Visually astounding and culturally fascinating, Bhutan is unique in a world that seems to grow more homogenous with each passing day. It is a country of almost surreal natural beauty, graced with a traditional culture deeply rooted in Buddhist values and practice. The government refers to the “Gross National Happiness” of the country as a more important measure of progress than the GNP.

David Samuel Robbins guides photographers interested in developing a more distinctive, personal style of imagery in the travel genre. Our extended journey (12 full days in the country) allows us to experience Bhutan’s many charms. Touring through more than half the breadth of the country, we visit the most prominent dzongs (ancient fortress-monasteries), and take frequent, easy-to-moderate day hikes to rural villages and hilltop temples where millennia-old Tibetan Buddhist rituals continue unchanged. The schedule includes daily feedback and critiques.