An Ancient Spiritual Haven in the Himalaya Yongbu Dor Monastery
Yongbu Dor Monastery, known by its full name “Wokmin Sangchen Thekchoede Choeling”, is a revered site perched on the slopes of an island in the southwest of Yamdrok Lake, within the Nagartse County. Established in the 16th century by Renzin Döje Nyima, this monastery is an integral part of the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Yongbu Dor is celebrated for its succession of Tulkus, with a lineage extending across 11 generations.
The Tara Stone and Architectural Wonders in Yamdrok Lake
This sacred monastery is named after a distinct, naturally formed stone that resembles the Twenty-One Taras, a venerated figure in Buddhism. This “Field of Blessings” stone is said to be visible only to those who are spiritually destined. Yongbu Dor’s key architectural features include the Labrang, Rongkang, Dukhang, Mongkhang, Terma Khang, and a striking three-tiered Red Palace. Within these walls reside esteemed statues of Sakyamuni Buddha, Vajradhara, and Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), along with artefacts of immense historical, cultural, and artistic value.
A Site of Mystical Legends and Pilgrimage in Yamdrok Lake: Yongbu Dor Monastery
The Yongbu Dor Monastery is uniquely situated on an island in Yamdrok Lake and can be reached only by boat. The surrounding mountains, blessed by Guru Rinpoche, are a site of pilgrimage. The peaks are adorned with 25 cypress trees, each symbolizing the spirit of one of Guru Rinpoche’s 25 disciples. The eastern part of the mountain houses his meditation cave, while the south features the retreat of Dakini Yeshe Tsogyal. Additionally, the mountain is graced with Guru Rinpoche’s hand and foot imprints, adding to its sacredness.
Tips for Visiting Yongbu Dor Monastery
- Admission: Free, allowing for unrestricted exploration.
- Opening Hours: The monastery welcomes visitors from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
- Access: Reachable by road, visitors have the option of renting a vehicle or driving themselves to this tranquil destination.
Embark on a journey to the Yongbu Dor Monastery, a sanctuary of peace and spirituality nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas.
