Joe Englander Photography Workshops and Photo Tours

Alaska

Denali: Fall Color along braided riverbed (03075-02c)

Denali: Fall color on tundra above braided river (03075-03c)

Denali: Fall colors bearberry (03079-05c)

Denali: last light on Alaska Range (03049-76c)

Denali: Marshy flat near Wonder Lake (03040-64c)

Denali: McKinley from marshy flat (03040-59c)

Denali: Mt McKinley reflects in tundra pond (03080-950a)

Denali: Sunrise on Pebble Pond with McKinley (03040-51c)

Denali: Sunset on McKinley from Wonder Lake (03040-69c)

Dew-covered Sedge Grass (03080-66c)

Dew-covered Sedge Grass (03080-68c)

Fall color, Cotton grass (03080-87)

Fall Color, Hatcher Pass (03080-71c)

Fall color, Sumac, Hatcher Pass (03080-83c)

Fall Color: Bearberry, Cranberry, Lichen (03079-08c)

Fall Color: Bearberry, Cranberry, Lichen (03079-09c)

Fall colors Tundra, Hatcher pass (03080-78c)

Fall Colors Undergrowth, Hatcher Pass (03080-77c)

Bangkok

Ayuthaya Buddha reflecting (050908_1152071)

Bangkok Floating Market (99027803)

Bangkok Floating Market (99027815)

Bangkok Temple Dancers (99028604)

Chinatown Gifts (00700-00092-00)

Royal Palace Temple, Bangkok, Thailand (050908_1439381)

Wat Arun: Spirit Hooks (00700-00040-01)

Wat Phra Kaow: Chofa Sky Tassels (00700-00026-00)

Wat Phra Kaow: Monk Among Pediments (00700-00021-00)

Wat Phra Kaow:Mosaic Tiled Pillars and Pediments (00700-00019-00)

Bhutan

An Itinerant Monk's Prayers (bhutan00800-282A)

Bhutan: Yotangla: prayer flags (Bhutan_060928_1117_23166)

Bhutan: Swinging bridge over Mo Chu to Punakha Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060921_1219_21014n)

Bhutan: Brass covered prayer wheels are turned by handles at Lhakhang Karpo Monastery in Ha Valley of western Bhutan. (Bhutan_060915_1235_18466)

Bhutan: Taksang (Tiger's Nest) hangs from a cliff far above the Paro Valley in western Bhutan. (Bhutan_060916_1152_18637)

Bhutan: The Zangtopelri Temple in Thimphu is named for Guru Rinpoche's paradise. (Bhutan_060917_1709_19508)

Bhutan: Ceilings painted with mandalas and walls painted with religious murals in Zangtopelri Temple in Thimphu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060917_1736_19526)

Bhutan: Dais for prayer leader in sanctuary of Lhakhang Karpo monastery in western Ha Valley, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060915_1229_18463)

Bhutan: Head nun conducts puja (prayer cermony) at nunnery in Thimphu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070917_09581)

Bhutan: At Chela Pass, highest pass in Bhutan at about 3800 mtrs, prayer flags become interwoven. (Bhutan_060915_1037_18527)

Bhutan: Engulfed by morning fog, Paro Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060915_0650_18485)

Bhutan: Butter lamp burns as a prayer; Taksang (Tiger's Nest) on a cliff in the distance in western Bhutan. (Bhutan_060916_1004_18767)

Bhutan: Old man spinning prayer wheel at Memorial Chorten in Thimphu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070425_09481)

Bhutan: Across a mountain gorge from wind blown prayer flags,Taksang (Tiger's Nest) hangs from a mountain cliff in western Bhutan. (Bhutan_060916_1142_18628)

Bhutan: Swinging foot-bridge crosses Paro-chu to Tachogang temple constructed by Tangtong Gyelp in 15th C Bhutan. (Bhutan_070916_09281)

Bhutan: Isolated on a forested ridge, Rizlim Goem in Ha Valley, Western Bhutan. (Bhutan_060915_1119_18551)

Bhutan: Thimphu Tsechu in courtyard of Tashi Chodzong (Tashicchodzong), the center of religion and government for the country of Bhutan. (Bhutan_070917_09231)

Bhutan: The Je Kempo, Head Lama of the entire country, crosses the central courtyard of Tashichhoedzong, Bhutan's main Dzong. (Bhutan_060917_1159_19386)

Bhutan: Young monk running across courtyard in Tashicchodzong (Bhutan_070424_17511)

Bhutan: Old woman entering traditional grain house in Drukgyel Village, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070915_13101)

Bhutan: Ruins of old prayer house in Drukgyel Village, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070915_11591)

Bhutan: Motor scooters parked along Nordzin Lam in downtown Thimphu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070425_17422)

Bhutan: Prayer wheels built into mani wall. (Bhutan_070425_18031)

Bhutan: Monks climb steep stairs of central Utse inTashichhoedzong, the main dzong of Bhutan. (Bhutan_060917_1201_19393)

Bhutan: Monks returning to dormitory in Tashichhoedzong, the main dzong of Bhutan (Bhutan_060917_1152_19372)

Bhutan: Two old men watching archery contest in Paro, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070915_08541)

Bhutan: Two nuns, one wearing earphones and contemporary t-shirt with inscription: You can fool some people all the time. They are called MEN.' Thimphu, Bhutan (Bhutan_070917_09291_2)

Bhutan: Older woman whose teeth are blackened from using beetle nut. (Bhutan_070915_12551)

Bhutan: Girl, Budha Maya, in school uniform near Khamsum Yuly Namgyal Chorten in Mo-chu valley near Punakha, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070919_15331)

Bhutan: Novice monk in Rinpung (Paro) Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_070914_11541)

Bhutan: Mother carrying baby in traditional sling waits for government offical in Punakha Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070919_11121)

Bhutan: Bhutanese man, Tashi Dendhup, in tradional attire of Gho and white kabney. (Bhutan_070919_11571)

Bhutan: Archery, with traditional handmade bows, is Bhutan's national sport. (Bhutan_070426_09131)

Bhutan: Traditional archery competition shows arrow in mid-air at Changlimethang in Thimph, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060918_0922_19573)

Bhutan: Teaching sculture atTashi Gepheling the National Institute for Traditional Arts & Crafts where students learn the skills necessary to maintain their culture in Bhutan. (Bhutan_060919_1001_20134)

Bhutan: Practicing sculture atTashi Gepheling the National Institute for Traditional Arts & Crafts where students learn the skills necessary to maintain their culture in Bhutan. (Bhutan_060919_1016_20193_1)

Bhutan: Girl learning to weave on back-loom atTashi Gepheling, the National Institute for Traditional Arts & Crafts where students learn the skills necessary to maintain their culture in Bhutan. (Bhutan_060919_0945_20096)

Bhutan: Large golden rock carving of Padmasamhava, the Guru Rimpoche located in a river valley near Thimphu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060919_1330_20250)

Bhutan: Cheri Dorjeden Gombpa high in the steep hills above the Cheri-chu gorge was founded in 1620. (Bhutan_070917_13481)

Bhutan: Monk running through second courtyard of Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060929_1508_23875)

Bhutan: Pilgrims and visitors hiking up the trail to Cheri Monastery. Bhutn. (Bhutan_060919_1536_20296)

Bhutan: Going the last mile in delivering Dell Computers in the countryside of Bhutan. (Bhutan_060919_1555_20306)

Bhutan: Fog enshouds mountain valleys below Dochlu La in Western Bhutan (Bhutan_070918_14551)

Bhutan: Fog enshouds mountain valleys below Dochlu La in Western Bhutan (Bhutan_070926_06301)

Bhutan: Chortens and prayer flags mark the highest point of Dochula Pass, Bhutan (Bhutan_060920_1133_20463)

Bhutan: Old woman with prayer wheel and prayer breads circumambulates chorten at Dochula in western Bhutan. (Bhutan_070927_14311)

Bhutan: Itinerant monk chants to accompaniment of hand drum and bell (Bhutan_070919_08031)

Bhutan: Prayer flags in front of chorten with water-driven prayer wheel in mountains near Dochula, Bhutan (Bhutan_070426_13011)

Bhutan: Rice terraces in mountain valleys along Punatsang-chu near Wangdi, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070919_09031)

Bhutan: Farms dot the mountains and valleys along the Rong Chu road to Wangdi, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060920_1510_20678)

Bhutan: Snow capped mountains viewed from forest covered valley; Mount Jumolhari, Bhutan (Bhutan_070919_08211)

Bhutan: Rice terrances and farm house line the Punatsang Chu in Thetsho county, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060920_1532_20693)

Bhutan: Wangdi Dzong seems to grow of hillside at confluence of Punatsang-chu and Dang-chu rivers. (Bhutan_070922_16141)

Bhutan: Wangdi Dzong highlighted against stormy sky in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_060920_1611_20810)

Bhutan: Punakha Dzong (Pungthang Dech Dzong) is at the confluence of the Mo-chu (mother) on the left and Po-chu (father) rivers in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_070919_09381)

Bhutan: Spring flowers and blooming trees decorate Punakha Dzong beside the Mo Chu in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_070427_09331)

Bhutan: Spring flowres line the path beside Punahka Dzong. (Bhutan_070427_10051)

Bhutan: Young monks playing on stairs into Punakha Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_070919_10361)

Bhutan: Young monks watched by Lama as they enter first courtyard of Punakha Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_070919_10381)

Bhutan: Funded by the father of the Queen, a new monastery with golden doors has been built in the new district capital of Khuruthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060921_1011_20833)

Bhutan: Craftsman carrying wooden stairs into main assembly hall of Punakha Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060921_1136_20974)

Bhutan: Third courtyard, looking toward main assembly hall of Punaka Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_060921_1158_20996)

Bhutan: The most important Assembly Hall of the third court of Punahka Dzong. (Bhutan_070427_10271)

Bhutan: Altar with butter sculptures in sanctuary of Punakha Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060921_1204_21004)

Bhutan: Monks praying in ceremony in Punakha Dzong. Butterlamps and butter sculptures on altar. (Bhutan_070427_10201)

Bhutan: Novice monks waiting for Lama, Punakha Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070919_11021)

Bhutan: Old monk turning large prayer wheel at decorated entrance to Punakha Dzong. (Bhutan_070427_11001)

Bhutan: Funded by the father of the Queen, a new monastery with golden doors has been built in the new district capital of Khuruthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060921_1005_20822)

Bhutan: Eyes of Buddha stare out from Chorten in Khuruthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060921_1045_20949)

Bhutan: The Mo-Chu valley from Khamsum Yuly Namgyal Chorten near Punakha, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070919_16231)

Bhutan: Shadow of Nyizergang Stupa at Khamsum Yuly Namgyal Chorten on rice fields of Mo-chu valley. (Bhutan_070919_16261)

Bhutan: Punakha Valley, monastery Kamsum Uli Namgay funded by Queens' Mother for Crown Prince (Bhutan_060921_1343_21031)

Bhutan: Punakha Chuu (river) Valley: rice fields and farms, traditional farm house (Bhutan_060922_1010_21170)

Bhutan: Khamsum Yuly Namgyal Chorten in Punakha Valley. Bhutan (Bhutan_060922_1026_21181)

Bhutan: Khamsum Yuly Namgyal Chorten in Punakha Valley : Black and White moth on Black and White Prayer Flag (Bhutan_060922_1110_21046)

Bhutan: The Mo-Chu valley from Khamsum Yuly Namgyal Chorten near Punakha, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060922_1041_21189)

Bhutan: Rice terraces along Dang-chu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070923_09461)

Bhutan: Traditional three story farm house and rice terraces at Tikke, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070923_09141)

Bhutan: Prayer flags at Pele La (pass), Bhutan. (Bhutan_070923_11501)

Bhutan: Winding road through Tangsibji passes rape and mustard fields. (Bhutan_070923_12381)

Bhutan: Monks using umbrellas near Gantey, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060923_0936_21244)

Bhutan: Monastery dominatd town of Gantey, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060923_0933_21235)

Bhutan: Bddha and other statues still under protective plastic wrapping are visible through recently painted windows during construction at Gantey Monastery, Bhutan (Bhutan_060923_1010_21122)

Bhutan: Painted prayer wheels in Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bhutan (Bhutan_060925_0928_21436)

Bhutan: Morning fog surrounds Jakar Dzong in Bumthang, Bhutan (Bhutan_070501_06191)

Bhutan: Old villager with prayer beads turns prayer wheels out side Jampa Lhakhang, revered as the most ancient temple in Bhutan. (Bhutan_070429_14181)

Bhutan: Young novice monks from the Yellow Hat sect perform puja with conch shells, horns, drums and bells in colorful assembly hall at Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang monstery, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070429_06251)

Bhutan: Monks in Wandi Dzong performing pujah with drums, horns, and bells. (Bhutan_070426_17101)

Bhutan: Monk holding page from prayer book during morning puja in Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bhutan (Bhutan_060925_0937_21469)

Bhutan: Monks holding pages from prayer books during morning puja in Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bhutan (Bhutan_060925_0943_21486)

Bhutan: Lama Dorji Tenzing leads monks in reading from loose-leaf prayer books in Chotse monastic school, Trongsa, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060928_1415_23224)

Bhutan: Lama Dorji Tenzing bangs gong to call students to class at Chotse monastic school in Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060928_1427_23261)

Bhutan: Lama carefully builds mandala from grains of sand in Trongsa (Chotse) Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060928_1452_23295)

Bhutan: Domkhar Trashichoeling: Third King's Palace, now abandoned (Bhutan_060928_1039_23158)

Bhutan: Mantras decorate a large prayer wheel in Jakar Dzong, Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070501_16271)

Bhutan: Old man turns prayer wheels while circumambulating the most ancient temple of Jambha Lhakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060927_1410_22882)

Bhutan: Founded by Songtsen Gampo of Tibet and revered as the most ancient temple in Bhutan, Jambha Lhakhang is covered with some of the most beautiful reglious wall painting in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_060927_1436_22920)

Bhutan: Mandala held by Buddha painted on ceiling of entry hall at Kurje Lhakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060927_1520_23013)

Bhutan: Mount Gangkar Punsum (7541 m) is the highest peak in Bhutan. (Bhutan_070430_0831_1788)

Bhutan: Jakar Dzong in Bumthang rises out of morning fog. Bhutan. (Bhutan_070501_06161)

Bhutan: Spring brings rhodendrong flowers near Yotong La (pass) in the Bumthang mountains of Bhutan. (Bhutan_070502_11401)

Bhutan: Young nun beside prayer wheels at entrance to Jampa Lhakhang, revered as the most ancient temple in Bhutan. (Bhutan_070429_15071)

Bhutan: Red prayer flag near Chendebji Chorten in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_070502_15481)

Bhutan: Fog enshouds mountain valleys below Dochlu La in Western Bhutan (Bhutan_070918_14491)

Bhutan: Girls--Phuyl Kumari and Dhan Kumari--in school uniforms near Khamsum Yuly Namgyal Chorten in Mo-chu valley near Punakha, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070919_15241)

Bhutan: Woman wearing traditional central-Bhutan-style hat and carrying woven basket-pack along the Mange River valley. (Bhutan_070428_09571)

Bhutan: Farmers' wives sell cheese, butter, and milk from traditional woven bamboo packs and containers in Tangsibji area of Bhutan. (Bhutan_060929_1015_23510)

Bhutan: Old man wearing traditional gho and bamboo hat walking along Mangde-chu valley, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070924_10141)

Bhutan: Community of women cooking corn over open fire in traditional manner in Mange Chu valley, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070924_10361)

Bhutan: Woodsman carrying an ax and wearing a traditional bamboo hat walks from Tangsibi in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_060926_1656_22285)

Bhutan: Farmer's wife carrying bamboo basket backpack and wearing traditional bamboo hat in Tangsibji area of Bhutan. (Bhutan_060929_1019_23529)

Bhutan: Women farmers, using woven basekets and wearing traditional hats, harvesting along the Mange River valley, Bhutan (Bhutan_070428_09511)

Bhutan: Farms dot the mountains and valleys along the road to Wangdi (Bhutan_060920_1446_20597)

Bhutan: Chokhor Rabtentse Dzong with its Ta Dzong watch tower in Trongsa, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060928_1609_23126)

Bhutan: Red prayer flag flies over Mangde-chu Valley in Trongsa, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060928_1322_23180)

Bhutan: Domkhar Trashichoeling: Third King's Palace, now abandoned (Bhutan_060928_1035_23155)

Bhutan: Monk turning prayer wheel at entrace to religious central tower (utse) of Trongsa Dzong. The murals depic the Sangdok Pelri paradise and the cosmology of Abhidharmakosa. (Bhutan_070428_11591)

Bhutan: Monks climbing stairs to utse in Trongsa (Chotse) Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060928_1521_23349)

Bhutan: Stairway leading to central tower (utse) of Trongsa Dzong, formally known as Chokhor Rabtentse. (Bhutan_070428_11401)

Bhutan: Chokhor Rabtentse Dzong grows out of the cliff-side in Trongsa, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060928_1519_23346)

Bhutan: The central courtyard of the Dzong at Trongsa, formally known as Chokhor Rabtentse (Chotse) Dong is one of the larges in Bhutan. (Bhutan_060928_1350_23194)

Bhutan: Head monk in formal Yellow robes stands in front of elaborate butter sculpture holding special kata and offering prayers during puja at Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bhutan (Bhutan_060927_0841)

Bhutan: Monk works on large and elaborate butter sculpture which will be destroyed during puja at Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060925_1034_21626)

Bhutan: Monks, wearing formal Gelug sect yellow garb, offer puja to sound of long horns and drums in Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang (monastery), Bhutan. (Bhutan_070925_09221)

Bhutan: Drums help keep rhythm in chants during puja by Gelup Yellow Hat monks in Karchu Dratsang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070925_09531)

Bhutan: Monks from the Yellow Hat sect perform puja with horns, drums and bells in colorful assembly hall at Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang monstery, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070429_09391)

Bhutan: Monks from the Yellow Hat sect perform puja with horns, drums and bells in colorful assembly hall at Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang monstery, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070429_10031)

Bhutan: Yellow Hat monks use cymbals during mantras at puja in Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060927_0820_22449)

Bhutan: Young monks in formal Gelup Yellow Hat attire count prayers during chanting puja in Karchu Dratsang monastery, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070925_09351)

Bhutan: Monks of the Yellow Hat sect of Buddhism chanting at puja in Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060925_1857_21845)

Bhutan: Monks playing cymbals and drums as part of meditation at puja in Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060925_1933_21992)

Bhutan: Monks of Yellow Hat sect play horns during prayers in Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060927_0827_22566)

Bhutan: Yellow robed monks of the Yellow Hat sect of Buddhism pray at puja in Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060926_0658_22037)

Bhutan: Monks wearing Yellow Robes and Hats of their sect at puja in Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060926_0801_22243)

Bhutan: Monk in his dormitory room in Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bhutan (Bhutan_060925_1112_21647)

Bhutan: The first puja prayer ceremony in the completed sanctuary of Pema Thekchok Cholling Nunnery which was built by hand by the residents. (Bhutan_070925_16091)

Bhutan: The first puja prayer ceremony in the completed sanctuary of Pema Thekchok Cholling Nunnery which was built by hand by the residents. (Bhutan_070925_16011)

Bhutan: Young monk watches Ura Yakcho festival from window decorated with kata scarf. (Bhutan_070430_1002_1)

Bhutan: Black Had Dancer decends stairs led by monks of the Red Hat sect playing horns, conch shells, and drums during the Ura Yakchoe festival, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070430_11101)

Bhutan: Boy places old, damaged, drum during religous ceremony at Ura Yakchoe festival, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070430_1112_1994)

Bhutan: Monk plays horn during Black Hat dance in front of elaborate Utse at Ura Yakchoe festival, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070430_1114)

Bhutan: Important Black Hat Dance is performed in front of elaborate Utse at Ura Yakchoe festival, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070430_1120)

Bhutan: Layman plays cymbals to accompany religious dances at Ura Yakchoe festival, Bhutan (Bhutan_070430_09541)

Bhutan: Young girls at watching Ura Yakchoe festival, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070430_0932)

Bhutan: Young boy peers between monk's legs at frightening masked dancers at ceremony of Thangbi Mani in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_070926_10251)

Bhutan: Monk turns prayers wheels as he passes by prayer hall in Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060925_1135_21663)

Bhutan: With drum in foreground and hanging tapestries, young monks conduct morning puja at Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060925_1004_21541)

Bhutan: Lama Yeshi Dendrup, a tulku (a reincarnate), holds butter lamp in Kharchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bhutan (Bhutan_060927_1609)

Bhutan: Young monk at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_0817_24883)

Bhutan: The town of Ura with central Gombpa with verdant valley in Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060926_1115_22260)

Bhutan: Snow capped mountains, forested hills, Bhutan (Bhutan_070923_11121)

Bhutan: Chendebji Chorten in the Trongsar District of Bhutan. (Bhutan_060929_0919_23370)

Bhutan: Mother in traditional attire carries baby in traditional fabric backpack at Thangbi, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070926_09501)

Bhutan: Boy in school uniform at class in Jalikhar Community School, Chamkhar, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060925_1408_21761)

Bhutan: Girl in school uniform at Jalikhar Community School, Chamkhar, Bhutan (Bhutan_060925_1412_21782)

Bhutan: Girl in school uniform at Jalikhar Community School, Chamkhar, Bhutan (Bhutan_060925_1413_21786)

Bhutan: Children at Jalikhar Community School built and funded by their parents in central Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070925_11241)

Bhutan: Children at Jalikhar Community School built and funded by their parents in central Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070925_11261)

Bhutan: Children at Jalikhar Community School built and funded by their parents in central Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070925_11411)

Bhutan: Children at Jalikhar Community School built and funded by their parents in central Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070925_11171)

Bhutan: Children at Jalikhar Community School built and funded by their parents in central Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070925_11271)

Bhutan: Children at Jalikhar Community School built and funded by their parents in central Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070925_11291)

Bhutan: Children at Jalikhar Community School built and funded by their parents in central Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070925_11301)

Bhutan: Children at Jalikhar Community School built and funded by their parents in central Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070925_11331)

Bhutan: Children at Jalikhar Community School built and funded by their parents in central Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070925_11341)

Bhutan: Children at Jalikhar Community School built and funded by their parents in central Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070925_11441)

Bhutan: Children at Jalikhar Community School built and funded by their parents in central Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070925_11442)

Bhutan: Old man in traditional cotton gho watches monks preparing for Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_0753_24783)

Bhutan: Two young dancers with their masks for the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_060930_0741_24770)

Bhutan: Young monk sorts Black Hats, masks, and gowns forTsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_0738_24762)

Bhutan: Young monk with ceremonial Black Hat used in Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_060930_0745_24776)

Bhutan: Hats and masks wait on shelves for monk-performers at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_0747_24780)

Bhutan: Monks watch practice sessions in preparation for Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060929_1437_23736)

Bhutan: Monks practice in preparation for masked dances during Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060929_1455_23957)

Bhutan: Monks practice procession for Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_060929_1505_24024)

Bhutan: The Tsechu is an important time for social gatherings at the Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_0736_27549)

Bhutan: During the less crowded practice sessions, families still come to watch dances in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060929_1445_23772)

Bhutan: Masked atsaras (clowns) sitting in the central performance area at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_0853_24043)

Bhutan: Practice and preparations for folk dances during Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_060929_1435_23722)

Bhutan: Women practice Boe Dra (Druk Zhung Dhi Na) folk song and dance at Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060929_1502_23990)

Bhutan: Practicing processional for Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_060929_1519_23845)

Bhutan: Monks practice blowing long horns for Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_060929_1522_23916)

Bhutan: Chipdren procession leads officials and performers into Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_0808_24837)

Bhutan: Chipdrel procession with horns and hand drums, folk singers and dancers, starts Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_060930_0920_24063)

Bhutan: Drum beats keep Chipdrel procession moving in time, Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060929_1524_23862)

Bhutan: Chipdrel procession of folk singers accompanied by crowned dancers with hand drums at Tschue in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_060930_0810_24858)

Bhutan: Barefoot Chipdrel dancer with handdrum and crown leads govenor and other officials into Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_0812_24876)

Bhutan: Dancers and folk singers interrupted by atsara during Chipdrel procession starting Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_0920_24067)

Bhutan: Sha Tsham-Bay Cham danced by laymen at Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_09141)

Bhutan: Sha Tsham-Bay Cham danced by laymen at Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_09231)

Bhutan: Stag masked dancer performs Sha Cham-Bay Cham at start of Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_1000_24176)

Bhutan: Monks perform the Black Hat ground purification rite, Zhana Cham-Gelong Gar. Because these rites are so special, the very act of seeing them purifies the viewer! This performance is one of the most imporant rituals of the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_1045_24431)

Bhutan: Black Hat Dance or Zhana Cham-Gelong, done by monks as part of the consecration of the ground ceremony during the Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_09551)

Bhutan: Laymen prepare themselves to perform Ju Ging Bay Cham during Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_060930_1126_24943)

Bhutan: Fellow dancer adjusts wooden mask for laymen performing Ju-Ging Baycham during Tsechu at Wangdi, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_15161)

Bhutan: Ju-Ging Bay Cham is performed by laymen wearing carved animal masks and carrying sticks at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_1137_24959)

Bhutan: Ju-Ging Bay Cham is performed by laymen wearing carved animal masks and carrying sticks at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_1139)

Bhutan: Ju-Ging Bay Cham is performed by laymen wearing carved animal masks and carrying sticks at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_1140_24979)

Bhutan: Ju-Ging Bay Cham is performed by laymen wearing carved animal masks and carrying sticks at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_1141_24984)

Bhutan: Ju-Ging Bay Cham is performed by laymen wearing carved animal masks and carrying sticks at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_1148_24694)

Bhutan: Ju-Ging Bay Cham is performed by laymen wearing carved animal masks and carrying sticks at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_1149_24701)

Bhutan: Ju-Ging Bay Cham is performed by laymen wearing carved animal masks and carrying sticks at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_1151_24710)

Bhutan: Crowds in traditional attire watch the Ju Ging Bay Cham at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_1518_25246)

Bhutan: Ju-Ging Bay-cham danced by layment in carved wooden masks at Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_11021)

Bhutan: Ju-Ging Bay-cham danced by layment in carved wooden masks at Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_11031)

Bhutan: Ju-Ging Bay-cham danced by layment in carved wooden masks at Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_11071)

Bhutan: Ju-Ging Bay-cham danced by layment in carved wooden masks at Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_11141)

Bhutan: Ju-Ging Bay-cham danced by layment in carved wooden masks at Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_11191)

Bhutan: Ju-Ging Bay-cham danced by layment in carved wooden masks at Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_11111)

Bhutan: Ju-Ging Bay-cham danced by layment in carved wooden masks at Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_11181)

Bhutan: Laymen dressed for masked dance of Kelcham-Baycham wait to enter Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan (Bhutan_070920_15171)

Bhutan: For the Kel Cham Bay Cham, performed by laymen, the animals carry flags during the Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_060930_1546_25339)

Bhutan: For the Kel Cham Bay Cham, performed by laymen, the animals carry flags during the Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_060930_1541_25282)

Bhutan: Masks used during the dances at the Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_15291)

Bhutan: A layman, wearing the mask and attire of a nobel lady, during the Kelcham Baycham at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_1548_25354)

Bhutan: Friends help layman adjust his mask for Kelcham-Baycham dance during Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_14551)

Bhutan: Old man wearing traditional gho and kabne scarf at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_08022)

Bhutan: Masked atsara performs bawdy joke with huge wooden phalus; policeman in background. Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_08371)

Bhutan: Young girls in traditional attire but eating crisps laugh at Atsara's antics at start of Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_08141)

Bhutan: Little girl in silken kira jacket is astonished by bawdy atsara jokes at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_08301)

Bhutan: Atsara (clown) plays with wooden used for bawdy jokes and instuction during Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_070921_07381)

Bhutan: Young boys enjoying performances by the Atsara (clowns) at the Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan (Bhutan_070920_08431)

Bhutan: Girl friends and sisters wearing traditional kirra sit together watching Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_070921_07591)

Bhutan: Young women friends enjoy antics of Atsara during beginning of Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_08101)

Bhutan: Children laugh at bawdy performance by Atsara (clown) during Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_14501)

Bhutan: Children enjoy performance by Atsara (clowns) during Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_14481)

Bhutan: Two women in colorful traditional attire watch Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_070920_14231)

Bhutan: Young girl enthralled by masked dances at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_15521)

Bhutan: Two young Bhutanese boys in traditional gho wearing western style gym shoes. (Bhutan_070920_14161)

Bhutan: Two young girl friends in traditional attire are happy to be at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_07501)

Bhutan: Young teenage girl wearing colorful silken traditional kira jacket at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_07451)

Bhutan: Tungam - Gelong Cham, dance of the terrifying dieties, is performed by monks both in elaborate gowns and in masks during Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_09261)

Bhutan: Tungam - Gelong Cham, dance of the terrifying dieties, is performed by monks both in elaborate gowns and in masks during Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_09381)

Bhutan: Tungam - Gelong Cham, dance of the terrifying dieties, is performed by monks both in elaborate gowns and in masks during Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_10301)

Bhutan: Tungam - Gelong Cham, dance of the terrifying dieties, is performed by monks both in elaborate gowns and in masks during Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_09481)

Bhutan: Even talking by mobile phone passes the time for folk singers waiting to perform at Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_14581)

Bhutan: Women perform Boe Dra (Druk Zhung Dhi Na) folk song and dance during Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_15371)

Bhutan: Woman, elegantly dressed with beautiful bearing, watches masked dances during Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_15541)

Bhutan: Elder lama at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_061002_0809_27473)

Bhutan: Young monks playfully wearing crowns of Chipdrel musicians at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_0804_27469)

Bhutan: Young monks playfully wearing mask of manifestation for Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_0823_27497)

Bhutan: Itinerant monk with portable prayer-house outside of Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_0755_24791)

Bhutan: Music accompanies entrance of officials and dancers at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_0843_27504)

Bhutan: Music accompanies entrance of officials and dancers at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_0849_27528)

Bhutan: Music accompanies entrance of officials and dancers during Chipdrel at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_0816_27481)

Bhutan: Music accompanies entrance of officials and dancers at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_0841_27563)

Bhutan: Lords of the Cremation Grounds dance (Durdag Bay Cham) to protect the cremation grounds from demonic enomies who would harm the Doctrine of Buddhism. Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan (Bhutan_070921_08401)

Bhutan: Durdag- Bay Cham performed by laymen dressed as ghosts and skeletons at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_061001_0911_25711)

Bhutan: Tungam - Gelong Cham, dance of the terrifying dieties, is performed by monks both in elaborate gowns and in masks during Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_09252)

Bhutan: Tungam - Gelong Cham, dance of the terrifying dieties, is performed by monks both in elaborate gowns and in masks during Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_09391)

Bhutan: Lama in orange robe with staff and whip and monk with incense burner participate in Tungam-gelong Cham at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061001_0959_25819)

Bhutan: The dance of the terrifying dieties, Tungam-Gelong Cham, is performed by monks wearing wooden masks and dressed in elaborate gowns at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061001_1004_25831)

Bhutan: The dance of the terrifying dieties, Tungam-Gelong Cham, is performed by monks wearing wooden masks and dressed in elaborate gowns and an orange robed Lama at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061001_1045_26024)

Bhutan: Very old nun prays with prayer wheel and prayer beads at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_0833_27558)

Bhutan: Women in beautiful traditional attire perform folk songs of Boe Dra (Choe Ni Yab chen) fduring the Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061001_1520_26996)

Bhutan: Women peeform the Boe Dra (Druk Zhung Dhi Na) folk song and dance at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061001_1128_26227)

Bhutan: Raksha Mang Cham, Dance of the Judgment of the Dead is based on the (Tibetan) Book of the Dead, Bardo Theodrol and performed at the Tsechu in Wandi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_11261)

Bhutan: Raksha Mang Cham, Dance of the Judgment of the Dead is based on the (Tibetan) Book of the Dead, Bardo Theodrol and performed at the Tsechu in Wandi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_11511)

Bhutan: Monks masked as animals and demons perform the Raksha Mang Cham with Lord of Death. The performer in black is Due Nachu from hell; the one with the white face is Hacharchu is from heaven; those with gold crown and bone aprons are Khandum from heaven. The Raksha are seated in two rows in front of Shinje, the Lord of Death. This is one of the most important religious dances--it is almost a play-- at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061001_1356_26880)

Bhutan: Monks wearing wooden animal masks are Raksha, helpers seated in two rows before Shinje Chhogyel,the Lord of Death, in the Raksha Mang Cham during the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061001_1408_26680)

Bhutan: During Raksha Mang Cham, the giant Shinje Chhogye, the Lord of Death, hears arguments from the black demon from hell, Due Nachu from hell and from the white faced Hacharchu from heaven during the Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_061001_1404_2683-E8D)

Bhutan: Young novice monk watches the Raksha Mang Cham closely as Shinje, the Lord of Death, rules over the Tsechu in the Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_061001_1358_26900)

Bhutan: Raksha Mang Cham, Dance of the Judgment of the Dead is based on the (Tibetan) Book of the Dead, Bardo Theodrol and performed at the Tsechu in Wandi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_11521)

Bhutan: Monks wearing wooden animal masks are Raksha, helpers of Chogyel Shinje, the Lord of Death. In the Raksha Mang Cham, the bear cuts down selfishness during the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_061001_1411)

Bhutan: Monks wearing wooden animal masks are Raksha, helpers of Shinje Chhogyel, the Lord of Death. In the Raksha Mang Cham, the serpant uses a mirror to reflect all of man's actions during the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061001_1413_26735)

Bhutan: Raksha Mang Cham, Dance of the Judgment of the Dead is based on the (Tibetan) Book of the Dead, Bardo Theodrol and performed at the Tsechu in Wandi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_11291)

Bhutan: Raksha Mang Cham, Dance of the Judgment of the Dead is based on the (Tibetan) Book of the Dead, Bardo Theodrol and performed at the Tsechu in Wandi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_11301)

Bhutan: Raksha Mang Cham, Dance of the Judgment of the Dead is based on the (Tibetan) Book of the Dead, Bardo Theodrol and performed at the Tsechu in Wandi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_11303)

Bhutan: Monks wearing wooden animal masks are Raksha, helpers of Shinje the Lord of Death, in the Raksha Mang Cham during the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061001_1414_26744)

Bhutan: Monks wearing wooden animal masks are Raksha, helpers of Shinje Chhogyel, the Lord of Death. In the Raksha Mang Cham, the monkey weights the acts of man during the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061001_1416_26558)

Bhutan: Raksha Mang Cham, Dance of the Judgment of the Dead is based on the (Tibetan) Book of the Dead, Bardo Theodrol and performed at the Tsechu in Wandi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_11272)

Bhutan: Raksha Mang Cham, Dance of the Judgment of the Dead is based on the (Tibetan) Book of the Dead, Bardo Theodrol and performed at the Tsechu in Wandi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_11061)

Bhutan: Raksha Mang Cham, Dance of the Judgment of the Dead is based on the (Tibetan) Book of the Dead, Bardo Theodrol and performed at the Tsechu in Wandi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_12181)

Bhutan: Monks wearing wooden animal masks are Raksha, helpers of Shinje the Lord of Death, in the Raksha Mang Cham during the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061001_1417_26567)

Bhutan: Shinje Chhogyel, the Lord of Death, rules over the Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061001_1433_26637)

Bhutan: During long dance of Raksha Mang, the fate of man is assessed by many agents. Here the white face is Hacharchu from heaven; those with gold crown and bone aprons are Khandum, also from heaven. The Raksha Mang Cham, a morality play, is performed for several hours at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_061001_1439_26467)

Bhutan: Monks wearing wooden animal masks are Raksha, helpers of Shinje Chhogyel, the Lord of Death in the Raksha Mang Cham. During the Cham, the monk in ox head acts as the minister of justice in the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_061001_1446_26513)

Bhutan: White faced Hacharchu from heaven helps Shinje Chhogyel, the Lord of Death, with a white strip of cloth that symbolizes the road to heaven during the Raksha Mang Cham at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061001_1448_26528)

Bhutan: Shinje Chhogyel, the Lord of Death, wears skulls on his mask at the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_061001_1449_26534)

Bhutan: Wearing the wooden mask of an Ox, a layman performs the Dolungmai jug Cham for bridge building at Wangdi during the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061001_1530_27028)

Bhutan: Dramitsche Ngacham - Bay Cham performed by laymen at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_070921_15401)

Bhutan: Dramitsche Ngacham - Bay Cham performed by laymen at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_070921_15271)

Bhutan: Simply by seeing the Dramitsche Nga Cham-Bay Cham of animal masked dancers playing drums, demons are vanquished and men and gods in Zantoperlri can gain Buddhahood during the Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_061001_1617_27248)

Bhutan: Layman dancer rests between performances at Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_14391)

Bhutan: Young boy peaks from behind curtains to watch Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_070920_14421)

Bhutan: Some folk singers are close friends after years of performing together. (Bhutan_070920_15201)

Bhutan: Folk singer in gorgeous traditional attire watches dancers at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_15221)

Bhutan: Atsara wearing traditional attire uses a Polo Sports satchel to carry his accoutrements at Wangdi Tsechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_15041)

Bhutan: Atsara (clown) and folk singer wait to enter performance of Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_15411)

Bhutan: Woman in traditional dress including large kira broches watches dances during Tsechua at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070920_15491)

Bhutan: People from miles around gather in central courtyard to celebrate Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_070921_10501)

Bhutan: Rada Wangmo and her friend Karma at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_16211)

Bhutan: Three young girls in school uniforms writing notes near Punakha, Bhutan (Bhutan_070919_15291)

Bhutan: Bhutanese people at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_16351)

Bhutan: Beautiful young Bhutanese woman in traditiona kira jacket and long hair at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070921_16371)

Bhutan: Raising of elaborate, embrodiered, multi-colored, thankha of Guru Rimpoche is accompanied by candle-lit early morning puja prayer ceremony at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070922_05241)

Bhutan: Elaborate Thankha of Guru Rimpoche with streaming banners covers three stories of main Utse at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070922_05361)

Bhutan: Dancers perform meditation cermonies in front of Head Lama before butter sculptures and the Guru Rimpoche Thankha during the Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070922_06501)

Bhutan: Leaping into mid-air is part of the Pa Cham, Dance of the Heroes, at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_0938_27687)

Bhutan: Leaping into mid-air is part of the Pa Cham, Dance of the Heroes, at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_0939_27691)

Bhutan: Pa Cham, Dance of the Heroes at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_0931_27660)

Bhutan: Ging Dang Scholing Cham performed at Tsechue in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. The Tsholing have terrifying masks; the Ging, flags on their heads. (Bhutan_061002_1054_28138)

Bhutan: Ging Dang Tsholing Cham during Tsechu, Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. Tsholing have long skirt and terrifying maks; Ging have flags on head and beat drums. (Bhutan_070922_11301)

Bhutan: Ging Dang Tsholing Cham during Tsechu, Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. Tsholing have long skirt and terrifying maks; Ging have flags on head and beat drums. (Bhutan_070922_11471)

Bhutan: Ging Dang Tsholing Cham during Tsechu, Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. Tsholing have long skirt and terrifying maks; Ging have flags on head and beat drums. (Bhutan_070922_11321)

Bhutan: Ging Dang Tsholing Cham during Tsechu, Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. Tsholing have long skirt and terrifying maks; Ging have flags on head and beat drums. (Bhutan_070922_12151)

Bhutan: Ging Dang Tsholing Cham during Tsechu, Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. Tsholing have long skirt and terrifying maks; Ging have flags on head and beat drums. (Bhutan_070922_12191)

Bhutan: Ging Dang Scholing Cham performed at Tsechue in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. The Tsholing have terrifying masks; the Ging, flags on their heads. (Bhutan_061002_1035_28103)

Bhutan: Ging Dang Scholing Cham performed at Tsechue in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. The Tsholing have terrifying masks; the Ging, flags on their heads. (Bhutan_061002_1110_28250)

Bhutan: Ging Dang Scholing Cham performed at Tsechue in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. The Tsholing have terrifying masks; the Ging, flags on their heads. (Bhutan_061002_1203_28056)

Bhutan: Ging Dang Scholing Cham performed at Tsechue in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. The Tsholing have terrifying masks; the Ging, flags on their heads. (Bhutan_061002_1204_28060)

Bhutan: Ging Dang Tsholing Cham during Tsechu, Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. Tsholing have long skirt and terrifying maks; Ging have flags on head and beat drums. (Bhutan_070922_11421)

Bhutan: Ging Dang Tsholing Cham during Tsechu, Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. Tsholing have long skirt and terrifying maks; Ging have flags on head and beat drums. (Bhutan_070922_11591)

Bhutan: Ging Dang Tsholing Cham during Tsechu, Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. Tsholing have long skirt and terrifying maks; Ging have flags on head and beat drums. (Bhutan_070922_11511)

Bhutan: Guru Tshen Gyed Cham; Dance of the Eight Manifestations of the Guru Rinpoche. (Bhutan_070922_12451)

Bhutan: Monks, wearing red hats of Drukpa Buddhism, beat large drums with sticks and play cymbals to accompany Guru Tschen Gyed Cham. (Bhutan_070922_13011)

Bhutan: Guru Tschen Gyed Cham, Dance of the Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche performed at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_1208_28080)

Bhutan: Guru Tschen Gyed Cham, Dance of the Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche performed at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_1222_27878)

Bhutan: Guru Tschen Gyed Cham, Dance of the Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche performed at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_1212_28163)

Bhutan: Guru Tschen Gyed Cham, Dance of the Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche performed at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_1222_27882)

Bhutan: Guru Tschen Gyed Cham, Dance of the Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche performed at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_1216_27866)

Bhutan: Guru Tshen Gyed Cham; Dance of the Eight Manifestations of the Guru Rinpoche. The fairy who is tanding to the right is Mandarava, the lady of wisdom; to right is Yeshey Tshogyel, the goddess of knowledge and mother of all Buddhas. (Bhutan_070922_12421)

Bhutan: Guru Tshen Gyed Cham; Dance of the Eight Manifestations of the Guru Rinpoche. (Bhutan_070922_13091)

Bhutan: Guru Tshen Gyed Cham; Dance of the Eight Manifestations of the Guru Rinpoche. (Bhutan_070922_13121)

Bhutan: Guru Tshen Gyed Cham; Dance of the Eight Manifestations of the Guru Rinpoche. (Bhutan_070922_13131)

Bhutan: Guru Tshen Gyed Cham; Dance of the Eight Manifestations of the Guru Rinpoche. (Bhutan_070922_13161)

Bhutan: Guru Tshen Gyed Cham; Dance of the Eight Manifestations of the Guru Rinpoche. amulets. (Bhutan_070922_12471)

Bhutan: Guru Tshen Gyed Cham; Dance of the Eight Manifestations of the Guru Rinpoche. amulets. (Bhutan_070922_13001)

Bhutan: Guru Tshen Gyed Cham; Dance of the Eight Manifestations of the Guru Rinpoche. (Bhutan_070922_12501)

Bhutan: Guru Tshen Gyed Cham; Dance of the Eight Manifestations of the Guru Rinpoche. (Bhutan_070922_12511)

Bhutan: Guru Tschen Gyed Cham, Dance of the Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche performed at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_1232_27811)

Bhutan: With a small thongdrel (thanka) behind them, monks using cymbals, drums, and horns provide accompanying music for religious dances during the Tsechu at Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_060930_1112_24653)

Bhutan: Guru Tschen Gyed Cham, Dance of the Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche performed at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_1231_27788)

Bhutan: Guru Tschen Gyed Cham, Dance of the Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche performed at Tsechu in Wangdi Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_061002_1232_2780-F08)

Bhutan: Masked figure seems to walk with old man at Thangbi Mani, Bhutan (Bhutan_070926_09221)

Bhutan: Masked dancers scare evil spirits away before start of fire-ceremony at Thangbi Mani in central Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070926_10131)

Bhutan: Masked dancers scare evil spirits away before start of fire-ceremony at Thangbi Mani in central Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070926_10141)

Bhutan: Head Lama of Thangbi Lhakhang (monastery) tosses water and butter sculpture as part of prayer ceremony prior to starting Fire Ceremony at Thangbi Mani in central Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070926_10191)

Bhutan: Young monks play short horns to accompany prayers offered by Head Lama at ceremony of Thangbi Mani in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_070926_10261)

Bhutan: Head Lama leads prayers with bell and prayer beads at inception of Fire Ceremony of Thangbi Mani in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_070926_10262)

Bhutan: Young monks play short horns to accompany prayers offered by Head Lama at ceremony of Thangbi Mani in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_070926_10263)

Bhutan: Old man with prayer beads waits with his son to enter monastery for ceremony at Thangbi, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070926_09391)

Bhutan: Grandfather carries his grandchild in traditional fabric back-pack sling at Thangbi, Bhutan. (Bhutan_070926_09442)

Bhutan: Colorful prayer flags offered to winds on Sangaygang Trail above Thimphu, Bhtuan (Bhutan_080309_162839_1_LR)

Bhutan: Young reincarnate (tulku) nun during prayer ceremony at Thekchock Choling nunnery in Tang Valley, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080313_151720)

Bhutan: Nuns with hand drums and bells pray and sing at Thekchock Choling nunner in Tang Valley, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080313_151256_CF_LR)

Bhutan: Reincarnated (tulku) nun at Tag Tekchock Choling nunnery in Tang Valley, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080313_144540_CF_LR)

Bhutan: Colorful prayer flags offered to winds on Sangaygang Trail above Thimphu, Bhutan (Bhutan_080309_155239_1_LR)

Bhutan: Woman prays at Kings Memorial Chorten as truck decorated with picture of Buddha passes. (Bhutan_080310_093537_LR)

Bhutan: Reconstruction of King's Memorial Chorten involves all kinds of hand-work including free-hand painting, Thimphu, Bhutan (Bhutan_080310_095512_LR)

Bhutan: Reconstruction of King's Memorial Chorten requires much manual labor such as cutting stones by hand, Thimphu, Bhutan (Bhutan_080310_095746_LR)

Bhutan: Old woman with prayer bead necklace in front of blue door of shop (Bhutan_080310_084232_LR)

Bhutan: Woman selling all kinds of imported junk at Sunday Market in Thimphu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080309_144039_LR)

Bhutan: Vast urban construction in small Himalayan town of Thimphu, Bhutan (Bhutan_080310_121406_LR)

Bhutan: Itinerant monk offers prayers with snake-skin covered hand-drum, bell, and dorji at King's Memorial Chorten, Thimphu, Bhutan (Bhutan_080310_095843_LR)

Bhutan: Student learns to paint large religious murals at Handicrafts School where traditional arts are taught. (Bhutan_080310_102606_LR)

Bhutan: Altar in Handicrafts School with Guru Rimphoche, butter sculpture, butter lamps, water offerings, and money offerings. (Bhutan_080310_103631_LR)

Bhutan: Woman prepares beetle nut at Weekend Market in Thimphu, Bhutan (Bhutan_080309_142744_LR)

Bhutan: Prayer flags offered in memory of dead at small terraced-rice Pana village in Punatsang-chu valley. (Bhutan_080311_090013_LR)

Bhutan: Colorful prayer flags offered to winds on Sangaygang Trail above Thimphu, Bhutan (Bhutan_080309_160958_1_LR)

Bhutan: Monks lean out of carved and decorated balcony window in Punakha Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_080311_095508_LR)

Bhutan: Contemplative novice monk waits by carved and painted entranace to Punakha Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_080311_100018)

Bhutan: Monk walks under highly decorated, carved, and painted balcony of Punakha Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_080311_104721_LR)

Bhutan: Monk takes advantage of modern technology by talking with friend on mobiel phone at Punakha Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_080311_105447_LR)

Bhutan: Little Bhutanese girl, who lives at top of 3377 meter Pela Pass, with prayer flags in background. Pelela, Bhutan (Bhutan_080311_151359_LR)

Bhutan: The only road crossing the country is measured in curves. Rukubji Village, Bhutan (Bhutan_080311_153216_LR)

Bhutan: Large incense burner along stairs to upper sanctuaries of Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080312_090724_LR)

Bhutan: Young novice monk enjoys a joke at Punakha Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_080311_100808_LR)

Bhutan: Monks return to studies after tea time break at Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080312_092035_LR)

Bhutan: Monks enjoy a laugh outside classroom in Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080312_093155_LR)

Bhutan: Young monk with wall painting of sanskrit mantra 'O Mani Pema' in background at Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080312_094619_LR)

Bhutan: Young novice monk at Punakha Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_080311_101047_LR)

Bhutan: Monk turning large prayerwheel at entrance to main sanctuary area of Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_080312_094052_LR)

Bhutan: Weavers at standing looms at textile center in Zug-ne, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080312_125612_LR)

Bhutan: Young school girl from town of Zug-ne, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080312_124430_LR)

Bhutan: Smiling young girl in school uniform from Zug-ne, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080312_124609_LR)

Bhutan: Boy in school uniform at Gangrithang School, Chamkar, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080313_102917_CF_LR)

Bhutan: Girl in classroom of Gangrithang Primary School, Chamkhar, Bhutan (Bhutan_080313_104023)

Bhutan: Boys and girls wearing school uniforms in Gangrithang Primary School, Chamkhar, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080313_104206_CF_LR)

Bhutan: Girl wearing school uniform in classroom of Gangrithang Primary School, Chamkhar, Bhutan (Bhutan_080313_105456_CF_LR)

Bhutan: Girls and boys copy lessons from blackboard in Gangrithang Primary School, Chamkhar, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080313_105822_CF_LR)

Bhutan: Lush forets and snow capped mountains make the typical landscape of central Bhutan. (Bhutan_080314_090449_LR)

Bhutan: Magnificent waterfall with small sanctuary in th Thrumshing La National Park, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080314_134853_LR)

Bhutan: Man using handmade plow and bullocks turns field while his wife works with handmade hoe in Tang Valley, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080313_160818_CF_LR)

Bhutan: Farmers and their wives planting potatoes on plowed hills of Tang Valley, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080313_161916_CF_LR)

Bhutan: Farming with hand made plow beneath majestic snow capped mountains near Tangsibi in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_080314_094314_LR)

Bhutan: Small agricultural community of Tangsibi has its own gold roofed gombpa or monastery in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_080314_102037_LR)

Bhutan: Small agricultural community of Tangsibi has its own gold roofed gombpa or monastery in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_080314_102256_LR)

Bhutan: Farmer's wife wears traditional kira with silver broaches even while working in fields of Tang Valley, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080313_161408_CF_LR)

Bhutan: Woman, some with children, are the main road construction laborers in eastern Bhutan. (Bhutan_080315_085428_LR)

Bhutan: Young woman uses shovel to stir hot tar, oil, and gravel for road construction in eastern Bhutan. (Bhutan_080315_083740_LR)

Bhutan: Road construction work in eastern Bhutan (Bhutan_080315_084255_LR)

Bhutan: Woman in traditional attire from Arunashal Pradesh, India, has walked several days to attend festival at Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080315_111832_LR)

Bhutan: Boy from Drukpa minority of nomad people in eastern Bhutan. (Bhutan_080315_114620_LR)

Bhutan: Drukpa nomad woman, wearing traditional yak hair hat, in eastern Bhutan. (Bhutan_080315_115708_LR)

Bhutan: Girl at Gom Kora Tshechu in eastern Bhutan. (Bhutan_080315_122518_LR)

Bhutan: Old man wearing traditional gho in Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080315_123616_LR)

Bhutan: Itinerant monk with hand drum and bell chants in eastern Bhutan. (Bhutan_080315_123903_LR)

Bhutan: Children of Drukpa nomads in eastern Bhutan. (Bhutan_080315_114707_LR)

Bhutan: Family watches tshechu at Gom Kora in eastern Bhutan. (Bhutan_080315_140213_LR)

Bhutan: Lama makes grand entry at start of Tsechu in Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080315_140602_A_LR)

Bhutan: Monk sits and meditates in isolation in eastern Bhutan (Bhutan_080315_135015_LR)

Bhutan: Girl dressed in her finest clothes with coin-necklace at Gom Kora Tshechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080315_141139_LR)

Bhutan: Head Lama in front of butter sculptures at beginning of Gom Kora Tshechu. (Bhutan_080316_064642_LR)

Bhutan: Teenage girls dressed in their finest at Gom Kora Tshechu. (Bhutan_080316_065151_LR)

Bhutan: Procession brings statue of Buddha and giant thankha in ceremonial grounds to start Tshechu at Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_065646_LR)

Bhutan: Raising the great thankha to start tshechu at Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_070929_LR)

Bhutan: Raising the great thankha with Guru Rinpoche image to start tshechu at Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_070941_LR)

Bhutan: Monk leans out window to catch a better look at tshechu in Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_071137_LR)

Bhutan: Woman spinning prayer wheel intently watches beginning of Tshechu at Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_071628_A_LR)

Bhutan: Old man wearing kabney shawl and woman with prayer wheel and beads seek life-blessing by viewing giant Thankha at Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_072012_LR)

Bhutan: Head lama and assistant kneel and bow toward giant Thankha offering prayers at beginning of Tshechu in Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_072843_LR)

Bhutan: High officials of state and religion offer prayers before giant Thankha at inception of Tshecu in Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_072852_LR)

Bhutan: Lamas and monks wearing mitre hats of Nyingma sect present puja prayer ceremony to start Tshechu in Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_073902_LR)

Bhutan: Lama offers kata at altar of butter sculptures before giant Thankha of Padmasambhava Guru Rinpoche at start of Tshechu in Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_074354)

Bhutan: Pacham, Dance of Heros, in front of giant Thankha at Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_074728_LR)

Bhutan: Pacham, Dance of Heros, performed for head lama, lamas and government officials, in front of giant Thankha of Guru Rinpoche at Tshechu of Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_075733_LR)

Bhutan: Masked atasra (clown) entertains children at tsechu in Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_080533_LR)

Bhutan: Girls in silken kira watch Tshechu at Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_081433_LR)

Bhutan: Yak hair hat with 'rain gutters' is traditionally worn by Drukpa nomads of Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_081513_LR)

Bhutan: Wearing heavy deer masks, dancers perform the Kye Cham during Tshechu at Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_112350_LR)

Bhutan: Wearing heavy deer masks and carrying a sword in his right hand, a dancer performs the Kye Cham during Tshechu at Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_113032_LR)

Bhutan: Monks offer holy water to faithful at Tshechu in Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_115429_LR)

Bhutan: Wearing heavy wooden masks, deocrative boots, and brocade dresses, dancers perform the Tungam (Dance of terrifying dieties) to the accompaniment of wind instruments at Tshechu in Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_121536_LR)

Bhutan: Wearing heavy wooden masks, deocrative boots, and brocade dresses, dancers perform the Tungam (Dance of terrifying dieties) to the accompaniment of wind instruments and incense burners at Tshechu in Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_122031_LR)

Bhutan: Wearing heavy wooden masks of terrifying dieties and yellow skirts, dancer perform Ging Sum at Tshechu in Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_134457_LR)

Bhutan: Although cell service was only recently introduced to the country, a little girl has toy mobile phone in remote eastern Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_134831_LR)

Bhutan: Drukpa nomad women, wearing traditional yak hair hat with rain-gutters, at Gom Kora in eastern Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_135333_LR)

Bhutan: Father and son, both dressed in traditional gho, have an intense discussion at Gom Kora in eastern, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_135510_LR)

Bhutan: During a break from musical accompaniment, young monk use mobile phone while novices play with horns. Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_143607_LR)

Bhutan: For Dramitse Na Cham, dancers wear yellow skirt and animal masks while beating a drum at the Tshechu of Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_144200_LR)

Bhutan: For Dramitse Na Cham, dancers wear yellow skirt and animal masks while beating a drum or banging cymbals at the Tshechu of Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_144307_LR)

Bhutan: For Dramitse Na Cham, dancers wear yellow skirt and animal masks while beating a drum or banging cymbals at the Tshechu of Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_144722_LR)

Bhutan: For Dramitse Na Cham, dancers wear yellow skirt and animal masks while beating a drum or banging cymbals at the Tshechu of Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_150923_LR)

Bhutan: For Dramitse Na Cham, dancers wear yellow skirt and animal masks while beating a drum or banging cymbals at the Tshechu of Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_151623_LR)

Bhutan: For Dramitse Na Cham, dancers wear yellow skirt and animal masks while beating a drum at the Tshechu of Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_151644_LR)

Bhutan: Monk dressed to lead musicians in Guru Tschen Gyed peeks from behind dressing room curtain at Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_153153_LR)

Bhutan: Young monk makes entrance with horn for Guru Tshen Gyed dance of Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche for Tshechu at Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_153324_LR)

Bhutan: Masked Dancer waits to make entrance for Guru Tschen Gyed dance at Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_153817_LR)

Bhutan: Monk dressed as one of the Eight Manifestations carries rice bowl during Tshechu in Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_153840_A_LR)

Bhutan: Monk dressed as Mandarava, the Lady of Wisdom, enters dance of Eight Manifestations with Guru Rinpoche at Tshechu in Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_154157_LR)

Bhutan: Monk dressed as Guru Rinpoche is helped by other monks as he prepares to enter the Guru Tshen Gyed masked dance during the Tshechu at Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_154205_LR)

Bhutan: Novice monk watches Guru Tshen Gyed masked dance during Tshechu in Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_154322_LR)

Bhutan: Two monks dressed as Terrifying Dieties wait to join Eight Manifestations masked dance at Tshechu in Gom Kora, Bhutan (Bhutan_080316_154339_LR)

Bhutan: Novice monk lends a hand to those Monks masked as Guru Rinpoche, Mandarava (Lady of Wisdom) and Yeshey Tsogyel (Mother of all Buddhas) at Tscechu in Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_154939_LR)

Bhutan: Monks participate in masked dance of Eight Manifestations during Tshechu at Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_155112_LR)

Bhutan: Monks participate in masked dance of Eight Manifestations during Tshechu at Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_160000_LR)

Bhutan: Wearing knee-length yellow skirts and golden crowns (rina) and playing a small prayer bell and hand drum, monks perform the Pa Cham Dance of Heroes celebrating the Rinpoche during the Tshechu at Gom Kora, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080316_161835_LR)

Bhutan: The only cross country road twists and winds through dense forests, gaining altitude between Trashigang and Mongar, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080317_093518_LR)

Bhutan: Morning tea in front of shop (Bhutan_080310_071656_LR)

Bhutan: Man in gho with traditional bamboo backpack at general store that sells canvas backpacks, Trashigang, Bhutan (Bhutan_080315_173400_LR)

Bhutan: Douptho Hotel with movie poster and prayer wheel outside, TV inside, at Trashigang, Bhutan (Bhutan_080315_173614_LR)

Bhutan: Elderly mother and adult daughter walked miles to attend puja celebration at Karchu Dratsang monastery in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_080902_LR)

Bhutan: Monk in attendance of puja celebration at Karchu Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_080918_LR)

Bhutan: A young mother dressed in contemporary style carries her warmly dressed baby in the traditional manner while and old man prays turning and prayer wheel and counting his beads in Mongar, Bhutan (Bhutan_080317_104822_LR)

Bhutan: Trees enshouded by clouds and fog at 3333 mtrs on the approach to Thrumsing La's 3700 in eastern Bhutan. (Bhutan_080317_154719_LR)

Bhutan: Minority man works with handmade tools to renovate Trashigang Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_080315_164816_LR)

Bhutan: Almost all woodworking is done by hand; here a man squares lumber with a large knife. Trashigang Dzong, Bhutan (Bhutan_080315_165336_LR)

Bhutan: Local nomadic people load their pack animals with traditional bamboo and hide panniers for the arduous trek home in the mountains of central Bhutan. (Bhutan_080317_170025_LR)

Bhutan: Monk in ceremonial attire watches for beginning of celebration of puja at Karchu Dratsang Lakhang Namkeh Nyinpo Goembpa in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_082639_LR)

Bhutan: Monks put on special robes for puja at Dratsang Lhakhang in Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080312_160030_LR)

Bhutan: Monks wear special Yellow Hats and robes of the Nyingma sect for puja at Karchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080312_161402_LR)

Bhutan: Monks, wearing special Yellow Hats and robes of the Nyingma sect for puja watch terrifying diety at Karchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080312_162540_LR)

Bhutan: Monks wear special Yellow Hats and robes of the Nyingma sect for puja in main assembly room at Karchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080312_164902_LR)

Bhutan: The head lama and founder, Namkhei Nyingpo Rinpoche, leads his Nyingma monks in a fire-puja ceremony at Karchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080313_093707_CF_LR)

Bhutan: The head lama and founder, Namkhei Nyingpo Rinpoche, leads his Nyingma monks in a fire-puja ceremony at Karchu Dratsang Lhakhang, Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080313_095906_CF_LR)

Bhutan: Folk singers wait with novice monks for the begining of puja at Karchu Dratsang monastery in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_083433_LR)

Bhutan: Monk of Nyingmama wearing Nike socks carries long, extendable horn that will be used in puja at Karchu Dratsang monastery in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_083258_LR)

Bhutan: Monks of the Yellow Hat Nyingma sect of Mahayana Buddhism sound horns announcing the beginning of a ceremonial puja at the Namkhe Nyingpo Goembpa in central Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_092512_LR)

Bhutan: Masked dancers perform in the Tibetan style with flags and fake cranial bones at Namkhe Nyingpo Goembpa in Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_101350_LR)

Bhutan: Masked dancers perform in the Tibetan style with flags and fake cranial bones at Namkhe Nyingpo Goembpa in Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_102527_LR)

Bhutan: Masked dancers perform in the Tibetan style with flags and fake cranial bones at Namkhe Nyingpo Goembpa in Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_102555_LR)

Bhutan: Masked dancers perform in the Tibetan style with flags and fake cranial bones at Namkhe Nyingpo Goembpa in Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_103054_LR)

Bhutan: Masked dancers perform in the Tibetan style with flags and fake cranial bones at Namkhe Nyingpo Goembpa in Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_103603_A_LR)

Bhutan: Terrifying diety in elaborately brocade dress and leather boots dances at puja in Karchu Dratsang monastery, Bhutan (Bhutan_080318_093114_LR)

Bhutan: Mother carries baby with traditional backstrap at Karchu Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_110941_LR)

Bhutan: Elderly man in traditional gho worn throughout Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_111848_LR)

Bhutan: Young girl wearing traditional attire with bright modern shoes plays with her gameboy while making traditional obligatory turns of the prayer wheel at entrance to Karchu Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_112040_LR)

Bhutan: Atsara clown, holding one phallus and wearing another on his head, entertains a young monk at Karchu Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_142035_LR)

Bhutan: First Black Hat Dancer in concentration of the ground meditation at Karchu Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_143541_LR)

Bhutan: Black Hat Dancers enter the performance area from Sancturary of Karchu Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan (Bhutan_080318_143715_LR)

Bhutan: Black Hat Dancer with prayer bell, ceremonial dagger, and blue banners spins in meditative consecration of the ground at Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_143946_LR)

Bhutan: Black Hat Dancer with prayer bell, ceremonial dagger, and blue banners spins in meditative consecration of the ground at Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_144117_LR)

Bhutan: Black Hat Dancer with prayer bell, ceremonial dagger, and blue banners spins in meditative consecration of the ground at Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_144255_LR)

Bhutan: Black Hat Dancer with prayer bell, ceremonial dagger, and blue banners spins in meditative consecration of the ground at Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_144601_LR)

Bhutan: Black Hat Dancer with prayer bell, ceremonial dagger, and blue banners spins in meditative consecration of the ground at Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_145429_LR)

Bhutan: Black Hat Dancer with prayer bell, ceremonial dagger, and blue banners spins in meditative consecration of the ground at Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_145954_LR)

Bhutan: Monk in skull mask dances Durdag cham as Lord of Cremation Ground at Karchu Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan (Bhutan_080318_160001_A_LR)

Bhutan: Atsar evokes smiles and laughter between religious dances at Karchu Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan (Bhutan_080318_152208_LR)

Bhutan: Monks intently watch Chams--masked dances--performed for their instruction and entertainment at Karchu Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan (Bhutan_080318_165125_LR)

Bhutan: Namkhei Nyingpo Rinpoche and other high lamas watch ceremonial puja at the monastery he founded and sponsors in Bumthang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_151619_LR)

Bhutan: Lama plays cymbals as accompaniment for Sha Cham at Karchu Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan (Bhutan_080318_170203_LR)

Bhutan: Dressed in golden crowns with aprons of symbolic bones, monks enter the consecrated grounds for performance of Pa Cham at Karchu Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080318_165601_LR)

Bhutan: Monks wearing golden crowns and aprons of symbolic bones play hand drums and prayer bells during Pa Cham, Dance of Heroes, at Karchu Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan (Bhutan_080318_170244_LR)

Bhutan: Monks wearing golden crowns and aprons of symbolic bones play hand drums and prayer bells during Pa Cham, Dance of Heroes, at Karchu Dratsang Lakhang, Bhutan (Bhutan_080318_170635_LR)

Bhutan: Sunrise illuminates Chamkhar (also known as Bumthang) the largest town in the province of Bumthang, Bhutan (Bhutan_080319_065655_LR)

Bhutan: Fog and low clouds engulf trees at the summit of Yotang La, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080319_094334_LR)

Bhutan: Fog and low clouds engulf trees at the summit of Yotang La, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080319_095231_LR)

Bhutan: Blooming rhododendron around Nepali-style chorten at Chendebji, Bhutan (Bhutan_080319_134238_LR)

Bhutan: Offering holy water as part of puja prayer ceremony at Chendebji Chorten Sanctuary, Bhutan (Bhutan_080319_135649_LR)

Bhutan: Mani wall with sanskrit and symbol of prayer 'O Mani Pema' leads to Chendeji Chorten, Bhutan (Bhutan_080319_140017_LR)

Bhutan: Mother with her two young sons at bamboo production camp near Pele La, Bhutan (Bhutan_080319_143128_LR)

Bhutan: Woman weaves bamboo mats near Pele La, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080319_143506_LR)

Bhutan: Young woman near Pele La, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080319_143940_LR)

Bhutan: Potato farm land below Pele La, Bhutan (Bhutan_080319_145147_LR)

Bhutan: Rice terrance along Dang-chu gorge, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080319_163709_LR)

Bhutan: Everyone, women especially, wear their best attire and jewelry to the Paro Tshechu in Bhutan. (Bhutan_080320_133717_LR)

Bhutan: Itinerant monk with tashi gomang portable alter collects donations for special offerings at Paro Tsechu, Bhutan (Bhutan_080320_134844_LR)

Bhutan: Dancer wearing stag mask leaps through the air with magnificent Dzong in background, during Paro Tshechu in Bhutan. (Bhutan_080320_135548_LR)

Bhutan: Dancers wearing knee-length yellow skirts and animal masks beat large drums during Dramitse Na Cham of Paro Tshechu in Bhutan (Bhutan_080320_142247_LR)

Bhutan: A leaping dancer wearing knee-length yellow skirts and animal masks beats large drum during Dramitse Na Cham of Paro Tshechu in Bhutan. (Bhutan_080320_142306_LR)

Bhutan: Leaping dancers wearing knee-length yellow skirts and animal masks beat large drums during Dramitse Na Cham of Paro Tshechu in Bhutan (Bhutan_080320_142459_LR)

Bhutan: Leaping dancer wearing knee-length yellow skirts and animal masks beats large drums during Dramitse Na Cham of Paro Tshechu in Bhutan (Bhutan_080320_142833_LR)

Bhutan: Dancers wearing knee-length yellow skirts and animal masks beat large drums during Dramitse Na Cham of Paro Tshechu in Bhutan (Bhutan_080320_143749_LR)

Bhutan: Two older nuns at Paro Tshechu, Bhutan (Bhutan_080320_150220_LR)

Bhutan: Snow covered mountains at sunset from Paro town, Bhutan (Bhutan_080320_175539_LR)

Bhutan: This large embroidered thondrol showing the Guru Rinpoche, Padmasambhava and his retinue is one of the largest thankhas in Bhutan. It is displayed before sunrise above offerings and butter lamps on the last day of the Paro Tshechu, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_052314_LR)

Bhutan: The large embroidered thondrol showing the Guru Rinpoche, Padmasambhava and his retinue is one of the largest thankhas in Bhutan. It is displayed before sunrise above offerings and butter lamps on the last day of the Paro Tshechu, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_054505_LR)

Bhutan: The last day of the Tshechu begins with a puja lead by the head lama of the Paro Dzong, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080321_055749_LR)

Bhutan: At the foot of the large Padmasambhava thankha at monk offers each person in a long queue a blessing by touching their head with a large thunderbolt Dorji at the beginning of the last day of the Paro Tshechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080321_060422_LR)

Bhutan: Seeing the great Thankha is considered a life-blessing; people offer special prayers of devotion standing in front of it. (Bhutan_080321_060954_LR)

Bhutan: During the morning puja for the last day of the Tshechu, monks offer rice to the devout. Paro, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080321_061735_LR)

Bhutan: A nun spins a gold and silver prayer wheel which offers hundreds of prayers at each turn with the magnificent Padmasambvaha thankha in the background at the Paro Tshechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080321_063042_LR)

Bhutan: A man in traditional gho lights two sets of incense sticks to offer at the foot of the Padmasambvaha thankha on the last morning of the Paro Tschechu, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_063601_LR)

Bhutan: Devotees, in their finest attire, wait in a very long queue to receive blessings at the foot of the Guru Rinpoche thankha displayed on the last day of the Paro Tshechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080321_064127_LR)

Bhutan: Every Tshechu is a time for much social interaction, gossiping, picnics, and general good times. People come from miles around, dressed in their best attire, to see and be seen at the Paro Tshechu, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080321_091137_LR)

Bhutan: Novice monks try on masks used during the Tshechu at Paro, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_091455_LR)

Bhutan: Masks and garb of the Terrifying Dieties used in dances throughout the Tshechu in Paro, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080321_091514_LR)

Bhutan: Two novice monks with masks used during Tshechu at Paro, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_091737_LR)

Bhutan: Young monk ties on another a mask used during the Tshechu at Paro, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_091943_LR)

Bhutan: Two young monks try one the masks of the Lady of Wisdom and the Lady of Knowledge used during the Tshechu in Paro, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_092302_LR)

Bhutan: Head lama gives instruction to another lama regarding the masks used in the Guru Tshcen Gyed dance performed at the Tschechu in Paro, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080321_092613_LR)

Bhutan: Two monks carry an elaborately carved and painted butter sculpture during a procession in the Tshechu of Paro, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_095411_LR)

Bhutan: Monks carry the reliquary altar during a procession at the Tschechu of Paro, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_095511_LR)

Bhutan: Head lama with burning incense watches the start of a procession at the Tschechu of Paro, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_101504_LR)

Bhutan: Monks with horns and incense burner wait for their moment to enter a procession at the Tshechu of Paro, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080321_101559_LR)

Bhutan: Monks in elaborate robes beat drums during last morning procession of Tshech in Paro, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_102132_LR)

Bhutan: Monks in elaborate robes beat drums during last morning procession of Tshech in Paro, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_102159_LR)

Bhutan: Monks in elaborate robes play cymbals during last morning procession of Tshech in Paro, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_102732_LR)

Bhutan: Monks in elaborate robes play long and short horns during last morning procession lamas and dignitaries at Tshech in Paro, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_102934_LR)

Bhutan: Young girl in finest attire watches last morning procession of Tshechu at Paro, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_103508_LR)

Bhutan: People, even monks on roof tops, crowd Dzong to watch Pa Cha Dance of Heroes at Paro Tshechu, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_104307_LR)

Bhutan: Dancers simultaneous leap into air during Pacham, Dance of Heroes, during Tshechu at Paro, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080321_110114)

Bhutan: Advertisement for acceptance of credit cards at handicrafts market. Unitl 2008, credit cards were only usable in a few establishments in all of Bhutan. (Bhutan_080321_115350_LR)

Bhutan: At typical store, shoppers in traditional attire request items while standing outside at windows. This store sells newly available mobile phone vouchers and movie tickets. Paro, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080321_120346_LR)

Bhutan: Four girls wearing modern high heels and dressed in modern versions of traditional kira, cross square with movie poster in Paro, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_121419_LR)

Bhutan: Arrow leaving traditional hand-made bow at archery contest near Paro, Bhutan (Bhutan_080321_151738_A_LR)

Bhutan: Legendary Takshang (Tiger's Nest) monastery, accessible only by a narrow footpath, is situated on steep cliff above the Paro Valley, Bhutan (Bhutan_080322_094220_LR)

Bhutan: Prayer flags announce arrival at a propitious spot: Takshang (Tiger's Nest) monastery high above the Paro Valley, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080322_110535_LR)

Bhutan: Prayer flags stretch across steep narrow gorge to precipitously located Takshang, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080322_110810)

Bhutan: Prayer flags encompass site of mediation rooms near Takshang Gombpa (Tiger's Nest monastery) in the cleft of a steep gorge high above Paro Valley, Bhutan. (Bhutan_080322_112408_LR)

Bhutan (Bhutan_0010184-03)

Bhutan (Bhutan_0109031-20)

Bhutan (Bhutan_0109050-26)

Bhutan (Bhutan_0109069)

Bhutan (Bhutan_0209016-07)

Bhutan (Bhutan_0209022-13)

Bhutan (Bhutan_0209056-32)

Bhutan (Bhutan_050913_073954)

Bhutan (Bhutan_050913_103911)

Bhutan (Bhutan_081009_054544)

Bhutan (Bhutan_081013_101428)

Bhutan (Bhutan_081109_113533)

Bhutan (Bhutan_081117_082030)

Bhutanese Monk with Traditional Musical Instrument (bhutan00800-55A)

Black Hat Dance (bhutan001011030)

Black Hat Dance (bhutan-0109-46-13)

Black Hat Dancer (bhutan980929-R512)

Chorten in the Fog (00800-280a)

Counting Prayers (bhutan001015213)

Dorji Chakar, Tantric Monk at Chakhar Lhakhang Temple (bhutan-0109-37-29)

Elders praying (Bhutan_01079-22)

Girl in Window (bhutan001011033)

Girl Knitting Blue Material in Front of Blue Hotel (bhutan0010115517)

Girls in Silk Kiras at Wangdiphodrang Festival (bhutan990214726)

Girls in Traditional Dress, Punakha (bhutan00800-138A)

Inside the Temple (9902159-23)

Itinerant Monk (9902135-18)

Jumping Masked Dancer (bhutan00108231)

King's Lama at Chorten (bhutan00103316)

Lama offers prayers (bhutan-0109-89-16)

Laya Nomad Wearing Dowry and Traditional Reed Hat (Bhutan_00800-00104-00A)

Masked Dancer (bhutan00108228)

Masked Dancers, Punahka Festival (00800-147a)

Masked Demon Spirit Dance (bhutan-0109-45-3)

Masked demon with sword (bhutan-0109-21-5)

Masked monk dances in air (bhutan-0109-19-29)

Masked Spirit Dancers (bhutan00800-148A)

Masked Stag Dance (bhutan_001011926)

Mongolian Pony (9902135-14a)

Monk Dancing with Bell and Drum (bhutan00107714)

Monk Dancing with Hand Drum (Bhutan_0010078-12)

Monk in Black Hat Dance (bhutan-0109-47-12)

Monks at entrance to inner courtyard (bhutan-0109-34-24)

Monks at King's Memorial Chorten (0010030-09)

Monks Consider a Philosophical Point (bhutan00103821)

Monks Line Children Outside Temple (9902130-22)

Monks Reading Prayers at King's Memorial Chorten (bhutan00103400)

Monks with prayer books (bhutan-0109-78-23)

Noble Peasant (980930-71)

Old women with prayer wheels & prayer beads (bhutan-0109-13-05)

Prayer offerings at King's Memorial Chorten (bhutan-0109-88-21)

Trail to Tiger's Nest (bhutan00102802)

Tsechu Shacham Dance, Wangdi Dzong: Deer Dancer (Bhutan_9809036-25)

Two Boys on Street Bench (9902114-8)

Two Young Boys on Steps of Temple (9902132-06)

Water-driven prayer wheel and Buddha mural (bhutan-0109-85-27)

Woman praying with prayer wheel (bhutan-0109-779-15)

Woman with prayer wheel at larger prayer wheel (bhutan-0109-13-36)

Woman with prayer wheel at main prayer wheel (bhutan-0109-39-13)

Women praying with beads and wheels (bhutan-0109-79-35)

Young Bhutanese Monks (00800-00265)

Bhutan Landscapes