8 Day Uma Paro Bhutan Through Lens

Capture the soul of Bhutan through your lens on an 8-day luxury journey with Uma Paro, where every frame tells a story of timeless beauty, spiritual serenity, and cultural wonder.

Discover Bhutan: A Photographer’s Paradise Through the Seasons

From bustling markets to prayer flag-strewn mountain passes, from joyful monks in maroon robes to towering ancient fortresses, Bhutan is a Shangri-La for image-makers. Every corner of this mystical kingdom offers a frame-worthy moment, and the changing seasons add their own magic to the landscape.

Your Bhutan adventure begins the moment you land at Paro Airport, where the friendly Uma Paro staff will warmly welcome you. A short 10-minute transfer will bring you to the luxurious comfort of Uma Paro, your home for the next few days.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Welcome and Acclimatization

Experience: After settling in and enjoying a delicious lunch, we invite you to embark on a guided local walk to help you acclimatize and get your bearings. This leisurely stroll is designed to introduce you to the charm of Paro while capturing its beauty through your lens.

2. Exploring Paro Town and Rinpung Dzong

Route: Your walk will take you through the bustling streets of Paro Town, where traditional Bhutanese architecture and vibrant local life create a feast for the senses.
Destination: The trail leads to the majestic Rinpung Dzong (Fortress on a Heap of Jewels), a stunning example of Bhutanese architecture and a photographer’s dream.
Iconic Bridge: Cross the Paro Chhu (river) via the traditional covered Nyamai Zam Bridge, famous for its appearances in films like Little Buddha and Travellers and Magicians.

3. Welcome Dinner and Photographic Briefing

Evening: As the sun sets, join us for a welcome dinner at Uma Paro, where you’ll enjoy a delightful meal infused with local flavors.
Photographic Adventure Briefing: After dinner, we’ll host a slide show and briefing to prepare you for the incredible photographic opportunities that await during your stay.

Today, embark on a one-hour scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital. This journey is a visual feast, winding alongside two snaking rivers and passing countless examples of Bhutan’s charming traditional farmhouses. Thimphu itself sprawls up a wooded hillside, serving as the heart of government, religion, and commerce in Bhutan.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Scenic Drive to Thimphu

Experience: Enjoy a picturesque drive through Bhutan’s lush valleys, where every turn reveals stunning landscapes and quaint farmhouses.
Route: The journey takes you alongside two rivers, offering serene views and a glimpse into rural Bhutanese life.

2. Thimphu: The Heart of Bhutan

Arrival: As you enter Thimphu, you’ll notice its unique blend of tradition and modernity. The city is a hub of culture, with monasteries, markets, and government buildings coexisting harmoniously.
Lunch: Savor a delicious meal at a local restaurant, sampling Bhutanese cuisine and soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

3. Dochu La Pass: A Himalayan Panorama

Drive: After lunch, embark on an awe-inspiring drive up to the 3,140-meter-high Dochu La Pass.
Experience: Marvel at the forests of fluttering prayer flags, the maze of memorial chortens, and the sweeping views of the Himalayan range. This is a photographer’s paradise, especially in the crisp mountain light.

4. Chimmi Lhakhang: The Fertility Temple

Walk: Enjoy a short, peaceful walk across rice paddies to reach Chimmi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley, the “Divine Madman.”
Significance: Known for his unconventional methods of teaching Buddhism, Drukpa Kuenley is celebrated here, and the temple is a popular pilgrimage site for those seeking blessings.
Setting: The temple sits atop a picturesque hill surrounded by lush rice fields, offering a serene and photogenic setting.

Today, immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and rich heritage of Punakha Valley, a lush region known for its fertile landscapes, historic dzongs, and serene rivers. At an elevation of 1,200 meters, the valley is warm enough to grow bananas and oranges, adding a tropical charm to its scenic vistas.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Morning Walk to Khamsum Yuley Namgay Chorten

Experience: Begin your day with an optional walk through whitewashed homesteads and terraced farmland. The destination is the stunning Khamsum Yuley Namgay Chorten, a shrine built by the royal family.
Significance: This shrine is dedicated to Guru Rinpoche, and its intricate artwork and serene setting make it a must-visit spiritual site.
Views: From the chorten, enjoy panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding mountains.

2. Punakha Dzong: The Palace of Great Happiness

Location: As you descend along the riverside, the majestic Punakha Dzong comes into view.
History: Built in 1637 by Shabdrung Nawang Namgyal, this fortress-monastery stands at the confluence of the Po Chhu and Mo Chhu (Father and Mother rivers).
Significance: Known as Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (the Palace of Great Happiness), it is Bhutan’s second-oldest dzong and arguably its most beautiful. It served as the seat of government until the time of the second king and is now the winter residence of Je Khempo, the head abbot, and 1,000 monks.
Experience: Explore its grand courtyards, intricate woodwork, and sacred shrines, and feel the spiritual energy that permeates this historic site.

3. Wangdue Phodrang: A Quaint Bazaar and Dzong

Afternoon Exploration: Conclude your day with a visit to the charming Wangdue Phodrang Bazaar, where you can browse local handicrafts and interact with friendly vendors.
Wangdue Phodrang Dzong: Perched on a high promontory overlooking the Punatsang Chhu River, this dzong was founded in 1638 by the Shabdrung. Though partially rebuilt after a fire, it remains a symbol of Bhutan’s resilience and heritage.

Today, retrace your steps back over the Dochu La Pass, offering you a second chance to marvel at the breathtaking views of the Himalayan range. This scenic journey is filled with cultural stops and picturesque landscapes, making it a memorable conclusion to your Bhutan adventure.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Dochu La Pass: A Himalayan Panorama

Experience: Depart early in the morning for the 3-4 hour drive back to Paro, stopping once again at the Dochu La Pass.
Views: Enjoy the stunning vistas of the Himalayan peaks, prayer flags, and chortens, all bathed in the soft morning light.

2. Thimphu Weekend Market

Experience: Arrive in Thimphu in time to explore the bustling weekend market, a vibrant hub of local life.
Highlights: Browse through stalls selling fresh produce, handicrafts, and traditional Bhutanese goods, and interact with friendly locals.

3. Tamchog Lhakhang: The Iron Bridge Temple

Location: On the way back to Paro, visit Tamchog Lhakhang, a temple built by Thangtong Gyalpo, the 14th-century saint known as the “Iron Bridge Builder.”
Significance: Thangtong Gyalpo introduced the art of building suspension bridges with iron chains, and the only way to reach his temple is by crossing one of these historic bridges.
Experience: Capture the photogenic bridge and explore the temple, learning about its fascinating history.

4. Scenic Drive to Uma Paro

Route: The final leg of your journey takes you alongside the Pa Chhu River, through apple orchards, rice paddies, and past quaint homesteads.
Arrival: Return to Uma Paro, your luxurious Himalayan retreat, where you’ll check in and receive a warm welcome.

5. Relaxation and Traditional Dinner

Afternoon: Spend the rest of the day relaxing at Uma Paro, enjoying the property’s facilities, or trying your hand at archery, Bhutan’s national sport.
Evening: Visit Farmer Tshering’s smallholding for a traditional Bhutanese dinner. Depending on the season (June or November), you’ll witness either rice plantation or harvest activities, offering a unique glimpse into rural Bhutanese life.

Today, embark on an early morning adventure to Chele La Pass, the highest road pass in Bhutan at 3,988 meters. This scenic drive and hike offer unparalleled views, spiritual encounters, and unique photographic opportunities, making it a highlight of your Bhutan journey.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Scenic Drive to Chele La Pass

Experience: Wind your way up 35 kilometers through blue pine and rhododendron forests, ascending to the breathtaking Chele La Pass.
Views: On a clear day, enjoy sweeping vistas of Mt. Jhomolhari (7,314 meters), Bhutan’s second-highest peak, and the surrounding Himalayan range.
Cultural Significance: The pass is adorned with prayer flags and has been featured in Bhutanese films and fashion shoots, adding to its allure.

2. Hike to Kila Goemba: An Ancient Nunnery

Trail: From the pass, embark on a moderate hike down through a rhododendron forest to Kila Goemba, an ancient nunnery.
Experience: This serene and rarely visited site offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to interact with the nuns, gaining insight into their spiritual practices.

3. Dzongdrakha Goemba: A Hidden Gem

Location: Time permitting, drive further down the mountain and walk to the Dzongdrakha Goemba complex, another secluded spiritual site.
Experience: Pay your respects, make offerings, and capture the beauty of this hidden gem, which is seldom visited by foreigners.

4. Archery Demonstration at Uma Paro

Return: Back at Uma Paro, your guides will be dressed in their finest traditional costumes (gho for men and kira for women) for an archery demonstration.
Experience: Capture the action as they showcase Bhutan’s national sport, offering a unique cultural and photographic opportunity.

Today, immerse yourself in the cultural and spiritual heart of Paro with visits to ancient temples, local schools, and artisan centers. This day offers a perfect blend of meaningful interactions, cultural discovery, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable conclusion to your Bhutan adventure.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Kyichu Lhakhang: A Sacred Ancient Temple

Location: Just a few kilometers north of Paro, Kyichu Lhakhang is one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples.
Significance: This sacred site is connected to the famous Jokhang Temple in Lhasa and is home to a magic orange tree that bears fruit year-round.
Experience: Witness the comings and goings of worshippers, capturing the devotion and serenity that make this temple a photographer’s dream.

2. Visit to a Local School

Experience: Nearby, we’ve arranged a visit to a local school, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet the children and participate in a special project.
Activity: Hand out disposable cameras to the students, encouraging them to document their daily lives. This initiative not only fosters creativity but also provides a unique perspective on Bhutanese culture.
Interaction: Engage with the students and teachers, gaining insight into Bhutan’s education system and the lives of its younger generation.

3. Paro Weavers Centre: A Celebration of Craftsmanship

Experience: After the school visit, head to the Paro Weavers Centre, where skilled artisans create intricate textiles using traditional techniques.
Photography: Capture the vibrant colors and meticulous craftsmanship that define Bhutanese weaving, and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir.

4. Free Time at Uma Paro

Relaxation: The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Relax around Uma Paro, taking in the peaceful surroundings and reflecting on your journey.
Optional Activities: Explore more photography opportunities in Paro, enjoy a spa treatment, or simply unwind with a good book.

Today, embark on one of the most iconic and unforgettable experiences in Bhutan: a hike to the legendary Taktsang Goemba, or Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Perched precariously on a cliffside 900 meters above the Paro Valley, this sacred site is a testament to Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and architectural ingenuity.

Highlights of Your Day

1. Early Morning Hike to Tiger’s Nest

Experience: Begin your day with an early morning start to avoid the heat and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The two-hour climb to the Tiger’s Nest viewpoint is a journey through lush forests and along winding trails, offering breathtaking views of the valley below.
Legend: According to legend, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) landed here on the back of a flying tigress, bringing Buddhism to Bhutan. This sacred site is a place of deep spiritual significance.
Ascent: Descend steeply and then climb up to the monastery, passing a picturesque waterfall and entering through the main gates, adorned with intricate murals.

2. Exploration of Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Experience: Explore the monastery’s sacred halls, prayer rooms, and balconies, each offering stunning views and a sense of tranquility.
Optional Hike: If time and energy allow, continue further up to several remote temples and monasteries, offering even more opportunities for reflection and photography.

3. Return to Uma Paro: Relaxation and Rejuvenation

Afternoon: Return to Uma Paro in the afternoon, where you can unwind and relax.
Facilities: Enjoy the lodge’s luxurious amenities, including steam rooms, a swimming pool, or a traditional Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath followed by a soothing massage.

4. Farewell Dinner: A Memorable Conclusion

Evening: As the sun sets, join us for a firelit farewell dinner in the courtyard or at the Bukhari restaurant. Reflect on your journey and celebrate the memories you’ve created in Bhutan.

Today, it’s time to bid a fond farewell to the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan. An early morning flight will take you back to Singapore, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Highlights of Your Departure

1. Seamless Transfers

Experience: Enjoy a smooth and comfortable transfer to Paro Airport in a private vehicle. Our team will ensure that your departure is as seamless as your arrival, allowing you to relax and reflect on your journey.

2. Lasting Memories

Reflection: As you travel to the airport, take in the final views of Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes and reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had. From the spiritual serenity of the Tiger’s Nest to the vibrant culture of Thimphu and Paro, your time in Bhutan will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

3. Until Next Time

Farewell: While this may be the end of your current journey, it’s only the beginning of your love affair with Bhutan. We look forward to welcoming you back on another Bhutan Luxury Tour, where new adventures and discoveries await.