I funny night of sleep. It was warmer, so ditched a layer of clothing and socks too at one point. Also, the room is so closed up to get some heat and I need fresh air – so open the balcony door for 1/2 the night. Wrote my journal before sleep, and I think, as once before, it led to a restless sleep. And Hunter the dog!
A goodbye to all the young staff here at the hotel. I do so hope they will all have good and adventurous lives.
We are off back to Paro.
It’s raining when we set off and it is cloudy, especially as we climb to the pass. Chelela. A loud round of Lha Gyelo! We stop and just stand in the stillness – no wind today. A bank of thick, white, white clouds below us.
Down to Paro. Good road, though of course all curve after curve as we head down. Some lovely panoramas as we go. Again such a change as we go from above the tree line into the forests. At one point mile after mile of iris (wild) in the forest. They bloom purple in late May and must be spectacular. The larch are turning colour.
Arrive at the hotel and get settled in. Then to the museum and fortress after lunch. The museum is 2 buildings. The new one is a very modern display of the different regions of Bhutan and the plants, animals, birds etc. It’s really so informative. The second building is in the old watch tower – and is room after room of the historic artifacts of Bhutan: dress, wall hangings, fabric, old, old pottery, cast iron pots, shards of old tools, weapons, pictures, jewellery, hats, etc. It’s really so amazing.
Jamyang is so correct – all tourists should start here – such a good intro to Bhutan. To the fortress and temple. The fortress is magnificent, and later when I see it lit up truly so! Walk down to meet up with Kinzang. A great afternoon.
I have dinner alone – though ends up not alone. There are some big groups in the dining room, only a few tables set for 2 or 3. I invite a man that’s also solo to join me for dinner – M. I have a really delightful few hours. M. is a constant traveler and has been to some exceptional adventures – the mountain gorillas in Uganda / Rwanda for example. He lives in Virginia just outside of DC. Knows Chuck’s old stomping grounds – Reston, Virginia well. I just had a flash – where I spent those first few days and nights with Chuck – 40 odd years ago.
To bed, hopefully to sleep. Up tomorrow to leave for fishing at 8 AM. Another great day!