There are basically two kinds of hidden lands: those physically located on the earth's surface and those which exist in dimensions, so to speak, other than the present world, but which can be entered by certain individuals. Strictly speaking, the Tibetan word sbas yttl or beyul refers only to the first kind, while the second kind are normally referred to as Khacho (mkha' spyod). Beyul are regions, secret valleys, etc., specially blessed and sealed by Guru Padmasambhava, and other beings of great spiritual attainment, as places of protection for the teachings in later times of decadence and peril. Except in the case of people with special karma and good fortune, they cannot be entered, or even perceived. [LLB 2002]