Sacred Groves as Informal Protected Areas (بوتان)

A sacred grove is considered to be the home of the Local Deity of a region and is revered and protected by the people with respect and dedication. Here, a sacred grove of trees and undisturbed ground surround a majestic blue pine that is believed to be more than 350 years old.

A sacred grove is considered to be the home of the Local Deity of a region and is revered and protected by the people with respect and dedication. Here, a sacred grove of trees and undisturbed ground surround a majestic blue pine that is believed to be more than 350 years old.
The distinct feature of the approach is that it is undertaken by an informal group borne out of pure faith and dedication to their local hero and legend. In this case, people protect and conserve a particular sanctuary the size of two football pitches. Trees surround it with important signs and symptoms considered to serve the purpose of sacred offerings to the deity that saved the people of that locality in the 17th century AD.
In the middle is a tall blue pine tree that holds a prayer flag on its crown which is renewed once a year. It is believed to have been planted some 350 years ago to mark the victory of the people of Haa against Tibetan invaders. The victory of the Haaps was guaranteed by the magic and Herculaneum feat of Ap Chhundue who is said to have defeated every Tibetan soldier with a single slash in that very ground.
To revere him for his extraordinary deeds, people celebrate two types of occasions, decorating the surrounding trees and encircling the middle tree singing and citing words of praise to Ap Chhundue while holding a sword in one hand and a circular shield in another. The village's Pawo (oracle) performs his rituals, foretells the general predictions and warnings (if any) for the coming year, and suggests remedies and tips for a fruitful year ahead.
During the occasion, the trees that grow around are tied with colourful prayer flags and scarves. Different shapes and sizes of ritual cakes are made and kept in front of the sacred tree and a set of prayers is conducted by the monks led by the head lama of Haa Rabdey (monastic school). The sacred tree in the middle and other trees are included among the ritual cakes and have to be equally mentioned in the prayers that the monks recite. That is why these trees are left untouched.
As per the grandson of their former Ap Pawo (Astrologer/ Oracle) who never missed the events happening in that haven, he saw a connection and coexistence of three different backgrounds with one goal in mind, which was to preserve that sacred place and continue to pass it on to future generations.

In conclusion, the people of Haa not only preserve their culture and identity, but also preserve and promote the natural environment. No wonder Haa Dzongkhag (State) is still under 80% forest cover - contributing to a carbon-negative nation.