Bhutan: Tiger's Nest Temple

The Tiger's Nest temple is the epitome of Buddhist temples for me. The story goes that a monk flew from the valley on the back of a tiger to the cliffs above the Paro Valley in Bhutan. There he meditated in a cave for years. Ellen and I rode horses up through the valley until even they were stopped due to the steepness of the cliffs. The monestary is at an elevation of 10,000 feet and the valley floor is at 7,000. Once we arrived at the top we were greeted by the head monk and given a ceremony that celebrated our love and offered blessings to my ailing mother. While walking though the temple I came across a door that lead to a cave!! Yes - I was able to do some caving in the middle of this 3,000 foot cliff.

Paro, Bhutan: Beauty and grace emaculate

Bhutan: What a gem! We flew from Kathmandu this morning and after a 45 minute flight by Mt. Everest and many other Himalayan peaks we landed in the Paro Valley. This is a unique and very special place. The people are all gracious, kind, warm and welcoming. The landscape is stunning: forested mountains, crystal clear river waters and green valleys that are a patchwork of rice patties and straw. In Bhutan it is illegal to hunt. All meats are farmed. That level of conservation is reflected in the unspoiled countryside. The houses are all reminiscent of Swiss chalets, each kept clean and manicured. You can feel the sense of respect these people offer their belongings and their land. This evening we had dinner with the Bhutan Rimpoche Datong Tulku: a reincarnate of the original Buddha. He is the spiritual leader of Bhutan. Ellen and I sat and shared stories and were delighted in his easy humor, and amazing mix of business savvy and religious acumen. He is in the process of rebuilding a temple and we spoke of having him visit USA.