Bhutan, a small landlocked country high in the Himalayas, is one of the world's lesser-known tourist locations.In this magical place , an intact Buddhist culture is integrated into every aspect of daily life. And spectacular mountain scenery provides a backdrop to pristine forests and picturesque valleys which suits its distinct style for Photography Tourism. You can enjoy a Bhutan photography tour itinerary with a natural view of nature in the land of mountains and rivers.
The country, dedicated to environmental tourism, actually limits the number of people who visit at any given time by making entry into the country extremely difficult and requiring all visitors to be on a per-arranged tour through one of the hundreds of approved accredited travel agencies like Bhutan Best Inbound Tour. Learn more about Bhutan Travel here.
Bhutan's primary tourist attractions for Bhutan Photography Tour would be in western and central regions, primarily in and around Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang. However if you want to capture the rural way of life you can always include the Eastern Bhutan Tour.
The historical Buddhist temples, breathtaking Himalayan treks, shining cultural and natural Gem makes Bhutan a photographer's paradise. Here is the list of places that you can include in your Bhutan Photography Tour Itinerary :
Thimphu, the kingdom's capital and largest city, is located in the western section of central Bhutan, in one of the country's most beautiful valleys.
It was given capital status in 1961, took over from Punakha, the kingdom's erstwhile ancient capital and the home of Bhutan's religious leaders before the monarchy was crowned.
On the banks of the Wang Chhu River, the city is a sprawling metropolis.
While the city lacks a vibrant nightlife for young people , there are many places to visit in Thimphu and many breathtaking attractions to view and capture in your Bhutan Photography tour. To mention some:
- i) Tashichho Dzong, a historic castle monastery on the outskirts of town that was previously the seat of government. It is a masterpiece of Bhutan Architecture.
- ii) Buddha Dordenma: The Largest statue of Buddha overlooking the Thimphu valley is an awesome place for photographic treat.
iii)Tango Monastery- scenic views and great opportunities for great photography
iv)Zilukha Nunnery- soul stirring chanting of a group of nuns is something that you can take back home
v)Centenary Farmers Market- Here you can take candid shots of villagers from the valley
2) Dochula pass, greeted with colorful prayer flags and snow capped mountains towering afar. It is an amazing place to capture the grand view of Eastern Himalayas. It is about half an hour drive from the main city of Thimphu. Best time for the photography would be early in the morning
2. Paro
This beautiful valley encapsulates a rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends. It is home to many of Bhutan's oldest temples and monasteries.Paro valley has so many things to offer to the photographers.
Some of the popular photography sites in Paro includes
i).Tiger Nest Hike
The Tiger Nest Hike is one of Bhutan's most popular hiking paths since it leads to the Tiger Nest Monastery, one of the world's most unusual and picturesque locations.
At the cliff 900 meters above sea level, you can find the monastery. This one-of-a-kind construction site is a fascinating and bizarre experience, not to mention the natural beauty of the setting. If you're visiting Bhutan for photography, visit Tiger Nest early in the morning to capture its beauty at the sunrise.
ii). Paro Rinpung Dzong
Paro Rinpung Dzong is a huge monastery and castle in Bhutan that houses the Monastic Body of Governance for the region. Rinpung Dzong is a large monastery and stronghold of the Kagyu school of Buddhism.
In the 17th century, the temple was granted to the Zhabdrung Rinpoche, who dismantled the existing construction and created the dzong that still stands today.
In 1646, it was re-consecrated and designated as the monastic and governmental capital of western Bhutan.
iii)Charming International airport, one of the most picturesque airport in the world
3. Punakha
1)Punakha Dzong: Built strategically at the junction of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. The giant castle-like structure of Punakha Dzong, the confluence , surrounding villages and mountain, the monk in red robe makes it an awesome place to visit in your Bhutan Photography tour.
2) Talo Village : To truly experience the real Bhutan, visit Talo village . Capture the heart and soul of Bhutan by experiencing a village life: taste local food, meet local people and listen to the local folklore.
And most importantly try to add any of the Festival of Bhutan to capture the color and heritage of Bhutan. Check out our Bhutan Festival Tour here
4. Bumthang Valley
Bumthang is the central religious heartland of Bhutan and home to some of the country’s oldest Buddhist monasteries and temples.
The beautiful slopes around the small town are perfect haven for photographers. Some of the top photo shooting places include
- ii) Ura Valley
iii)Jambay Lhakhang
5. Nomad Village of Merak and Sakten
Merak and Sakteng stands out as a distinct attraction in Bhutan. Unlike anywhere else in the country, these two highland villages separated by a high mountain offer visitors the experience of a unique semi-nomadic lifestyle, culture, and language in the most scenic pastoral lifestyle, culture and language in the most protected areas of Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary in Trashigang Dzongkhag (District). This place is definitely going to be a photographers’ heaven.
Conclusion
The unspoiled and picturesque natural vista of Bhutan is second to none, and experiencing authentic local culture by mingling with the locals makes it all the better. It is a photographer’s paradise- the abundance of colors and textures, the scared Lhakhangs & Dzongs, crimson robed Buddhist monks, the enchanting landscapes, and the rejoicing spirit of the people- it will surely give you a unique and mystical experience of a lifetime.
Enjoy and explore the fascinating Bhutan photography Tour by visiting various places in the cities and small towns of Bhutan. Our team will tailor the Bhutan Photography Tour Itinerary for you as per your area of interest . We can also provide a guide who has experience on photo shooting sites. Contact with Bhutan Inbound team for more information.
