SNAPSHOTS OF BHUTAN Photograph Western and Central Bhutan in 12 Days

Snapshots of Bhutan: Schedule at a Glance 2.

Day/Date Destination Distance Travel Time

Day 1: Arrival at Paro. Paro – Thimphu

51 km 1.5 hrs

Day 2: Thimphu -- --

Day 3: Thimphu – Punakha/Wangdue 70 km 3 hrs

Day 4: Punakha/Wangdue -- --

Day 5: Punakha/Wangdue – Phobjikha/Gangtey

80 km 3 hrs

Day 6: Phobjikha/Gangtey – Trongsa 85 km 3 hrs

Day 7: Trongsa – Bumthang 65 km 2.5 hrs

Day 8: Bumthang -- --

Day 9: Bumthang – Paro(flight) 309 km 1hr

Day 10: Paro, Tiger’s Nest -- --

Day 11: Paro – Chele La – Haa 70 km 3 hrs Day 12: Departure -- --

“I spent an exciting week on a photographic tour in western Bhutan, and Raven Tours and Treks took our group to many locations near Paro, Thimphu and Punakha - the latter for the Talo Tsechu (festival). Our friendly and helpful driver Jeewan and guide Hem did a superb job looking after our group of avid photographers and taking us safely through winding mountain roads and tracks to our destinations on the comfortable minibus, often at demanding hours like 4am to get to a location in time for a sunrise photo shoot. Hem was a veritable font of knowledge about Bhutan and Bhutanese culture - I learned so much from him. For anybody considering a holiday in Bhutan, I can certainly recommend Raven Tours and Treks.” – AV Bill, Singapore

We just got back from a FANTASTIC Photography Tour in Bhutan with ground support provided by Raven Tours and Treks. Our guide and driver couldn't be more helpful and accommodating and always with a smile. Our bus was comfortable and hotels were fine. On some days we were up for sunrise and shooting till sunset so the hours were long, but there was never any complaint or hesitation from the Raven team. And they responded promptly and with professionalism to our demanding and sometimes-changing schedule and needs. Our guide Hem was very knowledgeable and spoke good English, providing us with just the right level of cultural and historic information. The tour was such a success that I'm already planning the next one - can't wait! – Karen L

Snapshots of Bhutan: Day 1 3.

Day 1: Paro – Thimphu

Arrive at Paro Airport and drive to Thimphu. Begin your photographic odyssey at Tamchog Lhakhang. This temple honours a 14th-century Tibetan engineer Saint Thangtong Gyalpo. He built several bridges in Tibet and Bhutan and the temple sits near one such bridge he built on Paro Chhu. You get your first glimpse of Bhutanese architecture and splendid landscape here. Upon reaching Thimphu, visit Weekend Market. This colourful market is an important weekend stop for people of the valley. Vendors from all over the region start pouring into the capital from Thursday to set up their stalls. The whole place is full of delicious aromas and a wide variety of goods. The handicrafts and incense section are particularly popular among visitors and photographers. Take a stroll around Thimphu Market. To an outsider, Thimphu presents a strange paradox. Photographers flock its streets to capture its eclectic mix of tradition and modernity. Crimson-robed monks, office workers in traditional attires and schoolchildren throng the streets in the afternoon. An ideal time to shoot vibrant street scenes and portraits. Stroll towards Thimphu Clock Tower Square, a major hangout spot at the centre of Thimphu. Tourists and locals congregate here in the evening to enjoy the sunset and share stories with each other. Groups of teenagers, old timers with prayer wheels and women with babies are a common sight at this hour. End your day with a visit to magnificent Tashichhoedzong. This splendid fortress is the centrepiece of the city. It gives a touch of grandeur to pastoral Thimphu Valley and occupies a place of pride in the hearts of the people. Shoot the floodlit palace and inky-blue skies during dusk. Overnight in Thimphu.

“In Bhutan, time is cyclical, not linear. Bhutanese live by the seasons, which go round and round, not forward. They also believe in reincarnations, endless cycles of birth and rebirth. The way we experience time influences so many things. I think for Bhutanese, time is less about quantity than quality. They are masters of living in a moment.” - Linda Leaming, Married to Bhutan

Snapshots of Bhutan: Day 2 4. Day 2: Thimphu

Take a stroll in Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park and shoot mist-covered Thimphu Valley. Afterwards, visit Great Buddha Dordenma. This giant statue of Shakyamuni Buddha is a major draw for the photographers. The spot also commands beautiful views of the valley. Visit the gorgeous temple at the base of the statue. Although photography is not permitted, it is worth spending some time here. Visit glorious Tango Gompa. This hilltop monastery offers spectacular views of Thimphu Valley. Because of low footfall, several photogs prefer this site for landscape photography. A mural of Guru Rinpoche at the trailhead is a particular favourite of shutterbugs. Devotees leave Tsha Tsha(small clay offerings) in cracks of the hillside. These small mounds of clay are another popular subject. Also look for spiritual quotes and colourful prayer flags.You may spot a Goral or a deer on the trail. Afterwards, visit National Institute of Zorig Chusum. This institute imparts training in the 13 traditional crafts of Bhutan. The art demonstration here is very popular among photographers and art lovers. Photograph the students while they are at work. Also, shoot various traditional artefacts like chaam masks and thanka paintings. Visit Memorial Chorten, a major landmark of the city. This stupa is an important site of worship for locals. This is an ideal spot to shoot daily life of Thimphu. It is abuzz with activity all day and you can click some lovely street scenes here. Schoolchildren and office workers throng the premises to offers prayers and incense. Old people with prayer wheels and women with babies tied to their backs throng the premises. Also photograph the rows of butter lamps inside the temple. Overnight in Thimphu.

“…Leon says it is the Bhutan Time Warp and I know what he means. Time does not hurl itself forward at breakneck speed here. Change happens very slowly. A grandmother and her granddaughter wear the same kind of clothes, they do the same work, they know the same songs. The granddaughter does not find her grandmother an embarrassing, boring relic.” - Jamie Zappa, Beyond the Sky and the Earth: A Journey into Bhutan

Snapshots of Bhutan 5.

People paint phalluses on the thresholds of the houses to ward off evil. The colourful flying phallus is an important religious and cultural symbol of Bhutan.

Snapshots of Bhutan: Day 3 6.

Day 3: Thimphu – Dochu La – Punakha

Drive to Punakha via Dochu La. This mountain pass offers spectacular views of

Bhutan Himalayas. The highlights of the area are 108 chortens and Druk Wangyal

Lhakhang. Dochu La is also famous for its beautiful rhododendron forests. During

spring, photographers throng the place to shoot red and pink blooms. You get the

best views of Himalayas from Dochu La at sunrise. The clouds descend over the area

and distant mountains turn pale pink at dawn. The streaks of sunlight filters through

dense foliage above the chortens. Also, shoot the surrounding mist-covered hillsides

and beautiful rhododendrons. The golden morning light is also ideal for

photographing white chortens.

Upon reaching Punakha, visit Chimi Lhakhang (The Temple of Divine Madman).

This monastery honours an eccentric lama, Drukpa Kunley. He earned the

establishment's wrath for his unconventional preaching methods. He particularly

gained notoriety for advocating the use of phalluses to ward off evil. The colourful

flying phallus is an important cultural symbol of Bhutan. As a tribute to Drukpa

Kunley, people paint these phalluses on the thresholds of their homes. Afterwards,

walk around Lobesa village to shoot street scenes and portraits of villagers.

Punakha Valley is one of the most scenic places in Bhutan. The beautiful terraced

fields are among its most prized features. Every village in the valley has these green

and golden fields. No matter what the season, the terraced fields are photographers'

delight. You will get many opportunities during the day to shoot in the fields. Also,

photograph traditional farming methods employed by the farmers here.

“Bhutan does seem a bit unreal at times. Hardly anybody in the U.S. knows where it is. I have friends who still think the entire country is a figment of my imagination. When I was getting ready to move there, and I told people I was going to work in Bhutan, they'd inevitably ask, "Where's Butane?" - Linda Leaming, Married to Bhutan

Snapshots of Bhutan 7. Punakha Dzong. This glorious Dzong is one of the greatest emblems of Bhutanese architecture. It is among the most photographed sites in Bhutan.

Snapshots of Bhutan: Day 4 and Day 5 8.

Day 4: Punakha Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. The trail passes picturesque paddy fields and offers breathtaking views of the valley. You can shoot some spectacular shots of Punakha Valley and Mo Chhu River. The temple itself is worth the effort. Beautiful idols and stunning murals adorn its interiors. The view from the roof is among the most spectacular vistas of Bhutan. Later drive to Talo Village. Although Talo Monastery is off-limits for tourists, the village is worth a visit. Set amid Himalayan cedars, quaint Talo Village never fails to charm the visitors. Several snow-covered peaks of northern Bhutan are visible from Talo. On your way back, visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery. It houses a prominent Nepali-style stupa and a beautiful Lhakhang. The chortens behind the nunnery and the stunning vistas are photographers’ dream. Afterwards, visit and photograph majestic Punakha Dzong. The Dzong sits at the confluence of two rivers - a perfect setting for landscape photography. It is an outstanding example of Bhutanese architecture. Also, visit the longest suspension bridge of the country behind the fortress. The place offers great views of surrounding fields and the river below. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 5: Punakha – Phobjikha/Gangtey

Rise early to take pics of Punakha Dzong. Walk through the villages to shoot pictures of people and monks on their way to the temples. Hike the neighbouring hills to photograph shafts of morning light in the forests. Drive to Phobjikha/Gangtey, a lovely valley near Pele La. The road winds through a breathtaking landscape of terraced fields and farmhouses. Phobjikha/Gangtey is famous for the Black-necked Cranes that migrate here from Tibet during winters. It is a well-known biodiversity hotspot of Bhutan. Birdwatchers and photographers visit here every winter to attend Black-necked Crane Festival. Overnight in Gangtey.

Snapshots of Bhutan: Day 6 and Day 7 9. Day 6: Phobjikha/Gangtey – Trongsa Visit Gangteng Monastery, an important seat of Nyingma Buddhism in the country. The monastery occupies prime spot atop a hill and commands brilliant views of the valley. Visit Black-necked Crane Information Centre in Phobjikha valley. It houses informative exhibits on Black-necked Cranes and other Himalayan species. Later, hike Gangtey Nature Trail and photograph flora and fauna and surrounding landscapes. Afterwards, drive to Trongsa. The road passes an area of outstanding scenic beauty. The journey takes you through beautiful valleys and quaint villages with terraced fields. Stop at various lookout points to photograph the stunning vistas. Overnight in Trongsa.

Day 7: Trongsa – Bumthang Visit magnificent Trongsa Dzong, the largest fortress in Bhutan. Trongsa Dzong and Museum are the greatest examples of Bhutanese architecture.The Dzong sits on a spur right above Mangde Chhu and offers breathtaking views of the valley. This maze-like Dzong covers the entire ridge and has several interconnected buildings, passages, courtyards and 23 lhakhangs. Trongsa museum houses precious Buddhist and Royal artefacts. The most important artefact here is a copy Padma Katang, the biography of Guru Rinpoche by his consort Yeshe Tsogyel. Drive to Bumthang. Bumthang means “beautiful field” and this place lives up to its name. It is the cultural and spiritual centre of Bhutan and affords great photo-worthy content. The monasteries and Lhakhangs of Bumthang are emblems of Bhutanese culture. Photograph the verdant landscape, crimson-robed monks, worshipping pilgrims and traditional art and architecture. Begin your photo excursion from Jakar Dzong. The Dzong commands gorgeous views of Chokhor Valley and is an ideal spot for landscape photography. Overnight in Bumthang.

Snapshots of Bhutan: Day 8 10. Day 8: Bumthang Today, visit major religious sites in Bumthang. Although you can’t photograph inner sanctums, there are many other interesting subjects around these places. Monks at the monasteries are always willing to pose with a smile for pictures. Butter lamps and prayer wheels are among the most popular subjects. Visit Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temple in Bhutan. The main deity of the temple is Jowo Jampa (Future Buddha). Beautiful murals depicting 1000 Buddhas adorn the walls of the temple. The wooden floors of the temple have turned smooth due to centuries of prostrations. Visit Kurje Lhakhang where Guru Rinpoche left a body print while meditating. The complex houses three important temples. Guru Lhakhang depicts the struggle between Guru Rinpoche and local demon Shelging Kharpo. Sangay Lhakhang on the ground floor has a narrow cave. People believe that by crawling through the cave you leave your sins behind. The upper-most sanctum of the temple houses the body print of Guru Rinpoche. Visit Tamzhing Lhündrup Monastery, the most important centre of Nyingma Buddhism in Bhutan. Pema Lingpa, the founder of Nyingma Buddhism, constructed the present structure in 1501. The main deities of the temple are Guru Rinpoche and Jowo Jampa. Later, visit Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake). Locals believe that saint Pema Lingpa discovered treasures hidden by Guru Rinpoche here hence the lake has great religious importance in the region. Overnight in Bumthang.

Snapshots of Bhutan: Day 9 and Day 10 11. Day 9: Bumthang – Paro *Travel to Paro by air. Start your day with a visit to National Museum. It houses the finest collection of Bhutanese art, traditional artefacts and specimens of flora and fauna. The location offers spectacular views of the valley below. Next, drive to Kyichu Lhakhang. It is the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan and houses a 7th-century idol of Jowo Jampa(Future Buddha). The nearby Kyichu village is an ideal spot for photographing water-filled paddy patches and rose bushes. In the evening, visit Rinpung Dzong to photograph the illuminated monuments. Enjoy the sunset and photograph Paro Valley washed in varied colours of dusk. Stroll around the town centre and interact with locals. Shoot street scenes and portraits. Overnight in Paro. *Subject to availability of seats. Flights from Bumthang are often delayed or cancelled due to bad weather. In case of cancellation, we will make alternate arrangements and customize your itinerary.

Day 10: Paro, Tiger’s Nest Today, hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. No matter how many pictures you have seen of this legendary site, the real thing will take your breath away. The trail winds through a beautiful forest and offers great views of the valley below. It culminates at a lookout point opposite the monastery - an ideal spot for photographing Tiger’s Nest and the surrounding verdant hills. According to the legend, Guru Rinpoche manifested here as wrathful Dorje Drolo to subdue an evil spirit. Upon reaching Tiger’s Nest, learn more about the mythology of the site and revel in the scenery. In the afternoon, visit a farmhouse in the valley to photograph a rural Bhutanese household. Join the family in their fields for pictures. Sit around the hearth and sample a Bhutanese delicacy with a cup of Suja (Bhutanese butter tea). Later, dress up in Bhutanese attire and try your hand at archery. Overnight in Paro.

Snapshots of Bhutan: Day 11 and Day 12 12. Day 11: Paro – Chele La – Haa Drive to Haa Valley. Haa is a great place to delve into a variety of photography genres. Start your day with a visit to Dzongdrakha Gompa on Paro-Cheli La Road. If Taktsang is the pride of the Paro Valley then this less-visited, spectacular monastery is the hidden gem of the valley. Since the place receives fewer tourists, it is a good place to photograph without any intrusion. Visit Kila Gompa, the oldest nunnery in Bhutan.The building, wedged between cliffs near Chele La, serves as the residence to 100 nuns. This visit provides good opportunity to photograph the hermetic lives of Buddhist scholars. Continue to Chele La to photograph white poppy and other Himalayan flora. Visit Haa town and the surrounding villages. Set amid, rugged mountains, Haa Valley is a favourite destination for nature lovers. It is among the last places in Bhutan where people still follow the pre-Buddhist Bon rituals. Photograph religious sites, people and the rugged scenery of Haa. Later, drive back to your hotel in Paro and spend the evening at leisure. Overnight in Paro.

Day 12: Departure Drive to Paro Airport to fly home.

“We have just returned from a wonderful 13 day trip with Raven Tours. We were able to see this beautiful country with its fantastic temples and dzongs and learn about the religious and historical significance of each place, thanks to the knowledge and commitment of our excellent guide, Kinley and the skilful driving of our driver, Colin. Together they informed and entertained us throughout every journey. We woke up each morning looking forward to the day ahead and by the end of the trip, we felt like a group of friends. Kinley was always flexible with the itinerary and we hiked together to reach the important places and on the day of the Tigers Nest climb, Colin came too and we all supported each other. We learned so much about peace and serenity on this tour. We saw for ourselves how communities worked together, respected the land and ensured that no one went without.” - Norma B, London

Snapshots of Bhutan: Important Information 13.

Following items of clothing are not allowed inside Dzongs, monasteries and temples:

Hats/caps Shorts/short skirts Slippers/flip-flops Shawls, stoles and scarves are not allowed in the rooms for butter lamps.

Maintain a respectful distance while photographing monks and worshippers. You can photograph the courtyards but not inside the sanctums/shrines of the temples. Dzongs also function as government offices and house monastic bodies. So, all areas are not open to general public. We know you want the best shot of the performers during festivals and we will help you with that. But do not interrupt the dancers while they are performing. Don't go too close to the performing area or holy relics. Several tourists complain of barking dogs at night around the city centre. Upon request, we can arrange an accommodation at a peaceful location on the outskirts. But you may not be able to visit commercial centres in the evening. This itinerary lists all the major attractions of Western and Central Bhutan. If you want to visit a particular site, you can inform us before or during the trip.