Real photos from our tours · Kingdom of Happiness Tours

Bhutan Photo Gallery

Dzongs and temples, tshechu mask dances, black-necked cranes in Phobjikha, Himalayan peaks and the guests who travelled with us. These photos come from our own trips, not stock libraries, so this is the Bhutan you will actually see.
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Photography Rules in Bhutan

Licensed by Bhutan's Department of Tourism · Licence No. 1052914

Behind the photos

Where and when to see these sights

Want to stand where these photos were taken? Here is when to go and how we fit each one into a trip.

Punakha Dzong

Built in 1637 where two rivers meet, it is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful dzongs. In spring, purple jacaranda trees bloom around it. On most western Bhutan tours.

Tshechu festivals

Mask dances are held in dzong courtyards throughout the year. Paro Tshechu is 18–22 March and Thimphu Tshechu 10–12 October 2027 on the official tentative list. See all dates.

Black-necked cranes

The endangered cranes winter in Phobjikha Valley from about late October to February. The Black-Necked Crane Festival at Gangtey Goenpa is held on 11 November.

Himalayan views

The clearest mountain views come from October to January. Dochula Pass (3,100 m), between Thimphu and Punakha, is the classic viewpoint on a clear morning.

Flying into Paro

Paro’s airport sits in a narrow valley, and the approach between the mountains is unforgettable. Flights are run by Drukair and Bhutan Airlines.

Monastic life

Many monasteries welcome visitors to the courtyards, and our monk stay and meditation tours give a closer look at daily life. Always ask before photographing monks.

Photography in Bhutan

Taking great photos, respectfully

Not inside temples

Photography is not allowed inside temples, lhakhangs and dzong shrine rooms. Courtyards and exteriors are usually fine; your guide will tell you where.

Tiger's Nest

Phones and cameras are left at the entrance to the monastery. Take your photos from the viewpoint opposite and on the trail.

At festivals

Shoot from the edges, do not use flash and never step into the dance ground. Arrive early for a good spot.

Ask first

Ask before taking close-up photos of people, especially monks and elders. Most people are happy to be asked.

Drones

Flying a drone without a permit from the Bhutan Civil Aviation Authority is prohibited, and permits are hard to get. Unless arranged well in advance, leave your drone at home.

Best light

Autumn brings clear skies, spring brings rhododendrons and jacaranda, and winter mornings are crisp. Carry spare batteries, as they drain quickly in the cold.

FAQ

Photography and sightseeing questions

Keen photographer? See our Bhutan photography tour or festival tours.

Are these real photos of Bhutan?
Yes. The photos in this gallery come from our own tours and our team in Bhutan, including the guests who travelled with us.
Yes, almost everywhere outdoors, including dzong courtyards and festivals. Photography is not allowed inside temples and shrine rooms, and at Tiger’s Nest phones and cameras stay at the entrance.
Only with a permit from the Bhutan Civil Aviation Authority. Permits are difficult to get, so most visitors leave drones at home.
October to December for clear mountain views and autumn festivals, March to May for rhododendrons, jacaranda and spring festivals, and November to February for black-necked cranes in Phobjikha.
Tiger’s Nest, Punakha Dzong, Dochula Pass, Phobjikha Valley, Paro Rinpung Dzong and a tshechu courtyard on festival day.
Yes, from a respectful distance and without flash. Ask before close-ups, and never walk into the dance area.

See it for yourself

Plan a trip to see these sights

Tell us which photos inspired you. We will plan a free day-by-day itinerary around them, timed for festivals, cranes or the clearest mountain views.
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