DOCSLIB.ORG

Western Bhutan

Total Page：16

File Type：pdf, Size：1020Kb

Download full-text PDF Read full-text
Western Bhutan © Lonely Planet Publications 119 W e s t e r n B h u t a n Whether you arrive by air at Paro or by road at Phuentsholing, your first impression of Bhutan is one of stepping into a world that you thought existed only in storybooks or your imagination. Vertical prayer flags flutter in the breeze and men dressed in a traditional gho WESTERN BHUTAN (tunic) and Argyle socks stroll past yellow-roofed shrines and wooden slate-roofed houses. It soon becomes clear that you are well off the beaten path of mass tourism. As with the rest of country, western Bhutan is a collection of valleys. The remote Haa valley in the far west is separated from the Paro valley by the 3810m Cheli La. The relatively built-up Thimphu valley to the east is divided from the historical centres of Punakha and Wangdue Phodrang by the 3140m Dochu La. East of here the rugged Black Mountain range forms an even greater barrier that separates western Bhutan from the rest of the country. North of here, the upper valleys are trekking territory, leading to the sacred peak of Jhomolhari, the Tibetan border and the fascinating and remote regions of Laya and Gasa. To the south are the lush foothills and the all-important road to the Indian border at Phuentsholing. This is the region of Bhutan that most tourists see and for good reason. It’s the heartland of the Drukpa people, home to the only airport, the capital and the largest, oldest and most spectacular dzongs in the kingdom. Whether it’s the beginning of your trip or the all of your trip, it’s a spectacular introduction to a magical land. HIGHLIGHTS Visit the spectacular dzongs of Paro ( p122 ), Wangdue Phodrang ( p149 ) and Punakha ( p145 ). Admire the rhododendrons and mountain views on an early-morning drive to the Dochu La ( p134 ) Immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture and history at Paro’s National Museum ( p124 ) Spot black-necked cranes or just do some great hiking in the remote Phobjikha valley ( p152 ) Hike uphill to the dramatic cliff-hanging Tiger’s Nest ( p128 ), Bhutan’s most famous Punakha sight Tiger's Nest Chimi Lhakang Kyichu Lhakhang Wangdue Phodrang Make a pilgrimage to the Kyichu Dochu Paro La Phobjikha Lhakhang ( p127 ), one of Bhutan’s oldest Haa Valley Valley and most beautiful temples Explore little-visited monasteries and hermitages in the Haa valley ( p133 ) Be blessed with a 10-inch penis, if only for a day, at Chimi Lhakhang ( p145 ), the monastery of the Divine Madman! 120 WESTERN BHUTAN lonelyplanet.com WESTERN BHUTAN C H I N A T I B E T Wagye La Ya La Masang Gang Teri Gang (5475m) (7165m) (7300m) (6090m) Tsenda Gangchhenta Gang (6840m) (7100m) (6965m) Tseja Gang Tsomo La (6833m) Gangla Laya Togtsherkhagi Chhu Keche Karchung La La Gieu Gang Sinche Army Post (7200m) La Tang Chhu Chhu Bahitung Chhu Koina Jhari La Bari La Mo Chhu Gasa G A S A WESTERN BHUTAN Gasa Tsachhu Tserim Kang (6789m) Goyul I N D I A Jichu Drakye (6989m) Kang Lingzhi Bum ( S I K K I M ) Jhomolhari 2 (6942m) Damji (6526m) Si Chhu Jhomolhari (7314m) Nyile La (5661m) Jangothang Tashithang Yeli La P U N A K H A Thangthangka Bhonte T H I M P H U Khamsum Yuelley Tremo La La Wang Chhu Namgyal P A R O Chorten Rimchhu Mo ChhuPho Chhu Dawakha Thombu La Yambesa Zele La Shing Karap Cheri Goemba (5672m) Tango Goemba Punakha Dodina Paro Chhu Gunitsawa Do Chhu Talo Goemba Khuruthang Pangri Zampa Chumbi Valley Dalay Goemba Chimi Dechenchoeling Thinleygang Lhakhang Phajoding Hongtsho Metshina Lobesa Drukgyel Dzong Rinchengang Chhuzomsa Gom La Taktshang Jili THIMPHU Dochu La Dzong (3140m) Lungchuzekha Wangdue Yatung Chhundu Kyichu Simtokha Dzong Goemba Phodrang Chhu Paro Namseling Trashigang Lhakhang Goemba Tashila arpo Punak Damthang Gida Bondey Shaba Talakha Goemba Juneydrak Khasadrapchhu Hitsho Chhu Nathu-La Kharibje Langm Talakha Tsang Haa Cheli La (3810m) Isuna Tamchhog Lhakhang Peak Sinche La Chhu Amo Chhu (4280m) Jyenkhana Chhuzom Genekha Doka La H A A Nago Dobji Dzong Bietakha Tshongkha Panyalabtsa Gayshina Thadra Ney Lhakhang Chapcha Lana Chhu Haa Chhu Tanalung Bunakha S A M T S E Torsa Chhu Wang Chhu D A G A N A Jaldakha Chhu Jaldakha Tsimasham Dagana Dungna Chhukha Daga Chhu Sibsu Dorokha C H H U K H A Torsa Chhu Dagapela Chengmari Gedu Jumja Samtse Tala Phuentsholing Rinchending Chhu Raigye Chhu Puna Tsang Jaigon Kharbandi Goemba I N D I A Sinchula ( W E S T B E N G A L ) To Siliguri; Darjeeling Kalikhola.
Load more

Recommended publications
  • Survey Report on the Protection of Cultural Heritage in the Kingdom of Bhutan
    Japan Consortium for International Cooperation in Cultural Heritage 2009 International Cooperation Survey Survey Report on the Protection of Cultural Heritage in the Kingdom of Bhutan March 2011 Japan Consortium for International Cooperation in Cultural Heritage 報告書(英文）110701最終版_島田.indd 0001 2011/07/25 15:46:01 Contents Introduction 1 Forward 2 Preface 1.Overview of the Survey 5 （1）Purpose and members of the Survey 6 （2）Reasons for survey in Bhutan 7 （3）Cultural Heritage in Bhutan ① Uniqueness of Bhutan from the Viewpoint of Cultural Heritage ② Types of Cultural Heritage in Bhutan 10 （4）Survey Method 2.Overview of the Cultural Heritages Sites Visited 12 （1） Temples 16 （2） Dzongs 28 （3） Other Structures 28 （4） A Bhutanese Festival (Intangible Cultural Heritage) 3.Discussion 37 （1） Summary of Field Survey 45 （2） Potential for Cooperation in the Field of Cultural Heritage Protection 49 （3） Conclusion 4.Survey Records 53 （1） List of Interviewees 54 （2） Record of Action 59 （3） Notes from Interviews 76 （4） Survey Photos 報告書(英文）110701最終版_島田.indd 001 2011/07/25 15:46:01 Introduction Forward The present report is the result of a survey conducted in Bhutan by the Japan Consortium for International Cooperation in Cultural Heritage (hereinafter referred to as “the JCIC”) as part of its research on partner countries for international cooperation. The surveys, which are among the primary activities of the JCIC, are for the purpose of collecting basic data in order to determine potential fi elds of cooperation, and their feasibility, in partner countries, thus contributing to the promotion of international cooperation.
    [Show full text]
  • 7 DAYS WESTERN BHUTAN TRANQUILITY BT7WBG 13/Jan/2020 to 30/Sep/2021
    7 DAYS WESTERN BHUTAN TRANQUILITY BT7WBG 13/Jan/2020 to 30/Sep/2021 TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Highlights Thimphu Kuenselphodrang Nature Park Buddha Dordenma Statue National Memorial Chorten Centenary Farmers Market Tashichho Dzong Post office Weaving centre Simply Bhutan visit with local rice wine and archery Changangkha Lhakhang Afternoon tea with handmade cookies at Amankora Resort Bhutanese craft bazaar Norzin Lam Punakha Dochula Pass Druk Wangyal Chortens The Himalayas Sopsokha Village Chimi Lhakhang Punakha Dzong Punakha Suspension Bridge Paro Bhutanese heritage farmhouse Kyichu Lhakhang Drugyel Dzong Chelela Pass Paro and Haa Valleys Ta Dzong Rinpung Dzong Taktsang Lhakhang D1 SINGAPORE – PARO – THIMPHU Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport for your flight to Paro. Upon arrival, proceed to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Proceed to Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, where you can catch a panoramic view of Thimphu Valley and admire the 169-foot-tall bronze Buddha Dordenma Statue, the largest statue in the country. Proceed to the National Memorial Chorten, a stupa built to honour the late 3rd King Dorji Wangchuck. Visit the Centenary Farmer’s Market, a weekend market famous for its agricultural products. Next, visit Tashichho Dzong, which houses the throne of the King of Bhutan. Meals on board/Lunch/Dinner D2 THIMPHU In the morning, stop at the local post office, where you can get personalised stamps at your own expense. Continue to a weaving centre that produces handwoven textiles and watch skilled weavers at work. Next, visit Simply Bhutan, a living museum whose primary aim is to conserve the culture and customs of traditional Bhutanese life. Visitors get to taste a local rice wine, or ara, and try out archery, Bhutan’s National Sport, during their visit.
    [Show full text]
  • Itinerary Land of the Thunder Dragon Paro – Thimpu – Punakha – Paro Tour Code – CT SPDY 6 Nights – 07 Days
    Itinerary Land of the Thunder Dragon Paro – Thimpu – Punakha – Paro Tour Code – CT SPDY 6 nights – 07 days The work of J. R. R. Tolkiens is world famous as a fictional account of magical lands, mystical black mountains, dragons & Kings. Very few know that there is a land where such things are very much real and a part of everyday life. A land whose people call it “Druk – yul” or Land of the Thunder Dragon, a kingdom ruled by a Dragon King, who wears a raven crown. A land of mystical valleys resounding with magic, tranquility and happiness, complete with black mountains and sacred peaks which touch the skies. We invite you to a magical experience in this land, where even in this modern world happiness is given more importance, a world which moves with its own unique pace towards a better and more serene existence. We invite you to visit the Kingdom of Bhutan Creative Travel | [email protected] | page 1 Day 1: Arrive Paro – Thimpu Arrive at Paro International Airport. Welcome on arrival & Transfer to Thimpu. Afternoon visit King’s memorial Chorten and Trashichhoedzong Stay Overnight at the hotel Arrive at Paro International Airport. Our representative will introduce to the vehicle for an interesting 1 ½ hrs drive through scenic Himalayan countryside to your hotel in Thimphu, the modern capital of the Kingdom. Welcome to the Kingdom of Bhutan! Many eastern classics and books of wisdom have referred to the Himalayas as the abode of gods and home to the immortals, resulting in visits to this country by a great many saints, mystics, scholars and pilgrimswho blessed this land and its people with an invaluable spiritual and cultural legacy that has shaped every facet of Bhutanese lives.
    [Show full text]
  • A Cultural and Historical Adventure: Hiking in Vietnam and Bhutan October 8-22, 2018
    In Partnership with Asia Academic Experience, LLC A CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL ADVENTURE: HIKING IN VIETNAM AND BHUTAN OCTOBER 8-22, 2018 Ann Highum and Jerry Freund are ready to travel again with a group of adventuresome and curious people, in 2018. They are anxious to share their love for SE Asia and its people, culture, history and natural beauty. Bhutan and Vietnam are fascinating countries--safe for travel, culturally fascinating, and historically important. Bhutan, famous for its “happiness index” has been open for tourism for many years, but not so welcoming. They are working to change that, and since their tourism industry is now highly regulated and well managed, our colleague Lana has negotiated a fascinating tour. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to offer this tour to hardy souls who want a unique adventure in both the northern part of Vietnam and then in Bhutan. There will, of course, be a focus on learning on this tour, with local guest speakers and excellent local guides who will share their knowledge about each country with the group. The tour is also based on taking hikes in remarkable areas, interacting with different ethnic tribes to learn about their customs and cultures, staying in guesthouses in small villages, and experiencing each country more fully than is possible in other tours. It is important to note that many of the hiking experiences will involve uneven terrain, long uphill climbs and up to 7 miles per hike. Altitude is also a factor, although the highest areas we would visit are in the range of 7-8000 feet.
    [Show full text]
  • Nepal & Bhutan
    Nepal & Bhutan Nepal & Bhutan 10 days | Kathmandu to Kathmandu PRIVATE TOUR: Combine two What's Included Day 1 : Kathmandu Welcome to Nepal and the start of your beautiful Himalayan Kingdoms • 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 6 dinners holiday! Pick up and complete a landing card in one magical tour. Enter the including dinner at a Nepali cultural on the plane or in the airport before you go serene and spiritual lands of Nepal evening through customs. Upon arrival you will be met and Bhutan, and experience the • 4 nights standard hotel in Kathmandu, 5 by our representatives and transferred to your nights standard hotel/lodges in Bhutan countries' rich histories and unique hotel where you will receive a welcome drink • Airport arrival and departure transfers cultural heritages. From the brightly and a briefing about your trip. Overnight - • Return economy class return flight Kathmandu coloured fluttering prayer flags of Kathmandu - Paro - Kathmandu Nepal to the elaborate traditional • Guided sightseeing of Kathmandu and Day 2 : Pashupatinath Temple dress of the Bhutanese, these Bhutan as detailed in the itinerary captivating lands cannot fail to • Services of local English speaking tour enchant. guides • All entrance fees to included sites and monuments HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS • Services of licensed Nepalese & Bhutanese English speaking tour guides Trip Highlights • All relevant transfers and transportation in • Kathmandu and the Kathmandu Valley - private vehicles Patan Durbar Square, Swayambhunath • Bhutan Visa fee and travel Permit Pagoda, Bodhnath Buddhist stupa and (excludes visa admin fee of USD$20 pp, Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in the various other temples and shrines payable upon arrival) Kathmandu Valley.
    [Show full text]
  • Exploring the Dragon Kingdom
    EXPLORING THE DRAGON KINGDOM The Essence of Bhutan 13 Nights and 14 Days No treks but plenty of good day hikes Day 1 BANGKOK TO PARO (8000 feet) Today is your flight to Bhutan. As we near Bhutan (and if the weather is clear), we can see the massive peaks of the eastern Himalaya, including Kanchenchunga (third highest mountain in the world) and Bhutan's holy mountain, Chomolhari. Once we’ve completed visa formalities we proceed through customs and immigration and meet our Bhutanese tour leader and drivers in the arrival gate. We drive for about 20 minutes to Zhiwaling Hotel where will be received with a Chipdrel Ceremony (an elaborate Traditional welcome procession). After settling into our comfortable hotel, we’ll drive a short distance up the valley to Drukyel Dzong, the ruined fortress that protected the Paro Valley from Tibetan armies during the 18th century. If the weather is clear, we might have a glimpse of the white pyramid of Chomolhari, rising over the end of the valley. Today being our first day, we will undergo this gentle 30 minutes hike around the ruined Dzong to acclimatize before we return to our hotel. By early evening we return to our hotel for a welcome dinner and a brief trip orientation session. Zhiwaling Hotel Day 2 PARO We have a full day to explore the Paro Valley. Our first stop in Paro is the Ta Dzong (National Museum), a circular fortress that once protected this valley from Tibetan invasion. The impressive watchtower can be seen above Paro Rimpung Dzong, and it commands sweeping views of the valley below.
    [Show full text]
  • Pdf Banco Mundial
    Estudios de Asia y África ISSN: 0185-0164 ISSN: 2448-654X El Colegio de México A.C. Rodríguez-Calles, Luis Breve historia de Bután. Una identidad y un horizonte común en torno a la felicidad como objetivo político Estudios de Asia y África, vol. 54, núm. 2, Mayo-Agosto, 2019, pp. 373-390 El Colegio de México A.C. DOI: 10.24201/eaa.v54i2.2434 Disponible en: http://www.redalyc.org/articulo.oa?id=58660239007 Cómo citar el artículo Número completo Sistema de Información Científica Redalyc Más información del artículo Red de Revistas Científicas de América Latina y el Caribe, España y Portugal Página de la revista en redalyc.org Proyecto académico sin fines de lucro, desarrollado bajo la iniciativa de acceso abierto ESTUDIOS DE ASIA Y ÁFRICA, VOL. 54, NÚM. 2 (169), 2019, PP. 373-390 ISSN 0185-0164 e-ISSN 2448-654X CULTURA Y SOCIEDAD https://dx.doi.org/10.24201/eaa.v54i2.2434 Breve historia de Bután. Una identidad y un horizonte común en torno a la felicidad como objetivo político A brief history of Bhutan. An identity and a common horizon around happiness as a political objective LUIS RODRÍGUEZ-CALLES* Resumen: Se hace un repaso histórico de los acontecimientos más re- levantes ocurridos en el territorio que ahora pertenece a Bután, en el periodo que llega a la instauración de una monarquía hereditaria a principios de siglo XX. En un cuadro se resumen esos acontecimien- tos. Así se pretende dar luz al periodo histórico más desconocido del país con objeto de complementar otros análisis académicos sobre la felicidad, el budismo y las particularidades del modelo de desarrollo en Bután.
    [Show full text]
  • 10-Day Thimphu Tshechu Festival Experience
    10-Day Thimphu Tshechu Festival Experience Downloaded on: 8 Oct 2021 Tour code: TTFE10 Tour type Tour Level: High level Tour Comfort: Standard Tour Period: 10 Days highlights tour details Watch locals dressed in fine ghos and kiras celebrating the On this 10-day tour, visit many of the historically significant chortens Thimphu Tshechu Festival and dzongs, some of which are architectural masterpieces or home to Visit Punakha Dzong, home to the sacred Rangjung Kharsapani priceless relics across Bhutan. The highlight of this trip is experiencing relic the Thimphu Tshechu, one of Bhutan's grandest festivals, which Drive through the Dochula Mountain Pass with stunning views of honours Guru Rimpoche, the saint who brought Buddhism to the the snowcapped Himalayas country. Immerse yourself in the ancient culture that's still alive and See Bhutan's national animal at the Takin Preserve well with two days of festivities watching dances performed by Soak in a traditional stone bath that is believed to heal the mind, elaborately costumed monks and laymen. body and soul Contact [email protected] www.diethelmtravel.com Copyright © Diethelm Travel Management Limited. All right reserved. 10-Day Thimphu Tshechu Festival Experience tour description Day 1 : PARO – ARRIVAL ( -/-/D) After arriving at the Paro International Airport, your guide will wait for you at the arrival terminal and traditionally welcome you by offering a ‘khadar’ or greeting scarf. After that, you will be escorted to your hotel, allowed to freshen up, and then taken for a short sightseeing tour around Paro. First, drive to see Rinpung Dzong, which was built in 1645 to defend the valley against Tibetan invaders.
    [Show full text]
  • Mar 21, 2018 Departure
    Mar 21, 2018 Departure FULL ITINERARY: Day 1: Depart USA Your exotic journey to Bhutan begins this evening as you check in for your flight to Bangkok, via Taipei. Day 2: En route Cross the International Dateline and lose a day en route to Thailand. You will recover this day on the return portion of your trip Day 3: Bangkok Accommodations: 1 night Chatrium Riverside, Bangkok. Included meals: Dinner. Late morning arrival in Bangkok, the bustling, captivating and fascinating capital of Thailand, situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River Our representatives will meet you upon arrival, assist with passport and customs formalities, and transfer you to your hotel Later, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant Day 4: Bangkok, Paro & Thimphu Accommodations: 2 nights Osel Hotel, Thimphu, Bhutan. Included meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Transfer to the airport to continue your journey to Paro, Bhutan via Druk Air After customs formalities, board your vehicle for the scenic drive to Thimphu Full Day Itinerary: Transfer to the airport to continue your journey to Paro, Bhutan via Druk Air. On a clear day, you may experience breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas. A representative will greet you upon arrival at Paro International Airport. After customs formalities, board your vehicle for the scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital city, passing through a bucolic landscape dotted with rice paddy fields, apple orchards, and quaint villages. Time permitting, enjoy a panoramic tour of Thimphu Valley upon arrival. Thimphu is situation at an elevation of 8,200 feet. On your way to Thimphu, make a stop at the Tachogang Temple, built in the 15th century by Thangtong Gyalpo, builder of many iron bridges in Bhutan.
    [Show full text]
  • Bhutan Yoga Journey
    Bhutan Yoga Journey 15th October – 24th October 2018 Beyond The Clouds has created this Yoga Journey for you to experience yoga in a variety of stunning locations across beautiful western Bhutan. On this ten night journey you will discover the well-preserved unique traditions of a country where Gross National Happiness is more important than economic growth! Step into this magical land with us whilst furthering your yoga practice. Our carefully planned tours show you Bhutan’s stunning natural environment, ancient Buddhist temples and friendly and hospitable local people. 9 night tour Departs: London, UK Price: US$ 4,995 (twin share) Single room supplement US$45 per night, subject to availability. Inclusions: ✓ International flights from London, UK to Bhutan ✓ 9 nights’ hotel accommodation (more luxurious in Paro and comfortable elsewhere) ✓ Transport by private luxury bus ✓ Bhutan visa, Bhutan government tourism royalties and local taxes ✓ All meals, mineral water, tea and coffee ✓ English speaking Bhutanese guide ✓ All entrance fees at monasteries and museums ✓ Internationally qualified yoga instructor and use of yoga mats Exclusions: Connecting flights/transport to London Heathrow All rights reserved - Beyond The Clouds Email: [email protected] www.beyondtheclouds.org.nz Stopover accommodation (in Kathmandu or Delhi, if required) Transit visa (if required) Comprehensive travel insurance (Visit our website to get a quote) Alcoholic or soft drinks Additional extra activities e.g. massage, hot stone baths Laundry Tips for guide and driver About this trip: Your Yoga Journey begins in Paro, home to Bhutan’s only international airport. Spend your first night in the stunning Paro Valley at a Bhutanese-style resort on the edge of a forest just outside the town.
    [Show full text]
  • Experience Bhutan: the Last Shangri – La Kathmandu - Paro - Thimpu - Punakha - Paro Trip Details
    Experience Bhutan: The Last Shangri – La Kathmandu - Paro - Thimpu - Punakha - Paro Trip Details Dates: November 5-November 10, 2021 (6 days 5 nights) Accommodations & Meals: As below Group Size: 15 Traveler Limit Difficulty: Moderate >>> 5 November – Arrive at Paro/Thimphu, Bhutan After breakfast in Kathmandu, transfer to the Airport to connect flight to Paro (1-hour flight). On arrival in Paro drive to Thimphu (1.5-hour drive). The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular in entire Himalayas. Upon arrival you will be met by our representative, and afterwards drive to Thimphu, the capital town of Bhutan with en-route stop at Chuzom, the confluence of Thimphu and Paro rivers. On arrival in Thimphu, check into the hotel (7611 ft / 2320 m). In the afternoon drive to visit Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang). Located at a short drive from Thimphu city center, visitors can get a good overview of the Thimphu valley from the Buddha point (Kuensel Phodrang). Accommodation: Hotel Kisa / Phuntsho Pelri / Similar Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner 6 November – Explore Thimphu Enjoy visit of Thimpu including following: National Library, Institute for Zorig Chusum, Textile Museum, and the Folk Heritage Museum. Lunch is followed by a city tour that includes: Memorial Chorten, and colorful handicrafts shops. Conclude the tour of the day with a visit of Trashichhoe Dzong, “fortress of the glorious religion”. This is the center of government and religion, site of monarch’s throne room and seat of Je Khenpo or Chief Abbot. Accommodation: Hotel Kisa / Phuntsho Pelri / Similar Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner 7 November - Thimpu to Punakha Drive to Punakha (3.5-hour drive) with a short stop at Dochula pass (10,105 ft / 3,080m) stopping briefly here to take in the view and admire the chorten, mani wall, and prayer flags which decorate the highest point on the road.
    [Show full text]
  • Download Brochure
    1 Culture Bhutan has a profound cultural diversity. With more than 80 percent of the country being Buddhists, the ways of the Buddhist practice has had a huge impact on the Bhutanese culture. The influence of Buddhism is very visible in the everyday life of the Bhutanese people. The country boasts of thousands of monasteries and the landscape is dotted with stupas, prayer wheels, prayer flags and many other insignias celebrating the Buddhist religion. The preservation of culture has always been accorded the highest of priorities and it was outlined as one of the four main pillars of the country’s unique development philosophy of Gross National Happiness. 2 © Ricardo Viana © Ricardo 3 is a religious festival that begins on the 10th day of the Tshechu Bhutanese calendar. During the festival, monks and laymen dances, folk dances, receive blessings and perform mask dances over a stretch socialize. Besides the religious dances and of three to five days in a temple or songs, atsaras are a major attraction during the monastery. The mask dances are tshechu. Atsaras usually don hilarious looking performed to commemorate the life of masks with large protruding noses and often Guru Padmasambhava and other great with a phallus dangling from the head. They Buddhist masters. signify enlightened wisdom and their acts are intended to cleanse the collective sin of Tshechus customarily conclude with the people gathered to witness the religious the unfurling of a Thongdrel (large dances. scroll painting) of Lord Buddha, Guru Rinpoche, Zhabdrung and other The festival is also an occasion for people to enlightened beings.
    [Show full text]