Next Photo Tour of Bhutan dates: April 28th – May 12th, 2020
Unlock the mystery in one of the world's most undiscovered countries. High in the Himalayan mountains, nestled between India and China, lies the land of the Thunder Dragon. In Bhutan happiness awaits.
This is Bhutan. And it’s spectacular.
Join us on our 15-day photography tour of one of the world’s least visited countries. You’ll be awestruck by the variety of photo opportunities this mysterious land presents.
Our journey across Bhutan will begin in the country's capital Thimphu, before making our way east through some of the most inspiring scenery you are likely to ever see. Along the way expect snow-capped mountains, the biggest sitting Buddha statue in the world, and rice fields that go on for days.
Bhutan Photo Tour – 15 Days
- Where: Bhutan
- When: tentative April 28 – May 11, 2020
- Length: 15 Days (14 nights)
- Who: 14 photography enthusiasts PLUS one or two photography tour leaders!
- What: A 15-day photo tour of Bhutan, catering to photographing in the best locations at the best time of day for light. You will travel and learn in an informal small group setting, with a flexible schedule (including free time to explore).
- Why: Total photography immersion, in a safe and relaxed environment, with experienced professional photographers, and an expert local guide providing lots of hands-on help and unique photo opportunities and experiences.
- Jump to: Tour itinerary, FAQs
Beginner? Pro photographer?
This tour is designed for all levels of photographers to get the most out of every experience at every site on our journey. Our small tour group allows personal access to your tour leaders, professional photographers Kav Dadfar and Darlene Hildebrandt. NOTE: With a small group of 7-9 guests Kav will be the sole tour leader, with 10-14 guests both Darlene and Kav will be the leaders.
Comfort and safety go hand-in-hand with fun and adventure as we travel and photograph this spectacular country.
Are non-photographers welcome?
Absolutely.
This tour is also perfect to bring non-photographers along as well. Although it is customized for photographers there is still a lot to be enjoyed, even without a camera in hand.
Join us on our 15-day photography tour of Bhutan.
DPM tours are the gold standard as far as I’m concerned
I just came back from a 14-day tour put on by another photographer. Now that I have something to compare to, it made me realize just how good you guys are.
Darlene, your tours are the gold standard as far as I’m concerned.
How much is this photo tour of Bhutan?
This tour is designed to offer you both adventure and comfort.
We stay in comfortable and clean rooms in properties with local character and style when possible.
NOTE: We also include the flight from Thailand to Bhutan and return, as well as 2 nights hotels in Bangkok at the beginning and end of the tour. We also handle the Bhutan visa for you and that is also included in the price. Please take those factors into account if you're comparing to other photography tours of Bhutan.
We also take care of little incidentals like water daily, entrance fees for all attractions, and snacks on the transport for a smooth easy experience.
| Group Size | Price |
|---|---|
| 7 – 14 People Nice group size with a maximum of 14 people |
$6995 USD |
Maximum group size: 14
Remaining Spots: 13
NOTE: We also include the flight from Bangkok to Bhutan and return, as well as 2 nights hotel in Bangkok.
This is different from many other Bhutan photo tours which include 15-20 travelers, have fewer days and don't include the extra flight or nights hotel. Please consider these factors when researching and comparing tours. Many of our competitors offer tours for 8 days at the same price – so make sure you compare carefully and look at what is included!
Single Supplement Price:
- Prices quoted are for double occupancy. NOTE: You will be paired with someone of the same gender if you do not have a travel partner and request a roommate – if one is not available you will be charged the single supplement.
- Price for a single room is an additional $995 USD
Do you love to travel?
Are you are as obsessed with travel and photography as we are?
Then you need to join us in picture-perfect Bhutan and venture on to a path where few will ever tread for a photo tour you will not want to miss. Not only will you improve your photography, through daily practice and the support of our expert tour leaders, but you can rest assured you will travel to some of the best locations Bhutan has to offer photographers.
Darlene is an excellent tour leader.
The tour guide that we had was also excellent.
The tour visited interesting places and was well paced. The numerous social occasions to eat together and enjoy the local culture was an excellent way for group members to bond and to also appreciate the Cuban people.
Darlene is an excellent photo instructor who is very knowledgeable and has a talent for helping students at all levels to learn.
The Best Light
This photography tour to Bhutan has been put together by our expert team of tour leaders and local guides to ensure each day we are always photographing in the best light possible.
Over the 15 days, you will learn all about lighting, and how to overcome any challenging lighting situations you may face.
Expect Buddhist temples at sunrise, picturesque snow-capped mountains at sunset, and everything in between.
The Best Locations
The beauty of Bhutan is that fewer tourists visit here in a year than visit Disney World in a single day.
Tourism there just isn’t a thing.
So although the country does boast several well-known sites, most of the places you will be visiting in Bhutan are off the beaten path, because, well, there isn’t a path yet!
This is a photo tour custom designed by a photographer, for photography enthusiasts. So expect to go in where others might normally go around.
Less Rushed
Hate feeling rushed on big group tours? Us too.
That’s why we are keeping the group size on this tour to a maximum of 14, so you will never feel rushed.
We make sure you have the time you need to get the best photographs possible. This also means that anytime you feel like taking a break or skipping a location, that’s fine with us.
We are here to support your photographic passion and your needs, and if that means taking a break, you got it!
Picture Yourself in Bhutan
From capturing the mist rising over the valleys at sunrise to the towering dzongs at sunset, Bhutan is like nothing you have ever experienced before. Bhutan is full of tradition and surprises just waiting for you to discover.
On our 15-day photography tour, you will experience the incredible peace and happiness ingrained in the country’s culture.
Be amazed at the Big Buddha, marvel at the famous Tiger’s Nest, and most importantly take a breath of the freshest air in the world. Smile, you’re in Bhutan.
Let us take you on a Bhutanese road trip you will never forget!
One-on-One Access to Tour Leaders
Beginner? Pro photographer? This tour is designed for all skill levels.
By keeping our tour groups small you will have more personal one-to-one access to your tour leader. This means you can improve your images no matter where you are on your photography journey. With 7-9 guests, there will be one photography leader, and with 10-14 guests you will have two photography leaders.
We have specially-designed our tour as a small group experience. You’ll have plenty of room to find just the right light and direct as many questions as you need to towards your experienced tour leader(s).
We will only be accepting a maximum of 14 guests on this photo tour.
Photography Immersion
If you like photo vacations with an emphasis on improving your camera skills, then this tour to Bhutan is for you.
Over the course of the tour, we will offer you help and guidance in any areas where you may be struggling as well as help you develop skills in new areas.
Soak Up Some Happiness in Bhutan
We’ll arrive into Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital via Bangkok together and from there begin our journey across one of the most culturally rich countries in the world.
Known for its high mountains, and low-deep valleys, Bhutan is the smallest of all Asian countries. Nestled between two economic giants, China and India, Bhutan, has always chosen to go its own way.
Never was that more evident, than when the county decided that Gross National Happiness was to be the most important mark to measure success. And it worked.
The Bhutanese people are some of the happiest and most peaceful people in the world, and thanks to its environmental policies they also breathe the freshest air on the planet.
So maybe it’s the mountain air, maybe it’s the Buddhist values that run deep into the core of Bhutanese life, or maybe it’s all of the festivals Bhutan is so famous for?
Whatever it is, in Bhutan happiness is contagious.
The Tiger's Nest
When most people think of Bhutan, the first image that comes to mind is of Taktshang clinging to the side of a mountain.
This magnificent 325-year-old monastery sits 900 meters above the Paro valley and is one of the most sacred religious sites. It’s also a pretty impressive architectural accomplishment.
Most commonly known as The Tiger’s Temple thanks to the legend of Guru Padmasambhava.
As the story goes, Guru Padmasambhava meditated for many years inside a cave (which now lies at the center of the temple) before flying out of the cave one day riding a tigress.
We won’t be riding any tigers, but for those who may struggle with the tough hike up, there is an option of riding a horse.
Bhudas, Temples, and Monks
You’ll be amazed by the photo opportunities Bhutan presents. Dzongs are high in the Himalayan mountain range, where you will find courtyards dotted with monks and locals going about their day in traditional dress.
Bhutan is a country where magic and myths are as important as anything you will find in a history book. Where Buddhism is not a religion; it’s a way of life.
As the early morning mist fills the valley we will be there ready and waiting to capture the beauty of Bhutan.
Although photography in temples is strictly forbidden, a highlight of the photo tour to Bhutan is a late afternoon visit to a temple. As the lights go out, and the candles softly light the prayer hall, we’ll be allowed to photograph the monks praying. This is an incredibly unique experience and will be a private shoot with no other tour groups or guests invited. It’s just for you!
We saw and did so much more than if i was there on my own.
The tour exceeded my expectations.
We saw and did so much more than if i was there on my own. I feel that I got a better value as a photographer going on this tour than if I was on a regular non-photography tour.
I would recommend this tour because you get a lot of value for your money and time.
This is a tentative schedule, may not be exactly as shown here:
Day 1 Arrive in Bangkok
After you arrive in Bangkok you will be transferred to our hotel near the airport.
In the evening we will have a meet and greet where you can meet your fellow guests and your tutors.
Day 2 Bangkok > Paro > Thimphu (B, L, D)
We have an early morning flight to Paro international airport.
On a clear day, you will be captivated by the amazing scenery of mighty mountains all around. We will be met at the airport by our local guide and will begin the short drive to the capital city of Thimphu. There will be stops along the way for taking photos of the imposing mountains, dzongs and rice fields.
This afternoon we visit a temple which houses prayer wheels where we will capture some wonderful photos of the locals as they spin the wheels.
Our day ends with a sumptuous welcome dinner.
Day 3 Thimphu > Punakha
We start our day with an early morning drive up to a lookout point that gives an amazing view of the city and mountains in the background. Then it’s a short drive to the Big Buddha that overlooks the city which is reportedly the biggest sitting statue of Buddha in the world.
After our early morning shoot, we drive to the riverside town of Punakha via Duchula Pass. We’ll stop for lunch at the pass and to take some photos.
The pass is at over 3000 meters above sea level. Needless to say, the view of the Himalayan mountain range is simply breath-taking.
Once we arrive in Punakha we will head to the majestic Punakha Dzong to explore this majestic fortress. Our shoot for the day ends with a blue hour shoot of the Dzong across the river.
Day 4 Punakha (B, L, D)
Today we spend the day exploring the rest of Punakha including a nunnery, the temple of the Divine Madman and a walk through the rice paddies.
Our afternoon photo spot will be at a lookout point taking in the views of the valley and it’s numerous rice fields.
Day 5 Punakha > Gangtey (B, L, D)
After breakfast, we’ll begin our drive to Gantey. A beautiful valley and in the winter months the home to the critically endangered black neck cranes birds.
The drive to Gangtey is spectacular and on the route, we’ll stop at a forest and also a monastery. You’ll be sure to see monks standing around and roaming in its courtyard which makes for perfect photo opportunities.
After a short drive down to the valley, we will enjoy some local tea and snacks at a farmhouse.
We will then head up to a viewpoint to capture some sunset shots of the valley.
Day 6 Gangtey (B, L, D)
It’s an early morning start as we drive to a beautiful spot to hopefully capture the early morning mist that sometimes fills the valley. Then it’s back to the hotel for a leisurely breakfast before we visit a local school where we’ll be able to photograph the local kids playing during their lunchtime break.
Our late afternoon shoot involves some young local monks who will be our models.
Our location offers fantastic views of the valley, not to mention prayer flags and even a simple but beautiful stupa. The combination of the landscape and the monks make for fantastic photo opportunities.
Day 7 Gangtey > Trongsa (B, L, D)
We have another opportunity to capture the mist in the valley in an early morning shoot. Then after breakfast, we make the long drive to Trongsa.
On route, we’ll stop and photograph the awe-inspiring Trongsa Dzong – arguably the most impressive in Bhutan.
Then after spending a few hours exploring the many different courtyards which are often dotted with monks and locals, we head to our hotel in Trongsa for the night.
Day 8 Trongsa > Bumthang (B, L, D)
Our day involves a leisurely drive to Bumthang stopping to admire some of the most awe-inspiring views you will ever see along the way.
Bumthang is an important region in Bhutan. This is the very place where Buddhism was born in Bhutan.
From here it grew and spread across what is now modern-day Bhutan.
Upon arrival in Bumthang, there will be some free time to walk around the local town before we have dinner together.
Day 9 Bumthang (B, L, D)
Today involves visiting no fewer than four important temples and a nunnery. Each one offers a different glimpse into this region and naturally different photography shooting opportunities.
Then after a couple of hours to relax in the afternoon we drive up high into the mountains to visit a local temple during evening prayer. As the lights go out and the candles light the prayer hall, we’ll be allowed to photograph the monks praying.
This is an incredibly unique experience as photography is strictly forbidden in temples in Bhutan!
This will be a private shoot with no other tour groups or guests.
Day 10 Bumthang (B, L, D)
Today we attend a local festival in Bumthang.
Festivals in Bhutan are a spectacle of color, music, and dance.
You’ll need plenty of memory cards as the photo opportunities are endless!
Day 11 Bumthang > Punakha (B, L, D)
We have an optional sunrise shoot planned for this morning where we drive to our lookout point to photograph the Dzong that overlooks the city.
We’ll be hoping for mist in the valley which gives a wonderful serene look. After our shoot and breakfast, we make the long drive back to Punakha stopping on route for lunch and photos.
After our long drive, we’ll enjoy a barbecue dinner around the fire at our hotel.
Day 12 Punakha > Paro (B, L, D)
It’s a relaxed start to the day before we drive to Paro.
This afternoon we’ll have the opportunity to photograph a group of male and female masked dancers who will dance and model for us in an authentic local setting of a farmhouse.
After our shoot, we’ll be given a demonstration of traditional Bhutanese dishes and will enjoy dinner in a local farmhouse.
Day 13 Paro (B, L, D)
This is our final day in Bhutan and it’s finally time to tick off that bucket list item.
Today is all about the famous Tiger’s Nest monastery that sits high on the side of a mountain.
We’ll make the tough hike up (or ride up on horseback) to halfway where there is a wonderful café with great views of the monastery. For those with the energy to go on, there is a further climb up to capture those postcard shots of the monastery. We’ll then enjoy a delicious catered meal before starting our journey back down.
For those who are not tired, there is an optional blue hour shoot of Paro Dzong in the evening from the riverside or alternatively some free time to indulge in some shopping in Paro town.
This evening we will have our farewell dinner together.
Day 14 Paro > Bangkok (B)
After breakfast, we will be transferred to the airport where we will fly back to Bangkok. We will then be transferred to our hotel near the airport where we will say our goodbyes.
Day 15 End of tour (B)
For those who are still at the hotel, there is the option to have breakfast before starting your onward journey home or on a continuation of your adventure elsewhere.
Immersing yourself on a photo tour of Bhutan will allow you to dedicate and focus your time on creating your best images. On this tour, we will offer you a supportive environment to maximize your experience and enjoyment. You will be offered individual help, have time to ask questions and get your images reviewed privately (time permitting).
It’s Time for Bhutan
When you return home from Bhutan and begin to go through your images, you’ll recall stories from the trip and be amazed at all you learned and experienced. You’ll come back with cutting-edge photo tips and tricks, new friends, incredible memories, and, of course, hundreds of breathtaking photos!
Mysterious. Spiritual. Authentic. Enchanting. Simply spectacular.
Get out your passport. It’s time for Bhutan.
Traveling with Darlene and DPM Tours is a series of unexpected, unusual and unique experiences to be savoured and enjoyed.
Easy way to open ones eyes and heart to different worlds and cultures.
Cuba is a perfect place to experience this with its warm and welcoming people, music and history.
Your Photo Tour Leader(s):
Kav Dadfar
One of your tour leaders for this Bhutan photo tour is Kav Dadfar, a full-time photographer and writer based on the outskirts of London. Kav recently headed to Bhutan on assignment traveling across this incredible country. His experiences there helped him design this tour just for you.
His images have been published in many magazines and as a regular writer for various photography websites, Kav has written over 200 articles on photography.
Darlene Hildebrandt
Your second tour leader for this photo tour of Bhutan is Darlene. She is the creator of Digital Photo Mentor, a photography teacher, tour leader, traveler, and a cat owner.
She has over 30 years of experience as a professional photographer, has been teaching since 2011 and has led over 10 photo tours and 20 photography workshops.
Darlene is a Fuji user but speaks almost all other photography languages. Whatever your skill level and experience, she can help you unlock the next level and take better photos.
Cost of Photo Tour of Bhutan
We have lowered the maximum number of participants on this tour to 14. This is less than many other Bhutan tours which include 15 – 20 people – please look at that when researching and comparing tours. Keeping the group sizes small allows for a smaller, more intimate group in order to give you the best experience.
This means you will have more time with the tour leader, and a really nice group size.
Join the waiting list above to get notified early and grab a spot.
The minimum number of people required to run the tour is seven.
| Group Size | Price |
|---|---|
| 7 – 14 People Nice group size with a maximum of 14 people |
$6995 USD |
Maximum group size: 14
Remaining Spots: 13
Single Supplement Price:
- Prices quoted are for double occupancy. NOTE: You will be paired with someone of the same gender if you do not have a travel partner and request a roommate – if one is not available you will be charged the single supplement.
- Price for a single room is an additional $995 USD
Join the waiting list above to get notified early and grab a spot.
The price of the tour includes:
- 14 nights accommodations.
- Flights Bangkok > Paro, Bhutan > Bangkok
- Meals – 14 breakfasts, 12 lunches, and 12 dinners (includes non-alcoholic beverages and tips).
- Local English-speaking guide.
- Air-conditioned transportation – included driver, fuel, and insurance.
- Entrance fees for any attractions the group visits.
- Organized photo shoots.
- Photography lessons in the field and image reviews one-on-one (as time permits).
- Photography tutoring and help as needed, you just have to ask.
The price DOES NOT include:
- Your flight or other travel to Bangkok, Thailand.
- Tips for your guide, driver, and tour leaders.
- Lunches and dinners where indicated.
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Personal spending (souvenirs, spa treatments, etc.)
- Optional activities like archery, Buddhist monk training, textiles, hot stone bath, horse rides, etc.
Flights to Bangkok and hutan: We travel to Bhutan through Suvarnabhumi Airport, also known as the Bangkok airport in Bangkok, Thailand. Transportation will be provided to meet you and take you to our hotel. We fly from Bangkok to Bhutan the next day, a flight which is included in the tour price. So you need to arrive in Bangkok before 3 pm on April 28th, 2020.
Flights home from Bhutan: Your flight from Bhutan back to Bangkok will be the day before the tour ends. After a night in Bangkok, you will depart from Bangkok airport, so make your travel arrangements accordingly. The last day of the main tour is May 12th, 2020.
I felt very at ease and safe.
I expected a beautiful India, but realized that the people impressed me most by the kindness, happyness and willingness to interact. And because my shyness of asking permission to click was gone.
What touched me most was the people, the colors, the smiles. I felt very at ease and safe.
I enjoyed very very much the photo shoot in the marigold fields. Learning new techniques was valuable.
... and I cried the day I left.
FAQs
Where does the tour start?
This Bhutan tour starts in Bangkok, Thailand from where we will fly to Paro international airport together. So, when booking your flight, you will need to fly to Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok
Do I have to book my flight to Bhutan from Bangkok?
No! Unlike other tour companies, we take care of that for you and the cost (approximately $1000) is included in the tour price.
Can I upgrade my flight from Bangkok to Paro to Business Class?
Yes, there may be some limited business class seats available at an additional cost (subject to availability). Please contact us for more information.
Do I need a visa for Bhutan?
Most people will require a visa to visit Bhutan. At the time of writing, Indian citizens are exempt.
The cost of the visa is included in our tour price and all applications are handled by our tour rep in Bhutan. It only takes a few days to get a visa and the process is very straightforward. You will be required to fill in a simple form and supply a scan of your passport
What is the physical fitness level needed for this tour?
Although for most locations there will be some walking involved, these will be short and easy. There will be some stairs to climb in Dzongs and temples. But if you are in good health and moderate fitness level and can walk up a flight of stairs you will be fine. This tour is NOT recommended for people with mobility issues. The only tough walk is the hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
How tough is the Tigers Nest walk?
The Tiger’s Nest hike is a tough 2-3 hour (one way) uphill walk. The walk consists of three parts. You can choose to do one, two or all three parts.
The first part is approximately 1 hour uphill to a café which has lovely views of the monastery. The café serves buffet style food and hot and cold beverages.
The second part of the walk is another hour from the café to the location which has the best views of the monastery. It’s from this spot that you will see the usual postcard type shots of the monastery.
From this point, it’s another hour to walk to the monastery itself. It consists of a steep descent via stairs followed by an ascent up a vast number of stairs. There is no photography allowed inside the monastery itself and all cameras and mobile phones will have to be left outside (either with your tour leader or in lockers). Please note that the return journey is on the same route.
Are there any other options for getting up to the Tiger’s Nest?
You can ride up to the café on horseback (or ponies) at an additional charge but no further. As this is a sacred site and the track narrows a little, horses are not allowed any further. Please keep in mind that you cannot ride down on horseback and would have to walk downhill.
What photography skill level do I need to have?
We encourage all skill levels to join us on this tour. It is not about what you know it's about doing photography together, enjoying the adventure, and learning a few things along the way. Whatever your level you can get some tips from the tour leader. We do however recommend you have a basic level of knowledge and experience using your camera (don't go on a tour with a brand new camera you don't know yet). You don't even have to be a photographer, but can come along and appreciate the relaxed pace of this tour.
What sort of food should I expect to eat?
Traditional Bhutanese food is very spicy and pretty much every dish consists of chilies. But all hotels and restaurants that we will be eating at can cater to western tourists. There will usually be an option for non-spicy Bhutanese food as well as simple but traditional western dishes such as pasta. Naturally, these dishes will not be as tasty as you get back home and will be fairly simple flavors (think of it like going to a sushi restaurant and asking for a burger or pizza, they aren't trained or equipped to make such food).
Will there be other options for food?
There WILL NOT be many other options for food. We would suggest informing us well in advance of the trip of any dietary requirements. We also HIGHLY recommend planning and bringing along some nutritional bars or protein powder type meal replacements if you feel like you will not like the food. We may not always be able to provide you with many options and the variety of any western or more plain food will be very limited and repetitive
Is Bhutan safe?
Bhutan is one of the safest countries in Asia. The Bhutanese people are incredibly friendly and welcoming so don’t be surprised if people say hello to you in the street and even start talking to you. Many of the younger generations can speak English very well as it is taught in schools. You will notice that unlike many other countries in Asia, you will not be hassled by hawkers and so on.
What about altitude sickness?
Generally, on the route that we are taking you should not suffer from any altitude sickness. But again, if this is something that you are worried about or suffer from it regularly make sure you have the relevant medication with you and consult your doctor prior to traveling.
What are the roads like?
The best description of the roads in Bhutan is that the only straight one is the runway you land on. Most of the highways in Bhutan are paved and in good condition and high mountain roads. After the winter months of December to February, the government undertakes any repair work needed due to the snow. For the most part, we will be driving on paved highways but there may be some rough terrain which is in the process of being paved again.
What if I don't have a roommate but don't want to pay the extra for a single?
If you request to share a room and we cannot match you with a roommate you will be required to pay the single supplement fee. We do our best to pair everyone up but due to gender mismatches or uneven numbers, we may not always have equal numbers of males or females. But you can certainly ask a friend to come along as well to share with you.
Do you have to be a photographer to go on this tour?
Our tours are custom-designed specifically with photographers in mind, allowing for the best possible photographic opportunities.
However, they are an amazing way for any non-photographers to see a new country as well, just in a slower manner. In general, we cover less ground and do fewer things but we spend more time at each of the most interesting places and go deeper.
All travel enthusiasts are welcome to join our tours, and all the activities (like a photo shoot at sunrise) are optional, so you can sit any of them out if you wish.
Great Value
Staying with the Cuban families in their homes was a big plus and was one of the highlights of my trip. People were all welcoming and very enjoyable.
Having a specific focus like photography was very good.
You were awesome
I really loved the way that you got yourself involved and showed us all how to have fun. As for accommodations, I really loved the them all, far exceeded my expectations.
Traveling with Darlene and DPM Tours is a series of unexpected, unusual and unique experiences to be savoured and enjoyed.
Easy way to open ones eyes and heart to different worlds and cultures.
Cuba is a perfect place to experience this with its warm and welcoming people, music and history.
Our Photo Tours & Workshops
Click here to see all our photo tours of Latin America, Africa, Asia, and South America, and if you'd like more hands-on, photography education, you'll love one of our workshops, held in Western Canada.