A Photographer’s Dreamscape – 11 Nights & 12 Days

Mystic Bhutan: A Photographer’s Dreamscape offers an immersive journey through Bhutan’s most photogenic landscapes and cultural treasures. Starting with a scenic drive from Paro to Thimphu, participants will capture the grandeur of Buddha Point and the serenity of King’s Memorial Chorten. The itinerary includes visits to Thimphu’s vibrant arts scene, the pristine Phubjikha Valley, and the historic Trongsa Dzong, providing diverse backdrops for capturing Bhutan’s rich heritage and stunning vistas. Highlights include photographing the traditional architecture and scenic valleys of Gangtey and Bumthang, as well as the unique culture of rural villages in Ura or Tang Valley.

The tour continues with a breathtaking hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, offering unparalleled cliffside shots and panoramic views of the Paro Valley. It concludes with an excursion to the scenic Haa Valley and Chelela Pass, where photographers can capture dramatic mountain vistas and colorful prayer flags. With its blend of cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and vibrant local life, Mystic Bhutan: A Photographer’s Dreamscape is designed to provide photographers with a comprehensive and visually captivating exploration of this enchanting Himalayan kingdom.

Day 1: Arrival in Paro and Transfer to Thimphu

Arrive at Paro International Airport and transfer to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, through picturesque landscapes. After checking into your hotel, embark on an afternoon exploration to capture the majestic Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), home to the largest seated Buddha statue in Bhutan, offering panoramic views. Proceed to photograph the serene King’s Memorial Chorten and capture the vibrant scenes at Coronation Park as the day winds down.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu (Altitude 2,320m)

Day 2: Thimphu Photography Exploration

After breakfast, delve into the heart of Thimphu’s cultural and historical sights. Photograph the National Library’s architectural charm and the Institute for Zorig Chusum, known for its traditional arts and crafts. Capture images of the elusive Takin at the Takin Preserve and the intricate architecture of Trashichhoedzong, the fortress of the glorious religion. Spend your evening photographing the lively atmosphere at the Handicrafts Emporium and local crafts bazaar.

Overnight stay at the Hotel in Thimphu (Altitude 2,320m)

Day 3: Thimphu to Phubjikha Valley

Drive from Thimphu to the picturesque Phubjikha Valley, capturing the scenic beauty of Dochula Pass along the way, adorned with chortens and prayer flags. Once in Gangtey, photograph the stunning Gangtey Gompa monastery perched on the hill and the vast, open landscapes of Phobjikha Valley. Visit the Black-necked Crane Information Centre for an opportunity to photograph these magnificent birds and the surrounding wetland scenery.

Overnight stay at the Hotel in Phubjikha (Altitude 3,000m)

Day 4: Phubjikha to Trongsa

Embark on a morning drive to Trongsa, crossing Pele-La-Pass, which offers stunning high-altitude vistas. Photograph the Chendebji Chorten and the iconic Trongsa Dzong, a significant historical fortress. Capture the architectural details of Trongsa Ta Dzong, the watchtower, and the bustling atmosphere of Trongsa town in the evening.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Trongsa (Altitude 2,200m)

Day 5: Trongsa to Bumthang

Drive from Trongsa to Bumthang, traversing the Yutong-La Pass and photographing the dramatic landscapes. Upon reaching Bumthang, explore and capture the essence of local cheese-making at the Bumthang Swiss Cheese factory and the Red Panda Brewery. Enjoy the evening at leisure, capturing the serene ambiance of Bumthang.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Bumthang (Altitude 2,800m)

Day 6: Bumthang Local Sightseeing

Spend the day photographing the architectural and spiritual landmarks of Bumthang. Capture the grandeur of Jakar Dzong, the tranquility of Lamey Goemba, and the intricate details of Jambay Lhakhang and Chakhar Lhakhang. Explore Kurjey Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang, and Membarstho (“The Burning Lake”), and visit a local handloom weaving house to photograph traditional textile crafts.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Bumthang (Altitude 2,800m)

Day 7: Excursion to Tang or Ura Valley

Choose between visiting the Tang Valley or Ura Valley. In Tang Valley, photograph the Pema Tekchok Choeling Shedra and the scenic village of Ogyen. Alternatively, capture the medieval charm of Ura Valley and its traditional architecture. Both excursions offer unique opportunities for landscape and cultural photography.

Overnight stay at Bumthang (Altitude 2,800m)

Day 8: Bumthang to Punakha/Wangdue

Drive back to Punakha, capturing the scenic beauty of the journey. Photograph the Trongsa Dzong and Ta Dzong en route, and the Chendebji Chorten. On arrival in Punakha, capture the architectural marvel of Punakha Dzong and Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge. Enjoy a restful evening at a local homestay.

Overnight stay at a homestay in Punakha (Altitude 1,300m)

Day 9: Punakha to Paro

Drive from Punakha to Paro, capturing the scenic landscapes along the Wang Chhu and Paro Chhu rivers. Visit Ta Dzong and photograph its extensive collection of artifacts, followed by the Rinpung Dzong with its fine wall paintings. Explore Paro’s Main Street market area for vibrant street photography.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro (Altitude 2,280m)

Day 10: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

After breakfast, hike to Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) for stunning cliffside photography and panoramic views of the Paro Valley. After returning, capture the beauty of Drukgyel Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang, and enjoy a leisurely evening exploring local cafes and shops.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro (Altitude 2,280m)

Day 11: Excursion to Haa Valley and Chelela Pass

Drive to Haa Valley via the Chelela Pass, capturing breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and verdant valleys. Photograph the colorful prayer flags and the picturesque villages of Haa Valley. Return to Paro in the late afternoon for an overnight stay.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro (Altitude 2,280m)

Day 12: Departure

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Paro Airport. Capture any last-minute photographs of the landscapes and culture before bidding farewell to Bhutan, carrying home vivid memories of your photographic journey through this enchanting land.

For your accommodation, we have selected Department of Tourism-approved 3-star hotels, ensuring you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay throughout your trip. These hotels offer great services and amenities to enhance your experience in Bhutan.

If you would like to make any changes to the hotel selections or upgrade your stay to a higher category, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is happy to assist you in customizing your accommodations to better suit your preferences.

We are here to ensure that your tour is tailored to your needs and expectations. Looking forward to hearing from you!

Day 1: Thimphu – Overnight stay at Hotel Dharla

Day 2: Thimphu – Overnight stay at Hotel Dharla

Day 3: Phubjikha – Overnight stay at Phubjikha Resorts

Day 4: Trongsa – Overnight stay at Norbu lingka Resorts

Day 5: Bumthang – Over Night Stay at Chumey Nature Resorts

Day 6: Bumthang – Over Night Stay at Chumey Nature Resorts

Day 7: Bumthang – Over Night Stay at Chumey Nature Resorts

Day 8: Punakha – Overnight stay at Hotel Kingaling

Day 9: Paro – Overnight stay at Riverfront Resort

Day 10: Paro – Overnight stay at Riverfront Resort

Day 11: Paro – Overnight stay at Riverfront Resort

All Transportation including airport Transfer
All Accommodation – Twin/Dbl sharing Rooms
All Breakfast & Dinner
Govt. SDF of US$ 100 PPN
One time visa fee of US$ 40
All Sightseeing as per Itinerary
Professional English Speaking Tour Guide
All Visa Formalities
1 Bottle Each Mineral Water daily
1 Tourist Sim-Card
All Internal Taxes
No Hidden Cost

Those Services not mentioned under Inclusions
Laundry, Drinks, Phone Calls, Travel Insurance
Entry Fees to museums and Monuments
Lunch
Photography Permit/charges if anywhere applicable
Professional Photography Tour Guide
Air tickets

Please note that the type of vehicle will be, SUV, Ertiga, Innova, H1 Bus, HiAce Bus, or Coaster Bus—will be arranged based on the number of travelers in group.

N/A

Peak Season: March, April, May, June, September, October, November & December

The cancellation before 30 days will lead to 50% of the total amount cancellation.
The cancellation after 30 days will lead to 100% of the Total amount cancellation.
Since we are inter-dependent with the Hotels so above cancellation charges might vary with few Hotel’s Cancellation charges.

Lean Season: January, February, June, July, August, and December

The Cancellation before 30 days will lead to Zero cancellation of the total amount.
The cancellation after 30 days but before 15 days will lead to 25% cancellation of the total amount.
The cancellation after 15 days to 7 Days will lead to 50% cancellation of the total amount.
The cancellation 7 Days will lead to 100% cancellation of the total amount.
Since we are inter-dependent with the Hotels so above cancellation charges might vary with few Hotel’s Cancellation charges.

Refund Policy:

In case if eligible for any refund occurring due to cancellation or any other reasons, the same will be processed within 7-14 working/ business days in the mode deemed suitable or appropriate at the discretion of both the parties.

Postponement Policy: –

Postponement of the tour will be allowed once and will be Valid for 6 Months.
If the trip is postponed and not cancelled, there will not be any refund under any circumstances irrespective of any reason/cause after postponement of the trip.
This rescheduling is allowed only once, hence choose your new dates wisely and inform us at least 30 Days in advance from your new dates. Further, reschedules may or may not have some additional charges and that will be communicated in real-time. Execution of the rescheduled trip will depend upon the availability of all the inclusions as per the original itinerary. We advise you to discuss well in advance before making any flight or train booking.
The inclusions as per the original itinerary may or may not remain same, all depends upon the availability at the time of rescheduled dates.
The total package cost may or may not change at the time of rescheduled dates. The increase or decrease in the prices will depend upon the current prices of all the inclusions at the time of new booking.
Any force majeure situation, addition/amendment in the package may or may not attract additional charges, the additional charges shall be borne by the traveler.
Payment Schedule will be at AD Tours & Travels discretion and has the right to forfeit the payment for not receiving payment on time.
Change of Destination is not allowed under any circumstances. Still the final decision will be taken on the basis of situation.

Booking policy:

For booking this package, you need to provide verbal consent on the acceptance of the offered package including all the inclusions and exclusions as mentioned in the quote. Such acceptance will be received on the quote as a whole including each and every minute details as a part of it.
On the receipt of the same, the concerned trip advisor in contact with you will raise the invoice specifying the number of installments, installment amount and their due dates as agreed.
On the receipt of the 1st installment, the booking will stand confirmed untill and unless any changes are made thereafter.
The Visa/Permit, hotel and flight bookings will be thereafter initiated and the vouchers for the respective services will be updated for you within 3-4 working/ business days. Though the cab details will be updated 1-2 days piror before the trip.

Payment Policy:

The payment will be received as per the agreed number of installments, amount and due dates.
On non-receipt of the payment of the 1st installment as scheduled until and unless any prior notice, the booking remains unconfirmed. In such cases, no booking procedures will be initiated at our end.
Special Notice has to be put forth in a proper manner in case of any delays in making the payment of any installment so that a next due date can be planned for you.