After
breakfast in the hotel, drive to Drukgyel Dzong, a ruined
fortress where Bhutanese warriors fought Tibetan invaders
centuries ago. The snowy dome of sacred Chomolhari, "mountain
of goddess" looms directly over the dzong. Along the
way, see the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108
temples built in the Himalayas by Tibetan King, Songtsen
Gampo. This temple reflects the introduction of Buddhism
in Bhutan
After
lunch, visit to Ta Dzong, originally built as watch tower,
now houses National Museum of the Kingdom. It boasts antique
thangkha, textiles, weapons & armour, household objects
and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts.
Then walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong, meaning
fortress of the heap of jewels' which has a long and fascinating
history. Along the wooden galleries lining the courtyard
of the Rinpung Dzong are fine wall paintings illustrating
Buddhist lore such as four friends, the old man of long
life, the wheel of life, scenes from the of Milarepa, Mount
Sumeru and other cosmic mandala.
After that proceed to Thimphu, the capital town of Bhutan.The
road leads through the Paro valley to the confluence of
Paro and Thimphu rivers at chuzom ( confluence ). Three
differrent style of chortens adorn the confluence. A short
way beyond, on the left, is Tschogang Lhakhang, the temple
of the hill of excellent horse. It is private temple, built
in 15th century, as the result of visitation from Balaha,
the excellent horse, a manifestation of Chenrezig, the compassionate
Buddha. After the narrow, rock lined section of the road
opens up as Thimphu approaches, Simtokha Dzong lies enroute.
Simtokha means the place of profound tantric teaching',
this dzong now houses a school for the study of the Dzongkha
language. On arrival in Thimphu, check into the hotel. |