Bhutan is an extraordinary place for capturing stunning photos and videos. The country’s landscapes, architecture, and culture are all incredibly photogenic. To make sure you get the best shots on your trip, here are some important tips on where to go, what time of day to visit, what equipment to bring, and how to respect the local culture while snapping away.
The Best Locations for Photography in Bhutan
Bhutan’s unique beauty can be found everywhere, but some spots stand out as the best for photos. Here are a few you should definitely check out when capturing your memories:
Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang)
Tiger’s Nest is Bhutan’s most iconic site. Nestled on a cliff, this monastery is a must-see and offers unbeatable photo opportunities. The best time to photograph here is in the morning when the light is soft, and fewer tourists crowd the trails. Don’t forget to capture the panoramic views of the valley as well!
Punakha Dzong
One of the largest and most beautiful dzongs (forts) in Bhutan, Punakha Dzong is especially photogenic thanks to its riverside location. The best shots are taken late afternoon when the golden hour bathes the fort in a warm glow and the surrounding mountains create a dreamy backdrop.
Dochula Pass
With its 108 chortens (Buddhist shrines) set against a backdrop of the Himalayas, Dochula Pass offers picturesque scenery that’s hard to beat. Try capturing this spot at sunrise or sunset when the light hits the snow-capped mountains. You’ll need to be patient with the changing weather—the pass can often be foggy, but when it clears, it’s magical.
Phobjikha Valley
A wide, glacial valley bordered by forests, Phobjikha is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike. This valley is especially magical during the winter months when black-necked cranes migrate here. The subtle fog and morning mist can create an ethereal atmosphere, making for incredible and unique photos.
Thimphu’s Buddha Dordenma Statue

Overlooking Bhutan’s capital city, the Buddha Dordenma Statue is a striking landmark. It’s impressive during the day, but it gets even better in the evening, when the entire statue is illuminated. Capture shots from various angles to include both the statue and the surrounding landscape.
The Best Times of Day to Shoot
If you want the best lighting, aiming to shoot early in the morning or late in the afternoon is usually your safest bet. Bhutan’s landscapes change dramatically depending on the light, and you’ll want that golden hour glow or soft morning light:
Morning Light
The early morning light offers a softer, more diffused light that’s perfect for landscape photography. If you’re trekking to locations like Tiger’s Nest, consider starting before sunrise to catch the morning fog in the valleys—it adds a mystical quality to photos.
Golden Hour
The period just after sunrise and right before sunset is ‘golden hour’ for photographers. The warm, directional light allows for beautiful portrait shots, especially against Bhutan’s mountainous or dzong backdrops. The colors become more vibrant, and shadows add depth.
Blue Hour
This is the time just after sunset but before it gets completely dark. Blue hour shots give a more serene, moody feel to your images. In Bhutan, the blue hour is especially great for capturing the dzongs and monasteries, which are sometimes lit up. The contrast of the glowing buildings against the fading natural light can look striking in photos.
Cultural Considerations When Taking Photos
Bhutan is a culturally rich country, and showing respect is important when photographing people or religious sites. Keep these tips in mind:
Ask Permission Before Photographing People
Some Bhutanese people may not feel comfortable being photographed, especially in monasteries or rural areas. It’s always a good idea to ask first. A simple smile, coupled with a gesture towards your camera, will usually get you a response. If someone says “no,” respect that and move on.

Respect Religious Ceremonies
You’ll encounter many religious rituals and festivals in Bhutan, such as the Tshechu festivals. While it’s tempting to photograph everything, be mindful of the atmosphere, especially during prayers or important rituals. Flash photography may be prohibited, and some monasteries may not allow photos at all inside. Check the rules and follow them to avoid offending locals.
Avoid Using Drones in Restricted Areas
Drones are allowed in Bhutan under certain conditions, but they are banned near monasteries, dzongs, and other sensitive areas. Always check permissions before flying, as breaking rules can result in fines or confiscation of the drone.
Recommended Camera Gear & Smartphone Tips
You don’t need a professional camera to get great photos and videos in Bhutan. Whether you’re using a DSLR or a smartphone, here’s how to maximize your shots:
DSLR or Mirrorless Camera
If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, great! You’ll have more control over your settings, which is helpful when the lighting changes throughout the day. A wide-angle lens (24-70mm) is perfect for landscape shots, while a portrait lens (50-85mm) will come in handy for capturing details and close-ups of people and architecture.

Tripod
A travel-friendly tripod can be essential, especially if you want to capture long-exposure shots at dawn or dusk. It will also help stabilize your camera in low-light situations like monasteries. Bonus: You can use it for group photos without relying on someone else to take the picture.
Filters
Using a polarizing filter can make a big difference, particularly for landscape photography. It enhances colors, reduces glare, and makes the sky pop. Neutral density (ND) filters also help when shooting in bright conditions, allowing for slower shutter speeds to create smooth water effect shots or motion blur.
Smartphone Photography
If you’re using your smartphone to capture photos and videos, you can still achieve excellent results:

- Use HDR settings to balance shadows and highlights in landscape photos.
- Lock focus by pressing on the subject in your frame. This ensures the camera doesn’t refocus mid-shot.
- Take advantage of gridlines to keep your horizon straight and follow the rule of thirds.
- Download editing apps like Lightroom or Snapseed for post-processing. Even slight tweaks to exposure and sharpness can make a big difference!
Treat Your Photography Like a Story
When capturing Bhutan, remember that you’re telling a story through your photos and videos. Mix wide landscape shots with detailed close-ups of daily life, local food, or traditional crafts. A variety of subjects and perspectives will help you portray the full experience of your trip when you share it with others.
Travel slow and stay mindful of your environment. Bhutan is full of small treasures—whether it’s a smile from a local farmer, the flutter of a prayer flag, or the colors of a festival. By remaining present and respectful, you’ll not only come home with great photos but also with an appreciation of the country’s natural and cultural beauty.
Happy shooting!
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