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Brief History Of Tachog Lhakhang The historic Buddhist temple Tachogang Lhakhang is located in the Paro district of Bhutan. It is thought to have been built in the thirteenth century by the Tibetan saint Thangtong Gyalpo. It can be found on the Paro Chhu river's left bank. The enormous and impressive temple is a striking example of traditional Bhutanese architecture. The temple is well-known for its intricate carvings and decorations, which make it one of the country's most important religious sites. Additionally, it attracts domestic and international tourists to its well-known tourist attractions. The ornate carvings and sculptures that adorn the walls and ceilings of the temple, as well as the vibrant paintings and tapestries that feature Buddhist symbols and motifs, can be observed by visitors as they stroll around the grounds of the temple. Inside the temple is the statue of Guru Rimpoche, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. Guru Rimpoche, according to legend, visited the area in the eighth century and left his footprints there. The Buddha, Padmasambhava, and Vajrapani, among others, are depicted in a number of significant statues and paintings. A mandala of Guru Rinpoche and a collection of sacred scriptures are among the important Buddhist relics housed in the temple. Thousands of devotees visit the temple each year to observe special rituals and pay their respects. The well-known Tachogang Festival, which takes place in December and honors Guru Rinpoche's legacy, is also held at the temple. Tachogang Lhakhang is an important part of Bhutan's history and a significant cultural and religious site. The temple's beautiful carvings, artwork, and sculptures serve as a reminder of Bhutan's spiritual and cultural history. It is a living example of the strength and resilience of the Bhutanese people. The Legend of Thangtong Gyalpo and the Spiritual Horse Balaha It is said that Thangtong Gyalpo was inspired to build the temple by a vision of a spiritual horse named Balaha. He is thought to have been the first to use heavy iron chains to build suspension bridges. His work had a big impact on how suspension bridges were built in Europe and Asia. The Architecture and Relics of Tachog Lhakhang Upon entering Tachog Lhakhang, you will be greeted by a stunning view of the Paro Chhu and the valleys that surround it. Relics like a statue of Lord Buddha, Zhabdrung, Guru Padmasambhava, and Chenrezig Avalokiteshvara are housed in the temple's main shrine. A walking stick belonging to Lam Thangtong Gyalpo and a stack of ancient books (Kangjur and Tenjur) are also on display. Cross the Ancient Iron Chain Bridge You will need to cross a traditional iron chain bridge that is 900 years old to get to the temple. This will give you an exciting experience. This bridge was constructed in 1420, but in 1969, a flood washed it away. However, in 2005, it underwent restoration. With its swaying and undulating movements, crossing this ancient bridge is an exhilarating experience. The Private Monastery and Tshechu Festival of Tachog Lhakhang The Tshechu Festival and the Private Monastery of Tachog Lhakhang Tachog Lhakhang is a private monastery run by Thangtong Gyalpo's descendants. Visitors can request a brief visit from the monks inside the temple. Beautiful apple and orange trees surround the temple, and the locals take care of rescued cattle. Every year, the monks gather at the temple for a tshechu (festival) to read the Kanjur and Tenjur for the benefit of all living things. Opportunities for Photography at Tachog Lhakhang If you're into photography, Tachog Lhakhang is a great place to take some stunning pictures. The Pa Chhu river, which flows nearby, and the temple's position at the base of a mountain provide a picturesque backdrop. Along the river, you can also see rafters enjoying themselves. In conclusion, anyone visiting Bhutan must pay a visit to Tachog Lhakhang. It is an unforgettable experience due to the history, architecture, and stunning location of the temple. Therefore, enter a world of spirituality, history, and beauty by crossing the ancient iron bridge. Tachogang Lhakhang is an important part of Bhutan's history and a significant cultural and religious site. The temple's beautiful carvings, artwork, and sculptures serve as a reminder of Bhutan's spiritual and cultural history. It is a living example of the strength and resilience of the Bhutanese people.

Terton Pema Lingpa constructed Jabdo Goenpa, which is also where he recited. Jabdo Goenpa is located in Paro, Shaba Gewog, Gangri Tilik Chiwog. History Such a background does not exist for Jabdo Goenpa. Guru Rinpoche's statue is the major one. The statue was taken from Jabdo Goenpa at Paro Dzong, but it was later put back where it had been. He or she must go to the Goenpa and worship if they are Jabdo Goenpa's descendants each year. The great-grandparents accepted to send the main statue to Paro Dzong when they were asked to bring it from Jabdo Goenpa. Even 13 to 15 people were unable to lift the Guru Rinpoche statue that was scaled to human size. The group of individuals moved the statue to Paro Dzong by using all of their power. The statue was facing the wrong direction when the Dzong caretaker went to offer water. The group of individuals moved the statue to Paro Dzong by using all of their power. The statue was facing Shaba Valley when the Dzong caretaker arrived to offer water. Before leaving, he turned the statue. When he returned in the evening, he once again noticed the statue facing Shaba. He became angry and kept the statue in Paro Dzong hidden behind a ladder. He informed the lama and Phajo Tenzin and the people of Jabdo Goenpa were called to take back the statue. When they were walking through the steps in Paro Dzong, they asked where the statue of Guru Rinpoche is kept, and right after the question, Guru Rinpoche’s voice came from behind them, stating that he was there at the back of the ladder. For the first time, Guru Rinpoche’s statue talked. When the statue was taken back to Jabdo Goenpa, a man could easily carry the statue back, but the statue was not able to be picked up by 13 to 15 people while being taken to Paro Dzong. This shows that the statue is distained to be in Jabdo Goenpa. Jabdo Goenpa's interior design Jabdo Goenpa is not a monastery or lhakang, as we might anticipate. It's perched atop a cliff. It has a gentle slope up front and a steep cliff in back. There are two rooms as soon as we walk through Goenpa's front door. The Goenpa is painted white and has a red roof. Old monuments, weapons, and clothing are in the second room, while the nuns and caretaker use the first. It resembles a tiny historical museum. The primary statues, one pillar, statue of Rinpoche, and statues of gods are all located on the upper floor. Decedents or linages of the Jabdo goenpa are necessary to worship the deity annually at a statue on the left side of the room. The fascinating history and interior design of Jabdo Goenpa offer a unique glimpse into Bhutanese culture and spirituality. The story of Guru Rinpoche's statue, which spoke for the first time during its return to the monastery, is a powerful testament to the spiritual significance of the site. The simple yet elegant interior design, with its focus on the primary statues and annual worship rituals, creates an immersive and engaging atmosphere for visitors to connect with the traditions of Jabdo Goenpa. Perched atop a cliff with breathtaking views, the Goenpa's location adds to its allure as a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan.

As an architect, I have had the privilege of travel around and study various architectural styles and traditions. But as biased as I am, there is one country that never fails to take my breath away - Bhutan. Our Himalayan kingdom is home to some of the most beautiful and unique architectural styles in the world. In this article, I aim to give you a comprehensive introduction to the fascinating world of Bhutanese architecture. Introduction: The traditional architecture of Bhutan is a reflection of their heritage and is one of the most beautiful expressions of Bhutanese culture. From large fortresses to temples, monasteries, palaces, and vernacular housing, Bhutan is dotted with diverse examples of traditional Bhutanese architecture. Key Characteristics: Use of gentle tapering heavy walls made of stone or rammed earth Light "flying" gable timber roofs Colorful floral, iconographic, and spiritual paintings Design of light frames with elaborate timber windows and Rabsel Multi-tiered trefoil timber windows with Horzhu (The arch on top of the window) Colorful timber lintels and cornices known as Bogh Materials: Inspired by nature, local natural materials such as earth, stone, timber, and bamboo are the core construction building blocks of traditional Bhutanese architecture. This not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the structures but also makes them environmentally sustainable and in harmony with their surroundings. Construction Techniques: One of the most remarkable things about Bhutanese architecture is that it was constructed without the use of any metal nails, bolts, or screws. Local carpenters and masons managed the design and construction of buildings, and they were so skilled that they were able to construct buildings without the use of any design drawings on paper. The use of simple yet ingenious timber joinery techniques allowed them to achieve this way of construction. Adaptation to the Environment: Traditional Bhutanese architecture has adapted over many centuries to suit the local environment, climate, materials, technology, and more significantly, cultural traditions and spiritual beliefs. Architecture in Bhutan is adapted to satisfy not only functional and economical needs but also social and spiritual requirements. Conclusion: Bhutanese architecture is a unique blend of tradition, spirituality, and practicality, making it one of the most fascinating and inspiring architectural styles in the world. I hope this guide has given you a glimpse into the magic of Bhutanese architecture and has sparked your curiosity to learn more about this beautiful country and its rich cultural heritage. Or you can wait for my future articles where i’ll dive deeper into the mystical world of Bhutanese architecture. Stay tuned!

Embark on a journey through time and culture as we discover the magnificent dzongs of Bhutan. These ancient fortresses, nestled in the mountains and valleys of the Himalayas, offer a glimpse into the rich history and tradition of Bhutan. From the imposing Punakha Dzong to the mystical Trongsa Dzong, each dzong has its own unique story to tell. So grab your hiking shoes and join us as we explore the eight dzongs of Bhutan that have stood the test of time. 1. Paro Dzong: Paro Dzong is a historic dzong located in the Paro Valley of Bhutan. The dzong is known for its intricate carvings, beautiful paintings, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is a popular tourist destination, offering a glimpse into Bhutan's rich cultural heritage. 2. Punakha Dzong: Punakha Dzong is located in Punakha, Bhutan, and is one of the country's most important dzongs. The dzong is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and its central role in Bhutanese culture and politics. It was the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and is still considered the winter residence of the Je Khenpo. 3. Simtokha Dzong: Simtokha Dzong is located near Thimphu, Bhutan, and is one of the country's oldest dzongs. The dzong is home to the Institute for Language and Culture Studies, and is considered an important center for learning and research. 4. Jakar Dzong: Jakar Dzong is located in Bumthang, Bhutan, and is one of the largest dzongs in the country. The dzong is known for its beautiful architecture and its central role in Bhutanese culture and history. It was once the seat of power for the Bhutanese king and is still considered an important cultural and historical site. 5. Lhuentse Dzong: Lhuentse Dzong is located in the Lhuentse district of Bhutan, and is considered one of the country's most important dzongs. The dzong is known for its beautiful architecture and its rich cultural heritage, and is considered a vital center for Bhutanese history and culture. 6. Trongsa Dzong: Trongsa Dzong is located in the Trongsa district of Bhutan, and is considered one of the country's most historic and important dzongs. The dzong has served as a center of political and religious power for centuries, and is known for its beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage. 7. Gasa Dzong: Gasa Dzong is located in the Gasa district of Bhutan, and is considered one of the country's most remote and isolated dzongs. The dzong is surrounded by rugged terrain and breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and is known for its unique cultural and natural beauty. 8. Tashichho Dzong: Tashichho Dzong is located in Thimphu, Bhutan's capital city. It serves as the administrative and religious center of Bhutan, housing the offices of the king and the government. The dzong is also the summer home of the Je Khenpo, Bhutan's spiritual leader. In conclusion, the dzongs of Bhutan are a testament to the country's rich history and cultural heritage. Each dzong has its own unique story to tell and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Bhutan. So, pack your bags and head out on an adventure to explore the majestic dzongs of Bhutan.

Bhutan is a small Himalayan country that is known for its happiness index, as well as for its unique cultural heritage. One of the fascinating aspects of this heritage is the country's ethnic diversity. Although the Ngalop people who speak Dzongkha are the majority, there are several other ethnic groups in Bhutan, each with their own distinct culture and traditions. Which includes four main ethnic groups: Ngalop, Sharchop, Lhotshampa, and Bhutanese tribal and aboriginal people. The Ngalop, meaning "earliest risen" or "first converted," are of Tibetan origin and migrated to Bhutan as early as the ninth century. They introduced Tibetan culture and Buddhism to Bhutan and were the dominant political and cultural element in modern Bhutan. Dzongkha, their language, is the national language and is descended from Old Tibetan. The Ngalop are dominant in western and northern Bhutan. The Sharchop, meaning "easterner," are populations of mixed Tibetan, South Asian, and Southeast Asian descent that mostly live in the eastern districts of Bhutan. The Sharchop account for most of the population of eastern Bhutan. They have been largely assimilated into the Tibetan-Ngalop culture, and most Sharchop speak Tshangla, a Tibeto-Burman language. They traditionally practice slash-and-burn and tsheri agriculture, planting dry rice crops for three or four years until the soil is exhausted and then moving on. The Lhotshampa, meaning “southerner”, are generally classified as Hindus, although this is an oversimplification, as many groups that include Tamang and Gurung are largely Buddhist. Their main festivals include Dashain and Tihar. In the late 1980s and 1990s, as many as 107,000 Lhotshampa left Bhutan. Traditionally, Lhotshampa have been involved mostly in sedentary agriculture, although some have cleared forest cover and conducted tsheri agriculture. In addition to these groups, Bhutan also had a sizable modern Tibetan refugee population. Although there are no Tibetan communities or villages in the country, the total Tibetan population stood at 10,000 in 1987, with the majority arriving in the aftermath of the 1959 Tibetan Uprising. Although Bhutan traditionally welcomed refugees - and still accepted a few new ones fleeing the 1989 unrest in Tibet - government policy in the late 1980s was to refuse more refugees. Despite this, the Tibetan population in Bhutan has continued to persevere, building new lives for themselves and their families in the face of adversity. Finally, there are small aboriginal or indigenous tribal people that live in scattered villages throughout Bhutan. These include the Brokpa, Lepcha, and Doya tribes, as well as the descendants of slaves who were brought to Bhutan from similar tribal areas in India. They are culturally and linguistically part of the populations of West Bengal or Assam, areas which was historically under Bhutan later annexed by British-India and have embraced the Hindu system of endogamous groups ranked by hierarchy and practice wet-rice and dry-rice agriculture. These communities tend to be near traditional population centers where they can participate in service to the state. Together, the Ngalop, Sharchop, and tribal groups constituted up to 72 percent of the population in the late 1980s according to official Bhutanese statistics. Despite the differences among the various ethnic groups, the people of Bhutan have a shared sense of identity and a deep respect for their cultural heritage. They are proud of their country's unique traditions and customs, which have been shaped by centuries of isolation in the Himalayas. From the Ngalop to the Lhotshampa to the small aboriginal or indigenous tribal peoples, each group has a unique story to tell. Today, Bhutan is an increasingly modern country that is making efforts to preserve its cultural heritage while also embracing the benefits of globalization. Whether you are interested in the country's history, religion, or culture, there is much to discover in Bhutan's diverse ethnic groups.

Merak and Sakteng are two remote gewogs in Trashigang district where Brokpas, the nomadic yak herders, showcase their unique culture and traditions. The Brokpas can be easily spotted as they wear different costumes unlike other Bhutanese. Their costumes are typically made from wool, silk, and yak hair to help them adapt to the harsh geographical environment. The most distinctive part of their outfit is the unique hat called tshipizham, which is made from black felt and woven from yak hair. The hat has five fringes protruding from it, known as "tsipee cham," which help the Brokpas protect themselves from rainwater. The hat also serves as a cushion on their head while carrying heavy loads. Heavy loads are carried on the back with a strap over one's head. The Brokpa men wear red wool jackets that are tight around the waist with a belt. They also wear knee-high leather boots, which are now replaced by gumboots. The men wear a vest made of deerskin or yak calf hide with the furs intact to provide warmth. The rough leather also provides protection while herding yaks. Underneath, they wear knee-length shorts known as kanggo, usually cream or white in color, with slits at the sides from the waist kept in place by two leather strings. But these shorts are now getting replaced by nylon track pants. The men carry a dragger tucked in their belt at the waist level. The Brokpa women keep their long hair tied up in plaits with colorful ribbons. They wear pink and white striped raw silk dresses on top, covering up to waist length. They also wear red-striped skirts with some animal and flower motifs woven on them. Women wear additional black wool shawls during the winter to keep warm. Brokpa women are excellent weavers, and they love jewelry. Most of them wear traditional jewelry like corals interspersed with cat's eye, zee, and semi-precious stones around the neck. All the pieces of their dresses have their own purpose. For example, the animal skins worn by men are meant to keep them warm, and like that, they have tshipizham which has five tentacles, each with its own reason. The hats are flat and are made from yak hair, so each hat has five tentacles. These tentacles are designed to draw away the rain and keep the hat dry. According to oral tradition, the Brokpas made their way to Bhutan after beheading a king called Drayba Jabu in Tibet in the year 1347. The Brokpas have been able to maintain their unique culture and traditions despite being cut off from the rest of the world. Their costumes are a testament to their resilience and adaptability to the harsh environment they live in. In conclusion, the costumes of Merak and Sakten are not only unique but also serve a practical purpose in the lives of the Brokpas. From the hats to the animal skins, each piece of clothing has its own function, and together they make up an outfit that has helped the Brokpas survive in the harsh environment of the Himalayas. The costumes are a symbol of the Brokpas' rich cultural heritage and their ability to adapt to changing times while still preserving their traditions.

Do you want to learn more about Merak and Sakteng's distinctive dress traditions? Both of these Bhutanese tribes have a long-standing custom of dressing elaborately to showcase not only their rich cultural past but also their way of life and values. Enter the colorful world of Merak and Sakteng costumes now. Tucked away in the remote Trashigang district of Bhutan are two gewogs - Merak and Sakteng where the Brokpas, nomadic yak herders, showcase their unique culture and traditions. From the local dialect they speak to the traditional songs they sing and the dances they perform, the Brokpas are unlike any other Bhutanese. But what makes them stand out the most is their distinctive costumes. It takes a two-day trek to reach Merak from Chaling, the nearest road head, and another two days to reach Sakteng from Phongmey, the nearest road head. However, the journey is well worth it to witness the Brokpas' unique dress. The Merak and Sakteng tribe is well-known for their "Lugoi" costumes, which feature a red woolen skirt, a black woolen top with elaborate red and white embroidery, and a woven belt with protracted tassels. The "Kongmol" headgear is a conical hat covered in multicolored beads and the fur of animals like the Himalayan black bear. It is constructed of bamboo or cane. Also, the Merak and Sakteng people don jewelry including bracelets, earrings, and necklaces made of silver, coral, and turquoise. In the Merak culture, the Lugoi costume is a representation of grace and pride and is worn for festivals, weddings, and other important events. On the other side, the Sakteng tribe is recognized for their distinctive "Sakteng Gho" dress. The Sakteng Gho is a knee-length garment with vivid, dramatic designs, frequently in red and yellow tones, made of handwoven cotton, silk, or raw silk. The traditional "Kera" belt, which is composed of woven cloth and has a complex pattern of threads, is worn with the Sakteng Gho. The "Khamar," a conical hat constructed of bamboo or cane and embellished with vibrant tassels and ribbons, is the headgear of the Sakteng people. Both men and women can wear the Sakteng Gho, which is a formal outfit in the Sakteng society. The Merak and Sakteng and Sakteng cultures place great cultural value on their dress codes, which go beyond simple fashion. For instance, the Merak and Sakteng people have the belief that the Himalayan black bear's fur on their headdress shields them from evil spirits and that the "Buli," or heavenly chain connecting all living things, is represented by the tassels on their belt. Similar to this, the Sakteng people hold that wearing bright colors brings joy and happiness, and that their belt's pattern of threads symbolizes the "Jewe," or the five wisdoms in Buddhism. In conclusion, Merak and Sakteng's outfits are a visual feast and a window into Bhutanese culture. These tribes' deeply ingrained beliefs and customs are reflected in the elaborate designs, vivid colors, and distinctive headdresses. It's intriguing to observe the Marak and Sakten people's traditions during festivals and other celebrations since they take tremendous delight in them. If you ever get the chance to travel to Bhutan, don't forget to look into the Marak and Sakten dress customs; you will not be disappointed!

Peljorling Higher Secondary School celebrates the birthday anniversary of his Majesty on its campus grounds. 21-02-2023 It was a beautiful morning in Samtse, Bhutan as the students and teachers of Peljorling higher secondary school gathered at 8:30 to celebrate the 43rd birth anniversary of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. The excitement and anticipation in the air were palpable, as everyone was looking forward to the day's events. At 9:00, the chief guest arrived, and everyone welcomed him with warm smiles and kind greetings. The atmosphere was joyful and festive as the chief guest, principal, and teachers offered butter lamps to commemorate the occasion. Then, the national flag was hoisted, and the national anthem was sung with great pride and enthusiasm. The zhapten of the fifth king was also recited, and everyone felt a sense of patriotism and love for our country. After the opening ceremonies, the principal gave a warm welcome speech, expressing his gratitude and appreciation for the presence of everyone in the event. The chief guest also gave a heartfelt speech, encouraging everyone to keep striving for excellence and to contribute to the betterment of society. Following the speeches, a colorful marching band procession was held, and the students and teachers marched with great enthusiasm and passion. It was an incredible sight to behold, as the whole school was alive with the sound of drums and trumpets. After the marching, it was time for the dance and games program. The students had prepared thoroughly for this, and everyone was eager to showcase their talents. The performances were stunning, and the audience was enthralled as they watched the dancers move with grace and elegance. The games were just as exciting, and everyone was having a great time playing them. The laughter and cheers echoed across the school grounds, and it was a joyous occasion for all. The day had been a fantastic celebration, and everyone had a wonderful time. As the celebrations drew to a close, the students and teachers felt a sense of pride and honor in being a part of this event. It was a day that they would never forget, filled with adventure, excitement, and joy. The memories they made that day would stay with them for a lifetime, and they would always cherish the experience of celebrating the birth anniversary of our beloved king. Photographs by Guru Wangchuk.

Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck is the current Druk Gyalpo or Dragon King of the Kingdom of Bhutan. He ascended the throne on 9 December 2006 after his father, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, abdicated the throne in his favor. Wangchuck was officially crowned on 6 November 2008 in a public coronation ceremony that was attended by dignitaries, including the then-President of India, Pratibha Patil. His coronation marked the 100 years of monarchy in Bhutan. Wangchuck was born on 21 February 1980 in Paropakar Maternity and Women's Hospital in Kathmandu. He is the eldest son of the fourth Dragon King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and his third wife, Queen (Ashi) Tshering Yangdon. He has a younger sister, Princess (Ashi) Dechen Yangzom, and a brother, Prince (Gyaltshab) Jigme Dorji, as well as four half-sisters and three half-brothers. Wangchuck completed his higher secondary studies at Yangchenphug High School and then went to the United States, where he attended Phillips Academy in Andover and Cushing Academy in Ashburnham, where he finished high school. He then studied at Wheaton College in Massachusetts before completing the Diplomatic Studies Programme at Magdalen College, Oxford. Before ascending to the throne, Wangchuck was known to the people of Bhutan as "Dasho Khesar," the Crown Prince. He accompanied his father on many tours throughout the kingdom and officially represented Bhutan on several international events. On 8 May 2002, he represented Bhutan at the 27th UN General Assembly and made his first speech to the United Nations, addressing issues related to the welfare of millions of children around the world. On 31 October 2004, Wangchuck was installed as the 16th Trongsa Penlop in Trongsa Dzong. The institution of the Trongsa Penlop signifies the true heritage to the Bhutanese Throne, and the investiture ceremony of the Trongsa Penlop is the formal declaration of this status of the Crown Prince. To welcome Wangchuck as the king of Bhutan, people painted street signs and hung festive banners. Wangchuck married Jetsun Pema in 2011, and they have two sons, Prince Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck and Prince Jigme Ugyen Wangchuck. Wangchuck is known for his efforts to promote the Gross National Happiness (GNH) development philosophy and has implemented policies that prioritize the well-being of his people and the environment.

At the heart of Bhutanse spiritual legacy lies the figure of Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, who is revered as the most popular and pervasive religious figure in Bhutan's Buddhist traditions. One of the most remarkable manifestations of this devotion to Guru Rinpoche can be seen in the numerous Zangtog Pelri temples that dot the Bhutanese landscape. Zangtog Pelri, which means "Copper Coloured Mountain" in the Bhutanese language, is a style of temple architecture that represents the Copper Coloured Palace of Padmasambhava, said to be located in the land of rakshasas or demons. According to Bhutanese religious consciousness, Guru Rinpoche is an enlightened force who exists beyond spatial and temporal constructions, beyond birth and death. Zangdog Pelri, as the place where he has resided since leaving the Himalayas, is seen as a blessed realm conducive for spiritual practices that culminate in enlightenment. Zangtog Pelri temples are functional three-dimensional representations of Padmasambhava's palace, with three floors depicting the realms of three Buddhas, who are essentially one and the same. The top floor represents the realm of the Buddha Amitabha, the middle floor the realm of the bodhisattva Avalokiteśvara, and the broad ground floor as the realm of Padmasambhava. The sculptures and wall murals on the three floors include Buddhas, deities, and figures who constitute the retinues of the three Buddhas. In the main shrine on the ground floor, Padmasambhava takes the central place surrounded by his disciples including the two chief female consorts, his twenty-five Tibetan followers, and the many treasure discoverers. Despite the minor differences in their architectural styles, all Zangtog Pelri edifices across Bhutan serve all the functions of any other temple, and are hubs of religious activities and public events. These paradises of Guru Rinpoche are not only significant spiritual landmarks but also a testimony to the country's rich cultural heritage. In conclusion, Zangtog Pelri temples are a must-visit for anyone interested in Bhutanese culture and spirituality. With their breathtaking architecture, intricate sculptures and wall murals, and rich spiritual significance, these temples provide a glimpse into the Bhutanese way of life and the devotion of its people to Guru Rinpoche.

Khar is an oral tradition of Bhutan that involves the game of riddles. This tradition is popular among the Bhutanese and is often played during social gatherings, festivals, and other celebrations. Khar is a fun and engaging game that challenges the mind and stimulates creative thinking. In this article, we will explore the game of Khar and some examples of riddles. The game of Khar involves two or more players. One player is chosen as the riddle master, and they come up with a riddle that the other players have to solve. The riddle master begins by reciting a verse that provides clues to the answer. The other players listen carefully and try to guess the answer. The first player to guess the correct answer becomes the next riddle master. Khar is a game that has been passed down from generation to generation. It is an integral part of Bhutanese culture and is often played during special occasions. The game is not only fun, but it also promotes teamwork, creativity, and critical thinking. Here are some examples of riddles from the game of Khar: Nga ku meg pa chop chop….Mi ringku la thag gey pey log thag la thag gyen ney zi lo ya?: Dar cho shing. (When the tail is cut off, the head is still there. What is it?: A map.) Nga ku meg pa chop chop….Yig peye ri sum tsi kha phab peye jamtsho ting nga zi lo ya?: Sho sho ma. (When lifted is at the tip of the ri sum (three mountains) but when lowered is at bottom of the ocean. What is it?: Churning stick.) Pako tsa lo nang ka bitang temken cho wa hang?: Solo. (A red pocket filled with coins. What is it?: Chilli.) Lung thunka shing lik pa shing thungka lung ligpa lung thungka shing shing thung ka soo lik pa hang?: Rnag thang. (On stone a tree is grown, on the tree a stone, on the stone a tree and on the tree a bamboo. What is it?: Grinding stone.) Ma rey ma rey zer the rey mi rey rey zer the mi rey ga chi mo?: Kha. (When said don’t touch don’t touch it touches and when said touch touch it does not touch. What is it?: Mouth.) Khar is a game that is enjoyed by people of all ages in Bhutan. It is an excellent way to pass the time, have fun, and challenge the mind. The game of Khar is a unique aspect of Bhutanese culture, and it continues to be an integral part of the country's traditions.

Bhutan is rich with unique cultural heritage, and one of the most recognizable symbols of this heritage is the dzong, a large fortified edifice that serves as a center of religious and political life. These structures can be found throughout the country and are still used as the headquarters of national and district administration, as well as the main base of state-affiliated monastic communities. The term "dzong" originally referred to a site that was difficult to access, but today it mainly refers to large built structures that can be roughly divided into three types corresponding to three political phases of national history. The earliest types of dzongs were large structures built by lamas before Bhutan was unified by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel (1594-1651) in the 12th century. These dzongs, such as Jathel Dzong, Do-ngon Dzong (Blue-stone), Sumthrang Samdrup Chodzong, Lingshi Yugyel dzong, Tango Choying dzong, Dobji Dzong, and Lhadzong Tashigang, were mostly built on sites considered to have spiritual significance and were generally temple-like structures without architectural features that distinguished them from other religious structures. While some became homes for hereditary lamas, others were run by successive abbots and incarnations. The second type of dzongs were built by Zhabdrung and his followers or those who followed that architectural style. They were mainly fortified political centers that housed public administration and were heavily fortified due to being built in times of war. These dzongs often contained large storage spaces to hold the grains, dairy products, and animal products that were collected as tax, and had a central tower, large courtyard, and surrounding monastic residences and offices. The third and last category of dzongs in Bhutan were built in the 19th and 20th century, mostly as royal residences. They drew on local domestic architectural traditions and relied heavily on the use of timber. Unlike previous generations, they were not heavily fortified and had more straight walls and use of wood for windows and cornices. They included provisions for courtiers, playgrounds, and horse stables, and were not portrayed as religious centers, though religious space was integrated within them. The third generation dzongs are mostly located in Bumthang and Trongsa, where the first two Kings ruled the country. These dzongs include Wangdicholing palace, Lamai Gonpa (Monastery), and Yungdrung Choling palace built under the first monarch, Tashi Choling, Kuenga Rabten, and Samdrup Choling by the second, Haa Wangchuck Lo Dzong and Tashi Choe Dzong by the third King Dzongs are an important part of Bhutan's cultural heritage and serve as reminders of the country's history and traditions. Visitors to Bhutan should make a point to visit at least a few of these impressive structures, which are not only visually stunning but also provide insight into the country's past and present.