Thimphu (Bhutan): The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge began their two-day tour of Bhutan after landing at Paro airport on Thursday morning. On arrival, the royal couple were greeted by the King’s sister Princess Chhimi Yangzom and her husband, and presented them with two ceremonial scarves each called Khadhar.
Prince William and Kate Middleton enjoyed a scenic drive through the capital city of Thimphu and also took part in the Chipdrel, a traditional welcome procession, complete with music, ceremonial dress, and plenty of colour.
Inside the Dzong, the Duke and Duchess met the King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema. Their Majesties then led The Duke and Duchess across the Dzong’s vast courtyard, which was beautifully decorated, across to a temple where they received a brief blessing with lit butter lamps.
Later today, the Duke and Duchess will see first-hand Bhutan’s awe-inspiring national sport of archery, where archers must aim at very small, brightly decorated wooden targets positioned 145 metres away from where they are standing.
The Duke and Duchess will also have the opportunity to meet young people from local schools and NGOs and see other traditional games. This evening, the Duke and Duchess will have a private dinner with The King and Queen at Lingkana Palace.
