Valley Vistas
It’s a serene Sunday, I find myself seated on the side a dirt road, contemplating the breathtaking beauty of the valleys that surround me like never before.
The towering mountains, some adorned with snow-capped peaks, stand as silent sentinels, while the valley below hugs the earth with gentle grace, meandering between the peaks and spurs.
Surrounded by these majestic peaks, I can't help but feel a powerful effect on something deeper. It's as if being amidst something greater than ourselves alters my perspective, offering an insight into life and the things that really matter
My gaze is drawn to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, defiantly clinging to the cliff face across the valley. As I look over my left shoulder, I see the restored Drukgyel Dzong, an ancient fortress, which evokes a sense of reverence for the rich history of this land. Below me lies the village of Drukgyel, its modest buildings whispering tales of bygone times.
Despite its unassuming appearance, this village holds its own charm. Its tallest building, a mere four stories high, stands as a testament to the simplicity of life in this remote corner of the world. Yet amidst the crumbling mud brick structures and winding dirt roads, a mobile phone tower serves as a reminder of modern connectivity, in an otherwise timeless landscape.
As I venture into the forest behind me, I'm struck by the abundance of life all around. Perhaps it's the fresh mountain air or the invigorating exercise, but I swear to you that after a visit to the mountains I feel enormously better, it is as if tapping into a hidden wellspring of energy.
The rustling of pine leaves, the distant cooing of pigeons, and the occasional neigh of a horse (or mule – I’m not really sure) create a symphony of sounds, both familiar and foreign.
As I explore further up the mountain, I stumble upon an abandoned Army training camp, its cement slabs and painted rocks bearing witness to days gone by. A faded sign, bearing the motto "Don't limit your challenges, challenge your limits," feels right, reminding me of the power of facing challenges and overcoming obstacles. That’s why I came to Bhutan.
Back in Australia, I’d be drawn to couch and Netflix, but here in Bhutan, the mountains beckon me to wander, inviting me to rediscover parts of myself that have lain dormant for years. I feel both lost and like I've found myself - in ways I never knew I could.
My ascent continues towards a monastery perched atop the mountain summit, past prayer flags fluttering in the wind. The promise of a breathtaking view propels me forward, but the onset of rain serves as a gentle reminder that some adventures must wait for another day.
With a sense of acceptance and anticipation for the unseen, I retreat back to the warmth of my place, comforted by the knowledge that the mountains will still be there – like they have for millennia, ready to unveil their mysteries when the time is right.
