Nepal & Bhutan Photo Expedition
Nepal & Bhutan Photo Expedition
This immersive photo expedition brings together two of the Himalayas’ most captivating kingdoms, combining Nepal’s vibrant cultural heritage and lowland wildlife with Bhutan’s mountain landscapes, sacred valleys and deeply preserved Buddhist traditions. Designed specifically for photographers, the journey offers an unusually varied range of subjects, from the temples and artisan quarters of the Kathmandu Valley to the subtropical forests of Chitwan National Park, where one-horned rhinos, crocodiles, gharial, birdlife and the elusive signs of tiger presence provide thrilling wildlife opportunities.
In Bhutan, the focus shifts to alpine panoramas, prayer-flag-draped passes, tranquil valleys and some of the most atmospheric monasteries in the Himalayas. Photograph the chortens of Dochula Pass, the riverside grandeur of Punakha Dzong, the wetlands of Gangtey Valley, black-necked cranes, traditional archery and the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery clinging to its cliff high above Paro. With a small group of just 9 guests, expert photo leadership, hands-on instruction and time built in for thoughtful composition, this is a richly layered journey through nature, culture and Himalayan light.
Highlights
- Photograph the contrasts of Nepal and Bhutan, from Kathmandu’s ancient squares and Chitwan’s wildlife-rich lowlands to Bhutan’s high passes, sacred valleys and cliffside monasteries
- Enjoy expert photographic guidance in a small group of just 9 guests, with hands-on instruction, image review and outings planned around light, composition and subject matter
- Explore Chitwan National Park on 4x4 safaris in search of one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephant, crocodile, gharial, deer, monkeys, birdlife and signs of Bengal tiger
- Discover the cultural treasures of the Kathmandu Valley, including Bhaktapur and Patan, where temples, artisan workshops, palace courtyards and lively streets provide rich photographic opportunities
- Capture Bhutan’s iconic landscapes and sacred sites, from Dochula Pass and Punakha Dzong to Gangtey Monastery and the unforgettable Tiger’s Nest
- Spend extended time in Gangtey Valley, photographing glacial wetlands, rural scenes and, in season, the elegant black-necked cranes so revered in Bhutanese culture
- Stay in unique, high quality accommodation throughout
What's Included
- Return flights between Kathmandu and Bharatpur
- Flight Kathmandu to Paro
- Flight Paro to Bangkok
- Accommodation each night
- All meals throughout the expedition
- Services of professional Expedition Leader(s), local guides and camp staff
- Airport transfers on day 1 and final day (in Bhutan only)
- All activities and entrance fees, taxes, permits and service fees
So much to experience
Our popularitinerary Suggestions
All our itinerary holidays are fully customisable
Kathmandu, Nepal
Dhulikhel - Himalaya Photography / Bhaktapur
Fly to Bharatpur / Chitwan National Park
Photo Safaris in Chitwan National Park
Bharatpur to Kathmandu
Fly to Paro, Bhutan / Thimphu
Dochula Pass / Lamperi Royal Botanical Park / Punakha Dzong
Punakha Hike / Jigme Dorji N.P
Gangtey Valley
Paro Valley - Archery Lesson
Tiger's Nest Monastery
Paro to Bangkok - End of Tour
A view from Above
Accommodation Options
Dwarika's Hotel, Kathmandu
Dwarika’s Hotel is an atmospheric heritage retreat in Kathmandu, inspired by the palaces of the Newar kings and the rich artistic traditions of the Kathmandu Valley. More than just a place to stay, it feels like a living museum, with intricate carved woodwork, terracotta details and an extensive collection of historic artefacts dating back as far as the 14th century.
Its 87 rooms and suites blend traditional Newari design with the comfort of a luxury hotel, featuring dark hardwood beams, tiled floors, handmade furniture, organic linens and carefully chosen antiques. Guests can dine across three restaurants and a bar, with dishes prepared using fresh produce from Dwarika’s own farm, then unwind in the library, by the Malla-inspired swimming pool, with a yoga class or at the Pancha Kosha Spa. Elegant, deeply rooted in place and full of character, Dwarika’s is one of Kathmandu’s most distinctive stays
The Postcard Dewa, Thimphu
The Postcard Dewa is a serene 5-star retreat tucked into forest on the outskirts of Thimphu, with beautiful views across the Khasadraphchu Valley, Wangchu River and the eastern Himalayas. Quiet and secluded yet close to Bhutan’s capital, it offers a peaceful base for exploring monasteries, markets and mountain landscapes before returning to complete calm.
With just 15 spacious, light-filled rooms, the hotel feels intimate and restful. Interiors blend modern luxury with traditional Bhutanese art, textiles and colour, while each room has a generous bathroom and private outdoor seating for slow mornings with tea or coffee and valley views. Dining is a highlight, with local ingredients such as red rice, Bhutanese chillies and mountain trout woven into regional dishes. After a day out, guests can unwind in the glass-enclosed temperature-controlled pool, join yoga or meditation, or retreat to the spa for massage, steam, Ayurveda treatments or a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath
Gangtey Lodge, Gangtey Valley
Gangtey Lodge is an elegant mountain retreat perched above Bhutan’s beautiful Phobjikha Valley, with sweeping views across the glacial landscape and towards the 17th-century Gangtey Monastery. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, it combines the warmth of a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse with the polish of five-star hospitality, from carved woodwork and exposed stone to cosy fireplaces and locally crafted details.
Spacious suites are designed for lingering, with heated slate floors, wood-burning stoves, soft lounge areas and deep roll-top bathtubs placed beside large windows overlooking the valley. After days spent exploring the countryside, visiting monasteries or breathing in the pine-scented mountain air, guests can return to the terrace, fireside lounge and intimate dining room for organic, chef-tailored meals, including Bhutanese specialities such as ema datshi. Warm, refined and deeply rooted in its setting, Gangtey Lodge is a wonderfully atmospheric base in one of Bhutan’s most peaceful valleys
Meghauli Serai, Chitwan N.P
Meghauli Serai is an elegant riverside safari lodge set in Nepal’s Terai lowlands, with exceptional access to Chitwan National Park. Perched on the banks of the Rapti River, it looks across to the park’s jungle landscapes, where one-horned rhinos, gharials and rich birdlife may be spotted even from the lodge itself.
The property’s 16 luxury riverside villas offer a serene retreat after time in the wilderness, each with spacious living areas, air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms and a private plunge pool. Dining is a highlight, with Newari and Tharu-inspired cuisine made using organic produce grown on site, whether served by the bonfire, on the river deck, beside the pool or in the privacy of your room. Between safari adventures, guests can unwind in the bar and lounge, swim in the infinity pool or relax with a spa treatment, making Meghauli Serai a refined and atmospheric base for exploring Chitwan
Punakha River Lodge, Punakha Valley
Punakha River Lodge is a secluded riverside sanctuary set on a quiet bend of the Mo Chhu River, surrounded by forested mountains, rice paddies and traditional farmhouses in Bhutan’s Punakha Valley. Reached by a suspended bridge, it feels wonderfully tucked away, with Bhutanese-inspired architecture, open-air lounges and dining spaces that draw the landscape right into the heart of the lodge.
Luxurious tented suites stand on stilts among riverbank trees and cane fields, each designed for privacy, valley views and deep comfort. Inside, hand-planed timber floors, wool rugs, carved altar tables and yak-wool throws create a warm sense of place, while copper soaking tubs, open-air rain showers, wood stoves, air conditioning and private decks add an even more luxurious edge. Days might include yoga in the glass-walled studio, spa treatments and hot stone baths beside the orchard, or slow meals of red rice, ema datshi and river fish cooked over open flames. Solar power, composting, reclaimed materials and support for local farms and artisans keep sustainability at the heart of the experience
COMO Uma Paro, Paro Valley
COMO Uma Paro is an intimate luxury retreat set in Bhutan’s beautiful Paro Valley, surrounded by pine forest and views of the Himalayan foothills. Blending contemporary calm with traditional Bhutanese design, the lodge features warm timber beams, natural textures, large windows and cosy fireplaces, creating a peaceful base for exploring one of the country’s most enchanting valleys.
Rooms are elegant and restful, with hand-painted Bhutanese wall motifs, natural wood furnishings and large windows framing the surrounding forest. Each comes with either a king or twin beds dressed in Italian linen, soft robes, plush towels and a soothing neutral palette that feels calm and uncluttered. Bathrooms include a combined shower and bathtub, along with COMO Shambhala amenities, while the rooms’ position close to the main lodge keeps dining and wellness facilities within easy reach. After a day exploring Paro, guests can unwind at the COMO Shambhala Retreat, home to a spa, yoga studio, indoor pool and Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath. Dining at Bukhari showcases seasonal Bhutanese and international flavours, and the hotel’s EarthCheck Silver Certification reflects a thoughtful commitment to more sustainable hospitality.
Too much to choose from? This is where we come in
Take advantage of our vast experience, passion and expertise to help you hand craft the perfect India adventure for you.
Having amassed a host of extraordinary adventures in destinations all over the world, Sheena’s experience, skills and enthusiasm for helping clients plan their ideal itinerary will help make your holiday unforgettable, action packed and life-changing.
Mike has more than 15 years of experience in the travel industry and continues to be inspired by the people, places and wildlife he discovers. His in-depth personal knowledge of a diverse range of destinations ensures your adventure itinerary will be a holiday like no other.
As Senior Travel Expert, Simon has an absolute wealth of experience in adventure travel in some of the most fascinating places in the world. With in-depth knowledge and fantastic organizational skills, Simon’s first-hand experience and genuine passion drive him to work to create your perfect itinerary.
Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?
Call us
0800 195 3385
Outside the uk
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Chat Now
Fill in our
Enquiry form
Book a
Consultation
Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?
Call us - 0800 195 3385
Outside the uk? + 44 1625 5811 43
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us - 0800 195 3385
Chat Now
Fill in our
Enquiry form
Book a
Consultation