bhutan architecture life and people

since i didn't conclude my posts on Bhutan...i thought i might do so today and then later in the day share with you what i have been up to recently :)
these are images depicting the life in Bhutan...its people and architecture.
"Paan"(beetle nut, chuna/lime wrapped in a beetle nut leaf) forms an integral part of the life system in Bhutan. almost everyone from children to adults are seen chewing it all through the day. most end up with red mouths!
the older women in Bhutan all have short hair...and it is the longer haired younger women that are considered more fashionable..a result of the bollywood influence!
an average Bhutanese meal consists of green chillies, cheese, potatoes and meat.
Most goods found in Bhutan are imported from India and now Bangkok.
Mask making is still a living craft and Monks wear them during the performances during the spring festivals.
most of the Bhutan is rural but is really clean and pure. you need to pre inform restaurants in most parts if you want a good satisfying meal especially if you are travelling off season like we did!

all the construction in Bhutan is regulated by the government and hence the houses and the monasteries across Bhutan look similar. the use of rich reds, indigo, yellow and gold offset by the white of the walls gives the architecture a stunning appeal.
walls are painted inside and outside with drawings of lions, tigers, dear, goats and penises...yes thats right....you find symbolic and literal representation of the penis on every corner. it is supposed to protect the house and its occupants from evil. we were even blessed by a wooden penis in a monastery famous for it miraculous fertility powers :)

I'll be happy to share the itinerary incase you are interested...all you need to do is ask :)