Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom

Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom

Year: 2019

Runtime: 109 mins

Language: Dzongkha

Director: Pawo Choyning Dorji

Echo Score: 88
DramaMoving relationship storiesStudent coming-of-age challengesHumanity's odyssey: earth and beyondCaptivating relationships and charming romance

Seeking inspiration, a teacher journeys to Lunana, a remote village in the Himalayas, home to the world's most isolated school. Immersed in the unique culture and breathtaking landscape, he rediscovers the purpose of his profession and gains a newfound appreciation for the local way of life, including the practical use of yak dung as a vital resource.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom (2019)

Trace every key event in Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom (2019) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Ugyen accepts Lunana assignment and leaves Thimphu

Despite his reluctance, Ugyen agrees to take the teaching post in Lunana after his grandmother urges him to complete the assignment. He packs his belongings and says goodbye to the city, setting out on a long journey toward the remote village. The decision marks the start of a life far from his familiar comforts.

Before departure Thimphu
2

The six day trek to Lunana begins

Ugyen enlists Michen, the village guide, and they begin a grueling six day ascent to Lunana. The path climbs through rugged terrain at high altitude, testing his resolve and stamina. The landscape grows more isolated as they push toward the mountain village.

Six days Along the path to Lunana
3

First arrival in Lunana and initial doubt

The villagers greet him with warmth, but Ugyen is stunned by the scarce conditions and considers turning back. Asha explains that the mules need rest and that a return trip could be possible in a few days. The sense of hardship clashes with the villagers hospitality.

First day after arrival Lunana
4

Decision to stay for the school year

Pem Zam awakens him to see eager children waiting in the classroom and reminding him that their future depends on his teaching. He feels overwhelmed but decides to stay for the remainder of the year. The sense of duty begins to outweigh his initial reluctance.

Day after arrival Lunana
5

Improvised classroom and teaching supplies

With no blackboard, Ugyen improvises by writing on the wall with charcoal, making do with whatever they have. Michen later constructs a makeshift blackboard, enabling more structured lessons. The improvisation marks the start of his practical approach to teaching in the village.

Early days of teaching Lunana classroom
6

Adapting the classroom and sacrifices

Ugyen slowly improves the classroom and even sacrifices scarce paper to cover the windows so the children can write. Asha remarks that the teacher may have been a yak in a past life, reflecting the village humor and resilience. The children respond with growing curiosity and affection.

During the school year Lunana
7

Ugyen becomes a favorite teacher

The students connect with his songs and lessons in math, English, and Dzongkha, and his popularity grows. They celebrate his presence but fear the day he must leave when winter arrives. His teaching brings light to the village in a difficult season.

Several months into teaching Lunana
8

Saldon introduces Yak Lebi Lhadar

Ugyen meets Saldon, who sings Yak Lebi Lhadar as offerings to the mountain spirits. They meet daily atop a hillside, and he slowly learns the song he comes to love. The hymn connects him to local traditions and the land surrounding Lunana.

Daily during stay Hillside above Lunana
9

Norbu the yak joins the classroom

Saldon gifts Ugyen a yak named Norbu, whose dung is used to start fires. Because of the cold, Norbu stays in the classroom and becomes part of the lessons, a living presence that shapes daily life. The animal's presence deepens the bond between teacher and students.

Winter period Lunana classroom
10

Winter nears and departure is considered

As winter approaches, Asha urges Ugyen to return before the pass is blocked by snow. He reveals his plan to leave Bhutan for good, which unsettles the community. The tension between duty and longing intensifies as the season closes in.

Winter Lunana
11

Farewell and memories

The villagers bid a heartfelt goodbye to Ugyen. Pem Zam presents a letter from all the children, and Saldon offers a white scarf as a keepsake. Asha sings Yak Lebi Lhadar, and Ugyen reads the letters on the descent, pausing at a shrine to offer a blessing for safe passage and hope for return.

Departure day / on the way down Lunana and shrine on descent
12

New life glimpsed: singing in Australia

In Australia, Ugyen performs Western songs in a bar, but the audience pays him little mind. He stops in frustration, then begins Yak Lebi Lhadar, moving the crowd and signaling a pull toward his roots as the credits begin. The ending juxtaposes his new life with the world he left behind.

Ending scene Australia (bar)

Last Updated: November 22, 2025 at 16:00

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom

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