We left Paro to travel east to wilder parts of Bhutan. We spent the night in Dochula Pass - home of 108 temples (chortens). The eldest wife of the fourth king built this temple, Dochula Lankang, in honor of her husband and all of his accomplishments. It is one of the newer temples we have visited which was quite apparent by the artistry. Tomorrow we seek … [Read more...] about Day 4 – Dochula Pass
Travel
Tiger’s Nest
Yesterday we hiked to the sacred Tiger's Nest. This high mountain monastery is located above Paro and the belief is Guru Rinpoche rode a dakini tigress into Bhutan in the 15th century. He brought Buddhism to the country and today all Bhutanese hike to the Tiger's Nest at least once in there lifetime. Everyone did great! We depart this morning for Dochula … [Read more...] about Tiger’s Nest
The group arrives from Bangkok
The flight arrives on time from Bangkok. Benj and Kinlay greet the group wearing ghos, the traditional dress for men. After everyone gets their luggage, we head to the Paro Dzong - the spiritual and government center of the district. It was a beautiful day and everyone feels quite happy in this land of happiness. Catherine Shill The Hole Hiking … [Read more...] about The group arrives from Bangkok
Bhutan Blog 11/1/12
Today we decide to scout a new hike for next year’s trip, a few miles north of and high above of the capital. Our destination is the Dodedrak Institute of Buddhism, accessible only by foot or horse. The trail rises steeply through a coniferous forest for about 1800 feet on a south-facing slope, and the Institute’s small enclave of buildings appear suddenly … [Read more...] about Bhutan Blog 11/1/12
From Thimphu today
I have to pinch myself at least twice a day... am I really back in Bhutan after a year and a half of dreaming about it? It feels like a dream, partly because the weather has been so perfect, and so many familiar faces and places surround me. Today, Cathy and I and our guide Kinlay met with some officials at the office of tourism, and discussed the potential … [Read more...] about From Thimphu today