Perched high in the mountains, Kila Gompa sits nestled into the rocks like an eagle’s erie. Kutira had been several times to this magical dharma land.
Hugging the High Mountain
We drove up into the mountains and met these two nuns from the gompa at the beginning of the steep trail. They had started a fire, it was so cold waiting for us to arrive.
Because of my difficulty with uphill climbs Kutira, Raphael and I decided to take another trail, less steep. But it meant that we had to drive to the top of the Chelela Pass.
A wild and windswept spot, the traditional stack for making a smoke offering to the elemental deities was front and center.
Bhutanese are fond of adorning the high mountain passes.
The view of Ha Valley was spectacular
It was very very cold.
Prayer Flags abound. Certainly the perfect spot for the wind to take prayers to the far corners of the land.
The nuns were prepared to guide us. The red duffle is filled with red socks we brought from some of our wonderful Tara Dhatu friends.
Are you ready.....
Off we go......
Robin decided to take the more direct path and drove down with Dorje. Their hike was very steep.
On the way, this beautiful rock formation.
And then appearing above, Kila Goempa
We came upon the nunnery from the side.
We passed this poor little frozen stream.
The nuns were way ahead
I was way behind. Pelden was kind enough to keep me company. The trail was not straight up but it was steep in places and the altitude made going a little difficult for me.
And then I had to stop frequently, not only to catch my breath from the climb but to catch my breath from the beauty.
We were all to meet in the kitchen.
Kutira and Raphael were way ahead of me, warm and cozy waiting for lunch to be served.
Each cabin has a wood stove.
After lunch Kutira washed at the faucet. All of the water for the nunnery is gathered here.
And then we went into the prayer hall.
This unusual construction greeted us.
Raphael brought a smaller recording set up.
The nuns sang the Dewachen Prayer beautifully
I was pooped!!!!
And then out came the socks
There was a great deal of enthusiasm
The old Ani couldn’t believe it.......she looked at Robin to make sure it was really happening.
These look like a good fit....
Yes, perfect, happy feet.
And then it was time to go. Darkness fell fast and we had a long walk. Fortunately it was all down hill.
