Photo of the Day: Ancient Bhutan
There’s a feeling that you get in Bhutan that the country is ancient. The buildings are old (and even when restored still look old) and traditions run deep. Bumthang, near the center of the country is considered the region where Buddhism was born in Bhutan and thus has a number of (yes, ancient) temples and monasteries. These photos are from the Bumthang area.
This temple is from the 17th century and is one of three clustered in an area that hosts a festival each year, including the naked dance festival!
Gongs like this one are used to announce to the monks that it’s time for them to congregate in the main temple for chanting or for some other important event.
Prayer wheels are ubiquitous in Bhutan. As you walk by, you are to turn it, always clockwise, and by doing so you are sending good prayers into the wind and to other people. Isn’t that fantastic? With just a little “intention” and the turn of a wheel we can send good wishes to others.
If you’re interested in going to Bhutan, I have two tours going there this fall! The first is a photography tour with former National Geographic photographer, Natalie Fobes, and the other is a trekking tour to a very remote and little-visited area in Eastern Bhutan. AND, I’ve just announced a yoga tour to Bhutan in April, 2011!
See more lovely photos at DeliciousBaby’s Photo Friday!
Travel Well!
Beth
Related links:
Bhutan Photo Tour
Bhutan Trekking Tour
Bhutan Yoga Tour
Bhutan Photo Gallery
5 comments
As always, beautiful photos. Some day I’ll get to join you in a visit to Bhutan. I swear.
Beth, these are some of your most exquisite photos. They just get better and better. You make me feel as if I’m right there with you…and some day I will be. Thanks so much, Meg
Beautiful shots! I love the fact that the buildings have been left “as is” and not restored to look shiny and new.
I also appreciate the fact that the buildings are left with the patina of age and character
gorgeous photos!!