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Buddhism and Monasteries in Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur

• In the districts of Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur, the influence of Buddhism is deeply ingrained. Most of the Buddhist sculptures in these areas are housed within monasteries, reflecting the region's spiritual heritage.
• The architecture of these monasteries differs significantly from the typical hill architecture found in other parts of Himachal Pradesh. The structures here feature flat roofs, inward-sloping walls, and are made from sun-dried bricks or simple stones, as opposed to timber-bonded stones seen elsewhere.
• There are three primary types of monasteries in these regions:
  • Tak-Phu: Monasteries situated in caves.
  • Gompa: Representing a solitary place, often isolated.
  • La-Khang (also called Da-Khang or Tsugla-Khang): Temples located near villages, often serving as academies or meeting halls.
• The monasteries in Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur feature distinct differences from those in Rewalsar. While the former tend to have flat roofs, the latter follow the pagoda style with tiered roofs. However, both types have richly decorated interiors, with frescoes depicting scenes from Lamaistic lore in the traditional Tibetan style.
• Thankas, traditional painted scrolls, often hang from the walls, and the chapel is typically located at the center. It is said that Padma Sambhava, along with two scholars from Nalanda, introduced the Vajrayana order of Buddhism to Tibet. His footprints can still be seen on a rock at the Nako Monastery.
• The main images found in these monasteries include Buddha, Padma Sambhava, Avalokiteshwara, Vajrapani, and Manjushri, the latter three serving as family protectors.

Famous Temples and Monasteries

1. Mrikula Devi Temple:

   • Located 54 km from Keylong in Udaipur, which was historically called Moorgul or Mrikul.
   • Believed to be designed by the same architect who built the Hidimba Temple in Manali.
   • Constructed by Ajay Verman of Chamba.

2. Triloknath Temple:

   • Situated 5 km from Udaipur in Tunde, Lahaul-Spiti.
   • Represents Kashmir-Kannauj art from the period of Raja Lalitaditya of Kashmir (725-757 AD).
   • Thought to have initially been a Shiva temple, later transformed into a Buddhist shrine.

3. Guru Ghantal Gompa:

   • Located 4 km above the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers, in Tupchiling.
   • Features a marble head sculpture of Avalokiteshwara from the 8th century AD, consecrated by Guru Padmasambhava.
   • Known as Guru Ghantal due to the presence of one of the 84 Buddhist Sidhas who meditated there.
   • Fully made of wood, with an idol dedicated to Bajreshwari Devi.

4. Gemur Monastery:

   • Houses a beautiful sculpture of Marichi Vajravarahi from the 11th-12th century.
   • Located 18 km from Keylong in Bhaga Valley, the sculpture showcases Kashmiri style artistry.

5. Sashur Gompa:

   • Built in the 7th century by Deva Gyatso in Lahaul.
   • Associated with the Red Hat sect of Buddhism.
   • Features a 15-foot tankha and a wall painting depicting the 84 Sidhas of Buddhism.
6. Rewalsar Monastery (continued):
   • Rewalsar is one of the most significant and sacred locations for Buddhists in Himachal Pradesh, renowned for its spiritual significance and connection to Guru Padmasambhava, who is said to have departed from here to spread Buddhism in Tibet. 
   • The site is home to a pagoda-style monastery on the edge of the serene Rewalsar Lake, a place of pilgrimage for both Buddhists and Hindus. 
   • The surrounding area is marked by prayer flags, small shrines, and an aura of tranquility that makes it a favored destination for spiritual seekers and tourists alike.

Other Monasteries and Sacred Places in Himachal Pradesh

• Kungri Monastery: Located in the Pin Valley, 10 kilometers from Attargo, this monastery serves the population of the Pin Valley. The Kungri Monastery is known for its association with the Nyingmapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism and plays an essential role in preserving the cultural and religious traditions of the local people. Its historical and religious importance draws both pilgrims and travelers.
• Tashigang Monastery: To visit the Tashigang Monastery, travelers must take a diversion from Khab to Namgya, followed by a trek to reach the Gompa. This trek, though challenging, leads to a spiritually significant monastery that is part of the cultural fabric of the region.
• Tilasangh Monastery: A relatively short 1-kilometer trek from Ka, this monastery is located 12 kilometers before reaching Yangthang. It is one of the many sacred sites in the region and continues to serve as a place of worship and meditation for the local Buddhist community.

Other Prominent Monasteries

Nako Monastery: Situated in the high-altitude village of Nako in Kinnaur, this monastery is known for the legendary footprints of Guru Padmasambhava that are enshrined here. Located near a pristine lake, Nako is a destination revered for both its natural beauty and spiritual significance.

Conclusion

Himachal Pradesh, especially regions like Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur, is dotted with Buddhist monasteries that reflect a deep cultural and religious connection to Tibetan Buddhism. These monasteries not only serve as places of worship but also as centers of learning, preserving ancient texts, art, and traditions. Each monastery has its own unique history, architecture, and spiritual importance, making them vital to understanding the religious and cultural heritage of the Himalayan region.