A Journey into Tibet’s Sacred Heritage
Elevated Sanctuary in Tibet: Dongkar Choede Temple, known locally as Qude Temple, is a unique spiritual haven located in the picturesque countryside of Supo County, Longzi County, Tibet. Standing at an altitude of 4,070 meters, this temple is a fascinating destination for those interested in Tibetan history and spiritual traditions.
A Rich Historical Tapestry: Founded during the Tubo period, Dongkar Choede once housed 105 monks, illustrating its historical significance in the region. It serves as a living testament to the vibrant cultural and religious practices of ancient Tibet.
Architectural Wonders of Dongkar Choede
Zubulakang: A Monumental Structure: The temple’s main building, Zubulakang, is a remarkable example of traditional Tibetan architecture. This 22-meter-tall structure comprises two levels: the upper level functioning as a monk’s dormitory and storage, and the lower level housing essential spiritual chambers.
The Porch and Sacred Halls: The temple’s porch, notable for its two octagonal columns and stone lotus bases, spans about 35 square meters. This leads to the Dukang Hall, a large room extending over 300 square meters, marked by its 30 strategically placed square columns.
Inside the Temple: Murals and Sanctuaries
Dukang Hall’s Artistic Heritage: The Dukang Hall is renowned for its exquisite murals covering all four walls, depicting various aspects of Tibetan Buddhism. It also houses an impressive collection of sutras, adding to its religious significance.
Zhankang and Jampa Buddha Halls: Adjacent to the main hall is Zhankang, covering around 43 square meters. It houses an 8-meter tall clay statue of the Third Buddha and his disciples. The Jampa Buddha Hall, situated in the northeast corner of the main hall, spans approximately 13 square meters and contains a revered clay statue of Jampa Buddha.
Dongkar Choede Temple’s Cultural Legacy
Intangible Cultural Heritage: Dongkar Choede Temple’s significance extends beyond its physical structures. It has been recognized as part of the fourth batch of Tibet Autonomous Region-level intangible cultural heritage, underlining its cultural and historical value.
Why Visit Dongkar Choede Temple?
Cultural and Spiritual Exploration: Dongkar Choede Temple offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Tibetan Buddhism. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of Tibetan culture, history, and spirituality.
Photogenic and Educational Destination: Photographers and history buffs will find Dongkar Choede a treasure trove of artistic and historical subjects, with its ancient murals and traditional Tibetan architecture.
A Peaceful Retreat: The temple’s serene setting in the Tibetan countryside makes it a perfect spot for contemplation and relaxation, away from the fast pace of modern life.
Dongkar Choede Temple stands as a beacon of Tibetan spiritual and cultural heritage. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and sacred art make it a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Tibet. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a cultural enthusiast, or a curious traveller, Dongkar Choede promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.
Dongkar Choede Temple: A Canvas of Spiritual Art
Highlights of the Temple’s Murals
① Dukang Hall Murals: A Spectrum of Tibetan Mythology
The Dukang Hall in Dongkar Choede Temple is a magnificent gallery of ancient murals, each wall telling a unique story:
- South Wall: This wall features celestial depictions, including the vigilant god of heaven with six arms and the bull-headed Vajra statues. The ends of the wall highlight the steadfast female Danma and the temple’s protector God Gongbu, surrounded by the auspicious Heavenly Mother and other divine figures.
- West Wall: Journeying from south to north, visitors will encounter an array of smaller statues. These include depictions of Sakyamuni Buddha (as part of the Small Thousand Buddhas), Sixteen Arhats, and significant figures in Tantric Buddhism such as Manjushri, Avalokitesvara, and Vajrapani.
- North Wall: This wall is dedicated to Tsongkhapa, a revered figure in Tibetan Buddhism, surrounded by his disciples and predecessors.
- East Wall: The “Tshes-lha-rnam-gsum” (three longevity statues), along with Amitayus Buddha, founder Gevasini Yundanluochui Gyaltsen, and narratives from the life of Sakyamuni Buddha, are elegantly portrayed here.
The ceiling of the main hall adds another layer of spiritual grandeur, featuring Tsongkhapa, Maitreya Buddha, Sakyamuni, Atisha, Zhongdunpa, White Tara, and Green Tara. These are surrounded by intricate patterns representing nature’s elements, adding to the mural’s decorative allure.
② Jiangba Buddha Hall Murals: A Red Canvas of Elegance
The Jiangba Buddha Hall’s murals stand out with their distinctive red base and delicate “gossamer” lines. The use of blue, grey, and red in outlining clothing and white for skin and body details creates a striking contrast. The murals employ a “flat painting method,” characterized by round, plump images, balanced lines, and a palette of elegant, subdued colours.
The masterpiece “Buddha’s Biography: Out of the Four Gates at Night” is a prime example of this style. The mural is structured in three layers, with the upper layer adorned with a lotus pattern. The central focus is a horseman, depicted with a corolla and holding reins and a whip, leading a procession of attendants in detailed attire.
These murals are significant for their early Tibetan Buddhist art characteristics, representing the “Pre-Propagation Period” and holding immense cultural value.
Conclusion
The Dongkar Choede Temple, with its stunning murals in the Dukang and Jiangba Buddha Halls, offers visitors a vivid glimpse into the rich tapestry of Tibetan Buddhist art and mythology. Each mural is not just a visual treat but also a narrative of the spiritual and cultural ethos that shaped early Tibetan Buddhism.
