Overview of Kading Temple
Location and Altitude: Kading Temple, known locally as kha-gdings, is situated in Supolu Village, Supoxia Township, Longzi County, at an impressive altitude of 4250 meters. This temple, originally adhering to the Kadam Sect during the “Latter Hong Period,” transitioned to the Gelug Sect after the 15th century. It now serves as the “Nirvana” (snye) main temple, also referred to as the West Temple. The temple currently houses 25 monks.
Architectural Highlights of Kading Temple
Centerpiece – Dukang Hall: The temple’s architecture revolves around the Dukang Hall, accompanied by the Dharma Protector Temple to its north.
Main Hall Structure: The main hall is a two-story building:
- Upper Floor: Functions as a reception room and a storage area, playing a crucial role in the temple’s administrative and logistical activities.
- Lower Floor: Comprises several key areas:
- Porch: Approximately 26 square meters in size, this space is decorated with murals of the Four Heavenly Kings and pictures of reincarnation.
- Sutra Hall: Adjacent to the porch, the Sutra Hall features a door on the east side and measures 17.8 meters in width and 15.4 meters in depth. It contains several square columns arranged in a grid pattern, supporting the upper floor and forming a patio-style shed.
- Buddhist Hall: Located behind the Sutra Hall, it occupies about 50 square meters. The hall’s primary focus is the Buddhist altar on the west wall, which enshrines statues of the third generation of Buddhas. The main statue, 10 meters tall and seated in a lotus position on a lotus platform, is surrounded by intricate sculptures of various gods, monsters, curly grass, cloud patterns, and rocs.
Dharma Protector Temple: Situated to the north of the Buddhist Hall, the Dharma Protector Temple covers an area of approximately 10 square meters. This temple primarily houses the statue of Bandan Lhamo and ritual instruments like dharma trumpets and shotguns, emphasizing its role in the temple’s spiritual practices.
Conclusion
Kading Temple, with its unique architectural features and rich religious heritage, stands as a significant symbol of Tibetan Buddhism’s evolution and spiritual depth. From its intricate murals to the carefully structured halls, the temple not only serves as a place of worship and contemplation but also as a guardian of the region’s cultural and historical legacy.
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