Friday 19 October
We set off at 0900 and joined the queue of cars slowly making their way to festival at the local monastery. It had not been clear that there was a festival but there was. It was in a small monastery and was centred on the courtyard. Given its hillside location the crowds and us were perched on the grass in a natural auditorium. The local dignitaries were mainly in a tent on one side of the courtyard.
The ceremony was a series of dances with ritual and religious significance and the crowd rose to the occasion. It was truly festive and many a photo opportunity in the sun.
Finally we made our way back to the car for an afternoon hike but first lunch by a stupa and as it was a holiday over the road the local builders who were preparing our destination were having the day off and playing Bhutanese darts. Which involves throwing a missile 20 meters to hit a target. A hit is accompanied by a celebratory dance and alcohol. Not sure how the aim improves over the course of the afternoon.
After a short drive we began our climb to the Tango University which is a monks training centre. It was not too strenuous and at the top was a collection of temples and a helpful monk who was happy to chat.
Today was Stuart’s birthday so as a special treat dinner had been arranged at the Folk Museum - Bhutanese style. But first the birthday cake appeared. It was a jolly affair - red rice, cheesy potatoes, air dried bacon - you know the menu !
We set off at 0900 and joined the queue of cars slowly making their way to festival at the local monastery. It had not been clear that there was a festival but there was. It was in a small monastery and was centred on the courtyard. Given its hillside location the crowds and us were perched on the grass in a natural auditorium. The local dignitaries were mainly in a tent on one side of the courtyard.
The ceremony was a series of dances with ritual and religious significance and the crowd rose to the occasion. It was truly festive and many a photo opportunity in the sun.
Finally we made our way back to the car for an afternoon hike but first lunch by a stupa and as it was a holiday over the road the local builders who were preparing our destination were having the day off and playing Bhutanese darts. Which involves throwing a missile 20 meters to hit a target. A hit is accompanied by a celebratory dance and alcohol. Not sure how the aim improves over the course of the afternoon.
After a short drive we began our climb to the Tango University which is a monks training centre. It was not too strenuous and at the top was a collection of temples and a helpful monk who was happy to chat.
Today was Stuart’s birthday so as a special treat dinner had been arranged at the Folk Museum - Bhutanese style. But first the birthday cake appeared. It was a jolly affair - red rice, cheesy potatoes, air dried bacon - you know the menu !