paro dzong

we made it into the dzong about 30 minutes before closing time. it was similar in structure to the other dzongs. and once again tshe tshe took us into the inner temples, and described all the statues in the alters and stories behind the murals painted on the walls. 

the inner temples are so rich with ornamentation and storytelling that each one blows me away anew. with so much repetition, the stories are becoming slightly familiar, and I am able to pick out some of the central characters... but I am only scratching the surface of comprehending how Buddhism is woven into all aspects of life thought and culture in Bhutan. it is a lovely foundation, and one that people choose freely how they live it. 

the 8 auspicious symbols... dharma wheel, 2 umbrellas, the fish, lotus, infinite knot, conch shell.