236 
SCENES IN INDIA. 
delightful. The entire length of the valley through 
which the last-mentioned river passes is planted with 
pine-trees, the branches of which overhang the stream 
and cast a refreshing shade on the land side, exclud- 
ing the ardent rays of the sun reflected from the slopes 
of the hills. 
The pavilion in which the Rajah receives all 
strange guests is supported on high pillars, commo- 
dious, light, and airy. It is ascended by a broad 
strong ladder, the upper story only, as is the case 
with all houses in Boutan, being inhabited, — for the 
lower is invariably made a receptacle for lumber, 
implements of husbandry, and similar things : in 
many dwellings cattle are stalled in the lower cham- 
bers. Within the Rajah’s garden is an elegant sum- 
mer-house, containing three rooms on a floor, whi- 
ther the prince during his stay at Ponaka frequently 
retires to the enjoyment of a temporary solitude, by 
way of relaxation from the frequent excitements and 
vexations of state business. 
This palace is the Rajah’s winter residence, and was 
the favourite of that prince, who governed Boutan 
at the time of Captain Turner’s visit. It is said he 
expended a considerable sum of money in enlarging 
and adorning it. The internal decorations, therefore, of 
this royal residence are much more splendid than those 
of any other palace in the district. Strangers are not 
admitted ; — an order so strictly enforced, that a bribe 
fails to purchase the least relaxation of the court 
restriction. The gardens are open to the inspection 
of strangers, and contain a great variety of fruits, 
among which are peaches, apples, and pears ; but 
