Matt has been a professional photographer for 15 years, whose assignments have taken him to over 70 countries, all 7 continents, and across the Arctic and Antarctic circles. He specializes in travel, portrait, food, and interior photography, with assignments from magazines all over the world. Matt is often hired for his ability to tell the story of a location through his character portraits, richly shadowed landscapes, and dramatic interpretation of light.
He has a particular passion for Bhutan, with feature stories and images from the Himalayan nation published in Dwell, National Geographic Traveller, AFAR, DestinAsian, Conde Nast Traveller, Travel & Leisure, Terra Mater, Dossier, and more. Even His Majesty the King of Bhutan has been “very impressed” by Matt’s coverage of the less traveled areas of the country.
You can view his body of work at mattdutile.com, and further galleries of his images on Eastern Bhutan, Ogyen Choling, and the spiritual heartland of Bumthang.
Mr. Ugyen Chophel, hails from the culturally rich region of Eastern Bhutan. Growing up in a family immersed in business, he developed a keen understanding of the local economy and the traditional ways of life in Bhutan’s eastern region. His upbringing has endowed him with a deep connection to the customs, values, and landscapes that define this part of the country, making him an insightful resource for visitors exploring the area.
In addition to his business background, Ugyen often drives guests around, offering them not only a comfortable journey but also a wealth of knowledge about Bhutan’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty. His familiarity with the region’s terrain and hidden gems makes him an invaluable guide for travelers seeking an authentic experience in Bhutan. He is personable and has a warm demeanor, ensuring that guests feel welcomed and well-cared for during their travels.
Whether navigating the winding roads of Bhutan or sharing stories of his upbringing, Ugyen Chophel offers a unique blend of professionalism and personal touch, enriching the travel experience for those fortunate enough to journey with him.
Mr. Mani is a dedicated full-time schoolteacher at Samtse Lower Secondary School with a strong background in mathematics. He is a father of two and hails from the remote village of Phordung in Trashiyangtse, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Dongdichu Forest Management Unit.
Mr. Mani has a deep passion for birdwatching. He began documenting the avifauna of Samtse in 2014, and by 2017, he took a more systematic approach to this documentation. His efforts, alongside those of the Dragon Birding Amigos, culminated in the publication of “A Guide to the Birds of Samtse” in July 2020, featuring 271 bird species.
Additionally, Mr. Mani manages and regularly updates the webpage for Trogon Travels, sharing his knowledge and experiences with fellow bird enthusiasts and travelers alike. His dedication to both education and nature conservation reflects his diverse interests and commitments.
Mr. Kelzang Namgyal, born in the remote and scenic village of Merak, is a certified local guide with over a decade of experience. After completing his 5th standard in 1995, Kelzang developed a deep connection with his homeland, the highlands of Merak-Sakteng, known for their pristine beauty and unique culture. In 2010, he became a certified guide and has since led more than 100 tour groups through this rugged yet enchanting region.
Kelzang’s extensive knowledge of the local geography, flora, fauna, and weather conditions makes him an invaluable companion for trekkers and travelers seeking to explore the region’s natural wonders. More importantly, his understanding of the Brokpa community, to which he belongs, is unparalleled. He excels in explaining the distinct lifestyle, traditions, and customs of the Brokpas, a semi-nomadic people known for their yak herding and vibrant cultural practices. Kelzang’s personal stories and intimate insights into Brokpa festivals, attire, and rituals offer tourists an authentic and enriching experience. His dedication to sharing his heritage, combined with his professionalism, has earned him a stellar reputation among visitors looking to explore Bhutan’s hidden gems.
Mr. Kinga is a seasoned professional driver with over 19 years of extensive experience behind the wheel. His long-standing career in the transportation industry has been marked by reliability, safety, and an unwavering commitment to service. Throughout his journey, Mr. Kinga has driven over 500 guests from diverse backgrounds across the country, delivering not just a ride but a comfortable and memorable travel experience. His deep knowledge of routes, local customs, and geography makes him an excellent guide as well as a driver, ensuring that his passengers enjoy seamless trips, whether they’re visiting urban landmarks or exploring remote, scenic areas.
With his calm demeanor and exceptional driving skills, Mr. Kinga has earned the trust and respect of his passengers, many of whom commend his punctuality, professionalism, and warm hospitality. Safety is always his top priority, and his years of experience have made him adept at handling all types of road conditions and challenges. Whether it’s navigating busy city streets or winding rural roads, Mr. Kinga’s expertise shines through, making him a highly dependable and well-regarded driver.