Bhutan Photography Tour
Embark on a 13-day visual journey through Drukyul (Land of the Thunder Dragon), capturing Bhutan’s soul through your lens. From misty mountain passes and ancient monasteries to vibrant festivals and everyday life in remote villages, this tour is designed for photographers who seek more than just landscapes—they seek stories, colors, emotions, and timeless frames. Traveling from the west to the southeast, you'll witness Bhutan’s rich diversity in light, people, and perspective.
Duration: 13 Days / 12 Nights
Entry: Paro, Western Bhutan
Exit: Samdrup Jongkhar → Guwahati, Assam (India)
Best Seasons: March–May (spring bloom) & September–November (clear skies, festivals)
Theme: Photography • Culture • Landscape • Festivals • People • Spirituality
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Light & Culture
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Scenic landing in Paro – perfect for aerial shots
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Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, wooden bridge & riverside views
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Golden hour shoot near Kyichu Lhakhang
Overnight in Paro
Day 2: Paro – Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike
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Early hike to Taktshang (Tiger’s Nest) – iconic cliffside monastery
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Capture panoramic shots and temple architecture
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Optional hot stone bath in the evening
Overnight in Paro
Day 3: Paro – Drive to Thimphu via Tachogang Bridge
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Shoot traditional iron bridge and surrounding cliffs
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Explore Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, and city street life
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Night photography: Thimphu lights and dzong
Overnight in Thimphu
Day 4: Thimphu – Faces & Festivals
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Visit local markets, Folk Heritage Museum, weaving centers
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Portraits of monks, artisans, and vendors
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Festival/ritual shoot (if seasonal event coincides)
Overnight in Thimphu
Day 5: Thimphu – Dochula Pass – Punakha
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Sunrise at Dochula Pass: 108 chortens + Himalayas
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Descend into lush Punakha Valley
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Sunset shoot at Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s most photogenic fortress
Overnight in Punakha
Day 6: Punakha Exploration
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Capture early morning light at Dzong and suspension bridge
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Village walk and candid shots with locals
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Visit Chimi Lhakhang – Temple of Fertility
Overnight in Punakha
Day 7: Punakha – Wangdue – Trongsa
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Cross Pele La Pass: Rhododendron forest (spring bloom)
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Stop at yak herders' camps
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Shoot Trongsa Dzong at twilight
Overnight in Trongsa
Day 8: Trongsa – Bumthang (Spiritual Core)
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Early drive to Bumthang Valley via Yutong La Pass
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Explore Jakar Dzong, Kurje Lhakhang, village homes
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Document farm life and spiritual spaces
Overnight in Bumthang
Day 9: Bumthang – Ura Valley Excursion
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Scenic drive to Ura Valley for traditional highland village scenes
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Portraits of elders, women weaving, and panoramic shots
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Visit Ogyen Choling Museum (optional)
Overnight in Bumthang
Day 10: Bumthang – Sengor – Mongar
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Drive through Thrumshingla National Park – moss forests, mist, birdlife
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Shoot waterfalls, forest canopies, and changing vegetation zones
Overnight in Mongar
Day 11: Mongar – Trashigang (Eastern Light)
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Visit Mongar Dzong, market scenes
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Head east to Trashigang, Bhutan’s eastern gem
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Street, monastery, and daily life photography
Overnight in Trashigang
Day 12: Trashigang – Samdrup Jongkhar
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Rural landscapes and remote village documentation
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Travel down to Samdrup Jongkhar – subtropical shift
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Farewell dinner & reflection
Overnight in Samdrup Jongkhar
Day 13: Exit to Guwahati, Assam (India)
Tour Inclusions
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Bhutan visa and government fees
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Licensed English-speaking guide (photography-trained on request)
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Private transportation with professional driver
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All accommodations (3-star or boutique lodges)
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All meals (B/L/D)
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Monument & monastery entry fees
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Bottled water during travel
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Domestic permits for eastward travel
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Photo-shoot permissions at religious sites (where allowed)