Bhutan - Monk Body Returns to Thimphu

And then the monks arrived.
We were told the Je Khenpo was not feeling well and not part of the processional. I imagine this was a bit of a disappointment to the crowd gathered but there was, nevertheless, plenty blessing to go round.
Monks gave blessings to and poured oil on the head of every single person. In addition to that, a blessed "scarf", a long piece of sheer cloth from the golden shrine to the Buddha that was mounted on the bed of a small truck, was passed over every head.

There were several large buses transporting monks as well. In the first picture you will see, mounted to the window of the bus, a picture of the king. The king and the Je Khenpo share equally the responsibility of governing the country. They are both revered as dieties.

Over a period of about 2 1/2 hours the processional traveled about 2 miles. It ended finally at a specially prepared site where the welcoming ceremony took place. Only monks and officials of the highest order were allowed into that site.

Across from this place, however, the families of the very young monks gathered in a lovely riverside park. From the park they had a good view of the end of the processional as well as some fine spots for picnics.( No bull.)

Next I will show you some pictures from the park. It was really a happy place and startling too with little robed monk trainees running around, giggling and even debating.