimal light conditions, exclusive access, and technical refinement rather than basic instruction. Each location has been selected for its unique visual potential and arranged with maximum creative freedom in mind.

Choose from Comfort Accommodations at no additional cost or Luxury Accommodations with an added supplemental cost per night.

After booking, we will send an email requesting a copy of your passport page. Processing takes just a few days.

There are only two airlines, DrukAir and Bhutan Airlines, which fly into Bhutan and only from specific connecting airports (Bangkok, Singapore, New Delhi, Dubai, Kathmandu, Kolkata and a few others). If you would like us to arrange your flight into Bhutan from these connection points, please email us. It is your responsibility, however, to book your flight to one of the connecting airports. From there we handle the rest.