Forgetful, pissed off me aside, I decided to just soak in views. Afterall, Kyichu Lhakhang, which was built in the 7th century, is the oldest Buddhist temple in all of Bhutan. It deserves attention.
Compared to the dzongs that I've visited on this trip, Kyichu is about 1000 years older.
The first thing that struck me as I approached Kyichu were the orange fabric valances that hung from it's eaves and atop every entrance.
There were beautiful trees on the temple's grounds and from their height and girth, my guess is that must be at least 100 years old if not more.
The temple had a small courtyard that housed a very old chorten. Just off the courtyard was a small prayer room. Kyichu's old age was most evident inside the prayer room - uneven stone walls, very old wooden beams and wide plank floors. You could just imagine how many devotees had spent time in this room - praying and giving offerings.
There really wasn't much to see inside Kyichu and it's grounds were relatively small as well. Leaving the courtyard, we circumvented the temple....spinning the prayer wheels that hugged the temples walls.
As I walked backed towards our van, I couldn't help but be amazed by what had just seen.....a 1500 year old building that is still standing and continues to function as a place of worship. What a great way to end my trip to Bhutan!
