Beyul

Beyuls are places that were sanctified by Guru Padmasambhava as places of refuge for the followers of Buddhism in times of crises. They are usually Himalayan valleys adjoining Tibet and are of stunning natural beauty where one can find equanimity and peace. It might come as no surprise that Khumbu is one of the beyuls in which man and nature has lived in perfect harmony for centuries. Anyone encountering the trusting Tahr or Snowcock in Khumbu will be able to see how this belief has translated into reality here. In this folklore is a lesson and opportunity for conservationists, as the purpose of a beyul is identical to that of nature conservation. It is not guns and fences that protect nature, but the realization of the sacred nature of the landscape.