Pictures of the Dragon Tour
Embark on a visually stunning and culturally immersive 5-day journey through western Bhutan—designed for travelers seeking to capture the essence of the Land of the Thunder Dragon. From ancient fortresses and sacred temples to dramatic mountain passes and serene valleys, this tour offers a perfect blend of heritage, spirituality, and Himalayan scenery. Ideal for photographers, culture lovers, and nature enthusiasts, the itinerary includes iconic sites like the cliff-hugging Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the majestic Punakha Dzong, and panoramic views from Dochula Pass—each a picture waiting to be taken.
Discover Bhutan not just through your lens, but through its living traditions, warm people, and timeless beauty
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Theme: Culture, Heritage & Landscape
Destinations: Paro • Thimphu • Wangduephodrang • Punakha
Entry/Exit: Paro International Airport
Best Seasons: Year-round (ideal from March–May and September–November)
Tour Highlights
-
Capture Bhutan’s majestic fortresses (Dzongs), timeless monasteries, and scenic valleys
-
Explore the iconic cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktshang)
-
Visit Dochula Pass, offering panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas
-
Photograph Bhutanese daily life, vibrant markets, and cultural icons
-
Experience traditional Bhutanese architecture, lifestyle, and spirituality
-
Optional: Cultural dress photo sessions and access to high-viewpoints for sunrise/sunset shoots
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Cultural Sightseeing – Drive to Thimphu
Highlights:
Scenic Himalayan flight • Paro Rinpung Dzong • National Museum • Kyichu Lhakhang • Drive to Thimphu • Evening cityscape
Details:
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, be welcomed by your guide from Asiatic Bhutan Tours. After settling in, begin exploring Paro’s cultural wonders:
-
Ta Dzong (National Museum): A round tower housing thangkas, sacred masks, and Bhutanese relics
-
Paro Rinpung Dzong: Majestic 17th-century fortress overlooking Paro Valley
-
Kyichu Lhakhang: A sacred temple built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo
In the late afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive to Thimphu (1.5 hrs). If time permits, stop for photos at Tamchog Lhakhang and the Iron Bridge.
Overnight in Thimphu
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing – Dochula Pass – Drive to Punakha
Highlights:
Buddha Dordenma • Memorial Chorten • Handicrafts Market • Dochula Pass • Punakha Dzong
Details:
Explore Bhutan’s dynamic capital with a blend of tradition and modernity:
-
Buddha Dordenma: A colossal golden statue offering panoramic views of Thimphu
-
Memorial Chorten: Built in memory of the Third King, rich in spiritual symbolism
-
Craft Bazaar & Art School: Ideal for capturing artisan life and traditional crafts
After lunch, drive over the breathtaking Dochula Pass (3,100m), with 108 chortens and views of snow-capped peaks.
Descend into the lush Punakha Valley and visit:
Overnight in Punakha
Day 3: Punakha – Chimi Lhakhang – Wangdue – Return to Paro
Highlights:
Fertility Temple walk • Rural landscape • River valleys • Wangdue Dzong ruins
Details:
Begin your day with a walk through rice fields to reach:
En route to Paro, stop at the ruins of Wangduephodrang Dzong, originally built in 1638 and now undergoing reconstruction.
Enjoy photo stops at river bends, farmhouses, and Himalayan hillsides as you retrace your journey back to Paro.
Overnight in Paro
Day 4: Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktshang)
Highlights:
Iconic Taktshang Monastery • Pine forest trails • Perfect photography scenes
Details:
Today is the highlight of the tour — the iconic hike to Bhutan’s most sacred site:
The 4–5 hour round-trip hike passes through pine forests, fluttering prayer flags, and scenic cafés. Every step reveals a view worthy of a postcard.
Evening options:
-
Visit Drukgyel Dzong ruins (if time allows), built to commemorate Bhutan's victory over Tibetan invasions
-
Explore Paro Town for cultural photography, handicrafts, or traditional Bhutanese attire photo session
Overnight in Paro
Day 5: Departure from Paro
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Bid farewell to the Dragon Kingdom with a heart full of memories and a camera full of Bhutan’s timeless beauty.
Tashi Delek & Safe Travels!
Tour Inclusions
-
Visa processing and government fees
-
Licensed English-speaking guide
-
All accommodations in 3-star hotels or boutique lodges
-
All ground transportation with driver
-
Monument & entrance fees
-
All meals (B/L/D)
-
Bottled mineral water
-
Cultural walk, heritage access, and guided monastery visits
-
Hike to Tiger’s Nest with support
