Thimphu: the capital of all capitals

Being Bhutan’s major city, there is a lot more movement going on, and naturally there are more sights to see. When we were there we were lucky enough to join one of the greatest festivals in Bhutan at the Tashichho Dzong. As I mentioned before, these festivities are an amazing experience. Days filled with coloured clothing, music, dancing and laughter. Young and old, high abbots and woodworkers all come together to enjoy the stories of their history translated in expressive movements and songs.

Like every respectable capital city, Thimphu has a few universities. But the one that captured my attention the most was the Tango University. A little while outside the centre, on top of another hill, monks study Buddhism. Once again there is some karma building involved when visiting this little campus, as it is quite a climb.

Recently the monks have renewed the path and added signs with parts of the Dharmasala in English, which make the walk very enjoyable. An inspiring talk with one of the students or teachers will give you a little insight into this vast religion and will give you enough material to think about for the hike downhill.

One last thing you cannot miss on your trip to the capital is the Buddha Dordenma; the Giant Golden Buddha. On top of another hill, this time accessible by car, sits a serenely smiling Buddha gleaming in the sunlight. When we were in Thimphu (about a year ago), they were still working hard to put the finishing touches tot he surroundings. But apart from the obvious signs of construction, there is a great view of the valley of Thimphu.

As you leave the capital you will most probably make a stop-over at the Dochhu La Pass. On this pass there are three must-sees.

First of all, the queen placed 108 stupa's here in a spiral as a memorial for the bloody battle that took place there. Then there is also a temple a little further with incredible artwork depicting Gautama Buddha's life with beautiful colours and details.

And if you're dubble lucky you'll see the third sight: the view. If it isn't too cloudy you'll be able to spot the tips of the Himalayas in the distance. I say double lucky because we past the pass twice and never saw Mount Everest. The first time it was cloudy where we where standing, and the second time the clouds hung over the mountains. So, good luck and you should in any case give it a try.

Stay tuned for more Bhutanese adventures...

Tweenie xo

Paro: entering the dragon’s layer

You will most probably initiate your trip in Paro, where the true adventure begins in the airplane. Entering the country via Kathmandu you will have an amazing view over the snowy tops of the Himalaya (if it isn’t too cloudy of course). Smoothly soaring in between the Bhutanese hills you’ll spot a small runway up ahead, not much wider or longer than the road running next to it. A regular pilot could never land on this runway with ease. But you’re dealing with the best pilots in the world here, so sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.

Paro is a great gateway to the country. Being the second largest city, it’s the perfect combination of both city and rural life. And of course it has lots more to offer than just an exciting entrance.

In the city centre sights like the national history museum and the first of many Dzongs will catch your eye. A Dzong, which is Dzongka for ‘fort’ is now split into part temple and part government’s office. In it’s own way it symbolises the perfect harmony between religion and politics realised here.

The main attraction however lays a little outside of the city, about an hours drive away. The Tiger’s Nest is built into the rocks at the peaks of a soaring hill. So, to reach it, you should prepare yourself for an hours climb. Half way through you can drink some tea, eat some cookies and enjoy the spectacular view of the nearing temple. There is a possibility to ride a donkey all the way up, but if you’re looking for some good karma, then I suggest you rely on your own strength.

When you finally get up close, you will understand why the Tiger’s Nest is considered Bhutan’s crown jewel. The legend goes that one of Guru Rinpoche’s manifestations flew to this rock formation on the back of a tiger to find solitude for meditation. At that time his face was visible on the rocks of the cave he meditated in for 3 years, 3 months, 3 weeks and 3 days. Buddhist believe that Guru Rinpoche’s face has gradually faded away over the years because visitors have degraded the spiritual value by disgracing the surrounding environment.

Once in the temple you soak in all the holiness and take a rest from your climb while enjoying the great view.

On your way down there is an opportunity to have lunch halfway and appreciate the last glances of the temple.

Stay tuned for a trip to the capital...

Lots of love

Tweenie xo