Hidden in the northeastern part of Mangkang County, within Zongxi Township, Nyigo Monastery (Hyin-mgo-dgon) rises quietly at an elevation of 4,250 meters. The name Nyigo means “Crown of the Sacred Mountain” in Tibetan, a fitting title for a monastery believed to be infused with deep spiritual power.
Founded in the early 17th century, Nyigo Monastery belongs to the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism and has long been revered as a place of meditation, pilgrimage, and sacred blessing.
Origins Rooted in Milarepa’s Rainbow Cave
The spiritual origins of Nyigo Monastery are closely linked to Milarepa, one of Tibet’s greatest yogis. About three miles from the present monastery, Milarepa is said to have meditated in a remote cave. According to tradition, when he passed away, his body transformed into a brilliant rainbow, giving rise to the name “Rainbow Cave.”
This sacred cave remains one of the most revered sites in the area and laid the spiritual foundation for the later establishment of Nyigo Monastery.
Founding and Expansion of Nyigo Monastery
In the mid-17th century, Lama Jetsun Chögyal Gyatso founded Nyigo Monastery near the Rainbow Cave. Over the following two centuries, successive Nyingma masters gradually expanded the site, transforming it into a major spiritual center.
Key developments include:
- A temple constructed by Lama Renzin Dondup Dorje
- A towering nine-story statue of Guru Padmasambhava, created by Lama Renzin Longsa Ningpo through spiritual realization
- The introduction of “Good Living” consecration practices in the 18th century by Lama Men Lama Dashidorje, sanctifying the mountain, halls, scriptures, and sacred objects
This comprehensive consecration invited Buddhas and protective deities to dwell permanently within the monastery’s sacred space.
Sacred Relics and Spiritual Treasures
For generations, Nyigo Monastery safeguarded an extraordinary collection of religious treasures, reflecting the depth of Nyingma spiritual practice. These included:
- A 36-meter-tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava
- Numerous stupas and naturally formed Buddha images
- Sacred thrones, Tara images, and symbolic horses of past Buddhas
- Footprints, ritual objects, and ancient scriptures
During the Cultural Revolution, nearly all of these relics were destroyed, with the mani stone piles being the only major elements to survive. The monastery seen today was rebuilt in the 1970s, marking a spiritual revival of the site.
Currently, Nyigo Monastery is home to 65 monastics, including 32 lamas and 33 nuns, who continue daily prayers, rituals, and meditation practices.
The Vast Mani Stone Piles of Nyigo
One of Nyigo Monastery’s most striking features is its expansive mani stone piles, stretching across 2 to 3 kilometers. These stones are carved with mantras, sacred symbols, and prayers, reflecting centuries of devotion.
The scale and density of the carvings make them not only a religious offering but also a subject of ongoing archaeological and cultural study. Even today, new mani stones are regularly added, keeping the tradition alive.
Nyigo Natural Scenic Area and Sacred Landscape
In 1990, the Nyigo Natural Scenic Area was officially established, with the monastery at its spiritual center. The area contains numerous sacred sites, including:
- More than ten meditation caves
- Two naturally formed statues of Guru Padmasambhava—one 8 meters high on the front mountain and another 3 meters high on the back mountain
During the annual Saga Dawa Festival, the scenic area becomes a major pilgrimage destination, attracting large numbers of devotees who come to pray, circumambulate, and receive blessings.
Wildlife and Natural Beauty Around Nyigo Monastery
Beyond its religious significance, the Nyigo area is known for its rich high-altitude biodiversity. The surrounding mountains and valleys are home to protected wildlife, including:
- Deer and blue sheep
- Bears and leopards
- Blood pheasants and Tibetan snowcocks
Many of these animals are surprisingly approachable. Visitors are often able to feed them barley and salt and even take photographs, creating a rare and memorable interaction between nature and spirituality.
Practical Travel Information for Visitors
- Admission: Free entry; voluntary offerings are appreciated
- Distance: About 70 kilometers from Mangkang County town
- Transportation: Car rental typically costs 200–300 yuan (for reference) and allows easy access to both Nyigo Monastery and the surrounding scenic area
With its sacred caves, towering Guru Padmasambhava statues, vast mani stone fields, and pristine natural environment, Nyigo Monastery offers a powerful blend of spiritual depth, history, and Himalayan beauty.