Itinerary Summary
Day 1: Reception at airport and drive to Thimphu. The adventure begins in the capital city surrounded by stunning landscapes. We will be exploring the Motihang Takin preserve. From the Wang Chhu river to the picturesque fog filled Rhododendron forests Thimphu offers a wealth of natural beauty.
Day 2 : We travel to Punakha traversing the breathtaking Dochula pass. This route offers panoramic views of the snowcapped Himalayan range. Prayer flags, flowering meadows, verdant valleys and the crystal clear waters at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers offer the perfect setting for landscape photography.
Day 3 : We continue our journey to Gangtey nestled in the scenic Phobjikha valley famous for its stunning landscapes. This workshop is timed to specifically capture the incredible wild flowers across the rolling hills and marshlands.
Day 4 & 5 : We explore Bumthang a paradise for nature photographers. Home to ancient forests of the Tang valley, numerous mountain streams, waterfalls and lush flower filled meadows, this region offers endless photographic opportunities.
Day 6 : We cross Thrumshingla pass to reach Mongar. This high altitude pass offers spectacular views of the eastern Himalayas. A hike through the lush alpine forest brings us to Larjab Drakar Choeling monastery a secluded meditation retreat for Buddhist monks. Built in the early 1700s this monastery is rich in cultural history woven with the mythology of sky dancers.
Day 7 : Our journey continues to Lhuntse one of the most isloated districts of Bhutan The landscape is spectacular with stark cliffs towering over deep river gorges and dense coniferous forests. Due to its remote location the landscape is tranquil and pristine. The district is bordered by Wangchuck Centennial park in the north, Thrumshingla national park in the south and Bumdeling wildlife sanctuary in the east.
Day 8 : We spend the day in Trashigang home to the Sakteng wildlife sanctuary created to protect the migoi a type of Yeti believed to be in existence by most Bhutanese people. The town is set on a scenic hillside and home to the semi nomadic people of Merak and Sakteng with their unique way of dressing. We will be able to create some environmental portraits at this location.
Day 9 : We explore the highland village of Sakteng where we will be photographing the alpine scenery and traditional yak herding lifestyle. The high altitude meadows are perfect for photographing wildflowers and the rugged terrain.
Day 10 : Having concluded our adventure in Eastern Bhutan we fly back to Paro. This is a relaxed day with visits to the local market in Paro, spa treatments, post processing and image critique sessions. In essence this is a day of rest prior to our hike to Tiger Nest Monastery.
Day 11 : Today we hike to the most iconic landmark in Bhutan which dates back to the 8th century, the cliffside Taktsang (Tiger nest) monastery. The hike is through alpine forests with spectacular views of Paro valley. There will be several vantage points along the way to photograph the monastery itself as well.
Day 12 : Departure from Paro international airport.
Above itinerary is subject to change given weather, road conditions and best locations for wildflowers. Throughout our adventure in Bhutan we will be having multiple post processing sessions. This will give us not only an opportunity to review images acquired, but also learn how to how to optimize image rendition to suit your individual creative vision.
Workshop fee: $5500 (double occupancy). Single supplement $750.
Includes: Transfer to and from airport, accomodations for 11 nights, meals, all domestic ground transportation, entry to national parks, personal porter for longer hikes including the Tiger Nest hike, the mandatory sustainability tax and visa fees.
Excludes: Alcoholic drinks, misc expenses. Domestic flight from Trashing to Paro. Airfare to Bhutan and back.
Cancellation Policy
If workshop is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances a full refund will be issued. If canceled by participant 4 months prior to travel credit will be applied to future workshop of your choice. If canceled within 4 months of start date no refunds can be issued.
Detailed itinerary and packing list will be sent to registered participants 10 days before the workshop.
