Buddhist Bhutan
Bhutan is Buddhist country. Prayer flags, stupas, monastaries and monks are everywhere.
The Himalayan pass of Dochula, between Punakha and Thimphu, is home to this collection of 108 stupas (above), recently built by the government for the "peace and prosperity of the nation." The number 108 has spiritual significance in many religions, especially Buddhism and Hinduism.
At 10,000 feet (3200 meters), Dochula Pass gives a spectacular view of the eastern Himalayan mountain range.
Thousands of colorful prayer flags flutter in the breeze. It is believed that prayers written on the flags are carried up into the sky by the wind. Flags usually come in the five primary colors, which symbolize space, air, fire, water, and earth.
Another kind of prayer flag, with the Himalayas in the background.
Above and below, Buddhist monks at a monastery in Punakha. They were practicing chanting their lessons when we arrived.
Child monks catching falling autumn leaves. It is considered good luck to catch a leaf before it hits the ground!
Thanks,Basia, for the wonderful pictures. Aren't the monk-lets beautiful?
That was so enlightening, thank you. It amazes me how such a "faith"
actually works into today. I never knew that "junior" monks were
"monk-lets!"
I love the one of the young boy trying to catch a falling leave. I think
I'll try that. Leaves are just starting to fall in TX.
Love the leaf-falling picture. I think it's the hallmark of a very good
photographer to catch not only permanent structures and landscapes well,
but also these little unexpected events such as Bhutanese boy monks trying
to catch a leaf. Takes awareness and readiness, and a steady hand when you
know one little mistake will make you miss the opportunity. Well done. I
also love your chili roof picture below. Excellent crop. My only problem is
that now I have to figure out how I can get to expensive Bhutan on my very
limited budget... hmmm, grumble grumble.
Pictures work best to let people see with their eyes, words best with their
imagination and curiosity.