Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Trongsa to Bumthang Dear Readers: We start the day driving over yet another mountain pass. The views are completely captivating, and the traffic is light as always. The roads are not really two lanes, and I wonder how many cars plunge over unprotected curves every year. We walk the last kilometer or so to the top of the pass to stretch our legs, and then head into the Bumthang province of Bhutan toward the city of Jakar where our hotel is located. There is a general sense of jubilation today, as the favorite party (The Bird Party) has won the election for the lower house of parliament yesterday in a landslide victory. One village we pass through is having an archery competition between the elders and the young men. We spend quite a bit of time watching and talking with the people. Everywhere in this country, people are happy to talk with you and to let you take their photo. The other wonderful thing is that everyone who has ever attended school can speak English, as that is the language in which all classes are taught.
We spend a few minutes shopping in Jakar, then go to lunch at a restaurant which serves the most delicious gingered carrots among other dishes. Then we visit a series of the most important temples and monasteries in the country. They do all run together in the mind after a while, but the impression that remains is the spirit of each. Our guide gives us a detailed explanation of the act of prostration that he performs each time he enters a temple. To the western mind it looks like idol worship, but he gives a clear differentiation of what is actually going on in a Buddhist's mind and heart as he performs the rituals. Our hotel is the Swiss Guesthouse, a charming little property overlooking the Jakar valley. Dinner is delicious, and there is a slow internet connection where I can check emails. Another wonderful day in paradise!
Hugs, Dan More thumbnails ...
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