On board is the first-ever extensive aerial photography coverage of Bhutan’s tourist attractions
NGAWANG JAMPHEL | Thimphu
While there has been drone photography of some sites in the country, there never has been as extensive coverage of tourist attractions, both cultural and natural of Bhutan as a team of six international photographers are currently doing, due to be completed by the end of this September.
In partnership with the Department of Tourism, Original Bhutan Travels have engaged members of Amazing Aerial Agency, who have brought six of their world class photographers, both in conventional photography and drone photography, to Bhutan.
They are as of now actively engaged in documenting and photographing cultural as well as natural attractions of our country, going up to Bumthang from Paro (Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangduephodrang, Trongsa, Bumthang and Haa districts).
Besides providing world class photographs and materials for the Department of Tourism for their promotional efforts, these photographers will also be using their own personal as well as their publisher channels to promote our country, through their works presently being done.
All of them have received international and national recognitions and published and engaged by well-known publishers and media houses such as Conde Nast Travellers, National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, The Guardian, The Telegraph, among others.
The six professionals are Paul Prescott a French British, Ms. Agnieszka Wieczorek a Polish national, Fran Arnau a Spanish national, Michale Chlebek a German national, Kevin Pages a French national and a Singaporean national Teo Chin Leong.
While the Bhutanese hosts remain enamored with their skill in capturing and documenting the cultural and natural beauty of Bhutan, the photographers themselves expressed being enchanted by the Bhutan’s beauty and various other aspects.
Expressing having been impressed deeply all of them described Bhutan as one of the most authentic and welcoming places they have ever experienced.
Fran Arnau, a Catalan/Spanish photographer, was struck by the country’s balance between tradition and modernity:
“I’ve truly fallen in love with Bhutan. Even though the visit was short, the country feels incredibly authentic. Both the government and the people are deeply committed to preserving their culture and way of life. Thimphu, the capital, is still a very quiet, comfortable, and uncrowded city. For photography, it’s perfect — the landscapes and people are amazing, friendly, and open to sharing their lives with us.”
For Michael Chlebek from the Germany, it was the kindness of the Bhutanese people that made the strongest impression:
“The people here are so kind, it feels unique in the world. Photographing them is a real pleasure. When we launched our drones, children gathered around, excited to watch and eager to learn. That joy and curiosity made the experience unforgettable.”
Polish photographer Agnieszka Wieczorek reflected on the country’s atmosphere of peace and respect:
“I felt something very special when we landed. Everyone was kind, calm, and curious about us, but never pushy. You can photograph people and they feel comfortable with it — often even interested. But I believe drones must remain limited here. If there are too many in the future, Bhutan could lose the very authenticity that makes it so unique.”
For Kevin Pagès of France, Bhutan was a revelation:
“Before traveling, I did only basic research because I didn’t want to spoil the discovery. Experiencing the culture firsthand and being able to capture the country from above with a drone was incredible. It opens a new perspective on Bhutan, and hopefully these images will open people’s eyes to how special this place really is.”
The journey was led by Paul Prescott, CEO of Amazing Aerial, who has traveled to more than 50 countries but considers Bhutan one of the most remarkable:
“Bhutan is definitely one of the most mystical, calm, and authentic places I’ve been to. In today’s era of mass tourism, it’s inspiring to see a country and its leadership value culture and identity more than money and rapid development. Our mission at Amazing Aerial is to bring the world’s best aerial photographers to Bhutan and showcase its beauty through imagery that elevates the country’s story to a global audience.”
For Chin Leong Teo of Singapore, Bhutan was a shangri-la close to his heart:
“I travel to Bhutan often for work in my capacity as an airport consultant. This is my 13th visit to Bhutan, but perhaps the most special yet. Bhutan has incredible tourism potential. We are pleased to support Bhutan tourism marketing for the benefit of tourism stakeholders.”
The photographers unanimously agreed that Bhutan offers something rare in today’s world: authenticity, cultural depth, and a warm human connection. With their images, they hope to share not only the landscapes of Bhutan but also the spirit of its people.
“And we know for sure that they will impart such impressions, the love of Bhutan, authenticity, the beauty and what we are protecting to the world, through their work and channels” said Tsewang Rinchen, Managing Director, Original Bhutan Travels.
