10 Days in Eastern Bhutan: A Photographer's Dream Itinerary

Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is a place that has long captivated the imagination of travelers and photographers alike. This tiny Himalayan kingdom, nestled between India and China, offers a treasure trove of natural and cultural wonders that are a delight to capture through the lens of a camera. While the western part of Bhutan, with its famous destinations like Paro and Thimphu, often steals the limelight, the eastern region remains relatively unexplored and untouched by the masses. In this blog, we will take you on a 10-day journey through Eastern Bhutan, a photographer's dream itinerary that promises stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unique photo opportunities at every turn.

Day 1: Arrival in Paro
Your Eastern Bhutan adventure begins in Paro, where you will land at the international airport. As you descend from the plane, you'll be greeted by the breathtaking sight of Paro Valley surrounded by towering mountains. It's an ideal place to start your photography journey in Bhutan. Spend the day exploring the town, its charming streets, and the iconic Paro Dzong. The evening provides an excellent opportunity for sunset photography with the dzong as a backdrop.

Photography Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of Paro Dzong and its reflection in the river.

Day 2: Journey to Trashigang
After a hearty breakfast in Paro, embark on a picturesque drive to Trashigang, the largest district in Bhutan, located in the eastern part of the country. The journey itself is a photographer's delight, with the winding roads taking you through lush valleys, dense forests, and terraced fields. Stop along the way to capture the vibrant prayer flags that adorn the roadsides.

Photography Tip: Experiment with long-exposure shots to capture the fluttering prayer flags in motion.

Day 3: Explore Trashigang
Spend the day exploring Trashigang and its surroundings. The Trashigang Dzong, perched on a hilltop, offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding valleys. Visit the bustling local market to capture the vibrant colors of Bhutanese life.

Photography Tip: Engage with the locals, seek their permission before taking portraits, and capture the authenticity of daily life in Trashigang.

Day 4: Tashiyangtse and Chorten Kora
Drive to Tashiyangtse, a serene town known for its traditional art and crafts. Visit the Tashiyangtse Dzong and the renowned Chorten Kora, a stupa built in Nepalese style, which is a popular pilgrimage site. The intricate details of the stupa and the surrounding landscape provide excellent photographic opportunities.

Photography Tip: Capture the play of light and shadow on the stupa's intricate carvings, and don't forget to photograph the pilgrims who flock to this sacred site.

Day 5: Merak and Sakteng
Today, venture into the remote villages of Merak and Sakteng, which are inhabited by the semi-nomadic Brokpas. The unique culture, traditional attire, and beautiful landscapes make these villages a haven for photographers. Spend time interacting with the locals and capturing their way of life.

Photography Tip: Use a portrait lens to capture the intricate details of the Brokpa attire and the rugged terrain of this region.

Day 6: Lhuntse
Drive to Lhuntse, a region known for its textiles and weaving traditions. Visit the Lhuntse Dzong and the nearby Khoma village, famous for its intricately woven Kira (traditional Bhutanese dress). The vibrant colors and patterns of the textiles make for captivating photographs.

Photography Tip: Experiment with close-up shots to highlight the textile details, and use a polarizing filter to enhance the colors.

Day 7: Trashiyangtse to Mongar
Return to Trashiyangtse and then continue your journey to Mongar, a town known for its beautiful landscapes and the Mongar Dzong. The drive takes you through dense forests and offers breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas.

Photography Tip: Capture the changing landscapes as you ascend to higher altitudes, and keep an eye out for wildlife photography opportunities.

Day 8: Mongar and Lhuentse
Explore Mongar and its surroundings, including the Mongar Dzong, which is one of the newest dzongs in Bhutan. Drive back to Lhuentse in the afternoon and spend the evening capturing the serene beauty of this region.

Photography Tip: Capture the architectural details of Mongar Dzong and the serene landscapes surrounding it.

Day 9: Return to Trashigang
As you make your way back to Trashigang, take the opportunity to revisit any sites you found particularly compelling on your initial visit. The ever-changing light conditions in the Himalayas can offer new photographic perspectives.

Photography Tip: Revisit the Trashigang Dzong and local market for fresh photographic opportunities.

Day 10: Paro via Trashigang
Begin your journey back to Paro, capturing the mesmerizing landscapes and villages along the way. Make stops at scenic viewpoints to capture the beauty of Eastern Bhutan one last time.

Photography Tip: Use your return journey as an opportunity to reflect on your experiences and capture the essence of Bhutan's eastern region.

Conclusion
A 10-day photography journey through Eastern Bhutan offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and authentic experiences that are a dream come true for any photographer. From the majestic dzongs to the remote villages, from the stunning landscapes to the vibrant traditions, Eastern Bhutan is a treasure trove of photographic opportunities waiting to be explored. So, pack your camera gear, embark on this incredible journey, and capture the magic of Eastern Bhutan through your lens.